Host. But to speak seriously, good Will, what bringeth thee here? Who is thy master! Can I assist thee in anything?
Will. Well, I pity thee, and will say no more. My master is young Arthur Walton. He hath returned. He gave up the fortune to his brother Basil.
Host. I thought he was settled abroad.
Will. No! no! He is here, and now he wanteth assistance from his brother; for we are in some present straits, and this Basil will have nought to say to him. What I shall want of thee is information of the family; and mayhap thy daughter will have to see Mistress Florence for us with a message.
[Enter TAPSTER and two or three Roundhead Soldiers, L.]
Tap. Master, master! here be soldiers quartered on us.
Will. The Philistines be upon thee!
Host. O Lord!——be praised. See directly and water the double ale—Tell my daughter to lock up the Trinidado tobaccos—Haste!
[Enter IRETON, HARRISON, and Soldiers, L.U.E.]
Ire. [Reading Papers.] Give us to drink, good measure; for the flesh is thirsty. That we have shall be paid. Who is that fellow [points to William] with his sword drawn?