That made him heir to Narbonne?

Fab. My best lord,

At all times would I fain withhold from you,

Intelligence unwelcome, but most now.

At seasons such as this, a friendly tongue

Should utter words like balm; but what you ask—

Count. I ask, to be inform'd of. Hast thou known me

From childhood, up to man, and canst thou fear

I am so weak of soul, like a thin reed,

To bend and stagger at such puny blast?