Osw. This is the cup by angels visited
In night's deep hours. Herein they dropped the peace
Of Heaven, which Charilus and I shall take
Into our hearts. I know in truth it holds
Sweet peace for me—the peace that thirty years
My veins have ached for. Charilus, what say you?
Char. My heart can hold no more of peace than now
Doth fill it, but I drink with you, my lord.
[Drinks from goblet which Oswald has filled from chalice, and Oswald drinks from goblet filled by Charilus]
Osw. [Dropping his glass] Is peace a fire?
I' faith, this kindles me!
Thou smileless priest, take off the Virgin's cup!
You think it needs another blessing, sir,
Since my bold hand has touched it? Out with you!
[Exit priest with chalice]
That pinch-face has seen hell and fasts to keep
The ghost down. I'll not fast. Set to, my friends.
Fill up your bowls, for I've a health for you.
We drink to Berenice, bride to be
Of Bertrand, prince of Suli and my son!
A Lord. [As all lift their glasses]
We pledge the bride of Bertrand—Berenice!
Ber. Drink not, my lords, till you have changed that name
To Ardia, daughter of our noble guest,
Lord Charilus!
Fred. [Rising] If this be sport, Earl Oswald,
A world of groans shall pay for 't!
Bere. [In mock swoon] Oh.... I faint....
[Her ladies help her]
Osw. You bawling ass! You thousand times a fool!