Moon. Our Spanish friend here is right, it would freight a fleet.
John Drake. It would sink ours.
Oxenham. What a thundering shame! to send us out on such an expedition with two or three cockle shells, when with proper outfit and English hearts to back us, we could enrich the nation. But it is always the way with our government. They care more for her enemies than for England! (He walks aside with his hands up in great indignation).
John Drake. What would please you in the way of Government, Jack?
Oxenham (with great energy). To get up a fleet, man it with true British tars, rovers and volunteers I mean; give the command to Hawkins or Drake, then let Philip see how long his galleons could keep the sea, (exultingly). We would soon transfer the Indies with all their wealth to the crown of England.
Moon. Suppose Jack you were in authority, as King of England. What then?
Oxenham. By all the stars in heaven I would begin with stringing to the yards arm, every Jack in office. But come let us go ahead with this little job. First, where’s our transport? Take a guard Moon, scour the town for horses, mules—everything that can carry. (Exit Moon and others with him). Now men, with a will. Muster your gangs. (Pointing to the great silver pile). Hurrah! upon these silver bars! (They rush about with bars of gold and silver, preparing to load them.)
John Drake. Avast there! Serve out the wine now. I’m sure we are all ready for it. Where’s Bill Saunders? He’s the man for that. (Laughter and cheers).
All. Hurrah for the wine! Hurrah for Drake! Hurrah for the Queen!
Oxenham (looking out). Oh! I see Moon coming with a crowd of horses, mules and people. In the meantime, Saunders, you may as well enliven us with a stave—One of your moralities you know, just to let these Spaniards see how little we care for them.