Beggar's Opera — Act III (Part 11 of 13)

Air.—To old Sir Simon the king

But valour the stronger grows
   The stronger liquor we’re drinking,
And how can we feel our woes
   When we’ve lost the trouble of thinking?

[Drinks.

Air.—Joy to great Cæsar

If thus—a man can die
Much bolder with brandy.

[Pours out a bumper of brandy.

Air.—There was an old woman, etc.

So I drink off this bumper, and now I can stand the test,
And my comrades shall see that I die as brave as the best.

[Drinks.

Air.—Did you ever hear of a gallant sailor?

But can I leave my pretty hussies
Without one tear or tender sigh?

Air.—Why are mine eyes still flowing

Their eyes, their lips, their busses
Recall my love. Ah! must I die?

Air.—Green Sleeves

Since laws were made for every degree, To curb vice in others, as well as in me,
I wonder we ha’n’t better company
   Upon Tyburn tree!
But gold from law can take out the sting,
And if rich men like us were to swing,
’Twould thin the land such numbers to string
   Upon Tyburn tree!

Enter Jailer

Jail.Some friends of yours, Captain, desire to be admitted. I leave you together.

[Exit Failer.

Enter Ben Budge and Mat of the Mint

Mac. For my having broke prison you see, gentlemen, I am ordered for immediate execution. The sheriff’s officers, I believe, are now at the door. That that Jemmy Twitcher should peach me I own surprised me. ’Tis a plain proof that the world is all alike, and that even our gang can no more trust one another than other people. Therefore I beg you, gentlemen, look well to yourselves, for in all probability you may live some months longer.

Mat. We are heartily sorry, Captain, for your misfortune —but ’tis what we must all come to.

Mac. Peachum and Lockit, you know, are infamous scoundrels. Their lives are as much in your power as yours are in theirs. Remember your dying friend. ’Tis my last request. Bring those villains to the gallows before you, and I am satisfied.

Mat. We’ll do ’t.