"Keep clear the town, you cannot pass inside,
The Prince is here, with other things to do
Than stare at gangs of strollers such as you."
_The Showman:_
But I am billed to play here; and must play.
_The Soldiers:_
No must at all. You cannot play to-day,
Nor pitch your tents within the city bound.
_The Showman:_
Where can I, then?
_The Soldiers:_
Go, find some other ground.
_A Policeman:_
Pass through the city. You can pitch and play
One mile beyond it, after five to-day.
_The Showman:_
One mile beyond, what use is that to me?
_A Policeman:_
Those are the rules, here printed, you can see.
_The Showman:_
But let me see the Mayor, to make sure.
_The Soldiers:_
These are his printed orders, all secure.
Pass through or back, you must not linger here,
Blocking the road with all this circus gear.
Which will you do, then: back or pass along?
