The Massacre
Guise.
Why I am no traitor to the crowne of France.
What I have done tis for the Gospell sake.
Eper.
Nay for the Popes sake, and thine owne benefite.
What Peere in France but thou (aspiring Guise)
Durst be in armes without the Kings consent?
I challenge thee for treason in the cause.
Guise.
Ah base Epernoune, were not his highnes heere,
Thou shouldst perceive the D. of Guise is mov'd.
King.
Be patient Guise and threat not Epernoune,
Least thou perceive the Kiug of France be mov'd.
Guise.
Why? I am a Prince of the Valoyses line,
Therfore an enemy to the Burbonites.
I am a juror in the holy league,
And therfore hated of the Protestants.
What should I doe but stand upon my guarde?
And being able, Ile keep an hoast in pay.
Epernoune.
Thou able to maintaine an hoast in pay,
That livest by forraine exhibition.
The Pope and King of Spaine are thy good frends,
Else all France knowes how poor a Duke thou art.
King.
I, those are they that feed him with their golde,
To countermaund our will and check our freends.
Guise.
My Lord, to speak more plainely, thus it is:
Being animated by Religious zeale,
I meane to muster all the power I can,
To
