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  • Title: Henry The Eighth (Modern)
  • Editor: Diane Jakacki

  • Copyright Diane Jakacki. This text may be freely used for educational, non-profit purposes; for all other uses contact the Editor.
    Author: William Shakespeare
    Editor: Diane Jakacki
    Not Peer Reviewed

    Henry The Eighth (Modern)

    The Famous History of the Life of King Henry the Eight.
    [Enter Prologue]
    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.
    5Such noble scenes as draw the eye to flow,
    We now present. Those that can pity here
    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,
    10May here find truth, too. Those that come to see
    Only a show or two, and so agree
    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
    15That come to hear a merry, bawdy play,
    A noise of targets, or to see a fellow
    In a long motley coat guarded with yellow,
    Will be deceived. For, gentle hearers, know
    To rank our chosen truth with such a show
    20As fool and fight is, beside forfeiting
    Our own brains and the opinion that we bring
    To make that only true we now intend,
    Will leave us never an understanding friend.
    Therefore, for goodness' sake, and as you are known
    25The first and happiest hearers of the town,
    Be sad, as we would make ye. Think ye see
    The very persons of our noble story
    As they were living; think you see them great,
    And followed with the general throng and sweat
    30Of thousand friends; then, in a moment, see
    How soon this mightiness meets misery;
    And if you can be merry then, I'll say
    A man may weep upon his wedding day.
    [Exit]
    35Enter the Duke of Norfolk at one door. At the other, the Duke of Buckingham, and the Lord Aburgavenny.
    Buckingham
    Good morrow, and well met. How have ye done
    40Since last we saw in France?
    Norfolk
    I thank your grace,
    Healthful, and ever since a fresh admirer
    Of what I saw there.
    Buckingham
    An untimely ague
    45Stayed me a prisoner in my chamber when
    Those suns of glory, those two lights of men,
    Met in the vale of Andres.
    Norfolk
    'Twixt Guînes and Ardes
    I was then present, saw them salute on horseback,
    50Beheld them when they lighted, how they clung
    In their Embracement, as they grew together,
    Which had they, what four throned ones could have weighed
    Such a compounded one?
    55Buckingham
    All the whole time
    I was my chamber's prisoner.
    Norfolk
    Then you lost
    The view of earthly glory. Men might say
    Till this time pomp was single, but now married
    60To one above itself. Each following day
    Became the next day's master, till the last
    Made former wonders its. Today the French,
    All clinquant, all in gold, like heathen gods,
    Shone down the English; and tomorrow they
    65Made Britain India: every man that stood
    Showed like a mine. Their dwarfish pages were
    As cherubim, all gilt. The madams too,
    Not used to toil, did almost sweat to bear
    The pride upon them, that their very labor
    70Was to them as a painting. Now this masque
    Was cried incomparable, and th’ensuing night
    Made it a fool and beggar. The two kings,
    Equal in luster, were now best, now worst,
    As presence did present them: him in eye,
    75Still 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 —-
    For so they phrase 'em —- by their heralds challenged
    The noble spirits to arms, they did perform
    80Beyond thought's compass, that former fabulous story
    Being now seen possible enough, got credit
    That Bevis was believed.
    Buckingham
    Oh, you go far.
    Norfolk
    As I belong to worship, and affect
    85In honor honesty, the tract of everything
    Would by a good discourser lose some life,
    Which action's self was tongue to.
    All was royal;
    To the disposing of it nought rebelled,
    90Order gave each thing view; the office did
    Distinctly his full function.
    Buckingham
    Who did guide --
    I mean, who set the body and the limbs
    Of this great sport together, as you guess?
    95Norfolk
    One, certes, that promises no element
    In such a business.
    Buckingham
    I pray you who, my lord?
    Norfolk
    All this was ordered by the good discretion
    Of the right reverend Cardinal of York.
    100Buckingham
    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
    Take up the rays o'th'beneficial sun
    105And keep it from the earth.
    Norfolk
    Surely, sir,
    There's in him stuff that puts him to these ends;
    For being not propped by ancestry, whose grace
    Chalks successors their way, nor called upon
    110For high feats done to th'crown, neither allied
    To eminent assistants, but spider-like,
    Out of his self-drawing web, ‘a gives us note
    The force of his own merit makes his way
    A gift that heaven gives for him, which buys
    115A place next to the king.
    Abergavenny
    I cannot tell
    What heaven hath given him -- let some grayer eye
    Pierce into that -- but I can see his pride
    Peep through each part of him; whence has he that,
    120If not from hell? The devil is a niggard,
    Or has given all before, and he begins
    A new hell in himself.
    Buckingham
    Why the devil,
    Upon this French going-out, took he upon him,
    125Without the privity o'th'king, t'appoint
    Who should attend on him? He makes up the file
    Of all the gentry; for the most part such
    To whom as great a charge, as little honor
    He meant to lay upon; and his own letter,
    130The honorable board of council, out
    Must fetch him in, he papers.
    Abergavenny
    I do know
    Kinsmen of mine, three at the least, that have
    By this so sickened their estates that never
    135They shall abound as formerly.
    Buckingham
    Oh, many
    Have broke their backs with laying manors on 'em
    For this great journey. What did this vanity
    But minister communication of
    140A most poor issue?
    Norfolk
    Grievingly, I think
    The peace between the French and us not values
    The cost that did conclude it.
    Buckingham
    Every man,
    145After the hideous storm that followed, was
    A thing inspired, and not consulting, broke
    Into a general prophesy: that this tempest,
    Dashing the garment of this peace, aboded
    The sudden breach on't.
    150Norfolk
    Which is budded out,
    For France hath flawed the league, and hath attached
    Our merchants' goods at Bordeaux.
    Abergavenny
    Is it therefore
    Th'ambassador is silenced?
    155Norfolk
    Marry, is't.
    Abergavenny
    A proper title of a peace, and purchased
    At a superfluous rate.
    Buckingham
    Why, all this business
    Our reverend cardinal carried
    160Norfolk
    Like it your grace,
    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
    Honor and plenteous safety -- that you read
    165The cardinal's malice and his potency
    Together; to consider further that
    What his high hatred would effect wants not
    A minister in his power. You know his nature,
    That he's revengeful, and I know his sword
    170Hath a sharp edge: it's long and't may be said
    It reaches far, and where 'twill not extend,
    Thither he darts it. Bosom up my counsel,
    You'l find it wholesome. Lo, where comes that rock
    That I advise your shunning.
    175Enter 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 Buckham, and Buckingham on him, both full of disdain.
    180Wolsey
    The Duke of Buckingham's surveyor, ha?
    Where's his examination?
    Secretary
    Here so please you.
    Wolsey
    Is he in person ready?
    Secretary
    Ay, please your grace.
    185Wolsey
    Well, we shall then know more, and Buckingham
    Shall lessen this big look.
    Exeunt Cardinal and his train.
    Buckingham
    This butcher's cur is venom-mouthed, and I
    Have not the power to muzzle him: therefore best
    190Not wake him in his slumber. A beggar's book
    Outworths a noble's blood.
    Norfolk
    What, are you chafed?
    Ask God for temperance: that's th'appliance oney
    Which your disease requires.
    195Buckingham
    I read in's looks
    Matter against me, and his eye reviled
    Me as his abject obiect at this instant
    He bores me with some trick; he's gone to'th'king.
    I'll follow, and out-stare him.
    200Norfolk
    Stay, my lord,
    And let your reason with your choler question
    What 'tis you go about. To climb steep hills
    Requires slow pace at first. Anger is like
    A full hot horse, who being allowed his way,
    205Self-mettle tires him. Not a man in England
    Can advise me like you. Be to yourself
    As you would to your friend.
    Buckingham
    I'll to the king,
    And from a mouth of honor quite cry down
    210This Ipswich fellow's insolence, or proclaim
    There's difference in no persons.
    Norfolk
    Be advised:
    Heat not a furnace for your foe so hot
    That it do singe yourself. We may outrun
    215By violent swiftness that which we run at,
    And lose by ouer-running. Know you not
    The fire that mounts the liquor till't run o'er,
    In seeming to augment it, wastes it? Be advised:
    I say again there is no English soul
    220More stronger to direct you than yourself,
    If with the sap of reason you would quench
    Or but allay the fire of passion.
    Buckingham
    Sir,
    I am thankful to you and I'll go along
    225By your prescription: but this top-proud fellow,
    Whom from the flow of gall I name not, but
    From sincere motions, by intelligence
    And proofs as clear as founts in July when
    We see each grain of gravel, I do know
    230To be corrupt and treasonous.
    Norfolk
    Say not treasonous.
    Buckingham
    To th'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
    235As he is subtle, and as prone to mischief
    As able to perform't) his mind and place
    Infecting one another, yea reciprocally,
    Only to show his pomp as well in France
    As here at home, suggests the king our master
    240To this last costly treaty, th'interview,
    That swallowed so much treasure, and like a glass
    Did break ith'wrenching.
    Norfolk
    Faith, and so it did.
    Buckingham
    Pray give me favor, sir. This cunning cardinal
    245The articles o'th'combination drew
    As himself pleased, and they were ratified
    As he cried 'Thus let be', to as much end
    As give a crutch to th'dead. But our count-cardinal
    Has done this, and 'tis well; for worthy Wolsey
    250(Who cannot err) he did it. Now this follows
    (Which, as I take it, is a kind of puppy
    To th'old dam treason) Charles the emperor,
    Under pretence to see the queen his aunt,
    (For 'twas indeed his color, but he came
    255To whisper Wolsey) here makes visitation.
