human
Why, Matthew, is it only thee?
gpt
Who else? Open, thou durned fool. My news willun’t bide.
human
Here’s a gallant rogue! It was by his help I won into York last spring. Sutler, I thank you for the donkey purchased from you.
gpt
Is she well, sir? asked the other eagerly.
human
I aye had a weakness for the skew-tempered jade.
gpt
Come, your news?
human
It’s this way, gentles. I can talk well enough when I’m selling produce for the best price it will fetch—and prices rule high just now, I own—but I’m shy when it comes to talking wi’ my betters.
gpt
Then put some wine into your body, laughed Malone.
human
It’s a fine remedy for shyness.
gpt
And thank ye, sir, said the rogue, with a quiet, respectful wink.
human
I’m aye seeking a cure for my prime malady.
gpt
Well?
human
It tingles right down to a body’s toes, my lord—a very warming liquor. As for what I came to say, ’tis just this. I’m for the King myself. I never could bide these Parliament men, though I sell victuals to ’em. I come to tell ye that there’s no siege of York at all.