But here’s a villain that would face me down
Antipholus of Ephesus
But here’s a villain that would face me down
He met me on the mart, and that I beat him
And charged him with a thousand marks in gold,
And that I did deny my wife and house.—
Thou drunkard, thou, what didst thou mean by this?
Dromio of Ephesus
Say what you will, sir, but I know what I know.
That you beat me at the mart I have your hand to show;
If the skin were parchment and the blows you gave were ink,
Your own handwriting would tell you what I think.
Antipholus of Ephesus
I think thou art an ass.
Dromio of Ephesus
Marry, so it doth appear
By the wrongs I suffer and the blows I bear.
I should kick being kicked and, being at that pass,
You would keep from my heels and beware of an ass.
Small cheer and great welcome makes a merry feast.
Antipholus of Ephesus
You’re sad, Signior Balthasar. Pray God our cheer
May answer my goodwill and your good welcome here.
Balthasar
I hold your dainties cheap, sir, and your welcome dear.
Antipholus of Ephesus
O Signior Balthasar, either at flesh or fish
A table full of welcome makes scarce one dainty dish.
Balthasar
Good meat, sir, is common; that every churl affords.
Antipholus of Ephesus
And welcome more common, for that’s nothing but words.
Balthasar
Small cheer and great welcome makes a merry feast.
Antipholus of Ephesus
Ay, to a niggardly host and more sparing guest.
But though my cates be mean, take them in good part.
Better cheer may you have, but not with better heart.