Edm.
Lea.
Mean time we shall express note our darker purpose. note
The map † there. note—Know, that note we have divided,
In three, our kingdom: and 'tis our fast intent note
To shake all cares and business from our age; note
Conferring them on younger strengths, while we note
Unburthen'd crawl toward death.—Our son of Cornwal,
And you, our no less loving son of Albany,
We have this hour a constant will to publish
Our daughters' several dowers, that future strife
May be prevented now. The princes, note France and Burgundy,
Great rivals in our youngest daughter's note love,
-- 5 --
Long in our court have made their amorous sojourn,
And here are to be answer'd.—Tell me, my daughters,
(Since now we will divest us, both of rule, note
Interest of territory, cares of state,) note
Which of you shall we say doth love us most?
That we our largest bounty may extend
Where merit doth most challenge it. note—Goneril,
Our eldest-born, speak first.
Gon.
Sir, I do love you14Q1308
Far more than words note can wield the matter: note love you
Dearer than eye-sight, space and liberty; note
Beyond what can be valu'd, rich or rare;
No less than life, with grace, health, beauty, honour:
As much as child note e'er lov'd, or father found. note
A love that makes breath poor, and speech unable;
Beyond all manner of so much I love you.
&clquo;Cor.
&clquo;What shall Cordelia do? note Love, and be silent.&crquo;
Lea.
Of all these † bounds, even from this line to this,
With shadowy forests and with note champaigns rich'd,
With plenteous rivers and wide-skirted meads,
We make thee lady: To thine and Albany's issue note
Be this perpetual.—What says our second daughter,
Our dearest Regan, wife to Cornwal note? Speak. note
Reg.
I am made of that self metal as my sister note,
And prize me at her worth. In my note true heart
I find, she names my very deed of love;
Only she comes too short: note that I profess
Myself an enemy to all other joys,
Which the most precious square of sense possesses; note
And find, I am alone felicitate
In your dear highness' love.
&clquo;Cor.
&clquo;Then poor Cordelia!&crquo;
-- 6 --
&clquo;And yet not so; since, I am sure, my love's&crquo;
&clquo;More richer than my note tongue.&crquo;
Lea.
To thee, and thine, hereditary ever,
Remain this ample third † of our fair kingdom;
No less in space, validity, and pleasure,
Than that confer'd on Goneril.—Now note, our joy,14Q1309
Although the last, not least in our dear love, note
What can you say, to win a third more opulent
Than your two sisters?
Cor.
Nothing, my lord. note
Lea.
How!
Cor.
Nothing.
Lea.
Nothing can come note of nothing: speak again.
Cor.
Unhappy that I am, I cannot heave
My heart into my mouth: I love your majesty
According to my bond; nor more note, nor less.
Lea.
Go to, go to; mend note me your speech a little,
Lest it may note mar your fortunes.
Cor.
Good my lord,
You have begot me, bred me, lov'd me: I
Retnrn note those duties back as are right fit,
Obey you, love you, and most honour you.
Why have my sisters husbands, if they say,
They love you, all? Haply note, when I shall wed,
That lord, whose hand must take my plight, shall carry
Half my love with him, half my care, and duty:
Sure, I shall never marry like my sisters,
To love my father all. note
Lea.
But goes thy heart with this? note
Cor.
Ay, my good note lord.
Lea.
So young, and so untender?
Cor.
So young, my lord, and true.
-- 7 --
Lea.
Let it note be so,—Thy truth then be thy dower:
For, by the sacred radiance of the sun;
The mysteries of Hecate, and the night; note
By all the operations note of the orbs,
From whom we do exist, and cease to be;
Here I disclaim all my paternal care,
Propinquity and property of blood,
And as a stranger to my heart and me
Hold thee, from this, for ever. The barbarous Scythian,
Or he that makes his generation messes
To gorge his appetite, shall to my bosom note
Be as well neighbour'd, pity'd, and reliev'd,
As thou my sometime daughter.
Ken.
Good my liege,—
Lea.
Peace, Kent;
Come not between the dragon and his wrath:
I lov'd her most, and thought to set my rest
On her kind nursery.—Hence, and avoid my sight!—
So be my grave my peace, as here I give
Her father's heart from her.—Call France; Who stirs?
Call Burgundy.—[Exit an Att.] Cornwal, and Albany,
With my two daughters' dowers note digest this † third:
Let pride, which she calls plainness, marry her.
I do invest you jointly with my note power,
Preheminence, and all the large effects
That troop with majesty. Ourself, by monthly course,
With reservation of an hundred knights,
By you to be sustain'd, shall our abode
Make with you by due turns. Only we retain note14Q1310
The name; the additions to a king, the sway,
Revenue, execution, and the rest,
Beloved sons, be yours: which to confirm,
-- 8 --
This coronet &dagger2; part between you. note
Ken.
Royal Lear,
[in Action of preventing him.
Whom I have ever honour'd as my king,
Lov'd as my father, as my master follow'd,
As my great patron note thought on in my prayers,—
Lea.
The bow is bent and drawn, make from the shaft.
Ken.
Let it fall rather, though the fork invade
The region of my heart: be Kent unmannerly,
When Lear is mad. note What would'st thou note do, old man?
Think'st thou that duty shall have dread to speak,
When power to flattery bows? To plainness honour's bound,
When majesty stoops to folly. Reverse thy doom; note
And, in thy best consideration, check
This hideous rashness: answer my life my judgment,
Thy youngest daughter does not love thee least;
Nor are those empty-hearted, whose low sound
Reverbs note no hollowness.
Lea.
Kent, on thy life, no more.
Ken.
My life I never held but as a pawn
To wage against thy enemies; nor fear note to lose it,
Thy safety being the motive. note
Lea.
Out of my sight!
Ken.
See better, Lear; and let me still remain
The true blank of thine eye.
Lea.
Now, by Apollo,—
Ken.
Now, by Apollo! King, thou swear'st thy gods in vain.
Lea.
O, vassal! miscreant! note
[in Action of drawing his Sword.
Alb. Corn.
Dear sir, forbear. note
[interposing.
Ken.
Do; note Kill thy physician, and the fee note bestow
Upon thy foul note disease. Revoke thy gift; note
-- 9 --
Or, whilst I can vent clamour from my throat,
I'll tell thee, thou dost evil.
Lea.
Hear me, recreant;
On thine allegiance note, hear me!—
Since thou hast sought to make us break our vow, note
(Which we durst never yet,) and, with strain'd pride, note
To come between note our sentence note and our power,
(Which nor our nature nor our place can bear,)
Our potency made good, note14Q1311 take thy reward.
Five days note we do allot thee, for provision
To shield thee from disasters of note the world;
And, on the sixth, to note turn thy hated back
Upon our kingdom: if, on the note tenth day following,
Thy banish'd trunk be found in our dominions,
The moment is thy death: Away! By Jupiter,
This shall not be revok'd.
Ken.
Fare note thee well, king: sith thus note thou wilt appear,
Freedom lives note hence, and banishment is here.—
The gods to their dear shelter take thee, maid, note
That justly think'st, and hast most rightly note said!—
And, you, large speechers note, may your deeds approve
That good effects may spring from words of love.—
Thus Kent, o princes, bids you all adieu;
He'll shape his old course in a country new.
[Exit.
Re-enter Gloster, with France, Burgundy, and Attendants.
Glo.
Here's note France and Burgundy, my noble lord.
Lea.
My lord of Burgundy,
We first address towards note you, who with this king note
Hath rival'd for our daughter; What, in the least,
Will you require in present dower with her,
Or cease your quest of love?
-- 10 --
Bur.
Most note royal majesty,
I crave no more than hath your note highness offer'd,
Nor will you tender less.
Lea.
Right noble Burgundy,
When she was dear to us, we did hold her note so;14Q1312
But now her price is fall'n: Sir, there she stands;
If ought within that little, seeming, substance,
Or all of it, with our displeasure piec'd,
And nothing more, may note fitly like your grace,
She's there, and she is yours.
Bur.
I know no answer.
Lea.
Sir, note Will you, with those infirmities she owes,
Unfriended, new-adopted to our hate,
Dower'd with note our curse, and stranger'd with our oath,
Take her, or leave her?
Bur.
Pardon me, royal sir,
Election makes not up on such note conditions.
Lea.
Then leave her, sir; for, by the power that made me,
I tell you all her wealth.—For you, great king,
I would not from your love make such a stray,
To match you where I hate; therefore beseech you
To avert your liking a more worthier way,
Than on a wretch whom nature is asham'd
Almost to acknowledge hers.
Fra.
This is most strange!
That she, who even note but now was your best object, note
The argument of your praise, balm of your age,
The best, the dearest; note should in this trice of time
Commit a thing so monstrous, to dismantle
So many folds of favour! Sure, her offence
Must be of such unnatural degree,
That monsters it: or your fore-vouch'd affection note
-- 11 --
Fall'n into note taint: which to believe of her,
Must be a faith, that reason without miracle
Could note never plant in me.
Cor.
I yet beseech your majesty,
(If for I want14Q1313 that glib and oily art,
To speak and purpose not; since what I well intend note,
I'll do't before I speak) that you make known note,
It is no vicious blot, murder, or foulness,
No unchast action note, or dishonour'd step,
That hath depriv'd me of your grace and favour:
But even the want note of that, for which I am richer; note
A still-soliciting eye, and such a tongue
As I note am glad I have not, though, not to have it,
Hath lost me in your liking.
Lea.
Better note thou had'st not been born,
Than not to have pleas'd me better.
Fra.
Is it but note this? a tardiness in nature,
Which often note leaves the history unspoke,
That it intends to do?—My lord of Bungundy, note
What say you to the lady? Love's not love,
When it is mingl'd with regards, note and stands note
Aloof from the entire point: Say, will you have her?
She is herself a dowry. note
Bur.
Royal Lear, note
Give but that portion which yourself propos'd,
And here I take Cordelia by the hand,
Dutchess of Burgundy.
Lea.
Nothing: I have sworn; I am firm. note
Bur.
I am sorry then, you have so lost a father,
That you must lose a husband.
Cor.
Peace be with Burgundy!
Since that respects of fortune note are his love,
-- 12 --
I shall not be his wife.
Fra.
Fairest Cordelia, that art most rich, being poor;
Most choice, forsaken; and most lov'd, despis'd!
Thee and thy virtues here I seize upon:
Be it lawful, I take up what's cast away.
Gods, gods! 'tis strange, that from their cold'st note neglect
My love should kindle to inflam'd respect.—
Thy dowerless daughter, king, thrown to my chance, note
Is queen of us, of ours, and our fair France:
Not all the dukes of wat'rish note Burgundy
Can buy note this unpriz'd precious maid of me.—
Bid them farewel, Cordelia, though unkind:
Thou losest here, a better where to find.
Lea.
Thou hast her, France: let her be thine; for we
Have no such daughter, nor shall ever see
That face of hers again:—Therefore be gone,
Without our grace, our love, our benizon.—
Come, noble Burgundy.
[Flourish. Exeunt Lear, Burgundy, Cornwal,
Albany, Gloster, and Attendants.
Fra.
Bid farewel to your sisters.
Cor.
Ye jewels note of our father, with wash'd eyes
Cordelia leaves you: I know what you note are;
And, like a sister, am most loth to call
Your faults as they are nam'd. Use well note our father:
To your professing note bosoms I commit him:
But yet, alas, stood I within his grace,
I would prefer him to a better place.
So farewel to you both.
Gon.
Prescribe not us our duties. note
Reg.
Let note your study
Be, to content your lord; who hath receiv'd you
-- 13 --
As fortune's note alms: You have obedience scanted,
And well are worth14Q1314 to want the worth that note you have wanted.
Cor.
Time shall unfold what plaited note cunning hides,
Who cover'd note faults at last with shame derides note.
Well may you prosper!
Fra.
Come, my note fair Cordelia.
[Exeunt France, and Cordelia.
Gon.
Sister, it is not a little note I have to say, of what
most nearly appertains to us both. I think, our father
will hence to-night.
Reg.
That's most certain, and with you; next month
with us.
Gon.
You see how full of changes his age is; the
observation we have made of it hath not been note little:
he always lov'd our sister most; and with what poor
judgment he hath now cast her off, appears too grosly. note
Reg.
'Tis the infirmity of his age: yet he hath ever
but slenderly known himself.
Gon.
The best and soundest of his time hath been but
rash; then must we look to receive from his age note not
alone the imperfections note of long-ingrafted note condition,
but, therewithal, the note unruly waywardness that infirm
and cholerick years bring with them.
Reg.
Such unconstant starts note are we like to have from
him, as this of Kent's banishment.
Gon.
There is further compliment of leave-taking
between France and him. Pray you, let us sit together: note
If our father carry authority, with such dispositions note as
he bears, this last surrender of his will but offend us.
Reg.
We shall further think on't. note
Gon.
We must do something, and i'the heat.
[Exeunt.
-- 14 --
SCENE II.
A Hall in the Earl of Gloster's Castle.
Enter Edmund.
Edm.
Thou, nature, art my goddess; to thy law
My services are bound: Wherefore should I14Q1315
Stand in the plague of custom; and permit
The courtesy note of nations to deprive me,
For that I am some twelve or fourteen moon-shines
Lag of a brother? Why bastard? Wherefore base?
When my dimensions are as well compact,
My mind as generous, and my shape as true,
As honest madam's issue? Why brand they us
With base? with baseness? bastardy? base, base?
Who, in note the lusty stealth of nature, take
More composition and fierce quality,
Than doth, within a dull, stale, tired bed, note
Go to the creating a note whole tribe of fops,
Got 'tween asleep note and wake?—Well then,
Legitimate note Edgar, I must have your land:
Our father's love is to the bastard Edmund,
As to the legitimate: Fine word, legitimate! note
Well, my legitimate, if this † letter speed,
And my invention thrive, Edmund the base
Shall top the legitimate note note. I grow; I prosper:—
Now, gods, stand up for bastards!
Enter Gloster.
Glo.
Kent banish'd thus! And France in choler parted!
And the king gone to-night! subscrib'd his note power!14Q1316
Confin'd to exhibition! All this done note
Upon the gad!—Edmund! How now? What news?
Edm.
So please your lordship, none.
Glo.
Why so earnestly seek you to put up that letter?
-- 15 --
Edm.
I know no news, my lord.
Glo.
What paper were you reading?
Edm.
Nothing, my lord.
Glo.
No? What needed then note that terrible dispatch
of it into your pocket? the quality of nothing hath not
such need to hide itself. Let's see: Come, if it be nothing,
I shall not need spectacles.
Edm.
I beseech you, sir, pardon me: it is a letter from
my brother, that I have not all o'er read; for note so much
as I have perused, I find it not fit for your o'er-looking. note
Glo.
Give me the letter, sir.
Edm.
I shall offend, either to detain or give it. The
contents, as in part I understand them, are to blame.
Glo.
Let's see, let's see.
Edm.
I hope, for my brother's justification, he wrote
this but as an essay or taste of my virtue.
Glo. [reads]
This policy, and reverence note of age, makes
the world bitter to the best note of our times; keeps our fortunes
from us, 'till our oldness cannot relish them. I begin
to find an idle and fond bondage in the oppression of aged
tyranny; which sways, not as it hath power, but as it
is suffered. Come to me, that of this I may speak more.
If our father would sleep 'till I wak'd him, you should
enjoy half his revenue for ever, and live the beloved of
your brother
Edgar.
Hum—Conspiracy!—Sleep 'till note I wak'd him, note—you should
enjoy half his revenue.—My son Edgar! Had he a hand
to write this? a heart and brain note to breed it in?—When
came this to you? note Who brought it?
Edm.
It was not brought me, my lord, there's the
cunning of it; I found it thrown in at the casement of
my closet.
-- 16 --
Glo.
You know the character to be your brother's?
Edm.
If the matter were good, my lord, I durst swear
it were his; but, in respect of that, I would fain think
it were not.
Glo.
It is his note.
Edm.
It is his hand, my lord; but, note I hope, his heart
is not in the contents.
Glo.
Hath he never heretofore note sounded you in this
business?
Edm.
Never, my lord: But I have heard him oft note
maintain it to be fit, that, sons at perfect age, and fathers
declining, note the father should be as ward to the son,
and the son manage his revenue. note
Glo.
O villain, villain!—His very opinion in the
letter!—Abhorred villain! Unnatural, detested, brutish
villain; worse than brutish!—Go, sirrah, seek him; I'll
apprehend note him:—Abominable villain!—Where is he?
Edm.
I do not well know, my lord. If it shall please
you to suspend your indignation against my brother,
'till you can derive from him better testimony of his
intent, note you should run note a certain course; where, if you
violently proceed against him, mistaking his purpose,
it would make a great gap in your own note honour, and
shake in pieces the heart of his obedience. I dare pawn
down my life for him, that note he hath writ this note to feel my
affection to your honour, and to no other pretence note of
danger.
Glo.
Think you so?
Edm.
If your honour judge it meet, I will place you
where you shall hear us confer of this, and by an auricular
assurance have your satisfaction; and that without
any further delay than this very evening.
-- 17 --
Glo.
He cannot be such a monster.
Edm.
Nor is not, sure. note
Glo.
To his father, that so tenderly and intirely
loves him. Heaven and earth!—Edmund, seek him out;
wind me into him, I pray you: frame the business note after
your own wisdom: I would unstate14Q1317 myself, to be in a
due resolution.
Edm.
I will seek note him, sir, presently; convey the business
as I shall find means, note and acquaint you withal.
Glo.
These late eclipses in the sun and moon portend
no good to us: Though the wisdom of nature can
reason it note thus and thus, yet nature finds itself scourg'd
by the sequent effects: love cools, friendship falls off,
brothers divide: in cities, mutinies; in countries, discord;
in palaces, treason; and note the bond crack'd between
son note and father. This villain note of mine comes under
the prediction; there's son against father: the king falls
from byas of nature; there's father against child. We
have seen the best of our time: Machinations, hollowness,
treachery, and all ruinous disorders, follow us disquietly
to our graves.—Find out this villain, Edmund;
it shall lose thee nothing; do it carefully:—And the
noble and true-hearted Kent banish'd! his offence, honesty! note
Strange, strange! note
[Exit Gloster.
Edm.
This is the excellent foppery of the world!
that, when we are sick in fortune, (often the surfeit of note
our own behaviour) we make guilty of our disasters,
the sun, the moon, and the stars: note as if we were villains
on necessity note; fools, by heavenly compulsion; knaves,
thieves, and trechers, by spherical predominance note; drunkards,
liars, and adulterers, by an enforc'd obedience
of planetary influence; and all that we are evil in, by
-- 18 --
a divine thrusting on: An admirable evasion of whore-master
man, to lay his goatish disposition to the charge
of stars! note My father compounded with my mother under
the dragon's tail; and my nativity was under ursa major;
so that it follows, I am rough and letcherous:—I
should note have been that I am, had the maidenliest star in
the note firmament twinkl'd on my bastardizing. note
Enter Edgar.
&clquo;Edgar! note Pat;14Q1318 He comes note like the catastrophe of the
old comedy: My cue is note villainous melancholy, with
a sigh like Tom o' Bedlam. note O, these eclipses do portend
these divisions! note&crquo;
Edg.
How now, brother Edmund? What serious contemplation
are you in?
Edm.
I am thinking, brother, of a prediction I read
this other day, what should follow these eclipses.
Edg.
Do you busy yourself with that? note
Edm.
I promise you, the effects he writes of succeed
unhappily. note When saw you my father last?
Edg.
The note night gone by.
Edm.
Spake you with him?
Edg.
Ay, note two hours together.
Edm.
