Oh! they are not so dangerous as they pretend to be; however
courageous love may have made Eraste, he will not have so easy a bargain
with us.
LA RA. If you should have any need for it, my arm is entirely at your
service. You know me to be at all times staunch.
[Footnote: It is thought the introduction of Mons. de la Rapiere
contains an allusion to the poor noblemen of Languedoc, who formerly
made a kind of living by being seconds at duels, and whom the Prince de
Conti compelled to obey the edicts of Louis XIV. against duelling.
_The Love-tiff_ was first played in 1656 at Beziers, where the
States of Languedoc were assembled.]
VAL. I am much obliged to you, M. de la Rapiere.
LA RA. I have likewise two friends I can procure, who will draw against
all comers, and upon whom you may safely rely.
MASC. Accept their services, sir.
VAL. You are too kind.
LA RA. Little Giles might also have assisted us, if a sad accident had
not taken him from us. Oh, sir, it is a great pity! He was such a handy
fellow, too! You know the trick justice played him; he died like a hero;
when the executioner broke him on the wheel, he made his exit without
uttering a word.
VAL. M. de la Rapiere, such a man ought to be lamented, but, as for your
escort, I thank you, I want them not.
Pages:
60
61
62
63
64
65
66
67
68
69
70
71
72
73
74
75
76
77
78
79
80
81
82
83
84