At the Mermaid. Ben Jonson is standing at the end of the room, L., Fletcher and Lord Lacy near him. Marston and Dekker are with Chapman in the middle. Chettle is seated, R., facing Jonson. Shakespeare enters behind Chettle, door R.
Jonson:
[Stretching.] It’s good to be free—free to feast, and not feed like a dog—free! That prison was killing me. [Calling out as Shakespeare enters.] Ho, Will! here’s your chair, yawning till you come.
Chettle:
Here’s one with jaws as thirsty-wide, my lad, and dry to boot. Will you fill ’em?
Shakespeare:
[Passing Chettle with a smile.] The stranger first, Chettle, then the drink. I’ve not seen Ben for months and months. [Goes to Jonson and takes both his hands.]
Ben Jonson:
[Pushing a chair towards Shakespeare.] And now little poet, what will you drink? Canary or sack. [Claps his hands.] Here, Drawer!
Shakespeare: