The Comedy of Errors
by
William Shakespeare
The Comedy of Errors is a play about two sets of identical twins who were separated at birth. The story begins with Antipholus of Syracuse and his servant, Dromio of Syracuse, arriving in Ephesus, where their twin brothers, Antipholus of Ephesus and Dromio of Ephesus, live. The confusion begins when the townspeople mistake the visitors for their long-lost brothers.
Antipholus of Syracuse soon finds himself in trouble when he is mistaken for his twin and his wife, Adriana, accuses him of being unfaithful. Meanwhile, Dromio of Syracuse is repeatedly beaten by his twin's wife, who thinks he is the lazy servant who refuses to run errands for her.
The situation becomes even more complicated when a goldsmith demands payment from Antipholus of Ephesus for a chain he claims to have ordered. The real buyer was Antipholus of Syracuse, but the goldsmith has no idea that there are two sets of identical twins in Ephesus.
As the misunderstandings pile up, the twins finally meet each other and the truth is revealed. In the end, all is forgiven and the two pairs of twins are reunited.
Act I
Act 1 of The Comedy of Errors begins with Aegeon, a merchant from Syracuse, being sentenced to death in Ephesus because he is from Syracuse, which is currently at war with Ephesus. Aegeon is given a day to find someone to pay the ransom for his release.
Meanwhile, Antipholus of Syracuse and his servant Dromio arrive in Ephesus, which is the home of their identical twin brothers, Antipholus of Ephesus and Dromio of Ephesus. The twins were separated at birth and have never met. The Syracusans are immediately mistaken for their Ephesian counterparts by the locals, who are confused by their identical appearances.
Antipholus of Syracuse becomes enamored with Luciana, the sister of his brother's wife, Adriana. Adriana believes her husband is cheating on her with another woman and becomes furious when she sees Antipholus of Syracuse with her sister. She drags him home and locks him in, believing him to be her husband.
Meanwhile, Dromio of Syracuse is sent to buy a rope, but is mistaken for Dromio of Ephesus and is beaten by his twin's wife, Nell.
The confusion continues as Antipholus of Ephesus returns home to find the doors locked and is denied entry by his own wife. He then encounters his twin brother's mistress, who gives him a chain that was intended for Antipholus of Syracuse.
The act ends with Aegeon recognizing the Syracusans and attempting to explain their presence in Ephesus, but he is interrupted by the arrival of officers who are sent to arrest him.
SCENE I. A hall in DUKE SOLINUS'S palace.
Scene 1 of Act 1 takes place in a busy marketplace in the city of Ephesus. A merchant named Aegeon is brought before the Duke of Ephesus and sentenced to death for violating the laws of the city by entering it as a Syracusan. Aegeon explains that he is from Syracuse and is searching for his wife and twin sons, who were separated from him during a shipwreck many years ago. The Duke is moved by Aegeon's story and grants him one day to find someone to pay his ransom or else he will be executed. Aegeon agrees and laments his misfortune, wondering if he will ever be reunited with his family. As the scene ends, we see two pairs of twins, both named Antipholus and Dromio, who have been separated from each other since birth. One pair is from Syracuse and the other from Ephesus. They have arrived in the marketplace and are immediately mistaken for each other, leading to a series of comedic misunderstandings and mistaken identities.
Enter DUKE SOLINUS, AEGEON, Gaoler, Officers, and other Attendants
AEGEON
Proceed, Solinus, to procure my fall
Link: 1.1.1
And by the doom of death end woes and all.
Link: 1.1.2
DUKE SOLINUS
Merchant of Syracuse, plead no more;
Link: 1.1.3
I am not partial to infringe our laws:
Link: 1.1.4
The enmity and discord which of late
Link: 1.1.5
Sprung from the rancorous outrage of your duke
Link: 1.1.6
To merchants, our well-dealing countrymen,
Link: 1.1.7
Who wanting guilders to redeem their lives
Link: 1.1.8
Have seal'd his rigorous statutes with their bloods,
Link: 1.1.9
Excludes all pity from our threatening looks.
Link: 1.1.10
For, since the mortal and intestine jars
Link: 1.1.11
'Twixt thy seditious countrymen and us,
Link: 1.1.12
It hath in solemn synods been decreed
Link: 1.1.13
Both by the Syracusians and ourselves,
Link: 1.1.14
To admit no traffic to our adverse towns Nay, more,
Link: 1.1.15
If any born at Ephesus be seen
Link: 1.1.16
At any Syracusian marts and fairs;
Link: 1.1.17
Again: if any Syracusian born
Link: 1.1.18
Come to the bay of Ephesus, he dies,
Link: 1.1.19
His goods confiscate to the duke's dispose,
Link: 1.1.20
Unless a thousand marks be levied,
Link: 1.1.21
To quit the penalty and to ransom him.
Link: 1.1.22
Thy substance, valued at the highest rate,
Link: 1.1.23
Cannot amount unto a hundred marks;
Link: 1.1.24
Therefore by law thou art condemned to die.
Link: 1.1.25
AEGEON
Yet this my comfort: when your words are done,
Link: 1.1.26
My woes end likewise with the evening sun.
Link: 1.1.27
DUKE SOLINUS
Well, Syracusian, say in brief the cause
Link: 1.1.28
Why thou departed'st from thy native home
Link: 1.1.29
And for what cause thou camest to Ephesus.
Link: 1.1.30
AEGEON
A heavier task could not have been imposed
Link: 1.1.31
Than I to speak my griefs unspeakable:
Link: 1.1.32
Yet, that the world may witness that my end
Link: 1.1.33
Was wrought by nature, not by vile offence,
Link: 1.1.34
I'll utter what my sorrows give me leave.
Link: 1.1.35
In Syracusa was I born, and wed
Link: 1.1.36
Unto a woman, happy but for me,
Link: 1.1.37
And by me, had not our hap been bad.
Link: 1.1.38
With her I lived in joy; our wealth increased
Link: 1.1.39
By prosperous voyages I often made
Link: 1.1.40
To Epidamnum; till my factor's death
Link: 1.1.41
And the great care of goods at random left
Link: 1.1.42
Drew me from kind embracements of my spouse:
Link: 1.1.43
From whom my absence was not six months old
Link: 1.1.44
Before herself, almost at fainting under
Link: 1.1.45
The pleasing punishment that women bear,
Link: 1.1.46
Had made provision for her following me
Link: 1.1.47
And soon and safe arrived where I was.
Link: 1.1.48
There had she not been long, but she became
Link: 1.1.49
A joyful mother of two goodly sons;
Link: 1.1.50
And, which was strange, the one so like the other,
Link: 1.1.51
As could not be distinguish'd but by names.
Link: 1.1.52
That very hour, and in the self-same inn,
Link: 1.1.53
A meaner woman was delivered
Link: 1.1.54
Of such a burden, male twins, both alike:
Link: 1.1.55
Those,--for their parents were exceeding poor,--
Link: 1.1.56
I bought and brought up to attend my sons.
Link: 1.1.57
My wife, not meanly proud of two such boys,
Link: 1.1.58
Made daily motions for our home return:
Link: 1.1.59
Unwilling I agreed. Alas! too soon,
Link: 1.1.60
We came aboard.
Link: 1.1.61
A league from Epidamnum had we sail'd,
Link: 1.1.62
Before the always wind-obeying deep
Link: 1.1.63
Gave any tragic instance of our harm:
Link: 1.1.64
But longer did we not retain much hope;
Link: 1.1.65
For what obscured light the heavens did grant
Link: 1.1.66
Did but convey unto our fearful minds
Link: 1.1.67
A doubtful warrant of immediate death;
Link: 1.1.68
Which though myself would gladly have embraced,
Link: 1.1.69
Yet the incessant weepings of my wife,
Link: 1.1.70
Weeping before for what she saw must come,
Link: 1.1.71
And piteous plainings of the pretty babes,
Link: 1.1.72
That mourn'd for fashion, ignorant what to fear,
Link: 1.1.73
Forced me to seek delays for them and me.
Link: 1.1.74
And this it was, for other means was none:
Link: 1.1.75
The sailors sought for safety by our boat,
Link: 1.1.76
And left the ship, then sinking-ripe, to us:
Link: 1.1.77
My wife, more careful for the latter-born,
Link: 1.1.78
Had fasten'd him unto a small spare mast,
Link: 1.1.79
Such as seafaring men provide for storms;
Link: 1.1.80
To him one of the other twins was bound,
Link: 1.1.81
Whilst I had been like heedful of the other:
Link: 1.1.82
The children thus disposed, my wife and I,
Link: 1.1.83
Fixing our eyes on whom our care was fix'd,
Link: 1.1.84
Fasten'd ourselves at either end the mast;
Link: 1.1.85
And floating straight, obedient to the stream,
Link: 1.1.86
Was carried towards Corinth, as we thought.
Link: 1.1.87
At length the sun, gazing upon the earth,
Link: 1.1.88
Dispersed those vapours that offended us;
Link: 1.1.89
And by the benefit of his wished light,
Link: 1.1.90
The seas wax'd calm, and we discovered
Link: 1.1.91
Two ships from far making amain to us,
Link: 1.1.92
Of Corinth that, of Epidaurus this:
Link: 1.1.93
But ere they came,--O, let me say no more!
Link: 1.1.94
Gather the sequel by that went before.
Link: 1.1.95
DUKE SOLINUS
Nay, forward, old man; do not break off so;
Link: 1.1.96
For we may pity, though not pardon thee.
Link: 1.1.97
AEGEON
O, had the gods done so, I had not now
Link: 1.1.98
Worthily term'd them merciless to us!
Link: 1.1.99
For, ere the ships could meet by twice five leagues,
Link: 1.1.100
We were encounterd by a mighty rock;
Link: 1.1.101
Which being violently borne upon,
Link: 1.1.102
Our helpful ship was splitted in the midst;
Link: 1.1.103
So that, in this unjust divorce of us,
Link: 1.1.104
Fortune had left to both of us alike
Link: 1.1.105
What to delight in, what to sorrow for.
Link: 1.1.106
Her part, poor soul! seeming as burdened
Link: 1.1.107
With lesser weight but not with lesser woe,
Link: 1.1.108
Was carried with more speed before the wind;
Link: 1.1.109
And in our sight they three were taken up
Link: 1.1.110
By fishermen of Corinth, as we thought.
Link: 1.1.111
At length, another ship had seized on us;
Link: 1.1.112
And, knowing whom it was their hap to save,
Link: 1.1.113
Gave healthful welcome to their shipwreck'd guests;
Link: 1.1.114
And would have reft the fishers of their prey,
Link: 1.1.115
Had not their bark been very slow of sail;
Link: 1.1.116
And therefore homeward did they bend their course.
Link: 1.1.117
Thus have you heard me sever'd from my bliss;
Link: 1.1.118
That by misfortunes was my life prolong'd,
Link: 1.1.119
To tell sad stories of my own mishaps.
Link: 1.1.120
DUKE SOLINUS
And for the sake of them thou sorrowest for,
Link: 1.1.121
Do me the favour to dilate at full
Link: 1.1.122
What hath befall'n of them and thee till now.
Link: 1.1.123
AEGEON
My youngest boy, and yet my eldest care,
Link: 1.1.124
At eighteen years became inquisitive
Link: 1.1.125
After his brother: and importuned me
Link: 1.1.126
That his attendant--so his case was like,
Link: 1.1.127
Reft of his brother, but retain'd his name--
Link: 1.1.128
Might bear him company in the quest of him:
Link: 1.1.129
Whom whilst I labour'd of a love to see,
Link: 1.1.130
I hazarded the loss of whom I loved.
Link: 1.1.131
Five summers have I spent in furthest Greece,
Link: 1.1.132
Roaming clean through the bounds of Asia,
Link: 1.1.133
And, coasting homeward, came to Ephesus;
Link: 1.1.134
Hopeless to find, yet loath to leave unsought
Link: 1.1.135
Or that or any place that harbours men.
Link: 1.1.136
But here must end the story of my life;
Link: 1.1.137
And happy were I in my timely death,
Link: 1.1.138
Could all my travels warrant me they live.
Link: 1.1.139
DUKE SOLINUS
Hapless AEgeon, whom the fates have mark'd
Link: 1.1.140
To bear the extremity of dire mishap!
Link: 1.1.141
Now, trust me, were it not against our laws,
Link: 1.1.142
Against my crown, my oath, my dignity,
Link: 1.1.143
Which princes, would they, may not disannul,
Link: 1.1.144
My soul would sue as advocate for thee.
Link: 1.1.145
But, though thou art adjudged to the death
Link: 1.1.146
And passed sentence may not be recall'd
Link: 1.1.147
But to our honour's great disparagement,
Link: 1.1.148
Yet I will favour thee in what I can.
Link: 1.1.149
Therefore, merchant, I'll limit thee this day
Link: 1.1.150
To seek thy life by beneficial help:
Link: 1.1.151
Try all the friends thou hast in Ephesus;
Link: 1.1.152
Beg thou, or borrow, to make up the sum,
Link: 1.1.153
And live; if no, then thou art doom'd to die.
Link: 1.1.154
Gaoler, take him to thy custody.
Link: 1.1.155
Gaoler
I will, my lord.
Link: 1.1.156
AEGEON
Hopeless and helpless doth AEgeon wend,
Link: 1.1.157
But to procrastinate his lifeless end.
Link: 1.1.158
Exeunt
SCENE II. The Mart.
Scene 2 of Act 1 features a conversation between Antipholus of Syracuse and his servant, Dromio of Syracuse. They are both newcomers to the city of Ephesus and are confused by the strange behavior of the locals, who seem to know them despite their never having visited the city before. Antipholus of Syracuse is searching for his long-lost twin brother, whom he believes to be in Ephesus, and enlists Dromio's help in finding him. Dromio of Syracuse recounts a strange encounter he had with Antipholus of Ephesus's wife, who mistook him for her husband's servant and gave him a valuable gold chain to deliver to her husband. Antipholus of Syracuse becomes intrigued by the possibility that his brother may be wealthy and well-respected in the city. As they continue to wander through the city, Antipholus of Syracuse is mistaken for his twin brother by various people, including a merchant who insists that he owes him money for a debt he doesn't remember owing. The confusion and mistaken identities continue to pile up, creating a comedic and chaotic atmosphere in the city.
Enter ANTIPHOLUS of Syracuse, DROMIO of Syracuse, and First Merchant
First Merchant
Therefore give out you are of Epidamnum,
Link: 1.2.1
Lest that your goods too soon be confiscate.
Link: 1.2.2
This very day a Syracusian merchant
Link: 1.2.3
Is apprehended for arrival here;
Link: 1.2.4
And not being able to buy out his life
Link: 1.2.5
According to the statute of the town,
Link: 1.2.6
Dies ere the weary sun set in the west.
Link: 1.2.7
There is your money that I had to keep.
Link: 1.2.8
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
Go bear it to the Centaur, where we host,
Link: 1.2.9
And stay there, Dromio, till I come to thee.
Link: 1.2.10
Within this hour it will be dinner-time:
Link: 1.2.11
Till that, I'll view the manners of the town,
Link: 1.2.12
Peruse the traders, gaze upon the buildings,
Link: 1.2.13
And then return and sleep within mine inn,
Link: 1.2.14
For with long travel I am stiff and weary.
Link: 1.2.15
Get thee away.
Link: 1.2.16
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
Many a man would take you at your word,
Link: 1.2.17
And go indeed, having so good a mean.
Link: 1.2.18
Exit
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
A trusty villain, sir, that very oft,
Link: 1.2.19
When I am dull with care and melancholy,
Link: 1.2.20
Lightens my humour with his merry jests.
Link: 1.2.21
What, will you walk with me about the town,
Link: 1.2.22
And then go to my inn and dine with me?
Link: 1.2.23
First Merchant
I am invited, sir, to certain merchants,
Link: 1.2.24
Of whom I hope to make much benefit;
Link: 1.2.25
I crave your pardon. Soon at five o'clock,
Link: 1.2.26
Please you, I'll meet with you upon the mart
Link: 1.2.27
And afterward consort you till bed-time:
Link: 1.2.28
My present business calls me from you now.
Link: 1.2.29
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
Farewell till then: I will go lose myself
Link: 1.2.30
And wander up and down to view the city.
Link: 1.2.31
First Merchant
Sir, I commend you to your own content.
Link: 1.2.32
Exit
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
He that commends me to mine own content
Link: 1.2.33
Commends me to the thing I cannot get.
Link: 1.2.34
I to the world am like a drop of water
Link: 1.2.35
That in the ocean seeks another drop,
Link: 1.2.36
Who, falling there to find his fellow forth,
Link: 1.2.37
Unseen, inquisitive, confounds himself:
Link: 1.2.38
So I, to find a mother and a brother,
Link: 1.2.39
In quest of them, unhappy, lose myself.
Link: 1.2.40
Here comes the almanac of my true date.
Link: 1.2.41
What now? how chance thou art return'd so soon?
Link: 1.2.42
DROMIO OF EPHESUS
Return'd so soon! rather approach'd too late:
Link: 1.2.43
The capon burns, the pig falls from the spit,
Link: 1.2.44
The clock hath strucken twelve upon the bell;
Link: 1.2.45
My mistress made it one upon my cheek:
Link: 1.2.46
She is so hot because the meat is cold;
Link: 1.2.47
The meat is cold because you come not home;
Link: 1.2.48
You come not home because you have no stomach;
Link: 1.2.49
You have no stomach having broke your fast;
Link: 1.2.50
But we that know what 'tis to fast and pray
Link: 1.2.51
Are penitent for your default to-day.
Link: 1.2.52
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
Stop in your wind, sir: tell me this, I pray:
Link: 1.2.53
Where have you left the money that I gave you?
Link: 1.2.54
DROMIO OF EPHESUS
O,--sixpence, that I had o' Wednesday last
Link: 1.2.55
To pay the saddler for my mistress' crupper?
