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Preface

1. 'The Famous History of the Life of KING HENRY THE EIGHT' was printed for the first time in the Folio of 1623.

2. The earliest edition of 'TROILUS AND CRESSIDA' of which we have any knowledge was the Quarto which was printed in 1609 with the following title:

The | Historie of Troylus | and Cresseida. | As it was acted by the Kings Maiesties | seruants at the Globe. | Written by William Shakespeare. | LONDON | Imprinted by G. Eld for R. Bonian and H. Walley, and | are to be sold at the spred Eagle in Paules | Church-yeard, ouer against the | great North doore. | 1609. |

In the same year was issued another edition, printed from the same form as the preceding, but with the following title:

The | Famous Historie of | Troylus and Cresseid. | Excellently expressing the beginning | of their loues, with the conceited wooing | of Pandarus Prince of Licia. | Written by William Shakespeare. | LONDON | Imprinted by G. Eld for R. Bonian and H. Walley, and | are to be sold at the spred Eagle in Paules | Church-yeard, ouer against the | great North doore. | 1609. |

Besides the variations in the title-page this edition differs from the preceding in having a preface, apparently the work of the publisher, of which the heading is 'A neuer writer, to an euer reader. Newes.' In this preface the play is called a new one, 'neuer stal'd with the Stage, neuer clapper-clawd with the palmes of the vulger,' and hence it has been inferred that the edition with the preface is the earlier of the two. It appears, however, upon a close examination, that all the copies were printed from the same form, that the title which we have recorded first was the original one, and that in some copies this was cancelled, and the new title and preface inserted on a new half-sheet and with a new signature. The title-page of the edition with the preface is printed from the same form as the other title-page, as is evident from a comparison of the parts in each, from 'Written by William Shakespeare' to the end, which are absolutely identical. As the running title, 'The history of Troylus and Cresseida' corresponds with the first quoted title-page, we believe that the copies with this title-page were first issued for the theatre, and afterwards those with the new title-page and preface for general readers. In this case the expression 'neuer stal'd with the Stage, neuer clapper-clawd with the palmes of the vulger' must refer to the first appearance of the play in type, unless we suppose that the publisher was more careful to say what would recommend his book than to state what was literally true.

Since, in the play itself, these two editions are identical, we refer to them by one symbol, Q.

It appears from an entry in the Stationers' Registers, 7 Feb. 1602/3, that a play called 'Troilus and Cressida' had been acted by the Lord Chamberlain's Servants, and this Mr Staunton conjectures may have been the same as that upon which Decker and Chettle are known, from Henslowe's Diary, to have been engaged in 1599, and may possibly have formed the foundation of the later play.

In the Folio of 1623, TROILUS AND CRESSIDA stands between the Histories and the Tragedies. The Tragedies at first began with Coriolanus. Then followed Titus Andronicus and Romeo and Juliet, and it appears upon examination that the editors intended Troilus and Cressida to be next in order. With this view the first three pages were actually printed and paged so as to follow Romeo and Juliet, and the play was called 'The Tragedie of Troylus and Cressida.' Whether it was found that the title of tragedy could not with propriety be given to it, or whatever may have been the cause, the editors changed its position, cancelled the leaf containing the end of Romeo and Juliet on one side and the beginning of Troilus and Cressida on the other, but retained the other leaf already printed, and then added the prologue to fill up the blank page, which in the original setting of the type had been occupied by the end of Romeo and Juliet. The rest of the play was printed with a new set of signatures and without any pagination, and was simply called 'Troylus and Cressida.'

There are very remarkable discrepancies between the Quarto and the Folio text of this play, similar in character to those which are found on comparing the two texts of Richard III. In the present case, however, they are not nearly so frequent, nor, as a general rule, so important. Some of the most important have been mentioned specially in the notes at the end of the play, and all the others recorded in the foot-notes. We find in the Folio several passages essential to the sense of the context which do not exist in the Quarto, and which therefore must have been omitted by the negligence of a copyist or printer. On the other hand we find some passages in the Quarto, not absolutely essential to the sense, though a decided improvement to it and quite in the author's manner, which either do not appear in the Folio at all, or appear in a mutilated form. Sometimes the lines which are wrongly divided in the Quarto are divided properly in the Folio, and vice versa: in this point, however, the former is generally more correct than the latter. The two texts differ in many single words: sometimes the difference is clearly owing to a clerical or typographical error, but in other cases it appears to result from deliberate correction, first by the author himself, and secondly by some less skilful hand. The main duty of an editor must be to discriminate the one from the other, and in the first case to prefer the text of the Folio, and in the second to reject it in favour of the Quarto. On the whole we are of opinion that the Quarto was printed from a transcript of the author's original MS.; that this MS. was afterwards revised and slightly altered by the author himself, and that before the first Folio was printed from it, it had been tampered with by another hand. Perhaps the corrections are due to the writer who did not shrink from prefixing to Shakespeare's play a prologue of his own.

3. CORIOLANUS was first published in the Folio of 1623. The text abounds with errors, due, probably, to the carelessness or the illegibility of the transcript from which it was printed.

4. TITUS ANDRONICUS was, so far as we know[A], published for the first time in the year 1600, in Quarto, with the following title-page:

The most lamenta-|ble Romaine Tragedie of Titus | Andronicus. | As it hath sundry times beene playde by the | Right Honourable the Earle of Pembrooke, the | Earle of Darbie, the Earle of Sussex, and the | Lorde Chamberlaine theyr | Seruants. | AT LONDON, | Printed by I. R. for Edward White | and are to bee solde at his shoppe, at the little | North doore of Paules, at the signe of | the Gun. 1600. |

[A] In the Registers of the Stationers' Company are the following entries with regard to a book called 'Titus Andronicus,' but it is more than doubtful whether any of them refer to the editions of the play of that name which have come down to us. It will be seen that the entry under the date, 19 April, 1602, speaks of a transference of copyright from Thomas Millington to Thomas Pavier, but as both the extant editions of the play, printed respectively in 1600 and 1611, were published by Edward White, the entry can have reference to neither of these.

6 February, 1593.

John Danter. Entered for his copye under handes of bothe the wardens a booke intituled, A Noble Roman-Historye of Tytus Andronicus. vjᵈ.

1602. 19 April.

Tho. Pavier. Entred for his copies by assignmᵗ from Thomas Millington these bookes folowing; salvo jure cuiuscumque--

viz.

A booke called Thomas of Reading. vjᵈ.

The first and second pts of Henry the VIᵗ. ij bookes. xijᵈ.

A booke called Titus and Andronic'. vjᵈ.

Under the date 14ᵒ Dec. 1624, among a list of 'Ballades' is mentioned 'Titus and Andronmus.' Again, on 8ᵒ Novemb. 1630, is an entry assigning to Ric. Cotes from Mr Bird 'all his estate right title and interest in the Copies hereafter menconed,' and in the list which follows is 'Titus and Andronicus.' On 4 Aug. 1626, Thomas Pavier had assigned his right in Titus Andronicus to Edw. Brewster and Rob. Birde, so that apparently the same book is spoken of here as in the entry under the date 19 April, 1602. This being the case, it is difficult to account for the fact that a book, which in 1602 was the property of Thomas Millington, should in 1600 have been printed for Edward White, and that, after the transference of the copyright from Millington to Pavier, a second edition of the same book should have been printed in 1611 for the same Edward White. No edition with Millington's name on the title has yet been found.

Langbaine, in his Account of the English Dramatick Poets, p. 464 (ed. 1691), says of Titus Andronicus, 'This Play was first printed 4ᵒ. Lond. 1594. and acted by the Earls of Derby, Pembroke, and Essex, their Servants.' Whether or not this is the same as 'titus and ondronicus' mentioned in Henslowe's Diary (p. 33, ed. Collier) as acted for the first time on the 23 Jan. 1593, it is impossible to say.

Only two copies of this edition are known to exist, one in the library at Bridgewater House, and one in the library of the University of Edinburgh[B]. From a tracing of the title-page of the latter, kindly sent us by Mr D. Laing, we find that it agrees in every particular with the above, which we have copied from the Bridgewater Quarto, now before us.

[B] Not the Signet Library, as stated by Mr Collier.

For some time the Bridgewater copy was believed to be unique. Todd was the first to collate it, somewhat hastily as it would seem, with Steevens' edition of 1793, and the results were given in the notes to the first variorum edition (1803). Subsequent editors were content to accept Todd's authority till Mr Collier consulted the original for himself. Lady Ellesmere's kind liberality has enabled us to do the like. We have gone over it with great care, and succeeded in recovering a considerable number of readings which had escaped the notice of previous collators. Taking its rarity into account, we have recorded the variations of this edition with unusual minuteness. They are the better worth notice, as the book is printed with remarkable accuracy. We call it Q₁.

The second edition of Titus Andronicus was published in 1611. This we call Q₂. Its title-page is as follows:

The | most lamen-|table Tragedie | of Titus Andronicus. | As it hath sundry | times beene plaide by the Kings | Maiesties Seruants. | LONDON, | Printed for Eedward White, and are to be solde | at his shoppe, nere the little North dore of | Pauls, at the signe of the | Gun. 1611. |

This edition was printed from that of 1600, from which it varies only by some printer's errors and a few conjectural alterations.

The first Folio text was printed from a copy of the second Quarto which, perhaps, was in the library of the theatre, and had some MS. alterations and additions made to the stage directions. Here, as elsewhere, the printer of the Folio has been very careless as to metre. It is remarkable that the Folio contains a whole scene, Act III. Sc. 2, not found in the Quartos, but agreeing too closely in style with the main portion of the play to allow of the supposition that it is due to a different author. The scene may have been supplied to the players' copy of Q₂ from a manuscript in their possession.

Ravenscroft's version quoted in our notes is an alteration of the play, published in 1687 under the title of 'Titus Andronicus: or the Rape of Lavinia.'

We have to thank Dr Delius of Bonn, for sending us the second edition of his 'Shakespeare,' and for the interest he has taken in our work, Dr Leo of Berlin, for a present of his edition of 'Coriolanus,' Mr Rivington and Mr Greenhill, for procuring us access to the registers of the Stationers' Company, and Sir S. M. Peto, Sir J. Claridge, Professor Blackie, Mr D. Laing, the Rev. T. J. Rowsell, Dr Kingsley, Mr R. H. Martley, Mr L. Booth, and Mr H. Peto, for various acts of kindness.

W. G. C. W. A. W.

ERRATUM.

Coriolanus, I. 9. 45. note,

for Collier conj. read Singer conj.

KING HENRY THE EIGHTH.

DRAMATIS PERSONÆ[C].

KING HENRY the Eighth. CARDINAL WOLSEY. CARDINAL CAMPEIUS. CAPUCIUS, Ambassador from the Emperor Charles V. CRANMER, Archbishop of Canterbury. DUKE OF NORFOLK. DUKE OF BUCKINGHAM. DUKE OF SUFFOLK. EARL OF SURREY. Lord Chamberlain. Lord Chancellor. GARDINER, Bishop of Winchester. Bishop of Lincoln. LORD ABERGAVENNY. LORD SANDS. SIR HENRY GUILDFORD. SIR THOMAS LOVELL. SIR ANTHONY DENNY. SIR NICHOLAS VAUX. Secretaries to Wolsey. CROMWELL, Servant to Wolsey. GRIFFITH, Gentleman-usher to Queen Katharine. Three Gentlemen. DOCTOR BUTTS, Physician to the King. Garter King-at-Arms. Surveyor to the Duke of Buckingham. BRANDON, and a Sergeant-at-Arms. Door-keeper of the Council-chamber. Porter, and his Man. Page to Gardiner. A Crier.

QUEEN KATHARINE, wife to King Henry, afterwards divorced. ANNE BULLEN, her Maid of Honour, afterwards Queen. An old Lady, friend to Anne Bullen. PATIENCE, woman to Queen Katharine.

Several Lords and Ladies in the Dumb Shows; Women attending upon the Queen; Scribes, Officers, Guards, and other Attendants.

Spirits.

SCENE: London; Westminster; Kimbolton.

[C] DRAMATIS PERSONÆ. First given, imperfectly, by Rowe.

THE FAMOUS HISTORY OF THE LIFE OF

KING HENRY VIII.

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The Prologue

I come no more to make you laugh: things now, That bear a weighty and a serious brow, Sad, high and working, full of state and woe,[1] Such noble scenes as draw the eye to flow, We now present. Those that can pity, here[2] 5 May, if they think it well, let fall a tear; The subject will deserve it. Such as give Their money out of hope they may believe, May here find truth too. Those that come to see Only a show or two and so agree[3] 10 The play may pass, if they be still and willing, I'll undertake may see away their shilling Richly in two short hours. Only they That come to hear a merry bawdy play, A noise of targets, or to see a fellow 15 In a long motley coat guarded with yellow, Will be deceived; for, gentle hearers, know, To rank our chosen truth with such a show As fool and fight is, beside forfeiting[4] Our own brains and the opinion that we bring 20 To make that only true we now intend,[5] Will leave us never an understanding friend.[6] Therefore, for goodness' sake, and as you are known[7] The first and happiest hearers of the town, Be sad, as we would make ye: think ye see[8] 25 The very persons of our noble story[9] As they were living; think you see them great And follow'd with the general throng and sweat Of thousand friends; then, in a moment, see How soon this mightiness meets misery: 30 And if you can be merry then, I'll say A man may weep upon his wedding-day.

FOOTNOTES:

[1] high and working] and high-working Staunton.

full] F₁ F₄. fall F₂ F₃.

[2] now] shall Pope.

[3] agree] Pope, a gree, F₁. agree, F₂ F₃ F₄.

[4] beside] besides Pope (ed. 2).

[5] To make] That make Rowe. To make ... intend] Or make; that only truth we now intend Johnson conj. That only true to make we now intend Tyrwhitt conj.

[6] never] ne'er S. Walker conj.

[7] and as] as Pope.

[8] ye see] before ye Theobald. you see Delius.

[9] noble story] history Capell (Heath conj.)

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Act I, Scene I — London. An ante-chamber in the palace.

Enter the DUKE OF NORFOLK at one door: at the other, the DUKE OF BUCKINGHAM and the LORD ABERGAVENNY.[9a]

Buck. Good morrow, and well met. How have ye done Since last we saw in France?[10]

Nor. I thank your grace, Healthful, and ever since a fresh admirer Of what I saw there.

Buck. An untimely ague Stay'd me a prisoner in my chamber when 5 Those suns of glory, those two lights of men,[11] Met in the vale of Andren.[12]

Nor. 'Twixt Guynes and Arde: I was then present, saw them salute on horseback;[13] Beheld them, when they 'lighted, how they clung In their embracement, as they grew together; 10 Which had they, what four throned ones could have weigh'd[14] Such a compounded one?

