ACTUS QUINTI, SCENA TERTIA.
Misericordia. Veritas. Respublica.
Miser. I daresay Respublica thinketh the time long.
Ver. Who can blame her, having endured so much wrong?
But as meat and drink, and other bodily food
Is never found to be so pleasant, nor so good,
As when fretting hunger and thirst hath pinched afore;
And as health after sickness is sweeter evermore,
So, after decay and adversity overcome,
Wealth and prosperity shall be double welcome.
Miser. How now, Respublica? have I not been long hence?
Resp. Come ye first or last, ye bless me with your presence.
Miser. As I was commanded, I bring you Verity,
To help you, your people, and their posterity.
Ver. Dear jewel Respublica! I do you embrace.
Resp. I thank your goodness, and submit me to your grace.
Miser. Embrace Verity for ever, Respublica,
And cleave fast to her!