DIANA Whatsome'er he is,
He's bravely taken here. He stole from France,
As 'tis reported, for the king had married him
Against his liking: think you it is so?
HELENA Ay, surely, mere the truth: I know his lady.
DIANA There is a gentleman that serves the count
Reports but coarsely of her.
HELENA What's his name?
DIANA Monsieur Parolles.
HELENA O, I believe with him,
In argument of praise, or to the worth
Of the great count himself, she is too mean
To have her name repeated: all her deserving
Is a reserved honesty, and that
I have not heard examined.
DIANA Alas, poor lady!
'Tis a hard bondage to become the wife
Of a detesting lord.
Widow I warrant, good creature, wheresoe'er she is,
Her heart weighs sadly: this young maid might do her
A shrewd turn, if she pleased.
HELENA How do you mean?
May be the amorous count solicits her
In the unlawful purpose.
Widow He does indeed;
And brokes with all that can in such a suit
Corrupt the tender honour of a maid:
But she is arm'd for him and keeps her guard
In honestest defence.
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