Link: 1.2.56
The saddler had it, sir; I kept it not.
Link: 1.2.57
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
I am not in a sportive humour now:
Link: 1.2.58
Tell me, and dally not, where is the money?
Link: 1.2.59
We being strangers here, how darest thou trust
Link: 1.2.60
So great a charge from thine own custody?
Link: 1.2.61
DROMIO OF EPHESUS
I pray you, air, as you sit at dinner:
Link: 1.2.62
I from my mistress come to you in post;
Link: 1.2.63
If I return, I shall be post indeed,
Link: 1.2.64
For she will score your fault upon my pate.
Link: 1.2.65
Methinks your maw, like mine, should be your clock,
Link: 1.2.66
And strike you home without a messenger.
Link: 1.2.67
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
Come, Dromio, come, these jests are out of season;
Link: 1.2.68
Reserve them till a merrier hour than this.
Link: 1.2.69
Where is the gold I gave in charge to thee?
Link: 1.2.70
DROMIO OF EPHESUS
To me, sir? why, you gave no gold to me.
Link: 1.2.71
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
Come on, sir knave, have done your foolishness,
Link: 1.2.72
And tell me how thou hast disposed thy charge.
Link: 1.2.73
DROMIO OF EPHESUS
My charge was but to fetch you from the mart
Link: 1.2.74
Home to your house, the Phoenix, sir, to dinner:
Link: 1.2.75
My mistress and her sister stays for you.
Link: 1.2.76
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
In what safe place you have bestow'd my money,
Link: 1.2.77
Or I shall break that merry sconce of yours
Link: 1.2.78
That stands on tricks when I am undisposed:
Link: 1.2.79
Where is the thousand marks thou hadst of me?
Link: 1.2.80
DROMIO OF EPHESUS
I have some marks of yours upon my pate,
Link: 1.2.81
Some of my mistress' marks upon my shoulders,
Link: 1.2.82
But not a thousand marks between you both.
Link: 1.2.83
If I should pay your worship those again,
Link: 1.2.84
Perchance you will not bear them patiently.
Link: 1.2.85
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
Thy mistress' marks? what mistress, slave, hast thou?
Link: 1.2.86
DROMIO OF EPHESUS
Your worship's wife, my mistress at the Phoenix;
Link: 1.2.87
She that doth fast till you come home to dinner,
Link: 1.2.88
And prays that you will hie you home to dinner.
Link: 1.2.89
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
What, wilt thou flout me thus unto my face,
Link: 1.2.90
Being forbid? There, take you that, sir knave.
Link: 1.2.91
DROMIO OF EPHESUS
What mean you, sir? for God's sake, hold your hands!
Link: 1.2.92
Nay, and you will not, sir, I'll take my heels.
Link: 1.2.93
Exit
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
Upon my life, by some device or other
Link: 1.2.94
The villain is o'er-raught of all my money.
Link: 1.2.95
They say this town is full of cozenage,
Link: 1.2.96
As, nimble jugglers that deceive the eye,
Link: 1.2.97
Dark-working sorcerers that change the mind,
Link: 1.2.98
Soul-killing witches that deform the body,
Link: 1.2.99
Disguised cheaters, prating mountebanks,
Link: 1.2.100
And many such-like liberties of sin:
Link: 1.2.101
If it prove so, I will be gone the sooner.
Link: 1.2.102
I'll to the Centaur, to go seek this slave:
Link: 1.2.103
I greatly fear my money is not safe.
Link: 1.2.104
Exit
Act II
In Act 2 of The Comedy of Errors, Antipholus of Syracuse continues his search for his lost twin brother and his mother. He meets a courtesan who mistakes him for his twin brother, Antipholus of Ephesus, and invites him to her house. Meanwhile, his servant, Dromio of Syracuse, is also mistaken for his twin brother's servant, Dromio of Ephesus, and is beaten by Antipholus of Ephesus for not delivering a message.
Antipholus of Syracuse is bewitched by the courtesan and decides to buy a gold chain from a jeweler to give to her. However, he is unable to pay for it and leaves it with the jeweler. When Antipholus of Ephesus arrives at the jeweler's shop, he is mistaken for his twin brother and the jeweler gives him the gold chain.
Meanwhile, Adriana, the wife of Antipholus of Ephesus, is angry with her husband for not coming home for dinner. She mistakenly believes that Antipholus of Syracuse is her husband and invites him into her home. When Antipholus of Ephesus and his servant, Dromio of Ephesus, arrive, they are denied entry and are accused of being drunk and mad.
The confusion and mistaken identity continue to escalate as the two sets of twins cross paths and are mistaken for one another. The act ends with Antipholus of Syracuse being arrested for not paying the jeweler for the gold chain and Antipholus of Ephesus being locked out of his own home.
SCENE I. The house of ANTIPHOLUS of Ephesus.
Act 2 Scene 1 of The Comedy of Errors is set in a public marketplace in Ephesus. Antipholus of Syracuse, a visitor to the town, is accompanied by his servant, Dromio of Syracuse. They are looking for a place to eat and rest. Antipholus sees a goldsmith's shop and decides to go in. He asks the goldsmith, Angelo, to show him some of his wares. Angelo shows him a chain, which Antipholus admires. Angelo tells him that the chain is not for sale, but Antipholus insists on buying it. Angelo agrees to sell it to him for a hundred marks. Antipholus sends Dromio to their lodging to fetch the money for the chain. While Dromio is gone, Antipholus runs into his twin brother, Antipholus of Ephesus, who is a resident of the town. Antipholus of Ephesus is surprised to see his brother and asks him why he has come to Ephesus. Antipholus of Syracuse is confused by his brother's familiarity with him and denies knowing him. Meanwhile, Dromio of Ephesus, the servant of Antipholus of Ephesus, arrives at the goldsmith's shop to deliver a message from his master. Angelo mistakes him for Dromio of Syracuse and gives him the chain that Antipholus of Syracuse has just purchased. Dromio of Ephesus is confused by this and tries to explain that he is not the person Angelo thinks he is. When Dromio of Syracuse returns with the money, he is confused to find his master with a chain he did not have before. Antipholus of Syracuse is also confused by the arrival of his brother's servant. The two Dromios begin to argue and Antipholus of Syracuse becomes angry with his servant. The scene ends with both Antipholus twins and their respective Dromios confused about what is happening.
Enter ADRIANA and LUCIANA
ADRIANA
Neither my husband nor the slave return'd,
Link: 2.1.1
That in such haste I sent to seek his master!
Link: 2.1.2
Sure, Luciana, it is two o'clock.
Link: 2.1.3
LUCIANA
Perhaps some merchant hath invited him,
Link: 2.1.4
And from the mart he's somewhere gone to dinner.
Link: 2.1.5
Good sister, let us dine and never fret:
Link: 2.1.6
A man is master of his liberty:
Link: 2.1.7
Time is their master, and, when they see time,
Link: 2.1.8
They'll go or come: if so, be patient, sister.
Link: 2.1.9
ADRIANA
Why should their liberty than ours be more?
Link: 2.1.10
LUCIANA
Because their business still lies out o' door.
Link: 2.1.11
ADRIANA
Look, when I serve him so, he takes it ill.
Link: 2.1.12
LUCIANA
O, know he is the bridle of your will.
Link: 2.1.13
ADRIANA
There's none but asses will be bridled so.
Link: 2.1.14
LUCIANA
Why, headstrong liberty is lash'd with woe.
Link: 2.1.15
There's nothing situate under heaven's eye
Link: 2.1.16
But hath his bound, in earth, in sea, in sky:
Link: 2.1.17
The beasts, the fishes, and the winged fowls,
Link: 2.1.18
Are their males' subjects and at their controls:
Link: 2.1.19
Men, more divine, the masters of all these,
Link: 2.1.20
Lords of the wide world and wild watery seas,
Link: 2.1.21
Indued with intellectual sense and souls,
Link: 2.1.22
Of more preeminence than fish and fowls,
Link: 2.1.23
Are masters to their females, and their lords:
Link: 2.1.24
Then let your will attend on their accords.
Link: 2.1.25
ADRIANA
This servitude makes you to keep unwed.
Link: 2.1.26
LUCIANA
Not this, but troubles of the marriage-bed.
Link: 2.1.27
ADRIANA
But, were you wedded, you would bear some sway.
Link: 2.1.28
LUCIANA
Ere I learn love, I'll practise to obey.
Link: 2.1.29
ADRIANA
How if your husband start some other where?
Link: 2.1.30
LUCIANA
Till he come home again, I would forbear.
Link: 2.1.31
ADRIANA
Patience unmoved! no marvel though she pause;
Link: 2.1.32
They can be meek that have no other cause.
Link: 2.1.33
A wretched soul, bruised with adversity,
Link: 2.1.34
We bid be quiet when we hear it cry;
Link: 2.1.35
But were we burdened with like weight of pain,
Link: 2.1.36
As much or more would we ourselves complain:
Link: 2.1.37
So thou, that hast no unkind mate to grieve thee,
Link: 2.1.38
With urging helpless patience wouldst relieve me,
Link: 2.1.39
But, if thou live to see like right bereft,
Link: 2.1.40
This fool-begg'd patience in thee will be left.
Link: 2.1.41
LUCIANA
Well, I will marry one day, but to try.
Link: 2.1.42
Here comes your man; now is your husband nigh.
Link: 2.1.43
Enter DROMIO of Ephesus
ADRIANA
Say, is your tardy master now at hand?
Link: 2.1.44
DROMIO OF EPHESUS
Nay, he's at two hands with me, and that my two ears
Link: 2.1.45
can witness.
Link: 2.1.46
ADRIANA
Say, didst thou speak with him? know'st thou his mind?
Link: 2.1.47
DROMIO OF EPHESUS
Ay, ay, he told his mind upon mine ear:
Link: 2.1.48
Beshrew his hand, I scarce could understand it.
Link: 2.1.49
LUCIANA
Spake he so doubtfully, thou couldst not feel his meaning?
Link: 2.1.50
DROMIO OF EPHESUS
Nay, he struck so plainly, I could too well feel his
Link: 2.1.51
blows; and withal so doubtfully that I could scarce
Link: 2.1.52
understand them.
Link: 2.1.53
ADRIANA
But say, I prithee, is he coming home? It seems he
Link: 2.1.54
hath great care to please his wife.
Link: 2.1.55
DROMIO OF EPHESUS
Why, mistress, sure my master is horn-mad.
Link: 2.1.56
ADRIANA
Horn-mad, thou villain!
Link: 2.1.57
DROMIO OF EPHESUS
I mean not cuckold-mad;
Link: 2.1.58
But, sure, he is stark mad.
Link: 2.1.59
When I desired him to come home to dinner,
Link: 2.1.60
He ask'd me for a thousand marks in gold:
Link: 2.1.61
''Tis dinner-time,' quoth I; 'My gold!' quoth he;
Link: 2.1.62
'Your meat doth burn,' quoth I; 'My gold!' quoth he:
Link: 2.1.63
'Will you come home?' quoth I; 'My gold!' quoth he.
Link: 2.1.64
'Where is the thousand marks I gave thee, villain?'
Link: 2.1.65
'The pig,' quoth I, 'is burn'd;' 'My gold!' quoth he:
Link: 2.1.66
'My mistress, sir' quoth I; 'Hang up thy mistress!
Link: 2.1.67
I know not thy mistress; out on thy mistress!'
Link: 2.1.68
LUCIANA
Quoth who?
Link: 2.1.69
DROMIO OF EPHESUS
Quoth my master:
Link: 2.1.70
'I know,' quoth he, 'no house, no wife, no mistress.'
Link: 2.1.71
So that my errand, due unto my tongue,
Link: 2.1.72
I thank him, I bare home upon my shoulders;
Link: 2.1.73
For, in conclusion, he did beat me there.
Link: 2.1.74
ADRIANA
Go back again, thou slave, and fetch him home.
Link: 2.1.75
DROMIO OF EPHESUS
Go back again, and be new beaten home?
Link: 2.1.76
For God's sake, send some other messenger.
Link: 2.1.77
ADRIANA
Back, slave, or I will break thy pate across.
Link: 2.1.78
DROMIO OF EPHESUS
And he will bless that cross with other beating:
Link: 2.1.79
Between you I shall have a holy head.
Link: 2.1.80
ADRIANA
Hence, prating peasant! fetch thy master home.
Link: 2.1.81
DROMIO OF EPHESUS
Am I so round with you as you with me,
Link: 2.1.82
That like a football you do spurn me thus?
Link: 2.1.83
You spurn me hence, and he will spurn me hither:
Link: 2.1.84
If I last in this service, you must case me in leather.
Link: 2.1.85
Exit
LUCIANA
Fie, how impatience loureth in your face!
Link: 2.1.86
ADRIANA
His company must do his minions grace,
Link: 2.1.87
Whilst I at home starve for a merry look.
Link: 2.1.88
Hath homely age the alluring beauty took
Link: 2.1.89
From my poor cheek? then he hath wasted it:
Link: 2.1.90
Are my discourses dull? barren my wit?
Link: 2.1.91
If voluble and sharp discourse be marr'd,
Link: 2.1.92
Unkindness blunts it more than marble hard:
Link: 2.1.93
Do their gay vestments his affections bait?
Link: 2.1.94
That's not my fault: he's master of my state:
Link: 2.1.95
What ruins are in me that can be found,
Link: 2.1.96
By him not ruin'd? then is he the ground
Link: 2.1.97
Of my defeatures. My decayed fair
Link: 2.1.98
A sunny look of his would soon repair
Link: 2.1.99
But, too unruly deer, he breaks the pale
Link: 2.1.100
And feeds from home; poor I am but his stale.
Link: 2.1.101
LUCIANA
Self-harming jealousy! fie, beat it hence!
Link: 2.1.102
ADRIANA
Unfeeling fools can with such wrongs dispense.
Link: 2.1.103
I know his eye doth homage otherwhere,
Link: 2.1.104
Or else what lets it but he would be here?
Link: 2.1.105
Sister, you know he promised me a chain;
Link: 2.1.106
Would that alone, alone he would detain,
Link: 2.1.107
So he would keep fair quarter with his bed!
Link: 2.1.108
I see the jewel best enamelled
Link: 2.1.109
Will lose his beauty; yet the gold bides still,
Link: 2.1.110
That others touch, and often touching will
Link: 2.1.111
Wear gold: and no man that hath a name,
Link: 2.1.112
By falsehood and corruption doth it shame.
Link: 2.1.113
Since that my beauty cannot please his eye,
Link: 2.1.114
I'll weep what's left away, and weeping die.
Link: 2.1.115
LUCIANA
How many fond fools serve mad jealousy!
Link: 2.1.116
Exeunt
SCENE II. A public place.
Scene 2 of Act 2 takes place in a market-place where Antipholus of Syracuse is conversing with a merchant. The merchant advises him to buy a beautiful chain for his wife as a gift. Antipholus sees the chain and likes it. He asks the merchant about the price, but the merchant refuses to sell it to him, mistaking him for Antipholus of Ephesus. The merchant tells Antipholus that he has already bought the chain from him and owes him the money. Antipholus is confused and denies having bought the chain. The merchant insists and takes Antipholus to Angelo, a goldsmith, to whom he sold the chain. Angelo, too, mistakes Antipholus for his Ephesian counterpart and demands payment for the chain. Antipholus is outraged and refuses to pay, as he has not bought the chain. Angelo calls the police to arrest him, but Antipholus escapes. The confusion is further compounded when Dromio of Syracuse arrives and mistakes Antipholus for his master. Antipholus sends him to their inn to fetch some money, but Dromio is stopped by Angelo, who beats him for not paying for the chain. Dromio runs back to Antipholus and tells him about the incident, adding to the confusion. Antipholus realizes that he is in a strange city, where everyone seems to know him and his brother. He wonders if he is going mad and decides to leave the city. Meanwhile, Adriana, Antipholus of Ephesus' wife, is worried about her husband's absence and sends her sister Luciana to find him. Luciana meets Antipholus of Syracuse and mistakes him for her brother-in-law. She tries to persuade him to come back to his wife, but he falls in love with her and kisses her. Luciana is shocked and runs away, leaving Antipholus more confused than ever.
Enter ANTIPHOLUS of Syracuse
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
The gold I gave to Dromio is laid up
Link: 2.2.1
Safe at the Centaur; and the heedful slave
Link: 2.2.2
Is wander'd forth, in care to seek me out
Link: 2.2.3
By computation and mine host's report.
Link: 2.2.4
I could not speak with Dromio since at first
Link: 2.2.5
I sent him from the mart. See, here he comes.
Link: 2.2.6
How now sir! is your merry humour alter'd?
Link: 2.2.7
As you love strokes, so jest with me again.
Link: 2.2.8
You know no Centaur? you received no gold?
Link: 2.2.9
Your mistress sent to have me home to dinner?
Link: 2.2.10
My house was at the Phoenix? Wast thou mad,
Link: 2.2.11
That thus so madly thou didst answer me?
Link: 2.2.12
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
What answer, sir? when spake I such a word?
Link: 2.2.13
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
Even now, even here, not half an hour since.
Link: 2.2.14
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
I did not see you since you sent me hence,
Link: 2.2.15
Home to the Centaur, with the gold you gave me.
Link: 2.2.16
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
Villain, thou didst deny the gold's receipt,
Link: 2.2.17
And told'st me of a mistress and a dinner;
Link: 2.2.18
For which, I hope, thou felt'st I was displeased.
Link: 2.2.19
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
I am glad to see you in this merry vein:
Link: 2.2.20
What means this jest? I pray you, master, tell me.
Link: 2.2.21
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
Yea, dost thou jeer and flout me in the teeth?
Link: 2.2.22
Think'st thou I jest? Hold, take thou that, and that.
