LAFEW.
A shrewd knave, and an unhappy.
COUNTESS.
So he is. My lord that’s gone made himself much sport out of him; by his authority he remains here, which he thinks is a patent for his sauciness; and indeed he has no pace, but runs where he will.
LAFEW.
I like him well; ’tis not amiss. And I was about to tell you, since I heard of the good lady’s death, and that my lord your son was upon his return home, I moved the king my master to speak in the behalf of my daughter; which, in the minority of them both, his majesty out of a self-gracious remembrance did first propose. His highness hath promis’d me to do it; and, to stop up the displeasure he hath conceived against your son, there is no fitter matter. How does your ladyship like it?
COUNTESS.
With very much content, my lord, and I wish it happily effected.
LAFEW.
His highness comes post from Marseilles, of as able body as when he number’d thirty; he will be here tomorrow, or I am deceived by him that in such intelligence hath seldom fail’d.
COUNTESS.
It rejoices me that I hope I shall see him ere I die. I have letters that my son will be here tonight. I shall beseech your lordship to remain with me till they meet together.
LAFEW.
Madam, I was thinking with what manners I might safely be admitted.
COUNTESS.
You need but plead your honourable privilege.
LAFEW.
Lady, of that I have made a bold charter; but, I thank my God, it holds yet.
Enter Clown.