Parted you in good terms? Found you no displeasure
in him, by word, or countenance note?
Edg.
None at all.
Edm.
Bethink yourself, wherein you may have offended
him: and at my entreaty forbear his presence, 'till
some note little time hath qualify'd the heat of his displeasure; note
which at this instant so rageth in him, that without
the note14Q1319 mischief of your person note it would scarcely allay.
Edg.
Some villain hath done me wrong.
Edm.
That's my fear. I pray you note have a continent
-- 19 --
forbearance, 'till the speed of his rage goes slower; and,
as I say, retire with me to my lodging, from whence I
will fitly bring you to hear my lord speak: Pray you,
go; there's my &dagger2; key:—If you do stir abroad, go
arm'd.
Edg.
Arm'd, brother?
Edm.
Brother, I advise you to the best; go arm'd; note
I am no honest man, if there be any good meaning towards
you: I have told you what I have seen and heard,
but faintly; nothing like the image and horror of it:
Pray you, away.
Edg.
Shall I hear from you anon?
Edm.
I do serve you in this business.—
[Exit Edgar.
A credulous father, and a brother noble,
Whose nature is so far from doing harms,
That he suspects none; on whose foolish honesty
My practises ride easy!—I see the business.—
Let me, if not by birth, have lands by wit:
All with me's meet, that I can fashion fit.
[Exit Edmund.
SCENE III.
A Room in the Duke of Albany's Palace.
Enter Goneril, and Steward. note
Gon.
Did my father strike my gentleman for chiding
of his fool?
Ste.
Ay, madam. note
Gon.
By day and night! he wrongs me; every hour
He flashes into one gross crime or other,
That sets us all at odds: I'll not endure it:
His knights grow riotous, and himself upbraids note us
On every trifle:—When he returns from hunting,
-- 20 --
I will not speak with him; say, I am sick:—
If you come slack of former services,
You shall do well; the fault of it I'll answer.
[Horns within.
Ste.
He's coming, madam; I hear him.
Gon.
Put on what weary negligence you please,
You and your fellows; I'd have it come to question: note—
If he dislike it, note let him to my sister, note
Whose mind and mine, I know, in that are one,
Not to be over-rul'd. Idle old man, note
That still would manage those authorities
That he hath given away! Now, by my life,14Q1320
Old fools are babes again; and must be us'd
With checks, not flatteries note when they are seen abus'd.
Remember what I note have said.
Ste.
Very note well, madam.
Gon.
And let his knights have colder looks among you;
What grows of it, no matter; advise your fellows so:
I would breed from hence occasions, and I shall, note
That I may speak:—I'll write straight to my sister,
To hold my very note course:—Prepare note for dinner.
[Exeunt severally.
SCENE IV.
An outer Hall in the same.
Enter Kent, disguis'd.
Ken.
If but as well14Q1321 I note other accents borrow,
That can my speech deface, note my good intent
May carry through itself to that full issue
For which I raz'd note my likeness. Now, banish'd Kent,
If thou can'st serve where thou dost stand condemn'd,
(So may it come! note) thy master, whom thou lov'st,
-- 21 --
Shall find thee full of labours. note
[Horns.
Enter Lear, Gentleman,14Q1322 Knights, and Attendants.
Lea.
Let me not stay a jot for dinner; go, get it ready.
[to an Attendant, who goes out.
How now, what art thou?
Ken.
A man, sir.
Lea.
What dost thou profess? What would'st thou with us?
Ken.
I do profess to be no less than I seem; to serve
him truly, that will put me in trust; to love him that
is honest; to converse with him that is wise, and says
little; to fear judgment; to fight, when I cannot choose;
and to eat no fish.
Lea.
What art thou? note
Ken.
A very honest-hearted fellow, and as poor as the king.
Lea.
If thou be as note poor for a subject, as he is for a
king, thou art poor enough. What would'st thou?
Ken.
Service.
Lea.
Whom would'st note thou serve?
Ken.
You.
Lea.
Dost thou know me, fellow?
Ken.
No, sir; but you have that in your countenance,
which I would fain call master.
Lea.
What's that?
Ken.
Authority.
Lea.
What services can'st thou note do?
Ken.
I can keep honest counsel, note ride, run, mar a curious
tale in telling it, and deliver a plain message bluntly:
that which ordinary men are fit for, I am qualify'd
in; and the best of me is diligence.
Lea.
How old art thou?
Ken.
Not so young, sir, note to love a woman for singing;
-- 22 --
nor so old, to dote on her for any thing: I have
years on my back forty eight.
Lea.
Follow me; thou shalt note serve me; if I like thee
no worse after dinner, I will not part from thee yet.—
Dinner, ho, dinner!—Where's my knave, my fool? Go
you, [to an Attendant.] and call my fool hither:—
Enter Steward.
You, you, sirrah, where's my daughter?
Ste.
So please you,—
[Exit.
Lea.
What says the fellow there? Call the clot-pole
back.—Where's my fool? Ho, I think the world's
asleep.—How now, where's that mungrel?
Gen.
He says note, my lord, your daughter note is not well.
Lea.
Why came not the slave back to me, when I
call'd him?
Gen.
Sir, he note answer'd me in the roundest manner,
he would not.
Lea.
He would note not!
Gen.
My lord, I know not what the matter is, but,
to my judgment, your highness is not entertained with
that ceremonious affection as you were wont; there's a
great abatement appears note, as well in the general dependants,
as in the duke himself also, and your daughter.
Lea.
Ha! say'st thou so?
Gen.
I beseech you, pardon me, my lord, if I be
mistaken; for my duty cannot be silent, when I think
your highness is note wrong'd.
Lea.
Thou but remember'st me of mine own conception:
I have perceived a most faint neglect of late;
which I have rather blamed as mine own jealous curiosity,
than as a very pretence and purpose of note unkindness:
I will look further into't. note—But where's my fool? note
-- 23 --
I have not seen him this two note days.
Gen.
Since my young lady's going into France, sir,
the fool hath much pined away.
Lea.
No more of that; I have noted it.—Go note you, [to one Attendant.]
and tell my daughter, I would speak with
her.—Go you, [to another] call hither my fool.—O,
Re-enter Steward, brought back by an Attendant.
you sir, you sir, come you hither: Who note am I, sir?
Ste.
My lady's father.
Lea.
My lady's father! my lord's knave: You whorson
dog! you slave! you cur!
Ste.
I am none of this, my lord; I beseech you, pardon me. note
Lea.
Do you bandy looks with me, you rascal?
Ste.
I'll not be struck note, my lord.
[in Posture of defending himself.
Ken.
Nor tript neither; you base football-player.
[tripping up his Heels.
Lea.
I thank thee, fellow; thou serv'st me, and I'll
love thee.
Ken.
Come, sir, arise, away; note I'll teach you differences;
away, away: If you will measure your lubber's
length again, tarry: but away: go to; Have you wisdom note?
so note.
[driving him out.
Lea.
Now, my note friendly knave, I thank thee: there's note
earnest of thy service.
[giving Kent Money.
Enter Fool.
Foo.
Let me hire him too;—Here's my coxcomb.
[offering his Cap.
Lea.
How now, my pretty knave? how dost thou?
Foo.
Sirrah, you were best take my coxcomb.
Ken.
Why, fool? note
-- 24 --
Foo.
Why? For taking one's part that's out of favour:
Nay, an thou can'st not smile as the wind sits,
thou'lt catch cold shortly: there, take my coxcomb:
Why, this fellow has banish'd note two on's note daughters, and
did the note third a blessing against his will; if thou follow
him, thou must needs wear my coxcomb.—How now,
nuncle?14Q1323 'Would I had two coxcombs, and two daughters!
Lea.
Why, my boy?
Foo.
If I gave them all my living, note I'd keep my coxcombs note
myself: There's † mine; beg another of thy
daughters.
Lea.
Take heed, sirrah; the whip.
Foo.
Truth's a dog must note to kennel; he must be
whipt out, when the lady brach note may stand by the fire
and stink.
Lea.
A pestilent gall note to me!
Foo.
Sirrah, I'll14Q1324 teach thee a speech.
Ken.
Do. note
Foo.
Mark it, nuncle note:—
Have more than thou showest,
Speak less than thou knowest,
Lend less than thou owest,
Ride more than thou goest,
Learn more than thou trowest,
Set less than thou throwest;
Leave thy drink and thy whore,
And keep in-a-door,
And thou shalt have more
Than two tens to a score.
Ken.
This is note nothing, fool.
Foo.
Then 'tis note like the breath of an unfee'd lawyer;
you gave me nothing for't note:—Can you make no use of
-- 25 --
nothing, nuncle? note
Lea.
Why, no, boy; nothing can be made out of nothing.
Foo.
Pr'ythee, tell him, [to Kent] so much the rent
of his land comes to; he will not believe a fool.
Lea.
A bitter fool!
Foo.
Dost thou note14Q1325 know the difference, nuncle, between note
a bitter fool and a sweet fool?
Lea.
No, lad; teach me.
Foo.
That lord, that counsel'd thee note
to give away thy land,
Come place him here by me,—
or do thou for him stand:
The sweet and bitter fool
will presently appear;
The one in motley here †,
the other found out there †.
Lea.
Dost thou call me fool, boy?
Foo.
All thy other titles thou hast given away; that
thou wast born with.
Ken.
This is not altogether fool, my lord.
Foo.
No, 'faith, lords and great men will not let me;
if I had a monopoly out, they would have part on't note:
and ladies note too, they will not note let me have all fool note to
myself; they'll be snatching.—Give me an egg, nuncle, note
and I'll give thee two crowns.
Lea.
What two crowns shall they be?
Foo.
Why, after I have cut the egg i'th' middle,
and eat up the meat, the two crowns of the egg. When
thou clovest thy crown note in the middle note, and gavest away
both parts, thou borest thine ass note on thy back over the
dirt: Thou had'st little wit in thy bald crown, when
thou gav'st thy golden one away. If I speak like myself
-- 26 --
in this, let him be whipt that first finds it so.
Fools had ne'er14Q1326 less grace in note a year;
[singing.
for wise men are grown foppish;
and know not how their wits to wear, note
their manners are so apish.
Lea.
When were you wont to be so full of songs,
sirrah?
Foo.
I have used note it, nuncle, ever since thou mad'st
thy daughters thy mothers: note for when thou gavest them
the rod, and putest down thine own breeches,
Then they for sudden joy did weep,
[singing.
and I for sorrow sung,
that such a king should play bo-peep,
and go the fool note among.
Pr'ythee, nuncle, keep a school-master that can teach
thy fool to lye; I would fain learn to lye note.
Lea.
If you note lye, sirrah, note we'll have you whipt.
Foo.
I marvel, what kin thou and thy daughters
are: they'll have me whipt for speaking true, thou'lt note
have me whipt for lying; and, sometimes note, I am whipt
for holding my peace. I had rather be any kind of
thing, than a fool: and yet I would not be thee, nuncle;
thou hast pared thy wit o'both sides, and left nothing
in the middle: Here comes one of the parings.
Enter Goneril.
Lea.
How now, daughter? what makes that frontlet on?
Methinks, note you are too much of late note i'the frown.
Foo.
Thou wast a pretty fellow, when thou had'st
no need to care for her frowning; now thou art note an
O without a figure: I am better than thou art now;
I am a fool, thou art nothing.—Yes, forsooth, [to Gon.]
I will hold my tongue; so your face bids me, though
-- 27 --
you say nothing. Mum, mum,
He that keeps nor crust note nor crum,
Weary of all, shall want some.—
That's a shell'd peascod.
[to Kent, shewing Lear.
Gon.
Not only, sir, this your all-licenc'd fool,
But other of your insolent retinue
Do hourly carp and quarrel; breaking forth
In rank and not-to-be-endured riots. Sir,
I had thought, by making this well known unto you,
To have found a safe redress; but now grow fearful,
By what yourself too late have spoke and done,
That you protect this course, and put it on note
By your allowance; which if you should, the fault
Would not 'scape censure, nor the redresses note sleep;
Which, in the tender of a wholesome weal,
Might in their working do you that offence,
Which else note were shame, that then necessity
Will call discreet proceeding. note
Foo.
For you trow, nuncle, note
The hedge-sparrow fed the cuckoo so long,
That it had it's head note bit off by it's young:
So, out went the candle, and we were left darkling.
Lea.
Are you our daughter?
Gon.
Come, sir, note
I would, you would make use of that good note wisdom
Whereof I know you are fraught; and put away
These dispositions, which of late transport note you
From what you rightly are.
Foo.
May not an ass know when the cart draws the
horse?—Whoop, Jug! I love thee.
Lea.
Does any here14Q1327 know me?—This is not Lear:
Does Lear walk thus? speak thus?—Where are his eyes?
-- 28 --
Either his notion weakens, his discernings
Are lethargy'd,—Ha! waking? 'Tis not so.—
Who is it that can tell me who I am?
Foo.
Lear's shadow.
Lea.
Your name, fair gentlewoman? note
Gon.
This admiration, sir, is note much o'the favour
Of other your new pranks. I do beseech you
To note understand my purposes aright:
You, as you are old and reverend, should note be wise:
Here do you keep a hundred note knights and squires;
Men so disorder'd, so debauch'd note, and bold,
That this our court, infected with their manners,
Shews like a riotous inn: epicurism and lust
Make note it note more like a tavern, or a brothel,
Than a grac'd palace. note The shame itself doth speak
For instant remedy: Be then desir'd note
By her, that else will take the thing she begs,
A little to14Q1328 disquantity your train;
And the remainder note, that shall still depend,
To be such men as may besort your age,
And know note themselves and you.
Lea.
Darkness and devils!—
Saddle my horses; call my train together.—
Degenerate bastard! I'll not trouble thee;
Yet have I left a daughter.
Gon.
You strike my people; and your disorder'd rabble
Make servants of their betters.
Enter Albany.
Lea.
Woe, that note too late repents, note—14Q1329O, sir, are you come? note
Is it your will? speak, sir.—Prepare my horses. note—
Ingratitude, thou marble-hearted fiend,
More hideous, when thou shew'st thee in a child,
-- 29 --
Than the sea-monster!
Alb.
Pray, sir, be patient. note
Lea.
Detested kite, [to Goneril.] thou ly'st note:
My train are men of choice and rarest parts,
That all particulars of duty know;
And in the most exact regard support
The worships of their name.—O most small fault,
How ugly didst thou in Cordelia shew!
Which, like note an engine, wrench'd my frame of nature
From the fixt place; drew from my heart all love,
And added to the gall. O Lear, Lear, Lear,
Beat at this gate, [striking his Head] that let thy folly in,
And thy dear judgment out!—Go, go, my people.
Alb.
My lord, I am guiltless, as I am ignorant
Of what hath mov'd you. note
Lea.
It may be so, my lord.—
Hear, nature! hear, dear goddess; hear a father!
Suspend note thy purpose, if thou didst intend
To make this creature fruitful!
Into her womb convey sterility;
Dry up in her the organs of increase;
And from her derogate body never spring
A babe to honour her! If she must teem,
Create her child of spleen; that it may live,
And be a thwart disnatur'd note torment to her!
Let it stamp wrinkles in her brow of youth;
With cadent tears note fret channels in her cheeks;
Turn all her mother's pains, and benefits,
To laughter and contempt; that she may feel note
How sharper than a serpent's tooth it is
To have a thankless child! note—Away, away.
Alb.
Now, gods that we adore, whereof comes this?
-- 30 --
Gon.
Never afflict yourself to know note the cause;
But let his disposition have that scope
That dotage note gives it.
Lea.
What, fifty of my followers, at a clap!
Within a fortnight!
Alb.
What's the matter, sir?
Lea.
I'll tell thee;—Life and death! [to Gon.] I am asham'd
That thou hast power to shake my manhood thus:
That these hot tears, which break note from me perforce,
Should make thee worth them. Blasts and fogs upon thee!
The untented woundings note of a father's curse
Pierce every sense about thee!—Old note fond eyes,
Beweep this cause again note, I'll pluck you out; note
And cast you, with the waters that you lose note,
To temper clay.—Ha! is note it come to this?
Let it be so: note—I have another daughter, note
Who, I note am sure, is kind and comfortable;
When she shall hear this of thee, with her nails
She'll flea thy note wolfish visage. Thou shalt find,
That I'll resume the shape which thou dost think
I have cast off for ever; thou shalt, I warrant thee. note14Q1330
[Exeunt Lear, Kent, Gen. and Att.
Gon.
Do you mark that, my lord? note
Alb.
I cannot be so partial, Goneril,
To the great love I bear you,—
Gon.
Pray you, content.—
What, Oswald, ho!—
You, sir, more knave note than fool, after your master.
Foo.
Nuncle Lear, nuncle Lear, tarry, take note the fool
with thee. note—
A fox, when one has caught her,
And such a daughter,
-- 31 --
Should sure to the slaughter,
If my cap would buy a halter;
So the fool follows after.
[Exit. note
Gon.
This man hath had good counsel: A hundred knights!
'Tis politick, and safe, to let him keep,
At point, a hundred knights. Yes, that on every dream,
Each buz, each fancy, each complaint, dislike,
He may enguard his dotage with their powers,
And hold our lives in mercy. note—Oswald, I say!—
Alb.
Well, you may fear too far.
Gon.
Safer than trust too far:
Let me still take away the harms I fear,
Not fear still to be taken. I know his heart:
What he hath utter'd, I have writ my sister;
If she sustain him and his hundred knights,
When I have shew'd the unfitness,—How now, Oswald?
Enter Steward.
What, have you writ that letter to my sister?
Ste.
Ay, madam.
Gon.
Take you some company, and away to horse:
Inform her full of my particular fear; note
And thereto add such reasons of your own,
As may compact it more: So, get you gone;
And hasten your return. note [Exit Ste.] No, no, my lord,
This milky gentleness note, and course of yours,
Though I condemn it not, note yet, under pardon,
You are much more at task for want note of wisdom,
Than prais'd for note harmful mildness.
Alb.
How far your eyes may pierce, I cannot tell;
Striving to better, oft we note mar what's well.
Gon.
Nay, then—
Alb.
Well, well, the event.
[Exeunt.
-- 32 --
SCENE V.
Court before the same.
Enter Lear, Kent, and Fool.
Lea.
Go you before14Q1331 to Glocester with these &dagger2; letters:
acquaint my daughter no further with any thing you
know, than comes from her demand out of the letter: If
your diligence be not speedy, I shall be there afore note you.
Ken.
I will not sleep, my lord, 'till I have delivered note
your letter.
[Exit Kent.
Foo.
If a man's brains note were in's heels, wer't not in
danger of kibes?
Lea.
Ay, boy.
Foo.
Then, I pr'ythee, be merry; thy wit shall not go note slip-shod.
Lea.
Ha, ha, ha.
Foo.
Shalt see, thy other daughter will use thee
kindly: for though she's as like this, as a crab is like
an apple, yet I can tell what note I can tell.
Lea.
What can'st tell, boy? note
Foo.
She'll taste as like this, as a crab does to note a crab.
Thou can'st tell note why one's nose stands i'the middle of
one's face? note
Lea.
No.
Foo.
Why, to keep one's eyes note on either side one's
nose note note; that what a man cannot smell out, he may note spy
into.
Lea.
I did her wrong:
Foo.
Can'st tell how an oister makes his shell?
Lea.
No.
Foo.
Nor I neither; but I can tell why a snail has a house.
Lea.
Why?
Foo.
Why, to put his head in; not to give it away
to note his daughters, note and leave his horns without a case.
-- 33 --
Lea.
I will forget my nature. So kind a father!—
Be my horses ready?
Foo.
