Jac. Fabricio, we two have been Souldiers
Above these fourteen years, yet o' my Conscience,
All we have seen, compar'd to his experience
Has been but cudgel-play, or Cock-fighting.
By all the faith I have in Arms, I reverence
The very poverty of this brave fellow;
Which were enough it self, and his to strengthen
The weakest town against half Christendom.
I was never so asham'd of service
In all my life before, now I consider
What I have done; and yet the Rogues would swear
I was a valiant fellow; I do find
The greatest danger I have brought my life through,
Now I have heard this worthy, was no more
Than stealing of a May-pole, or at worst,
Fighting at single Billet with a Barge-man.
Fab. I do believe him, Jacomo.
Jac. Believe him?
I have no faith within me, if I do not.
Fath. I see they are Souldiers;
And if we may judge by affections,
Brave and deserving men; how they are stir'd
But with a meer relation of what may be?
Since I have won belief, and am not known,
Forgive me, Honour, I'll make use of thee.
Fab. Sir, would I were a man, or great, or able
To look with liberal eyes upon your vertue.
Jac. Let's give him all we have, and leave off prating.
Here, Souldier, there's even five months pay, be merry,
And get thee handsom Cloaths.
Fab. What mean you, Jacomo?
Jac. Ye are a fool,
The very story's worth a hundred pound.
Give him more money.
Fath. Gentlemen, I know not
How I am able to deserve this blessing;
But if I live to see fair days again,
Something I'll do in honour of your goodness,
That shall shew thankfulness, if not desert.
Fab. If you please, Sir, till we procure ye place,
To eat with us, or wear such honest Garments
As our poor means can reach to, you shall be
A welcome man; to say more, were to feed ye
Only with words; we honour what y'have been,
For we are Souldiers, though not near the worth
You spake of lately.