[247] In Hertfordshire, now called Cheshunt.
[248] [Old copies, dogs—simple, and in the next line, curs eat.]
[249] [Old copies, or—sure.]
[250] At Cheshunt there was a Benedictine nunnery dedicated to the Virgin Mary. It was founded before the year 1183, and augmented with lands and tenements of the Canons of Cathale, in the twenty-fourth year of King Henry the Third; but yet upon the general dissolution it was valued only at £14, 1s. per annum. See "England Illustrated," 1764, i. 318.
[251] The departure of Sir Arthur and his wife is not mentioned in the old copies.—Collier.
[252] The line was spoilt by the omission of the repetition of the word good by Mr Reed.—Collier.
[253] This cant phrase is common in the old plays. Mr Tollet supposes it taken from the Italian via, and to be used on occasions to quicken or pluck up courage. See note to the "Merry Wives of Windsor," act ii. sc. 2. It here [and elsewhere] signifies away! So, in "Edward the Third," act ii. sc. 2—
"Then via for the spacious bounds of France."
In Jonson's "Devil is an Ass," act ii. sc. 1—
"Let her go:
Via, pecunia."