[Pg 45]

What justice is there in our suffering so?

King Cole:

This: that not knowing, we should try to know.

The Showman:

Try. A sweet doctrine for a broken heart.

King Cole:

The best (men say) in every manly part.

The Showman:

Is it, by Heaven? I have tried it, I.

I tell you, friend, your justice is a lie;

Your comfort is a lie, your peace a fraud;

Your trust a folly and your cheer a gaud.

I know what men are, having gone these roads.

Poor bankrupt devils, sweating under loads

While others suck their blood and smile and smile.[Pg 46]

[Pg 46]

You be an artist on the roads a while,

You'll know what justice comes with suffering then.

King Cole:

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