Servant. A great many people, sir; but none so importunate to be admitted as the Welsh gentleman, who offers to act the character of Hamlet for his own pleasure.
Hum. Plague on him, whose pleasure will it be besides?
Sev. Oh, all the world will like him; let us admit him by all means.
Hum. He, in his vernacular tone, will disparage a scene forever by repeating it; but do as you will.
Sev. Pray desire the gentleman to walk in: pray, gentlemen, keep your countenance, for he is no fool; or if he is, he is a valiant one, and hath a great estate half-way up the atmosphere.
Enter Mr. Gwillyn.
[They all rise from their seats.]
Sir, we understand the high obligation you lay upon us (pray sit down, sir) in condescending to tread the stage in the character of the Prince of Denmark; in which, sir, you are so far right, that he was a prince of a very ancient family, and not unworthy a gentleman of your character to represent.
Gwil. I have a respect for him, both for his plutt and his prains, and think I could do him justice.
Sev. There is no doubt of it, good sir; and if you please to pronounce the sentence, "To be and not to be," you'll mightily raise these gentlemen's expectations and gratitude to you for the favour you intend them.