Then had he died and our love continued.

Alice. Why, so it shall, Mosbie, albeit he live.

Mosbie. It is unpossible, for I have sworn 430

430

Never hereafter to solicit thee,

Or, whilst he lives, once more importune thee.

Alice. Thou shalt not need, I will importune thee.

What? shall an oath make thee forsake my love?

As if I have not sworn as much myself

And given my hand unto him in the church!

Tush, Mosbie; oaths are words, and words is wind,

And wind is mutable: then, I conclude,

’Tis childishness to stand upon an oath.

Mosbie. Well proved, Mistress Alice; yet by your leave 440

440

I’ll keep mine unbroken whilst he lives.

[19]

Alice. Ay, do, and spare not, his time is but short;

For if thou beest as resolute as I,

We’ll have him murdered as he walks the streets.

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