Act 2 - Scene 1

Britain. Before Cymbeline's palace.

Enter CLOTEN and two Lords

CLOTEN

Was there ever man had such luck! when I kissed the
jack, upon an up-cast to be hit away! I had a
hundred pound on't: and then a whoreson jackanapes
must take me up for swearing; as if I borrowed mine
oaths of him and might not spend them at my pleasure.

First Lord

What got he by that? You have broke his pate with
your bowl.

Second Lord

[Aside] If his wit had been like him that broke it,
it would have run all out.

CLOTEN

When a gentleman is disposed to swear, it is not for
any standers-by to curtail his oaths, ha?

Second Lord

No my lord;

Aside

nor crop the ears of them.

CLOTEN

Whoreson dog! I give him satisfaction?
Would he had been one of my rank!

Second Lord

[Aside] To have smelt like a fool.

CLOTEN

I am not vexed more at any thing in the earth: a
pox on't! I had rather not be so noble as I am;
they dare not fight with me, because of the queen my
mother: every Jack-slave hath his bellyful of
fighting, and I must go up and down like a cock that
nobody can match.

Second Lord

[Aside] You are cock and capon too; and you crow,
cock, with your comb on.

CLOTEN

Sayest thou?

Second Lord

It is not fit your lordship should undertake every
companion that you give offence to.