And all the neighbours see him as seldom as I;
But when they would take rest, they hear him blow and cry.
Some see him so seldom, they ask if he be sick:
Sometimes some demand, whether he be dead or quick.
But, to make short tale, such his conditions be,
That I wish of God he had ne'er been born of me.
ISAAC. Well, wife, I love Esau, and must for causes twain.
REBECCA. Surely your love is bestowed on him in vain?
ISAAC. First, active he is, as any young man can be,
And many a good morsel he bringeth home to me.
Then he is mine eldest and first-begotten son.
REBECCA. If God were so pleased, I would that were foredone. [_Aside_.
ISAAC. And the eldest son is called the father's might.
REBECCA. If yours rest in Esau, God give us good night!
ISAAC. A prerogative he hath in every thing.
REBECCA. More pity he should have it without deserving.
ISAAC. Of all the goods his portion is greater.
REBECCA. That the worthy should have it, I think much better.
ISAAC. Among his brethren he hath the pre-eminence.
REBECCA. Where Esau is chief, there is a gay presence!
ISAAC. Over his brethren he is sovereign and lord.
REBECCA. Such dignity in Esau doth ill accord.
ISAAC. He is the head of the father's succession.
REBECCA, I would Esau had lost that possession.
ISAAC. And he hath the chief title of inheritance.
REBECCA. Wisdom would in Esau change that ordinance.
ISAAC. To the eldest son is due the father's blessing.
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