Buck. All the whole time I was my chamber's prisoner.

Nor. Then you lost The view of earthly glory: men might say, Till this time pomp was single, but now married 15 To one above itself. Each following day Became the next day's master, till the last[15] Made former wonders its. To-day the French,[16] All clinquant, all in gold, like heathen gods,[17] Shone down the English; and to-morrow they 20 Made Britain India: every man that stood Show'd like a mine. Their dwarfish pages were As cherubins, all gilt: the madams too, Not used to toil, did almost sweat to bear The pride upon them, that their very labour 25 Was to them as a painting: now this masque Was cried incomparable; and the ensuing night Made it a fool and beggar. The two kings, Equal in lustre, were now best, now worst, As presence did present them; him in eye 30 Still him in praise; and being present both, 'Twas said they saw but one, and no discerner Durst wag his tongue in censure. When these suns--[18] For so they phrase 'em--by their heralds challenged The noble spirits to arms, they did perform 35 Beyond thought's compass; that former fabulous story,[19] Being now seen possible enough, got credit, That Bevis was believed.[20]

Buck. O, you go far.

Nor. As I belong to worship and affect In honour honesty, the tract of every thing 40 Would by a good discourser lose some life Which action's self was tongue to. All was royal;[21][22] To the disposing of it nought rebell'd;[22] Order gave each thing view; the office did[22][23] Distinctly his full function.[22]

Buck. Who did guide,[22] 45 I mean, who set the body and the limbs[22] Of this great sport together, as you guess?[22][24]

Nor. One, certes, that promises no element[22][24][25] In such a business.[22]

Buck. I pray you, who, my lord?[26]

Nor. All this was order'd by the good discretion 50 Of the right reverend Cardinal of York.

Buck. The devil speed him! no man's pie is freed From his ambitious finger. What had he To do in these fierce vanities? I wonder That such a keech can with his very bulk[27] 55 Take up the rays o' the beneficial sun, And keep it from the earth.

Nor. Surely, sir,[28] There's in him stuff that puts him to these ends; For, being not propp'd by ancestry, whose grace Chalks successors their way, nor call'd upon 60 For high feats done to the crown; neither allied To eminent assistants; but, spider-like, Out of his self-drawing web, he gives us note,[29] The force of his own merit makes his way; A gift that heaven gives for him, which buys[30] 65 A place next to the king.

Aber. I cannot tell What heaven hath given him; let some graver eye Pierce into that; but I can see his pride Peep through each part of him: whence has he that?[31] If not from hell, the devil is a niggard,[31] 70 Or has given all before, and he begins A new hell in himself.

Buck. Why the devil,[32] Upon this French going out, took he upon him, Without the privity o' the king, to appoint Who should attend on him? He makes up the file 75 Of all the gentry; for the most part such[33] To whom as great a charge as little honour[33] He meant to lay upon: and his own letter,[34][35][36] The honourable board of council out,[35][37] Must fetch him in he papers.[35][37][38]

Aber. I do know[35] 80 Kinsmen of mine, three at the least, that have By this so sicken'd their estates that never[39] They shall abound as formerly.

Buck. O, many Have broke their backs with laying manors on 'em[40] For this great journey. What did this vanity[41] 85 But minister communication of[42] A most poor issue?

Nor. Grievingly I think, The peace between the French and us not values The cost that did conclude it.

Buck. Every man, After the hideous storm that follow'd, was 90 A thing inspired, and not consulting broke Into a general prophecy: That this tempest, Dashing the garment of this peace, aboded The sudden breach on't.

Nor. Which is budded out; For France hath flaw'd the league, and hath attach'd 95 Our merchants' goods at Bourdeaux.[43]

Aber. Is it therefore The ambassador is silenced?

Nor. Marry, is't.

Aber. A proper title of a peace, and purchased[44] At a superfluous rate!

Buck. Why, all this business Our reverend cardinal carried.

Nor. Like it your grace,[45] 100 The state takes notice of the private difference Betwixt you and the cardinal. I advise you-- And take it from a heart that wishes towards you[46] Honour and plenteous safety--that you read The cardinal's malice and his potency 105 Together; to consider further that What his high hatred would effect wants not[47] A minister in his power. You know his nature, That he's revengeful, and I know his sword Hath a sharp edge; it's long and 't may be said 110 It reaches far, and where 'twill not extend, Thither he darts it. Bosom up my counsel; You'll find it wholesome. Lo, where comes that rock That I advise your shunning.[48]

Enter CARDINAL WOLSEY, _the purse borne before him, certain of the Guard, and two_ Secretaries with papers. The CARDINAL in his passage fixeth his eye on BUCKINGHAM, and BUCKINGHAM on him, both full of disdain.

Wol. The Duke of Buckingham's surveyor, ha?[49] 115 Where's his examination?

First Sec. Here, so please you.[50]

Wol. Is he in person ready?

First Sec. Ay, please your grace.[51]

Wol. Well, we shall then know more; and Buckingham[52] Shall lessen this big look. [Exeunt Wolsey and his Train.[52][53]

Buck. This butcher's cur is venom-mouth'd, and I[54] 120 Have not the power to muzzle him; therefore best Not wake him in his slumber. A beggar's book[55] Outworths a noble's blood.

Nor. What, are you chafed?[56] Ask God for temperance; that's the appliance only Which your disease requires.

Buck. I read in's looks 125 Matter against me, and his eye reviled[57] Me as his abject object: at this instant[57] He bores me with some trick: he's gone to the king;[58] I 'll follow and outstare him.

Nor. Stay, my lord, And let your reason with your choler question 130 What 'tis you go about: to climb steep hills Requires slow pace at first: anger is like A full-hot horse, who being allow'd his way,[59] Self-mettle tires him. Not a man in England Can advise me like you: be to yourself 135 As you would to your friend.

Buck. I'll to the king; And from a mouth of honour quite cry down This Ipswich fellow's insolence, or proclaim There's difference in no persons.

Nor. Be advised; Heat not a furnace for your foe so hot 140 That it do singe yourself: we may outrun, By violent swiftness, that which we run at, And lose by over-running. Know you not,[60] The fire that mounts the liquor till't run o'er In seeming to augment it wastes it? Be advised:[61] 145 I say again, there is no English soul More stronger to direct you than yourself,[62] If with the sap of reason you would quench, Or but allay, the fire of passion.

Buck. Sir, I am thankful to you; and I'll go along 150 By your prescription: but this top-proud fellow-- Whom from the flow of gall I name not but[63] From sincere motions--by intelligence And proofs as clear as founts in July when[64] We see each grain of gravel, I do know 155 To be corrupt and treasonous.

Nor. Say not 'treasonous.'

Buck. To the king I'll say 't; and make my vouch as strong As shore of rock. Attend. This holy fox, Or wolf, or both--for he is equal ravenous[65][66] As he is subtle, and as prone to mischief[65] 160 As able to perform't; his mind and place[65] Infecting one another, yea, reciprocally--[65] Only to show his pomp as well in France As here at home, suggests the king our master To this last costly treaty, the interview, 165 That swallow'd so much treasure, and like a glass Did break i' the rinsing.[67]

Nor. Faith, and so it did.

Buck. Pray, give me favour, sir. This cunning cardinal[68] The articles o' the combination drew[69] As himself pleased; and they were ratified 170 As he cried 'Thus let be,' to as much end[70] As give a crutch to the dead: but our count-cardinal[71] Has done this, and 'tis well; for worthy Wolsey, Who cannot err, he did it. Now this follows-- Which, as I take it, is a kind of puppy 175 To the old dam, treason--Charles the emperor, Under pretence to see the queen his aunt-- For 'twas indeed his colour, but he came To whisper Wolsey--here makes visitation: His fears were that the interview betwixt 180 England and France might through their amity Breed him some prejudice; for from this league Peep'd harms that menaced him: he privily[72] Deals with our cardinal; and, as I trow--[73] Which I do well, for I am sure the emperor 185 Paid ere he promised; whereby his suit was granted Ere it was ask'd--but when the way was made And paved with gold, the emperor thus desired,[74] That he would please to alter the king's course And break the foresaid peace. Let the king know, 190 As soon he shall by me, that thus the cardinal Does buy and sell his honour as he pleases And for his own advantage.[75]

NOR. I am sorry To hear this of him, and could wish he were[76] Something mistaken in't.

Buck. No, not a syllable: 195 I do pronounce him in that very shape He shall appear in proof.

Enter BRANDON, a Sergeant at arms before him, and two or three of the Guard.[77]

Bran. Your office, sergeant; execute it.

Serg. Sir,[78] My lord the Duke of Buckingham, and Earl Of Hereford, Stafford, and Northampton, I[79] 200 Arrest thee of high treason, in the name Of our most sovereign king.

Buck. Lo you, my lord,[80] The net has fall'n upon me! I shall perish Under device and practice.

Bran. I am sorry[81] To see you ta'en from liberty, to look on[81] 205 The business present: 'tis his highness' pleasure[81][82] You shall to the Tower.[81]

Buck. It will help me nothing To plead mine innocence; for that dye is on me Which makes my whitest part black. The will of heaven Be done in this and all things! I obey. 210 O my Lord Abergavenny, fare you well![83]

Bran. Nay, he must bear you company. [To Abergavenny.] The king[84] Is pleased you shall to the Tower, till you know How he determines further.

Aber. As the duke said, The will of heaven be done, and the king's pleasure 215 By me obey'd!

Bran. Here is a warrant from The king to attach Lord Montacute; and the bodies[85] Of the duke's confessor, John de la Car,[86] One Gilbert Peck, his chancellor,--[87]

Buck. So, so; These are the limbs o' the plot: no more, I hope. 220

Bran. A monk o' the Chartreux.

Buck. O, Nicholas Hopkins?[88]

Bran. He.

Buck. My surveyor is false; the o'er-great cardinal Hath show'd him gold; my life is spann'd already: I am the shadow of poor Buckingham, Whose figure even this instant cloud puts on,[89][90] 225 By darkening my clear sun. My lord, farewell. [Exeunt.[89][91]

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Act I, Scene II — The same. The council-chamber.

Cornets. Enter KING HENRY, leaning on the CARDINAL'S shoulder; the Nobles, and SIR THOMAS LOVELL: the CARDINAL places himself under the KING'S _feet on his right side_.[92]

King. My life itself, and the best heart of it, Thanks you for this great care: I stood i' the level Of a full-charged confederacy, and give thanks[93] To you that choked it. Let be call'd before us[94] That gentleman of Buckingham's; in person[95] 5 I'll hear him his confessions justify; And point by point the treasons of his master[96] He shall again relate.

A noise within, crying 'Room for the Queen!' Enter QUEEN KATHARINE, ushered by the DUKE OF NORFOLK, and the DUKE OF SUFFOLK: she kneels. The KING _riseth from his state, takes her up, kisses and placeth her by him_.[97]

Q. Kath. Nay, we must longer kneel: I am a suitor.

King. Arise, and take place by us: half your suit[98] 10 Never name to us; you have half our power: The other moiety ere you ask is given; Repeat your will and take it.

Q. Kath. Thank your majesty. That you would love yourself, and in that love Not unconsider'd leave your honour nor[99] 15 The dignity of your office, is the point Of my petition.

King. Lady mine, proceed.

Q. Kath. I am solicited, not by a few,[100] And those of true condition, that your subjects Are in great grievance: there have been commissions 20 Sent down among 'em, which hath flaw'd the heart[101] Of all their loyalties: wherein although, My good lord cardinal, they vent reproaches Most bitterly on you as putter on Of these exactions, yet the king our master-- 25 Whose honour heaven shield from soil!--even he escapes not Language unmannerly, yea, such which breaks The sides of loyalty and almost appears[102] In loud rebellion.

NOR. Not almost appears; It doth appear; for, upon these taxations, 30 The clothiers all, not able to maintain The many to them 'longing, have put off[103] The spinsters, carders, fullers, weavers, who, Unfit for other life, compell'd by hunger And lack of other means, in desperate manner 35 Daring the event to the teeth, are all in uproar, And danger serves among them.

King. Taxation! Wherein? and what taxation? My lord cardinal, You that are blamed for it alike with us, Know you of this taxation?

Wol. Please you, sir, 40 I know but of a single part in aught Pertains to the state, and front but in that file Where others tell steps with me.

Q. Kath. No, my lord,[104] You know no more than others: but you frame[104] Things that are known alike, which are not wholesome[105] 45 To those which would not know them and yet must Perforce be their acquaintance. These exactions, Whereof my sovereign would have note, they are Most pestilent to the hearing; and, to bear 'em,[106] The back is sacrifice to the load. They say 50 They are devised by you; or else you suffer[107] Too hard an exclamation.

King. Still exaction! The nature of it? in what kind, let's know, Is this exaction?

Q. Kath. I am much too venturous[108] In tempting of your patience, but am bolden'd 55 Under your promised pardon. The subjects' grief Comes through commissions, which compel from each[109] The sixth part of his substance, to be levied Without delay; and the pretence for this Is named your wars in France: this makes bold mouths: 60 Tongues spit their duties out, and cold hearts freeze Allegiance in them; their curses now[110] Live where their prayers did; and it's come to pass, This tractable obedience is a slave[111] To each incensed will. I would your highness 65 Would give it quick consideration, for There is no primer business.[112]

King. By my life, This is against our pleasure.

Wol. And for me, I have no further gone in this than by A single voice, and that not pass'd me but 70 By learned approbation of the judges. If I am[113] Traduced by ignorant tongues, which neither know[114] My faculties nor person, yet will be The chronicles of my doing, let me say 'Tis but the fate of place and the rough brake 75 That virtue must go through. We must not stint Our necessary actions, in the fear To cope malicious censurers; which ever, As ravenous fishes, do a vessel follow That is new-trimm'd, but benefit no further 80 Than vainly longing. What we oft do best, By sick interpreters, once weak ones, is[115] Not ours or not allow'd; what worst, as oft, Hitting a grosser quality, is cried up For our best act. If we shall stand still,[116] 85 In fear our motion will be mock'd or carp'd at,[117] We should take root here where we sit, or sit[118][119] State-statues only.[119]

King. Things done well,[120] And with a care, exempt themselves from fear; Things done without example, in their issue 90 Are to be fear'd. Have you a precedent[121] Of this commission? I believe, not any. We must not rend our subjects from our laws, And stick them in our will. Sixth part of each? A trembling contribution! Why, we take[122] 95 From every tree lop, bark, and part o' the timber,[123] And though we leave it with a root, thus hack'd,[124] The air will drink the sap. To every county Where this is question'd send our letters, with Free pardon to each man that has denied 100 The force of this commission: pray, look to't; I put it to your care.

