SHAKESPEAR. _[swelling with intolerant importance]_ Name not that
inordinate man in the same breath with Stratford's worthiest alderman.
John Shakespear wedded but once: Harry Tudor was married six times.
You should blush to utter his name.

THE DARK LADY. | Will: for pity's sake-- | _crying out
| | together_
ELIZABETH. | Insolent dog-- |

SHAKESPEAR. _[cutting them short]_ How know you that King Harry was
indeed your father?

ELIZABETH. | Zounds! Now by--
| _[she stops to grind her teeth with rage]._
|
THE DARK LADY. | She will have me whipped through
| the streets. Oh God! Oh God!

SHAKESPEAR. Learn to know yourself better, madam. I am an honest
gentleman of unquestioned parentage, and have already sent in my
demand for the coat-of-arms that is lawfully mine. Can you say as
much for yourself?

ELIZABETH. _[almost beside herself]_ Another word; and I begin with
mine own hands the work the hangman shall finish.

SHAKESPEAR. You are no true Tudor: this baggage here has as good a
right to your royal seat as you. What maintains you on the throne of
England? Is it your renowned wit? your wisdom that sets at naught the