Thy asses are gone about 'em. The reason why
the seven stars are no more than seven, is a pretty reason.
Lea.
Because they are not eight?
Foo.
Yes, indeed: note Thou would'st make a good fool.
Lea.
To take it again perforce,—Monster, ingratitude!
Foo.
If thou wert my fool, nuncle, I'd have thee
beaten for being old before thy time.
Lea.
How's that?
Foo.
Thou should'st not have been old, 'till thou note hadst been wise.
Lea.
O, let me not be mad, not mad, sweet heaven!
Keep me in temper; I would not be mad!— note
Enter Gentleman.
How now! note Are the horses ready?
Gen.
Ready, my lord.
Lea.
Come, boy.
[Exeunt Lear, and Gentleman.
Foo.
She that is a maid note now, and laughs at my departure,
Shall not be a maid long, unless things note be cut shorter.
[to the Audience, as he goes out.
ACT II.
SCENE I.
A Room in Gloster's Castle.
Enter Edmund, and Curan, meeting.
Edm.
Save thee, Curan.
Cur.
And you, sir. I have been with your father;
and given him notice, that the duke of Cornwal, and
Regan note his dutchess, will be here with him to-night. note
-- 34 --
Edm.
How comes that?
Cur.
Nay, I know not: You have heard of the news
abroad; I mean, the whisper'd ones, for they are note yet
but ear-kissing note arguments?
Edm.
Not I; Pray you, what are they?
Cur.
Have you heard of no likely wars toward, note
'twixt the dukes note of Cornwal and Albany?
Edm.
Not a word.
Cur.
You may do note then, in time. Fare you well, sir.
[Exit Curan.
Edm.
The duke be here to-night? The better! Best!
This weaves itself perforce into my business!
My father hath set guard to take my brother;
And I have one thing, of a queazy question,
Which I must act:—Briefness, and fortune, note work!—
Brother, a word, descend; brother, I say;
Enter Edgar.
My father watches:—O sir, note fly this place;
Intelligence is given where you are hid;
You have now the good advantage of the night:—
Have you not spoken 'gainst note the duke of Cornwal? note
He's coming hither; now, i'the night, i'the haste,
And Regan with him; Have you nothing said14Q1332
Upon his party 'gainst the duke of Albany?
Advise yourself. note
Edg.
I am sure on't, not a word.
Edm.
I hear my father coming,—Pardon me;
In cunning, I note must draw my sword upon you:
Draw; note Seem to defend yourself: Now quit you well.
Yield; come before my father;—Light, ho, here! note—
Fly, brother; note torches, note torches:—[Exit Edg.] so, farewel.
Some blood drawn on me would beget opinion
-- 35 --
Of my more fierce endeavour: I have seen drunkards
Do more than this † in sport.—Why, father, father!
Stop, stop! No help?
Enter Gloster, and Servants with Torches.
Glo.
Now, Edmund, where's note the villain?
Edm.
Here stood he in the dark, his sharp sword out,
Mumbling of note wicked charms, conjuring the moon
To stand note his note auspicious mistress:—
Glo.
But where is he?
Edm.
Look, sir, I bleed.
Glo.
Where is the villain, Edmund?
Edm.
Fled this † way, sir. When by no means he could—
Glo.
Pursue him, ho; note go after.—[Exit Servant.] By no means what?
Edm.
Persuade me to the murder of your lordship;
But that I told him, the revenging gods note
'Gainst parricides did all their thunders note bend;
Spoke, with how manifold and strong a bond
The child was bound to the father;—Sir, in fine, note
Seeing how lothly opposite I stood
To his unnatural purpose, in fell note motion,
With his prepared sword, he charges home
My unprovided body, lanc'd note note mine note arm:
But when note he saw my best alarum'd spirits,
Bold in the quarrel's right, note rouz'd to the encounter;
Or whether 'gasted by the noise I made,—
But suddenly note he fled.
Glo.
Let him fly far;
Not in this land shall he remain uncaught;
And, found, dispatch'd:14Q1333 The note noble duke my master,
My worthy arch and patron note, comes to-night:
By his authority I will proclaim it,
-- 36 --
That he, which finds note him, shall deserve our thanks,
Bringing the murderous coward to note the stake;
He, that conceals him, death.
Edm.
When I dissuaded him from his intent,
And found him pight to do it, with curst speech
I threaten'd to discover him: He reply'd,
Thou unpossessing bastard, dost thou think,
If I would stand against thee, could the reposure note
Of any trust, virtue, or worth, in thee
Make thy words faith'd? No: what I should note deny,
(As this I would; ay, note though thou didst produce
My very character) would turn note it all
To thy suggestion, plot, and damned practice: note
And thou must make a dullard of the world,
If they not thought the profits of my death
Were very pregnant and potential spurs note
To make thee seek it.
Glo.
Strong and fasten'd note villain!
[Trumpets within.
Would he deny his letter, said he? note—I never got him. note—
Hark, the duke's trumpets! I know not why he note comes:—
All ports I'll bar; the villain shall not scape;
The duke must grant me that: besides, his picture
I will send far and near, that all the kingdom
May have due note note of him: and of my land,
Loyal and natural boy, I'll work the means
To make thee capable.
[Flourish.
Enter Cornwal, Regan, and Attendants.
Cor.
How now, my noble friend? since I came hither,
(Which I can call but now) I have heard strange news. note
Reg.
If it be true, all vengeance comes too short,
Which can pursue the offender. How does my note lord?
Glo.
O, note madam, my old heart is crack'd, is crack'd! note
-- 37 --
Reg.
What, did my father's godson seek your life?
He whom my father nam'd? your Edgar?
Glo.
O, lady note, lady, shame would have it hid!
Reg.
Was he not companion with the riotous knights
That tend note note upon my father?
Glo.
I know not, madam:
It is too bad, too bad.
Edm.
Yes, madam, he was. note
Reg.
No marvel then, though he were ill affected;
'Tis they have put him on the old man's death,
To have the expence and waste of his note revenues.
I have this present evening from my sister
Been well inform'd of them; and with such cautions,
That, if they come to sojourn at my house,
I'll not be there.
Cor.
Nor I, assure thee, Regan.—
Edmund, I hear note that you have shewn your father
A child-like office.
Edm.
'Twas my duty, sir.
Glo.
He did bewray note his practise; and receiv'd
This hurt you see, striving to apprehend him.
Cor.
Is he pursu'd?
Glo.
Ay, my good lord.
Cor.
If he be taken, he shall never more
Be fear'd of doing harm: make your own purpose
How in my strength you please.—For note you, Edmund,14Q1334
Whose virtue and obedience doth this instant note
So much commend itself, you shall be ours;
Natures of such deep trust we shall much need;
You we first seize on.
Edm.
I shall serve you, sir, note
Truly, however else.
-- 38 --
Glo.
For him I thank your grace.
Cor.
You know not why we came note to visit you,—
Reg.
Thus out of season; threading note dark-ey'd night.
Occasions, noble Gloster, of some price note,
Wherein we must have use of your advices: note
Our father he hath writ, so hath our sister,
Of differences, note which I best thought it fit
To answer from our home; note the several messengers
From hence attend dispatch. Our good old friend,
Lay comforts to your bosom; and bestow
Your needful counsel to our business, note
Which craves the instant use.
Glo.
I serve you, madam:
Your graces are right welcome.
[Exeunt.
SCENE II.
Before the Castle.
Enter Kent, and Steward, meeting.
Ste.
Good even to thee, friend: Art of the house? note
Ken.
Ay.
Ste.
Where may we set our horses?
Ken.
I' th' note mire.
Ste.
Pr'ythee, if thou love me, note tell me.
Ken.
I love thee not.
Ste.
Why, then I care not for thee.
Ken.
If I had note thee in Lipsbury pinfold, I would make
thee care for me.
Ste.
Why dost thou use me thus? I know thee not.
Ken.
Fellow, I know thee.
Ste.
What dost thou know me for?
Ken.
A knave, a rascal, an eater of broken meats; a
base, proud, shallow, beggarly, three-suited, hundred-pound,
filthy worsted-stocking knave; a lilly-liver'd,
-- 39 --
action-taking knave; a note whorson glass-gazing, super-serviceable,
finical rogue; one-trunk-inheriting slave; one
that would'st be a bawd, in way of good service, and art
nothing but the composition of a knave, beggar, coward,
pandar, and the son and heir of a mungrel bitch: one note
whom I will beat into clamorous whining, note if thou deny'st
the least syllable of thy addition note.
Ste.
Why, note what a monstrous fellow art thou, thus to
rail on one, that is neither known of thee, nor knows thee?
Ken.
What a brazen-fac'd varlet art thou, to deny
thou knowest note me? Is it two days, since I tript up thy
heels, and beat thee, before note the king? Draw, you rogue:
for, though it be night, the note moon shines; I'll make a sop
o'the moon-shine of you: Draw, note you whorson cullionly
barber-monger, draw.
Ste.
Away; I have nothing to do with thee.
Ken.
Draw, you rascal: you come with letters note against
the king; and take vanity, the puppet's, part, against the
royalty14Q1335, her note father: Draw, you rogue, or I'll so carbonado
your shanks: draw, you rascal; come your ways.
Ste.
Help, ho! murther! help!
Ken.
Strike you, slave; stand, rogue; stand, you neat
slave, strike.
Ste.
Help, ho! murther, note murther!
Enter Edmund, with his Sword drawn;
Cornwal, Regan, Gloster, and Servants.
Edm.
How now? What's the matter? Part. note
Ken.
With you, goodman boy, if you note please; come,
I'll flesh you; come on, young master.
Glo.
Weapons! arms! What's the matter here?
Cor.
Keep peace, upon your lives;
-- 40 --
He dies, that strikes again: What is the matter?
Reg.
The messengers from our sister and the king.
Cor.
What is your difference? speak.
Ste.
I am scarce in breath, my lord.
Ken.
No marvel, you have so bestir'd your valour&dotup;
You cowardly rascal, nature disclaims in thee;14Q1336
A tailor made thee.
Cor.
Thou art a strange fellow:
A tailor make a man?
Ken.
Ay, note a tailor, sir: a stone-cutter, or a painter,
could not have made him so ill, though they had note been
but two years o'the note trade.
Cor.
Speak note yet, how grew your quarrel?
Ste.
This ancient ruffian, sir, whose life I have spar'd
At suit of his grey beard,—
Ken.
Thou whorson zed! thou unnecessary letter!—
My lord, if you will note give me leave, I will note tread this unbolted
villain into mortar, and daub the wall of a jakes note
with him.—Spare my grey beard, you wag-tail?
Cor.
Peace, sirrah: note
You beastly knave, know you no note reverence?
Ken.
Yes, sir; but anger has a note priviledge.
Cor.
Why art thou angry?
Ken.
That such a slave as this should wear a sword,
Who wears note no honesty. Such smiling rogues as these,
Like rats, oft bite the holy cords atwain note
Which are note too intrince to unloose: sooth note every passion
That in the nature of their lords rebels note;
Bring oil note to fire, snow to the note colder moods:
Renege, affirm, note and turn their halcyon beaks
With every gale and vary note of their masters;
As knowing nought, like dogs, but note following.—
-- 41 --
A plague upon your epileptick visage!
Smile you my speeches, as I were a fool?
Goose, if I note had you upon Sarum plain,
I'd drive you note cackling home to Camelot.
Cor.
What, art thou mad, old fellow?
Glo.
How fell you out? say that.
Ken.
No contraries hold more antipathy,
Than I and such a knave.
Cor.
Why dost thou call him knave? What is his fault? note
Ken.
His countenance likes me not.
Cor.
No more, perchance, does mine, note nor his, nor hers. note
Ken.
Sir, 'tis my occupation to be plain;
I have seen better faces in my time,
Than stands on note any shoulder that I see
Before me at this instant.
Cor.
This is some fellow, note
Who, having been prais'd for bluntness, doth affect
A saucy roughness; and constrains the garb,
Quite from his nature: He cannot flatter, he,—
An honest mind and plain,—he must note speak truth:
An they will take it note, so; if not, he's plain.
These kind of knaves I know, which in this plainness
Harbour more craft, and more corrupter ends,
Than twenty silly ducking observants,
That stretch their duties nicely.
Ken.
Sir, in good faith, in note sincere verity,
Under the allowance of your grand aspéct, note
Whose influence, like the wreath of radiant fire
On flickering note Phœbus' front,—
Cor.
What mean'st by note this?
Ken.
To go out of my dialect, which note you discommend
so much. I know, sir,14Q1337 I am no flatterer: he that
-- 42 --
beguil'd you, in a plain accent, was a plain knave; which,
for my part, I will not be, though I should win your displeasure
to entreat me to it.
Cor.
What was the note offence you gave him?
Ste.
I never gave him any:
It pleas'd the king his master, very late,
To strike at me, upon his misconstruction;
When he, conjunct, and note flattering his displeasure,
Tript me behind; being down, insulted, rail'd,
And put upon him such a deal of man, note
That worthy'd him, got praises of the king
For him attempting who was self-subdu'd;
And, in the fleshment of note this dread exploit, note
Drew on me here again.
Ken.
None of these rogues, and cowards,
But Ajax is their fool. note
Cor.
Fetch forth the stocks. note—
You stubborn ancient knave, note you unreverent note braggart,
We'll teach you:
Ken.
Sir, note I am too old to learn:
Call not your stocks for me: I serve the king;
On whose employment note I was sent to you:
You shall do note small respect note, show too note bold malice
Against the grace and person of my master,
Stocking his note messenger.
Cor.
Fetch forth the stocks:—
As I have life and honour, there shall he sit 'till noon.
Reg.
'Till noon! 'till night, my lord; and all night too.
Ken.
Why, madam, if I were your father's dog,
You should not note use me so.
Reg.
Sir, being his knave, I will.
[Stocks brought out.
Cor.
This is a fellow of the self note-same colour
-- 43 --
Our sister speaks note of:—Come, bring away the stocks.
Glo.
Let me beseech your grace not to do so:
His fault is much, and the good king his master note
Will check him for't: your purpos'd low correction
Is such, as basest and contemned'st note wretches,
For pilferings and most common trespasses,
Are punish'd with: the king must take it ill,
That he's so note slightly valu'd in his messenger,
Should have him thus restrain'd.
Cor.
I'll answer that.
Reg.
My sister may receive it much more worse,
To have her gentleman note abus'd, assaulted,
For following her affairs.—Put in his legs.— note
Come, my note lord note; away.
[Exeunt Cor. Reg. Edm. Ste. and Ser.
Glo.
I am sorry for thee, friend; 'tis the duke's pleasure, note
Whose disposition, all the world well knows,
Will not be rub'd, nor stopt: I'll entreat for thee.
Ken.
Pray, do not note, sir: I have watch'd, and travel'd hard;
Some time I shall sleep out note, the rest I'll whistle.
A good man's fortune may grow out at heels:
Give you good morrow!
Glo.
The duke's to blame in this; 'twill be ill taken note.
[Exit Gloster.
Ken.
Good king, that must approve the common saw!
Thou out of heaven's14Q1338 benediction com'st
To the warm sun.
Approach, thou beacon to this under globe,
That by thy comfortable beams I may
Peruse this † letter:—Nothing almost sees miracles note,
But misery:—I know, 'tis from Cordelia;
-- 44 --
Who hath most fortunately been inform'd
Of my obscured course; and shall find time
From this enormous state, seeking to give
Losses their remedies. All weary and o'er-watch'd note,
Take vantage, heavy eyes, not to behold
This shameful lodging.
Fortune, good night; smile once more, turn thy wheel!
Enter Edgar, at a Distance.
Edg.
I heard myself note proclaim'd;
And, by the happy hollow of a tree,
Escap'd the hunt. No port is free; no place,
That guard, and most unusual vigilance,
Does not note attend my taking. While note I may 'scape,
I will preserve myself: and am bethought
To take the basest and most poorest shape
That ever penury, in contempt of man,
Brought near to beast: my face I'll grime with filth;
Blanket my loins; elf all my hair with knots; note
And with presented nakedness out-face
The winds, and persecutions note of the sky.
The country gives me proof and precedent
Of Bedlam beggars, who, with roaring voices,
Strike in their numb'd and mortify'd bare note arms
Pins, wooden note pricks, nails, sprigs of rosemary;
And with this horrible object, from low farms, note
Poor pelting villages, sheep-cotes, and mills,
Sometime with lunatick bans, sometime with prayers,
Enforce their charity:—Poor Turlygood!14Q1339 poor Tom!—
That's something yet; Edgar I nothing am.
[Exit.
Enter Lear, Fool, and Gentleman. note
Lea.
'Tis strange, that they should so depart from home, note
-- 45 --
And not send back my messenger. note
Gen.
As I learn'd,
The night before there was no purpose in them note
Of this remove. note
Ken.
Hail to thee, noble master!
Lea.
Ha! Mak'st note thou this shame thy pastime?
Ken.
No, my lord. note
Foo.
Ha, ha; look, note he wears crewel note garters!14Q1340 Horses
are ty'd note by the heads; dogs note, and bears, by the neck;
monkies by the loins, and men by the legs note: when a man
is note over-lusty at legs, then he wears wooden nether stocks.
Lea.
What's he, that hath so much thy place mistook
To set thee here?
Ken.
It is both he and she,
Your son and daughter.
Lea.
No.
Ken.
Yes.
Lea.
No, I say.
Ken.
But I say, yea. note
Lea.
By Jupiter, I swear, no.
Ken.
By Juno, I swear, ay.
Lea.
They durst not do't;
They could not, would not note do't; 'tis worse than murder,
To do upon respect such violent outrage:
Resolve me, with all modest haste, which way
Thou might'st deserve, or they impose note, this usage,
Coming from us.
Ken.
My lord, when at their home
I did commend your highness' letters to them,
Ere I was risen from the place that shew'd
My duty kneeling, came there a reeking post,
Stew'd in his haste, half breathless, panting note forth,
-- 46 --
From Goneril his mistress, salutation; note
Deliver'd letters, spight of intermission,
Which presently they read: on whose contents note,
They summon'd up their meiny, note straight took horse;
Commanded me to follow, and attend
The leisure of their answer; gave me cold looks:
And meeting here the other messenger,
Whose welcome, I perceiv'd, had poison'd mine,
(Being the very fellow that of note late
Display'd so sawcily against your highness)
Having more man than wit about me, I drew;
He rais'd the house with loud and coward cries:
Your son and daughter found this trespass worth
The shame note which here it suffers.
Foo.
Winter's not gone yet, if the wild geese fly that way. note
Fathers, that wear rags,
Do make their children blind;
But fathers, that bear bags,
Shall see their children kind.
Fortune, that arrant whore,
Ne'er turns the key to the poor.—
But, for all this, thou shalt have as many dolors from thy note
dear note daughters, as thou can'st tell in a year.
Lea.
O, how this mother swells up toward my heart!
Hysterica note passio! down, thou climbing sorrow,
Thy element's below!—Where is this daughter?
Ken.
With the earl, sir, here note within.
Lea.
Follow me not, stay here. note
[Exit.
Gen.
Made you no more offence note than what you speak of?
Ken.
None. note
How chance the king comes with so small a train? note
-- 47 --
Foo.
An thou note had'st been set i'the stocks for that
question, thou had'st well deserv'd it.
Ken.
Why, fool?
Foo.
We'll set thee to school to an ant, to teach thee
there's no labouring in the winter. All that follow their
noses are led by their eyes, but blind men; and there's
not a nose among twenty, note but can smell him that's
stinking. Let go thy hold, when a great wheel runs
down a hill, lest it break thy neck with following it; note
but the great one that goes upward, note let him draw thee
after. When a wise man gives thee better counsel, give
me mine again: I would have none but knaves follow
it, since a fool gives it.
