Macbush

Act V, Scene 2

Capitol Hill. Two citizens meet.

1ST CITIZEN.: Wither so fast?

2ND CIT.: To hear what shall become of the trial.

1ST CIT.: I'll save you that labour.
All's done but the ceremony
O'bringing back the prisoner.

2ND CIT.: Pray speak what has happened.

1ST CIT.: You may guess quickly what.

2ND CIT.: Is he found guilty?

1ST CIT.: Yes, truly is he and condemned upon it.
I do not deny, the jury,
Passing on the prisoner's life,
May in the sworn twelve
Have a thief or two
Guiltier than him they try.

2nd CIT.: But, pray, how past it?

1st CIT.: The prisoner came to the bar;
Where, to his accusations
He pleaded, not guilty, and alleged
Many sharp reasons to defeat the law.
The King's attorney, on the contrary,
Urged on the examinations, proofs,
Confessions of divers witnesses;
Which the prisoner desired to have brought,
Viva voce, to his face:
But they denied him that, saying
'Twas for secret necessity of affairs of state.

2ND CIT.: I am sorry for't.

1ST CIT.: So are a number more.