Link: 2.2.23
Beating him
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
Hold, sir, for God's sake! now your jest is earnest:
Link: 2.2.24
Upon what bargain do you give it me?
Link: 2.2.25
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
Because that I familiarly sometimes
Link: 2.2.26
Do use you for my fool and chat with you,
Link: 2.2.27
Your sauciness will jest upon my love
Link: 2.2.28
And make a common of my serious hours.
Link: 2.2.29
When the sun shines let foolish gnats make sport,
Link: 2.2.30
But creep in crannies when he hides his beams.
Link: 2.2.31
If you will jest with me, know my aspect,
Link: 2.2.32
And fashion your demeanor to my looks,
Link: 2.2.33
Or I will beat this method in your sconce.
Link: 2.2.34
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
Sconce call you it? so you would leave battering, I
Link: 2.2.35
had rather have it a head: an you use these blows
Link: 2.2.36
long, I must get a sconce for my head and ensconce
Link: 2.2.37
it too; or else I shall seek my wit in my shoulders.
Link: 2.2.38
But, I pray, sir why am I beaten?
Link: 2.2.39
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
Dost thou not know?
Link: 2.2.40
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
Nothing, sir, but that I am beaten.
Link: 2.2.41
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
Shall I tell you why?
Link: 2.2.42
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
Ay, sir, and wherefore; for they say every why hath
Link: 2.2.43
a wherefore.
Link: 2.2.44
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
Why, first,--for flouting me; and then, wherefore--
Link: 2.2.45
For urging it the second time to me.
Link: 2.2.46
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
Was there ever any man thus beaten out of season,
Link: 2.2.47
When in the why and the wherefore is neither rhyme
Link: 2.2.48
nor reason?
Link: 2.2.49
Well, sir, I thank you.
Link: 2.2.50
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
Thank me, sir, for what?
Link: 2.2.51
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
Marry, sir, for this something that you gave me for nothing.
Link: 2.2.52
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
I'll make you amends next, to give you nothing for
Link: 2.2.53
something. But say, sir, is it dinner-time?
Link: 2.2.54
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
No, sir; I think the meat wants that I have.
Link: 2.2.55
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
In good time, sir; what's that?
Link: 2.2.56
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
Basting.
Link: 2.2.57
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
Well, sir, then 'twill be dry.
Link: 2.2.58
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
If it be, sir, I pray you, eat none of it.
Link: 2.2.59
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
Your reason?
Link: 2.2.60
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
Lest it make you choleric and purchase me another
Link: 2.2.61
dry basting.
Link: 2.2.62
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
Well, sir, learn to jest in good time: there's a
Link: 2.2.63
time for all things.
Link: 2.2.64
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
I durst have denied that, before you were so choleric.
Link: 2.2.65
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
By what rule, sir?
Link: 2.2.66
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
Marry, sir, by a rule as plain as the plain bald
Link: 2.2.67
pate of father Time himself.
Link: 2.2.68
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
Let's hear it.
Link: 2.2.69
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
There's no time for a man to recover his hair that
Link: 2.2.70
grows bald by nature.
Link: 2.2.71
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
May he not do it by fine and recovery?
Link: 2.2.72
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
Yes, to pay a fine for a periwig and recover the
Link: 2.2.73
lost hair of another man.
Link: 2.2.74
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
Why is Time such a niggard of hair, being, as it is,
Link: 2.2.75
so plentiful an excrement?
Link: 2.2.76
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
Because it is a blessing that he bestows on beasts;
Link: 2.2.77
and what he hath scanted men in hair he hath given them in wit.
Link: 2.2.78
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
Why, but there's many a man hath more hair than wit.
Link: 2.2.79
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
Not a man of those but he hath the wit to lose his hair.
Link: 2.2.80
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
Why, thou didst conclude hairy men plain dealers without wit.
Link: 2.2.81
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
The plainer dealer, the sooner lost: yet he loseth
Link: 2.2.82
it in a kind of jollity.
Link: 2.2.83
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
For what reason?
Link: 2.2.84
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
For two; and sound ones too.
Link: 2.2.85
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
Nay, not sound, I pray you.
Link: 2.2.86
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
Sure ones, then.
Link: 2.2.87
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
Nay, not sure, in a thing falsing.
Link: 2.2.88
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
Certain ones then.
Link: 2.2.89
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
Name them.
Link: 2.2.90
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
The one, to save the money that he spends in
Link: 2.2.91
trimming; the other, that at dinner they should not
Link: 2.2.92
drop in his porridge.
Link: 2.2.93
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
You would all this time have proved there is no
Link: 2.2.94
time for all things.
Link: 2.2.95
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
Marry, and did, sir; namely, no time to recover hair
Link: 2.2.96
lost by nature.
Link: 2.2.97
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
But your reason was not substantial, why there is no
Link: 2.2.98
time to recover.
Link: 2.2.99
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
Thus I mend it: Time himself is bald and therefore
Link: 2.2.100
to the world's end will have bald followers.
Link: 2.2.101
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
I knew 'twould be a bald conclusion:
Link: 2.2.102
But, soft! who wafts us yonder?
Link: 2.2.103
Enter ADRIANA and LUCIANA
ADRIANA
Ay, ay, Antipholus, look strange and frown:
Link: 2.2.104
Some other mistress hath thy sweet aspects;
Link: 2.2.105
I am not Adriana nor thy wife.
Link: 2.2.106
The time was once when thou unurged wouldst vow
Link: 2.2.107
That never words were music to thine ear,
Link: 2.2.108
That never object pleasing in thine eye,
Link: 2.2.109
That never touch well welcome to thy hand,
Link: 2.2.110
That never meat sweet-savor'd in thy taste,
Link: 2.2.111
Unless I spake, or look'd, or touch'd, or carved to thee.
Link: 2.2.112
How comes it now, my husband, O, how comes it,
Link: 2.2.113
That thou art thus estranged from thyself?
Link: 2.2.114
Thyself I call it, being strange to me,
Link: 2.2.115
That, undividable, incorporate,
Link: 2.2.116
Am better than thy dear self's better part.
Link: 2.2.117
Ah, do not tear away thyself from me!
Link: 2.2.118
For know, my love, as easy mayest thou fall
Link: 2.2.119
A drop of water in the breaking gulf,
Link: 2.2.120
And take unmingled that same drop again,
Link: 2.2.121
Without addition or diminishing,
Link: 2.2.122
As take from me thyself and not me too.
Link: 2.2.123
How dearly would it touch me to the quick,
Link: 2.2.124
Shouldst thou but hear I were licentious
Link: 2.2.125
And that this body, consecrate to thee,
Link: 2.2.126
By ruffian lust should be contaminate!
Link: 2.2.127
Wouldst thou not spit at me and spurn at me
Link: 2.2.128
And hurl the name of husband in my face
Link: 2.2.129
And tear the stain'd skin off my harlot-brow
Link: 2.2.130
And from my false hand cut the wedding-ring
Link: 2.2.131
And break it with a deep-divorcing vow?
Link: 2.2.132
I know thou canst; and therefore see thou do it.
Link: 2.2.133
I am possess'd with an adulterate blot;
Link: 2.2.134
My blood is mingled with the crime of lust:
Link: 2.2.135
For if we too be one and thou play false,
Link: 2.2.136
I do digest the poison of thy flesh,
Link: 2.2.137
Being strumpeted by thy contagion.
Link: 2.2.138
Keep then far league and truce with thy true bed;
Link: 2.2.139
I live unstain'd, thou undishonoured.
Link: 2.2.140
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
Plead you to me, fair dame? I know you not:
Link: 2.2.141
In Ephesus I am but two hours old,
Link: 2.2.142
As strange unto your town as to your talk;
Link: 2.2.143
Who, every word by all my wit being scann'd,
Link: 2.2.144
Want wit in all one word to understand.
Link: 2.2.145
LUCIANA
Fie, brother! how the world is changed with you!
Link: 2.2.146
When were you wont to use my sister thus?
Link: 2.2.147
She sent for you by Dromio home to dinner.
Link: 2.2.148
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
By Dromio?
Link: 2.2.149
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
By me?
Link: 2.2.150
ADRIANA
By thee; and this thou didst return from him,
Link: 2.2.151
That he did buffet thee, and, in his blows,
Link: 2.2.152
Denied my house for his, me for his wife.
Link: 2.2.153
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
Did you converse, sir, with this gentlewoman?
Link: 2.2.154
What is the course and drift of your compact?
Link: 2.2.155
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
I, sir? I never saw her till this time.
Link: 2.2.156
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
Villain, thou liest; for even her very words
Link: 2.2.157
Didst thou deliver to me on the mart.
Link: 2.2.158
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
I never spake with her in all my life.
Link: 2.2.159
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
How can she thus then call us by our names,
Link: 2.2.160
Unless it be by inspiration.
Link: 2.2.161
ADRIANA
How ill agrees it with your gravity
Link: 2.2.162
To counterfeit thus grossly with your slave,
Link: 2.2.163
Abetting him to thwart me in my mood!
Link: 2.2.164
Be it my wrong you are from me exempt,
Link: 2.2.165
But wrong not that wrong with a more contempt.
Link: 2.2.166
Come, I will fasten on this sleeve of thine:
Link: 2.2.167
Thou art an elm, my husband, I a vine,
Link: 2.2.168
Whose weakness, married to thy stronger state,
Link: 2.2.169
Makes me with thy strength to communicate:
Link: 2.2.170
If aught possess thee from me, it is dross,
Link: 2.2.171
Usurping ivy, brier, or idle moss;
Link: 2.2.172
Who, all for want of pruning, with intrusion
Link: 2.2.173
Infect thy sap and live on thy confusion.
Link: 2.2.174
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
To me she speaks; she moves me for her theme:
Link: 2.2.175
What, was I married to her in my dream?
Link: 2.2.176
Or sleep I now and think I hear all this?
Link: 2.2.177
What error drives our eyes and ears amiss?
Link: 2.2.178
Until I know this sure uncertainty,
Link: 2.2.179
I'll entertain the offer'd fallacy.
Link: 2.2.180
LUCIANA
Dromio, go bid the servants spread for dinner.
Link: 2.2.181
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
O, for my beads! I cross me for a sinner.
Link: 2.2.182
This is the fairy land: O spite of spites!
Link: 2.2.183
We talk with goblins, owls and sprites:
Link: 2.2.184
If we obey them not, this will ensue,
Link: 2.2.185
They'll suck our breath, or pinch us black and blue.
Link: 2.2.186
LUCIANA
Why pratest thou to thyself and answer'st not?
Link: 2.2.187
Dromio, thou drone, thou snail, thou slug, thou sot!
Link: 2.2.188
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
I am transformed, master, am I not?
Link: 2.2.189
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
I think thou art in mind, and so am I.
Link: 2.2.190
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
Nay, master, both in mind and in my shape.
Link: 2.2.191
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
Thou hast thine own form.
Link: 2.2.192
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
No, I am an ape.
Link: 2.2.193
LUCIANA
If thou art changed to aught, 'tis to an ass.
Link: 2.2.194
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
'Tis true; she rides me and I long for grass.
Link: 2.2.195
'Tis so, I am an ass; else it could never be
Link: 2.2.196
But I should know her as well as she knows me.
Link: 2.2.197
ADRIANA
Come, come, no longer will I be a fool,
Link: 2.2.198
To put the finger in the eye and weep,
Link: 2.2.199
Whilst man and master laugh my woes to scorn.
Link: 2.2.200
Come, sir, to dinner. Dromio, keep the gate.
Link: 2.2.201
Husband, I'll dine above with you to-day
Link: 2.2.202
And shrive you of a thousand idle pranks.
Link: 2.2.203
Sirrah, if any ask you for your master,
Link: 2.2.204
Say he dines forth, and let no creature enter.
Link: 2.2.205
Come, sister. Dromio, play the porter well.
Link: 2.2.206
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
Am I in earth, in heaven, or in hell?
Link: 2.2.207
Sleeping or waking? mad or well-advised?
Link: 2.2.208
Known unto these, and to myself disguised!
Link: 2.2.209
I'll say as they say and persever so,
Link: 2.2.210
And in this mist at all adventures go.
Link: 2.2.211
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
Master, shall I be porter at the gate?
Link: 2.2.212
ADRIANA
Ay; and let none enter, lest I break your pate.
Link: 2.2.213
LUCIANA
Come, come, Antipholus, we dine too late.
Link: 2.2.214
Exeunt
Act III
Act 3 of The Comedy of Errors begins with Antipholus of Syracuse and his servant, Dromio of Syracuse, trying to leave the city of Ephesus. However, they are stopped by Angelo, a goldsmith, who demands payment for a chain that Antipholus supposedly ordered. Antipholus denies having ordered the chain and refuses to pay, leading to a confrontation between the two.
Meanwhile, Antipholus of Ephesus returns home to find his wife, Adriana, upset and accusing him of being unfaithful. She also tells him that his servant, Dromio of Ephesus, has been acting strangely. Antipholus of Ephesus is confused by her accusations and decides to go to a nearby abbey for refuge.
At the abbey, Antipholus of Syracuse and Dromio of Syracuse run into Adriana and her sister, Luciana. Antipholus of Syracuse is immediately smitten with Luciana and tries to woo her, much to her confusion and discomfort. Dromio of Syracuse, on the other hand, is mistaken for his twin and is beaten by Adriana for not returning home earlier.
In the final scene of Act 3, Antipholus of Ephesus returns home with a conjurer named Dr. Pinch, who is supposed to exorcise his supposed madness. However, Antipholus of Syracuse and Dromio of Syracuse mistake Dr. Pinch for a thief and beat him. The scene ends with the two sets of twins facing each other, leading to confusion and hilarity.
SCENE I. Before the house of ANTIPHOLUS of Ephesus.
Scene 1 of Act 3 opens with Antipholus of Syracuse and his servant Dromio of Syracuse discussing their current situation. Antipholus is frustrated with the strange behavior of the people in the town and believes that everyone is playing a prank on him. Dromio tries to calm him down and suggests that they leave the town as soon as possible. As they are talking, Antipholus sees Angelo, a goldsmith, and asks him to give him a chain that he had ordered. Angelo denies knowing him and accuses him of joking. Antipholus becomes angry and threatens Angelo, who runs away. Antipholus and Dromio are confused and don't understand why Angelo is acting this way. Moments later, Adriana, the wife of Antipholus of Ephesus, enters the scene with Luciana, her sister. Adriana mistakes Antipholus of Syracuse for her husband and demands to know why he has been ignoring her and going out with other women. Antipholus denies knowing her and tries to leave, but Adriana and Luciana follow him, still trying to convince him that he is her husband. Meanwhile, Antipholus of Ephesus arrives with his own Dromio and is also confused when he is mistaken for his twin brother. The two sets of twins argue and accuse each other of being imposters. Eventually, Antipholus of Syracuse and Dromio of Syracuse are arrested and taken away. The scene is full of confusion and mistaken identities, as the characters struggle to understand what is happening around them. It sets the stage for the rest of the play, which is filled with comic misunderstandings and miscommunications.
Enter ANTIPHOLUS of Ephesus, DROMIO of Ephesus, ANGELO, and BALTHAZAR
OF EPHESUS
Good Signior Angelo, you must excuse us all;
Link: 3.1.1
My wife is shrewish when I keep not hours:
Link: 3.1.2
Say that I linger'd with you at your shop
Link: 3.1.3
To see the making of her carcanet,
Link: 3.1.4
And that to-morrow you will bring it home.
Link: 3.1.5
But here's a villain that would face me down
Link: 3.1.6
He met me on the mart, and that I beat him,
Link: 3.1.7
And charged him with a thousand marks in gold,
Link: 3.1.8
And that I did deny my wife and house.
Link: 3.1.9
Thou drunkard, thou, what didst thou mean by this?
Link: 3.1.10
DROMIO OF EPHESUS
Say what you will, sir, but I know what I know;
Link: 3.1.11
That you beat me at the mart, I have your hand to show:
Link: 3.1.12
If the skin were parchment, and the blows you gave were ink,
Link: 3.1.13
Your own handwriting would tell you what I think.
Link: 3.1.14
ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
I think thou art an ass.
Link: 3.1.15
DROMIO OF EPHESUS
Marry, so it doth appear
Link: 3.1.16
By the wrongs I suffer and the blows I bear.
Link: 3.1.17
I should kick, being kick'd; and, being at that pass,
Link: 3.1.18
You would keep from my heels and beware of an ass.
Link: 3.1.19
ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
You're sad, Signior Balthazar: pray God our cheer
Link: 3.1.20
May answer my good will and your good welcome here.
Link: 3.1.21
BALTHAZAR
I hold your dainties cheap, sir, and your
Link: 3.1.22
welcome dear.
Link: 3.1.23
ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
O, Signior Balthazar, either at flesh or fish,
Link: 3.1.24
A table full of welcome make scarce one dainty dish.
Link: 3.1.25
BALTHAZAR
Good meat, sir, is common; that every churl affords.
Link: 3.1.26
ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
And welcome more common; for that's nothing but words.
Link: 3.1.27
BALTHAZAR
Small cheer and great welcome makes a merry feast.
Link: 3.1.28
ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
Ay, to a niggardly host, and more sparing guest:
Link: 3.1.29
But though my cates be mean, take them in good part;
Link: 3.1.30
Better cheer may you have, but not with better heart.
Link: 3.1.31
But, soft! my door is lock'd. Go bid them let us in.
Link: 3.1.32
DROMIO OF EPHESUS
Maud, Bridget, Marian, Cicel, Gillian, Ginn!
Link: 3.1.33
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
(Within) Mome, malt-horse, capon, coxcomb,
Link: 3.1.34
idiot, patch!
Link: 3.1.35
Either get thee from the door, or sit down at the hatch.
Link: 3.1.36
Dost thou conjure for wenches, that thou call'st
Link: 3.1.37
for such store,
Link: 3.1.38
When one is one too many? Go, get thee from the door.