That sir14Q1341, that serves for note gain,
And follows but for form,
Will pack, when it 'gins note rain note,
And leave thee in the storm.
But I will tarry, the fool will stay,
And let the wise man fly:
The fool turns knave, that runs away;
The fool no knave note, perdy.
Ken.
Where learn'd you this, fool? note
Foo.
Not i' the stocks, fool.
Re-enter Lear, with Gloster.
Lea.
Deny to speak with me? They are sick, they are weary,
They have note travel'd hard to-night? note Meer fetches note;
The images of revolt and flying off!
Fetch me a better answer.
Glo.
My dear lord,
You know the fiery quality of the duke;
How unremoveable and fixt he is
-- 48 --
In his own course.
Lea.
Vengeance, plague, death, note confusion!
Fiery? what quality? Why note, Gloster, Gloster,
I'd speak with the duke of Cornwal, and his wife.
Glo.
Well, my good lord, I have inform'd them so. note
Lea.
Inform'd them! Dost thou understand me, man?
Glo.
Ay, my good lord.
Lea.
The king would speak with Cornwal; the dear father
Would with his daughter speak, commands her service: note
Are they inform'd of this?—My breath and blood! note
Fiery? the note fiery duke?—Tell the hot duke, that note—
No, but not yet; may be, he is not well:
Infirmity doth still neglect all office
Whereto our health is bound; we are not ourselves,
When nature, being opprest, commands note the mind
To suffer with the body: I'll forbear;
And am fallen note out with my more headier will,
To take the indispos'd and sickly fit
For the sound man. Death on my note state! wherefóre
Should he sit here? This act persuades me,
That this remotion of the duke and her
Is practice only. Give me my servant forth:
Go, note tell the duke and his wife, I'd speak note with them,
Now, presently; bid them come forth and hear me,
Or at their chamber door I'll beat the drum,
'Till it cry, Sleep to death.
Glo.
I'd have all well betwixt you.
[Exit.
Lea.
O me, my heart! my rising heart! note—but, down.
Foo.
Cry to it, nuncle, as the cockney did to the
eels, when she put note 'em i'the note paste alive; she knapt 'em note
o'th' coxcombs with a stick, and cry'd, Down, wantons,
down: 'Twas her brother, that, in pure kindness to his
-- 49 --
horse, butter'd his hay.
Re-enter Gloster, with Cornwal, Regan, and Servants.
Lea.
Good morrow to you both.
Cor.
Hail to your grace.
[Kent is set at Liberty.
Reg.
I am glad to see your highness.
Lea.
Regan, I think you are note; I know what reason
I have to think so: if thou should'st not be glad,
I would divorce me from thy mother's note tomb,
Sepulch'ring an adult'ress.—O, are you note free?
Some other time for that.—Beloved Regan,
Thy sister's naught: O Regan, she hath ty'd14Q1342
Sharp-tooth'd unkindness, like a vulture, † here,—
I can scarce speak to thee; thou'lt note not believe,
Of how note deprav'd a note quality—O Regan!
Reg.
I pray you, sir note, take patience; I have hope,
You less know how to value her desert,
Than she to scant her note duty.
Lea.
How is that? note
Reg.
I cannot think, my sister in the least
Would fail her obligation: If, sir, perchance,
She have restrain'd the riots of your followers,
'Tis on such ground, and to such wholesome end,
As clears her from all blame.
Lea.
My curses on her!
Reg.
O, sir, you are old;
Nature in you note stands on the very verge
Of her confíne: note you should be rul'd, and led
By some discretion, that discerns your state
Better than you yourself: Therefore, I pray you note
That to our sister you do make return;
Say, you have wrong'd her, sir. note
-- 50 --
Lea.
Ask her forgiveness?
Do you but note mark14Q1343 how this becomes note the house:
Dear daughter, I confess that I am old;
Age is unnecessary: on my knees I beg,
That you'll vouchsafe me raiment, bed, and food.
Reg.
Good sir, no more; these are unsightly tricks:
Return you to my sister.
Lea.
Never, Regan: note
She hath abated me of half my train;
Look'd black upon note me; strook note me with her tongue,
Most serpent-like, upon the very heart:
All the stor'd vengeances of heaven fall
On her ingrateful top! Strike her young bones,
You taking airs, with lameness!
Cor.
Fie, sir, fie. note
Lea. note
You nimble lightnings, dart your blinding flames
Into her scornful eyes! Infect her beauty,
You fen-suck'd fogs, drawn by the powerful sun,
O, fall note, and blast note her pride!
Reg.
O the blest gods!
So will you wish on me, when the rash mood is on. note
Lea.
No, Regan, thou shalt never have my curse;
Thy tender-hefted note nature shall not give
Thee o'er to harshness; her eyes are fierce, but thine
Do comfort, and not burn: 'Tis not in thee
To grudge my pleasures, to cut off my train,
To bandy hasty words, to scant my scizes,
And, in conclusion, to oppose the bolt
Against my coming in: thou better know'st
The offices of nature, bond of childhood,
Effects of courtesy, dues of gratitude;
Thy half o'the kingdom hast thou not forgot,
-- 51 --
Wherein I thee endow'd.
Reg.
Good sir, to the note purpose.
[Trumpet within.
Lea.
Who put my man i'the stocks?
Cor.
What trumpet's that?
Enter Steward.
Reg.
I know't, my sister's: this approves her letter, note
That she would soon be here.—'s your lady come?
Lea.
This is a slave, whose easy-borrow'd pride
Dwells in the fickle grace note of her he follows note:—
Out, varlet, from my sight.
Cor.
What means your grace?
Enter Goneril.
Lea.
Who stock'd my servant? Regan, I have good hope note
Thou did'st not know on't.—Who comes here? O heavens,
If you do love old men, if your sweet note sway
Allow obedience note, if yourselves note are old,
Make it your cause; send down, and take my part!—
Art not asham'd to look upon this beard?—
O, Regan, wilt thou take note her by the hand?
Gon.
Why not by the hand, sir? How have I offended?
All's not offence, that indiscretion finds,
And dotage terms so.
Lea.
O, sides, you are too tough!
Will you yet hold? note—How came my man i'the stocks?
Cor.
I set him there, sir: note but his own disorders
Deserv'd much less advancement.14Q1344
Lea.
You? did you?
Reg.
I pray you, father, being weak, seem so.
If, 'till the expiration of your month,
You will return and sojourn with my sister,
Dismissing half your train, come then to me;
I am now from home, and out of that provision
-- 52 --
Which shall be needful for your entertainment.
Lea.
Return to her, and fifty men dismiss'd?
No, rather I abjure all roofs, and choose
To wage against14Q1345 the enmity of the air;
To be a comrade with the wolf and owl,
Necessity's sharp pinch;—Return with her?
Why, the hot-blooded France, note that dowerless took
Our youngest born, I could as well be brought
To knee his throne, and, squire-like, pension beg note
To keep base life a-foot;—Return with her?
Persuade me rather to be slave and sumpter
To this † detested groom.
Gon.
At your choice, sir.
Lea.
I pr'ythee note, daughter, do not make me mad;
I will not trouble thee, my child; farewel:
We'll no more meet, no more see one another:—
But yet thou art my flesh, my blood, my daughter;
Or, rather, a disease that's in my note flesh,
Which I must needs call mine: thou art a bile,
A plague-sore, an embossed note carbuncle,
In my corrupted blood. But I'll not chide thee;
Let shame come when it will, I do not call it:
I do not bid the thunder-bearer shoot,
Nor tell tales note of thee to high-judging Jove:
Mend, when thou can'st; be better, at thy leisure:
I can be patient; I can stay with Regan,
I, and my hundred knights.
Reg.
Not altogether so, sir; note
I look'd not note for you yet, nor am provided
For your fit welcome: Give ear, sir, to note my sister;
For those that mingle reason with your passion, note
Must be content to think you old, note and so—
-- 53 --
But she knows what she does,
Lea.
Is this well spoken? note
Reg.
I dare avouch it, sir: What, fifty followers?
Is it not well? What should you need of more?
Yea, or so many? sith that both charge and danger
Speak note 'gainst so great a number? How, in one house note,
Should many people, under two commands,
Hold amity? 'Tis hard; almost impossible.
Gon.
Why might not you, my lord, receive attendance
From those that she calls servants, or from mine?
Reg.
Why not, my lord? If then they chanc'd to slack you note,
We could controul them: If you will come to me,
(For now I spy a danger) I intreat you
To bring but five and twenty; to no more
Will I give place, or notice.
Lea.
I gave you all;
Reg.
And in good time you gave it.
Lea.
Made you my guardians, my depositaries;
But kept a reservation to be follow'd
With such a number: What, must I come to you
With five and twenty, Regan? said you so?
Reg.
And speak it again, my lord; no more with me.
Lea.
Those wicked creatures14Q1346 yet do look well-favour'd note.
When others are more wicked, not being the worst
Stands in some rank of praise:—I'll go with thee;
Thy fifty yet doth double five and twenty,
And thou art twice her love.
Gon.
Hear me, my lord;
What need you five and twenty, ten, or five,
To follow in a house, where twice so many
Have a command to tend you?
-- 54 --
Reg.
What need note one?
Lea.
O, reason not the need: note our basest beggars
Are in the poorest thing superfluous:
Allow not nature more than nature needs,
Man's life is cheap note as beast's: thou art a lady;
If only to go warm were gorgeous,
Why, nature needs not what thou gorgeous wear'st,
Which scarcely keeps thee warm.—But, for true need,14Q1347
You heavens, give me that patience, patience I need! note
You see me here, you gods, a poor old man, note
As full of grief as age; wretched in both;
If it be you that stir note these daughters' hearts
Against their father, fool me not so much note
To bear it tamely; note touch me with noble anger!
O, let note not women's weapons, water-drops,
Stain my man's cheeks!—No, you unnatural hags,
I will have such revenges on you both,
That all the world shall,—I will do such things,—
What they are, yet I know not; but they shall be
The terrors of the earth. You think, I'll weep:
No, I'll not weep; I have full cause of weeping;
But This heart shall break into a thousand note flaws note,
Or note ere I'll weep: note—O, fool, I shall go mad.
[Exeunt Lear, Gloster, Kent, Gentleman,
and Fool. Storm heard at a Distance.
Cor.
Let us withdraw, 'twill be a storm.
Reg.
This house
Is little; the old man and his people cannot
Be well bestow'd.
Gon.
'Tis his own blame; he hath put
Himself from rest, and must needs taste his folly.
Reg.
For his particular, I'll receive him gladly,
-- 55 --
But not one follower.
Gon.
So am note I purpos'd.
Where is my lord of Gloster?
Re-enter Gloster.
Cor.
Follow'd note the old man forth:—he is return'd.
Glo.
The king is in high rage.
Cor.
Whither is he going?
Glo.
He calls to horse; but will I know not note whither.
Cor.
'Tis best to note give him way; he leads himself.
Gon.
My lord, entreat him by no means to stay.
Glo.
Alack, the night comes on, and the high winds note
Do sorely rustle; note for many miles about
There's scarce a note bush.
Reg.
O, sir, to wilful men,
The injuries, that they themselves procure,
Must be their schoolmasters: Shut up your doors;
He is attended with a desperate train;
And what they may incense him to, being apt
To have his ear abus'd, wisdom bids fear.
Cor.
Shut up your doors, my lord; 'tis a wild night;
My Regan counsels well: come out o'the storm.
[Exeunt.
ACT III.
SCENE I.
A Heath. A Storm, with Thunder and Lightning.
Enter Kent, and Gentleman, meeting.
Ken.
What's here,14Q1348 beside note foul weather?
Gen.
One minded like the weather, most unquietly.
Ken.
I know you; Where's the king?
Gen.
Contending with the fretful element: note
-- 56 --
Bids the wind blow the earth into the sea,
Or swell the curled waters 'bove the main,
That things might change, or cease: tears his white hair; note
Which the impetuous blasts, with eyeless rage,
Catch in their fury, and make nothing of:
Strives in his little world of man to out-scorn
The to-and-fro-conflicting wind and rain.
This night, wherein the cub-drawn bear would couch,
The lion and the belly-pinched wolf
Keep their fur dry, unbonneted he runs,
And bids what will take all.
Ken.
But who is with him?
Gen.
None but the fool; who labours to out-jest
His heart-strook injuries.
Ken.
Sir, I do know you;
And dare, upon the warrant of my art note,
Commend a dear thing to you. There is division,
Although as yet the face of it is cover'd note
With mutual cunning, 'twixt Albany and Cornwal:
Who have (as who have not, that their great stars note
Throne note and set high?) servants, who seem no less;
Which are to France the spies and speculations
Intelligent of our state: what hath been seen,
Either in snuffs and packings of the dukes;
Or the hard rein which both of them have born note
Against the old kind king; or something deeper,
Whereof, perchance, these are but furnishings;—
But, true it is, from France there comes a power note
Into this scatter'd kingdom; who already,
Wise in our negligence, have secret note foot note
In some of our best ports, and are at point
To shew their open banner. Now to you:
-- 57 --
If on my credit you dare build so far
To make your speed to Dover, you shall find
Some that will thank you, making just report
Of how unnatural and bemadding sorrow
The king hath cause to plain. I am a gentleman,
Of blood and breeding; and, from some knowledge and
Assurance of you, offer this office to you.
Gen.
I will talk further with you.
Ken.
No, do not.
For confirmation that I am much more
Than my out wall, open this &dagger2; purse, and take
What it contains: If you shall see Cordelia,
(As fear not note but you shall) shew her this † ring; note
And she will tell you who your fellow note is
That yet you do not know. Fie on this storm!
I will go seek the king.
Gen.
Give me your hand.
Have you no more to say?
Ken.
Few words, but, to effect, more than all yet;
That, when we have found the king, note (in which, your pain
That † way; I'll † this) he that first lights on him,
Holla the other.
[Exeunt severally.
SCENE II.
Another Part of the Heath. Storm still.
Enter Lear, and Fool.
Lea.
Blow, winds note, and crack your cheeks! rage! blow!
You note cataracts, and hurricanoes, spout
'Till you have drench'd note our steeples, drown'd the note cocks!
You sulphurous and thought-executing fires,
Vant-couriers of note oak-cleaving thunder-bolts,
Singe my note white head! And thou all-shaking thunder,
Strike flat note the thick rotundity of the world!
-- 58 --
Crack nature's molds; note all germens spill at once,
That make note ingrateful man!
Foo.
O nuncle, court holy-water in a dry house is
better than this rain-water out o'door. Good nuncle, in;
ask note thy daughters blessing; here's a night pitties note neither
wise men nor fools. note
Lea.
Rumble thy belly full! Spit, fire! Spout, rain!
Nor rain, wind, thunder, fire, are my daughters:
I tax not note you, you elements, with unkindness,
I never gave you kingdom, call'd you children,
You owe me no subscription; then note let fall
Your horrible pleasure; here I stand, your slave,
A poor, infirm, weak, and despis'd old man:—
But yet I call you servile ministers,
That will with two pernicious daughters join note
Your high-engender'd battles note, 'gainst a head
So old and white as † this. O, o, 'tis foul!
Foo.
He that has a house to put's head in, has a good
head-piece.
[sings.
The cod-piece, that will house,
before the head as any: note
the head and he shall louse;—
so beggars marry many.
The man that makes his toe
what he his heart should make,
shall of a note corn cry, woe,
and turn his sleep to wake.
—for there was never yet fair woman but she made
mouths in a glass.
Enter Kent.
Lea.
No, I will be the pattern of all patience,
I will say nothing.
-- 59 --
Ken.
Who's there?
Foo.
Marry, here's grace, and a cod-piece; that's,
a wise man, and a fool.
Ken.
Alas, sir, are you note here? things that love night,
Love not such nights as these; the wrathful skies
Gallow the very wanderers note of the dark,
And make note them keep their caves: Since I was man,
Such sheets of fire, such bursts of horrid thunder,
Such groans of roaring wind and rain, I never
Remember to have heard: man's nature cannot carry
The affliction, nor the fear. note14Q1349
Lea.
Let the great gods,
That keep this dreadful thund'ring o'er note our heads,
Find out their enemies now. Tremble, thou wretch,
That hast within thee undivulged crimes,
Unwhipt of justice: Hide thee, thou bloody hand;
Thou perjur'd, note and thou simular man note of virtue
That art incestuous: Caitiff, to pieces note shake,
That under covert and convenient seeming
Hast practis'd note on man's life: Close-pent-up guilts,
Rive your concealing continents, note and cry
These dreadful summoners grace. I am a man,
More sin'd against, than sinning. note
Ken.
Alack, bare-headed!
Gracious my lord, hard by here is a hovel;
Some friendship will it lend you 'gainst the tempest;
Repose you there: while I note to this hard house
(More hard than is the stone note whereof 'tis rais'd;
Which even but now, demanding after you, note
Deny'd me to come in) return, and force
Their scanted courtesy.
Lea.
My wits begin note to turn.—
-- 60 --
Come on, my boy: How dost, my boy? Art cold?
I am cold myself.—Where is this straw, my fellow?
The art of our necessities is strange,
That can note make vile things precious. Come, your hovel.—
Poor fool and knave, I have one part in my note heart
That's sorry yet note for thee.
Foo.
He that has a note little tiny wit,—
[sings.
with hey, ho, the wind and the rain—
must make content with his fortunes fit;
for the note rain it raineth every day.
Lea.
True, my good boy. note—Come, bring us to this hovel.
[Exeunt Lear, and Kent.
Foo.
This is a brave night to cool a courtezan. note
I'll speak a prophecy ere I go:14Q1350
When priests are more in word than matter;
When brewers mar their malt with water;
When nobles are their tailors' tutors;
No hereticks burn'd, but wenches' suitors:
When every case in law is right;
No squire in debt, nor no poor knight;
When slanders do not live in tongues;
Nor cut-purses come not to throngs;
When usurers tell their gold i'the field;
And bawds, and whores, do churches build;—
Then shall the realm of Albion
Come to great confusion:—
Then comes the time, who lives to see't,
That going shall be us'd with feet.
This prophecy Merlin shall make;
For I do live before his time.
[Exit.
SCENE III.
A Room in Gloster's Castle.
-- 61 --
Enter Gloster, and Edmund.
Glo.
Alack, alack, Edmund, I like not this unnatural
dealing: When I desired their leave that I might pity
him, they took from me the use of mine own house;
charged me, on pain of perpetual displeasure, note neither
to speak of him, intreat for him, nor any note way sustain
him.
Edm.
Most savage, and unnatural!
Glo.
Go to; say you nothing: There is division between note
the dukes; and a worse matter than that: I have
received a letter this night; 'tis dangerous to be spoken;
I have lock'd the letter in my closet: these injuries the
king now bears will be revenged home; there is part
of a power already footed note: we must incline to the king;
I will seek him, note and privily relieve him: go you, and
maintain talk with the duke, that my charity be not of
him perceived; if he ask for me, I am ill, and gone to
bed: if I note dye for it note, as no less is threaten'd me, the king
my old master must be relieved. There is some strange
thing note toward Edmund; pray you, be careful.
[Exit.
Edm.
This courtesy, forbid thee, shall the duke
Instantly know; and of that letter too:—
This seems a fair deserving, and must draw me note
That which my father loses; no less than all:
The younger rises, when the old doth fall. note
[Exit.
SCENE IV.
Another Part of the Heath;
a Hovel upon it. Storm still. Enter Kent,
Lear, and Fool.
Ken.
Here is the place, my lord; good my lord, enter:
The tyranny of the open night's too rough
For nature to endure.
