Page:A Series of Plays on the Passions Volume 3.pdf/146

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Ost. Let it be so; you have arranged it well. Produce the lots.

Prior. Now, brave Soldiers, let four from your body advance. (Ost. points to four men, who advance from the ranks.)

Ost. And two from the officers, my Lord?

Prior. Even so, noble Count.

1st Sold. (speaking to his comrades as the others are drawing.) This is strange mummery i' faith! but it would have been no joke, I suppose, to have offended St. Maurice.

Prior. (after examining the lots.) Soldiers, ye are free; it is your Officers who are taken.

1st Sold. (as before) Ha! the vision is dainty it seems; it is not vulgar blood like ours, that will serve to stain the ends of his holy lash.

Prior. Stand not on order; let him who is nearest put in his hand first.

1st Sold. (aside to the others as the Officers are drawing) Now by these arms! I would give a month's