LOVEL
I have known some exiles thus
To linger out the term of the law's indulgence,
To the hazard of being known.
JOHN
You may suppose sometimes
They use the neighb'ring Sherwood for their sport,
Their exercise and freer recreation.—
I see you smile. Pray now, be careful.
LOVEL
I am no babbler, sir; you need not fear me.
JOHN
But some men have been known to talk in their sleep,
And tell fine tales that way.
LOVEL
I have heard so much. But, to say truth, I mostly sleep alone.
JOHN
Or drink, sir? do you never drink too freely?
Some men will drink, and tell you all their secrets.
LOVEL
Why do you question me, who know my habits?
JOHN
I think you are no sot,
No tavern-troubler, worshipper of the grape;
But all men drink sometimes,
And veriest saints at festivals relax,
The marriage of a friend, or a wife's birth-day.
LOVEL
How much, sir, may a man with safety drink? (Smiling.)
JOHN
Sir, three half pints a day is reasonable;
I care not if you never exceed that quantity.