-- 62 --
Lea.
Let me alone.
Ken.
Good my lord, enter here. note
Lea.
Wilt break my heart?
Ken.
I had rather break mine own: Good my lord, enter.
Lea.
Thou think'st 'tis much, that this contentious note storm
Invades us to the skin: so 'tis to thee;
But where the greater malady is fixt,
The lesser is scarce felt. Thou'dst note shun a bear;
But if thy flight lay toward the raging note sea,
Thou'dst meet the bear i'the mouth. When the mind's free,
The body's delicate: the tempest note in my mind
Doth from my senses take all feeling else,
Save what beats note there.—Filial ingratitude!
Is it not as this mouth should tear this hand,
For lifting food to't note?—But I will punish home: note—
No, I will weep no more.—In such a night note
To shut me out!—Pour on; I will endure:—
In such a night as this! O Regan, Goneril,
Your old kind father, whose frank heart gave all, note—
O, that way madness lies; let me shun that;
No more of that, note
Ken.
Good my lord, enter here. note
Lea.
Pr'ythee, go in thyself; seek thine own note ease;
This tempest will not give me leave to ponder
On things would hurt me more. But I'll go in:—
In, boy; go first.—You houseless poverty,— note
Nay, get thee in. [Exit Fool.] I'll pray, and then I'll sleep.— note
Poor naked wretches, wheresoe'er you are,
That 'bide the pelting of this pitiless storm, note
How shall your houseless heads, and unfed sides,
Your loop'd note and window'd raggedness, defend you
-- 63 --
From seasons such as these? O, I have ta'en
Too little care of this! Take physick, pomp;
Expose thyself to feel what wretches feel;
That thou may'st shake the superflux to them,
And shew the heavens more just.
[Poor Tom!
Edg. [within.]
Fathom and half, fathom and half: note
Fool runs out from the Hovel.
Foo.
Come not in here, nuncle, here's a spirit; help
me, help me!
Ken.
Give me thy hand.—Who's there?
Foo.
A spirit, a spirit; he note says, his name's note poor Tom.
Ken.
What art thou that dost grumble there i'the straw?
Come forth.
Enter Edgar, disguis'd like a Madman.
Edg.
Away! the foul fiend follows me!—
Through note the sharp hauthorn blows the cold wind. note—
Humph! note go to thy cold note bed,14Q1351 and warm thee.
Lea.
Did'st thou give all to thy daughters? note And art
thou come to this?
Edg.
Who gives any thing to poor Tom? whom the
foul fiend hath led through fire and through flame, note
through ford and note whirl-pool note, over bog and quag-mire;
that hath lay'd note knives under his pillow, and halters in
his pue; set rats-bane by his porridge; note made him
proud of heart, to ride on a bay trotting horse over
four-inch'd bridges, note to course his own shadow for a
traitor:—Bless thy five wits! Tom's a cold: O, do, de, de,
do, do, do: Bless thee from whirl-winds, star-blasting note,
and taking! Do poor Tom some charity, whom the foul
fiend vexes: There could I have him now, and there,
and there again, and there. note
Lea.
What, note have note his daughters brought him to this pass?—
-- 64 --
Could'st thou save nothing? Did'st thou give note them all?
Foo.
Nay, he reserv'd a blanket, else we had been
all shamed.
Lea.
Now, all the plagues, that in the pendulous air
Hang fated o'er men's faults, light on note thy daughters!
Ken.
He hath no daughters, sir.
Lea.
Death, traitor! nothing could have subdu'd nature
To such a lowness, but his unkind daughters.—
Is it the fashion, that discarded fathers
Should have thus little mercy on their flesh?
Judicious punishment! 'twas this flesh begot
Those pelican daughters.
Edg.
Pilicock sat on Pilicock hill;—Haloo, loo, loo. note
Foo.
This cold night will turn us all to fools and
madmen.
Edg.
Take heed of the note foul fiend: Obey thy parents;
keep thy word note justly; note swear not; commit not with man's
sworn spouse; set not thy sweet heart on proud array:—
Tom's a-cold.
Lea.
What hast thou been?
Edg.
A serving-man, proud in heart and mind;
that curl'd my hair, wore gloves in my cap, serv'd
the lust of my mistress's heart, and did the act of darkness
with her: swore as many oaths as I spake words,
and broke them in the sweet face of heaven: one, that
slept on the note contriving of lust, and wak'd to do it:
Wine lov'd I deeply; note dice dearly; and in woman, out-paramour'd
the Turk: False of heart, light of ear, bloody
of hand; note Hog in sloth, fox in stealth, wolf in greediness,
dog in madness, lion in prey. Let not the creaking
of shoes, nor the rustling note of silks, betray thy poor
-- 65 --
heart to woman: note Keep thy foot out of brothels, thy
hand out of plackets, note thy pen from lenders' books, and
defy the foul fiend.—Still through the hauthorn blows
the cold wind.—Ha! nenni;14Q1352 dolphin, my boy, my boy,
sesse; let note him trot by.
Lea.
Thou note wert better in thy grave, note than to answer
with thy uncover'd body this extremity of the skies.—
Is man no more than this? note Consider him well: Thou
ow'st the worm no silk, the beast no hide, the sheep
no wool, the cat no pérfume:—Ha! note here's three on's note
are sophisticated!—Thou art the thing itself: unaccommodated
man is no more but such a poor, bare,
forked animal as thou art.—Off, off, you lendings note;—
come, unbutton here. note
[tearing off his Cloaths; Kent and the Fool strive to hinder him.
Foo.
Pr'ythee, nuncle, be contented; 'tis a note naughty
night to swim in.—Now a little fire in a wild field note
were like an old letcher's heart; a small spark, all the
rest of's body note cold.—Look, here comes a walking fire.
Enter Gloster, with a Torch.
Edg.
This is the foul fiend Fliberdegibbet note: he begins
at curfeu, and walks 'till the first note cock; he gives the
web and the pin note, squints the note eye, and makes the harelip;
mildews the white wheat, and hurts the poor creature
of earth.
St Withold note14Q1353 footed thrice the wold;
He met the night-mare, and her nine-fold;
Bid her alight,
And her troth plight,
And, Aroint thee, witch, aroint thee! note
Ken.
How fares your grace?
Lea.
What's he?
-- 66 --
Ken.
Who's there? note What is't you seek?
Glo.
What are you there? Your names?
Edg.
Poor Tom; that eats the swimming frog, the
toad, the tad-pole, the wall-newt, and note the water-newt;
that in the fury of note his heart, when the foul fiend rages,
eats cow-dung for sallets, note swallows the old rat and the
ditch-dog, drinks the green mantle of the standing
pool; who is whipt from tything to tything, and stock-punish'd, note
and imprison'd; who hath had note three suits to
his back, six shirts to his body, horse to ride, and weapon
to wear,—
But mice, and rats, and such small deer,
Have been note Tom's food for seven long year.
Beware my follower:—Peace, Smolkin; note peace, thou fiend.
Glo.
What, hath your grace no better company?
Edg.
The prince of darkness is a gentleman;
Modo he's note call'd, and Mahu.
Glo.
Our flesh and blood, my lord, is grown so vile, note
That it doth hate what gets it.
Edg.
Poor Tom's a-cold.
Glo.
Go in with me; my duty cannot suffer
To obey in all your daughters' hard commands:
Though their injunction be to bar my doors,
And let this tyrannous night take hold upon you;
Yet have I ventur'd to come seek you out,
And bring you where both fire and food note is ready.
Lea.
First let me talk with this philosopher:—
What is the cause of thunder?
Ken.
Good my lord note, take his offer;
Go into the house.
Lea.
I'll talk a word with this same learned note Theban:—
What is your study?
-- 67 --
Edg.
How to prevent the fiend, and to kill vermine.
Lea.
Let me ask you one word in private.
Ken.
Impórtune him once more note to go, my lord,
His wits begin to unsettle.
Glo.
Can'st thou blame him?
His daughters seek his death:—Ah, that note good Kent!
He said, it would be thus: Poor banish'd man!—
Thou say'st, the king grows mad; I'll tell thee, friend,
I am almost mad myself: I had a son,
Now out-law'd from my blood, he sought note my life,
But lately, very late; I lov'd him, friend,—
No father his son dearer: true to note tell thee,
The grief hath craz'd note my wits. What a night's this?—
I do beseech your grace,—
Lea.
O, cry you mercy: note—
Noble philosopher, your company.
Edg.
Tom's a-cold.
Glo.
In, fellow, there, to the note hovel note; keep thee warm.
Lea.
Come, let's in all.
Ken.
This way, my lord.
Lea.
With him;
I will keep still with my philosopher.
Ken.
Good my lord, sooth him; let him take the fellow.
Glo.
Take him you on.
Ken.
On, sirrah; go with note us.
Lea.
Come, good Athenian.
Glo.
No words, no words; hush.
Edg.
Child Rowland to the dark tower come, note
&dagger3; &dagger3; &dagger3; &dagger3; &dagger3; &dagger3; &dagger3; &dagger3; &dagger3; &dagger3; &dagger3; &dagger3; &dagger3; &dagger3; &dagger3; &dagger3; &dagger3;
His word was still,—Fie, fo, and fum,
I smell the blood of a British man.14Q1354
[Exeunt.
-- 68 --
SCENE V.
A Room in Gloster's Castle.
Enter Cornwal, and Edmund.
Cor.
I will have my revenge, ere I depart his house. note
Edm.
How, my lord, I may be censur'd, that nature
thus gives way to loyalty, something fears me to think
of.
Cor.
I now perceive, it was not altogether your brother's
evil disposition made him seek his death; but a
provoking merit,14Q1355 set a'work by a reproveable badness
in himself.
Edm.
How malicious is my fortune, that I must re-repent note
to be just! This &dagger2; is the letter he note spoke of, which
approves him an intelligent party to the advantages of
France. O heavens! that this treason were not, or not note I
the detector!
Cor.
Go with me to the dutchess.
Edm.
If the matter of this paper be certain, you have
mighty business in hand.
Cor.
True, or false, it hath made thee earl of Gloster.
Seek out where thy father is, that he may be ready
for our apprehension.
&clquo;Edm.
&clquo;If I find him comforting the king, it will
stuff his suspicion more fully.&crquo;—I will persevere in
my course of loyalty, though the conflict be sore between
that and my blood.
Cor.
I will lay trust upon thee; and thou shalt find
a dearer father note in my love.
[Exeunt.
SCENE VI.
A Room in some
of the out-buildings of the Castle. Enter Gloster, Lear,
Kent, Fool, and Edgar.
-- 69 --
Glo.
Here is better than the open air; take it thankfully:
I will piece out the comfort with what addition
I can: I will not be long from you.
Ken.
All the power of his wits hath given way to
his note impatience: The gods reward your note kindness!
[Exit Gloster.
Edg.
Frateretto note calls me;14Q1356 and tells me, Nero is an
angler in the lake of darkness. Pray innocent, and note beware
the foul fiend.
Foo.
Pr'ythee, nuncle, tell me, whether a madman
be note a gentleman, note or a yeoman?
Lea.
A king, a king.
Foo.
No; he's a yeoman, that has a gentleman to his note
son: for he's a mad yeoman, that sees his son a gentleman
before him.
Lea.
To have a thousand with red burning spits
Come hizzing note in upon them:14Q1357
Edg.
The foul fiend bites my back. note
Foo.
He's mad, that trusts in the tameness of a wolf,
a horse's health, a boy's love, or a whore's oath.
Lea.
It shall be done, I will arraign them straight:—
Come, sit thou here, most learned justicer; note—
[to Edgar.
Thou, sapient sir, [to the Fool.] sit here.—Now, you she foxes!
Edg.
Look, where he stands and glares!—Wantest
thou eyes note at trial, madam?—
Come o'er the boorne note, Bessy, to me:
[singing.
Foo.
Her boat hath a leak,
and she must not speak
why she dares not come over to thee.
Edg.
The foul fiend haunts poor Tom in the voice of
a nightingale. Hop-dance cries in Tom's belly for two white
-- 70 --
herring. Croak not, black angel; I have no food for thee.
Ken.
How do you, sir? Stand you not so amaz'd:
Will you lye down and rest upon the cushions?
Lea.
I'll see their trial first;—Bring in the evidence.—
Thou robed man of justice, [to Edg.] take thy place;—
And thou, his yoke-fellow of equity,
[to the Fool.
Bench by his side:—you are of the commission,
[to Kent.
Sit you too.
Edg.
Let us deal justly.
[sings.
Sleepest, or wakest thou, jolly shephérd?
thy sheep be in the corn;
and for one blast of thy minikin mouth,
thy sheep shall take no harm.
Pur! the cat is grey.
Lea.
Arraign her first; 'tis Goneril. I here take my
oath before this honourable assembly, she note kick'd the
poor king her father.
Foo.
Come hither, mistress; Is your name Goneril?
Lea.
She cannot deny it.
Foo.
Cry you mercy, I took you for a joint note-stool.
Lea.
And here's another, whose warpt looks proclaim
What store her heart is made on:—Stop her there!
Arms, arms, sword, fire! Corruption in the place!—
False justicer, why hast thou let her 'scape?
Edg.
Bless thy five wits!
Ken.
O pity!—Sir, where is the patience now,
That you so oft have boasted to retain?
&clquo;Edg.
&clquo;My tears begin to take his part so much,&crquo;
&clquo;They'll mar note my counterfeiting.&crquo;
Lea.
The little dogs and all,
Tray, Blanch, and Sweet-heart, see, they bark at me.
Edg.
Tom will throw his head at them:—Avaunt,
-- 71 --
you curs!
Be thy mouth or black or white,
Tooth that poisons if it bite;
Mastiff, grey-hound, mungrel grim,
Hound, or spaniel, brach, or lym note,
Or bob-tail tight, or note trundle-tail;
Tom will make them weep note and wail:
For, with throwing thus my head,
Dogs leap the note hatch, and all are fled.
Do, do, de, de, &c. note
[singing.
Come, march to wakes and fairs, and market-towns:—
&clquo;Poor Tom, thy horn is dry.&crquo;
Lea.
Then let them anatomize Regan, see what
breeds about her heart: Is there any cause in nature,
that makes note these hard hearts?—You, sir, [to Edg.] I
entertain you note for one of my hundred; only, I do not
like the fashion of your garments: note you will say, they
are Persian; note but let them be chang'd.
Ken.
Now, good my lord, lye here, and rest note a while.
[pointing to a mean Couch.
Lea.
Make no noise, make no noise; draw the curtains;
so, so, so: We'll go to supper in the morning: note
So, so, so.
Foo.
And I'll go to bed at noon. note
Re-enter Gloster.
Glo.
Come hither, friend; Where is the king my master?
Ken.
Here, sir; but trouble him not, his wits are gone.
Glo.
Good friend, I pr'ythee take him in thy arms;
I have o'er-heard a plot of death upon him:
There is a litter ready; lay him in't note,
And drive toward note Dover, friend, where thou shalt meet
Both welcome and protection. Take up thy master:
-- 72 --
If thou should'st dally half an hour, his life,
With thine, and all that offer to defend him,
Stand in assured loss: note Take up, take up;
And follow me, that will to some provision
Give thee quick conduct. note
Ken.
Oppress'd nature sleeps:— note14Q1358
This rest might yet have balm'd thy broken senses note,
Which, if convenience will not allow,
Stand in hard cure.—Come, help to bear thy master;
Thou [to the Fool.] must not stay behind.
Glo.
Come, come, away.
[Exeunt Kent, Gloster, and the Fool, bearing off Lear.
Edg.
When we our betters see bearing our woes,
We scarcely think our miseries our foes.
Who alone suffers, suffers note most i'the mind;
Leaving free things, and happy shows, behind:
But then the mind much sufferance doth o'er-skip,
When grief hath mates, and bearing fellowship.
How light and portable my pain seems now,
When that, which makes me bend, makes the king bow;
He childed, as I father'd!—Tom, away:
Mark the high noises; and thyself bewray,
When false opinion, whose wrong thought defiles note thee,
In thy just proof, repeals, and reconciles thee.
What will hap more to-night?—Safe 'scape the king!—
Lurk, lurk.
[Exit.
SCENE VII.
A Room in the Castle.
Enter Cornwal, Regan, Goneril, Edmund, and Servants.
Cor.
Post speedily to my lord your husband; shew
him this &dagger2; letter: the army of France is landed:—Seek
-- 73 --
out the villain Gloster. note
[Exeunt some of the Servants.
Reg.
Hang him instantly.
Gon.
Pluck out his eyes.
Cor.
Leave him to my displeasure.—Edmund, keep
you our sister company; the revenges note we are bound to
take upon your traitorous father, are not fit for your beholding.
Advise note the duke, where you are going, to a
most festinate note preparation; we are bound to the like.
Our posts note shall be swift in intelligence note betwixt us.—
Farewel, dear sister;—farewel, my lord of Gloster.—
Enter Steward.
How now? Where's the king?
Ste.
My lord of Gloster hath convey'd him hence:
Some five or six and thirty of his knights,
Hot questrists note after him, met him at gate;
Who, with some other of the lord's dependants,
Are gone with him towards Dover; where they boast
To have well-armed friends.
Cor.
Get horses for your mistress.
Gon.
Farewel, sweet lord, and sister.
[Exeunt Goneril, Edmund, and Steward.
Cor.
Edmund, farewel.—Go, seek the traitor Gloster,
Pinion him like a thief, bring him before us:—
[Exeunt other Servants.
Though well note we may not pass upon his life
Without the form of justice; yet our power
Shall do a courtesy to our wrath, which men
May blame, but not controul.—Who's there? The traitor?
Re-enter Servants, with Gloster, Prisoner.
Reg.
Ingrateful fox! 'tis he.
Cor.
Bind fast his corky arms.
Glo.
What mean your graces?—Good my friends, consider
-- 74 --
You are my guests: do me no foul play, friends.
Cor.
Bind him, I say.
Reg.
Hard, hard:—O filthy traitor!
Glo.
Unmerciful lady as you are, I am none. note
Cor.
To this chair bind him:—Villain, thou shalt find—
Glo.
By the kind gods,14Q1359 'tis most ignobly done
To pluck me by the beard.
Reg.
So white, and such a traitor!
Glo.
Naughty lady,
These hairs, which thou dost ravish from my chin,
Will quicken, and accuse thee: I am your host;
With robbers' hands, my hospitable favours
You should not ruffle thus. What will you do?
Cor.
Come, sir, what letters had you late from France?
Reg.
Be simple-answer'd, note for we know the truth.
Cor.
And what confederacy have you with the traitors
Late footed note in the kingdom?
Reg.
To whose hands have you note sent the lunatick king?
Speak.
Glo.
I have a letter guessingly set down,
Which came from one that's of a neutral heart,
And not from one oppos'd.
Cor.
Cunning.
Reg.
And false.
Cor.
Where hast thou sent the king?
Glo.
To Dover.
Reg.
Wherefore to Dover?
Wast thou not charg'd at peril?—
Cor.
Wherefore to Dover?—
Let him first note answer that.
Glo.
I am ty'd to the stake,
And I must stand the course.
-- 75 --
Reg.
Wherefore to Dover? note
Glo.
Because I would not see thy cruel nails
Pluck out his poor old eyes; nor thy fierce sister
In his anointed flesh stick boarish note phangs.
The sea, with such a storm as his bare head note
In hell-black night endur'd, would have buoy'd up note,
And quench'd the stelled fires: note yet, poor old heart,
He holp note the heavens to rage.
If wolves had at thy gate howl'd that note dearn time, note
Thou should'st have said, Good porter, turn the key:
All cruels else subscrib'd: note—But I shall see
The winged vengeance overtake such children.
