Robert Browning

A Blot in the 'Scutcheon Robert Browning

Book Excerpt: ...le on which are flagons, etc. FIRST RETAINER. Ay, do! push, friends, and then you'll push down me! --What for? Does any hear a runner's footOr a steed's trample or a coach-wheel's cry?Is the Earl come or his least poursuivant?But there's no breeding in a man of youSave Gerard yonder: here's a half-place yet, Old Gerard!GERARD. Save your courtesies, my friend. Here is my place. SECOND RETAINER. Now, Gerard, out with it!What makes you sullen, this of all the daysI' the year? To-day that young rich bountifulHandsome Earl Mertoun, whom alone they matchWith our Lord Tresham through the country-side, Is coming here in utmost braveryTo ask our master's sister's hand?GERARD. What then?SECOND RETAINER. What then? Why, you, she speaks to, if she meets Your worship, smiles on as you hold apartThe boughs to let her through her forest walks, You, always favourite for your no-deserts, You'