Wal. Ay, that’s the question!
Helen. Is he soldier or
Civilian? lord or gentleman? He’s rich,
If that’s his chariot! Where is his estate?
What brings it in? Six thousand pounds a year?
Twelve thousand, may be! Is he bachelor,
Or husband? Bachelor I’m sure he is
Comes he not hither wooing, Master Walter?
Nay, prithee, answer me!
Wal. Who says thy sex
Are curious? That they’re patient, I’ll be sworn;
And reasonable—very reasonable—
To look for twenty answers in a breath!
Come, thou shalt be enlightened—but propound
Thy questions one by one! Thou’rt far too apt
A scholar! My ability to teach
Will ne’er keep pace, I fear, with thine to learn.
[They go out.]
SCENE III.—An Apartment in the House.
[Enter Julia, followed by Clifford.]
Julia. No more! I pray you, sir, no more!
Clif. I love you!
Julia. You mock me, sir!
Clif. Then is there no such thing
On earth as reverence; honour filial, the fear
Of kings, the awe of supreme heaven itself,
Are only shows and sounds that stand for nothing.
I love you!