Wol. [To the Secretary] A word with you.[125] Let there be letters writ to every shire, Of the king's grace and pardon. The grieved commons[126] Hardly conceive of me: let it be noised 105 That through our intercession this revokement And pardon comes: I shall anon advise you Further in the proceeding. [Exit Secretary.

Enter Surveyor.

Q. Kath. I am sorry that the Duke of Buckingham[127] Is run in your displeasure.

King. It grieves many:[128] 110 The gentleman is learn'd and a most rare speaker;[129] To nature none more bound; his training such That he may furnish and instruct great teachers And never seek for aid out of himself. Yet see,[130] When these so noble benefits shall prove[131] 115 Not well disposed, the mind growing once corrupt, They turn to vicious forms, ten times more ugly Than ever they were fair. This man so complete,[132] Who was enroll'd 'mongst wonders, and when we,[133] Almost with ravish'd listening, could not find[133][134] 120 His hour of speech a minute; he, my lady, Hath into monstrous habits put the graces That once were his, and is become as black As if besmear'd in hell. Sit by us; you shall hear--[135] This was his gentlemen in trust--of him 125 Things to strike honour sad. Bid him recount The fore-recited practices; whereof[136] We cannot feel too little, hear too much.

Wol. Stand forth, and with bold spirit relate what you, Most like a careful subject, have collected 130 Out of the Duke of Buckingham.

King. Speak freely.

Surv. First, it was usual with him, every day[137] It would infect his speech, that if the king Should without issue die, he'll carry it so[138] To make the sceptre his: these very words 135 I've heard him utter to his son-in-law, Lord Abergavenny, to whom by oath he menaced[139] Revenge upon the cardinal.

Wol. Please your highness, note[140] This dangerous conception in this point.[141][142] Not friended by his wish, to your high person[142] 140 His will is most malignant, and it stretches Beyond you to your friends.

Q. Kath. My learn'd lord cardinal, Deliver all with charity.

King. Speak on: How grounded he his title to the crown Upon our fail? to this point hast thou heard him 145 At any time speak aught?

Surv. He was brought to this[143] By a vain prophecy of Nicholas Henton.[144]

King. What was that Henton?[145]

Surv. Sir, a Chartreux friar, His confessor, who fed him every minute With words of sovereignty.

King. How know'st thou this? 150

Surv. Not long before your highness sped to France, The duke being at the Rose, within the parish Saint Lawrence Poultney, did of me demand What was the speech among the Londoners Concerning the French journey: I replied, 155 Men fear'd the French would prove perfidious,[146] To the king's danger. Presently the duke Said, 'twas the fear indeed, and that he doubted 'Twould prove the verity of certain words Spoke by a holy monk; 'that oft,' says he, 160 'Hath sent to me, wishing me to permit John de la Car, my chaplain, a choice hour[147] To hear from him a matter of some moment: Whom after under the confession's seal[148][149] He solemnly had sworn that what he spoke[148] 165 My chaplain to no creature living but[148] To me should utter, with demure confidence[148][150] This pausingly ensued: Neither the king nor's heirs,[151] Tell you the duke, shall prosper: bid him strive To gain the love o' the commonalty: the duke[152] 170 Shall govern England.'[153]

Q. Kath. If I know you well, You were the duke's surveyor and lost your office On the complaint o' the tenants: take good heed You charge not in your spleen a noble person And spoil your nobler soul: I say, take heed;[154] 175 Yes, heartily beseech you.[155]

King. Let him on.[156] Go forward.[156]

Surv. On my soul, I'll speak but truth. I told my lord the duke, by the devil's illusions The monk might be deceived; and that 'twas dangerous for him[157] To ruminate on this so far, until[157] 180 It forged him some design, which, being believed, It was much like to do: he answer'd 'Tush, It can do me no damage;' adding further, That, had the king in his last sickness fail'd, The cardinal's and Sir Thomas Lovell's heads 185 Should have gone off.

King. Ha! what, so rank? Ah, ha! There's mischief in this man: canst thou say further?

Surv. I can, my liege.

King. Proceed.

Surv. Being at Greenwich, After your highness had reproved the duke About Sir William Blomer--[158]

King. I remember[159] 190 Of such a time: being my sworn servant,[159][160] The duke retain'd him his. But on; what hence?

Surv. 'If' quoth he 'I for this had been committed, As to the Tower I thought, I would have play'd[161] The part my father meant to act upon 195 The usurper Richard; who, being at Salisbury, Made suit to come in's presence; which if granted,[162] As he made semblance of his duty, would[163] Have put his knife into him.'

King. A giant traitor!

Wol. Now, madam, may his highness live in freedom, 200 And this man out of prison?[164]

Q. Kath. God mend all!

King. There's something more would out of thee; what say'st?

Surv. After 'the duke his father,' with the 'knife,'[165] He stretch'd him, and with one hand on his dagger, Another spread on's breast, mounting his eyes, 205 He did discharge a horrible oath, whose tenour Was, were he evil used, he would outgo His father by as much as a performance Does an irresolute purpose.

King. There's his period, 210 To sheathe his knife in us. He is attach'd; Call him to present trial: if he may Find mercy in the law, 'tis his; if none, Let him not seek't of us: by day and night![166] He's traitor to the height. [Exeunt.[167]

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Act I, Scene III — An antechamber in the palace.

Enter the LORD CHAMBERLAIN and LORD SANDS.[168]

Cham. Is't possible the spells of France should juggle[169] Men into such strange mysteries?[170]

Sands. New customs, Though they be never so ridiculous, Nay, let 'em be unmanly, yet are follow'd.[171]

Cham. As far as I see, all the good our English 5 Have got by the late voyage is but merely[172] A fit or two o' the face; but they are shrewd ones; For when they hold 'em, you would swear directly Their very noses had been counsellors To Pepin or Clotharius, they keep state so. 10

Sands. They have all new legs, and lame ones: one would take it,[173] That never saw 'em pace before, the spavin[174] Or springhalt reign'd among 'em.[175]

Cham. Death! my lord, Their clothes are after such a pagan cut too,[176] That, sure, they've worn out Christendom.

Enter SIR THOMAS LOVELL.[177]

How now! 15 What news, Sir Thomas Lovell?

Lov. Faith, my lord, I hear of none but the new proclamation That's clapp'd upon the court-gate.

Cham. What is't for?

Lov. The reformation of our travell'd gallants, That fill the court with quarrels, talk, and tailors. 20

Cham. I'm glad 'tis there: now I would pray our monsieurs[178] To think an English courtier may be wise, And never see the Louvre.[179]

Lov. They must either, For so run the conditions, leave those remnants Of fool and feather that they got in France, 25 With all their honourable points of ignorance Pertaining thereunto, as fights and fireworks,[180] Abusing better men than they can be Out of a foreign wisdom, renouncing clean[181] The faith they have in tennis and tall stockings, 30 Short blister'd breeches and those types of travel,[182] And understand again like honest men, Or pack to their old playfellows: there, I take it, They may, 'cum privilegio,' wear away[183] The lag end of their lewdness, and be laugh'd at. 35

Sands. 'Tis time to give 'em physic, their diseases[184] Are grown so catching.

Cham. What a loss our ladies Will have of these trim vanities!

Lov. Ay, marry, There will be woe indeed, lords: the sly whoresons Have got a speeding trick to lay down ladies; 40 A French song and a fiddle has no fellow.

Sands. The devil fiddle 'em! I am glad they are going,[185] For, sure, there's no converting of 'em: now[186] An honest country lord, as I am, beaten A long time out of play, may bring his plain-song, 45 And have an hour of hearing; and, by'r lady, Held current music too.[187]

Cham. Well said, Lord Sands; Your colt's tooth is not cast yet.[188]

Sands. No, my lord; Nor shall not, while I have a stump.[189]

Cham. Sir Thomas, Whither were you a-going?[190]

Lov. To the cardinal's: 50 Your lordship is a guest too.

Cham. O, 'tis true: This night he makes a supper, and a great one, To many lords and ladies; there will be The beauty of this kingdom, I'll assure you.

Lov. That churchman bears a bounteous mind indeed,[191] 55 A hand as fruitful as the land that feeds us; His dews fall every where.[192]

Cham. No doubt he's noble; He had a black mouth that said other of him.

Sands. He may, my lord; has wherewithal: in him[193] Sparing would show a worse sin than ill doctrine: 60 Men of his way should be most liberal;[194] They are set here for examples.[195]

Cham. True, they are so; But few now give so great ones. My barge stays;[196] Your lordship shall along. Come, good Sir Thomas, We shall be late else; which I would not be, 65 For I was spoke to, with Sir Henry Guildford This night to be comptrollers.

Sands. I am your lordship's. [Exeunt.

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Act I, Scene IV — A Hall in York Place.

Hautboys. A small table under a state for the CARDINAL, _a longer table for the guests. Then enter_ ANNE BULLEN _and divers other_ Ladies and Gentlemen _as guests, at one door; at another door, enter_ SIR HENRY GUILDFORD.[197]

Guild. Ladies, a general welcome from his grace[198] Salutes ye all; this night he dedicates To fair content and you: none here, he hopes, In all this noble bevy, has brought with her One care abroad; he would have all as merry[199] 5 As, first, good company, good wine, good welcome,[200] Can make good people.

Enter LORD CHAMBERLAIN, LORD SANDS, and SIR THOMAS LOVELL.[201]

O, my lord, you're tardy: The very thought of this fair company Clapp'd wings to me.

Cham. You are young, Sir Harry Guildford.[202]

Sands. Sir Thomas Lovell, had the cardinal 10 But half my lay thoughts in him, some of these Should find a running banquet ere they rested, I think would better please 'em: by my life, They are a sweet society of fair ones.

Lov. O, that your lordship were but now confessor 15 To one or two of these!

Sands. I would I were; They should find easy penance.

Lov. Faith, how easy?

Sands. As easy as a down-bed would afford it.

Cham. Sweet ladies, will it please you sit? Sir Harry, Place you that side; I'll take the charge of this: 20 His grace is entering. Nay, you must not freeze; Two women placed together makes cold weather:[203] My Lord Sands, you are one will keep 'em waking; Pray, sit between these ladies.

Sands. By my faith, And thank your lordship. By your leave, sweet ladies:[204] 25 If I chance to talk a little wild, forgive me; I had it from my father.

Anne. Was he mad, sir?

Sands. O, very mad, exceeding mad, in love too: But he would bite none; just as I do now, He would kiss you twenty with a breath. [Kisses her.[205]

Cham. Well said, my lord. 30 So, now you're fairly seated. Gentlemen,[206] The penance lies on you, if these fair ladies Pass away frowning.

Sands. For my little cure,[207] Let me alone.

Hautboys. Enter CARDINAL WOLSEY, and takes his state.

Wol. You're welcome, my fair guests: that noble lady[208] 35 Or gentleman that is not freely merry, Is not my friend: this, to confirm my welcome;[209] And to you all, good health. [Drinks.[210]

Sands. Your grace is noble: Let me have such a bowl may hold my thanks, And save me so much talking.

Wol. My Lord Sands, 40 I am beholding to you: cheer your neighbours.[211] Ladies, you are not merry: gentlemen, Whose fault is this?

Sands. The red wine first must rise In their fair cheeks, my lord; then we shall have 'em Talk us to silence.

Anne. You are a merry gamester,[212] 45 My Lord Sands.[212][213]

Sands. Yes, if I make my play. Here's to your ladyship: and pledge it, madam, For 'tis to such a thing--[214]

Anne. You cannot show me.

Sands. I told your grace they would talk anon.

[Drum and trumpet: chambers discharged.[215]

Wol. What's that?

Cham. Look out there, some of ye. [Exit Servant.[216]

Wol. What warlike voice, 50 And to what end, is this? Nay, ladies, fear not; By all the laws of war you're privileged.[208]

Re-enter Servant.[217]

Cham. How now! what is't?

Serv. A noble troop of strangers; For so they seem: they've left their barge, and landed;[218] And hither make, as great ambassadors 55 From foreign princes.

Wol. Good lord chamberlain, Go, give 'em welcome; you can speak the French tongue;[219][220] And, pray, receive 'em nobly and conduct 'em[219] Into our presence, where this heaven of beauty Shall shine at full upon them. Some attend him. 60

[Exit Chamberlain, attended. All rise, and tables removed.[221]

You have now a broken banquet; but we'll mend it.[222] A good digestion to you all: and once more[223] I shower a welcome on ye; welcome all.

Hautboys. Enter the KING _and others, as masquers, habited like shepherds, ushered by the_ LORD CHAMBERLAIN. _They pass directly before the_ CARDINAL, _and gracefully salute him_.[224]

A noble company! what are their pleasures?

Cham. Because they speak no English, thus they pray'd[225] 65 To tell your grace, that, having heard by fame Of this so noble and so fair assembly This night to meet here, they could do no less, Out of the great respect they bear to beauty, But leave their flocks, and under your fair conduct 70 Crave leave to view these ladies and entreat An hour of revels with 'em.[226]

Wol. Say, lord chamberlain,[226] They have done my poor house grace; for which I pay 'em[226][227][228] A thousand thanks and pray 'em take their pleasures.[226][227]

[They choose. The King chooses Anne Bullen.[229]

King. The fairest hand I ever touch'd! O beauty, 75 Till now I never knew thee! [Music. Dance.

Wol. My lord![230]

Cham. Your grace?

Wol. Pray, tell 'em thus much from me:[231][232] There should be one amongst 'em, by his person,[231] More worthy this place than myself; to whom, If I but knew him, with my love and duty 80 I would surrender it.

Cham. I will, my lord.

[Whispers the Masquers.[233]

Wol. What say they?

Cham. Such a one, they all confess, There is indeed; which they would have your grace Find out, and he will take it.

Wol. Let me see then.[234] By all your good leaves, gentlemen; here I'll make 85 My royal choice.

King. [Unmasking] Ye have found him, cardinal:[235] You hold a fair assembly; you do well, lord: You are a churchman, or, I'll tell you, cardinal, I should judge now unhappily.[236]

Wol. I am glad Your grace is grown so pleasant.

King. My lord chamberlain, 90 Prithee, come hither: what fair lady's that?

Cham. An't please your grace, Sir Thomas Bullen's daughter,[237] The Viscount Rochford, one of her highness' women.[237][238]

King. By heaven, she is a dainty one. Sweetheart,[239] I were unmannerly, to take you out, 95 And not to kiss you. A health, gentlemen! Let it go round.

Wol. Sir Thomas Lovell, is the banquet ready I' the privy chamber?

Lov. Yes, my lord.

Wol. Your grace, I fear, with dancing is a little heated. 100

King. I fear, too much.

Wol. There's fresher air, my lord, In the next chamber.

King. Lead in your ladies, every one. Sweet partner, I must not yet forsake you. Let's be merry,[240] Good my lord cardinal: I have half a dozen healths[240][241] 105 To drink to these fair ladies, and a measure To lead 'em once again; and then let's dream Who's best in favour. Let the music knock it.[242]

[Exeunt with trumpets.

