Prov. Angelo hath seen them both, and will discover 165 the favour.
Duke. O, death’s a great disguiser; and you may add to it. Shave the head, and [tie] the beard; and say it was the desire of the penitent to be so [bared] before his death: you know the course is common. If any thing fall to you 170 upon this, more than thanks and good fortune, by the Saint whom I profess, I will plead against it with my life.
Prov. Pardon me, good father; it is against my oath.
Duke. Were you sworn to the Duke, or to the Deputy?
Prov. To him, and to his substitutes.
IV. 2
175 Duke. You will think you have made no offence, if the Duke avouch the justice of your dealing?
Prov. But what likelihood is in that?
Duke. Not a resemblance, but a certainty. Yet since I see you fearful, that neither my coat, integrity, nor [persuasion] 180 can with ease attempt you, I will go further than I meant, to pluck all fears out of you. Look you, sir, here is the hand and seal of the Duke: you know the character, I doubt not; and the signet is not strange to you.
Prov. I know them both.
185 Duke. The contents of this is the return of the Duke: you shall anon over-read it at your pleasure; where you shall find, within these two days he will be here. This is a thing [that] Angelo knows not; for he this very day receives letters of strange tenour; perchance of the Duke’s 190 death; perchance entering into some monastery; but, by chance, nothing of what is [writ]. Look, the unfolding star calls up the shepherd. Put not yourself into amazement how these things should be: all difficulties are but easy when they are known. Call your executioner, and off with 195 Barnardine’s head: I will give him a present shrift and advise him for a better place. Yet you are amazed; but this shall absolutely resolve you. Come away; it is almost clear dawn.