Gordon. Unfortunate Lady!
Butler. You have heard what Illo
Reporteth, that the Swedes are conquerors,
And marching hitherward.
Gordon. Too well I heard it. 5
Butler. They are twelve regiments strong, and there are five
Close by us to protect the Duke. We have
Only my single regiment; and the garrison
Is not two hundred strong.
Gordon. 'Tis even so.
Butler. It is not possible with such small force 10
To hold in custody a man like him.
Gordon. I grant it.
Butler. Soon the numbers would disarm us.
And liberate him.
Gordon. It were to be feared.
Butler (after a pause). Know, I am warranty for the event;
With my head have I pledged myself for his, [15]
Must make my word good, cost it what it will,
And if alive we cannot hold him prisoner,
Why—death makes all things certain!