FOOTNOTES:

[9a] ACT I. SCENE I.] Actus Primus. Scæna Prima. Ff. The Acts and Scenes are indicated throughout in Ff.

London. An ante-chamber in the palace.] Theobald.

[10] saw] F₁ F₂. saw y' F₃ F₄.

[11] suns] sunnes F₁ F₂. sons F₃ F₄.

[12] Andren] F₁. Arde F₂ F₃ F₄. Ardres Rowe.

Arde] Ff. Ardres Rowe.

[13] them] 'em Pope.

[14] Which ... weigh'd] One line in Rowe (ed. 2). Two lines, the first ending they, in Ff.

[15] next ... last] last ... next Capell (Theobald conj.)

[16] wonders] wond'rers Theobald conj.

its] it's Ff. his Hanmer.

[17] heathen] F₁. Heathens F₂ F₃ F₄.

[18] censure. When] Rowe. censure, when Ff.

[19] former] old Pope.

[20] That] And Seymour conj.

[21] to] too F₁.

[22] All was royal ... business.] Arranged as by Theobald. Buc. All ... function: who ... together? Nor. As you ... businesse. F₁ F₂ F₃. Buck. All ... function: who ... together, As you guess. Nor. Once certes ... business. F₄.

[23] the office] each office Roderick conj.

[24] guess? Nor. One, certes] Theobald, guesse: One certes F₁. guesse: Once certes F₂ F₃. guess? Nor. One sure Pope.

[25] that] om. Seymour conj.

[26] I pray] Pray Pope.

[27] keech] Ketch F₄.

bulk] hulk Grey conj.

[28] Surely] Yet surely Pope. Now, surely Seymour conj.

[29] his self-drawing] his self-drawn Rowe (ed. 2) and Capell. himself drawing Theobald conj. his self drawing Staunton. 's self-drawing Dyce (ed. 2). his self-wrapping Bullock conj.]

web, he gives us note] Capell. web, a' gives us note or web erecting all The building of his greatness, he gives us note Id. conj. web. O gives us note F₁. web. O! gives us note F₂ F₃ F₄. web; this gives us note Pope. web. O! it gives us note Singer. web,--O! give us note!--Knight. web. O! this gives us note, Hunter conj. web,--Oh, give it note! Keightley.

[30] gives for him, which buys] gives, which for him buys Hanmer. gives; which buys for him Warburton. gives to him, which buys Johnson conj. has given him buys for him Hunter conj. gives him, and which buys Collier MS. gives: for him which buys Jervis conj.

[31] that?... hell,] Theobald (Warburton). that, ... hell? Ff.

[32] himself] himself now Keightley.

Why] But why Hanmer. And why Capell.

[33] such To whom] such On whom Hanmer. such Too, whom Capell. such, too, On whom Keightley (S. Walker conj.)

[34] meant] means Dyce conj.

[35] and ... papers.] Erased in Collier MS.

[36] letter] letter only Hanmer.

[37] council out, ... him in he] councell, out ... him in, he F₁ F₂. council, out ... him in, he F₃. council out ... him in, he F₄. council out) ... in him he Pope.

[38] he papers] the papers Campbell. he paupers Staunton conj. he prefers Keightley conj.

[39] sicken'd] slacken'd Theobald conj.

[40] 'em] them Capell.

[41] What] And what Capell conj.

vanity] great vanity Rowe (ed. 2).

[42] communication] the consummation Collier MS. consummation Collier (ed. 2).

[43] Bourdeaux] F₄. Burdeux F₁. Burdeaux F₂ F₃.

[44] a peace] peace F₄.

[45] Like it] Like't Hanmer.

[46] towards you] F₁ towards your F₂ F₃ F₄. you Pope.

[47] effect] affect Rowe (ed. 2).

[48] advise] advice F₁.

[49] SCENE II. Pope. Wol.] Rowe. Car. Ff. (and throughout.)

[50] First Sec.] 1 Sec. Capell. Secr. Ff.

[51] please] an't please F₃ F₄.

[52] Well, ... look.] As in Ff. As prose in Rowe (ed. 1). In Rowe (ed. 2), the lines end more ... look. It is well, ... look. Hanmer, ending lines 117, 118, an't please ... more.

[53] this] F₁ F₂. his F₃ F₄.

Wolsey] Cardinall Ff.

[54] venom-mouth'd] Pope. venome mouth'd Rowe. venom'd-mouth'd Ff.

[55] book] boche Becket conj. brood Collier (Collier MS). look Staunton conj. brat Lettsom conj.

[56] chafed] chaf'd F₃ F₄. chaff'd F₁ F₂.

[57] Keightley ends the lines reviled me, ... instant he.

[58] bores] bords Becket conj.

to the] to' th' F₁ F₂. to th' F₃ F₄.

[59] full-hot] F₄. full hot F₁ F₂ F₃.

[60] by] by our F₄.

[61] In seeming to] Seeming t' S. Walker conj.

[62] More] om. Pope, ending lines 145, 146 at be ... English.

[63] name] blame Johnson conj.

[64] July] Inly F₁.

when] where Long MS.

[65] for ... reciprocally] Put in parentheses by Capell. (for ... perform't) ... reciprocally, Ff.

[66] ravenous] ray'nous F₂.

[67] rinsing] Pope. wrenching Ff. See note (I).

[68] sir] om. Seymour conj.

[69] o' the] o' th' F₁ F₂. oth' F₃ F₄.

[70] Thus let] F₁ F₂. thus let it F₃ F₄. let it Pope.

[71] count-cardinal] court-cardinal Pope.

[72] he] om. F₁. he therefore Capell.

[73] trow] F₃ F₄. troa F₁ F₂.

[74] thus] then S. Walker conj.

[75] advantage.] advantage,-- Anon. conj.

[76] he] you F₄.

[77] Brandon,] Marney, Capell conj.

[78] SCENE III. Pope.

[79] Hereford] Capell. Hertford Ff.

[80] lord] lord, [to Nor. Capell.

[81] Bran. I ... Tower.] Nor. I ... liberty. Bran. To look ... Tower. Anon. conj.

[82] business present] business, present Deluis.

[83] Abergavenny] Aburgany Ff.

you] ye Rowe.

[84] [To Abergavenny.] Johnson.

[85] Montacute] Mountacute Ff. Montague Rowe.

[86] Car] Court Warburton.

[87] One] And Pope, ed. 2 (Theobald).

chancellor,--] Chappel. chancellor. Pope, ed. 2 (Theobald). councellour. F₁ F₂. counsellour. F₃ F₄.

[88] O] om. Hanmer.

Nicholas] Pope, ed. 2 (Theobald, from Holinshed). Michaell F₁ F₂ F₃. Michael F₄.

[89] Whose ... darkening] Whose figure, e'en this instant, clouds jut on, Dark'ning Becket conj.

[90] instant] upstart Jackson conj.

puts on] puts out Rann (Theobald conj.) pouts on Steevens conj.

[91] By darkening] Bedarkening Steevens conj.

lord] Rowe. lords Ff.

[92] SCENE II.] SCENE IV. Pope.

The same. The council-chamber.] The council-chamber. Theobald.

Cornets. Enter ...] Ff. See note (II).

[93] give] gives F₃.

[94] choked] check'd Keightley conj.

[95] Buckingham's; in person] Johnson. Buckinghams, in person, Ff. Buckingham's in person, Rowe.

[96] of] om. F₂.

[97] within] F₁. with F₂ F₃ F₄.

Queen!] Queene, vsher'd by the Duke of Norfolke. Ff.

Enter ... Suffolk:] Enter the Queene, Norfolke and Suffolke: Ff. Enter the Queen, usher'd by the Dukes of Norfolk and Suffolk. Warburton.

[98] place] your place Theobald.

[99] unconsider'd] Pope. unconsidered Ff.

[100] few] few, to tell you Keightley.

[101] hath] have F₄.

[102] sides] tides Becket conj. ties Collier (Collier MS.)

[103] many] meiny Johnson conj.

'longing] F₄. longing F₁ F₂ F₃.

[104] lord, ... others:] F₄. lord? ... others? F₁ F₂ F₃.

[105] Things that] The things Seymour conj.

known alike] known, belike Collier (Theobald conj.)

[106] bear 'em] bear them Capell.

[107] or else] if not Seymour conj.

[108] Is] In Pope (ed. 2).

[109] compel] Pope. compels Ff.

[110] their] Ff. all their Pope. nay, their Capell. that their Dyce, ed. 2 (S. Walker conj.)

[111] This] That Rowe. Their Collier (Collier MS.)

[112] business] Hanmer (Warburton) and Southern conj. MS. basenesse F₁ F₂ F₃. baseness F₄.

[113] learned] learn'd Keightley.

of the judges] Omitted by Capell.

[114] ignorant] om. Pope, reading as one line If I'm traduc'd ... know.

[115] sick] such Keightley conj.

interpreters, once weak ones] interpreters' conceivance Anon. conj.

once] Ff. or Pope. and Becket conj.

[116] act] action Capell.

shall] om. Rowe (ed. 2) and Pope, who ends the line at fear.

[117] carp'd] carped Pope.

[118] we sit, or sit] we sir; Or sir F₂ F₃.

[119] or sit State-statues] Hanmer. Or sit state-statues F₁ F₄, ending the previous line at we sit.

[120] done] that are done Hanmer.

well,] well, my lord, or well, lord cardinal, Keightley conj.

[121] precedent] president Ff. (ptesident F₂).

[122] trembling] trebling Collier (Collier MS.)

[123] lop] top Anon. conj.

[124] root, thus] Theobald (Warburton). roote thus Ff (root F₃ F₄).

[125] [To the Secretary] Rowe.

[126] grieved] griev'd Rowe.

[127] SCENE V. Pope.

I am] I'm Pope.

[128] run] one Collier MS.

King.] Quee. F₃.

[129] learn'd ... rare] learn'd, a most rare Pope. learned; a rare Seymour conj.

[130] never seek for] ne'er seek Ritson conj.

Yet see] Put in a separate line by Capell.

[131] these so] om. Pope, reading Yet ... prove as one line.

[132] complete] 'complish'd Hanmer.

[133] 'mongst wonders ... ravish'd] with wonder, and whom we Almost were ravish'd Johnson conj.

[134] ravish'd listening] list'ning ravish'd Pope.

[135] by us] om. Pope.

[136] The fore-recited] To force-recited Rowe (ed. 2). To fore-recited Pope.

[137] him, every day] Pope. him; every day F₁ F₂ F₃. him every day F₄. him every day, Rowe.

[138] he'll] he'd Pope.

[139] Abergavenny] Aburgany Ff.

[140] your highness] you Hanmer.

[141] This] His Pope.

[142] point. Not ... person] point: Not ... person Capell. point, Not ... wish to ... person; Ff.

[143] brought] wrought S. Walker conj.

[144] Henton] Ff. Hopkins Pope, ed. 2 (Theobald). Hopkins' Keightley.

[145] Henton] Ff. Hopkins Pope, ed. 2 (Theobald).

[146] fear'd] Pope. feare F₁ F₂ fear F₃ F₄.

[147] Car] Court Warburton.

[148] Whom after ... utter] Ff. Who (after ... utter) Pope.

[149] confession's] Theobald (from Holinshed). commissions Ff. communion's Warburton conj. (withdrawn).

[150] demure confidence] confidence demure Hanmer.

[151] This] Thus F₄.

nor's] nor his Capell.

[152] To gain] F₄. To F₁ F₂ F₃. For Steevens (1773, 1778). To win Grant White conj.

[153] England.] Ff. England-- Rowe.

[154] nobler] F₁. noble F₂ F₃ F₄.

[155] beseech] F₁ F₂. I beseech F₃ F₄.

[156] Let him ... forward] As in Pope. One line in Ff.

[157] dangerous for him To ... until] Capell. dangerous For this to ... untill Ff. dang'rous For him to ... until Rowe. dang'rous For him to ruminate on this, until Pope. dangerous From this to ruminate on it so far, until Collier (Collier MS.) dangerous From this to ruminate on it, until Collier conj. dangerous For him to ruminate this so far, until Lettsom conj.

for him] om. Anon. conj.

[158] Blomer] Pope. Blumer Ff (Bulmer Holinshed).

[159] I remember ... servant] Arranged as in Pope. One line in Ff.

[160] being] he being Pope.

sworn servant] servant sworn Steevens (1793).

[161] As to the Tower I thought] To the Tower, as I thought Hanmer. As I thought to the Tower Keightley.

thought,] thought; Ff.

[162] in's] in his Capell.

[163] would] he would Hanmer.

[164] prison?] Rowe. prison. Ff.

[165] 'the duke his father'] First marked as a quotation by Capell.

'knife'] First marked as a quotation by Capell.

[166] night!] night, Theobald. night Ff.

[167] He's traitor] He is a daring traitor Collier (Collier MS.)

[168] SCENE III.] SCENE VI. Pope.

antechamber ...] apartment ... Theobald. Anti-room ... Capell.

Sands] Rowe. Sandys Ff.

Seymour conjectures that this Scene is interpolated by Ben Jonson.

[169] Is't] Is it Steevens.

[170] mysteries] mimick'ries Hanmer. mockeries Warburton.

[171] 'em] them Malone.

[172] late] last Rowe (ed. 2).

[173] They ... take it] One line in Pope. Two in Ff.

[174] never] ever Capell conj.

saw 'em] Pope. see 'em Ff. saw them Capell.

[175] Or] Verplanck. And Pope. A Ff.

springhalt] stringhalt Hanmer (Theobald conj.)

reign'd] rain'd F₁.

[176] too] F₄. too' F₃. too't F₁ F₂.

[177] they've] Pope. th' have Ff.

Enter ...] Ff, after Lovell, line 16.

[178] I'm ... monsieurs] As in Pope. Two lines in Ff.

I'm] I' me F₃.

[179] Louvre] Rowe. Louure F₁ F₂. Lovure F₃ F₄.

[180] thereunto] thereupon Rowe (ed. 2).

[181] renouncing clean] clean renouncing Pope.

[182] blister'd] blistred F₁ F₂ F₃. bolstred F₄.

those] such Hanmer.

[183] wear] F₂ F₃ F₄. wee F₁. 'oui' Anon. conj.

[184] 'em] Capell. them F₄. him F₁ F₂ F₃.

[185] The ... going] One line in Pope. Two in Ff.

[186] of 'em: now] F₁ F₂ F₃. 'em: now F₄. 'em: now sirs, Pope.

[187] Held] Ff. Hold Boswell.

[188] yet.] Capell. yet? Ff.

[189] shall] shalt F₂.