Cor.
See it shalt thou never:—Fellows, hold the chair:—
Upon these eyes note of thine I'll set my foot.
[Gloster is held down in his Chair, while Cornwal
plucks out one of his Eyes, and stamps on it.
Glo.
He, that will think to live 'till he be old,
Give me some help: O cruel! O ye gods! note
Reg.
One side will mock another; th' other too.
Cor.
If you see vengeance,—
1. S.
Hold your hand, my lord:
I have serv'd you ever since I was a child;
But better service have I never done you,
Than now to bid you hold.
Reg.
How now, you dog?
1. S.
If you did wear a beard upon your chin,
I'd shake it on this note quarrel: What do you mean?
Cor.
My villain!
[Draws, and runs at him.
1. S.
Nay, then note come on, and take the chance of anger.
[Draws too, and they fight.
Reg.
Give me thy sword;—A peasant stand up thus!
[snatches a Sword from an Att: and stabs him.
-- 76 --
1. S.
O, I am slain!—My lord, you have note one eye left
To see some mischief on him:—O!
[dies.
Cor.
Lest it see more, prevent it:—Out, vile jelly!
[dashing Gloster's other Eye to the Ground.
Where is thy lustre now?
Glo.
All dark and comfortless.—Where's my son Edmund?
Edmund, enkindle all note the sparks of nature,
To quit this horrid act.
Reg.
Out, treacherous note villain!
Thou call'st on him that hates thee: it was he
That made the overture of thy treasons to us;
Who is too good to pity thee.
Glo.
O my follies!
Then Edgar was abus'd.—
Kind gods, forgive me that, and prosper him!
Reg.
Go, thrust him out at gates, and let him smell
His way to Dover.—How is't, my lord? How look you?
Cor.
I have receiv'd a hurt: Follow me, lady.—
Turn out that eyeless villain; throw this slave
Upon the dunghill.—Regan, I bleed apace:
Untimely comes this hurt: Give me your arm.
[Exeunt Cornwal, and Regan. Servants
unbind Gloster, and lead him out.
2. S.
I'll never care what wickedness I do, note
If this man come to good.
3. S.
If she live long,
And, in the end, meet the old course of death,
Women will all turn monsters.
2. S.
Let's follow the old earl, and get the Bedlam
To lead him where he would; his roguish madness
Allows itself to any thing.
3. S.
Go thou; I'll fetch some flax, and whites of eggs,
-- 77 --
To apply to his bleeding face. Now, heaven help him!
[Exeunt severally.
ACT IV.
SCENE I.
The Heath.
Enter Edgar.
Edg.
Yet better thus, and known to be contemn'd,
Than still contemn'd and flatter'd. To be note worst,
The lowest, most note dejected thing note of fortune,
Stands still in esperance, note lives not in fear:
The lamentable change is from the best;
The worst returns to laughter. Welcome then, note
Thou unsubstantial air, that I embrace!
The wretch, that thou hast blown unto the worst,
Owes nothing to thy blasts.—But who comes here? note
Enter Gloster, and an old Man.
My father, poorly led?—World, world, o world!14Q1360
But that thy strange mutations make us wait thee note,
Life would not yield to age.
o. m.
O my good lord, I have been your tenant, and
your father's tenant, these fourscore years. note
Glo.
Away, get thee away; good friend, be gone:
Thy comforts can do me no good at all,
Thee they may hurt.
o. m.
You note cannot see your way.
Glo.
I have no way, and therefore want no eyes;
I stumbl'd when I saw: Full oft 'tis seen,
Our mean secures note us; and our meer defects
Prove our commodities. Ah, dear note son Edgar,
The food of thy abused father's wrath!
-- 78 --
Might I but live to see thee in my touch,
I'd say, I had eyes again.
o. m.
How now? Who's there?
&clquo;Edg.
&clquo;O gods! Who is't can say, I am at the worst? note&crquo;
&clquo;I am worse than e'er I was:&crquo;
o. m.
'Tis poor mad Tom.
&clquo;Edg.
&clquo;And worse I may be yet: The worst is not,&crquo;
&clquo;So long note as we can say, This is the worst.
o. m.
Fellow, where goest? note
Glo.
Is it a beggar-man?
o. m.
Madman and beggar too.
Glo.
He has note some reason, else he could not beg.
I'the last night's storm I such a fellow saw;
Which made me think a man a worm: My son
Came then into my mind; and yet my mind
Was then scarce friends with him: I have heard more since:
As flies to wanton note boys, are we to the gods;
They kill us note for their sport.
&clquo;Edg.
&clquo;How should this be? note—&crquo;
&clquo;Bad is the trade that must play fool note to sorrow,&crquo;
&clquo;Ang'ring itself and others.&crquo;—Bless thee, master!
Glo.
Is that the naked fellow?
o. m.
Ay, my lord.
Glo.
Then, pr'ythee, get thee gone: If note, for my sake,
Thou wilt o'er-take us, hence a note mile or twain,
I'the way towards Dover, note do it for ancient love;
And bring some covering for this naked soul,
Whom I'll note entreat to lead me.
o. m.
Alack, sir, he is mad.
Glo.
'Tis the times' plague, when madmen lead the blind:
Do as I bid thee, or rather do thy pleasure;
Above the rest, be gone.
-- 79 --
o. m.
I'll bring him the best 'parrel that I have,
Come on't what will.
[Exit old Man.
Glo.
Sirrah, naked fellow,—
Edg.
Poor Tom's a-cold.—&clquo;I cannot daub it further. note&crquo;
Glo.
Come hither, fellow.
&clquo;Edg.
&clquo;And yet I must. note&crquo;—Bless thy sweet eyes! they bleed.
Glo.
Know'st thou the way to Dover?
Edg.
Both stile and gate, horse-way and foot-path.
Poor Tom hath been scar'd out of his good wits: Bless
thee, good man's son, from note the foul fiend! note Five fiends14Q1361
have been in poor Tom in once: note of lust, as Obidicut;
Hobbididdance, prince of darkness; note Mahu, of stealing;
Modo, of murder; Fliberdegibbet, of mopping and mowing;
who since possesses chamber-maids and waiting-women.
So, bless thee, master!
Glo.
Here, take this &dagger2; purse, thou whom the heaven's plagues
Have humbl'd to all strokes: that I am wretched,
Makes thee the happier:—Heavens, deal so still!
Let the superfluous,14Q1362 and lust-dieting note man,
That slaves your note ordinance, that will not see
Because he doth not note feel, feel your power quickly;
So distribution should undo excess, note
And each man have enough.—Dost thou know Dover?
Edg.
Ay, master.
Glo.
There is a cliff, whose high and bending head
Looks fearfully on the note note confined deep:
Bring me but to the very brim of it,
And I'll repair the misery thou dost bear
With something rich about me: from that place
I shall note no leading need.
Edg.
Give me thy arm;
Poor Tom shall lead thee.
[Exeunt.
-- 80 --
SCENE II.
Before Albany's Palace.
Enter Goneril, and Edmund; Steward meeting them.
Gon.
Welcome, my lord: I marvel, our mild husband
Not met us on the way:—Now, where's your master?
Ste.
Madam, within; but never man so chang'd:
I told him of the army that was landed;
He smil'd at it: I told him, you were coming;
His answer was, The worse: of Gloster's treachery,
And of the loyal service of his son,
When I inform'd him, then he call'd me sot;
And told me, I had turn'd the wrong side out:—
What most he should dislike, note seems pleasant to him;
What like, offensive.
Gon.
Then shall you go no further.
It is the cowish terror of note his spirit,
That dares not undertake: he'll not feel wrongs,
Which tye him to an answer: Our wishes on the way
May prove effects. Back, Edmund, to note my brother;
Hasten his musters, and conduct his powers:
I must change arms at note home, and give the distaff
Into my husband's hands. This trusty servant
Shall pass between us: ere long you are like to hear,
If you dare venture note in your own behalf,
A mistress's command. note Wear &dagger2; this; spare speech;
Decline your head: this kiss, if it durst speak,
Would stretch thy spirits up into the air;—
Conceive, and fare thee well note.
Edm.
Yours in the ranks of death.
Gon.
My most dear Gloster!
[Exit Edmund.
O, the strange difference of man and man!— note
-- 81 --
To thee a note woman's services are due;
My fool usurps note my body.
Ste.
Madam, here comes my lord.
[Exit Steward.
Enter Albany.
Gon.
I have been worth the whistle.
Alb.
O Goneril,
You are not worth the dust which the rude note wind
Blows in your face. I fear note your14Q1363 disposition:
That nature, which contemns it's origin,
Cannot be border'd certain in itself;
She that herself will sliver and disbranch
From her material sap, perforce must wither,
And come to deadly use.
Gon.
No more; the text is foolish.
Alb.
Wisdom and goodness to the vile seem vile:
Filths savour but themselves. What have you done?
Tigers, not daughters, what have you perform'd?
A father, and a gracious aged man,
Whose reverend head the note rugged bear note would lick,
Most barbarous, most degenerate! have you madded.
Could my good brother suffer you to do it?
A man, a prince, by him so benefited note?
If that the heavens do not their visible spirits
Send quickly down to tame the vile offences,
Humanity must perforce prey on itself,
Like monsters of the deep.
Gon.
Milk-liver'd man!
That bear'st a cheek for blows, a head for wrongs;
Who hast not in thy brows an eye discerning note
Thine honour from thy suffering; that not know'st, note14Q1364
Fools do those note villains pity, who are punish'd
Ere they have done their mischief. Where's thy drum?
-- 82 --
France spreads his banners in our noiseless land;
With plumed helm thy slayer begins note his threats;
While thou, a moral fool, sit'st still, and cry'st,
Alack, why does he so?
Alb.
See thyself, devil!
Proper deformity seems not in the fiend
So horrid, as in woman.
Gon.
O vain fool!
Alb.
Thou chang'd and self-converted note thing, for shame note
Be-monster not thy feature. Were it my fitness
To let these hands obey my boiling blood,
They are apt enough to dislocate and tear
Thy flesh and bones: Howe'er thou art a fiend,
A woman's shape doth shield thee.
Gon.
Marry, your manhood now,—
Enter a Messenger. note
Alb.
What news?
Mes.
O my good lord, the duke of Cornwal's dead;
Slain by his servant, going to put out
The other eye of Gloster.
Alb.
Gloster's eyes!
Mes.
A servant that he bred, thrill'd with note remorse,
Oppos'd against the act, bending his sword
To his great master; who, thereat enrag'd note,
Flew on him, and among'st them fell'd him dead: note
But not without that harmful stroke, which since
Hath pluck'd him after.
Alb.
This shews you are above,
You justices, note that these our nether crimes
So speedily can venge.—But, o poor Gloster!
Lost he his other eye?
Mes.
Both, both, my lord.—
-- 83 --
This &dagger2; letter, madam, craves a speedy answer;
'Tis from your sister.
&clquo;Gon.
&clquo;One way I like this well;&crquo;
&clquo;But being widow, and my Gloster with her,&crquo;
&clquo;May all the building in my note fancy pluck&crquo;
&clquo;Upon my hateful life: Another way,&crquo;
&clquo;The news is not so tart.&crquo;—I'll note read, and answer.
[Exit.
Alb.
Where was his son, when they did take his eyes?
Mes.
Come with my lady hither.
Alb.
He's not here note
Mes.
No, my good lord; I met him back again.
Alb.
Knows he the wickedness?
Mes.
Ay, my good lord; 'twas he inform'd against him;
And quit the house on purpose, that their punishment note
Might have the freer course.
Alb.
Gloster, I live
To thank thee for the love thou shew'dst the king,
And to revenge thine eyes. note—Come hither, friend;
Tell me what more thou know'st.
[Exeunt.
SCENE III.
note
French Camp, under Dover.
Enter Kent, and Gentleman.
Ken.
The king of France14Q1365 so suddenly gone back!
Know you the reason note?
Gen.
Something he left imperfect in the state,
Which since his coming forth is thought of; which
Imports to the kingdom so much fear and danger,
That his return note was most requir'd and necessary.
Ken.
Who hath he left behind him general?
Gen.
The mareschal of France, monsieur le Fer. note
Ken.
Well; say, sir, did your letters pierce the queen
To any demonstration of her grief?
-- 84 --
Gen.
Ay, sir; she took them, read them in my presence;
And now and then an ample tear trill'd down
Her delicate cheek: it seem'd, she was a queen
Over her note passion; who, most rebel-like,
Sought to be king o'er her.
Ken.
O, then it mov'd her.
Gen.
Not to a rage: patience and sorrow strove
Who should express her goodliest. You have seen
Sunshine and rain at once? Her smiles and tears
Were like a wetter May: note Those happy smiles,
That play'd on her ripe lip, seem'd not to know
What guests were in her eyes; which parted thence,
As pearls from diamonds dropt. In brief, sir, sorrow
Would be a rarity most belov'd, if all
Could so become it.
Ken.
Made she no verbal question?
Gen.
Yes; once, or twice, she heav'd the name of father
Pantingly forth, as if it press'd her heart:
Cry'd, Sisters! sisters! shame of ladies! sisters!
Ken.
Father&dotup; Sisters&dotup;
Gen.
What, i'the storm? i'the night?
Let it not note be believed note: There she shook
The holy water from her heavenly eyes,
And clamour moisten'd: then note away she started,
To deal with grief alone.
Ken.
It is the stars,
The stars above us, govern our conditions;
Else one self mate and mate note could not beget
Such different issues. You spoke not with her since?
Gen.
No.
Ken.
Was this before the king return'd?
Gen.
No, since.
-- 85 --
Ken.
Well, sir; The poor distressed Lear is i'the town;
Who sometime, in his better tune, remembers
What we are come about, and by no means
Will yield to see his daughter.
Gen.
Why, good sir?
Ken.
A sovereign shame so bows note him: his own unkindness,
That strip'd her from his benediction, turn'd her
To foreign casualties, gave her dear rights
To his dog-hearted daughters,—these things sting
His mind so venomously, that burning shame
Detains him from Cordelia.
Gen.
Alack, poor gentleman!
Ken.
Of Albany's and Cornwal's powers you heard not?
Gen.
'Tis so; they note are afoot.
Ken.
Well, sir, I'll bring you to our master Lear,
And leave you to attend him: some dear cause
Will in concealment wrap me up a while;
When I am known aright, you shall not grieve
Lending me this acquaintance. Pray you, along note with me.
SCENE IV.
The same. A Tent.
Enter Cordelia, attended; Physician,
Officers, Guards, &c.
Cor.
Alack, 'tis he; why, he was met even now
As mad as the vext sea: note singing aloud;
Crown'd with rank fumiterr, note note and furrow weeds,
With bur-docks note, note14Q1366 hemlock, nettles, cuckoo-flowers,
Darnel, and all the idle weeds that grow
In our sustaining corn.—A century send forth note;
Search every acre in the high-grown field,
And bring him to our eye.—
[to an Officer, who goes out.
What can man's wisdom do, note in the restoring
-- 86 --
Of his bereaved sense? He, that helps him note,
Take all my outward worth.
Phy.
There note is means, madam:
Our foster nurse of nature is repose,
The which he lacks; that to provoke in him,
Are many simples operative, whose power
Will close the eye of anguish.
Cor.
All blest secrets,
All you unpublish'd virtues of the earth,
Spring with my tears! be aidant, and remediate,
In the good man's distress! note—Seek, seek for him;
Lest his ungovern'd rage dissolve the life
That wants the means to lead it.
Enter a Messenger.
Mes.
News, madam;
The British powers are marching hitherward.
Cor.
'Tis known before; our preparation stands
In expectation of them.—O dear father,
It is thy business that I go about;
Therefore great France
My mourning, and importunate note note tears, hath pity'd:
No blown ambition doth our arms incite note,
But love, dear love, and our ag'd father's right: note
Soon may I hear, and see him!
[Exeunt.
SCENE V.
A Room in Gloster's Castle.
Enter Regan, and Steward.
Reg.
But are my brother's powers set forth?
Ste.
Ay, madam.
Reg.
Himself
In person there? note
Ste.
Madam, with much ado:
-- 87 --
Your sister is note the better soldier.
Reg.
Lord Edmund14Q1367 spake not with your lord at note home?
Ste.
No, madam.
Reg.
What might import my sister's letter note to him?
Ste.
I know not, lady.
Reg.
'Faith, he is posted hence on serious note matter.
It was great ignorance, Gloster's eyes being out,
To let him live; where he arrives, he moves
All hearts against us: Edmund, I note think, is gone,
In pity of his misery, to dispatch
His nighted life; moreover to descry
The strength o' the enemy. note
Ste.
I must needs after him, madam, with my letter. note
Reg.
Our troops set note forth to-morrow; stay with us;
The ways are dangerous.
Ste.
I may not, madam;
My lady charg'd my duty in this business.
Reg.
Why should she write to Edmund? Might not you
Transport her purposes by word? Belike,
Something; note I know not what:—I'll love thee much,
Let me unseal the letter.
Ste.
Madam, I had rather—
Reg.
I know, your lady does not love her husband;
I am sure of that: and, at her late being here,
She gave strange oeillades note, note and most speaking looks,
To noble Edmund: I know, you are of her bosom.
Ste.
I, madam?
Reg.
I speak in understanding; you are, I note know it:
Therefore, I do advise you, take this note:
My lord is dead; Edmund and I have talk'd;
And more convenient is he for my hand,
Than for your lady's:—You may gather more.
-- 88 --
If you do find him, pray you, give him &dagger2; this;
And when your mistress hears thus much from you,
I pray, desire her call her wisdom to her.
So, fare you note well.
If you do chance to hear of that blind traitor,
Perferment falls on him that cuts him off.
Ste.
'Would I could meet him note, madam! I would shew note
What party I note do follow.
Reg.
Fare thee well.
[Exeunt severally.
SCENE VI.
Fields near Dover.
Enter Edgar, habited like a Peasant, and Gloster.
Glo.
When shall I come note to the top of that same hill?
Edg.
You do climb up it note now: look, how we labour.
Glo.
Methinks, the ground is even.
Edg.
Horrible steep:
Hark, hark; do you not hear the sea?
Glo.
No, truly.
Edg.
Why, then your other senses grow imperfect
By your eyes' anguish.
Glo.
So may it be, indeed:
Methinks, thy voice is alter'd; and thou speak'st
With better note phrase, and matter, than thou did'st.
Edg.
You're much deceiv'd; in nothing am I chang'd
But in my garments.
Glo.
Methinks, you are better spoken.
Edg.
Come on, sir; here's the place:—stand still;—How fearful
And dizzy 'tis, to cast one's eyes so low?
The crows, and coughs, that wing the midway air,
Shew scarce so gross as beetles: Half way down
Hangs one that gathers sampire; dreadful trade!
-- 89 --
Methinks, he seems no bigger than his head:
The fishermen, that walk note upon the beach note,
Appear like mice; and yon' tall anchoring bark
Diminish'd to her cock; her cock, a buoy note
Almost too small for sight: The murmuring surge,
That on the unnumber'd idle pebble chafes, note
Cannot be heard so high:—I'll note look no more;
Lest my brain turn, and the deficient sight
Topple down headlong.
Glo.
Set me where you stand.
Edg.
Give me your hand: You are now within a foot
Of the extream verge: for all beneath the moon
Would I not leap out-right note.
Glo.
Let go my hand.
Here, friend, 's another &dagger2; purse; in it, a jewel
Well worth a poor man's taking: Fairies, and gods,
Prosper it with thee! Go thou farther off,
Bid me farewel, and let me hear thee going.
Edg.
Now fare you well, note good sir.
