And has been long established in these walls
To carry liquor for the prisoners.
But such a cursed, spite-envenom'd toad!
HARDIBRAND.
Of royal line; born to command, and dignified
By sufferings and dangers past, which makes
The meanest man ennobled: yet behold him;
(Pointing off the stage.)
How by the wall he sidelong straddles on
With his base tankard!—O, the sneaking varlet!
It makes me weep to hear his piteous tale,
Yet my blood boils to run and cudgel him.
But let us on our way.
KEEPER.
And wish to be conducted thro' the prison.
It is an ancient building of great strength,
And many strangers visit it.
HARDIBRAND.
Have you at present many criminals
Within these walls?
KEEPER.
Though not what it has been in better days.