    His fears were that the interview betwixt
    England and France might through their amity
    Breed him some prejudice; for from this league
    Peeped harms that menaced him. Privily
    260Deals with our cardinal, and as I trow,
    (Which I do well, for I am sure the emperor
    Paid ere he promised) whereby his suit was granted
    Ere it was asked. But when the way was made
    And paved with gold, the emperor thus desired
    265That he would please to alter the king's course
    And break the aforesaid peace. Let the king know
    (As soon he shall by me) that thus the cardinal
    Does buy and sell his honor as he pleases,
    And for his own advantage.
    270Norfolk
    I am sorry
    To hear this of him, and could wish he were
    Somthing mistaken in't.
    Buckingham
    No, not a syllable.
    I do pronounce him in that very shape
    275He shall appear in proof.
    Brandon
    Your office, sergeant: execute it.
    Sergeant
    Sir,
    280My lord the Duke of Buckingham, and Earl
    Of Hertford, Stafford and Northampton, I
    Arrest thee of high treason, in the name
    Of our most sovereign king.
    Buckingham
    Lo you, my lord,
    285The net has fallen upon me. I shall perish
    Under device and practise.
    Brandon
    I am sorry
    To see you ta'en from liberty to look on
    The busines present. 'Tis his highness' pleasure
    290You shall to th'Tower.
    Buckingham
    It will help me nothing
    To plead mine innocence, for that dye is on me
    Which makes my whit'st part, black. The will of heav'n
    Be done in this and all things: I obey.
    295O my Lord Abergavenny, fare you well.
    Brandon
    Nay, he must bear you company. The king
    Is pleased you shall to th'Tower, till you know
    How he determines further.
    Abergavenny
    As the duke said,
    300The will of heaven be done, and the king's pleasure
    By me obeyed.
    Brandon
    Here is a warrant from
    The king, t'attach Lord Montague and the Bodies
    Of the duke's confessor, John de la Car,
    305One Gilbert Peck, his chancellor.
    Buckingham
    So, so;
    These are the limbs o'th'plot. No more, I hope.
    Brandon
    A Monk o'th'Chartreux.
    Buckingham
    O, Nicholas Hopkins?
    310Brandon
    He.
    Buckingham
    My surveyor is false. The o'er-great cardinal
    Hath showed him gold. My life is spanned already;
    I am the shadow of poor Buckingham,
    Whose figure even this instant cloud puts on,
    315By dark'ning my clear sun. My lords farewell.
    Cornets. Enter King Henry, leaning on the Cardinal's shoulder, the nobles, and Sir Thomas Louell. [Secretary enters with Cardinal] The Cardinal places himself under the King's feet on 320his right side.
    King Henry
    My life itself, and the best heart of it,
    Thanks you for this great care. I stood i'th'level
    Of a full-charged confederacy, and give thanks
    To you that choked it. Let be called before us
    325That gentleman of Buckingham's: in person
    I'll hear him his confessions justify,
    And point by point the treasons of his master
    He shall again relate.
    A noise within crying "Room for the Queen." [The Queen is] ushered by the 330Duke of Norfolk. Enter the Queen, Norfolk and Suffolk. She kneels. King riseth from his state, takes her up, kisses and placeth her by him.
    Katharine
    Nay, we must longer kneel; I am a suitor.
    335King Henry
    Arise and take place by us. Half your suit
    Never name to us; you have half our power.
    The other moiety ere you ask is given.
    Repeat your will and take it.
    Katharine
    Thank your majesty.
    340That you would love yourself, and in that love
    Not unconsidered leave your honor nor
    The dignity of your office, is the point
    Of my petition.
    King Henry
    Lady mine, proceed.
    345Katharine
    I am solicited not by a few,
    And those of true condition, that your subjects
    Are in great grievance. There have been commissions
    Sent down among 'em which hath flawed the heart
    Of all their loyalties; wherein although,
    350[to Cardinal] My good Lord Cardinall, they vent reproaches
    Most bitterly on you, as putter on
    Of these exactions. Yet the king our master,
    Whose honor heaven shield from soil, even he escapes not
    Language unmannerly. Yea, such which breaks
    355The sides of loyalty and almost appears
    In loud rebellion.
    Norfolk
    Not almost appears,
    It doth appear; for, upon these taxations,
    The clothiers all, not able to maintain
    360The many to them longing, have put off
    The spinsters, carders, fullers, weavers who,
    Unfit for other life, compelled by hunger
    And lack of other means, in desperate manner,
    Daring th'event to th'teeth, are all in uproar,
    365And danger serves among them.
    King Henry
    Taxation?
    Wherein, and what taxation? My lord cardinal,
    You that are blamed for it alike with us,
    Know you of this taxation?
    370Wolsey
    Please you, sir,
    I know but of a single part in aught
    Pertains to th'state, and front but in that file
    Where others tell steps with me.
    Katharine
    No, my lord,
    375You know no more then others, but you frame
    Things that are known alike, which are not wholesome
    To those which would not know them, and yet must
    Perforce be their acquaintance. These exactions
    (Whereof my sovereign would have note), they are
    380Most pestilent to th'hearing, and to bear 'em
    The back is sacrifice to th' load. They say
    They are devised by you, ere else you suffer
    Too hard an exclamation.
    King Henry
    Still, exaction!
    385The nature of it? In what kind let's know:
    Is this exaction?
    Katharine
    I am much too venturous
    In tempting of your patience, but am emboldened
    Under your promised pardon. The subjects' grief
    390Comes through commissions, which compels from each
    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,
    Tongues spit their duties out and cold hearts freeze
    395Allegiance in them; their curses now
    Live where their prayers did, and it's come to pass
    This tractable obedience is a slave
    To each incensed will. I would your highness
    Would give it quick consideration, for
    400There is no primer baseness.
    King Henry
    By my life,
    This is against our pleasure!
    Wolsey
    And for me,
    I have no further gone in this than by
    405A single voice, and that not past me, but
    By learned approbation of the judges. If I am
    Traduced by ignorant tongues, which neither know
    My faculties nor person, yet will be
    The chronicles of my doing, let me say
    410'Tis but the fate of place and the rough brake
    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
    415That is new-trimmed, but benefit no further
    Than vainly longing. What we oft do best,
    By sick interpreters (once weak ones) is
    Not ours or not allowed. What worst, as oft,
    Hitting a grosser quality, is cried up
    420For our best act. If we shall stand still
    In fear our motion will be mocked or carped at;
    We should take root here where we sit,
    Or sit state-statues only.
    King Henry
    Things done well
    425And with a care exempt themselves from fear.
    Things done without example in their issue
    Are to be feared. Have you a precedent
    Of this commission? I believe not any.
    We must not rend our subjects from our laws
    430And stick them in our will. Sixth part of each?
    A trembling contribution; why, we take
    From every tree lop, bark, and part o'th'timber,
    And though we leave it with a root thus hacked
    The air will drink the sap. To every county
    435Where this is questioned send our letters with
    Free pardon to each man that has denied
    The force of this commission. Pray, look to't;
    I put it to your care.
    Wolsey
    [to Secretary] A word with you.
    440Let there be letters writ to every shire
    Of the King's grace and pardon. The grieved commons
    Hardly conceive of me. Let it be noised
    That through our intercession this revokement
    And pardon comes. I shall anon advise you
    445Further in the proceeding.
    Enter Surveyor.
    Katharine
    I am sorry that the Duke of Buckingham
    Is run in your displeasure.
    King Henry
    It grieves many.
    450The gentleman is learned and a most rare speaker,
    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
    When these so noble benefits shall prove
    455Not 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
    Who was enrolled amongst wonders; and when we,
    Almost with ravished listening, could not find
    460His 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 besmeared in hell. Sit by us: you shall hear
    (This was his gentleman in trust) of him
    465Things to strike honor sad. Bid him recount
    The fore-recited practices, whereof
    We cannot feel too little, hear too much.
    Wolsey
    Stand forth and with bold spirit relate what you,
    Most like a careful subject, have collected
    470Out of the Duke of Buckingham.
    King Henry
    Speak freely.
    Surveyor
    First, it was usual with him, every day
    It would infect his speech, that if the King
    Should without issue die he'll carry it so
    475To make the sceptre his. These very words
    I've heard him utter to his son-in-law,
    Lord Abergavenny, to whom by oath he menaced
    Revenge upon the cardinal.
    Wolsey
    Please, your highness, note
    480This dangerous conception in this point
    Not friended by his wish to your high person.
    His will is most malignant and it stretches
    Beyond you to your friends.
    Katharine
    My learn'd lord cardinal,
    485Deliver all with charity.
    King Henry
    Speak on.
    How grounded he his title to the crown
    Upon our fail? To this point hast thou heard him
    At any time speak aught?
    490Surveyor
    He was brought to this
    By a vain prophecy of Nicholas Hopkins.
    King Henry
    What was that Hopkins?
    Surrey
    Sir, a Chartreux friar,
    His confessor, who fed him every minute
    495With words of sovereignty.
    King Henry
    How know'st thou this?