Glo.
With all my heart.
&clquo;Edg.
&clquo;Why do I note triflle14Q1368 thus with his despair?&crquo;
&clquo;'Tis done note to cure it.&crquo;
Glo.
O you mighty gods,
This world I do renounce; and, in your sights,
Shake patiently my great affliction off:
If I could bear it longer, and not fall
To quarrel with your great opposeless wills,
My snuff note, and loathed part of nature, should
Burn itself out. If Edgar live, o, bless him! note—
Now, fellow, fare thee well.
[throws himself forward, and falls.
Edg.
Good sir, note farewel.
-- 90 --
&clquo;And yet I know not how conceit may rob&crquo;
&clquo;The treasury note of life, when life itself&crquo;
&clquo;Yields to the theft: Had he been where he thought,&crquo;
&clquo;By this, thought had note been past.&crquo; Alive, or dead?
Ho, you sir, you sir, friend! note Hear you note, sir? Speak:
&clquo;Thus might he pass indeed: Yet he revives:&crquo;
What are you, sir?
Glo.
Away, and let me dye.
Edg.
Had'st thou been ought but gossemeer, feathers, air, note
So many fathom down precipitating,
Thou had'st shiver'd like an egg: but thou dost breath;
Hast heavy substance; bleed'st not; speak'st; art sound. note
Ten masts attach'd14Q1369 make note not the altitude
Which thou hast perpendicularly fallen note;
Thy life's a miracle: Speak yet again.
Glo.
But have I fallen, note or no?
Edg.
From the dread summit of note this chalky bourn note:
Look up a-height; the shrill-gorg'd note lark so far
Cannot be seen, or heard: do but look up.
Glo.
Alack, I have no eyes.—
Is wretchedness depriv'd that benefit,
To end itself by death? 'Twas yet some comfort,
When misery could beguile the tyrant's rage,
And frustrate his proud will.
Edg.
Give me your arm:
Up:—So; How is't? note Feel you your legs? You stand.
Glo.
Too well, too well.
Edg.
This is above all strangeness.
Upon the crown o'the cliff, what thing was that
Which parted from you?
Glo.
A poor unfortunate note beggar.
Edg.
As I stood here below, methought note, his eyes
-- 91 --
Were two full moons; he had a thousand noses,
Horns welk'd, and wav'd like the enridged sea; note
It was some fiend: Therefore, thou happy father,
Think that the clearest gods, who make them honours note
Of men's impossibilities, have preserv'd thee.
Glo.
I do remember now: henceforth I'll bear
Affliction, 'till it do cry out itself,
Enough, enough, and, dye. That thing you speak of,
I took it for a man; often 'twould say note,
The fiend, the fiend: he led me to that place.
Edg.
Bear free note and patient thoughts.—But who comes here?
Enter Lear, fantastically drest up with Flowers.
The safer sense will ne'er note accommodate
His master thus.
Lea.
No, they cannot touch me for coining; note I am
the king himself.
&clquo;Edg.
&clquo;O thou side-piercing sight!&crquo;
Lea.
Nature's above art in that respect.—There's
your press-money. That fellow handles his bow like a
crow-keeper: draw me a clothier's yard.—Look, look,
a mouse! Peace, peace; this piece of note toasted cheese will
do't.—There's my gauntlet; I'll prove it on a giant.—
Bring up the brown bills.—O, well flown, bird!—I'the
clout, i'the clout; hewgh!—Give note the word.
Edg.
Sweet marjerom.
Lea.
Pass.
Glo.
I know that voice.
Lea.
Ha! Goneril with a white beard!14Q1370—They note flatter'd
me like a dog; and told me, I had white note hairs in
my beard, ere the black ones were there. To say, ay,
and no, to every thing I said! note Ay and no too was no
-- 92 --
good divinity. When the rain came to wet me once,
and the wind note to make me chatter; when the thunder
would not peace at my bidding; there I found them,
there I smelt them out. Go to, they are not men of their
words: they told me, I was every thing; 'tis a lye, I am
not ague-proof. note
Glo.
The trick of that voice I do well remember;
Is't not the king?
Lea.
Ay, every inch note a king:
When I do stare, see, how the subject quakes.
I pardon that man's life: What was the cause note?—
Adultery.—
Thou shalt not dye: Dye for adultery! note No:
The wren goes to't, and the small gilded fly
Does letcher note in my sight. Let copulation thrive:
For Gloster's bastard son was kinder to his father,
Than were my daughters got 'tween the lawful sheets.
To't, luxury, pell-mell, for I lack soldiers. note—
Behold yon' simp'ring dame,
Whose face between her forks presageth note snow;
That minces virtue, and does shake note the head
To note hear of pleasure's name;
The fitchow, note nor the soyled horse note, goes to't
With a more riotous appetite.
Down from the waste they are centaurs,
Though women all above:
But to the girdle do the gods inherit,
Beneath is all the fiends'; there's hell, there's darkness,
There is the sulphurous pit, note burning, scalding, stench,
consumption; note—Fie, fie, fie; pah, pah! Give me an ounce
of civet, good apothecary, to note sweeten my imagination:
there's money for thee.
-- 93 --
Glo.
O, let me kiss that hand!
Lea.
Let me wipe note it first; it smells of mortality.
Glo.
O ruin'd piece of nature! This great world
Shall so wear out to nought.—Dost thou know note me?
Lea.
I remember thine eyes note well enough. Dost thou
squiny at me? note No, do thy worst, blind Cupid; I'll not
love.—Read thou this challenge; note mark but note the penning
of it note.
Glo.
Were all the letters note suns, I could not see one. note
&clquo;Edg.
&clquo;I would not take this from report; it is,&crquo;
&clquo;And my heart breaks at it.&crquo;
Lea.
Read.
Glo.
What, with this case note of eyes?
Lea.
O, ho, are you there with me? No eyes in your
head, nor no money note in your purse? Your eyes are in a
heavy case, your purse in a light: Yet you see how this
world goes?
Glo.
I see it feelingly.
Lea.
What, art mad? A man may see how this world note
goes with no eyes. Look with thine ears: note see how yon'
justice rails upon yon' simple thief. Hark, in thine ear: note
Change places; and note, handy-dandy, Which is the justice,
which is the thief? note—Thou hast seen a farmer's dog bark
at a beggar?
Glo.
Ay, sir.
Lea.
And the creature run from the cur? There thou
might'st behold the great image of authority: a dog's
obey'd in office. note—
Thou rascal beadle, hold thy bloody hand:
Why dost thou lash that whore? Strip thine own note back;
Thou hotly note lust'st note to use her in that kind
For which thou whip'st her. The usurer hangs the cozener.
-- 94 --
Through tatter'd cloaths note small vices note do appear;
Robes, and fur'd gowns, hide all. note Plate note sins note with gold,
And the strong lance of justice hurtless breaks:
Arm it in rags, a pigmy's straw does pierce it.
None does offend, none, I say, none; I'll able 'em:
Take that of me, my friend, who have the power
To seal the accuser's lips. Get thee glass eyes;
And, like a scurvy politician, seem
To see the things thou dost not.—Now, now, now, now:
Pull off note my boots; harder, harder; so.
&clquo;Edg.
&clquo;O, matter and impertinency mixt;&crquo;
&clquo;Reason in madness!&crquo;
Lea.
If thou wilt weep my fortunes, note take my eyes,
I know thee well enough; thy name is Gloster:
Thou must be patient; we came crying hither.
Thou know'st, the first time that we smell the air,
We wail, note and cry:—I will preach to thee; mark me note.
Glo.
Alack, alack the day!
Lea.
When we are born, we cry, that we are come
To this great stage of fools;—This a good block?14Q1371—
It were a delicate stratagem, to shoe note
A troop of horse with felt: I'll put it in proof; note
And when I have stoln upon these son note-in laws note,
Then, kill, kill, kill, kill, kill, kill.
Enter Gentleman, and Attendants of Cordelia; and Guard.
Gen.
O, here he is; lay hand upon him.—Sir, note
Your most dear daughter note—
Lea.
No rescue? What, a prisoner? I am even
The natural fool of fortune.—Use me well;
You shall have ransom note. Let me have a surgeon, note
I am cut to the brains.
-- 95 --
Gen.
You shall have any thing.
Lea.
No seconds? All myself?
Why, this would make a man a man of salt note;
To use his eyes for garden water-pots,
And laying autumn's dust.—I note will note dye bravely,
Like a smug note bride-groom: What; I will be jovial:
Come, come;
I am a king, my note masters; Know you that?
Gen.
You are a royal one, and we obey you.
Lea.
Then there's life in't.—Nay, an you note get it, you note
shall get it with running. note Sa, sa, sa, sa. note
[Exit, running; Attendants and Guard follow.
Gen.
A sight most pitiful in the meanest wretch;
Past speaking of in a king!—Thou hast one daughter note,
Who redeems nature from the general curse
Which twain have brought note her to.
Edg.
Hail, gentle sir. note
Gen.
Sir, speed you: What's your will?
Edg.
Do you hear ought, sir, of a battle toward?
Gen.
Most sure, and vulgar: every one hears note that note,
Which can distinguish sound. note
Edg.
But, by your favour,
How near's the other army?
Gen.
Near, and on speedy foot; note the main descry note
Stands note on the hourly thought. note
Edg.
I thank you, sir: that's all.
Gen.
Though that the queen on special cause is here,
Her army note is mov'd on.
Edg.
I thank you, sir.
[Exit Gentleman.
Glo.
You ever-gentle gods, take my breath from me:
Let not my worser spirit tempt me again
To dye before you please!
-- 96 --
Edg.
Well pray you, father.
Glo.
Now, good sir, what are you?
Edg.
A most poor man, made tame to fortune's note blows;14Q1372
Who, by the art of known and feeling sorrows,
Am pregnant to good pity. Give me your hand,
I'll lead you to some biding.
Glo.
Hearty thanks:
The bounty and the benizon of heaven note
To boot, and boot! note
Enter Steward.
Ste.
A proclaim'd prize! Most happy!
That eyeless head of thine was first note fram'd flesh
To raise my fortunes.—Thou old unhappy note traitor,
Briefly thyself remember: the sword is out,
That must destroy thee.
Glo.
Now let thy friendly hand
Put strength enough to it.
Ste.
Wherefore, bold peasant,
Dar'st thou note support a publish'd traitor? Hence;
Lest the infection note of his fortune take
Like hold on thee. Let go his arm.
Edg.
Ch'ill not
Let go, zir note, without vurther note 'casion.
Ste.
Let go, slave, or thou dy'st.
Edg.
Good gentleman, go your gate, note and note let poor
volk pass: an ch'ud have been zwagger'd note out of my
life, 'twould not have been zo long as 'tis note by a vortnight:
Nay, come not near the old man; keep out,
che 'vore ye, or iz try note whether your costard or my bat note
be note the harder: Ch'ill be plain with you.
Ste.
Out, dunghill!
Edg.
Ch'ill pick your teeth, zir: come,
-- 97 --
No matter vor your foins note
[They fight; and Edg. knocks him down.
Ste.
Slave, thou hast slain me: Villain, take my purse:
If ever thou wilt thrive, bury my body;
And give the letters, which thou find'st about me,
To Edmund earl of Gloster; seek him out
Upon the British party: note—
O, untimely death, death,—
[dies.
Edg.
I know thee well: A serviceable villain;
As duteous to the vices of thy mistress,
As badness would desire.
Glo.
What, is he dead?
Edg.
Sit you down, father; rest you.—
[seating him at a Distance.
Let's see these pockets: note the letters, that he speaks of,
May be my friends.—He's dead; I am only sorry note
He had no other death's-man.—Let us see:
Leave, gentle wax; and, manners, blame us not:
To know our enemies' minds, we'd rip note their hearts;
Their papers, is more note lawful.
[reads.]
Let our reciprocal note vows be remember'd. You
have many opportunities to cut him off: if your will want
not, time and place will be fruitfully offered. There is
nothing done, if he return the conqueror; then am I
the prisoner, and his bed my jayl: from the loath'd
warmth whereof deliver me, and supply the place for
your labour.
Your Wife, (so I would say;) and your
affectionate Servant note note,
Goneril.
O undistinguish'd note14Q1373 space of woman's will!—
A plot upon her virtuous husband's life;
And the exchange, my brother!—Here, in the sands,
-- 98 --
Thee I'll rake up, the post unsanctify'd
Of murtherous letchers: and, in the mature time,
With this † ungracious paper strike the sight
Of the death-practis'd duke: For him 'tis well,
That of thy death note and business I can tell.
[Exit Edgar, dragging out the Body.
Glo.
The king is mad: How stiff is my vile sense,
That I stand up, and have ingenious feeling
Of my huge sorrows! Better I were distract:
So should my thoughts be sever'd from note my griefs;
And woes, by wrong imaginations, lose
The knowledge of themselves.
Re-enter Edgar.
Edg.
Give me your hand:
Far off, methinks, I hear the beaten drum.
Come, father, I'll bestow you with a friend.
[Exit, leading out Gloster.
SCENE VII.
The French Camp. A Tent.
Lear, upon a Bed, asleep; Physician, Gentleman,
and Others, attending: Enter Kent,
and Cordelia.
Cor.
O thou good Kent!
How shall I live, and work, to match thy goodness?
My life will be too short, and every measure fail me.
Ken.
To be acknowledg'd, madam, is o'er-pay'd.
All my reports go with the modest truth;
Nor more, nor clipt, but so.
Cor.
Be better suited:
These weeds are memories of those worser hours;
I pr'ythee, put them off.
Ken.
Pardon, dear note madam;
-- 99 --
Yet to be known, shortens my made intent:
My boon I make it, that you know me not,
'Till time and I think meet.
Cor.
Then be it so, my lord note.—
How does the king?
[going towards the Bed.
Gen.
Madam, note sleeps still.14Q1374
Cor.
Kind note gods,
Cure this great breach in his abused nature!
The untun'd and jarring senses note, o, wind up
Of this child-changed father!
Phy.
So note please your majesty,
That note we may wake the king? he hath slept long.
Cor.
Be govern'd by your knowledge, and proceed
I'the sway of your own will. Is he array'd?
Gen.
Ay, note madam; in the heaviness of sleep note,
We put fresh garments on him.
Phy.
Be by, good madam note, when we do awake him; note
I doubt not of note his temperance.
Cor.
Very well. note
Phy.
Please you, draw near.—Louder, the musick there.
Cor.
O my dear father!—Restauration note, hang
Thy medicine on my lips; and let this † kiss
Repair those violent harms, that my two sisters
Have in thy reverence made!
Ken.
Kind and dear princess!
Cor.
Had you not been their father, these white flakes
Did challenge note pity of them. Was this a face
To be oppos'd note against the warring note winds?
To stand note against the deep dread-bolted thunder;
In the most terrible and nimble stroke
Of quick cross light'ning? to watch (poor perdu! note)
With this thin helm? Mine injurer's note dog note,
-- 100 --
Though he had bit me, should have stood that night
Against my fire; And wast thou fain, poor father,
To hovel thee with swine, and rogues forlorn,
In short and musty straw? Alack, alack!
'Tis wonder, that thy life and wits at once
Had not concluded all.—He wakes; speak to him.
Phy.
Madam, note do you, 'tis fittest.
Cor.
How does my royal lord? How fares your majesty?
Lea.
You do me wrong, to take me out o'the grave:—
Thou art a soul in bliss; but I am bound
Upon a wheel of fire, that mine own tears
Do scald like molten lead.
Cor.
Sir, do you know me? note
Lea.
You are a spirit, I know: When did note you dye?
Cor.
Still, still, far wide!
Phy.
He's note scarce awake; let him alone a while.
Lea.
Where have I been? Where am I?—Fair daylight?—
I am mightily abus'd.—I should even dye with pity,
To see another thus.—I know not what to say.
I will not swear, these are my hands: Let's see;
I feel this pin prick. 'Would I were assur'd
Of my condition.
Cor.
O, look upon me, sir,
And hold your hands note in benediction o'er me:—
No, sir, note you must not kneel.
Lea.
Pray, do not mock me: note
I am a very foolish fond old man,
Fourscore and upward;
Not an hour more, nor less: note and, to deal plainly,
I fear, I am not in my perfect note mind.
Methinks, I should know you, and know this man;
-- 101 --
Yet I am doubtful: for I am mainly ignorant
What place this is; and all the skill I have
Remembers not these garments; nor I know not
Where I did lodge last night: Do not laugh note at me,
For, as I am a man, I think this lady
To be my child Cordelia.
Cor.
And so I am, I am note.
Lea.
Be your tears wet? Yes, 'faith. I pray, weep not:
If you have poison for me, I will drink it.
I know, you do not love me; for your sisters
Have, as I do remember, done me wrong: note
You have some cause, they have not. note
Cor.
No cause, no cause.
Lea.
Am I in France?
Ken.
In your own kingdom, sir.
Lea.
Do not abuse me.
Phy.
Be comforted, good madam: the great rage,
You see, is cur'd in him; note and yet it is danger note
To make him even o'er14Q1375 the time he has lost:
Desire him to go in; trouble him no more,
'Till further setling.
Cor.
Wilt note please your highness walk?
Lea.
You must bear with me:
Pray you note now, forget and forgive; I am old, and foolish.
[Exeunt Cor. Lea. Phy. and Attendants.
Gen.
Holds it note true, sir,
The note duke of Cornwal was so slain?
Ken.
Most certain, sir.
Gen.
Who is conductor of his people?
Ken.
'Tis note said,
The bastard son of Gloster.
Gen.
They say, Edgar,
-- 102 --
His banish'd son, is with the earl of Kent
In Germany.
Ken.
Report is changeable.
'Tis time to look about; the powers o'the kingdom
Approach apace.
Gen.
And the arbitrement
Is like to be most bloody. Fare you well, sir.
[Exit.
Ken.
My point and period will be throughly wrought,
Or well, or ill, as this day's battle's fought.
[Exit.
ACT V.
SCENE I.
Camp of the British Forces, near Dover.
Enter, with Drum and Colours, Edmund, Regan;
Officers, and Others, attending.
Edm.
Know of the duke, if his last purpose hold;
Or whether since he is advis'd by ought
To change the course: He's full of alteration note,
And self-reproving:—bring his constant pleasure.
[to an Officer; who bows, and goes out.
Reg.
Our sister's man is certainly miscarry'd.
Edm.
'Tis to be doubted, madam.
Reg.
Now, sweet lord,
You know the goodness I intend upon you:
Tell me, but truly, note but then speak the truth,
Do you not love my sister?
Edm.
In honour'd note love.
Reg.
But have you never found my brother's way
To the fore-fended place?
Edm.
That thought abuses you. note
Reg.
I never shall endure her: Dear my lord,
-- 103 --
Be not familiar with her.
Edm.
Fear me note not:—
She, and the duke her husband,—
Enter, with Drum and Colours, attended,
Albany, and Goneril.
&clquo;Gon.
&clquo;I had rather lose the battle, than that sister&crquo; note
&clquo;Should loosen him and me.&crquo;
Alb.
Our very loving sister, well be met.—
Sir, this note I hear, note The king is come to his daughter,
With others, whom the rigour of our state
Forc'd to cry out. note Where I could not be honest,
I never yet was valiant: for this business,14Q1376
It toucheth note us as France invades our land,
Not holds for the note king; with others, whom, I fear,
Most just and heavy causes make oppose.
Edm.
Sir, you speak nobly.
Reg.
Why is this reason'd?
Gon.
Combine together 'gainst the enemy:
For these domestick and particular note broils
Are not to question note here.
Alb.
Let's then determine
With the ancient of war on our proceeding. note
Edm.
