Page:The First Part of the True and Honorable Historie of the Life of Sir John Old-castle (1600).pdf/54

 That is a thiefe, a gamster, and what not, Let him be hang'd vp for example sake.

sir IohnNot so my gracious soueraigne, I confesse I am a frayle man, flesh and bloud as other are: but set my imperfecti∣ons aside, by this light ye haue not a taller man, nor a truer sub∣iect to the Crowne and State, than sir Iohn of VVrootham.

Har.Wil a true subiect robbe his King?

sir IohnAlas twas ignorance and want, my gracious liege.

Har.Twas want of grace: why, you should be as salt To season others with good document, Your liues as lampes to giue the people light, As shepheards, not as wolues to spoile the flock, Go hang hm Butler.

But.Didst thou not rob me?

sir IohnI must confesse I saw some of your gold, but my dread Lord, I am in no humor for death, therfore saue my life, God will that sinners liue; do not you cause me die, once in their liues the best may goe astray, and if the world say true, your selfe (my liege) haue bin a thiefe.

Har.I confesse I haue, But I repent and haue reclaimd my selfe.

sir IohnSo will I do if you will giue me time.

Har.Wilt thou? my lords, will you be his suerties?

Hunt.That when he robs againe, he shall be hang'd.

sir IohnI aske no more.

Har.And we will grant thee that, Liue and repent, and proue an honest man, Which when I heare, and safe returne from France, Ile giue thee liuing, till when take thy gold, But spend it better then at cards or wine, For better vertues fit that coate of thine.

sir Iohn Viuat Rex & currat lex, my liege, if ye haue cause of battell, ye shal see sir Iohn of Wrootham bestirre himselfe in your quarrel.

Har.