Ped. Which is the way, I wonder? What with fright and weariness, I must rest awhile. Well, this is Portugal, where to be sure a poor Spanish pimp may hope to escape ferocious honour. That I should lose a post where others make their thousands at my first function! But who are these? Fine folks too! Pray Heaven they be in want of an officer.
Adm. A horse will soon carry you to the villa. Hark you, sir! (To Pedro.)
Ped. My lord!
Adm. Who are you?
Ped. Nay, how should I know?
Adm. But are you one of my people?
Ped. Yes, if you like it. As said Lord Somebody, who neither served king, man, or God, but who entering the palace one day at supper-time, and seeing all the chamberlains at work without their coats, whips off his, and begins carrying up dishes. Suddenly in comes the major-domo, who perceiving a stranger, asks if he be sworn of the service. ‘Not yet,’ says he, ‘but if swearing is all that’s wanted, I’ll swear to what you please.’ So ’tis with me. Make me your servant, and I’ll swear and forswear anything.
Adm. You are liberal of your humour.
Ped. ’Tis all I have to be liberal of; and it would not be right to spare that.
Gil (within). Hold on, hold on!