Link: 3.1.39
DROMIO OF EPHESUS
What patch is made our porter? My master stays in
Link: 3.1.40
the street.
Link: 3.1.41
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
(Within) Let him walk from whence he came, lest he
Link: 3.1.42
catch cold on's feet.
Link: 3.1.43
ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
Who talks within there? ho, open the door!
Link: 3.1.44
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
(Within) Right, sir; I'll tell you when, an you tell
Link: 3.1.45
me wherefore.
Link: 3.1.46
ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
Wherefore? for my dinner: I have not dined to-day.
Link: 3.1.47
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
(Within) Nor to-day here you must not; come again
Link: 3.1.48
when you may.
Link: 3.1.49
ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
What art thou that keepest me out from the house I owe?
Link: 3.1.50
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
(Within) The porter for this time, sir, and my name
Link: 3.1.51
is Dromio.
Link: 3.1.52
DROMIO OF EPHESUS
O villain! thou hast stolen both mine office and my name.
Link: 3.1.53
The one ne'er got me credit, the other mickle blame.
Link: 3.1.54
If thou hadst been Dromio to-day in my place,
Link: 3.1.55
Thou wouldst have changed thy face for a name or thy
Link: 3.1.56
name for an ass.
Link: 3.1.57
LUCE
(Within) What a coil is there, Dromio? who are those
Link: 3.1.58
at the gate?
Link: 3.1.59
DROMIO OF EPHESUS
Let my master in, Luce.
Link: 3.1.60
LUCE
(Within) Faith, no; he comes too late;
Link: 3.1.61
And so tell your master.
Link: 3.1.62
DROMIO OF EPHESUS
O Lord, I must laugh!
Link: 3.1.63
Have at you with a proverb--Shall I set in my staff?
Link: 3.1.64
LUCE
(Within) Have at you with another; that's--When?
Link: 3.1.65
can you tell?
Link: 3.1.66
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
(Within) If thy name be call'd Luce--Luce, thou hast
Link: 3.1.67
answered him well.
Link: 3.1.68
ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
Do you hear, you minion? you'll let us in, I hope?
Link: 3.1.69
LUCE
(Within) I thought to have asked you.
Link: 3.1.70
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
(Within) And you said no.
Link: 3.1.71
DROMIO OF EPHESUS
So, come, help: well struck! there was blow for blow.
Link: 3.1.72
ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
Thou baggage, let me in.
Link: 3.1.73
LUCE
(Within) Can you tell for whose sake?
Link: 3.1.74
DROMIO OF EPHESUS
Master, knock the door hard.
Link: 3.1.75
LUCE
(Within) Let him knock till it ache.
Link: 3.1.76
ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
You'll cry for this, minion, if I beat the door down.
Link: 3.1.77
LUCE
(Within) What needs all that, and a pair of stocks in the town?
Link: 3.1.78
ADRIANA
(Within) Who is that at the door that keeps all
Link: 3.1.79
this noise?
Link: 3.1.80
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
(Within) By my troth, your town is troubled with
Link: 3.1.81
unruly boys.
Link: 3.1.82
ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
Are you there, wife? you might have come before.
Link: 3.1.83
ADRIANA
(Within) Your wife, sir knave! go get you from the door.
Link: 3.1.84
DROMIO OF EPHESUS
If you went in pain, master, this 'knave' would go sore.
Link: 3.1.85
ANGELO
Here is neither cheer, sir, nor welcome: we would
Link: 3.1.86
fain have either.
Link: 3.1.87
BALTHAZAR
In debating which was best, we shall part with neither.
Link: 3.1.88
DROMIO OF EPHESUS
They stand at the door, master; bid them welcome hither.
Link: 3.1.89
ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
There is something in the wind, that we cannot get in.
Link: 3.1.90
DROMIO OF EPHESUS
You would say so, master, if your garments were thin.
Link: 3.1.91
Your cake there is warm within; you stand here in the cold:
Link: 3.1.92
It would make a man mad as a buck, to be so bought and sold.
Link: 3.1.93
ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
Go fetch me something: I'll break ope the gate.
Link: 3.1.94
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
(Within) Break any breaking here, and I'll break your
Link: 3.1.95
knave's pate.
Link: 3.1.96
DROMIO OF EPHESUS
A man may break a word with you, sir, and words are but wind,
Link: 3.1.97
Ay, and break it in your face, so he break it not behind.
Link: 3.1.98
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
(Within) It seems thou want'st breaking: out upon
Link: 3.1.99
thee, hind!
Link: 3.1.100
DROMIO OF EPHESUS
Here's too much 'out upon thee!' I pray thee,
Link: 3.1.101
let me in.
Link: 3.1.102
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
(Within) Ay, when fowls have no feathers and fish have no fin.
Link: 3.1.103
ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
Well, I'll break in: go borrow me a crow.
Link: 3.1.104
DROMIO OF EPHESUS
A crow without feather? Master, mean you so?
Link: 3.1.105
For a fish without a fin, there's a fowl without a feather;
Link: 3.1.106
If a crow help us in, sirrah, we'll pluck a crow together.
Link: 3.1.107
ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
Go get thee gone; fetch me an iron crow.
Link: 3.1.108
BALTHAZAR
Have patience, sir; O, let it not be so!
Link: 3.1.109
Herein you war against your reputation
Link: 3.1.110
And draw within the compass of suspect
Link: 3.1.111
The unviolated honour of your wife.
Link: 3.1.112
Once this,--your long experience of her wisdom,
Link: 3.1.113
Her sober virtue, years and modesty,
Link: 3.1.114
Plead on her part some cause to you unknown:
Link: 3.1.115
And doubt not, sir, but she will well excuse
Link: 3.1.116
Why at this time the doors are made against you.
Link: 3.1.117
Be ruled by me: depart in patience,
Link: 3.1.118
And let us to the Tiger all to dinner,
Link: 3.1.119
And about evening come yourself alone
Link: 3.1.120
To know the reason of this strange restraint.
Link: 3.1.121
If by strong hand you offer to break in
Link: 3.1.122
Now in the stirring passage of the day,
Link: 3.1.123
A vulgar comment will be made of it,
Link: 3.1.124
And that supposed by the common rout
Link: 3.1.125
Against your yet ungalled estimation
Link: 3.1.126
That may with foul intrusion enter in
Link: 3.1.127
And dwell upon your grave when you are dead;
Link: 3.1.128
For slander lives upon succession,
Link: 3.1.129
For ever housed where it gets possession.
Link: 3.1.130
ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
You have prevailed: I will depart in quiet,
Link: 3.1.131
And, in despite of mirth, mean to be merry.
Link: 3.1.132
I know a wench of excellent discourse,
Link: 3.1.133
Pretty and witty; wild, and yet, too, gentle:
Link: 3.1.134
There will we dine. This woman that I mean,
Link: 3.1.135
My wife--but, I protest, without desert--
Link: 3.1.136
Hath oftentimes upbraided me withal:
Link: 3.1.137
To her will we to dinner.
Link: 3.1.138
Get you home
Link: 3.1.139
And fetch the chain; by this I know 'tis made:
Link: 3.1.140
Bring it, I pray you, to the Porpentine;
Link: 3.1.141
For there's the house: that chain will I bestow--
Link: 3.1.142
Be it for nothing but to spite my wife--
Link: 3.1.143
Upon mine hostess there: good sir, make haste.
Link: 3.1.144
Since mine own doors refuse to entertain me,
Link: 3.1.145
I'll knock elsewhere, to see if they'll disdain me.
Link: 3.1.146
ANGELO
I'll meet you at that place some hour hence.
Link: 3.1.147
ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
Do so. This jest shall cost me some expense.
Link: 3.1.148
Exeunt
SCENE II. The same.
In Scene 2 of Act 3, a merchant named Angelo enters the stage looking for Antipholus of Syracuse. He mistakes Antipholus of Ephesus for the man he is looking for and gives him a gold chain that Angelo has been holding for Antipholus of Syracuse. Antipholus of Ephesus denies ever owing Angelo any money and refuses to take the chain. Angelo becomes angry and threatens to have Antipholus of Ephesus arrested. Meanwhile, Dromio of Syracuse enters the stage and mistakes Antipholus of Ephesus for his master. He tells him that he has found a ship and urges him to come and see it. Antipholus of Ephesus becomes even more confused and frustrated by the situation and accuses Dromio of playing a prank on him. The confusion continues as Adriana, the wife of Antipholus of Ephesus, enters the stage looking for her husband. She mistakes Antipholus of Syracuse for her husband and invites him to dinner. Antipholus of Syracuse is confused but accepts the invitation. The scene ends with Antipholus of Ephesus being arrested and taken away by the Duke's officer, while Antipholus of Syracuse and Dromio of Syracuse are left to try to make sense of the chaotic situation they have found themselves in.
Enter LUCIANA and ANTIPHOLUS of Syracuse
LUCIANA
And may it be that you have quite forgot
Link: 3.2.1
A husband's office? shall, Antipholus.
Link: 3.2.2
Even in the spring of love, thy love-springs rot?
Link: 3.2.3
Shall love, in building, grow so ruinous?
Link: 3.2.4
If you did wed my sister for her wealth,
Link: 3.2.5
Then for her wealth's sake use her with more kindness:
Link: 3.2.6
Or if you like elsewhere, do it by stealth;
Link: 3.2.7
Muffle your false love with some show of blindness:
Link: 3.2.8
Let not my sister read it in your eye;
Link: 3.2.9
Be not thy tongue thy own shame's orator;
Link: 3.2.10
Look sweet, be fair, become disloyalty;
Link: 3.2.11
Apparel vice like virtue's harbinger;
Link: 3.2.12
Bear a fair presence, though your heart be tainted;
Link: 3.2.13
Teach sin the carriage of a holy saint;
Link: 3.2.14
Be secret-false: what need she be acquainted?
Link: 3.2.15
What simple thief brags of his own attaint?
Link: 3.2.16
'Tis double wrong, to truant with your bed
Link: 3.2.17
And let her read it in thy looks at board:
Link: 3.2.18
Shame hath a bastard fame, well managed;
Link: 3.2.19
Ill deeds are doubled with an evil word.
Link: 3.2.20
Alas, poor women! make us but believe,
Link: 3.2.21
Being compact of credit, that you love us;
Link: 3.2.22
Though others have the arm, show us the sleeve;
Link: 3.2.23
We in your motion turn and you may move us.
Link: 3.2.24
Then, gentle brother, get you in again;
Link: 3.2.25
Comfort my sister, cheer her, call her wife:
Link: 3.2.26
'Tis holy sport to be a little vain,
Link: 3.2.27
When the sweet breath of flattery conquers strife.
Link: 3.2.28
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
Sweet mistress--what your name is else, I know not,
Link: 3.2.29
Nor by what wonder you do hit of mine,--
Link: 3.2.30
Less in your knowledge and your grace you show not
Link: 3.2.31
Than our earth's wonder, more than earth divine.
Link: 3.2.32
Teach me, dear creature, how to think and speak;
Link: 3.2.33
Lay open to my earthy-gross conceit,
Link: 3.2.34
Smother'd in errors, feeble, shallow, weak,
Link: 3.2.35
The folded meaning of your words' deceit.
Link: 3.2.36
Against my soul's pure truth why labour you
Link: 3.2.37
To make it wander in an unknown field?
Link: 3.2.38
Are you a god? would you create me new?
Link: 3.2.39
Transform me then, and to your power I'll yield.
Link: 3.2.40
But if that I am I, then well I know
Link: 3.2.41
Your weeping sister is no wife of mine,
Link: 3.2.42
Nor to her bed no homage do I owe
Link: 3.2.43
Far more, far more to you do I decline.
Link: 3.2.44
O, train me not, sweet mermaid, with thy note,
Link: 3.2.45
To drown me in thy sister's flood of tears:
Link: 3.2.46
Sing, siren, for thyself and I will dote:
Link: 3.2.47
Spread o'er the silver waves thy golden hairs,
Link: 3.2.48
And as a bed I'll take them and there lie,
Link: 3.2.49
And in that glorious supposition think
Link: 3.2.50
He gains by death that hath such means to die:
Link: 3.2.51
Let Love, being light, be drowned if she sink!
Link: 3.2.52
LUCIANA
What, are you mad, that you do reason so?
Link: 3.2.53
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
Not mad, but mated; how, I do not know.
Link: 3.2.54
LUCIANA
It is a fault that springeth from your eye.
Link: 3.2.55
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
For gazing on your beams, fair sun, being by.
Link: 3.2.56
LUCIANA
Gaze where you should, and that will clear your sight.
Link: 3.2.57
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
As good to wink, sweet love, as look on night.
Link: 3.2.58
LUCIANA
Why call you me love? call my sister so.
Link: 3.2.59
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
Thy sister's sister.
Link: 3.2.60
LUCIANA
That's my sister.
Link: 3.2.61
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
No;
Link: 3.2.62
It is thyself, mine own self's better part,
Link: 3.2.63
Mine eye's clear eye, my dear heart's dearer heart,
Link: 3.2.64
My food, my fortune and my sweet hope's aim,
Link: 3.2.65
My sole earth's heaven and my heaven's claim.
Link: 3.2.66
LUCIANA
All this my sister is, or else should be.
Link: 3.2.67
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
Call thyself sister, sweet, for I am thee.
Link: 3.2.68
Thee will I love and with thee lead my life:
Link: 3.2.69
Thou hast no husband yet nor I no wife.
Link: 3.2.70
Give me thy hand.
Link: 3.2.71
LUCIANA
O, soft, air! hold you still:
Link: 3.2.72
I'll fetch my sister, to get her good will.
Link: 3.2.73
Exit
Enter DROMIO of Syracuse
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
Why, how now, Dromio! where runn'st thou so fast?
Link: 3.2.74
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
Do you know me, sir? am I Dromio? am I your man?
Link: 3.2.75
am I myself?
Link: 3.2.76
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
Thou art Dromio, thou art my man, thou art thyself.
Link: 3.2.77
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
I am an ass, I am a woman's man and besides myself.
Link: 3.2.78
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
Marry, sir, besides myself, I am due to a woman; one
Link: 3.2.79
that claims me, one that haunts me, one that will have me.
Link: 3.2.80
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
What claim lays she to thee?
Link: 3.2.81
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
Marry sir, such claim as you would lay to your
Link: 3.2.82
horse; and she would have me as a beast: not that, I
Link: 3.2.83
being a beast, she would have me; but that she,
Link: 3.2.84
being a very beastly creature, lays claim to me.
Link: 3.2.85
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
What is she?
Link: 3.2.86
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
A very reverent body; ay, such a one as a man may
Link: 3.2.87
not speak of without he say 'Sir-reverence.' I have
Link: 3.2.88
but lean luck in the match, and yet is she a
Link: 3.2.89
wondrous fat marriage.
Link: 3.2.90
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
How dost thou mean a fat marriage?
Link: 3.2.91
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
Marry, sir, she's the kitchen wench and all grease;
Link: 3.2.92
and I know not what use to put her to but to make a
Link: 3.2.93
lamp of her and run from her by her own light. I
Link: 3.2.94
warrant, her rags and the tallow in them will burn a
Link: 3.2.95
Poland winter: if she lives till doomsday,
Link: 3.2.96
she'll burn a week longer than the whole world.
Link: 3.2.97
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
What complexion is she of?
Link: 3.2.98
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
Swart, like my shoe, but her face nothing half so
Link: 3.2.99
clean kept: for why, she sweats; a man may go over
Link: 3.2.100
shoes in the grime of it.
Link: 3.2.101
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
That's a fault that water will mend.
Link: 3.2.102
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
No, sir, 'tis in grain; Noah's flood could not do it.
Link: 3.2.103
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
What's her name?
Link: 3.2.104
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
Nell, sir; but her name and three quarters, that's
Link: 3.2.105
an ell and three quarters, will not measure her from
Link: 3.2.106
hip to hip.
Link: 3.2.107
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
Then she bears some breadth?
Link: 3.2.108
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
No longer from head to foot than from hip to hip:
Link: 3.2.109
she is spherical, like a globe; I could find out
Link: 3.2.110
countries in her.
Link: 3.2.111
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
In what part of her body stands Ireland?
Link: 3.2.112
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
Marry, in her buttocks: I found it out by the bogs.
Link: 3.2.113
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
Where Scotland?
Link: 3.2.114
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
I found it by the barrenness; hard in the palm of the hand.
Link: 3.2.115
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
Where France?
Link: 3.2.116
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
In her forehead; armed and reverted, making war
Link: 3.2.117
against her heir.
Link: 3.2.118
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
Where England?
Link: 3.2.119
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
I looked for the chalky cliffs, but I could find no
Link: 3.2.120
whiteness in them; but I guess it stood in her chin,
Link: 3.2.121
by the salt rheum that ran between France and it.
Link: 3.2.122
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
Where Spain?
Link: 3.2.123
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
Faith, I saw it not; but I felt it hot in her breath.
Link: 3.2.124
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
Where America, the Indies?
Link: 3.2.125
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
Oh, sir, upon her nose all o'er embellished with
Link: 3.2.126
rubies, carbuncles, sapphires, declining their rich
Link: 3.2.127
aspect to the hot breath of Spain; who sent whole
Link: 3.2.128
armadoes of caracks to be ballast at her nose.
Link: 3.2.129
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
Where stood Belgia, the Netherlands?
Link: 3.2.130
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
Oh, sir, I did not look so low. To conclude, this
Link: 3.2.131
drudge, or diviner, laid claim to me, call'd me
Link: 3.2.132
Dromio; swore I was assured to her; told me what
Link: 3.2.133
privy marks I had about me, as, the mark of my
Link: 3.2.134
shoulder, the mole in my neck, the great wart on my
Link: 3.2.135
left arm, that I amazed ran from her as a witch:
Link: 3.2.136
And, I think, if my breast had not been made of
Link: 3.2.137
faith and my heart of steel,
Link: 3.2.138
She had transform'd me to a curtal dog and made
Link: 3.2.139
me turn i' the wheel.