[190] were] are Rowe (ed. 2).

a-going] a going Ff. going Warburton.

[191] That ... indeed] One line in Pope. Two in Ff.

[192] dews fall] dew falls Rowe.

[193] He ... him] One line in Rowe (ed. 2). Two in Ff.

has] ha's Ff. h'as Rowe (ed. 2). he has Capell.

wherewithal: in him] wherewithal: in him, Theobald (Thirlby conj.) wherewithall in him; Ff.

[194] way] sway Collier (Collier MS.)

[195] They are] They're Pope.

set] sent Collier MS.

[196] But ... stays] One line in Rowe (ed. 2). Two in Ff.

[197] SCENE IV.] SCENE VII. Pope.

A Hall in York Place.] Capell. York-house. Theobald.

Gentlemen] Gentlewomen. Steevens.

[198] Ladies ... grace] One line in Pope. Two in Ff.

[199] merry] merry, F₄. merry: F₁ F₂ F₃.

[200] first, good] F₁ F₂ F₃. first good F₄. first-good Theobald. fairs, good Mason conj. feast, good Staunton conj. just, good Grant White conj. far as good Dyce, ed. 2 (Halliwell conj.) thirst, good Anon. conj.

good wine] then good wine Hanmer.

[201] you're] Capell. y'are Ff. you are Steevens.

Sir Thomas Lovell.] Capell. Lovell. Ff.

[202] You are] You're Pope.

[203] makes] make Pope.

[204] [Seating himself between Anne Bullen, and another Lady. Capell.

[205] He would] He'd Hanmer.

[Kisses her.] Steevens.

[206] you're] Capell. y'are Ff. you are Steevens.

[207] cure] cue Rowe.

[208] You're] Capell. Y'are Ff. You are Steevens. Ye're Dyce.

[209] friend] fiend F₂.

[210] [Drinks.] Theobald. om. Ff.

[211] beholding] beholden Pope.

neighbours] F₁. neighbour F₂ F₃ F₄.

[212] You are ... Sands] As one line, Boswell conj.

[213] make] may make Hanmer. may choose Capell. can make Keightley.

[214] thing--] Rowe. thing. Ff.

[215] they] that they Rowe (ed. 2). how they Collier (Collier MS.)

[Drum ...] Ff (trumpets. F₄), after line 48. Trumpets within ... Capell.

[216] [Exit Servant.] Steevens. Exit an Att. Capell. om. Ff.

[217] Re-enter Servant.] Steevens. Re-enter an Attendant. Capell. Enter a servant. Ff.

[218] they've] Collier. th' have F₁ F₂ F₃. they have F₄. have Pope.

[219] 'em] Ff. them Malone.

[220] the French tongue] the French-tongue F₄. the French or their tongue Anon. conj.

[221] [Exit ... attended.] Capell. om. Ff.

[222] You have] You've Pope.

[223] digestion] F₁. disgestion F₂ F₃ F₄.

and] om. Seymour conj.

[224] ye] you Capell.

the King and others] King and others. Ff. the King and twelve others. Malone (from Holinshed).

shepherds] shepherds, with sixteen torch-bearers. Malone (from Holinshed).

[225] pray'd] pray'd me Collier, ed. 2 (S. Walker conj.)

[226] 'em] Ff. them Capell.

[227] They have] They've Pope.

[228] They have ... pleasures] As in Pope. As three lines in Ff, ending grace ... thankes ... pleasures.

[229] [They choose ...] Choose Ladies, King and Anne Bullen. Ff (An. F₁).

[230] My lord] Good my lord Hanmer.

[231] ’em] Ff. them Malone.

[232] from me] as from me Hanmer.

[233] [Whispers the Masquers] Capell. Whisper. Ff (after it, line 81).

[234] [Comes from his State. Capell.

[235] Ye have] You have Rowe. You've Pope.

[Unmasking] Capell. om. Ff.

[236] now] you Rowe (ed. 2).

[237] An’'t ... women] As in Pope. As three lines in Ff, ending Grace ... Rochford ... women.

[238] highness'] Highnesse F₁ F₂ F₃. Highnesses F₄.

[239] she is] Ff. she's Rowe.

[To Anne Bullen. Rowe.

[240] merry, ... cardinal:] Ff. merry. Good ... cardinal, Warburton.

[241] half] om. Rowe (ed. 2).

[242] knock it] strike Hanmer. Westminster ...] Edd. A Street. Theobald. London ... Dyce.

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Act II, Scene I — Westminster. A street.

Enter two Gentlemen, meeting.[243]

First Gent. Whither away so fast?

Sec. Gent. O, God save ye![244] Even to the hall, to hear what shall become[245] Of the great Duke of Buckingham.

First Gent. I'll save you That labour, sir. All's now done, but the ceremony Of bringing back the prisoner.

Sec. Gent. Were you there? 5

First Gent. Yes, indeed was I.

Sec. Gent. Pray, speak what has happen'd.[246]

First Gent. You may guess quickly what.

Sec. Gent. Is he found guilty?

First Gent. Yes, truly is he, and condemn'd upon 't.[247]

Sec. Gent. I am sorry for 't.[248]

First Gent. So are a number more.

Sec. Gent. But, pray, how pass'd it? 10

First Gent. I'll tell you in a little. The great duke Came to the bar; where to his accusations He pleaded still not guilty and alleged[249] Many sharp reasons to defeat the law. The king's attorney on the contrary 15 Urged on the examinations, proofs, confessions[250] Of divers witnesses; which the duke desired To have brought viva voce to his face:[251] At which appear'd against him his surveyor; Sir Gilbert Peck his chancellor; and John Car, 20 Confessor to him; with that devil monk, Hopkins, that made this mischief.

Sec. Gent. That was he That fed him with his prophecies?[252]

First Gent. The same. All these accused him strongly; which he fain Would have flung from him, but indeed he could not: 25 And so his peers upon this evidence Have found him guilty of high treason. Much He spoke, and learnedly, for life, but all Was either pitied in him or forgotten.

Sec. Gent. After all this, how did he bear himself? 30

First Gent. When he was brought again to the bar, to hear His knell rung out, his judgement, he was stirr'd With such an agony, he sweat extremely[253] And something spoke in choler, ill and hasty: But he fell to himself again and sweetly 35 In all the rest show'd a most noble patience.

Sec. Gent. I do not think he fears death.

First Gent. Sure, he does not; He never was so womanish; the cause He may a little grieve at.

Sec. Gent. Certainly The cardinal is the end of this.[254]

First Gent. 'Tis likely, 40 By all conjectures: first, Kildare's attainder,[255] Then deputy of Ireland; who removed, Earl Surrey was sent thither, and in haste too, Lest he should help his father.

Sec. Gent. That trick of state Was a deep envious one.[256]

First Gent. At his return 45 No doubt he will requite it. This is noted, And generally, whoever the king favours, The cardinal instantly will find employment,[257] And far enough from court too.

Sec. Gent. All the commons Hate him perniciously, and, o' my conscience, 50 Wish him ten fathom deep: this duke as much They love and dote on; call him bounteous Buckingham, The mirror of all courtesy--[258]

First Gent. Stay there, sir, And see the noble ruin'd man you speak of.

Enter BUCKINGHAM from his arraignment, tipstaves before him, the axe with the edge towards him, halberds on each side, accompanied with SIR THOMAS LOVELL, SIR NICHOLAS VAUX, SIR WALTER SANDS, and common people, &c.[259]

Sec. Gent. Let's stand close, and behold him.

Buck. All good people,[260] 55 You that thus far have come to pity me,[261] Hear what I say, and then go home and lose me. I have this day received a traitor's judgement, And by that name must die: yet, heaven bear witness, And if I have a conscience, let it sink me, 60 Even as the axe falls, if I be not faithful! The law I bear no malice for my death;[262] 'T has done upon the premisses but justice:[263] But those that sought it I could wish more Christians: Be what they will, I heartily forgive 'em:[264] 65 Yet let 'em look they glory not in mischief,[264] Nor build their evils on the graves of great men;[265] For then my guiltless blood must cry against 'em. For further life in this world I ne'er hope, Nor will I sue, although the king have mercies[266] 70 More than I dare make faults. You few that loved me[267] And dare be bold to weep for Buckingham, His noble friends and fellows, whom to leave Is only bitter to him, only dying, Go with me, like good angels, to my end, 75 And, as the long divorce of steel falls on me, Make of your prayers one sweet sacrifice And lift my soul to heaven. Lead on, o' God's name.[268]

Lov. I do beseech your grace, for charity, If ever any malice in your heart 80 Were hid against me, now to forgive me frankly.[269]

Buck. Sir Thomas Lovell, I as free forgive you As I would be forgiven: I forgive all; There cannot be those numberless offences 'Gainst me, that I cannot take peace with: no black envy[270][271][272][273] 85 Shall make my grave. Commend me to his grace,[270][272] And if he speak of Buckingham, pray tell him You met him half in heaven: my vows and prayers Yet are the king's, and, till my soul forsake,[274] Shall cry for blessings on him: may he live 90 Longer than I have time to tell his years! Ever beloved and loving may his rule be![275] And when old time shall lead him to his end, Goodness and he fill up one monument!

Lov. To the water side I must conduct your grace; 95 Then give my charge up to Sir Nicholas Vaux, Who undertakes you to your end.

Vaux. Prepare there; The duke is coming: see the barge be ready, And fit it with such furniture as suits The greatness of his person.

Buck. Nay, Sir Nicholas, 100 Let it alone; my state now will but mock me.[276] When I came hither, I was lord high constable And Duke of Buckingham; now, poor Edward Bohun:[277] Yet I am richer than my base accusers, That never knew what truth meant: I now seal it; 105 And with that blood will make 'em one day groan for't. My noble father, Henry of Buckingham, Who first raised head against usurping Richard, Flying for succour to his servant Banister, Being distress'd, was by that wretch betray'd, 110 And without trial fell; God's peace be with him! Henry the Seventh succeeding, truly pitying My father's loss, like a most royal prince, Restored me to my honours, and out of ruins Made my name once more noble. Now his son, 115 Henry the Eighth, life, honour, name and all[278] That made me happy, at one stroke has taken For ever from the world. I had my trial, And must needs say, a noble one; which makes me A little happier than my wretched father: 120 Yet thus far we are one in fortunes: both[279] Fell by our servants, by those men we loved most;[280] A most unnatural and faithless service! Heaven has an end in all: yet, you that hear me, This from a dying man receive as certain: 125 Where you are liberal of your loves and counsels Be sure you be not loose; for those you make friends[281] And give your hearts to, when they once perceive The least rub in your fortunes, fall away Like water from ye, never found again 130 But where they mean to sink ye. All good people,[282] Pray for me! I must now forsake ye: the last hour[283] Of my long weary life is come upon me.[284] Farewell:[285] And when you would say something that is sad,[284][286] 135 Speak how I fell. I have done; and God forgive me![287]

[Exeunt Duke and Train.

First Gent. O, this is full of pity! Sir, it calls, I fear, too many curses on their heads That were the authors.

Sec. Gent. If the duke be guiltless, 'Tis full of woe: yet I can give you inkling 140 Of an ensuing evil, if it fall, Greater than this.

First Gent. Good angels keep it from us! What may it be? You do not doubt my faith, sir?[288]

Sec. Gent. This secret is so weighty, 'twill require A strong faith to conceal it.

First Gent. Let me have it; 145 I do not talk much.

Sec. Gent. I am confident; You shall, sir: did you not of late days hear A buzzing of a separation Between the king and Katharine?

First Gent. Yes, but it held not:[289] For when the king once heard it, out of anger 150 He sent command to the lord mayor straight[290] To stop the rumour and allay those tongues That durst disperse it.

See. Gent. But that slander, sir, Is found a truth now: for it grows again[291] Fresher than e'er it was, and held for certain 155 The king will venture at it. Either the cardinal, Or some about him near, have, out of malice To the good queen, possess'd him with a scruple That will undo her: to confirm this too, Cardinal Campeius is arrived, and lately; 160 As all think, for this business.

First Gent. 'Tis the cardinal; And merely to revenge him on the emperor, For not bestowing on him at his asking The archbishopric of Toledo, this is purposed.

Sec. Gent. I think you have hit the mark: but is't not cruel[292] 165 That she should feel the smart of this? The cardinal Will have his will, and she must fall.

First Gent. 'Tis woeful. We are too open here to argue this; Let's think in private more. [Exeunt.[293]

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Act II, Scene II — An ante-chamber in the palace.

Enter the LORD CHAMBERLAIN, reading a letter.[294]

Cham. 'My lord, the horses your lordship sent for, with all the[295] care I had, I saw well chosen, ridden, and furnished. They were[295] young and handsome, and of the best breed in the north. When they[295] were ready to set out for London, a man of my lord cardinal's, by[295] commission and main power, took 'em from me; with this reason: His[295][296] 5 master would be served before a subject, if not before the king; which[295] stopped our mouths, sir.'[295][297] I fear he will indeed: well, let him have them:[298] He will have all, I think.[298]

Enter to the LORD CHAMBERLAIN, the DUKES OF NORFOLK and SUFFOLK.

Nor. Well met, my lord chamberlain.[299] 10

Cham. Good day to both your graces.

Suf. How is the king employ'd?

Cham. I left him private, Full of sad thoughts and troubles.

Nor. What's the cause?

Cham. It seems the marriage with his brother's wife Has crept too near his conscience.

Suf. No, his conscience 15 Has crept too near another lady.

Nor. 'Tis so: This is the cardinal's doing, the king-cardinal:[300] That blind priest, like the eldest son of fortune, Turns what he list. The king will know him one day.[301]

Suf. Pray God he do! he'll never know himself else.[302] 20

Nor. How holily he works in all his business![303] And with what zeal! for, now he has crack'd the league Between us and the emperor, the queen's great nephew.[304] He dives into the king's soul, and there scatters Dangers, doubts, wringing of the conscience,[305] 25 Fears and despairs; and all these for his marriage:[306] And out of all these to restore the king, He counsels a divorce; a loss of her That, like a jewel, has hung twenty years About his neck, yet never lost her lustre, 30 Of her that loves him with that excellence That angels love good men with, even of her That, when the greatest stroke of fortune falls, Will bless the king: and is not this course pious?

Cham. Heaven keep me from such counsel! 'Tis most true 35 These news are every where; every tongue speaks 'em, And every true heart weeps for't: all that dare Look into these affairs see this main end,[307] The French king's sister. Heaven will one day open The king's eyes that so long have slept upon 40 This bold bad man.

Suf. And free us from his slavery.

Nor. We had need pray, And heartily, for our deliverance;[308] Or this imperious man will work us all From princes into pages: all men's honours 45 Lie like one lump before him, to be fashion'd[309] Into what pitch he please.[310]

Suf. For me, my lords, I love him not, nor fear him; there's my creed: As I am made without him, so I'll stand, If the king please; his curses and his blessings 50 Touch me alike; they're breath I not believe in.[311] I knew him, and I know him; so I leave him To him that made him proud, the pope.

