Shakespeare [to the boy]. You’re dreaming—
Boy. No, sir, there was your ring on her finger—
Shakespeare. Be still! Take this and forget your dreams! [He gives him money.] Henslowe, farewell! If you’ve lied to me I’ll pay you for it, and if you’ve spoken truth to me I’ll pay you for it no less.
Henslowe. Pay? I want no pay. I want the play that the Queen ordered, and will have in the end, mark that! You have not yet served the Queen.
Shakespeare. Boy! Hugh!
Boy. Sir?
Shakespeare. Which way did she ride?
Boy. Am I asleep or awake, sir?
Shakespeare. Which way did she ride?
Boy. Across the bridge, sir, as I dreamt it, along the Deptford road.