Ans. Well then, be brief, but if you’re thus unruly,
I’ll have you locked up fast.
Pio. Come, to their fortunes.
Bell. Let me see, one, two, three, and four. I’ll begin with the little friar[224] first. Here’s a fine hand, indeed! I never saw friar have such a dainty hand: here’s a hand for a lady! Here’s your fortune:—
You love a friar better than a nun;
Yet long you’ll love no friar, nor no friar’s son.
Bow a little, the line of life is out, yet I’m afraid,
For all you’re holy, you’ll not die a maid.
God give you joy!
Now to you, Friar Tuck.
Mat. God send me good luck!
Bell. You love one, and one loves you:
You’re a false knave, and she’s a Jew,
Here is a dial that false ever goes—
Mat. O your wit drops!
Bell. Troth, so does your nose—
Nay lets shake hands with you too; pray open, here’s a fine hand!
Ho friar, ho! God be here,
So he had need: you’ll keep good cheer,
Here’s a free table,[225] but a frozen breast,
For you’ll starve those that love you best;
Yet you have good fortune, for if I’m no liar,
Then you are no friar, nor you, nor you no friar,
Haha, haha! [Discovers them.
Duke. Are holy habits cloaks for villany?
Draw all your weapons!