Nor. Let's in; And with some other business put the king From these sad thoughts that work too much upon him: 55 My lord, you'll bear us company?

Cham. Excuse me; The king has sent me otherwhere: besides, You'll find a most unfit time to disturb him:[312] Health to your lordships.

Nor. Thanks, my good lord chamberlain.

[Exit Lord Chamberlain; and the King draws the curtain and sits reading pensively.[313]

Suf. How sad he looks! sure, he is much afflicted.[314] 60

King. Who's there, ha?

Nor. Pray God he be not angry.[315]

King. Who's there, I say? How dare you thrust yourselves Into my private meditations? Who am I? ha?

Nor. A gracious king that pardons all offences 65 Malice ne'er meant: our breach of duty this way Is business of estate, in which we come To know your royal pleasure.

King. Ye are too bold:[316] Go to; I'll make ye know your times of business: Is this an hour for temporal affairs, ha? 70

Enter WOLSEY and CAMPEIUS, with a commission.[317]

Who's there? my good lord cardinal? O my Wolsey, The quiet of my wounded conscience, Thou art a cure fit for a king. [To Camp.] You're welcome,[318] Most learned reverend sir, into our kingdom: Use us and it. [To Wols.] My good lord, have great care[319] 75 I be not found a talker.

Wol. Sir, you cannot. I would your grace would give us but an hour Of private conference.

King. [To Nor. and Suf.] We are busy; go.

Nor. [Aside to Suf.] This priest has no pride in him?[320]

Suf. [Aside to Nor.] Not to speak of:[321][322] I would not be so sick though for his place:[321] 80 But this cannot continue.[321][323]

Nor. [Aside to Suf.] If it do,[321][323] I'll venture one have-at-him.[324]

Suf. [Aside to Nor.] I another.

[Exeunt Norfolk and Suffolk.

Wol. Your grace has given a precedent of wisdom[325] Above all princes, in committing freely Your scruple to the voice of Christendom: 85 Who can be angry now? what envy reach you? The Spaniard, tied by blood and favour to her, Must now confess, if they have any goodness, The trial just and noble. All the clerks, I mean the learned ones, in Christian kingdoms[326] 90 Have their free voices: Rome, the nurse of judgement,[327] Invited by your noble self, hath sent One general tongue unto us, this good man, This just and learned priest, Cardinal Campeius;[328] Whom once more I present unto your highness. 95

King. And once more in mine arms I bid him welcome, And thank the holy conclave for their loves: They have sent me such a man I would have wish'd for.[329]

Cam. Your grace must needs deserve all strangers' loves, You are so noble. To your highness' hand 100 I tender my commission; by whose virtue, The court of Rome commanding, you, my lord[330] Cardinal of York, are join'd with me their servant In the impartial judging of this business.

King. Two equal men. The queen shall be acquainted 105 Forthwith for what you come. Where's Gardiner?

Wol. I know your majesty has always loved her So dear in heart, not to deny her that[331] A woman of less place might ask by law, Scholars allow'd freely to argue for her. 110

King. Ay, and the best she shall have; and my favour To him that does best: God forbid else. Cardinal, Prithee, call Gardiner to me, my new secretary: I find him a fit fellow. [Exit Wolsey.

Re-enter WOLSEY, with GARDINER.[332]

Wol. [Aside to Gard.] Give me your hand: much joy and favour to you;[333] 115 You are the king's now.

Gard. [Aside to Wol.] But to be commanded[333] For ever by your grace, whose hand has raised me.

King. Come hither, Gardiner. [Walks and whispers.[334]

Cam. My Lord of York, was not one Doctor Pace In this man's place before him?

Wol. Yes, he was. 120

Cam. Was he not held a learned man?

Wol. Yes, surely.

Cam. Believe me, there's an ill opinion spread then, Even of yourself, lord cardinal.

Wol. How! of me?

Cam. They will not stick to say you envied him, And fearing he would rise, he was so virtuous, 125 Kept him a foreign man still; which so grieved him That he ran mad and died.

Wol. Heaven's peace be with him! That's Christian care enough: for living murmurers There's places of rebuke. He was a fool; For he would needs be virtuous: that good fellow, 130 If I command him, follows my appointment: I will have none so near else. Learn this, brother, We live not to be grip'd by meaner persons.

King. Deliver this with modesty to the queen.

[Exit Gardiner.

The most convenient place that I can think of 135 For such receipt of learning is Black-Friars; There ye shall meet about this weighty business. My Wolsey, see it furnish'd. O, my lord, Would it not grieve an able man to leave So sweet a bedfellow? But, conscience, conscience! 140 O, 'tis a tender place; and I must leave her. [Exeunt.

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Act II, Scene III — An ante-chamber of the Queen's apartments.[335]

Enter ANNE BULLEN and an old Lady.

Anne. Not for that neither: here's the pang that pinches: His highness having lived so long with her, and she[336] So good a lady that no tongue could ever Pronounce dishonour of her--by my life, She never knew harm-doing--O, now, after 5 So many courses of the sun enthroned, Still growing in a majesty and pomp, the which[337][338] To leave a thousand-fold more bitter than[337] 'Tis sweet at first to acquire--after this process,[337] To give her the avaunt! it is a pity 10 Would move a monster.

Old L. Hearts of most hard temper Melt and lament for her.

Anne. O, God's will! much better[339] She ne'er had known pomp: though 't be temporal, Yet, if that quarrel, fortune, do divorce[340] It from the bearer, 'tis a sufferance panging 15 As soul and body's severing.

Old L. Alas, poor lady![341] She's a stranger now again.[342]

Anne. So much the more Must pity drop upon her. Verily, I swear, 'tis better to be lowly born And range with humble livers in content 20 Than to be perk'd up in a glistering grief And wear a golden sorrow.

Old L. Our content Is our best having.

Anne. By my troth and maidenhead, I would not be a queen.

Old L. Beshrew me, I would, And venture maidenhead for't; and so would you, 25 For all this spice of your hypocrisy: You, that have so fair parts of woman on you, Have too a woman's heart; which ever yet Affected eminence, wealth, sovereignty; Which, to say sooth, are blessings; and which gifts-- 30 Saving your mincing--the capacity Of your soft cheveril conscience would receive,[343] If you might please to stretch it.

Anne. Nay, good troth.[344]

Old L. Yes, troth, and troth; you would not be a queen?

Anne. No, not for all the riches under heaven. 35

Old L. 'Tis strange: a three-pence bow'd would hire me,[345] Old as I am, to queen it: but, I pray you, What think you of a duchess? have you limbs To bear that load of title?

Anne. No, in truth.

Old L. Then you are weakly made: pluck off a little;[346] 40 I would not be a young count in your way, For more than blushing comes to: if your back Cannot vouchsafe this burthen, 'tis too weak Ever to get a boy.

Anne. How you do talk![347] I swear again, I would not be a queen 45 For all the world.

Old L. In faith, for little England You'ld venture an emballing: I myself[348] Would for Carnarvonshire, although there 'long'd[349] No more to the crown but that. Lo, who comes here?

Enter the LORD CHAMBERLAIN.

Cham. Good morrow, ladies. What were't worth to know 50 The secret of your conference?

Anne. My good lord, Not your demand; it values not your asking: Our mistress' sorrows we were pitying.

Cham. It was a gentle business, and becoming The action of good women: there is hope 55 All will be well.

Anne. Now, I pray God, amen!

Cham. You bear a gentle mind, and heavenly blessings Follow such creatures. That you may, fair lady, Perceive I speak sincerely, and high note's[350] Ta'en of your many virtues, the king's majesty 60 Commends his good opinion of you, and[351] Does purpose honour to you no less flowing Than Marchioness of Pembroke; to which title A thousand pound a year, annual support,[352] Out of his grace he adds.

Anne. I do not know 65 What kind of my obedience I should tender;[353] More than my all is nothing: nor my prayers[354] Are not words duly hallow'd, nor my wishes More worth than empty vanities; yet prayers and wishes[355] Are all I can return. Beseech your lordship, 70 Vouchsafe to speak my thanks and my obedience, As from a blushing handmaid, to his highness, Whose health and royalty I pray for.

Cham. Lady, I shall not fail to approve the fair conceit[356] The king hath of you. [Aside] I have perused her well;[357] 75 Beauty and honour in her are so mingled[357] That they have caught the king: and who knows yet[357] But from this lady may proceed a gem[357] To lighten all this isle?--I'll to the king,[357] And say I spoke with you.[357]

Anne. My honour'd lord. 80

[Exit Lord Chamberlain.[358]

Old L. Why, this it is; see, see! I have been begging sixteen years in court, Am yet a courtier beggarly, nor could[359] Come pat betwixt too early and too late For any suit of pounds; and you, O fate! 85 A very fresh fish here--fie, fie, fie upon[360] This compell'd fortune!--have your mouth fill'd up Before you open it.

Anne. This is strange to me.

Old L. How tastes it? is it bitter? forty pence, no.[361] There was a lady once, 'tis an old story,[362] 90 That would not be a queen, that would she not, For all the mud in Egypt: have you heard it?

Anne. Come, you are pleasant.

Old L. With your theme, I could O'ermount the lark. The Marchioness of Pembroke! A thousand pounds a year for pure respect! 95 No other obligation! By my life,[363] That promises moe thousands: honour's train[364] Is longer than his foreskirt. By this time I know your back will bear a duchess: say, Are you not stronger than you were?

Anne. Good lady, 100 Make yourself mirth with your particular fancy, And leave me out on't. Would I had no being, If this salute my blood a jot: it faints me,[365] To think what follows. The queen is comfortless, and we forgetful 105 In our long absence: pray, do not deliver What here you've heard to her.

Old L. What do you think me?[366]

[Exeunt.

Spotted a typo or a problem in this chapter? Tell us

Act II, Scene IV — A hall in Black-Friars.

Trumpets, sennet and cornets. Enter two Vergers, _with short silver wands; next them, two_ Scribes, _in the habit of doctors; after them, the_ ARCHBISHOP OF CANTERBURY _alone; after him, the_ BISHOPS OF LINCOLN, ELY, ROCHESTER, and Saint ASAPH; _next them, with some small distance, follows a_ Gentleman _bearing the purse, with the great seal, and a cardinal's hat; then two_ Priests, _bearing each a silver cross; then a_ Gentleman Usher _bare-headed, accompanied with a_ Sergeant at arms bearing a silver mace; then two Gentlemen _bearing two great silver pillars; after them, side by side, the two_ CARDINALS; two Noblemen _with the sword and mace. The_ KING _takes place under the cloth of state; the two_ CARDINALS sit under him as judges. The QUEEN takes place some distance from the KING. The BISHOPS _place themselves on each side the court, in manner of a consistory; below them, the_ Scribes. The LORDS _sit next the_ BISHOPS. The rest of the Attendants _stand in convenient order about the stage_.[367]

Wol. Whilst our commission from Rome is read, Let silence be commanded.

King. What's the need? It hath already publicly been read, And on all sides the authority allow'd; You may then spare that time.

Wol. Be't so. Proceed. 5

Scribe. Say, Henry King of England, come into the court.

Crier. Henry King of England, &c.

King. Here.

Scribe. Say, Katharine Queen of England, come into[368] 10 the court.[368]

Crier. Katharine Queen of England, &c.

[The Queen makes no answer, rises out of her chair, goes about the court, comes to the King, and kneels at his feet; then speaks.

Q. Kath. Sir, I desire you do me right and justice,[369] And to bestow your pity on me; for I am a most poor woman and a stranger, 15 Born out of your dominions; having here No judge indifferent, nor no more assurance[370] Of equal friendship and proceeding. Alas, sir, In what have I offended you? what cause Hath my behaviour given to your displeasure, 20 That thus you should proceed to put me off And take your good grace from me? Heaven witness, I have been to you a true and humble wife,[371] At all times to your will conformable, Ever in fear to kindle your dislike, 25 Yea, subject to your countenance, glad or sorry As I saw it inclined: when was the hour[372] I ever contradicted your desire, Or made it not mine too? Or which of your friends[373] Have I not strove to love, although I knew 30 He were mine enemy? what friend of mine[374] That had to him derived your anger, did I Continue in my liking? nay, gave notice[375] He was from thence discharged? Sir, call to mind[376] That I have been your wife, in this obedience, 35 Upward of twenty years, and have been blest With many children by you: if in the course And process of this time you can report, And prove it too, against mine honour aught, My bond to wedlock or my love and duty,[377][378] 40 Against your sacred person, in God's name,[378] Turn me away, and let the foul'st contempt[379] Shut door upon me, and so give me up To the sharp'st kind of justice. Please you, sir,[380] The king, your father, was reputed for 45 A prince most prudent, of an excellent[381] And unmatch'd wit and judgement: Ferdinand, My father, king of Spain, was reckon'd one The wisest prince that there had reign'd by many A year before: it is not to be question'd 50 That they had gather'd a wise council to them Of every realm, that did debate this business, Who deem'd our marriage lawful: wherefore I humbly[382][383] Beseech you, sir, to spare me, till I may[383] Be by my friends in Spain advised, whose counsel 55 I will implore: if not, i' the name of God, Your pleasure be fulfill'd!

Wol. You have here, lady, And of your choice, these reverend fathers; men Of singular integrity and learning, Yea, the elect o' the land, who are assembled 60 To plead your cause: it shall be therefore bootless That longer you desire the court, as well[384] For your own quiet, as to rectify What is unsettled in the king.

Cam. His grace Hath spoken well and justly: therefore, madam, 65 It's fit this royal session do proceed, And that without delay their arguments Be now produced and heard.

Q. Kath. Lord cardinal,[385] To you I speak.[385]

Wol. Your pleasure, madam?

Q. Kath. Sir,[386][387] I am about to weep; but, thinking that[386] 70 We are a queen, or long have dream'd so, certain The daughter of a king, my drops of tears I'll turn to sparks of fire.

Wol. Be patient yet.[388]

Q. Kath. I will, when you are humble; nay, before, Or God will punish me. I do believe,[389] 75 Induced by potent circumstances, that You are mine enemy, and make my challenge[390] You shall not be my judge: for it is you Have blown this coal betwixt my lord and me; Which God's dew quench! Therefore I say again, 80 I utterly abhor, yea, from my soul Refuse you for my judge; whom, yet once more, I hold my most malicious foe and think not At all a friend to truth.

