Get. Thanks, my good people:
Stand off, and know your duties: as I take it
You are the labouring people of this village,
And you that keep the sheep. Stand farther off yet,
And mingle not with my authoritie,
I am too mighty for your companie.
3 Shep. We know it Sir; and we desire your worship
To reckon us amongst your humble servants,
And that our Country Sports, Sir,—
Get. For your Sports, Sir,
They may be seen, when I shall think convenient,
When out of my discretion, I shall view 'em,
And hold 'em fit for licence. Ye look upon me,
And look upon me seriously, as ye knew me:
'Tis true, I have been a Rascal, as you are,
A fellow of no mention, nor no mark,
Just such another piece of durt, so fashion'd:
But Time, that purifies all things of merit,
Has set another stamp. Come nearer now,
And be not fearfull; I take off my austeritie:
And know me for the great and mighty Steward
Under this man of honour: know ye for my vassals,
And at my pleasure I can dispeople ye,
Can blow you and your cattel out o'th' Country:
But fear me, and have favour. Come, go along with me,
And I will hear your Songs, and perhaps like 'em.
3 Shep. I hope you will, Sir.
Geta. 'Tis not a thing impossible,
Perhaps I'le sing my self, the more to grace ye,
And if I like your women.
3 Shep. We'l have the best, Sir,
Handsom young Girls.
Geta. The handsomer, the better.
Enter Delphia.
'May bring your wives too, 'twill be all one charge to ye;
For I must know your families.
Del. 'Tis well said,
'Tis well said, honest friends; I know ye are hatching
Some pleasurable sports for your great Landlord:
Fill him with joy, and win him a friend to ye,
And make this little Grange seem a large Empire,
Let out with home-contents: I'le work his favour,
Which daily shall be on ye.