And (if their need be such) as much in coin
As shall, for three days more, defray their further travel:
This unto heaven—be you testator, good my liege,
And witness with me, noble gentlemen—
Most free and faithfully I dedicate.
King. An honourable work, and deserves large memory.
Mont. 'Tis a good example, 'tis pity 'tis no better followed.
Arun. But say, sir: now in some future age,
Perhaps some two or three hundred year behind us,
This place, intended for a use so charitable,
Should be unhallow'd again by villanous inhabitants,
Say whores instead of Christians, and
Your hospital tenements turn'd into stews,
Would not this grieve you in your grave?[105]
Brew. If my grave were capable of grief, sure it would, sir.
King. Prythee, be a false prophet.
Arun. I will, if I can, my lord.
King. Let now our heralds in the streets proclaim
The title and [the] office of this hospital;
Make known to all distressed travellers,
That we'll accept his charitable house;
This Domus Dei shall be their free sojourn,
As is proposed.
Enter on the one side Stephen's Wife; on the other Old Foster, Mistress Foster, Jane, Robert, and Keeper. All kneel.
King. What are these petitioners?