    Surveyor
    Not long before your Highness sped to France,
    The duke being at the Rose, within the parish
    Saint Laurence Poultney, did of me demand
    500What was the speech among the Londoners
    Concerning the French journey. I replied
    Men fear the French would prove perfidious
    To the king's danger. Presently, the duke
    Said 'twas the fear indeed, and that he doubted
    505'Twould prove the verity of certain words
    Spoke by a holy monk that oft, says he,
    "Hath sent to me, wishing me to permit
    John Delacourt, my chaplain, a choice hour
    To hear from him a matter of some moment".
    510Whom after, under the confession's seal,
    He solemnly had sworn that what he spoke
    My chaplain to no creature living but
    To me should utter with demure confidence
    This pausingly ensued: "Neither the King, nor his heirs
    515(Tell you the Duke) shall prosper, bid him strive
    To the love of the commonalty, the Duke
    Shall govern England".
    Katharine
    If I know you well,
    You were the Duke's surveyor and lost your office
    520On the complaint of the tenants. Take good heed
    You charge not in your spleen a noble person
    And spoil your nobler soul. I say take heed;
    Yes, heartily beseech you.
    King Henry
    Let him on. Go forward.
    525Surveyor
    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 this to ruminate on this so far, until
    It forged him some design, which being believed
    530It was much like to do. He answered, "Tush,
    It can doe me no damage," adding further,
    That had the King in his last sickness failed,
    The cardinal's and Sir Thomas Lovell's heads
    Should have gone off.
    535King Henry
    Ha? What, so rank? Ah, ha!
    There's mischief in this man. Canst thou say further?
    Surveyor
    I can, my liege.
    King Henry
    Proceed.
    Surveyor
    Being at Greenwich,
    540After your highness had reproved the duke
    About Sir William Blumer --
    King Henry
    I remember of such a time; being my sworn servant,
    The duke retained him his. But on, what hence?
    Surveyor
    "If", quoth he, "I for this had been committed,
    545As to the Tower I thought I would have played
    The part my father meant to act upon
    The usurper Richard; who being at Salisbury,
    Made suit to come in his presence; which, if granted,
    (As he made semblance of his duty) would
    550Have put his knife into him."
    King Henry
    A giant traitor.
    Wolsey
    Now Madame, may his highness live in freedom
    And this man out of prison.
    Katharine
    God mend all.
    555King Henry
    There's something more would out of thee; what sayest?
    Surveyor
    After the duke his father with the knife
    He stretched him, and with one hand on his dagger
    Another spread on's breast, mounting his eyes
    He did discharge a horrible oath whose tenor
    560Was, were he evil used, he would outgo
    His father by as much as a performance
    Does an irresolute purpose.
    King Henry
    There's his period:
    To sheath his knife in us. He is attached.
    565Call him to present trial. If he may
    Find mercy in the law 'tis his; if none,
    Let him not seek it of us. By day and night
    He's traitor to the height.
    Exeunt.
    570Enter Lord Chamberlain and Lord Sandys.
    Chamberlain
    Is't possible the spells of France should juggle
    Men into such strange mysteries?
    Sandys
    New customs,
    Though they be never so ridiculous,
    575(Nay let 'em be unmanly) yet are followed.
    Chamberlain
    As far as I see, all the good our English
    Have got by the late voyage is but merely
    A fit or two o'th'face, (but they are shrewd ones)
    For when they hold 'em you would swear directly
    580Their very noses had been counselors
    To Pepin or Clotharius, they keep state so.
    Sandys
    They have all new legs
    And lame ones; one would take it
    That never see 'em pace before, the spavine
    585Or stringhalt reigned among 'em.
    Chamberlain
    'Death my Lord,
    Their clothes are after such a pagan cut to't
    That sure th'have worn out Christendom. [to Lovell] How now?
    What news, Sir Thomas Lovell?
    590 Enter Sir Thomas Lovell.
    Lovell
    Faith my Lord,
    I hear of none but the new proclamation,
    That's clapped upon the court gate.
    Chamberlain
    What is't for?
    595Lovell
    The reformation of our travelled gallants,
    That fill the court with quarrels, talk, and tailors.
    Chamberlain
    I'm glad 'tis there;
    Now I would pray our monsieurs
    To think an English courtier may be wise
    600And never see the Louvre.
    Lovell
    They must either
    (For so run the conditions) leave those remnants
    Of fool and feather that they got in France,
    With all their honorable points of ignorance
    605Pertaining thereunto, as fights and fireworks,
    Abusing better men then they can be
    Out of a foreign wisdom, renouncing clean
    The faith they have in tennis and tall stockings,
    Short blistered breeches, and those types of travel,
    610And understand again like honest men,
    Or pack to their old playfellows. There, I take it,
    They may cum privilego, oui away
    The lag end of their lewdness and be laughed at.
    Sandys
    'Tis time to give 'em physic, their diseases
    615Are grown so catching.
    Chamberlain
    What a loss our ladies
    Will have of these trim vanities!
    Lovell
    Ay, marry,
    There will be woe indeed lords, the sly whoresons
    620Have got a speeding trick to lay down ladies.
    A French song and a fiddle has no fellow.
    Sandys
    The devil fiddle 'em!
    I am glad they are going
    For sure there's no converting of 'em. Now
    625An honest country lord as I am, beaten
    A long time out of play, may bring his plain song
    And have an hour of hearing, and by'r Lady
    Held current music, too.
    Chamberlain
    Well said, Lord Sandys.
    630Your colt's tooth is not cast yet?
    Sandys
    No my Lord,
    Nor shall not while I have a stump.
    Chamberlain
    Sir Thomas,
    Whither were you a'going?
    635Lovell
    To the cardinal's.
    Your lordship is a guest, too.
    Chamberlain
    O, 'tis true!
    This night he makes a supper, and a great one,
    To many lords and ladies. There will be
    640The beauty of this kingdom, I'll assure you.
    Lovell
    That churchman
    Bears a bounteous mind indeed,
    A hand as fruitful as the land that feeds us:
    His dews fall everywhere.
    645Chamberlain
    No doubt he's noble:
    He had a black mouth that said other of him.
    Sandys
    He may, my Lord;
    'has wherewithal. In him
    Sparing would show a worse sin than ill doctrine.
    650Men of his way should be most liberal:
    They are set here for examples.
    Chamberlain
    True, they are so,
    But few now give so great ones.
    My barge stays.
    655Your lordship shall along. Come, good Sir Thomas,
    We shall be late else, which I would not be,
    For I was spoke to, with Sir Henry Guilford
    This night to be comptrollers.
    Sandys
    I am your lordship's.
    Exeunt.
    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 an other door enter 665Sir Henry Guilford.
    Guildford
    Ladies,
    A general welcome from his grace
    Salutes ye all. This night he dedicates
    To fair content and you. None here he hopes,
    670In all this noble bevy, has brought with her
    One care abroad; he would have all as merry
    As first good company, good wine, good welcome
    Can make good people.
    Enter Lord Chamberlain Lord Sandys, and Lovell.
    675O my lord, y'are tardy.
    The very thought of this fair company
    Clapped wings to me.
    Chamberlain
    You are young, Sir Harry Guilford.
    Sandys
    Sir Thomas Lovell, had the cardinal
    680But 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!
    Lovell
    O, that your lordship were but now confessor
    685To one or two of these.
    Sandys
    I would I were:
    They should find easy penance.
    Lovell
    Faith, how easy?
    Sandys
    As easy as a down bed would afford it.
    690Chamberlain
    Sweet ladies, will it please you sit? Sir Harry,
    Place you that side; I'll take the charge of this.
    His grace is ent'ring. Nay, you must not freeze;
    Two women placed together makes cold weather.
    My Lord Sandys, you are one will keep 'em waking;
    695Pray, sit between these ladies.
    Sandys
    By my faith,
    And thank your lordship! By your leave, sweet ladies,
    If I chance to talk a little wild, forgive me:
    I had it from my father.
    Was he mad, sir?
    Sandys
    O, very mad, exceeding mad in love, too.
    But he would bite none, iust as I do now,
    He would kiss you twenty with a breath.
    Chamberlain
    Well said, my lord.
    705So now y'are fairly seated, gentlemen,
    The penance lies on you if these fair ladies
    Pass away frowning.
    Sandys
    For my little cure
    Let me alone.
    710Hautboys. Enter Cardinal Wolsey, and takes his state.
    Wolsey
    Welcome, my fair guests! That noble lady
    Or gentleman that is not freely merry
    Is not my friend. This, to confirm my welcome
    And to you all good health.
    715Sandys
    Your grace is noble.
    Let me have such a bowl may hold my thanks
    And save me so much talking.
    Wolsey
    My Lord Sandys,
    I am beholden to you. Cheer your neighbours!
    720Ladies you are not merry! Gentlemen,
    Whose fault is this?
    Sandys
    The red wine first must rise
    In their fair cheeks, my lord. Then we shall have 'em
    Talk us to silence.
    You are a merry gamester,
    My lord Sandys.
    Sandys
    Yes, if I make my play.
    Here's to your ladyship - and pledge it, madam,
    For 'tis to such a thing.
    You cannot show me.
    Drum and trumpet; chambers discharged.
    Sandys
    I told your grace they would talk anon.
    Wolsey
    What's that?
    Chamberlain
    Look out there, some of ye!
