78 HOW THE LAST ACT OF HAMLET WAS WRITTEN.

“ No—half to begin with.”

The head of the prostrate dramatist was immediately deluged
with a plentiful cold bath.

It was not without its effect. He raised his head feebly, and
looked round with a stupid stare.

‘“What’s all this—where am I?” he asked, in a faltering voice.

“Where! where but in the best parlour of the Pipe and Tabor ;
and a nice mess you’ve made it in, with your broken glass and filthy
tobacco. But see, here’s a gentleman—a gentleman from Court,
Master Will.” |

Will raised himself on his elbow, and with some difficulty brought
the focus of his bloodshot eyes to bear upon his visitor.

“Eh, Essex—is that you? How are you?”

* You’re a nice fellow!” said the Earl.

“Yes, I know—I’m so ill!”

“ Serve you right!”

“T suppose it does,” said Will humbly. “I’ve been very drunk—
what time is it?”

“Time your tragedy was finished.”

“Tragedy!” said Will, vacantly. “What tragedy?”

“That which should come out to-morrow; it’s now Wednesday—
and the fifth act not finished.”

“You don’t mean to say that!” said Will, overwhelmed with re-

morse. “Oh, dear! oh, dear! What is to be done?”