Page:The Tragedy of the Duchesse of Malfy (1623).pdf/7

Fleuron from first edition of 'The Tragedy of the Duchesse of Malfy' by John Webster (1623)

Actus Primus. Scena Prima.

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Antonio, and Delio, Bosola, Cardmall.

Delio.

OU are wel-come to your Country (deere Antonio}
You have bin long in France, and you returne
A very formall French-man, in your habit.
How doe you like the French Court?

Ant.
I admire it,
In seeking to reduce both State, and People
To a fix'd Order, there juditious King
Begins at home: Quits first his Royall Pallace
Of flattring Sicophants of dissolute,
And infamous persons which he sweetely termes
His Masters Master-peece (the worke of Heaven)
Considring duely, that a Princes Court
Is like a common Fountaine, whence should flow,
Pure silver-droppes ingenerall: But if 't chance
Some curs'd example poyson't neere the head,
"Death, and diseases through the whole land spread.
And what is't makes this blessed government,
But a most provident Councell, who dare freely
Informe him, the corruption of the times?

Though