martialists, as, “I will fight with you:” I said not a word, nor made sign during the combat; but that once done—

Pan. He slips over all the fight.

Bes. I call’d him to me; “Cosroes,” said I—

Pan. I will hear no more.

Bes. No, no, I lie.

Bac. I dare be sworn thou dost.

Bes. “Captain,” said I; so ’twas.

Pan. I tell thee, I will hear no further.

Bes. No? Your grace will wish you had.

Pan. I will not wish it. What, is this the lady
My brother writes to me to take?

Bes. An’t please your grace this is she.—Charge, will you come near the princess?

Pan. You are welcome from your country; and this land
Shall show unto you all the kindnesses
That I can make it. What’s your name?

Spa. Thalestris.

Pan. You’re very welcome: You have got a letter
To put you to me, that has power enough
To place mine enemy here; then much more you,
That are so far from being so to me,
That you ne’er saw me.

Bes. Madam, I dare pass my word for her truth.

Spa. My truth?

Pan. Why, captain, do you think I am afraid she’ll steal?

Bes. I cannot tell; servants are slippery; but I dare give my word for her, and for honesty: she came along with me, and many favours she did me by the way; but, by this light, none but what she might do with modesty, to a man of my rank.

Pan. Why, captain, here’s nobody thinks otherwise.

Bes. Nay, if you should, your grace may think your pleasure; but I am sure I brought her from Armenia, and in all that way, if ever I touched any bare of her above her knee, I pray God I may sink where I stand.

Spa. Above my knee?

Bes. No, you know I did not; and if any man will say I did, this sword shall answer. Nay, I’ll defend the reputation of my charge whilst I live. Your grace shall understand, I am secret in these businesses, and know how to defend a lady’s honour.

Spa. I hope your grace knows him so well already, I shall not need to tell you he’s vain and foolish.

Bes. Ay, you may call me what you please, but I’ll defend your good name against the world. And so I take my leave of your grace, and of you, my lord-protector.—
I am likewise glad to see your lordship well.