Comedies, Histories, Tragedies and Poems Volume 3

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1858 Excerpt: ... all but the Prince and PE'1'o. There is no stage-direction here in the 4tos, and the folio has only "Exit." The modern editors have retained Poins on the stage with the Prince, and it is to be admitted that Poins has generally been his companion; but in this instance it is quite clear that Peto remains; for in the 4to. and folio editions, after the Sheriff and Carrier have retired, the conversation respecting the contents of Falstafi"s pockets is entirely between the Prince and Peto, to whom the Prince afterwards wishes good morrow by name, nothing being said about Poins. We therefore without scruple restore the old reading. Now, master sheriff, what's your will with me? Sher. First, pardon me, my lord. A hue and cry Hath follow'd certain men unto this house. P. Hen. Vhat men? Sher. One of them is well known, my gracious lord; A gross fat man. Car. As fat as butter. P. Hen. The man, I do assure you, is not here, For I myself at this time have employ'd him. And, sheriff, I will engage my word to thee, That I will, by to-morrow dinner-time, Send him to answer thee, or any man, For any thing he shall be charg'd withal: And so, let me entreat you, leave the house. Sher. I will, my lord. There are two gentlemen Have in this robbery lost three hundred marks. P. Hen. It may be so: if he have robb'd these men, He shall be answerable; and so, farewell. Sher. Good night, my noble lord. P. Hen. I think it is good morrow, is it not? Sher. Indeed, my lord, I think it be two o'clock. Eneunt Sherif and Carrier. P. Hen. This oily rascal is known as well as Paul's. Go, call him forth. Peto. Falstaff!--fast asleep behind the arras, and snorting like a horse. P. Hen. Hark, how hard he fetches breath. Search his...