Link: 3.2.140
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
Go hie thee presently, post to the road:
Link: 3.2.141
An if the wind blow any way from shore,
Link: 3.2.142
I will not harbour in this town to-night:
Link: 3.2.143
If any bark put forth, come to the mart,
Link: 3.2.144
Where I will walk till thou return to me.
Link: 3.2.145
If every one knows us and we know none,
Link: 3.2.146
'Tis time, I think, to trudge, pack and be gone.
Link: 3.2.147
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
As from a bear a man would run for life,
Link: 3.2.148
So fly I from her that would be my wife.
Link: 3.2.149
Exit
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
There's none but witches do inhabit here;
Link: 3.2.150
And therefore 'tis high time that I were hence.
Link: 3.2.151
She that doth call me husband, even my soul
Link: 3.2.152
Doth for a wife abhor. But her fair sister,
Link: 3.2.153
Possess'd with such a gentle sovereign grace,
Link: 3.2.154
Of such enchanting presence and discourse,
Link: 3.2.155
Hath almost made me traitor to myself:
Link: 3.2.156
But, lest myself be guilty to self-wrong,
Link: 3.2.157
I'll stop mine ears against the mermaid's song.
Link: 3.2.158
Enter ANGELO with the chain
ANGELO
Master Antipholus,--
Link: 3.2.159
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
Ay, that's my name.
Link: 3.2.160
ANGELO
I know it well, sir, lo, here is the chain.
Link: 3.2.161
I thought to have ta'en you at the Porpentine:
Link: 3.2.162
The chain unfinish'd made me stay thus long.
Link: 3.2.163
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
What is your will that I shall do with this?
Link: 3.2.164
ANGELO
What please yourself, sir: I have made it for you.
Link: 3.2.165
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
Made it for me, sir! I bespoke it not.
Link: 3.2.166
ANGELO
Not once, nor twice, but twenty times you have.
Link: 3.2.167
Go home with it and please your wife withal;
Link: 3.2.168
And soon at supper-time I'll visit you
Link: 3.2.169
And then receive my money for the chain.
Link: 3.2.170
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
I pray you, sir, receive the money now,
Link: 3.2.171
For fear you ne'er see chain nor money more.
Link: 3.2.172
ANGELO
You are a merry man, sir: fare you well.
Link: 3.2.173
Exit
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
What I should think of this, I cannot tell:
Link: 3.2.174
But this I think, there's no man is so vain
Link: 3.2.175
That would refuse so fair an offer'd chain.
Link: 3.2.176
I see a man here needs not live by shifts,
Link: 3.2.177
When in the streets he meets such golden gifts.
Link: 3.2.178
I'll to the mart, and there for Dromio stay
Link: 3.2.179
If any ship put out, then straight away.
Link: 3.2.180
Exit
Act IV
Act 4 of The Comedy of Errors follows the confusion and mishaps caused by the mistaken identity of the two sets of twin brothers. In this act, Antipholus of Ephesus, who is unaware that his twin brother and his servant are in the city, becomes frustrated and angry when everyone he meets claims to know him and demands money from him.
Meanwhile, Adriana, the wife of Antipholus of Ephesus, is convinced that her husband is having an affair with another woman and has him arrested. However, when Antipholus of Syracuse (the twin brother) arrives with Dromio of Syracuse, the confusion becomes even more intense. The two sets of twins are mistaken for each other, leading to a series of hilarious misunderstandings.
As the chaos continues, the Abbess (who is revealed to be the mother of the Antipholus twins) intervenes and reunites the brothers. The play ends with the revelation that the Abbess's husband (the father of the twins) had also been searching for them for many years.
SCENE I. A public place.
Act 4, Scene 1 of The Comedy of Errors opens with a conversation between the Duke of Ephesus and Aegeon. Aegeon, a merchant from Syracuse, is being sentenced to death for violating the law that forbids Syracusian merchants from entering Ephesus. The Duke is moved by Aegeon's sad story and gives him a day to raise the ransom money or face death. Aegeon's sons, Antipholus of Syracuse and his servant Dromio of Syracuse, arrive in Ephesus searching for their twin brothers who were lost at sea many years ago. They are mistaken for their counterparts, Antipholus of Ephesus and Dromio of Ephesus, and are welcomed by their friends and families. Antipholus of Syracuse falls in love with Adriana, the wife of Antipholus of Ephesus, and she mistakes him for her husband. She then locks him out of their home, believing him to be insane. In Scene 1 of Act 4, Antipholus of Ephesus and Dromio of Ephesus return home to find the doors locked and are denied entry by Adriana. They are confused by her behavior and wonder if they have been cursed. They encounter Antipholus of Syracuse and Dromio of Syracuse who they believe to be imposters and beat them. The confusion intensifies when Adriana's sister Luciana mistakes Antipholus of Syracuse for her brother-in-law and confesses her love for him. Antipholus of Syracuse, still believing himself to be Antipholus of Syracuse, is taken aback by her confession. The scene ends with Antipholus of Syracuse and Dromio of Syracuse being arrested for their supposed crimes. Aegeon appears, still searching for his sons, and is also arrested. The stage is set for the final act of the play where the twins are finally reunited and all misunderstandings are resolved.
Enter Second Merchant, ANGELO, and an Officer
Second Merchant
You know since Pentecost the sum is due,
Link: 4.1.1
And since I have not much importuned you;
Link: 4.1.2
Nor now I had not, but that I am bound
Link: 4.1.3
To Persia, and want guilders for my voyage:
Link: 4.1.4
Therefore make present satisfaction,
Link: 4.1.5
Or I'll attach you by this officer.
Link: 4.1.6
ANGELO
Even just the sum that I do owe to you
Link: 4.1.7
Is growing to me by Antipholus,
Link: 4.1.8
And in the instant that I met with you
Link: 4.1.9
He had of me a chain: at five o'clock
Link: 4.1.10
I shall receive the money for the same.
Link: 4.1.11
Pleaseth you walk with me down to his house,
Link: 4.1.12
I will discharge my bond and thank you too.
Link: 4.1.13
Enter ANTIPHOLUS of Ephesus and DROMIO of Ephesus from the courtezan's
Officer
That labour may you save: see where he comes.
Link: 4.1.14
ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
While I go to the goldsmith's house, go thou
Link: 4.1.15
And buy a rope's end: that will I bestow
Link: 4.1.16
Among my wife and her confederates,
Link: 4.1.17
For locking me out of my doors by day.
Link: 4.1.18
But, soft! I see the goldsmith. Get thee gone;
Link: 4.1.19
Buy thou a rope and bring it home to me.
Link: 4.1.20
DROMIO OF EPHESUS
I buy a thousand pound a year: I buy a rope.
Link: 4.1.21
Exit
ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
A man is well holp up that trusts to you:
Link: 4.1.22
I promised your presence and the chain;
Link: 4.1.23
But neither chain nor goldsmith came to me.
Link: 4.1.24
Belike you thought our love would last too long,
Link: 4.1.25
If it were chain'd together, and therefore came not.
Link: 4.1.26
ANGELO
Saving your merry humour, here's the note
Link: 4.1.27
How much your chain weighs to the utmost carat,
Link: 4.1.28
The fineness of the gold and chargeful fashion.
Link: 4.1.29
Which doth amount to three odd ducats more
Link: 4.1.30
Than I stand debted to this gentleman:
Link: 4.1.31
I pray you, see him presently discharged,
Link: 4.1.32
For he is bound to sea and stays but for it.
Link: 4.1.33
ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
I am not furnish'd with the present money;
Link: 4.1.34
Besides, I have some business in the town.
Link: 4.1.35
Good signior, take the stranger to my house
Link: 4.1.36
And with you take the chain and bid my wife
Link: 4.1.37
Disburse the sum on the receipt thereof:
Link: 4.1.38
Perchance I will be there as soon as you.
Link: 4.1.39
ANGELO
Then you will bring the chain to her yourself?
Link: 4.1.40
ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
No; bear it with you, lest I come not time enough.
Link: 4.1.41
ANGELO
Well, sir, I will. Have you the chain about you?
Link: 4.1.42
ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
An if I have not, sir, I hope you have;
Link: 4.1.43
Or else you may return without your money.
Link: 4.1.44
ANGELO
Nay, come, I pray you, sir, give me the chain:
Link: 4.1.45
Both wind and tide stays for this gentleman,
Link: 4.1.46
And I, to blame, have held him here too long.
Link: 4.1.47
ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
Good Lord! you use this dalliance to excuse
Link: 4.1.48
Your breach of promise to the Porpentine.
Link: 4.1.49
I should have chid you for not bringing it,
Link: 4.1.50
But, like a shrew, you first begin to brawl.
Link: 4.1.51
Second Merchant
The hour steals on; I pray you, sir, dispatch.
Link: 4.1.52
ANGELO
You hear how he importunes me;--the chain!
Link: 4.1.53
ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
Why, give it to my wife and fetch your money.
Link: 4.1.54
ANGELO
Come, come, you know I gave it you even now.
Link: 4.1.55
Either send the chain or send me by some token.
Link: 4.1.56
ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
Fie, now you run this humour out of breath,
Link: 4.1.57
where's the chain? I pray you, let me see it.
Link: 4.1.58
Second Merchant
My business cannot brook this dalliance.
Link: 4.1.59
Good sir, say whether you'll answer me or no:
Link: 4.1.60
If not, I'll leave him to the officer.
Link: 4.1.61
ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
I answer you! what should I answer you?
Link: 4.1.62
ANGELO
The money that you owe me for the chain.
Link: 4.1.63
ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
I owe you none till I receive the chain.
Link: 4.1.64
ANGELO
You know I gave it you half an hour since.
Link: 4.1.65
ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
You gave me none: you wrong me much to say so.
Link: 4.1.66
ANGELO
You wrong me more, sir, in denying it:
Link: 4.1.67
Consider how it stands upon my credit.
Link: 4.1.68
Second Merchant
Well, officer, arrest him at my suit.
Link: 4.1.69
Officer
I do; and charge you in the duke's name to obey me.
Link: 4.1.70
ANGELO
This touches me in reputation.
Link: 4.1.71
Either consent to pay this sum for me
Link: 4.1.72
Or I attach you by this officer.
Link: 4.1.73
ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
Consent to pay thee that I never had!
Link: 4.1.74
Arrest me, foolish fellow, if thou darest.
Link: 4.1.75
ANGELO
Here is thy fee; arrest him, officer,
Link: 4.1.76
I would not spare my brother in this case,
Link: 4.1.77
If he should scorn me so apparently.
Link: 4.1.78
Officer
I do arrest you, sir: you hear the suit.
Link: 4.1.79
ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
I do obey thee till I give thee bail.
Link: 4.1.80
But, sirrah, you shall buy this sport as dear
Link: 4.1.81
As all the metal in your shop will answer.
Link: 4.1.82
ANGELO
Sir, sir, I will have law in Ephesus,
Link: 4.1.83
To your notorious shame; I doubt it not.
Link: 4.1.84
Enter DROMIO of Syracuse, from the bay
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
Master, there is a bark of Epidamnum
Link: 4.1.85
That stays but till her owner comes aboard,
Link: 4.1.86
And then, sir, she bears away. Our fraughtage, sir,
Link: 4.1.87
I have convey'd aboard; and I have bought
Link: 4.1.88
The oil, the balsamum and aqua-vitae.
Link: 4.1.89
The ship is in her trim; the merry wind
Link: 4.1.90
Blows fair from land: they stay for nought at all
Link: 4.1.91
But for their owner, master, and yourself.
Link: 4.1.92
ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
How now! a madman! Why, thou peevish sheep,
Link: 4.1.93
What ship of Epidamnum stays for me?
Link: 4.1.94
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
A ship you sent me to, to hire waftage.
Link: 4.1.95
ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
Thou drunken slave, I sent thee for a rope;
Link: 4.1.96
And told thee to what purpose and what end.
Link: 4.1.97
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
You sent me for a rope's end as soon:
Link: 4.1.98
You sent me to the bay, sir, for a bark.
Link: 4.1.99
ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
I will debate this matter at more leisure
Link: 4.1.100
And teach your ears to list me with more heed.
Link: 4.1.101
To Adriana, villain, hie thee straight:
Link: 4.1.102
Give her this key, and tell her, in the desk
Link: 4.1.103
That's cover'd o'er with Turkish tapestry,
Link: 4.1.104
There is a purse of ducats; let her send it:
Link: 4.1.105
Tell her I am arrested in the street
Link: 4.1.106
And that shall bail me; hie thee, slave, be gone!
Link: 4.1.107
On, officer, to prison till it come.
Link: 4.1.108
Exeunt Second Merchant, Angelo, Officer, and Antipholus of Ephesus
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
To Adriana! that is where we dined,
Link: 4.1.109
Where Dowsabel did claim me for her husband:
Link: 4.1.110
She is too big, I hope, for me to compass.
Link: 4.1.111
Thither I must, although against my will,
Link: 4.1.112
For servants must their masters' minds fulfil.
Link: 4.1.113
Exit
SCENE II. The house of ANTIPHOLUS of Ephesus.
Scene 2 of Act 4 takes place in a public square, where Antipholus of Syracuse and his servant, Dromio of Syracuse, are being pursued by Angelo, a goldsmith, and a group of other merchants. They accuse Antipholus of Syracuse of owing them money for a chain he supposedly ordered from Angelo. Antipholus denies ever ordering a chain and refuses to pay for it. Angelo becomes angry and threatens to have him arrested. Meanwhile, Antipholus of Ephesus, who is unaware of his twin brother's presence in the city, arrives on the scene with his own servant, Dromio of Ephesus. He is surprised to see Angelo and the other merchants confronting his brother, and he mistakes him for his own servant. Antipholus of Syracuse is confused by the mix-up and denies knowing Antipholus of Ephesus or the merchants. This only angers Angelo and the other merchants further, and they begin to chase after Antipholus of Syracuse and Dromio of Syracuse. As they are running away, Antipholus of Ephesus runs into his own wife, Adriana, and her sister, Luciana. He is upset that they are out in public unaccompanied and accuses them of being unfaithful. Adriana is confused by his behavior and tries to calm him down, but he insists on leaving with her immediately. Meanwhile, Antipholus of Syracuse and Dromio of Syracuse hide in a nearby abbey to avoid being caught by the angry merchants.
Enter ADRIANA and LUCIANA
ADRIANA
Ah, Luciana, did he tempt thee so?
Link: 4.2.1
Mightst thou perceive austerely in his eye
Link: 4.2.2
That he did plead in earnest? yea or no?
Link: 4.2.3
Look'd he or red or pale, or sad or merrily?
Link: 4.2.4
What observation madest thou in this case
Link: 4.2.5
Of his heart's meteors tilting in his face?
Link: 4.2.6
LUCIANA
First he denied you had in him no right.
Link: 4.2.7
ADRIANA
He meant he did me none; the more my spite.
Link: 4.2.8
LUCIANA
Then swore he that he was a stranger here.
Link: 4.2.9
ADRIANA
And true he swore, though yet forsworn he were.
Link: 4.2.10
LUCIANA
Then pleaded I for you.
Link: 4.2.11
ADRIANA
And what said he?
Link: 4.2.12
LUCIANA
That love I begg'd for you he begg'd of me.
Link: 4.2.13
ADRIANA
With what persuasion did he tempt thy love?
Link: 4.2.14
LUCIANA
With words that in an honest suit might move.
Link: 4.2.15
First he did praise my beauty, then my speech.
Link: 4.2.16
ADRIANA
Didst speak him fair?
Link: 4.2.17
LUCIANA
Have patience, I beseech.
Link: 4.2.18
ADRIANA
I cannot, nor I will not, hold me still;
Link: 4.2.19
My tongue, though not my heart, shall have his will.
Link: 4.2.20
He is deformed, crooked, old and sere,
Link: 4.2.21
Ill-faced, worse bodied, shapeless everywhere;
Link: 4.2.22
Vicious, ungentle, foolish, blunt, unkind;
Link: 4.2.23
Stigmatical in making, worse in mind.
Link: 4.2.24
LUCIANA
Who would be jealous then of such a one?
Link: 4.2.25
No evil lost is wail'd when it is gone.
Link: 4.2.26
ADRIANA
Ah, but I think him better than I say,
Link: 4.2.27
And yet would herein others' eyes were worse.
Link: 4.2.28
Far from her nest the lapwing cries away:
Link: 4.2.29
My heart prays for him, though my tongue do curse.
Link: 4.2.30
Enter DROMIO of Syracuse
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
Here! go; the desk, the purse! sweet, now, make haste.
Link: 4.2.31
LUCIANA
How hast thou lost thy breath?
Link: 4.2.32
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
By running fast.
Link: 4.2.33
ADRIANA
Where is thy master, Dromio? is he well?
Link: 4.2.34
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
No, he's in Tartar limbo, worse than hell.
Link: 4.2.35
A devil in an everlasting garment hath him;
Link: 4.2.36
One whose hard heart is button'd up with steel;
Link: 4.2.37
A fiend, a fury, pitiless and rough;
Link: 4.2.38
A wolf, nay, worse, a fellow all in buff;
Link: 4.2.39
A back-friend, a shoulder-clapper, one that
Link: 4.2.40
countermands
Link: 4.2.41
The passages of alleys, creeks and narrow lands;
Link: 4.2.42
A hound that runs counter and yet draws dryfoot well;
Link: 4.2.43
One that before the judgement carries poor souls to hell.
Link: 4.2.44
ADRIANA
Why, man, what is the matter?
Link: 4.2.45
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
I do not know the matter: he is 'rested on the case.
Link: 4.2.46
ADRIANA
What, is he arrested? Tell me at whose suit.