Wol. I do profess You speak not like yourself; who ever yet 85 Have stood to charity and display'd the effects Of disposition gentle and of wisdom O'ertopping woman's power. Madam, you do me wrong:[391] I have no spleen against you, nor injustice For you or any: how far I have proceeded,[392] 90 Or how far further shall, is warranted[393] By a commission from the consistory, Yea, the whole consistory of Rome. You charge me That I have blown this coal: I do deny it: The king is present: if it be known to him[394] 95 That I gainsay my deed, how may he wound,[395] And worthily, my falsehood! yea, as much As you have done my truth. If he know[396] That I am free of your report, he knows I am not of your wrong. Therefore in him 100 It lies to cure me; and the cure is to Remove these thoughts from you: the which before His highness shall speak in, I do beseech You, gracious madam, to unthink your speaking And to say so no more.[397]

Q. Kath. My lord, my lord, 105 I am a simple woman, much too weak To oppose your cunning. You're meek and humble-mouth'd;[398] You sign your place and calling, in full seeming, With meekness and humility; but your heart Is cramm'd with arrogancy, spleen, and pride.[399] 110 You have, by fortune and his highness' favours,[400] Gone slightly o'er low steps and now are mounted[401] Where powers are your retainers, and your words,[402] Domestics to you, serve your will as't please Yourself pronounce their office. I must tell you, 115 You tender more your person's honour than Your high profession spiritual; that again I do refuse you for my judge, and here, Before you all, appeal unto the pope, To bring my whole cause 'fore his holiness, 120 And to be judged by him.

[She curtsies to the King, and offers to depart.

Cam. The queen is obstinate, Stubborn to justice, apt to accuse it and Disdainful to be tried by't: 'tis not well. She's going away.

King. Call her again. 125

Crier. Katharine Queen of England, come into the court.

Gent. Ush. Madam, you are call'd back.[403]

Q. Kath. What need you note it? pray you, keep your way: When you are call'd, return. Now the Lord help![404] They vex me past my patience. Pray you, pass on: 130 I will not tarry, no, nor ever more Upon this business my appearance make In any of their courts. [Exeunt Queen, and her Attendants.[405]

King. Go thy ways, Kate: That man i' the world who shall report he has A better wife, let him in nought be trusted,[406] 135 For speaking false in that: thou art, alone, If thy rare qualities, sweet gentleness, Thy meekness saint-like, wife-like government, Obeying in commanding, and thy parts Sovereign and pious else, could speak thee out,[407] 140 The queen of earthly queens. She's noble born, And like her true nobility she has Carried herself towards me.

Wol. Most gracious sir, In humblest manner I require your highness, That it shall please you to declare in hearing 145 Of all these ears--for where I am robb'd and bound, There must I be unloosed, although not there[408] At once and fully satisfied--whether ever I[409] Did broach this business to your highness, or Laid any scruple in your way which might 150 Induce you to the question on't? or ever Have to you, but with thanks to God for such A royal lady, spake one the least word that might[410] Be to the prejudice of her present state[411] Or touch of her good person?

King. My lord cardinal, 155 I do excuse you; yea, upon mine honour, I free you from't. You are not to be taught That you have many enemies that know not Why they are so, but, like to village-curs,[412] Bark when their fellows do: by some of these 160 The queen is put in anger. You're excused:[413] But will you be more justified? you ever Have wish'd the sleeping of this business, never desired[414] It to be stirr'd, but oft have hinder'd, oft,[414] The passages made toward it: on my honour,[415] 165 I speak my good lord cardinal to this point,[416] And thus far clear him. Now, what moved me to't,[417] I will be bold with time and your attention: Then mark the inducement. Thus it came; give heed to't: My conscience first received a tenderness, 170 Scruple, and prick, on certain speeches utter'd By the Bishop of Bayonne, then French ambassador;[418] Who had been hither sent on the debating A marriage 'twixt the Duke of Orleans and[419] Our daughter Mary: i' the progress of this business, 175 Ere a determinate resolution, he, I mean the bishop, did require a respite,[420] Wherein he might the king his lord advertise Whether our daughter were legitimate, Respecting this our marriage with the dowager, 180 Sometimes our brother's wife. This respite shook[421] The bosom of my conscience, enter'd me,[422] Yea, with a splitting power, and made to tremble[423] The region of my breast; which forced such way That many mazed considerings did throng 185 And press'd in with this caution. First, methought I stood not in the smile of heaven, who had[424] Commanded nature that my lady's womb, If it conceived a male-child by me, should Do no more offices of life to't than 190 The grave does to the dead; for her male issue Or died where they were made, or shortly after This world had air'd them: hence I took a thought, This was a judgement on me, that my kingdom, Well worthy the best heir o' the world, should not 195 Be gladded in't by me: then follows that[425] I weigh'd the danger which my realms stood in[426] By this my issue's fail; and that gave to me Many a groaning throe. Thus hulling in[427] The wild sea of my conscience, I did steer 200 Toward this remedy whereupon we are[428] Now present here together; that's to say, I meant to rectify my conscience, which I then did feel full sick and yet not well, By all the reverend fathers of the land 205 And doctors learn'd. First I began in private With you, my Lord of Lincoln; you remember How under my oppression I did reek,[429] When I first moved you.

Lin. Very well, my liege.

King. I have spoke long: be pleased yourself to say 210 How far you satisfied me.

Lin. So please your highness, The question did at first so stagger me, Bearing a state of mighty moment in't And consequence of dread, that I committed The daring'st counsel which I had to doubt, 215 And did entreat your highness to this course[430] Which you are running here.

King. I then moved you, My Lord of Canterbury, and got your leave To make this present summons: unsolicited[431] I left no reverend person in this court; 220 But by particular consent proceeded Under your hands and seals: therefore, go on; For no dislike i' the world against the person Of the good queen, but the sharp thorny points[432] Of my alleged reasons, drive this forward:[433] 225 Prove but our marriage lawful, by my life And kingly dignity, we are contented To wear our mortal state to come with her, Katharine our queen, before the primest creature That's paragon'd o' the world.[434]

Cam. So please your highness, 230 The queen being absent, 'tis a needful fitness That we adjourn this court till further day:[435] Meanwhile must be an earnest motion Made to the queen, to call back her appeal She intends unto his holiness.

King. [Aside] I may perceive[436][437] 235 These cardinals trifle with me: I abhor[437] This dilatory sloth and tricks of Rome.[437][438] My learn'd and well-beloved servant, Cranmer,[437][439] Prithee, return; with thy approach, I know,[437][440] My comfort comes along.--Break up the court:[437] 240 I say, set on.

[Exeunt in manner as they entered.

FOOTNOTES:

[243] meeting.] Capell. at severall Doores. Ff.

[244] fast?] fast, sir? Capell.

O,] O sir, Pope.

ye] you Capell. you, sir Keightley.

[245] Even] Ev'n Ff.

[246] happen'd.] happened. Rowe (ed. 2). happen'd? Pope.

[247] Yes ... upon 't.] One line in Pope. Two in Ff.

[248] I am] I'm Pope.

[249] not] nor F₂.

[250] the] om. Pope.

[251] have] F₄. him F₁ F₂ F₃.

[252] prophecies?] Capell. prophecies. Ff.

[253] sweat] swet Dyce.

[254] the end] at the end Long MS.

[255] attainder] attendure F₁ F₂. attaindure F₃ F₄.

[256] deep envious] deep-envious Dyce, ed. 2 (S. Walker conj.)

[257] instantly ... employment] instantly ... employment for F₄. will find employment for Hanmer.

[258] courtesy--] courtesy;-- Steevens. courtesie. Ff.

[259] Enter ...] Ff (after courtesie, line 53). Transposed by Capell.

Sir Walter Sands,] F₁. Walter Sands, F₂ F₃ F₄. Sir William Sands, Theobald (from Holinshed).

[260] SCENE II. Pope.

[261] far] farre F₁. om. F₂ F₃ F₄.

[262] The law] F₁ F₂. To th' law F₃ F₄.

[263] 'T has] F₃ F₄. T' has F₁ F₂. It has Malone.

[264] 'em] them Malone.

[265] evils] evies Grey conj.

[266] have] hath or has Seymour conj.

[267] More ... me] One line in Rowe (ed. 2). Two in Ff.

dare] could or durst Delius conj.

[268] And ... name] One line in Pope. Two in Ff.

o'] Theobald. a Ff.

[269] to] om. Pope.

[270] 'Gainst ... grace,] Two lines in Pope. Three lines, ending with: ... grave ... grace: in Ff.

[271] that I cannot] I can't] Pope. that I can't Malone.

[272] take ... make] take ... mark Hanmer (Warburton). make ... take Johnson conj. take ... shake Heath conj.

[273] no black ... grave] no! black ... grave Anon. conj. (Gent. Mag.) With no black envy shall I make my grave Martley conj., reading as a separate line.

[274] forsake] forsake me F₄.

Keightley conjectures that a line is lost here.

[275] may ... be] be his rule Seymour conj.

[276] now will] will now Whalley conj.

[277] Bohun] Stafford Peck conj.

[278] life, honour, name] name, honour, life Pope.

[279] we are] F₁ F₂. are we F₃ F₄.

fortunes] fortune Rowe.

[280] most] om. Pope.

[281] for] om. Pope.

[282] where] when Collier (Collier MS.)

[283] now forsake] leave Pope.

[284] long weary] long-weary S. Walker conj.

[285] Farewell: ... sad,] As in Capell. One line in Ff.

[286] that is] om. Pope, reading 134, 135 as one line.

[287] Speak ... me!] Two lines in Ff. One line in Pope, reading I've for I have.

[288] What] Where Reed (1803).

[289] Yes,] om. Hanmer.

[290] to] unto S. Walker conj.

[291] found a] F₁ F₂. a sound F₃ F₄.

[292] I think ... cruel] As two lines, the first ending think, in Ff. one line in Pope, reading you've for you have.

is't] is it Delius.

[293] think] talk Anon conj.

[294] SCENE II.] SCENE III. Pope

An ante-chamber ...] Theobald.

the Lord] Lord. Ff.

a letter.] Rowe. this letter. Ff.

[295] My lord ... sir.] S. Walker would read horse for horses, sent me for sent, o' th' for of the, o' the' for in the, them for 'em, and print as nine verses, ending me for, ... chosen, ... handsome, ... north, ... London, ... commission, ... reason, ... subject, ... sir.

[296] commission] compulsion Long MS.

[297] sir] om. Collier MS.

[298] I fear ... think.] As verse first by Theobald. As prose in Ff.

[299] my lord] my good lord Hanmer, reading He ... good Lord ... graces as two lines.

[300] doing, ... cardinal:] doing; ... cardinal: Rowe. doing: ... cardinall, Ff.

[301] list] lists Theobald.

[302] Pray ... else] As in Pope. Two lines in Ff.

[303] his] this Capell.

[304] Between] 'Tween Pope.

great nephew] nephew Seymour] conj. great-nephew Dyce.

[305] Dangers, doubts,] Doubts, dangers, Pope.

doubts, wringing] doubts wringing Anon. conj.

wringing] wringings Anon. conj.

[306] despairs] despair Rowe (ed. 2).

[307] this] his F₄.

[308] our] om. Pope, reading We ... deliv'rance as one line.

[309] like] in Steevens.

[310] Into] E'en to Lettsom conj.

pitch] pinch Hanmer (Warburton).

batch Theobald conj.

[311] they're] Pope. th' are Ff. they are Capell.

[312] find] F₃ F₄. finde F₁ F₂. find 't Anon. conj.

[313] and ... pensively.] Ff. The Scene draws, and discovers the King sitting and reading pensively. Rowe. They go towards the Door: Door opens; and the King is discover'd, sitting to a Table, pensively, and reading. Capell. Norfolk opens a folding-door. The King is discovered.... Malone.

[314] SCENE IV. Warburton. Pope and Hanmer continue the scene by mistake.

[315] Pray] I pray Capell.

[316] Ye are] You're Capell. You are Steevens.

[317] and ... commission.] with Campeius. Capell.

Campeius,] Campeius the Pope's Legat, Rowe.

[318] a king] F₁. the king F₂ F₃ F₄.

[To Camp.] Theobald.

[319] [To Wols.] Johnson.

[320] [To Nor. and Suf.] Theobald.

[321] The 'Asides' first marked by Capell.

[322] him?] him. Collier. him! Delius.

[323] If ... him.] Arranged as in Pope. As one line in Ff.

[324] one have-at-him.] Dyce and Staunton. one; have at him. F₁. one heave at him. F₂ F₃ F₄. one;--have at him. Knight.

[325] precedent] F₄. president F₁ F₂ F₃.

[326] I ... ones, in ... kingdoms] Theobald. (I ... ones in ... kingdomes) Ff.

[327] Have] Gave Grant White. voices:] voyces. or voices. Ff. voice. Rowe (ed. 2). voices--Knight.

[328] learned] learn'd Anon. conj.

Cardinal] Cardnall F₁.

[329] They have] They've Pope.

[330] commanding, you] F₄. commanding. You F₁. commanding: You F₂ F₃.

[331] So] Too Keightley conj.

that] that, F₄. what Pope.

[332] [Exit Wolsey. Re-enter ...] Capell. Cardinal goes out and re-enters with Gardiner. Johnson. Enter Gardiner. Ff.

[333] The 'Asides' first marked by Capell.

[334] [Walks and whispers.] Ff. Talk apart. Capell.

[335] SCENE III.] SCENE V. Pope.

An ante-chamber ...] Theobald.

[336] having] om. Pope.

[337] See note (III).

[338] a majesty] majesty Dyce, ed. 2 (S. Walker conj.)

[339] O,] Oh F₁ F₂ F₃. O' F₄.

[340] that quarrel] that quarr'ler Hanmer. that quarr'lous Warburton conj. (withdrawn). at quarrel Mason conj. that queller Jackson conj. that squirrel Staunton conj.

quarrel, fortune, do] quarrell. Fortune, do F₁. quarrel fortune to Steevens conj. carle, ill-fortune, do Becket conj. cruel fortune do Collier (Collier MS.) quarrel, by fortune Keightley. fortune's quarrel do Lettsom conj.

[341] Alas] Ah Pope.

[342] a stranger] F₁. stranger F₂ F₃ F₄.

[343] cheveril] Theobald. chiverell F₁ F₂ F₃. chiverel F₄.

[344] good troth] Ff. good troth-- Rowe.

[345] bow'd] bowed Reed (1803).

would] F₁. now would F₂ F₃ F₄.

[346] off] up Johnson conj.

[347] you do] do you Rowe (ed. 2).

[348] You'ld] F₁. you'l F₂. you'll F₃ F₄.

emballing] empalling Malone conj. embalming Whalley conj. empaling Jackson conj.

[349] although there 'long'd] though there belong'd Pope.

[350] and high note's] Theobald. and high notes Ff. and high note is Hanmer. an high note's Johnson. and that high note's Capell.

[351] of you] Capell. of you, to you Ff. to you Pope.