    735Wolsey
    What warlike voice,
    And to what end is this? Nay, ladies, fear not;
    By all the laws of war y'are privileged.
    Enter a Servant.
    Chamberlain
    How now, what is't?
    740Servant
    A noble troupe of strangers,
    For so they seem. Th'have left their barge and landed,
    And hither make as great ambassadors
    From foreign princes.
    Wolsey
    Good lord Chamberlain,
    745Go, give 'em welcome. You can speak the French tongue;
    And pray receive 'em nobly, and conduct 'em
    Into our presence, where this heaven of beauty
    Shall shine at full upon them. Some attend him.
    All rise and tables removed.
    750You have now a broken banquet, but we'll mend it.
    A good digestion to you all! And once more
    I shower a welcome on ye! Welcome, all.
    Hoboyes. Enter King and others as masquers, habited like shepherds, ushered by the Lord Chamberlain. They 755pass directly before the Cardinal and gracefully salute him.
    A noble company! What are their pleasures?
    Chamberlain
    Because they speak no English, thus they prayed
    To tell your grace that, having heard by fame
    760Of 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
    Craue leave to view these ladies, and entreat
    765An hour of revels with 'em.
    Wolsey
    Say, lord chamberlain,
    They have done my poor house grace,
    For which I pay 'em a thousand thanks,
    And pray 'em take their pleasures.
    770Choose Ladies, King and Ann Bullen.
    King Henry
    The fairest hand I ever touched. O, Beauty,
    Till now I never knew thee.
    Music, dance.
    Wolsey
    My lord.
    775Chamberlain
    Your grace.
    Wolsey
    Pray tell 'em thus much from me:
    There should be one amongst 'em by his person
    More worthy this place then my self, to whom
    (If I but knew him), with my love and duty
    780I would surrender it.
    Whisper.
    Chamberlain
    I will, my lord.
    Wolsey
    What say they?
    Chamberlain
    Such a one, they all confess,
    There is indeed; which they would have your grace
    785Find out, and he will take it.
    Wolsey
    Let me see then,
    By all your good leaves, gentlemen, here I'll make
    My royal choice.
    King Henry
    Ye haue found him Cardinal!
    790You hold a fair assembly. You do well, lord.
    You are a churchman, or I'll tell you, cardinal,
    I should judge now unhappily.
    Wolsey
    I am glad
    Your grace is grown so pleasant.
    795King Henry
    My lord chamberlain,
    Prithee come hither. What fair lady's that?
    Chamberlain
    An't please your grace,
    Sir Thomas Bullen's daughter, the Viscount Rochford,
    One of her highness' women.
    800King Henry
    By heaven she is a dainty one. Sweetheart,
    I were unmannerly to take you out
    And not to kiss you. A health, gentlemen!
    Let it go 'round.
    Wolsey
    Sir Thomas Lovell, is the banquet ready
    805I'th'privy chamber?
    Lovell
    Yes, my lord.
    Wolsey
    Your grace,
    I fear, with dancing is a little heated.
    King Henry
    I fear too much.
    810Wolsey
    There's fresher air, my lord,
    In the next chamber.
    King Henry
    Lead in your ladies, ev'ry one. Sweet partner,
    I must not yet forsake you. Let's be merry!
    Good my lord cardinal, I have half a dozen healths
    815To drink to these fair ladies, and a measure
    To lead 'em once again; and then let's dream
    Who's best in favor. Let the music knock it!
    820Enter two Gentlemen at several doors.
    1 Gentleman
    Whither away so fast?
    2 Gentleman
    O, God save ye;
    EEv'n to the hall to hear what shall become
    Of the great Duke of Buckingham.
    8251 Gentleman
    I'll save you
    That labor, sir. All's now done but the ceremony
    Of bringing back the prisoner.
    2 Gentleman
    Were you there?
    1 Gentleman
    Yes, indeed was I.
    8302 Gentleman
    Pray, speak what has happened.
    1 Gentleman
    You may guess quickly what.
    2 Gentleman
    Is he found guilty?
    1 Gentleman
    Yes, truly is he,
    And condemned upon't.
    8352 Gentleman
    I am sorry for't.
    1 Gentleman
    So are a number more.
    2 Gentleman
    But pray, how passed it?
    1 Gentleman
    I'll tell you in a little. The great duke
    Came to the bar where, to his accusations,
    840He pleaded still not guilty, and alleged
    Many sharp reasons to defeat the law.
    The king's attorney, on the contrary,
    Urged on the examinations, proofs, confessions
    Of divers witnesses, which the duke desired
    845To him brought viva voce to his face;
    At which appeared against him his surveyor,
    Sir Gilbert Peck his chancellor, and John Carr,
    Confessor to him, with that devil monk,
    Hopkins, that made this mischief.
    8502 Gentleman
    That was he
    That fed him with his prophecies?
    1 Gentleman
    The same.
    All these accused him strongly, which he fain
    Would have flung from him, but indeed he could not.
    855And 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.
    2 Gentleman
    After all this how did he bear himself?
    8601 Gentleman
    When he was brought again to th'bar, to hear
    His knell rung out, his judgement, he was stirred
    With such an agony, he sweat extremely,
    And something spoke in choler, ill, and hasty;
    But he fell to himself again, and sweetly
    865In all the rest showed a most noble patience.
    2 Gentleman
    I do not think he fears death.
    1 Gentleman
    Sure he does not;
    He never was so womanish. The cause
    He may a little grieve at.
    8702 Gentleman
    Certainly
    The cardinal is the end of this.
    1 Gentleman
    'Tis likely
    By all conjectures: first Kildare's attainder,
    Then Deputy of Ireland, who removed,
    875Earl Surrey was sent thither, and in haste too,
    Lest he should help his father.
    2 Gentleman
    That trick of state
    Was a deep, envious one.
    1 Gentleman
    At his return
    880No doubt he will requite it. This is noted
    (And generally), whoever the king favors
    The cardinal instantly will find employment,
    And far enough from court, too.
    2 Gentleman
    All the commons
    885Hate him perniciously and, o' my conscience,
    Wish him ten fathom deep. This duke as much
    They love and dote on, call him 'bounteous Buckingham,
    The mirror of all courtesy.'
    1 Gentleman
    Stay there, sir,
    And see the noble ruined man you speak of.
    8952 Gentleman
    Let's stand close and behold him.
    Buckingham
    All good people:
    You that thus far have come to pity me,
    Hear what I say, and then go home and lose me.
    I have this day received a traitor's judgement,
    900And by that name must die; yet heaven bear witness,
    And if I have a conscience, let it sink me,
    Even as the axe falls, if I be not faithful.
    The law I bear no malice for my death.
    'T has done upon the premises but justice.
    905But those that sought it I could wish more Christians
    (Be what they will), I heartily forgive 'em.
    Yet let 'em look they glory not in mischief,
    Nor build their evils on the graves of great men;
    For then my guiltless blood must cry against 'em.
    910For further life in this world I ne'er hope,
    Nor will I sue, although the king have mercies
    More than I dare make faults.
    You few that loved me,
    And dare be bold to weep for Buckingham,
    915His noble friends and fellows, whom to leave
    Is only bitter to him, only dying:
    Go with me like good angels to my end,
    And as the long divorce of steel falls on me,
    Make of your prayers one sweet sacrifice
    920And lift my soul to heaven.
    Lead on, a God's name.
    Lovell
    I do beseech your grace, for charity,
    If ever any malice in your heart
    Were hid against me, now to forgive me frankly.
    925Buckingham
    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 shall make my grave.
    930Commend me to his grace,
    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
    Shall cry for blessings on him. May he live
    935Longer then I have time to tell his years,
    Ever beloved and loving may his rule be;
    And when old time shall lead him to his end,
    Goodness and he fill up one monument.
    Lovell
    To th' waterside I must conduct your grace,
    940Then give my charge up to Sir Nicholas Vaux,
    Who undertakes you to your end.
    Prepare there,
    The duke is coming! See the barge be ready,
    And fit it with such furniture as suits
    945The greatness of his person.
    Buckingham
    Nay, Sir Nicholas,
    Let it alone; my state now will but mock me.
    When I came hither I was Lord High Constable
    And Duke of Buckingham: now, poor Edward Bohun.
    950Yet I am richer then my base accusers,
    That never knew what truth meant. I now seal it,
    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;
    955Flying for succor to his servant Banister,
    Being distressed, was by that wretch betrayed,
    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
    960Restored me to my honors; and out of ruins
    Made my name once more noble. Now his son,
    Henry the Eighth, life, honor, name, and all
    That made me happy, at one stroke has taken
    Forever from the world. I had my trial,
    965And must needs say a noble one, which makes me
    A little happier than my wretched father.
    Yet thus far we are one in fortunes: both
    Fell by our servants, by those men we loved most;
    A most unnatural and faithless service.
    970Heaven has an end in all. Yet you that hear me,
    This from a dying man receive as certain:
    Where you are liberal of your loves and counsels,
    Be sure you be not loose, for those you make friends
    And give your hearts to, when they once perceive
    975The least rub in your fortunes, fall away
    Like water from ye, never found again
    But where they mean to sink ye. All good people
    Pray for me. I must now forsake ye. The last hour
    Of my long weary life is come upon me.
    980Farewell, and when you would say something that is sad,
    Speak how I fell.
