Egmont
         Others. Something more out of the book!       

         Soapboiler. I'll knock his teeth down his throat if he says another word.       

         People. We'll see who dares to lay hands upon him. Tell us about our privileges! Have we any more privileges?       

         Vansen. Many, very good and very wholesome ones too. Thus it stands: The sovereign shall neither benefit the clergy, nor increase their number, without the consent of the nobles and of the states. Mark that! Nor shall he alter the constitution of the country.       

         Soest. Stands it so?       

         Vansen. I'll show it you, as it was written down two or three centuries ago.       

         A Citizen. And we tolerate the new bishops? The nobles must protect us, we will make a row else!       

         Others. And we suffer ourselves to be intimidated by the Inquisition?       

         Vansen. It is your own fault.       

         People. We have Egmont! We have Orange! They will protect our interests.       

         Vansen. Your brothers in Flanders are beginning the good work.       

         Soapboiler. Dog! (Strikes him.)       

         (Others oppose the Soapboiler, and exclaim,) Are you also a Spaniard?       

         Another. What! This honourable man?       

         Another. This learned man?       

         (They attack the Soapboiler.)       

         Carpenter. For heaven's sake, peace!       

         (Others mingle in the fray.)       


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