Link: 4.2.47
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
I know not at whose suit he is arrested well;
Link: 4.2.48
But he's in a suit of buff which 'rested him, that can I tell.
Link: 4.2.49
Will you send him, mistress, redemption, the money in his desk?
Link: 4.2.50
ADRIANA
Go fetch it, sister.
Link: 4.2.51
This I wonder at,
Link: 4.2.52
That he, unknown to me, should be in debt.
Link: 4.2.53
Tell me, was he arrested on a band?
Link: 4.2.54
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
Not on a band, but on a stronger thing;
Link: 4.2.55
A chain, a chain! Do you not hear it ring?
Link: 4.2.56
ADRIANA
What, the chain?
Link: 4.2.57
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
No, no, the bell: 'tis time that I were gone:
Link: 4.2.58
It was two ere I left him, and now the clock
Link: 4.2.59
strikes one.
Link: 4.2.60
ADRIANA
The hours come back! that did I never hear.
Link: 4.2.61
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
O, yes; if any hour meet a sergeant, a' turns back for
Link: 4.2.62
very fear.
Link: 4.2.63
ADRIANA
As if Time were in debt! how fondly dost thou reason!
Link: 4.2.64
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
Time is a very bankrupt, and owes more than he's
Link: 4.2.65
worth, to season.
Link: 4.2.66
Nay, he's a thief too: have you not heard men say
Link: 4.2.67
That Time comes stealing on by night and day?
Link: 4.2.68
If Time be in debt and theft, and a sergeant in the way,
Link: 4.2.69
Hath he not reason to turn back an hour in a day?
Link: 4.2.70
Re-enter LUCIANA with a purse
ADRIANA
Go, Dromio; there's the money, bear it straight;
Link: 4.2.71
And bring thy master home immediately.
Link: 4.2.72
Come, sister: I am press'd down with conceit--
Link: 4.2.73
Conceit, my comfort and my injury.
Link: 4.2.74
Exeunt
SCENE III. A public place.
In Scene 3 of Act 4, a man named Angelo is trying to collect a debt from Antipholus of Ephesus. Antipholus denies owing him any money and accuses Angelo of being a fraudster. Meanwhile, Dromio of Ephesus arrives and tells Antipholus that he has found a ship ready to sail back to their home city. Antipholus orders Dromio to go and buy provisions for the journey. Angelo, now convinced that Antipholus is intentionally avoiding payment, decides to take matters into his own hands and goes to the local court to file a complaint. There, he encounters Antipholus of Syracuse, who is mistaken for Antipholus of Ephesus and is arrested by the officers. Meanwhile, Adriana and Luciana, the wives of the two Antipholus brothers, are worried about their husbands' whereabouts and decide to go out and search for them. They encounter Dromio of Syracuse, who mistakes them for his own mistress and sister-in-law, and tells them that their husbands are at a nearby inn. The women go to the inn and confront Antipholus of Syracuse, who denies knowing them. Confusion and chaos ensue as the characters continue to mistake each other for their counterparts. Finally, the Abbess, who is revealed to be the long-lost mother of the Antipholus brothers, arrives and clears up the confusion. The play ends with the characters reconciling and celebrating their newfound family ties.
Enter ANTIPHOLUS of Syracuse
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
There's not a man I meet but doth salute me
Link: 4.3.1
As if I were their well-acquainted friend;
Link: 4.3.2
And every one doth call me by my name.
Link: 4.3.3
Some tender money to me; some invite me;
Link: 4.3.4
Some other give me thanks for kindnesses;
Link: 4.3.5
Some offer me commodities to buy:
Link: 4.3.6
Even now a tailor call'd me in his shop
Link: 4.3.7
And show'd me silks that he had bought for me,
Link: 4.3.8
And therewithal took measure of my body.
Link: 4.3.9
Sure, these are but imaginary wiles
Link: 4.3.10
And Lapland sorcerers inhabit here.
Link: 4.3.11
Enter DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
Master, here's the gold you sent me for. What, have
Link: 4.3.12
you got the picture of old Adam new-apparelled?
Link: 4.3.13
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
What gold is this? what Adam dost thou mean?
Link: 4.3.14
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
Not that Adam that kept the Paradise but that Adam
Link: 4.3.15
that keeps the prison: he that goes in the calf's
Link: 4.3.16
skin that was killed for the Prodigal; he that came
Link: 4.3.17
behind you, sir, like an evil angel, and bid you
Link: 4.3.18
forsake your liberty.
Link: 4.3.19
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
I understand thee not.
Link: 4.3.20
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
No? why, 'tis a plain case: he that went, like a
Link: 4.3.21
bass-viol, in a case of leather; the man, sir,
Link: 4.3.22
that, when gentlemen are tired, gives them a sob
Link: 4.3.23
and 'rests them; he, sir, that takes pity on decayed
Link: 4.3.24
men and gives them suits of durance; he that sets up
Link: 4.3.25
his rest to do more exploits with his mace than a
Link: 4.3.26
morris-pike.
Link: 4.3.27
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
What, thou meanest an officer?
Link: 4.3.28
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
Ay, sir, the sergeant of the band, he that brings
Link: 4.3.29
any man to answer it that breaks his band; one that
Link: 4.3.30
thinks a man always going to bed, and says, 'God
Link: 4.3.31
give you good rest!'
Link: 4.3.32
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
Well, sir, there rest in your foolery. Is there any
Link: 4.3.33
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
Why, sir, I brought you word an hour since that the
Link: 4.3.34
bark Expedition put forth to-night; and then were
Link: 4.3.35
you hindered by the sergeant, to tarry for the hoy
Link: 4.3.36
Delay. Here are the angels that you sent for to
Link: 4.3.37
deliver you.
Link: 4.3.38
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
The fellow is distract, and so am I;
Link: 4.3.39
And here we wander in illusions:
Link: 4.3.40
Some blessed power deliver us from hence!
Link: 4.3.41
Enter a Courtezan
Courtezan
Well met, well met, Master Antipholus.
Link: 4.3.42
I see, sir, you have found the goldsmith now:
Link: 4.3.43
Is that the chain you promised me to-day?
Link: 4.3.44
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
Satan, avoid! I charge thee, tempt me not.
Link: 4.3.45
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
Master, is this Mistress Satan?
Link: 4.3.46
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
It is the devil.
Link: 4.3.47
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
Nay, she is worse, she is the devil's dam; and here
Link: 4.3.48
she comes in the habit of a light wench: and thereof
Link: 4.3.49
comes that the wenches say 'God damn me;' that's as
Link: 4.3.50
much to say 'God make me a light wench.' It is
Link: 4.3.51
written, they appear to men like angels of light:
Link: 4.3.52
light is an effect of fire, and fire will burn;
Link: 4.3.53
ergo, light wenches will burn. Come not near her.
Link: 4.3.54
Courtezan
Your man and you are marvellous merry, sir.
Link: 4.3.55
Will you go with me? We'll mend our dinner here?
Link: 4.3.56
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
Master, if you do, expect spoon-meat; or bespeak a
Link: 4.3.57
long spoon.
Link: 4.3.58
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
Why, Dromio?
Link: 4.3.59
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
Marry, he must have a long spoon that must eat with
Link: 4.3.60
the devil.
Link: 4.3.61
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
Avoid then, fiend! what tell'st thou me of supping?
Link: 4.3.62
Thou art, as you are all, a sorceress:
Link: 4.3.63
I conjure thee to leave me and be gone.
Link: 4.3.64
Courtezan
Give me the ring of mine you had at dinner,
Link: 4.3.65
Or, for my diamond, the chain you promised,
Link: 4.3.66
And I'll be gone, sir, and not trouble you.
Link: 4.3.67
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
Some devils ask but the parings of one's nail,
Link: 4.3.68
A rush, a hair, a drop of blood, a pin,
Link: 4.3.69
A nut, a cherry-stone;
Link: 4.3.70
But she, more covetous, would have a chain.
Link: 4.3.71
Master, be wise: an if you give it her,
Link: 4.3.72
The devil will shake her chain and fright us with it.
Link: 4.3.73
Courtezan
I pray you, sir, my ring, or else the chain:
Link: 4.3.74
I hope you do not mean to cheat me so.
Link: 4.3.75
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
Avaunt, thou witch! Come, Dromio, let us go.
Link: 4.3.76
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
'Fly pride,' says the peacock: mistress, that you know.
Link: 4.3.77
Exeunt Antipholus of Syracuse and Dromio of Syracuse
Courtezan
Now, out of doubt Antipholus is mad,
Link: 4.3.78
Else would he never so demean himself.
Link: 4.3.79
A ring he hath of mine worth forty ducats,
Link: 4.3.80
And for the same he promised me a chain:
Link: 4.3.81
Both one and other he denies me now.
Link: 4.3.82
The reason that I gather he is mad,
Link: 4.3.83
Besides this present instance of his rage,
Link: 4.3.84
Is a mad tale he told to-day at dinner,
Link: 4.3.85
Of his own doors being shut against his entrance.
Link: 4.3.86
Belike his wife, acquainted with his fits,
Link: 4.3.87
On purpose shut the doors against his way.
Link: 4.3.88
My way is now to hie home to his house,
Link: 4.3.89
And tell his wife that, being lunatic,
Link: 4.3.90
He rush'd into my house and took perforce
Link: 4.3.91
My ring away. This course I fittest choose;
Link: 4.3.92
For forty ducats is too much to lose.
Link: 4.3.93
Exit
SCENE IV. A street.
Scene 4 of Act 4 begins with Antipholus of Ephesus, who is unaware that his twin brother is in town, being confronted by his wife Adriana and her sister Luciana. They accuse him of being unfaithful and neglectful of his duties as a husband. Antipholus denies the accusations and demands to see his house and his servant, Dromio of Ephesus. However, when Dromio of Syracuse appears instead, Antipholus of Ephesus becomes enraged and accuses him of being a witch. Dromio of Syracuse, confused and frightened, tries to explain that he is not the man Antipholus is looking for, but Antipholus refuses to believe him and beats him. Eventually, Antipholus of Syracuse (the twin brother of Antipholus of Ephesus) appears and is mistaken for his brother by Adriana and Luciana. He is taken to Antipholus of Ephesus' house, where he is greeted by a courtesan named Nell who is expecting payment for services rendered. Antipholus of Syracuse has no idea what she is talking about and tries to leave, but is detained by the arrival of Angelo, a goldsmith who claims that Antipholus of Ephesus owes him money. Antipholus of Syracuse denies owing Angelo any money and is bewildered by the situation. Dromio of Syracuse, who is also being mistaken for his twin, tries to explain the confusion but is dismissed as a madman. The scene ends with Antipholus of Syracuse and Dromio of Syracuse being arrested by a constable.
Enter ANTIPHOLUS of Ephesus and the Officer
ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
Fear me not, man; I will not break away:
Link: 4.4.1
I'll give thee, ere I leave thee, so much money,
Link: 4.4.2
To warrant thee, as I am 'rested for.
Link: 4.4.3
My wife is in a wayward mood to-day,
Link: 4.4.4
And will not lightly trust the messenger
Link: 4.4.5
That I should be attach'd in Ephesus,
Link: 4.4.6
I tell you, 'twill sound harshly in her ears.
Link: 4.4.7
Here comes my man; I think he brings the money.
Link: 4.4.8
How now, sir! have you that I sent you for?
Link: 4.4.9
DROMIO OF EPHESUS
Here's that, I warrant you, will pay them all.
Link: 4.4.10
ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
But where's the money?
Link: 4.4.11
DROMIO OF EPHESUS
Why, sir, I gave the money for the rope.
Link: 4.4.12
ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
Five hundred ducats, villain, for a rope?
Link: 4.4.13
DROMIO OF EPHESUS
I'll serve you, sir, five hundred at the rate.
Link: 4.4.14
ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
To what end did I bid thee hie thee home?
Link: 4.4.15
DROMIO OF EPHESUS
To a rope's-end, sir; and to that end am I returned.
Link: 4.4.16
ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
And to that end, sir, I will welcome you.
Link: 4.4.17
Beating him
Officer
Good sir, be patient.
Link: 4.4.18
DROMIO OF EPHESUS
Nay, 'tis for me to be patient; I am in adversity.
Link: 4.4.19
Officer
Good, now, hold thy tongue.
Link: 4.4.20
DROMIO OF EPHESUS
Nay, rather persuade him to hold his hands.
Link: 4.4.21
ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
Thou whoreson, senseless villain!
Link: 4.4.22
DROMIO OF EPHESUS
I would I were senseless, sir, that I might not feel
Link: 4.4.23
your blows.
Link: 4.4.24
DROMIO OF EPHESUS
I am an ass, indeed; you may prove it by my long
Link: 4.4.25
ears. I have served him from the hour of my
Link: 4.4.26
nativity to this instant, and have nothing at his
Link: 4.4.27
hands for my service but blows. When I am cold, he
Link: 4.4.28
heats me with beating; when I am warm, he cools me
Link: 4.4.29
with beating; I am waked with it when I sleep;
Link: 4.4.30
raised with it when I sit; driven out of doors with
Link: 4.4.31
it when I go from home; welcomed home with it when
Link: 4.4.32
I return; nay, I bear it on my shoulders, as a
Link: 4.4.33
beggar wont her brat; and, I think when he hath
Link: 4.4.34
lamed me, I shall beg with it from door to door.
Link: 4.4.35
ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
Come, go along; my wife is coming yonder.
Link: 4.4.36
Enter ADRIANA, LUCIANA, the Courtezan, and PINCH
DROMIO OF EPHESUS
Mistress, 'respice finem,' respect your end; or
Link: 4.4.37
rather, the prophecy like the parrot, 'beware the
Link: 4.4.38
rope's-end.'
Link: 4.4.39
ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
Wilt thou still talk?
Link: 4.4.40
Beating him
Courtezan
How say you now? is not your husband mad?
Link: 4.4.41
ADRIANA
His incivility confirms no less.
Link: 4.4.42
Good Doctor Pinch, you are a conjurer;
Link: 4.4.43
Establish him in his true sense again,
Link: 4.4.44
And I will please you what you will demand.
Link: 4.4.45
LUCIANA
Alas, how fiery and how sharp he looks!
Link: 4.4.46
Courtezan
Mark how he trembles in his ecstasy!
Link: 4.4.47
PINCH
Give me your hand and let me feel your pulse.
Link: 4.4.48
ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
There is my hand, and let it feel your ear.
Link: 4.4.49
Striking him
PINCH
I charge thee, Satan, housed within this man,
Link: 4.4.50
To yield possession to my holy prayers
Link: 4.4.51
And to thy state of darkness hie thee straight:
Link: 4.4.52
I conjure thee by all the saints in heaven!
Link: 4.4.53
ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
Peace, doting wizard, peace! I am not mad.
Link: 4.4.54
ADRIANA
O, that thou wert not, poor distressed soul!
Link: 4.4.55
ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
You minion, you, are these your customers?
Link: 4.4.56
Did this companion with the saffron face
Link: 4.4.57
Revel and feast it at my house to-day,
Link: 4.4.58
Whilst upon me the guilty doors were shut
Link: 4.4.59
And I denied to enter in my house?
Link: 4.4.60
ADRIANA
O husband, God doth know you dined at home;
Link: 4.4.61
Where would you had remain'd until this time,
Link: 4.4.62
Free from these slanders and this open shame!
Link: 4.4.63
ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
Dined at home! Thou villain, what sayest thou?
Link: 4.4.64
DROMIO OF EPHESUS
Sir, sooth to say, you did not dine at home.
Link: 4.4.65
ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
Were not my doors lock'd up and I shut out?
Link: 4.4.66
DROMIO OF EPHESUS
Perdie, your doors were lock'd and you shut out.
Link: 4.4.67
ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
And did not she herself revile me there?
Link: 4.4.68
DROMIO OF EPHESUS
Sans fable, she herself reviled you there.
Link: 4.4.69
ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
Did not her kitchen-maid rail, taunt, and scorn me?
Link: 4.4.70
DROMIO OF EPHESUS
Certes, she did; the kitchen-vestal scorn'd you.
Link: 4.4.71
ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
And did not I in rage depart from thence?
Link: 4.4.72
DROMIO OF EPHESUS
In verity you did; my bones bear witness,
Link: 4.4.73
That since have felt the vigour of his rage.
Link: 4.4.74
ADRIANA
Is't good to soothe him in these contraries?
Link: 4.4.75
PINCH
It is no shame: the fellow finds his vein,
Link: 4.4.76
And yielding to him humours well his frenzy.
Link: 4.4.77
ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
Thou hast suborn'd the goldsmith to arrest me.
Link: 4.4.78
ADRIANA
Alas, I sent you money to redeem you,
Link: 4.4.79
By Dromio here, who came in haste for it.
Link: 4.4.80
DROMIO OF EPHESUS
Money by me! heart and goodwill you might;
Link: 4.4.81
But surely master, not a rag of money.
Link: 4.4.82
ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
Went'st not thou to her for a purse of ducats?
Link: 4.4.83
ADRIANA
He came to me and I deliver'd it.
Link: 4.4.84
LUCIANA
And I am witness with her that she did.
Link: 4.4.85
DROMIO OF EPHESUS
God and the rope-maker bear me witness
Link: 4.4.86
That I was sent for nothing but a rope!
Link: 4.4.87
PINCH
Mistress, both man and master is possess'd;
Link: 4.4.88
I know it by their pale and deadly looks:
Link: 4.4.89
They must be bound and laid in some dark room.
Link: 4.4.90
ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
Say, wherefore didst thou lock me forth to-day?
Link: 4.4.91
And why dost thou deny the bag of gold?
Link: 4.4.92
ADRIANA
I did not, gentle husband, lock thee forth.
Link: 4.4.93
DROMIO OF EPHESUS
And, gentle master, I received no gold;
Link: 4.4.94
But I confess, sir, that we were lock'd out.
