Marlowe. And all impostors with him!
The Man. But what if it were a true ghost? Have a heart! You’ll be one yourself some day, and watch old friends run away from you when you come to haunt them in pure good fellowship.
Landlord [at the door]. Sir, he says indeed he knows you. His business is private.
Marlowe. Well, let him come in. No, friends, sit still! If he’s the death he pretends we’ll face him together as the song teaches.
[Singing.] When Death at last arrives, I’ll greet him with a chuckle, I’ll ask him how he thrives And press his bony knuckle, With—Ho, boy! Hey, boy! Come this way, boy! Who’ll have a drink with me? Mary’s Voice [on the stairs]. Hey, Sir! Ho, Sir! No, no, no, Sir! Why should he drink with thee? All Together. Hey, Death! Ho, Death! Let me go, Death! I’ll never drink with thee!
Mary stands in the doorway. She is dressed as a boy, with cloak, riding boots, and slouch cap.
Mary [singing]. If Love should pass me by, I’ll follow till I find him, And when I hear him sigh, I’ll tear the veils that blind him. Up, man! Dance, man! Take your chance, man! Who’ll get a kiss from me? All Together. Hey, Love! Ho, Love! None shall know, Love! Keep but a kiss for me! [They clap.]
The Man [to Marlowe]. Ghost of a nightingale! D’you know him?
Marlowe. I think I do. [To Mary, aside] What April freak is this?