    I have done, and God forgive me.
    Exeunt Duke and train.
    1 Gentleman
    Oh, this is full of pity! Sir, it calls,
    985I fear, too many curses on their heads
    That were the authors.
    2 Gentleman
    If the duke be guiltless
    'Tis full of woe; yet I can give you inkling
    Of an ensuing evil if it fall
    990Greater than this.
    1 Gentleman
    Good angels keep it from us;
    What may it be? You do not doubt my faith, sir?
    2 Gentleman
    This secret is so weighty 'twill require
    A strong faith to conceal it.
    9951 Gentleman
    Let me have it;
    I do not talk much.
    2 Gentleman
    I am confident
    You shall, sir. Did you not of late days hear
    A buzzing of a separation
    1000Between the king and Katherine?
    1 Gentleman
    Yes, but it held not,
    For when the king once heard it, out of anger
    He sent command to the Lord Mayor straight
    To stop the rumor and allay those tongues
    1005That durst disperse it.
    2 Gentleman
    But that slander, sir,
    Is found a truth now for it grows again
    Fresher then e'er it was, and held for certain
    The King will venture at it. Either the cardinal,
    1010Or some about him near have, out of malice
    To the good queen, possessed him with a scruple
    That will undo her. To confirm this, too,
    Cardinal Campeius is arrived and lately,
    As all think for this business.
    10151 Gentleman
    'Tis the cardinal;
    And merely to revenge him on the emperor
    For not bestowing on him at his asking
    he Archbishopric of Toledo this is purposed.
    2 Gentleman
    I think
    1020You have hit the mark. But is't not cruel
    That she should feel the smart of this? The cardinal
    Will have his will and she must fall.
    1 Gentleman
    'Tis woeful.
    We are too open here to argue this;
    1025Let's think in private more.
    Exeunt.
    Enter Lord Chamberlain, reading this letter.
    Chamberlain
    'My lord, The horses your lordship sent for, with all the
    care I had, I saw well chosen, ridden, and furnished.
    1030They were young and handsome, and of the best breed in the
    north. When they were ready to set out for London, a man
    of my lord cardinal's, by commission and main power, took
    'em from me, with this reason: his master would be served
    before a subject, if not before the king, which stopped our mouths,
    1035sir.'
    I fear he will indeed; well, let him have them; he
    will have all, I think.
    Enter to the Lord Chamberlain the Dukes of Norfolk and Suffolk.
    1040Norfolk
    Well met, my lord Chamberlain.
    Chamberlain
    Good day to both your graces.
    Suffolk
    How is the king employed?
    Chamberlain
    I left him private, full of sad thoughts and troubles.
    1045Norfolk
    What's the cause?
    Chamberlain
    It seems the marriage with his brother's wife Has crept too near his conscience.
    Suffolk
    No, his Conscience
    Ha's crept too neere another Ladie.
    1050Norfolk
    Tis so;
    This is the Cardinals doing: The King-Cardinall,
    That blinde Priest, like the eldest Sonne of Fortune,
    Turnes what he list. The King will know him one day.
    Suffolk
    Pray God he do.
    1055He'll never know himself else.
    Norfolk
    How holily he works in all his business,
    And with what zeal? For now he has cracked the league
    Between us and the emperor (the queen's great-nephew).
    He dives into the king's soul and there scatters
    1060Dangers, doubts, wringing of the conscience,
    Fears and despairs, and all these for his marriage.
    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
    1065About his neck, yet never lost her luster;
    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?
    1070Chamberlain
    Heaven keep me from such counsel; 'tis most true.
    These news are everywhere; every tongue speaks 'em,
    And every true heart weeps for't. All that dare
    Look into these affairs see this main end:
    The French king's sister. Heaven will one day open
    1075The king's eyes that so long have slept upon
    This bold, bad man.
    Suffolk
    And free us from his slavery.
    Norfolk
    We had need pray,
    And heartily, for our deliverance,
    1080Or this imperious man will work us all
    From princes into pages. All men's honors
    Lie like one lump before him, to be fashioned
    Into what pitch he please.
    Suffolk
    For me, my lords,
    1085I 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
    Touch me alike; they're breath I not believe in.
    I knew him, and I know him; so I leave him
    1090To him that made him proud, the pope.
    Norfolk
    Let's in,
    And with some other business put the king
    From these sad thoughts that work too much upon him.
    My lord, you'll bear us company?
    1095Chamberlain
    Excuse me,
    the king has sent me otherwhere. Besides
    You'll find a most unfit time to disturb him.
    Health to your lordships.
    Norfolk
    Thanks, my good lord Chamberlaine.
    1100Exit Lord Chamberlain. The King draws the Curtain and sits reading pensively.
    Suffolk
    How sad he looks; sure he is much afflicted.
    King Henry
    Who's there? Ha?
    Norfolk
    Pray God he be not angry.
    1105King Henry
    Who's there, I say? How dare you thrust yourselves
    Into my private meditations!
    Who am I? Ha?
    Norfolk
    A gracious King, that pardons all offences
    Malice ne'er meant. Our breach of duty this way
    1110Is business of estate, in which we come
    To know your royal pleasure.
    King Henry
    Ye are too bold.
    Go to; I'll make ye know your times of business.
    Is this an hour for temporal affairs? Ha?
    1115Enter Wolsey and Campeius with a Commission.
    Who's there? my good lord cardinal? O, my Wolsey,
    The quiet of my wounded conscience;
    Thou art a cure fit for a king. you're welcome,
    Most learned reverend sir, into our kingdom;
    1120Use us, and it. My good lord, have great care
    I be not found a talker.
    Wolsey
    Sir, you cannot;
    I would your grace would give us but an hour
    Of private conference.
    1125King Henry
    We are busy; go.
    Norfolk
    This priest has no pride in him.
    Suffolk
    Not to speake of.
    I would not be so sick, though, for his place.
    But this cannot continue.
    1130Norfolk
    If it do
    I'll venture one have at him.
    Suffolk
    I another.
    Exeunt Norfolk and Suffolk.
    Wolsey
    Your grace has given a precedent of wisdom
    Above all princes, in committing freely
    1135Your scruple to the voice of Christendom.
    Who can be angry now? What envy reach you?
    The Spaniard tied by blood and favor to her
    Must now confess, if they have any goodness,
    The trial, just and noble. All the clerks
    1140(I mean the learned ones in Christian kingdoms)
    Have their free voices. Rome, the nurse of judgement
    Invited by your noble self, hath sent
    One general tongue unto us: this good man,
    This just and learned priest Cardinal Campeius,
    1145Whom once more I present unto your highness.
    King Henry
    AAnd 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 wished for.
    Campeius
    Your grace must needs deserve all strangers' loves,
    1150You are so noble. To your highness' hand
    I tender my commission, by whose virtue
    The court of Rome commanding. You, my Lord
    Cardinal of York, are joined with me, their servant
    In the unpartial judging of this business.
    1155King Henry
    Two equal men; the queen shall be acquainted
    Forthwith for what you come. Where's Gardiner?
    I know your majesty has always loved her
    So dear in heart not to deny her that
    A woman of less place might ask by law,
    1160Scholars allowed freely to argue for her.
    King Henry
    Aye, and the best she shall have; and my favor
    To him that does best, God forbid else. Cardinal,
    Prithee call Gardiner to me, my new secretary.
    I find him a fit fellow.
    1165 Enter Gardiner.
    Give me your hand. Much joy and favor to you;
    You are the king's now.
    Gardiner
    But to be commanded
    Forever by your grace, whose hand has raised me.
    1170King Henry
    Come hither, Gardiner.
    Walks and whispers.
    Campeius
    My lord of York, was not one Doctor Pace
    In this man's place before him?
    Yes, he was.
    1175Campeius
    Was he not held a learned man?
    Yes, surely.
    Campeius
    Believe me, there's an ill opinion spread, then,
    Even of yourself, lord cardinal.
    How? of me?
    1180Campeius
    They will not stick to say you envied him
    And, fearing he would rise (he was so virtuous)
    Kept him a foreign man still, which so grieved him
    That he ran mad and died.
    Heaven's peace be with him;
    1185That'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,
    If I command him, follows my appointment;
    I will have none so near else. Learn this, brother:
    1190We live not to be gripped by meaner persons.
    King Henry
    Deliver this with modesty to th' queen.
    Exit Gardiner.
    The most convenient place that I can think of
    For such receipt of learning is Blackfriars.
    1195There ye shall meet about this weighty business.
    My Wolsey, see it furnished. O, my lord,
    Would it not grieve an able man to leave
    So sweet a bedfellow? But conscience, conscience;
    O, 'tis a tender place and I must leave her.
    Exeunt.
    Enter Anne Bullen, and an old Lady.
    Not for that, neither; here's the pang that pinches:
    His highness, having lived so long with her, and she
    So good a lady that no tongue could ever
    1205Pronounce dishonor of her. By my life
    She never knew harm-doing. Oh, now after
    So many courses of the sun enthroned,
    Still growing in a majesty and pomp, the which
    To leave a thousandfold more bitter, than
    1210'Tis sweet at first t'acquire. After this process
    To give her the avaunt, it is a pity
    Would move a monster.
    Old Lady
    Hearts of most hard temper
    Melt and lament for her.
