Fri. L. This same should be the voice of Friar John. Welcome from Mantua: what says Romeo? Or, if his mind be writ, give me his letter.[1429] Fri. J. Going to find a bare-foot brother out, 5 One of our order, to associate me, Here in this city visiting the sick,[1430] And finding him, the searchers of the town,[1430] Suspecting that we both were in a house Where the infectious pestilence did reign, 10 Seal'd up the doors and would not let us forth; So that my speed to Mantua there was stay'd.[1431] Fri. L. Who bare my letter then to Romeo?[1432] Fri. J. I could not send it,—here it is again,—[1433] Nor get a messenger to bring it thee, 15 So fearful were they of infection. Fri. L. Unhappy fortune! by my brotherhood, The letter was not nice, but full of charge[1434] Of dear import, and the neglecting it May do much danger. Friar John, go hence; 20 Get me an iron crow and bring it straight Unto my cell. Fri. J. Brother, I'll go and bring it thee.[1435] [Exit. Fri. L. Now must I to the monument alone; Within this three hours will fair Juliet wake:[1436] 25 She will beshrew me much that Romeo Hath had no notice of these accidents; But I will write again to Mantua, And keep her at my cell till Romeo come: Poor living corse, closed in a dead man's tomb! [Exit.30

Notes in this chapter

Note 1 · Scene ii.] Rowe. Friar Laurence's cell.] Capell. The Monastery near Verona. Rowe.Note 2 · Enter Friar John.] Theobald. Enter Friar John to Friar Laurence. Qq Ff.Note 3 · Enter Friar Laurence.] Omitted by Rowe.Note 4 · if his mind] if mind F2 F3 F4.Note 5 · Here ... sick, And ... town,] And ... town, Here ... sick, Malone conj. (withdrawn).Note 6 · my] may Q4.Note 7 · bare] bore Pope.Note 8 · could] cold Q4.Note 9 · nice] ice Jackson conj.Note 10 · it thee.] it. Hanmer.Note 11 · this] these Q5.