Boling.
Can no man tell of my unthrifty son?
'Tis full three months, since I did see him last.
If any plague hang over us, 'tis he:
I would to heav'n, my lords, he might be found.
Enquire at London, 'mong the taverns there:
For there, they say, he daily doth frequent,
With unrestrained loose Companions:
Even such, they say, as stand in narrow lanes,
And beat our watch, and rob our passengers:
While he, young, wanton, and effeminate boy,
Takes on the point of honour, to support
So dissolute a Crew.

Percy.
My lord, some two days since I saw the Prince,
And told him of these Triumphs held at Oxford.

Boling.
And what said the Gallant?

Percy.
His answer was, he would unto the Stews,
And from the common'st Creature pluck a glove,

And wear it as a favour, and with that
He would unhorse the lustiest Challenger.

Boling.
As dissolute, as desp'rate; yet through both
I see some sparks of hope; which elder days
May happily bring forth. But who comes here? Enter Aumerle.

Aum.
Where is the King?

Boling.
What means our Cousin, that he stares,
And looks so wildly?

Aum.
God save your Grace. I do beseech your Majesty,
To have some conf'rence with your Grace alone.

Boling.
Withdraw your selves, and leave us here alone,
What is the matter with our Cousin now?

Aum.
For ever may my knees grow to the earth, [Kneels.
My tongue cleave to my roof within my mouth,
Unless a pardon, ere I rise or speak!

Boling.
Intended, or committed, was this fault?
If but the first, how heinous ere it be,
To win thy after-love, I pardon thee.

Aum.
Then give me leave that I may turn the key,
That no man enter till the Tale be done.

Boling.
Have thy desire. [York within.

York.
My Liege, beware, look to thy self,
Thou hast a traitor in thy presence there.

Boling.
Villain, I'll make thee safe.

Aum.
Stay thy revengeful hand, thou hast no cause to fear.

York.
Open the door, secure, fool-hardy King:
Shall I for love speak treason to thy face?
Open the door, or I will break it open.

Previous section

Next section