    Oh God's will, much better
    She ne'er had known pomp; though't be temporal,
    Yet if that quarrel Fortune do divorce
    It from the bearer, 'tis a sufferance, panging
    As soul and body's severing.
    1220Old Lady
    Alas poore Lady,
    She's a stranger now again.
    So much the more
    Must pity drop upon her; verily
    I swear, 'tis better to be lowly born
    1225And range with humble livers in content,
    Than to be perked up in a glist'ring grief
    And wear a golden sorrow.
    Old Lady
    Our content
    Is our best having.
    By my troth and maidenhead
    I would not be a queen.
    Old Lady
    Beshrew me, I would,
    And venture maidenhead for't, and so would you
    For all this spice of your hypocrisy.
    1235You 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
    (Saving your mincing), the capacity
    1240Of your soft cheverel conscience would receive
    If you might please to stretch it.
    Nay, good troth.
    Old Lady
    Yes, troth and troth. You would not be a queen?
    No, not for all the riches under heaven.
    1245Old Lady
    'Tis strange: a threepence bowed would hire me,
    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?
    No, in truth.
    1250Old Lady
    Then you are weakly made. Pluck off a little;
    I would not be a young count in your way,
    For more then blushing comes to. If your back
    Cannot vouchsafe this burden 'tis too weak
    Ever to get a boy.
    How you do talk.
    I swear again I would not be a queen
    For all the world!
    Old Lady
    In faith, for little England
    You'd venture an emballing: I, myself,
    1260Would for Caernarfonshire, although there longed
    No more to th' crown but that. Lo, who comes here?
    Chamberlain
    Good morrow, ladies; what were't worth to know
    The secret of your conference?
    My good lord,
    Not your demand; it values not your asking.
    Our mistress's sorrows we were pitying.
    Chamberlain
    It was a gentle business, and becoming
    The action of good women; there is hope
    1270All will be well.
    Now I pray God, amen.
    Chamberlain
    You bear a gentle mind, and heavenly blessings
    Follow such creatures. That you may, fair lady,
    Perceive I speak sincerely, and high notes
    1275Ta'en of your many virtues. The king's majesty
    Commends his good opinion of you to you, and
    Does purpose honor to you no less flowing
    Than Marchioness of Pembroke; to which title
    A thousand pound a year annual support,
    1280Out of his grace, he adds.
    I do not know
    What kind of my obedience I should tender.
    More then my all is nothing, nor my prayers
    Are not words duly hallowed, nor my wishes
    1285More worth than empty vanities. Yet prayers and wishes
    Are all I can return. Beseech your lordship,
    Vouchsafe to speak my thanks and my obedience
    As from a blushing handmaid to his highness,
    Whose health and royalty I pray for.
    1290Chamberlain
    Lady,
    I shall not fail t'approve the fair conceit
    The king hath of you. I have perused her well,
    Beauty and honor in her are so mingled
    That they have caught the king, and who knows yet
    1295But from this lady may proceed a gem
    To lighten all this isle. I'll to the King
    And say I spoke with you.
    Exit Lord Chamberlaine.
    My honored Lord.
    1300Old Lady
    Why this it is: see, see,
    I have been begging sixteen years in court
    (Am yet a courtier beggarly) nor could
    Come pat betwixt too early and too late
    For any suit of pounds. And you, (O, fate)
    1305A very fresh fish here. Fie, fie, fie upon
    This compelled fortune. Have your mouth filled up
    Before you open it.
    This is strange to me.
    Old Lady
    How tastes it? Is it bitter? Forty pence, no.
    1310There was a lady once ('tis an old story)
    That would not be a queen, that would she not
    For all the mud in Egypt. Have you heard it?
    Come, you are pleasant.
    Old Lady
    With your theme I could
    1315O'er mount the lark: the Marchioness of Pembroke?
    A thousand pounds a year for pure respect?
    No other obligation? by my life
    That promises mo' thousands! Honor's train
    Is longer than his fore-skirt. By this time
    1320I know your back will bear a duchess. Say,
    Are you not stronger then you were?
    Good Lady,
    Make yourself mirth with your particular fancy
    And leave me out on't. Would I had no being
    1325If this salute my blood a jot; it faints me
    To think what follows.
    The queen is comfortless and we forgetful
    In our long absence. Pray, do not deliver
    What here y'have heard to her.
    1330Old Lady
    What do you think me?
    Exeunt.
    Trumpets, Sennet, and Cornets. Enter two Vergers, with short silver wands; next them two Scribes in the habite of Doctors; after them, the Bishop of 1335Canterbury alone; after him, the Bishops of Lincoln, Ely, Rochester, and St. 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 Crosse: Then a Gentleman Usher 1340bareheaded, accompanied with a Sergeant at Arms, bearing a Silver Mace: Then two Gentlemen bearing two great Silver Pillers: 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 1345under 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.
    1350Wolsey
    Whilst our commission from Rome is read
    Let silence be commanded.
    King Henry
    What's the need?
    It hath already publicly been read
    And on all sides th'authority allowed;
    1355You may then spare that time.
    Wolsey
    Be't so; proceed.
    Scribe
    Say, 'Henry King of England, come into the court.'
    Crier
    Henry King of England, come into the court.
    King Henry
    Here.
    1360Scribe
    Say, 'Katherine Queen of England,
    Come into the court.'
    Katherine Queen of England, come into the court.
    The Queen makes no answer, rises out of her chair, goes about the court, comes to the King, and kneels at 1365his feet. Then speaks.
    Katharine
    Sir, I desire you do me right and justice
    And to bestow your pity on me, for
    I am a most poor woman, and a stranger
    Born out of your dominions, having here
    1370No judge indifferent, nor no more assurance
    Of equal friendship and proceeding. Alas, sir:
    In what have I offended you? What cause
    Hath my behavior given to your displeasure
    That thus you should proceed to put me off
    1375And take your good grace from me? Heaven witness
    I have been to you a true and humble wife,
    At all times to your will conformable;
    Ever in fear to kindle your dislike;
    Yea, subject to your countenance, glad or sorry,
    1380As I saw it inclined? When was the hour
    I ever contradicted your desire,
    Or made it not mine, too? Or which of your friends
    Have I not strove to love, although I knew
    He were mine enemy? What friend of mine,
    1385That had to him derived your anger, did I
    Continue in my liking? Nay, gave notice
    He was from thence discharged? Sir, call to mind
    That I have been your wife in this obedience
    Upward of twenty years, and have been blessed
    1390With many children by you. If, in the course
    And process of this time, you can report -
    And prove it too - against mine honor aught,
    My bond to wedlock or my love and duty
    Against your sacred person, in God's name
    1395Turn me away and let the foul'st contempt
    Shut door upon me, and so give me up
    To the sharp'st kind of justice. Please you, sir,
    The king your father was reputed for
    A prince most prudent, of an excellent
    1400And unmatched wit and judgement. Ferdinand,
    My father, king of Spain, was reckoned one
    The wisest prince that there had reigned by many
    A year before. It is not to be questioned
    That they had gathered a wise council to them
    1405Of every realm that did debate this business,
    Who deemed our marriage lawful. Wherefore I humbly
    Beseech you, sir, to spare me till I may
    Be, by my friends in Spain, advised; whose counsel
    I will implore. If not, i'th' name of God,
    1410Your pleasure be fulfilled.
    Wolsey
    You have here, lady,
    And of your choice these reverend fathers, men
    Of singular integrity, and learning;
    Yea, the elect o'th'Land, who are assembled
    1415To plead your cause. It shall be therefore bootless
    That longer you desire the court, as well
    For your own quiet as to rectify
    What is unsettled in the king.
    Campeius
    His grace
    1420Hath spoken well and justly; therefore, madam,
    It's fit this royal session do proceed,
    And that (without delay) their arguments
    Be now produced and heard.
    Katharine
    Lord cardinal, to you I speak.
    1425Wolsey
    Your pleasure, madam.
    Katharine
    Sir, I am about to weep; but thinking that
    We are a queen (or long have dreamed so), certain
    The daughter of a king, my drops of tears
    I’ll turn to sparks of fire.
    1430Wolsey
    Be patient yet.
    Katharine
    I will, when you are humble; nay before,
    Or God will punish me. I do believe
    (Induced by potent circumstances), that
    You are mine enemy and make my challenge;
    1435You 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
    I utterly abhor, yea, from my soul
    Refuse you for my judge, whom yet once more
    1440I hold my most malicious foe, and think not
    At all a friend to truth.
    Wolsey
    I do profess
    You speak not like yourself who, ever yet,
    Have stood to charity and displayed th'effects
    1445Of disposition gentle, and of wisedome,
    O’er-topping woman’s power. Madam, you do me wrong.
    I have no spleen against you, nor injustice
    For you or any. How far I have proceeded,
    Or how far further shall, is warranted
    1450By 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
    That I gainsay my deed how may he wound,
    1455And worthily, my falsehood; yea, as much
    As you have done my truth. If he know
    That I am free of your report, he knows
    I am not of your wrong. Therefore in him
    It lies to cure me, and the cure is to
    1460Remove 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.
    Katharine
    My lord, my Lord:
    1465I am a simple woman, much too weak
    T'oppose your cunning. Y'are meek, and humble-mouthed;
    You sign your place and calling in full seeming,
    With meekness and humility; but your heart
    Is crammed with arrogancy, spleen, and pride.