[352] pound] pounds Theobald.

[353] kind] sign or hint Anon. conj.

[354] is] which is Warburton.

nor] for Pope.

[355] empty] om. Pope.

[356] approve] improve Collier MS.

[357] [Aside] Pope.

[358] [Exit....] Exit.... Ff (after you.).

[359] nor] ne'er Anon. conj.

[360] fie, fie, fie] fie, fie Pope.

[361] bitter?... pence] not bitter for thy sense Jackson conj.

forty pence] for two pence Roderick conj. for fi' pence Anon. conj.

[362] a lady] F₁ F₂. no lady F₃ F₄. an old lady Rowe.

[363] By] But Rowe (ed. 2).

[364] moe] F₃ F₄. mo F₁ F₂. more Rowe.

[365] salute] elate Collier MS. See note (IV).

[366] you've] y' have F₁ F₂ F₃. y' ave F₄. you have Capell.

me?] me?-- Pope. me-- Ff.

[367] SCENE IV.] SCENE VI. Pope.

A hall....] Capell. Black-Fryers. Theobald.

sennet] F₁. Sonnet F₂ F₃ F₄. om. Hanmer. See note (V).

habit] habite F₁ F₂. habits F₃ F₄.

Archbishop] Johnson. Bishop Ff.

pillars] F₃ F₄. piller F₁ F₂.

below] between Reed (1803).

stage] hall Dyce.

[368] Say ... court] As two lines in Ff. As prose first by Capell.

[369] Q. Kath.] Queen. Warburton. om. Ff.

[370] nor] and Pope.

[371] I have] I've Pope.

[372] inclined:] inclin'd: Rowe (ed. 2). inclin'd? Ff.

[373] Or which] which Pope.

[374] were] was Seymour conj.

[375] nay, gave] nay, gave not Hanmer. nay, give Jackson conj. nor gave Boswell conj.

[376] discharged?] discharg'd. Theobald.

[377] to wedlock] of wedlock F₄.

or my love and duty,] my love and duty, or Mason conj.

[378] duty, Against] Malone. dutie Against F₁. duty Against F₂ F₃ F₄.

[379] the] F₁. om F₂ F₃ F₄.

[380] sharp'st] sharpest Theobald.

kind] knife Collier MS.

[381] of] F₁. and F₂ F₃ F₄.

[382] wherefore I humbly] humbly I Seymour conj.

[383] I humbly Beseech you, sir, to spare] humbly, Sir I beseech you spare Pope.

[384] That ... court] Printed by Keightley as an imperfect line.

desire] defer F₄.

court] court delay'd Keightley conj., reading As well ... rectify as one line.

[385] Lord ... speak] As in Pope. One line in Ff.

[386] Sir ... that] As in Pope. One line in Ff.

[387] Sir,] Sir.... Keightley.

[388] yet.] Ff. yet-- Rowe.

[389] Or ... believe,] See note (VI).

[390] challenge You] challenge, You Johnson. challenge; You Theobald. challenge. You Ff.

[391] Madam] om. Seymour conj.

[392] I have] I've Pope.

[393] shall,] Rowe. (Shall) Ff.

[394] if it] if 't Pope.

[395] how] now Delius conj.

[396] If he] But if he Pope. If he then Keightley. An if Anon. conj.

[397] to say so] F₁. to say F₂ F₃ F₄. say Pope, ending this and the next line, I am ... t' oppose. say it Collier MS.

[398] You're] Y' are Ff. You are Pope.

[399] arrogancy] arrogancie F₁. arrogance F₂ F₃ F₄. arrogance, with Rowe (ed. 2).

[400] favours] favour S. Walker conj.

[401] slightly] lightly S. Walker conj.

[402] powers] towers Jackson conj.]

your words] your wards Tyrwhitt conj. our lords Mason conj. proud lords Anon. conj.

[403] Gent. Ush.] Grif. Malone.

[404] help] help me S. Walker conj.

[405] [Exeunt....] Ff. Exeunt Queen, Griffith, and her other Attendants. Malone.

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Act II, Scene VII — Pope

[406] nought] naught F₁.

[407] else, could] els, could F₁. could F₂ F₃ F₄. could but Pope.

[408] unloosed] enloos'd Seymour conj.

[409] At once] Atton'd Hanmer (Warburton).

whether ever] if Pope.

[410] spake] spoke Hanmer.

that] om. Capell.

[411] to the] the Rowe (ed. 1). In Rowe (ed. 2), that might ... state is read as one line, as by Pope who omits to the.

[412] to] F₁ the F₂ F₃ F₄.

[413] You're] Y'are Ff. You are Capell.

[414] never desired It ... hinder'd, oft] never desir'd It ... hindred, oft Ff. never Desir'd it ... hindred Pope. never Desir'd it ... hinder'd, oft Capell.

[415] toward] towards Rowe (ed. 2). tow'rds Pope.

[416] speak my ... cardinal] F₁ F₂. speak, my ... cardinal F₃ F₄. speak, my ... card'nal, Rowe (ed. 2).

[417] And ... to't] One line in Pope. Two in Ff.

[418] Bayonne] Capell. Bayon Ff.

[419] A] Rowe (ed. 2). And Ff.

[420] require] requite F₂.

[421] Sometimes] Sometime Rowe (ed. 2).

[422] bosom] bottom Hammer (Thirlby conj., from Holinshed). See note (VII).

[423] splitting] spitting F₁.

[424] who] which Pope.

[425] gladded in 't F₁. glad in 't F₂ F₃ F₄. glad in one Pope.

[426] which] F₁ F₂. that F₃ F₄.

realms] realm Anon. conj.

[427] throe] Pope. throw Ff.

[428] Toward] F₁ F₂. Towards F₃ F₄.

whereupon] whereon Pope.

[429] reek] reel Rowe.

[430] to this] F₁. in this F₂ F₃ F₄.

[431] summons: unsolicited] Theobald. summons unsolicited. Ff.

[432] the good] F₁. our good F₂ F₃ F₄.

[433] drive] Pope. drives Ff.

[434] paragon'd o'the] paragon'd i' th' Pope. paragon o' th' Hanmer.

[435] till] F₁. om. F₂. to a F₃ F₄. to Pope.

[436] [They rise to depart. The King speaks to Cranmer. Johnson.

[437] I may ... along.] Marked as 'Aside' by Capell.

[438] This] The Hanmer.

[439] learn'd] learned Rowe.

well-beloved] well-belov'd Rowe (ed. 2).

[440] return; ... approach,] F₄. return, ... approch: F₁ F₂ F₃.]

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Act III, Scene I — London. The Queen's apartments.

The QUEEN and her Women, as at work.[441]

Q. Kath. Take thy lute, wench: my soul grows sad with troubles;[442] Sing, and disperse 'em, if thou canst: leave working.[443]

SONG.

Orpheus with his lute made trees, And the mountain tops that freeze, Bow themselves when he did sing; 5 To his music plants and flowers Ever sprung, as sun and showers[444] There had made a lasting spring.[445]

Every thing that heard him play, Even the billows of the sea, 10 Hung their heads, and then lay by. In sweet music is such art, Killing care and grief of heart[446] Fall asleep, or hearing die.

Enter a Gentleman.

Q. Kath. How now! 15

Gent. An't please your grace, the two great cardinals[447] Wait in the presence.

Q. Kath. Would they speak with me?

Gent. They will'd me say so, madam.

Q. Kath. Pray their graces To come near. [Exit Gent.] What can be their business[448] With me, a poor weak woman, fall'n from favour? 20 I do not like their coming. Now I think on't,[449] They should be good men, their affairs as righteous:[450] But all hoods make not monks.

Enter the two CARDINALS, WOLSEY and CAMPEIUS.[451]

Wol. Peace to your highness!

Q. Kath. Your graces find me here part of a housewife; I would be all, against the worst may happen.[452] 25 What are your pleasures with me, reverend lords?[453]

Wol. May it please you, noble madam, to withdraw Into your private chamber, we shall give you The full cause of our coming.

Q. Kath. Speak it here; There's nothing I have done yet, o' my conscience, 30 Deserves a corner: would all other women Could speak this with as free a soul as I do! My lords, I care not, so much I am happy Above a number, if my actions Were tried by every tongue, every eye saw 'em, 35 Envy and base opinion set against 'em, I know my life so even. If your business[454] Seek me out, and that way I am wife in,[454][455] Out with it boldly: truth loves open dealing.

Wol. Tanta est erga te mentis integritas, regina serenissima,-- 40

Q. Kath. O, good my lord, no Latin;[456] I am not such a truant since my coming, As not to know the language I have lived in: A strange tongue makes my cause more strange, suspicious;[457] 45 Pray speak in English: here are some will thank you, If you speak truth, for their poor mistress' sake; Believe me, she has had much wrong: lord cardinal, The willing'st sin I ever yet committed May be absolved in English.

Wol. Noble lady, 50 I am sorry my integrity should breed,[458] And service to his majesty and you,[459] So deep suspicion, where all faith was meant.[459] We come not by the way of accusation, To taint that honour every good tongue blesses, 55 Nor to betray you any way to sorrow-- You have too much, good lady--but to know How you stand minded in the weighty difference Between the king and you, and to deliver, Like free and honest men, our just opinions 60 And comforts to your cause.

Cam. Most honour'd madam,[460] My Lord of York, out of his noble nature, Zeal and obedience he still bore your grace, Forgetting, like a good man, your late censure Both of his truth and him, which was too far, 65 Offers, as I do, in a sign of peace, His service and his counsel.

Q. Kath. [Aside] To betray me.--[461] My lords, I thank you both for your good wills; Ye speak like honest men; pray God, ye prove so! But how to make ye suddenly an answer, 70 In such a point of weight, so near mine honour, More near my life, I fear, with my weak wit, And to such men of gravity and learning, In truth, I know not. I was set at work Among my maids, full little, God knows, looking 75 Either for such men or such business. For her sake that I have been--for I feel The last fit of my greatness--good your graces, Let me have time and counsel for my cause:[462] Alas, I am a woman, friendless, hopeless! 80

Wol. Madam, you wrong the king's love with these fears:[463] Your hopes and friends are infinite.

Q. Kath. In England[464] But little for my profit: can you think, lords,[465] That any Englishman dare give me counsel? Or be a known friend, 'gainst his highness' pleasure--[466] 85 Though he be grown so desperate to be honest-- And live a subject? Nay, forsooth, my friends,[467] They that must weigh out my afflictions,[468] They that my trust must grow to, live not here: They are, as all my other comforts, far hence[469] 90 In mine own country, lords.

Cam. I would your grace Would leave your griefs, and take my counsel.

Q. Kath. How, sir?

Cam. Put your main cause into the king's protection; He's loving and most gracious: 'twill be much Both for your honour better and your cause;[470] 95 For if the trial of the law o'ertake ye, You'll part away disgraced.

Wol. He tells you rightly.

Q. Kath. Ye tell me what ye wish for both, my ruin: Is this your Christian counsel? out upon ye! Heaven is above all yet; there sits a judge 100 That no king can corrupt.

Cam. Your rage mistakes us.[471]

Q. Kath. The more shame for ye: holy men I thought ye,[472] Upon my soul, two reverend cardinal virtues; But cardinal sins and hollow hearts I fear ye:[472][473] Mend 'em, for shame, my lords. Is this your comfort?[474] 105 The cordial that ye bring a wretched lady, A woman lost among ye, laugh'd at, scorn'd? I will not wish ye half my miseries; I have more charity: but say, I warn'd ye; Take heed, for heaven's sake, take heed, lest at once[475] 110 The burthen of my sorrows fall upon ye.

Wol. Madam, this is a mere distraction;[476] You turn the good we offer into envy.

Q. Kath. Ye turn me into nothing: woe upon ye, And all such false professors! would you have me-- 115 If you have any justice, any pity, If ye be any thing but churchmen's habits--[477] Put my sick cause into his hands that hates me? Alas, has banish'd me his bed already,[478] His love, too long ago! I am old, my lords,[479] 120 And all the fellowship I hold now with him Is only my obedience. What can happen[480] To me above this wretchedness? all your studies Make me a curse like this.

Cam. Your fears are worse.[481]

Q. Kath. Have I lived thus long--let me speak myself, 125 Since virtue finds no friends--a wife, a true one? A woman, I dare say without vain-glory, Never yet branded with suspicion? Have I with all my full affections Still met the king? loved him next heaven? obey'd him? 130 Been, out of fondness, superstitious to him? Almost forgot my prayers to content him? And am I thus rewarded? 'tis not well, lords. Bring me a constant woman to her husband, One that ne'er dream'd a joy beyond his pleasure, 135 And to that woman, when she has done most, Yet will I add an honour, a great patience.

Wol. Madam, you wander from the good we aim at.[476][482]

Q. Kath. My lord, I dare not make myself so guilty,[483] To give up willingly that noble title 140 Your master wed me to: nothing but death Shall e'er divorce my dignities.

Wol. Pray, hear me.[484]

Q. Kath. Would I had never trod this English earth, Or felt the flatteries that grow upon it! Ye have angels' faces, but heaven knows your hearts.[485] 145 What will become of me now, wretched lady![486] I am the most unhappy woman living. Alas, poor wenches, where are now your fortunes![487] Shipwreck'd upon a kingdom, where no pity, No friends, no hope; no kindred weep for me; 150 Almost no grave allow'd me: like the lily, That once was mistress of the field and flourish'd, I'll hang my head and perish.

Wol. If your grace[476] Could but be brought to know our ends are honest, You'ld feel more comfort: why should we, good lady,[488] 155 Upon what cause, wrong you? alas, our places, The way of our profession is against it: We are to cure such sorrows, not to sow 'em.[489] For goodness' sake, consider what you do; How you may hurt yourself, ay, utterly[490] 160 Grow from the king's acquaintance, by this carriage. The hearts of princes kiss obedience, So much they love it; but to stubborn spirits They swell, and grow as terrible as storms.[491] I know you have a gentle, noble temper,[492] 165 A soul as even as a calm: pray think us Those we profess, peace-makers, friends and servants.

Cam. Madam, you'll find it so. You wrong your virtues[493] With these weak women's fears: a noble spirit, As yours was put into you, ever casts 170 Such doubts, as false coin, from it. The king loves you;[494] Beware you lose it not: for us, if you please[495] To trust us in your business, we are ready To use our utmost studies in your service.

Q. Kath. Do what ye will, my lords: and pray forgive me,[496][497] 175 If I have used myself unmannerly;[497] You know I am a woman, lacking wit To make a seemly answer to such persons. Pray do my service to his majesty: He has my heart yet, and shall have my prayers 180 While I shall have my life. Come, reverend fathers. Bestow your counsels on me: she now begs That little thought, when she set footing here, She should have bought her dignities so dear. [Exeunt.

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