Link: 4.4.95
ADRIANA
Dissembling villain, thou speak'st false in both.
Link: 4.4.96
ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
Dissembling harlot, thou art false in all;
Link: 4.4.97
And art confederate with a damned pack
Link: 4.4.98
To make a loathsome abject scorn of me:
Link: 4.4.99
But with these nails I'll pluck out these false eyes
Link: 4.4.100
That would behold in me this shameful sport.
Link: 4.4.101
Enter three or four, and offer to bind him. He strives
ADRIANA
O, bind him, bind him! let him not come near me.
Link: 4.4.102
PINCH
More company! The fiend is strong within him.
Link: 4.4.103
LUCIANA
Ay me, poor man, how pale and wan he looks!
Link: 4.4.104
ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
What, will you murder me? Thou gaoler, thou,
Link: 4.4.105
I am thy prisoner: wilt thou suffer them
Link: 4.4.106
To make a rescue?
Link: 4.4.107
Officer
Masters, let him go
Link: 4.4.108
He is my prisoner, and you shall not have him.
Link: 4.4.109
PINCH
Go bind this man, for he is frantic too.
Link: 4.4.110
They offer to bind Dromio of Ephesus
ADRIANA
What wilt thou do, thou peevish officer?
Link: 4.4.111
Hast thou delight to see a wretched man
Link: 4.4.112
Do outrage and displeasure to himself?
Link: 4.4.113
Officer
He is my prisoner: if I let him go,
Link: 4.4.114
The debt he owes will be required of me.
Link: 4.4.115
ADRIANA
I will discharge thee ere I go from thee:
Link: 4.4.116
Bear me forthwith unto his creditor,
Link: 4.4.117
And, knowing how the debt grows, I will pay it.
Link: 4.4.118
Good master doctor, see him safe convey'd
Link: 4.4.119
Home to my house. O most unhappy day!
Link: 4.4.120
ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
O most unhappy strumpet!
Link: 4.4.121
DROMIO OF EPHESUS
Master, I am here entered in bond for you.
Link: 4.4.122
ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
Out on thee, villain! wherefore dost thou mad me?
Link: 4.4.123
DROMIO OF EPHESUS
Will you be bound for nothing? be mad, good master:
Link: 4.4.124
cry 'The devil!'
Link: 4.4.125
LUCIANA
God help, poor souls, how idly do they talk!
Link: 4.4.126
ADRIANA
Go bear him hence. Sister, go you with me.
Link: 4.4.127
Say now, whose suit is he arrested at?
Link: 4.4.128
Officer
One Angelo, a goldsmith: do you know him?
Link: 4.4.129
ADRIANA
I know the man. What is the sum he owes?
Link: 4.4.130
Officer
Two hundred ducats.
Link: 4.4.131
ADRIANA
Say, how grows it due?
Link: 4.4.132
Officer
Due for a chain your husband had of him.
Link: 4.4.133
ADRIANA
He did bespeak a chain for me, but had it not.
Link: 4.4.134
Courtezan
When as your husband all in rage to-day
Link: 4.4.135
Came to my house and took away my ring--
Link: 4.4.136
The ring I saw upon his finger now--
Link: 4.4.137
Straight after did I meet him with a chain.
Link: 4.4.138
ADRIANA
It may be so, but I did never see it.
Link: 4.4.139
Come, gaoler, bring me where the goldsmith is:
Link: 4.4.140
I long to know the truth hereof at large.
Link: 4.4.141
Enter ANTIPHOLUS of Syracuse with his rapier drawn, and DROMIO of Syracuse
LUCIANA
God, for thy mercy! they are loose again.
Link: 4.4.142
ADRIANA
And come with naked swords.
Link: 4.4.143
Let's call more help to have them bound again.
Link: 4.4.144
Officer
Away! they'll kill us.
Link: 4.4.145
Exeunt all but Antipholus of Syracuse and Dromio of Syracuse
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
I see these witches are afraid of swords.
Link: 4.4.146
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
She that would be your wife now ran from you.
Link: 4.4.147
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
Come to the Centaur; fetch our stuff from thence:
Link: 4.4.148
I long that we were safe and sound aboard.
Link: 4.4.149
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
Faith, stay here this night; they will surely do us
Link: 4.4.150
no harm: you saw they speak us fair, give us gold:
Link: 4.4.151
methinks they are such a gentle nation that, but for
Link: 4.4.152
the mountain of mad flesh that claims marriage of
Link: 4.4.153
me, I could find in my heart to stay here still and
Link: 4.4.154
turn witch.
Link: 4.4.155
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
I will not stay to-night for all the town;
Link: 4.4.156
Therefore away, to get our stuff aboard.
Link: 4.4.157
Exeunt
Act V
Act 5 of The Comedy of Errors begins with the Duke of Ephesus sentencing Egeon to death for illegally entering the city. However, Antipholus of Syracuse and his servant Dromio of Syracuse arrive and reveal their true identities, causing confusion and chaos. The Duke orders everyone to calm down and listen to their stories.
Antipholus of Syracuse explains that he and his servant Dromio were separated from their twin brothers years ago and have been searching for them ever since. He also reveals that he has fallen in love with Luciana, the sister of his brother's wife Adriana. Meanwhile, Antipholus of Ephesus and his servant Dromio of Ephesus arrive on the scene, causing even more confusion.
It is eventually revealed that the twin brothers were both named Antipholus and the twin servants were both named Dromio. The Duke is amazed by their story and pardons Egeon. Antipholus of Syracuse and Luciana confess their love for each other, while Antipholus of Ephesus is reconciled with his wife Adriana.
The play ends with a joyful reunion between the two sets of twins and a celebration of their newfound family ties.
SCENE I. A street before a Priory.
Scene 1 of Act 5 begins with the Duke of Ephesus discussing with his counselor, Egeon, the possibility of pardoning him. Egeon had been sentenced to death for entering Ephesus, a city that was at war with his hometown, Syracuse. The Duke reveals that he has received a letter from the Duke of Syracuse, who is also named Egeon, asking for his release. The Duke of Ephesus decides to grant Egeon's pardon and sends him on his way. As Egeon leaves, the Duke's wife, Adriana, enters with her sister, Luciana. Adriana is distressed because her husband, Antipholus of Ephesus, has been acting strangely and has been avoiding her. She believes that he is having an affair with another woman. Luciana tries to comfort her and advises her to be more loving and understanding towards her husband. Meanwhile, Antipholus of Syracuse and his servant, Dromio of Syracuse, are wandering around the city trying to find their twin brothers, Antipholus of Ephesus and Dromio of Ephesus. They are unaware that their twins are also in the city and that their presence is causing confusion and chaos among the people of Ephesus. As Antipholus of Syracuse and Dromio of Syracuse continue their search, they encounter Adriana, who mistakes Antipholus of Syracuse for her husband. She invites him to come home with her, but he declines. Adriana is hurt and angry, and she accuses him of being unfaithful. Antipholus of Syracuse is confused by her accusations and decides to leave. As the scene comes to a close, Antipholus of Ephesus and Dromio of Ephesus enter, but they are not alone. They are accompanied by their twin brothers, Antipholus of Syracuse and Dromio of Syracuse. The confusion and misunderstandings are finally resolved, and the characters are reunited with their true identities.
Enter Second Merchant and ANGELO
ANGELO
I am sorry, sir, that I have hinder'd you;
Link: 5.1.1
But, I protest, he had the chain of me,
Link: 5.1.2
Though most dishonestly he doth deny it.
Link: 5.1.3
Second Merchant
How is the man esteemed here in the city?
Link: 5.1.4
ANGELO
Of very reverend reputation, sir,
Link: 5.1.5
Of credit infinite, highly beloved,
Link: 5.1.6
Second to none that lives here in the city:
Link: 5.1.7
His word might bear my wealth at any time.
Link: 5.1.8
Second Merchant
Speak softly; yonder, as I think, he walks.
Link: 5.1.9
Enter ANTIPHOLUS of Syracuse and DROMIO of Syracuse
ANGELO
'Tis so; and that self chain about his neck
Link: 5.1.10
Which he forswore most monstrously to have.
Link: 5.1.11
Good sir, draw near to me, I'll speak to him.
Link: 5.1.12
Signior Antipholus, I wonder much
Link: 5.1.13
That you would put me to this shame and trouble;
Link: 5.1.14
And, not without some scandal to yourself,
Link: 5.1.15
With circumstance and oaths so to deny
Link: 5.1.16
This chain which now you wear so openly:
Link: 5.1.17
Beside the charge, the shame, imprisonment,
Link: 5.1.18
You have done wrong to this my honest friend,
Link: 5.1.19
Who, but for staying on our controversy,
Link: 5.1.20
Had hoisted sail and put to sea to-day:
Link: 5.1.21
This chain you had of me; can you deny it?
Link: 5.1.22
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
I think I had; I never did deny it.
Link: 5.1.23
Second Merchant
Yes, that you did, sir, and forswore it too.
Link: 5.1.24
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
Who heard me to deny it or forswear it?
Link: 5.1.25
Second Merchant
These ears of mine, thou know'st did hear thee.
Link: 5.1.26
Fie on thee, wretch! 'tis pity that thou livest
Link: 5.1.27
To walk where any honest man resort.
Link: 5.1.28
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
Thou art a villain to impeach me thus:
Link: 5.1.29
I'll prove mine honour and mine honesty
Link: 5.1.30
Against thee presently, if thou darest stand.
Link: 5.1.31
Second Merchant
I dare, and do defy thee for a villain.
Link: 5.1.32
They draw
Enter ADRIANA, LUCIANA, the Courtezan, and others
ADRIANA
Hold, hurt him not, for God's sake! he is mad.
Link: 5.1.33
Some get within him, take his sword away:
Link: 5.1.34
Bind Dromio too, and bear them to my house.
Link: 5.1.35
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
Run, master, run; for God's sake, take a house!
Link: 5.1.36
This is some priory. In, or we are spoil'd!
Link: 5.1.37
Exeunt Antipholus of Syracuse and Dromio of Syracuse to the Priory
Enter the Lady Abbess, AEMILIA
AEMELIA
Be quiet, people. Wherefore throng you hither?
Link: 5.1.38
ADRIANA
To fetch my poor distracted husband hence.
Link: 5.1.39
Let us come in, that we may bind him fast
Link: 5.1.40
And bear him home for his recovery.
Link: 5.1.41
ANGELO
I knew he was not in his perfect wits.
Link: 5.1.42
Second Merchant
I am sorry now that I did draw on him.
Link: 5.1.43
AEMELIA
How long hath this possession held the man?
Link: 5.1.44
ADRIANA
This week he hath been heavy, sour, sad,
Link: 5.1.45
And much different from the man he was;
Link: 5.1.46
But till this afternoon his passion
Link: 5.1.47
Ne'er brake into extremity of rage.
Link: 5.1.48
AEMELIA
Hath he not lost much wealth by wreck of sea?
Link: 5.1.49
Buried some dear friend? Hath not else his eye
Link: 5.1.50
Stray'd his affection in unlawful love?
Link: 5.1.51
A sin prevailing much in youthful men,
Link: 5.1.52
Who give their eyes the liberty of gazing.
Link: 5.1.53
Which of these sorrows is he subject to?
Link: 5.1.54
ADRIANA
To none of these, except it be the last;
Link: 5.1.55
Namely, some love that drew him oft from home.
Link: 5.1.56
AEMELIA
You should for that have reprehended him.
Link: 5.1.57
ADRIANA
Why, so I did.
Link: 5.1.58
AEMELIA
Ay, but not rough enough.
Link: 5.1.59
ADRIANA
As roughly as my modesty would let me.
Link: 5.1.60
AEMELIA
Haply, in private.
Link: 5.1.61
ADRIANA
And in assemblies too.
Link: 5.1.62
AEMELIA
Ay, but not enough.
Link: 5.1.63
ADRIANA
It was the copy of our conference:
Link: 5.1.64
In bed he slept not for my urging it;
Link: 5.1.65
At board he fed not for my urging it;
Link: 5.1.66
Alone, it was the subject of my theme;
Link: 5.1.67
In company I often glanced it;
Link: 5.1.68
Still did I tell him it was vile and bad.
Link: 5.1.69
AEMELIA
And thereof came it that the man was mad.
Link: 5.1.70
The venom clamours of a jealous woman
Link: 5.1.71
Poisons more deadly than a mad dog's tooth.
Link: 5.1.72
It seems his sleeps were hinder'd by thy railing,
Link: 5.1.73
And therefore comes it that his head is light.
Link: 5.1.74
Thou say'st his meat was sauced with thy upbraidings:
Link: 5.1.75
Unquiet meals make ill digestions;
Link: 5.1.76
Thereof the raging fire of fever bred;
Link: 5.1.77
And what's a fever but a fit of madness?
Link: 5.1.78
Thou say'st his sports were hinderd by thy brawls:
Link: 5.1.79
Sweet recreation barr'd, what doth ensue
Link: 5.1.80
But moody and dull melancholy,
Link: 5.1.81
Kinsman to grim and comfortless despair,
Link: 5.1.82
And at her heels a huge infectious troop
Link: 5.1.83
Of pale distemperatures and foes to life?
Link: 5.1.84
In food, in sport and life-preserving rest
Link: 5.1.85
To be disturb'd, would mad or man or beast:
Link: 5.1.86
The consequence is then thy jealous fits
Link: 5.1.87
Have scared thy husband from the use of wits.
Link: 5.1.88
LUCIANA
She never reprehended him but mildly,
Link: 5.1.89
When he demean'd himself rough, rude and wildly.
Link: 5.1.90
Why bear you these rebukes and answer not?
Link: 5.1.91
ADRIANA
She did betray me to my own reproof.
Link: 5.1.92
Good people enter and lay hold on him.
Link: 5.1.93
AEMELIA
No, not a creature enters in my house.
Link: 5.1.94
ADRIANA
Then let your servants bring my husband forth.
Link: 5.1.95
AEMELIA
Neither: he took this place for sanctuary,
Link: 5.1.96
And it shall privilege him from your hands
Link: 5.1.97
Till I have brought him to his wits again,
Link: 5.1.98
Or lose my labour in assaying it.
Link: 5.1.99
ADRIANA
I will attend my husband, be his nurse,
Link: 5.1.100
Diet his sickness, for it is my office,
Link: 5.1.101
And will have no attorney but myself;
Link: 5.1.102
And therefore let me have him home with me.
Link: 5.1.103
AEMELIA
Be patient; for I will not let him stir
Link: 5.1.104
Till I have used the approved means I have,
Link: 5.1.105
With wholesome syrups, drugs and holy prayers,
Link: 5.1.106
To make of him a formal man again:
Link: 5.1.107
It is a branch and parcel of mine oath,
Link: 5.1.108
A charitable duty of my order.
Link: 5.1.109
Therefore depart and leave him here with me.
Link: 5.1.110
ADRIANA
I will not hence and leave my husband here:
Link: 5.1.111
And ill it doth beseem your holiness
Link: 5.1.112
To separate the husband and the wife.
Link: 5.1.113
AEMELIA
Be quiet and depart: thou shalt not have him.
Link: 5.1.114
Exit
LUCIANA
Complain unto the duke of this indignity.
Link: 5.1.115
ADRIANA
Come, go: I will fall prostrate at his feet
Link: 5.1.116
And never rise until my tears and prayers
Link: 5.1.117
Have won his grace to come in person hither
Link: 5.1.118
And take perforce my husband from the abbess.
Link: 5.1.119
Second Merchant
By this, I think, the dial points at five:
Link: 5.1.120
Anon, I'm sure, the duke himself in person
Link: 5.1.121
Comes this way to the melancholy vale,
Link: 5.1.122
The place of death and sorry execution,
Link: 5.1.123
Behind the ditches of the abbey here.
Link: 5.1.124
ANGELO
Upon what cause?
Link: 5.1.125
Second Merchant
To see a reverend Syracusian merchant,
Link: 5.1.126
Who put unluckily into this bay
Link: 5.1.127
Against the laws and statutes of this town,
Link: 5.1.128
Beheaded publicly for his offence.
Link: 5.1.129
ANGELO
See where they come: we will behold his death.
Link: 5.1.130
LUCIANA
Kneel to the duke before he pass the abbey.
Link: 5.1.131
Enter DUKE SOLINUS, attended; AEGEON bareheaded; with the Headsman and other Officers
DUKE SOLINUS
Yet once again proclaim it publicly,
Link: 5.1.132
If any friend will pay the sum for him,
Link: 5.1.133
He shall not die; so much we tender him.
Link: 5.1.134
ADRIANA
Justice, most sacred duke, against the abbess!
Link: 5.1.135
DUKE SOLINUS
She is a virtuous and a reverend lady:
Link: 5.1.136
It cannot be that she hath done thee wrong.
Link: 5.1.137
ADRIANA
May it please your grace, Antipholus, my husband,
Link: 5.1.138
Whom I made lord of me and all I had,
Link: 5.1.139
At your important letters,--this ill day
Link: 5.1.140
A most outrageous fit of madness took him;
Link: 5.1.141
That desperately he hurried through the street,
Link: 5.1.142
With him his bondman, all as mad as he--
Link: 5.1.143
Doing displeasure to the citizens
Link: 5.1.144
By rushing in their houses, bearing thence
Link: 5.1.145
Rings, jewels, any thing his rage did like.
Link: 5.1.146
Once did I get him bound and sent him home,
Link: 5.1.147
Whilst to take order for the wrongs I went,
Link: 5.1.148
That here and there his fury had committed.