    1470You have by fortune, and his highness’s favors,
    Gone slightly o’er low steps and now are mounted
    Where powers are your retainers and your words
    (Domestics to you), serve your will as't please
    Yourself pronounce their office. I must tell you,
    1475You tender more your person’s honor 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
    1480And to be judged by him.
    She curtsies to the King, and offers to depart.
    Campeius
    The queen is obstinate,
    Stubborn to justice, apt to accuse it, and
    Disdainful to be tried by’t. ’Tis not well;
    1485She's going away.
    King Henry
    Call her again.
    Katherine, Queen of England, come into the court.
    Griffith
    Madam, you are called back.
    Katharine
    What, need you note it? Pray you keep your way
    1490When you are called return. Now, the Lord help,
    They vex me past my patience. Pray you, pass on;
    I will not tarry. No, nor ever more
    Upon this business my appearance make
    In any of their courts.
    1495Exit Queen and her Attendants.
    King Henry
    Go thy ways, Kate,
    That man i'th' world who shall report he has
    A better wife, let him in naught be trusted
    For speaking false in that. Thou art alone
    1500(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),
    The queen of earthly queens. She's noble born,
    1505And like her true nobility she has
    Carried herself towards me.
    Most gracious sir,
    In humblest manner I require your highness
    That it shall please you to declare in hearing
    1510Of all these ears (for where I am robed and bound,
    There must I be unloosed, although not there
    At once, and fully satisfied) whether ever I
    Did broach this business to your highness, or
    Laid any scruple in your way, which might
    1515Induce 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
    Be to the prejudice of her present state
    Or touch of her good person?
    1520King Henry
    My lord cardinal,
    I do excuse you. Yea, upon mine honor
    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
    1525Bark when their fellows do. By some of these
    The queen is put in anger. Y'are excused;
    But will you be more justified? You ever
    Have wished the sleeping of this business, never desired
    It to be stirred; but oft have hindered, oft
    1530The passages made toward it. On my honor
    I speak, my good lord cardinal, to this point,
    And thus far clear him.
    Now, what moved me to't,
    I will be bold with time and your attention.
    1535Then mark th' inducement. Thus it came; give heed to't.
    My conscience first received a tenderness,
    Scruple, and prick, on certain speeches uttered
    By th' bishop of Bayonne, then French ambassador,
    Who had beene hither sent on the debating
    1540And marriage 'twixt the Duke of Orleans and
    Our daughter Mary. I'th' progress of this business,
    Ere a determinate resolution, he
    (I meane the Bishop) did require a respite,
    Wherein he might the king, his lord, advertise
    1545Whether our daughter were legitimate,
    Respecting this our marriage with the dowager
    Sometimes our brother's wife. This respite shook
    The bosom of my conscience; entered me,
    Yea, with a spitting power and made to tremble
    1550The region of my breast which forced such way
    That many 'mazed considerings did throng
    And pressed in with this caution. First, methought
    I stood not in the smile of heaven, who had
    Commanded nature, that my lady's womb,
    1555If it conceived a male child by me should
    Do no more offices of life to't than
    The grave does to th' dead. For her male issue
    Or died where they were made, or shortly after
    This world had aired them. Hence I took a thought,
    1560This was a judgement on me, that my kingdom
    (Well worthy the best heir o'th' world), should not
    Be gladded in't by me. Then follows that
    I weighed the danger, which my realms stood in
    By this my issue's fail, and that gave to me
    1565Many a groaning throw. Thus hulling in
    The wild sea of my conscience I did steer
    Toward this remedy, whereupon we are
    Now present here together: that's to say
    I meant to rectify my conscience, which
    1570I then did feel full sick, and yet not well
    By all the reverend fathers of the land
    And doctors learned. First I began in private,
    With you my lord of Lincoln; you remember
    How, under my oppression, I did reek
    1575When I first moved you.
    Lincoln
    Very well, my liege.
    King Henry
    I have spoke long, be pleased yourself to say
    How far you satisfied me.
    Lincoln
    So please your highness,
    1580The question did at first so stagger me,
    Bearing a state of mighty moment in't
    And consequence of dread, that I committed
    The daringest counsel which I had to doubt,
    And did entreat your highness to this course
    1585Which you are running heere.
    King Henry
    I then moved you
    My Lord of Canterbury, and got your leave
    To make this present summons unsolicited.
    I left no reverend person in this court,
    1590But by particular consent proceeded
    Under your hands and seals; therefore go on,
    For no dislike i'th' world against the person
    Of the good queen but the sharp, thorny points
    Of my alleged reasons drives this forward.
    1595Prove but our marriage lawful, by my life
    And kingly dignity, we are contented
    To wear our mortal state to come with her,
    (Katherine our queen), before the primest creature
    That's paragoned o'th' world.
    1600Campeius
    So please your highness,
    The queen being absent, 'tis a needful fitness
    That we adjourn this court till further day.
    Meanwhile, must be an earnest motion
    Made to the queen to call back her appeal
    1605She intends unto his holiness.
    King Henry
    I may perceive
    These cardinals trifle with me. I abhor
    This dilatory sloth and tricks of Rome.
    My learned and well-beloved servant Cranmer,
    1610Prithee return; with thy approach I know
    My comfort comes along. Break up the court;
    I say, set on!
    Exeunt, in manner as they entered.
    1615Enter Queen and her Women as at work.
    Katharine
    Take thy lute, wench:
    My soul grows sad with troubles.
    Sing, and disperse 'em if thou canst; leave working.
    Orpheus, with his lute, made trees,
    And the mountain tops that freeze
    Bow themselves when he did sing.
    To his music, plants and flowers,
    Ever sprung; as sun and showers
    1625There had made a lasting spring.
    Every thing that heard him play,
    Even the billows of the sea,
    Hung their heads and then lay by.
    In sweet music is such art,
    1630Killing care and grief of heart,
    Fall asleep, or hearing die.
    Enter a Gentleman.
    Katharine
    How now?
    Gentlewoman
    And't please your grace, the two great cardinals
    1635Wait in the presence.
    Katharine
    Would they speak with me?
    Gentlewoman
    They willed me say so, Madam.
    Katharine
    Pray their graces
    To come near. What can be their business
    1640With me, a poor weak woman, fall'n from favor?
    I do not like their coming; now I think on't
    They should be good men, their affairs as righteous.
    But all hoods make not monks.
    Enter the two Cardinals, Wolsey and Campieus.
    1645Wolsey
    Peace to your highness.
    Katharine
    Your graces find me here part of a housewife,
    (I would be all), against the worst may happen.
    What are your pleasures with me, reverent lords?
    Wolsey
    May it please you, noble madam to withdraw
    1650Into your private chamber. We shall give you
    The full cause of our coming.
    Katharine
    Speak it here.
    There's nothing I have done yet o' my conscience
    Deserves a corner. Would all other Women
    1655Could 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 ev'ry tongue, ev'ry eye saw 'em,
    Envy and base opinion set against 'em;
    1660I know my life so even. If your business
    Seek me out, and that way I am wife in.
    Out with it boldly; truth loves open dealing.
    Wolsey
    Tanta est erga te mentis integritas Regina serenissima.
    Katharine
    O, good my lord, no Latin.
    1665I 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.
    Pray, speak in English; here are some will thank you
    If you speak truth, for their poor mistress's sake.
    1670Believe me, she has had much wrong. Lord cardinal,
    The willingest sin I ever yet committed,
    May be absolved in English.
    Wolsey
    Noble lady,
    I am sorry my integrity should breed,
    1675(And service to his majesty and you)
    So deep suspicion, where all faith was meant.
    We come not by the way of accusation,
    To taint that honor every good tongue blesses,
    Nor to betray you any way to sorrow.
    1680You 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
    And comforts to our cause.
    1685Campeius
    Most honoured madam,
    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),
    1690Offers, as I do, in a sign of peace,
    His service and his counsel.
    Katharine
    To betray me.
    My lords, I thank you both for your good wills.
    YYe speak like honest men, (pray God ye prove so),
    1695But how to make ye suddenly an answer
    In such a point of weight, so need mine honor,
    (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,
    1700Among my maids, full little (God knows), looking
    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.
    1705Alas, I am a woman friendless, hopeless.
    Wolsey
    Madam,
    You wrong the king's love with these fears,
    Your hopes and friends are infinite.
    Katharine
    In England,
    1710But little for my profit can you think, lords,
    That any English man dare give me counsel?
    Or be a known friend 'gainst his highness's pleasure,
    (Though he be grown so desperate to be honest)
    And live a subject? Nay, forsooth my friends,
    1715They that must weigh out my afflictions,
    They that my trust must grow to, live not here;
    They are (as all my other comforts) far hence
    In mine own country, lords.
    Campeius
    I would your grace
    1720Would leave your griefs and take my counsel.
    Katharine
    How, sir?
    Campeius
    Put your main cause into the king's protection;
    He's loving and most gracious. 'Twill be much
    Both for your honor better and your cause;
    1725For if the trial of the law o'ertake ye,
    You'll part away disgraced.
    He tels you rightly.
    Katharine
    Ye tell me what ye wish for both: my ruin.
    Is this your Christian counsel? Out upon ye!
    1730Heaven is above all yet; there sits a judge
    That no king can corrupt.
    Campeius
    Your rage mistakes us.
