The Duchess of Malfi by John Webster
page 4 of 172 (02%)
page 4 of 172 (02%)
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Is like a common fountain, whence should flow
Pure silver drops in general, but if 't chance Some curs'd example poison 't near the head, Death and diseases through the whole land spread. And what is 't makes this blessed government But a most provident council, who dare freely Inform him the corruption of the times? Though some o' the court hold it presumption To instruct princes what they ought to do, It is a noble duty to inform them What they ought to foresee.<2>--Here comes Bosola, The only court-gall; yet I observe his railing Is not for simple love of piety: Indeed, he rails at those things which he wants; Would be as lecherous, covetous, or proud, Bloody, or envious, as any man, If he had means to be so.--Here's the cardinal. [Enter CARDINAL and BOSOLA] BOSOLA. I do haunt you still. CARDINAL. So. BOSOLA. I have done you better service than to be slighted thus. Miserable age, where only the reward of doing well is the doing of it! CARDINAL. You enforce your merit too much. |
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