A Select Collection of Old English Plays, Volume 10

Note 253 — THE PROLOGUE.

Reading edition

This cant phrase is common in the old plays. Mr Tollet supposes it taken from the Italian via, and to be used on occasions to quicken or pluck up courage. See note to the "Merry Wives of Windsor," act ii. sc. 2. It here [and elsewhere] signifies away! So, in "Edward the Third," act ii. sc. 2—

"Then via for the spacious bounds of France."

In Jonson's "Devil is an Ass," act ii. sc. 1—

"Let her go: Via, pecunia."

Again, in "Eastward Hoe! "—

"Avaunt. dull flat-cap then! Via, the curtain that shadowed Borgia! There lie, thou husk of my envassall'd state."

And in Marston's "What you Will," act ii.—

"Come now, via, aloune to Celia."