I shall attend you presently at your tent. note
Reg.
Sister, you'll go with us?
Gon.
No.
Reg.
'Tis most convenient; pray you note, go with us.
&clquo;Gon.
&clquo;O, ho, I know the riddle:&crquo; I will go.
[As they are going out, and Albany last,
Enter Edgar.
Edg.
If e'er your grace had speech with man so note poor,
Hear me one word.
Alb.
I'll overtake you.—Speak.
-- 104 --
[Exeunt Edm. Reg. Gon. Off. and Att.
Edg.
Before you fight the battle, ope this &dagger2; letter.
If you have victory, let the trumpet sound
For him that brought it: wretched though note I seem,
I can produce a champion, that will prove
What is avouched there: If you miscarry,
Your business of the world hath so an end,
And machination ceases. note Fortune love you!
Alb.
Stay, 'till I have read the letter.
Edg.
I was forbid it.
When time shall serve, let but the herald cry,
And I'll appear again.
[Exit Edgar.
Alb.
Why, fare thee well; I will o'er-look note thy paper. note
Re-enter Edmund.
Edm.
The enemy's in view, draw up your powers.
Here &dagger2; is note the guess14Q1377 of their true strength note and forces
By diligent discovery;—but your haste
Is now urg'd on you.
Alb.
We will greet the time.
[Exit Albany.
Edm.
To both these sisters note have I sworn my love;
Each jealous of the other, as the stung note
Are of the adder. Which of them shall I take?
Both? one? or neither? Neither can be enjoy'd,
If both remain alive: To take the widow,
Exasperates, makes mad her sister Goneril;
And hardly shall I carry out my side,
Her husband being alive. Now then, we'll use
His countenance for the battle; which being done,
Let her, who would note be rid of him, devise
His speedy taking off. As for the mercy note
Which he intends note to Lear, and to Cordelia,—
The battle done, and they within our power,
-- 105 --
Shall never see his pardon: for my state
Stands on me to defend, not to debate.
[Exit.
SCENE II.
Field between the Camps.
Alarum within. Enter, with Drum and Colours,
Lear, Cordelia, and their Forces; and Exeunt.
Enter Edgar, and Gloster.
Edg.
Here, father, take the shadow of this tree note
For your good host; pray that the right may thrive:
If ever I return to you again,
I'll bring you comfort.
Glo.
Grace go with you, sir!
[Exit Edgar.
Loud Alarums; afterwards, a Retreat.
Re-enter Edgar.
Edg.
Away, old man, give me thy hand, away;
King Lear hath lost, he and his daughter ta'en;
Give me thy hand, come on.
Glo.
No farther, sir; a man may rot even here.
Edg.
What, in ill thoughts again? Men must endure
Their going hence, even as their coming hither:
Ripeness is all: Come on.
Glo.
And that's true too. note
[Exeunt.
SCENE III.
The British Camp under Dover.
Flourish. Enter, as from Conquest, Edmund;
Lear, and Cordelia, Prisoners;
Officers, Soldiers, &c.
Edm.
Some officers take them away: good guard;
Until their greater pleasures first be note known,
That are to censure them.
Cor.
We are not the first,
Who, with best meaning, have incurr'd the worst.
-- 106 --
For thee, oppressed king, am I note cast down;
Myself could else out-frown false fortune's frown.—
Shall we not see these daughters, and these sisters?
Lea.
No, no, no, no;14Q1378 come note, let's away to prison:
We two alone will sing like birds i' the cage:
When thou dost ask me blessing, I'll kneel down,
And ask of thee forgiveness: So we'll live,
And pray, and sing, note and tell old tales, and laugh
At gilded butterflies, and hear poor rogues
Talk of court news; and we'll talk with note them too,—
Who loses, and who wins; who's in, who's out; note—
And take upon us the mystery of things,
As if we were God's spies: And we'll wear out,
In a wall'd prison, packs and sects of great ones,
That ebb and flow by the moon.
Edm.
Take them away.
Lea.
Upon such sacrifices, my Cordelia,
The gods themselves throw incense. Have I caught thee?
He, that parts us, shall bring a brand from heaven,
And fire us hence, like foxes. Wipe thine eyes note;
The goujeres shall note devour them, flesh and note fell,
Ere they shall make us weep: we'll see them starve note first.
Come. note
[Exeunt Lear and Cordelia, guarded.
Edm.
Come hither, captain; hark.
Take thou this &dagger2; note; go, follow them to prison:
One step note I have advanc'd thee; if thou dost
As this instructs thee, thou dost make thy way
To noble fortunes: Know thou this,—that men
Are as the time is: to be tender-minded
Does not become a sword:—Thy great employment14Q1379
Will not bear question; either say, thou'lt do't,
Or thrive by other means.
-- 107 --
Off.
I'll do't, my lord.
Edm.
About it; and write happy, when thou hast done.
Mark,—I say, instantly; and carry it so
As I have set it down. note
[Exit Officer.
Flourish. Enter Albany, Regan, Goneril, Officers, and Attendants.
Alb.
Sir, you have shewn note to-day your valiant strain,
And fortune led you well: You have the captives
Who were note the opposites of this day's strife:
We do note require them of you; so to use them,
As we shall find their merits and our safety
May equally determine.
Edm.
Sir, I thought fit note
To send the note old and miserable king
To some retention, and appointed guard; note
Whose age has charms note in it, whose title more,
To pluck the common bosom note on his note side,
And turn our ímprest lances in our eyes
Which do command them. With him I sent the queen;
My reason all the same; and they are ready,
To-morrow, or at further note space, to appear
Where you shall hold your session. note14Q1380 At this time,
We sweat note, and bleed: the friend hath lost his friend;
And the best quarrels, in the heat, are curs'd
By those that feel their sharpness: note—
The question of Cordelia, and her father,
Requires a fitter place.
Alb.
Sir, by your patience,
I hold you but a subject of this war,
Not as a brother.
Reg.
That's as we list to grace him.
Methinks, our pleasure might have note been demanded,
-- 108 --
Ere you had spoke so far. He led our powers;
Bore the commission of my place and person;
The which immediacy note may well stand up,
And call itself your brother.
Gon.
Not so hot:
In his own grace he doth exalt himself,
More than in your advancement. note
Reg.
In my rights note,
By me invested, he compeers the best.
Gon.
That were note14Q1381 the most, if he should husband you.
Reg.
Jesters do oft prove prophets.
Gon.
Hola, hola!
That eye, that told you so, look'd but a-squint.
Reg.
Lady, I am not well; else I should answer
From a full-flowing stomach.—General,
Take thou my soldiers, prisoners, patrimony;
Dispose of them, of me; the walls are thine: note
Witness the world, that I create thee here
My lord and master.
Gon.
Mean you to enjoy him? note
Alb.
The let-alone lies not in your good will.
Edm.
Nor in thine, lord.
Alb.
Half-blooded fellow, yes.
Reg.
Let the drum strike, and prove my title thine. note
Alb.
Stay yet; hear reason:—Edmund, I arrest thee
On capital treason; and, in thy arrest, note
This gilded serpent:—for your claim, fair sister, note
I bar it note in the interest of my wife;
'Tis she is sub-contracted to this lord, note
And I, her husband, contradict your banes. note
If you will marry, make your loves to note me,
My lady is bespoke.
-- 109 --
Gon.
An interlude! note
Alb.
Thou art arm'd, Gloster:—Let the trumpet sound: note—
If none appear to prove upon thy person note
Thy heinous, manifest, and many treasons,
There &dagger2; is my pledge; I'll prove it note on thy heart,
Ere I taste bread, thou art in nothing less
Than I have here proclaim'd thee.
Reg.
Sick, o, sick!
&clquo;Gon.
&clquo;If not, I'll ne'er trust poison. note&crquo;
Edm.
There's &dagger2; my exchange: what in the world he is note
That names me traitor, villain-like he lies:
Call by thy trumpet; note he that dares approach,
On him, on you, (who not?) I will maintain
My truth and honour firmly.
Alb.
A herald, ho.
Edm.
A herald, ho, a herald. note
Alb.
Trust to thy single virtue; for thy soldiers,
All levy'd in my name, have in my name
Took their discharge.
Reg.
My sickness note grows upon me.
Enter a Herald.
Alb.
She is not well, convey her to my tent.—
[Exit Regan, led.
Come hither, herald,—Let the trumpet sound,—
And read out &dagger2; this.
Off.
Sound, trumpet. note
[a Trumpet sounds.
Herald reads.
If any man of quality or degree, within the lists of note
the army, will maintain upon Edmund, suppos'd earl
of Glo'ster, that he is a manifold traitor, let him appear
by the note third sound of the trumpet: he is bold in his
defence.
-- 110 --
Edm.
Sound. note
1. Trumpet.
Her.
Again.
2. Trumpet.
Her.
Again.
3. Trumpet.
[Trumpet answers within.
Enter Edgar, arm'd.
Alb.
Ask him his purposes, why he appears
Upon this call o'the trumpet.
Her.
What are you?
Your name, your quality note? and why you answer
This present summons?
Edg.
Know note, my name is lost;
By treason's tooth bare-gnawn, and canker-bit: note
Yet am I noble, as the adversary
I come to cope withal. note
Alb.
Which is note that adversary?
Edg.
What's he, that speaks for Edmund earl of Gloster?
Edm.
Himself; What say'st thou to him?
Edg.
Draw thy sword;
That, if my speech offend a noble heart,
Thy arm may do thee justice: here † is mine.14Q1382
Behold, it is the priviledge note of my tongue,
My oath, and my profession note: I protest,—
Maugre thy strength, youth, place note and eminence,
Despight thy note victor sword, and fire-new fortune note,
Thy valour, and thy heart,—thou art a traitor:
False to the gods, note thy brother, and thy father;
Conspirate note note 'gainst this high illustrious prince;
And, from the extreamest upward of thy head
To the descent and dust below thy foot, note
A most toad-spotted traitor. Say thou, No,
This sword, this arm, and my best spirits, are bent note
To prove upon thy heart, whereto I speak,
-- 111 --
Thou ly'st.
Edm.
In wisdom, I should ask thy name;
But, since thy out-side looks so fair and warlike,
And that thy tongue some note 'say of breeding breaths,
What safe and nicely I might well delay note
By rule of note knighthood, I disdain and spurn:
Back do I toss these note treasons to thy head;
With the hell-hated lye o'er-whelm thy note heart;
Which for they yet glance by, and scarcely bruise,
This sword of mine shall give them instant way
Where they shall rest for ever.—Trumpets, speak.
[Alarums. They fight. Edmund falls.
Alb.
Save him, sir, save him.14Q1383
Gon.
This is practice note, Gloster:
By the law of arms, note thou wast not bound to answer
An unknown opposite; thou art not vanquish'd,
But cozen'd and beguil'd.
Alb.
Shut your note mouth, dame,
Or with this &dagger2; paper shall I stop it note:—Hold, sir: note—
Thou worse than any name, read note thine own evil:
No note tearing, lady; I perceive, you know it.
Gon.
Say, if I do; the laws are mine, not thine:
Who shall arraign note me for't?
Alb.
Most monsterous! note
Know'st note thou this paper?
Gon.
Ask me note not what I know.
[Exit Goneril.
Alb.
Go after her; she's desperate; govern her.
[to an Officer, who goes out after her.
Edm.
What you have charg'd me with, that have I done;
And more, much more: the time will bring it out;
'Tis past, and so am I: But what art thou,
That hast this fortune on me? If thou art noble note,
-- 112 --
I do forgive thee.
Edg.
Let us exchange charity.
I am no less in blood than thou art, Edmund;
If more, the more thou hast wrong'd me.
My name is Edgar, and thy father's son.
The gods are just, and of our pleasant vices note
Make instruments to scourge us: note
The dark and vicious place where thee he note got
Cost him his eyes.
Edm.
Thou hast spoken right, 'tis true; note
The wheel is come full circle, note I am † here.
Alb.
Methought, thy very gait did prophesy
A royal nobleness: I must embrace thee:
Let sorrow split my heart, if ever I note
Did hate thee or thy father!
Edg.
Worthy prince,
I know it well.
Alb.
Where have you hid yourself?
How have you known the miseries of your father?
Edg.
By nursing them, my lord. List a brief tale;—
And, when 'tis told, o that my heart would burst!—
The bloody proclamation to escape,
That follow'd me so near, (O our lives' sweetness!
That we the note pain of death would hourly dye,
Rather than dye at once!) taught me to shift
Into a madman's rags; to assume a semblance
That very dogs disdain'd: and in this habit
Met I my father with his bleeding rings,
Their precious note stones new lost; became his guide,
Led him, beg'd for him, sav'd him from despair;
Never (o fault!) note reveal'd myself unto him,
Until some half hour past, when I was arm'd,
-- 113 --
Not sure, though hoping, of this good success,
I ask'd his blessing, and from first to last
Told him my pilgrimage note: But his flaw'd heart,
(Alack, too weak the conflict to support!)
'Twixt two extreams of passion, joy and grief,
Burst smilingly.
Edm.
This speech of yours hath mov'd me,
And shall, perchance, do good: but speak you on,
You look as you had something more to say.
Alb.
If there be more note, more woeful, hold it in;
For I am almost ready to dissolve,
Hearing of this. note
Edg.
This would14Q1384 have seem'd a period note
To such as love not sorrow; but, another;
(To amplify too-much note, to make much more,
And top extremity,)
Whilst I was big in clamour, came there a man,
Who having seen me in my worst estate,
Shun'd my abhor'd society; but then, finding
Who 'twas that so endur'd, with his strong arms
He fasten'd on my neck, and bellow'd out
As he'd burst heaven; threw him on note my father;
Told the most note piteous tale of Lear and him,
That ever ear receiv'd: which in recounting,
His grief grew puisant, and the strings of life
Began to crack: Twice then the trumpet sounded,
And there I left him tranc'd.
Alb.
But who was this?
Edg.
Kent, sir, the banish'd Kent; who in disguise
Follow'd his enemy king, and did him service
Improper for a slave.
Re-enter Officer hastily,14Q1385 with a bloody Knife. note
-- 114 --
Off.
Help, help, o, help!
Edg.
What kind of help?
Alb.
Speak, man.
Edg.
What means that bloody note knife?
Off.
It's hot, it smokes,
It came even from the heart of— note
Alb.
Who, man? speak.
Off.
Your lady, sir, your lady: and her sister
By her is poison'd; she confesses it. note
Edm.
I was contracted to them both; all three
Now marry in an instant.
Edg.
Here comes Kent, sir. note
Enter Kent.
Alb.
Produce the bodies, be they alive or dead.—
This judgment of note the heavens, that makes us tremble,
Touches us note not with pity.—O, 'tis note he:
The time will not allow the compliment
That very note manners urges.
Ken.
I am come
To bid my king and master aye good-night;
Is he not here?
Alb.
Great thing note of us forgot!—
Speak, Edmund, where's the king, and where's Cordelia?—
See'st thou this object, Kent?
[the Bodies of Reg. and Gon. are brought in.
Ken.
Alack, why thus?
Edm.
Yet Edmund was belov'd:
The one the other poison'd for my sake,
And after slew herself
Alb.
Even so.—Cover their faces.
Edm.
I pant for life,—Some good I mean to do,
Despight of mine own note nature. Quickly send,
-- 115 --
Be brief in it, to the note castle; for my writ
Is on note the life of Lear, and on Cordelia:
Nay, send in time.
Alb.
Run, run, o, run,—
Edg.
To who, my note lord?—Who has the note office? send
Thy token of reprieve.
Edm.
Well thought on; take my sword,
Give it the captain. note
Alb.
Haste thee note for thy life.
[Exeunt Edgar, and Others.
Edm.
He hath commission from thy wife and me
To hang Cordelia in the prison, and
To lay the blame upon her own despair. note
Alb.
The gods defend her!—Bear him hence a while.
[Edmund is born off.
Enter Lear, with Cordelia in his Arms:
Edgar, and the rest, return.
Lea.
Howl, howl, howl, howl! O, you are note men of stones;
Had I your tongues and eyes, I'd use them so
That heaven's vault should crack:—O, note she is gone for ever!—
I know when one is dead, and when one lives;
She's dead as earth:—Lend me a looking-glass;
If that her breath will mist or stain note the stone,
Why note, then she note lives.
Ken.
Is this the promis'd end?
Edg.
O image note of that horror!
Alb.
Fall, and cease!
Lea.
This feather stirs; She lives! if it be so,
It is a chance that does note redeem all sorrows
That ever I have felt.
Ken.
O my good master!
[kneeling.
Lea.
Pr'ythee, away.
-- 116 --
Edg.
'Tis noble Kent, your friend.
Lea.
A plague upon you note, murderers, traitors all!
I might have sav'd her; now she's gone for ever!—
Cordelia, Cordelia, stay a little.
Ha! note What is't thou say'st?—Her voice was ever soft,
Gentle, and low; an excellent thing in woman: note—
I kill'd the slave that was a hanging thee.
Off.
'Tis true note, my lords, he did.
Lea.
Did I not, fellow?
I have seen the day, with my good biting note faulchion
I would have made them skip: note I am old now,
And these same crosses spoil me.—Who are you?
Mine eyes are none o'the note best: I'll tell you straight.
Ken.
If fortune brag of two she lov'd and hated, note
One of them we behold.
Lea.
This sight note of mine
Is a dull sight: Are you not note Kent?
Ken.
The same;
Your servant Kent: Where is your servant Caius?
Lea.
He's a good fellow, I can tell you that; note
He'll strike, and quickly too:—He's dead and rotten.
Ken.
No, my good lord; I am the very man:
Lea.
I'll see that straight.
Ken.
That, from your first of note difference and decay,
Have follow'd your sad steps.
Lea.
You are note welcome hither.
Ken.
Nor no man else; all's cheerless, dark, and deadly.—
Your eldest daughters have fore-doom'd note themselves,
And desperately note are dead.
Lea.
Ay, so I think. note
Alb.
He knows not what he says note; and vain it is
That we present us to him.
-- 117 --
Edg.
Very bootless.
Enter an Officer. note
Off.
Edmund is note dead, my lord.
Alb.
That's but a trifle here.—
You lords, and noble friends, know our intent.
What comfort to this great note decay may come,
Shall be apply'd: For us, we will resign,
During the life of this old majesty,
To him our absolute power:—You, to your rights;
With boot and such addition as your honours note
Have more than merited.—All friends shall taste
The wages of their virtue, and all foes
The cup of their deservings.—O, see, see!
Lea.
And my poor fool is hang'd! No, no, no life: note
Why should a dog, a horse, a rat have life note,
And thou no breath at all? O, thou wilt come note no more!
Never, never, never, never, never!—
Pray you, undo this button: Thank you, sir. note—
Do you see this? Look on her, look on her lips, note
Look there, look there!
[dies.
Edg.
He faints;—My lord, my lord;—
Ken.
Break note, heart; I pr'ythee, break.
Edg.
Look up, my note lord.
Ken.
Vex not his ghost: o, let him pass! he hates him note,
That would upon the rack of this rough note world
Stretch him out longer.
Edg.
He note is gone, indeed.
Ken.
The wonder is, he hath endur'd so long:
He but usurp'd his life.
Alb.
Bear them from hence.—
Our present business
Is general note woe. Friends of my soul, you twain
-- 118 --
Rule in this realm, and note the gor'd state note sustain.
Ken.
I have a journey, fir, shortly to go;
My master calls me, I note must not say, no. note
Alb.
The weight note of this sad time we must obey;
Speak what we feel, not what we ought to say.
The oldest have born note most: we, that are young,
Shall never see so much, nor live so long.
[Exeunt, with a dead March.