Link: 5.1.149
Anon, I wot not by what strong escape,
Link: 5.1.150
He broke from those that had the guard of him;
Link: 5.1.151
And with his mad attendant and himself,
Link: 5.1.152
Each one with ireful passion, with drawn swords,
Link: 5.1.153
Met us again and madly bent on us,
Link: 5.1.154
Chased us away; till, raising of more aid,
Link: 5.1.155
We came again to bind them. Then they fled
Link: 5.1.156
Into this abbey, whither we pursued them:
Link: 5.1.157
And here the abbess shuts the gates on us
Link: 5.1.158
And will not suffer us to fetch him out,
Link: 5.1.159
Nor send him forth that we may bear him hence.
Link: 5.1.160
Therefore, most gracious duke, with thy command
Link: 5.1.161
Let him be brought forth and borne hence for help.
Link: 5.1.162
DUKE SOLINUS
Long since thy husband served me in my wars,
Link: 5.1.163
And I to thee engaged a prince's word,
Link: 5.1.164
When thou didst make him master of thy bed,
Link: 5.1.165
To do him all the grace and good I could.
Link: 5.1.166
Go, some of you, knock at the abbey-gate
Link: 5.1.167
And bid the lady abbess come to me.
Link: 5.1.168
I will determine this before I stir.
Link: 5.1.169
Enter a Servant
Servant
O mistress, mistress, shift and save yourself!
Link: 5.1.170
My master and his man are both broke loose,
Link: 5.1.171
Beaten the maids a-row and bound the doctor
Link: 5.1.172
Whose beard they have singed off with brands of fire;
Link: 5.1.173
And ever, as it blazed, they threw on him
Link: 5.1.174
Great pails of puddled mire to quench the hair:
Link: 5.1.175
My master preaches patience to him and the while
Link: 5.1.176
His man with scissors nicks him like a fool,
Link: 5.1.177
And sure, unless you send some present help,
Link: 5.1.178
Between them they will kill the conjurer.
Link: 5.1.179
ADRIANA
Peace, fool! thy master and his man are here,
Link: 5.1.180
And that is false thou dost report to us.
Link: 5.1.181
Servant
Mistress, upon my life, I tell you true;
Link: 5.1.182
I have not breathed almost since I did see it.
Link: 5.1.183
He cries for you, and vows, if he can take you,
Link: 5.1.184
To scorch your face and to disfigure you.
Link: 5.1.185
Hark, hark! I hear him, mistress. fly, be gone!
Link: 5.1.186
DUKE SOLINUS
Come, stand by me; fear nothing. Guard with halberds!
Link: 5.1.187
ADRIANA
Ay me, it is my husband! Witness you,
Link: 5.1.188
That he is borne about invisible:
Link: 5.1.189
Even now we housed him in the abbey here;
Link: 5.1.190
And now he's there, past thought of human reason.
Link: 5.1.191
Enter ANTIPHOLUS of Ephesus and DROMIO of Ephesus
ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
Justice, most gracious duke, O, grant me justice!
Link: 5.1.192
Even for the service that long since I did thee,
Link: 5.1.193
When I bestrid thee in the wars and took
Link: 5.1.194
Deep scars to save thy life; even for the blood
Link: 5.1.195
That then I lost for thee, now grant me justice.
Link: 5.1.196
AEGEON
Unless the fear of death doth make me dote,
Link: 5.1.197
I see my son Antipholus and Dromio.
Link: 5.1.198
ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
Justice, sweet prince, against that woman there!
Link: 5.1.199
She whom thou gavest to me to be my wife,
Link: 5.1.200
That hath abused and dishonour'd me
Link: 5.1.201
Even in the strength and height of injury!
Link: 5.1.202
Beyond imagination is the wrong
Link: 5.1.203
That she this day hath shameless thrown on me.
Link: 5.1.204
DUKE SOLINUS
Discover how, and thou shalt find me just.
Link: 5.1.205
ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
This day, great duke, she shut the doors upon me,
Link: 5.1.206
While she with harlots feasted in my house.
Link: 5.1.207
DUKE SOLINUS
A grievous fault! Say, woman, didst thou so?
Link: 5.1.208
ADRIANA
No, my good lord: myself, he and my sister
Link: 5.1.209
To-day did dine together. So befall my soul
Link: 5.1.210
As this is false he burdens me withal!
Link: 5.1.211
LUCIANA
Ne'er may I look on day, nor sleep on night,
Link: 5.1.212
But she tells to your highness simple truth!
Link: 5.1.213
ANGELO
O perjured woman! They are both forsworn:
Link: 5.1.214
In this the madman justly chargeth them.
Link: 5.1.215
ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
My liege, I am advised what I say,
Link: 5.1.216
Neither disturbed with the effect of wine,
Link: 5.1.217
Nor heady-rash, provoked with raging ire,
Link: 5.1.218
Albeit my wrongs might make one wiser mad.
Link: 5.1.219
This woman lock'd me out this day from dinner:
Link: 5.1.220
That goldsmith there, were he not pack'd with her,
Link: 5.1.221
Could witness it, for he was with me then;
Link: 5.1.222
Who parted with me to go fetch a chain,
Link: 5.1.223
Promising to bring it to the Porpentine,
Link: 5.1.224
Where Balthazar and I did dine together.
Link: 5.1.225
Our dinner done, and he not coming thither,
Link: 5.1.226
I went to seek him: in the street I met him
Link: 5.1.227
And in his company that gentleman.
Link: 5.1.228
There did this perjured goldsmith swear me down
Link: 5.1.229
That I this day of him received the chain,
Link: 5.1.230
Which, God he knows, I saw not: for the which
Link: 5.1.231
He did arrest me with an officer.
Link: 5.1.232
I did obey, and sent my peasant home
Link: 5.1.233
For certain ducats: he with none return'd
Link: 5.1.234
Then fairly I bespoke the officer
Link: 5.1.235
To go in person with me to my house.
Link: 5.1.236
By the way we met
Link: 5.1.237
My wife, her sister, and a rabble more
Link: 5.1.238
Of vile confederates. Along with them
Link: 5.1.239
They brought one Pinch, a hungry lean-faced villain,
Link: 5.1.240
A mere anatomy, a mountebank,
Link: 5.1.241
A threadbare juggler and a fortune-teller,
Link: 5.1.242
A needy, hollow-eyed, sharp-looking wretch,
Link: 5.1.243
A dead-looking man: this pernicious slave,
Link: 5.1.244
Forsooth, took on him as a conjurer,
Link: 5.1.245
And, gazing in mine eyes, feeling my pulse,
Link: 5.1.246
And with no face, as 'twere, outfacing me,
Link: 5.1.247
Cries out, I was possess'd. Then all together
Link: 5.1.248
They fell upon me, bound me, bore me thence
Link: 5.1.249
And in a dark and dankish vault at home
Link: 5.1.250
There left me and my man, both bound together;
Link: 5.1.251
Till, gnawing with my teeth my bonds in sunder,
Link: 5.1.252
I gain'd my freedom, and immediately
Link: 5.1.253
Ran hither to your grace; whom I beseech
Link: 5.1.254
To give me ample satisfaction
Link: 5.1.255
For these deep shames and great indignities.
Link: 5.1.256
ANGELO
My lord, in truth, thus far I witness with him,
Link: 5.1.257
That he dined not at home, but was lock'd out.
Link: 5.1.258
DUKE SOLINUS
But had he such a chain of thee or no?
Link: 5.1.259
ANGELO
He had, my lord: and when he ran in here,
Link: 5.1.260
These people saw the chain about his neck.
Link: 5.1.261
Second Merchant
Besides, I will be sworn these ears of mine
Link: 5.1.262
Heard you confess you had the chain of him
Link: 5.1.263
After you first forswore it on the mart:
Link: 5.1.264
And thereupon I drew my sword on you;
Link: 5.1.265
And then you fled into this abbey here,
Link: 5.1.266
From whence, I think, you are come by miracle.
Link: 5.1.267
ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
I never came within these abbey-walls,
Link: 5.1.268
Nor ever didst thou draw thy sword on me:
Link: 5.1.269
I never saw the chain, so help me Heaven!
Link: 5.1.270
And this is false you burden me withal.
Link: 5.1.271
DUKE SOLINUS
Why, what an intricate impeach is this!
Link: 5.1.272
I think you all have drunk of Circe's cup.
Link: 5.1.273
If here you housed him, here he would have been;
Link: 5.1.274
If he were mad, he would not plead so coldly:
Link: 5.1.275
You say he dined at home; the goldsmith here
Link: 5.1.276
Denies that saying. Sirrah, what say you?
Link: 5.1.277
DROMIO OF EPHESUS
Sir, he dined with her there, at the Porpentine.
Link: 5.1.278
Courtezan
He did, and from my finger snatch'd that ring.
Link: 5.1.279
ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
'Tis true, my liege; this ring I had of her.
Link: 5.1.280
DUKE SOLINUS
Saw'st thou him enter at the abbey here?
Link: 5.1.281
Courtezan
As sure, my liege, as I do see your grace.
Link: 5.1.282
DUKE SOLINUS
Why, this is strange. Go call the abbess hither.
Link: 5.1.283
I think you are all mated or stark mad.
Link: 5.1.284
Exit one to Abbess
AEGEON
Most mighty duke, vouchsafe me speak a word:
Link: 5.1.285
Haply I see a friend will save my life
Link: 5.1.286
And pay the sum that may deliver me.
Link: 5.1.287
DUKE SOLINUS
Speak freely, Syracusian, what thou wilt.
Link: 5.1.288
AEGEON
Is not your name, sir, call'd Antipholus?
Link: 5.1.289
And is not that your bondman, Dromio?
Link: 5.1.290
DROMIO OF EPHESUS
Within this hour I was his bondman sir,
Link: 5.1.291
But he, I thank him, gnaw'd in two my cords:
Link: 5.1.292
Now am I Dromio and his man unbound.
Link: 5.1.293
AEGEON
I am sure you both of you remember me.
Link: 5.1.294
DROMIO OF EPHESUS
Ourselves we do remember, sir, by you;
Link: 5.1.295
For lately we were bound, as you are now
Link: 5.1.296
You are not Pinch's patient, are you, sir?
Link: 5.1.297
AEGEON
Why look you strange on me? you know me well.
Link: 5.1.298
AEGEON
O, grief hath changed me since you saw me last,
Link: 5.1.299
And careful hours with time's deformed hand
Link: 5.1.300
Have written strange defeatures in my face:
Link: 5.1.301
But tell me yet, dost thou not know my voice?
Link: 5.1.302
ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
Neither.
Link: 5.1.303
AEGEON
Dromio, nor thou?
Link: 5.1.304
DROMIO OF EPHESUS
No, trust me, sir, nor I.
Link: 5.1.305
AEGEON
I am sure thou dost.
Link: 5.1.306
DROMIO OF EPHESUS
Ay, sir, but I am sure I do not; and whatsoever a
Link: 5.1.307
man denies, you are now bound to believe him.
Link: 5.1.308
AEGEON
Not know my voice! O time's extremity,
Link: 5.1.309
Hast thou so crack'd and splitted my poor tongue
Link: 5.1.310
In seven short years, that here my only son
Link: 5.1.311
Knows not my feeble key of untuned cares?
Link: 5.1.312
Though now this grained face of mine be hid
Link: 5.1.313
In sap-consuming winter's drizzled snow,
Link: 5.1.314
And all the conduits of my blood froze up,
Link: 5.1.315
Yet hath my night of life some memory,
Link: 5.1.316
My wasting lamps some fading glimmer left,
Link: 5.1.317
My dull deaf ears a little use to hear:
Link: 5.1.318
All these old witnesses--I cannot err--
Link: 5.1.319
Tell me thou art my son Antipholus.
Link: 5.1.320
ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
I never saw my father in my life.
Link: 5.1.321
AEGEON
But seven years since, in Syracusa, boy,
Link: 5.1.322
Thou know'st we parted: but perhaps, my son,
Link: 5.1.323
Thou shamest to acknowledge me in misery.
Link: 5.1.324
ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
The duke and all that know me in the city
Link: 5.1.325
Can witness with me that it is not so
Link: 5.1.326
I ne'er saw Syracusa in my life.
Link: 5.1.327
DUKE SOLINUS
I tell thee, Syracusian, twenty years
Link: 5.1.328
Have I been patron to Antipholus,
Link: 5.1.329
During which time he ne'er saw Syracusa:
Link: 5.1.330
I see thy age and dangers make thee dote.
Link: 5.1.331
Re-enter AEMILIA, with ANTIPHOLUS of Syracuse and DROMIO of Syracuse
AEMELIA
Most mighty duke, behold a man much wrong'd.
Link: 5.1.332
All gather to see them
ADRIANA
I see two husbands, or mine eyes deceive me.
Link: 5.1.333
DUKE SOLINUS
One of these men is Genius to the other;
Link: 5.1.334
And so of these. Which is the natural man,
Link: 5.1.335
And which the spirit? who deciphers them?
Link: 5.1.336
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
I, sir, am Dromio; command him away.
Link: 5.1.337
DROMIO OF EPHESUS
I, sir, am Dromio; pray, let me stay.
Link: 5.1.338
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
AEgeon art thou not? or else his ghost?
Link: 5.1.339
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
O, my old master! who hath bound him here?
Link: 5.1.340
AEMELIA
Whoever bound him, I will loose his bonds
Link: 5.1.341
And gain a husband by his liberty.
Link: 5.1.342
Speak, old AEgeon, if thou be'st the man
Link: 5.1.343
That hadst a wife once call'd AEmilia
Link: 5.1.344
That bore thee at a burden two fair sons:
Link: 5.1.345
O, if thou be'st the same AEgeon, speak,
Link: 5.1.346
And speak unto the same AEmilia!
Link: 5.1.347
AEGEON
If I dream not, thou art AEmilia:
Link: 5.1.348
If thou art she, tell me where is that son
Link: 5.1.349
That floated with thee on the fatal raft?
Link: 5.1.350
AEMELIA
By men of Epidamnum he and I
Link: 5.1.351
And the twin Dromio all were taken up;
Link: 5.1.352
But by and by rude fishermen of Corinth
Link: 5.1.353
By force took Dromio and my son from them
Link: 5.1.354
And me they left with those of Epidamnum.
Link: 5.1.355
What then became of them I cannot tell
Link: 5.1.356
I to this fortune that you see me in.
Link: 5.1.357
DUKE SOLINUS
Why, here begins his morning story right;
Link: 5.1.358
These two Antipholuses, these two so like,
Link: 5.1.359
And these two Dromios, one in semblance,--
Link: 5.1.360
Besides her urging of her wreck at sea,--
Link: 5.1.361
These are the parents to these children,
Link: 5.1.362
Which accidentally are met together.
Link: 5.1.363
Antipholus, thou camest from Corinth first?
Link: 5.1.364
ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
No, sir, not I; I came from Syracuse.
Link: 5.1.365
DUKE SOLINUS
Stay, stand apart; I know not which is which.
Link: 5.1.366
ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
I came from Corinth, my most gracious lord,--
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DROMIO OF EPHESUS
And I with him.
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ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
Brought to this town by that most famous warrior,
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Duke Menaphon, your most renowned uncle.
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ADRIANA
Which of you two did dine with me to-day?
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ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
I, gentle mistress.
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ADRIANA
And are not you my husband?
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ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
No; I say nay to that.
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ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
And so do I; yet did she call me so:
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And this fair gentlewoman, her sister here,
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Did call me brother.
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What I told you then,
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I hope I shall have leisure to make good;
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If this be not a dream I see and hear.
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ANGELO
That is the chain, sir, which you had of me.
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ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
I think it be, sir; I deny it not.
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ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
And you, sir, for this chain arrested me.
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ANGELO
I think I did, sir; I deny it not.
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ADRIANA
I sent you money, sir, to be your bail,
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By Dromio; but I think he brought it not.
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DROMIO OF EPHESUS
No, none by me.
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ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
This purse of ducats I received from you,
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And Dromio, my man, did bring them me.
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I see we still did meet each other's man,
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And I was ta'en for him, and he for me,
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And thereupon these errors are arose.
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ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
These ducats pawn I for my father here.
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DUKE SOLINUS
It shall not need; thy father hath his life.
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Courtezan
Sir, I must have that diamond from you.
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ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
There, take it; and much thanks for my good cheer.
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AEMELIA
Renowned duke, vouchsafe to take the pains
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To go with us into the abbey here
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And hear at large discoursed all our fortunes:
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And all that are assembled in this place,
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That by this sympathized one day's error
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Have suffer'd wrong, go keep us company,
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And we shall make full satisfaction.
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Thirty-three years have I but gone in travail
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Of you, my sons; and till this present hour
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My heavy burden ne'er delivered.
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The duke, my husband and my children both,
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And you the calendars of their nativity,
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Go to a gossips' feast and go with me;
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After so long grief, such festivity!
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DUKE SOLINUS
With all my heart, I'll gossip at this feast.
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Exeunt all but Antipholus of Syracuse, Antipholus of Ephesus, Dromio of Syracuse and Dromio of Ephesus
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
Master, shall I fetch your stuff from shipboard?
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ANTIPHOLUS OF EPHESUS
Dromio, what stuff of mine hast thou embark'd?
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DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
Your goods that lay at host, sir, in the Centaur.
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ANTIPHOLUS OF SYRACUSE
He speaks to me. I am your master, Dromio:
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Come, go with us; we'll look to that anon:
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Embrace thy brother there; rejoice with him.
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Exeunt Antipholus of Syracuse and Antipholus of Ephesus
DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
There is a fat friend at your master's house,
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That kitchen'd me for you to-day at dinner:
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She now shall be my sister, not my wife.
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DROMIO OF EPHESUS
Methinks you are my glass, and not my brother:
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I see by you I am a sweet-faced youth.
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Will you walk in to see their gossiping?
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DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
Not I, sir; you are my elder.
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DROMIO OF EPHESUS
That's a question: how shall we try it?
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DROMIO OF SYRACUSE
We'll draw cuts for the senior: till then lead thou first.
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DROMIO OF EPHESUS
Nay, then, thus:
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We came into the world like brother and brother;
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And now let's go hand in hand, not one before another.
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Exeunt