    Katharine
    The more shame for ye; holy men I thought ye,
    Upon my soul, two reverend cardinal virtues.
    1735But cardinal sins and hollow hearts I fear ye;
    Mend 'em for shame my Lords: Is this your comfort?
    The cordial that ye bring a wretched lady?
    A woman lost among ye, laughed at, scorned?
    I will not wish ye half my miseries;
    1740I have more charity. But say I warn'd ye;
    Take heed, for heaven's sake take heed, least at once
    The burden of my sorrows fall upon ye.
    Madam, this is a mere distraction;
    You turn the good we offer into envy.
    1745Katharine
    Ye turn me into nothing. Woe upon ye
    And all such false professors. Would you have me
    (If you have any justice, any pity;
    If ye be any thing but churhmens' habits);
    Put my sick cause into his hands that hates me?
    1750Alas, he's banished me his bed already,
    His love, too, long ago. I am old, my lords,
    And all the fellowship I hold now with him
    Is only my obedience. What can happen
    To me above this wretchedness? All your studies
    1755Make me a curse like this.
    Campeius
    Your fears are worse.
    Katharine
    Have I lived thus long (let me speak myself,
    Since virtue finds no friends), a wife, a true one?
    A woman (I dare say without vainglory),
    1760Never yet branded with suspicion?
    Have I, with all my full affections,
    Still met the king? Loved him next heaven? Obeyed him?
    Been (out of fondness), superstitious to him?
    Almost forgot my prayers to content him?
    1765And am I thus rewarded? 'Tis not well, lords.
    Bring me a constant woman to her husband,
    One that ne'er dreamed a joy beyond his pleasure;
    And to that woman (when she has done most),
    Yet will I add an honor: a great patience.
    Madam, you wander from the good
    We aim at.
    Katharine
    My lord,
    I dare not make myself so guilty
    To give up willingly that noble title
    1775Your master wed me to; nothing but death
    Shall e'er divorce my dignities.
    Pray, hear me.
    Katharine
    Would I had neuer trod this English earth,
    Or felt the flatteries that grow upon it:
    1780Ye have angels' faces, but heaven knows your hearts.
    What will become of me now, wretched lady?
    I am the most unhappy woman living.
    Alas (poor wenches) where are now your fortunes?
    Shipwrecked upon a kingdom where no pity,
    1785No friends, no hope, no kindred weep for me?
    Almost no grave allowed me? Like the lily
    That once was mistress of the field and flourished,
    I'll hang my head and perish.
    If your grace
    1790Could but be brought to know our ends are honest,
    You'd feel more comfort. Why should we, (good lady),
    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.
    1795For goodness' sake, consider what you do;
    How you may hurt yourself. Aye, utterly
    Grow from the king's acquaintance by this carriage.
    The hearts of princes kiss obedience,
    So much they love it. But to stubborn spirits
    1800They swell and grow as terrible as storms.
    I know you have a gentle, noble temper;
    A soul as even as a calm. Pray think us
    Those we profess: peace-makers, friends, and servants.
    Campeius
    Madam, you'l find it so.
    1805You wrong your virtues
    With these weak woman's fears. A noble spirit,
    As yours was put into you, ever casts
    Such doubts as false coin from it. The king loves you;
    Beware you lose it not. For us, (if you please
    1810To trust us in your business) we are ready
    To use our utmost studies in your service.
    Katharine
    Do what ye will, my lords,
    And pray forgiue me;
    If I have used myself unmannerly
    1815You know I am a woman, lacking wit
    To make a seemly answer to such persons.
    PPray do my service to his majesty;
    He has my heart yet, and shall have my prayers
    While I shall have my life. Come, reverend fathers,
    1820Bestow your counsels on me. She now begs
    That little thought when she set footing here,
    She should have bought her dignities so dear.
    Exeunt
    Enter the Duke of Norfolk, Duke of Suffolk, Lord Surrey, 1825and Lord Chamberlain.
    Norfolk
    If you will now unite in your complaints
    And force them with a constancy, the cardinal
    Cannot stand under them. If you omit
    The offer of this time I cannot promise
    1830But that you shall sustain more new disgraces
    With these you bear already.
    Surrey
    I am joyful
    To meet the least occasion that may give me
    Remembrance of my father-in-law the duke
    1835To be revenged on him.
    Suffolk
    Which of the peers
    Have uncondemned gone by him, or at least
    Strangely neglected? When did he regard
    The stamp of nobleness in any person
    1840Out of himself?
    Chamberlain
    My lords, you speak your pleasures;
    What he deserves of you and me, I know.
    What we can do to him, (though now the time
    Gives way to us) I much fear. If you cannot
    1845BBar his access to' th' king, never attempt
    Anything on him; for he hath a witchcraft
    Over the king in's tongue.
    Norfolk
    O fear him not,
    His spell in that is out: the King hath found
    1850Matter against him that forever mars
    The honey of his language. No, he's settled
    (Not to come off), in his displeasure.
    Surrey
    Sir,
    I should be glad to hear such news as this
    1855Once every hour.
    Norfolk
    Believe it, this is true.
    In the Diuorce, his contrarie proceedings
    Are all unfolded, wherein he appears
    As I would wish mine enemy.
    1860Surrey
    How came
    His practices to light?
    Suffolk
    Most strangely.
    Surrey
    O, how? how?
    Suffolk
    The cardinal's letters to the pope miscarried
    1865And came to th' eye o' th' king, wherein was read
    How that the cardinal did entreat his holiness
    To stay the judgement o' th' divorce; for if
    It did take place, 'I do', (quoth he) 'perceive
    My king is tangled in affection to
    1870A creature of the queen's, Lady Anne Bullen.'
    Surrey
    Has the King this?
    Suffolk
    Believe it.
    Surrey
    Will this work?
    Chamberlain
    The king in this perceiuvs him, how he coasts
    1875And hedges his own way. But in this point
    All his tricks founder, and he brings his physick
    After his patient's death: the king already
    Hath married the fair lady.
    Surrey
    Would he had.
    1880Suffolk
    May you be happy in your wish, my lord,
    For I profess you have it.
    Surrey
    Now all my joy
    Trace the conjunction.
    Suffolk
    My amen to't.
    1885Norfolk
    All men's.
    Suffolk
    There's order given for her coronation;
    Marry this is yet but young and may be left
    To some ears unrecounted. But, my lords,
    She is a gallant creature, and complete
    1890In mind and feature. I persuade me, from her
    Will fall some blessing to this land, which shall
    In it be memorized.
    Surrey
    But will the king
    Digest this letter of the cardinal's?
    1895The Lord forbid.
    Norfolk
    Marry, amen.
    Suffolk
    No, no!
    There be more wasps that buzz about his nose
    Will make this sting the sooner. Cardinal Campeius
    1900Is stolen away to Rome, hath ta'en no leave,
    Has left the cause o'th' king unhandled, and
    Is posted as the agent of our cardinal
    To second all his plot. I do assure you,
    The king cried ha! at this.
    1905Chamberlain
    Now God incense him,
    And let him cry ha! louder.
    Norfolk
    But my lord,
    When returns Cranmer?
    Suffolk
    He is returned in his opinions, which
    1910Have satisfied the king for his divorce,
    Together with all famous colleges
    Almost in christendom. Shortly, (I believe),
    His second marriage shall be published, and
    Her coronation. Katherine no more
    1915Shall be called queen, but Princess Dowager
    And widow to Prince Arthur.
    Norfolk
    This same Cranmer's
    A worthy fellow, and hath ta'en much pain
    In the king's business.
    1920Suffolk
    He has, and we shall see him
    For it, an archbishop.
    Norfolk
    So I hear.
    Suffolk
    'Tis so.
    Enter Wolsey and Cromwell.
    1925The Cardinal.
    Norfolk
    Observe, observe; he's moody.
    The packet, Cromwell,
    Gave't you the king?
    Comwell
    To his own hand, in's bedchamber.
    Looked he o'th'inside of the paper?
    Comwell
    Presently
    He did unseal them, and the first he viewed
    He did it with a serious mind; a heed
    Was in his countenance. You he bade
    1935Attend him here this morning.
    Is he ready to come abroad?
    Comwell
    I think by this he is.
    Leave me a while.
    Exit Cromwell.
    It shall be to the Duchess of Alanson,
    1940The French king's sister; he shall marry her.
    Anne Bullen? No, I'll no Anne Bullens for him;
    There's more in't then fair visage. Bullen?
    No, we'll no Bullens. Speedily I wish
    To hear from Rome. The marchioness of Pembroke?
    1945Norfolk
    He's discontented.
    Suffolk
    Maybe he hears the king
    Does whet his anger to him.
    Sharp enough,
    Lord, for thy justice.
    The late queen's gentlewoman?
    A knight's daughter
    To be her mistress's mistress? The queen's queen?
    This candle burns not clear; 'tis I must snuff it
    Then out it goes. What, though I know her virtuous
    1955And well deserving, yet I know her for
    A spleeny Lutheran, and not wholesome to
    Our cause, that she should lie i'th'bosom of
    Our hard ruled king. Again there is sprung up
    An heretic, an arch-one: Cranmer, one
    1960Hath crawled into the favor of the king
    And is his oracle.
    Norfolk
    He is vexed at something.
    Enter King, reading of a Schedule.
    I would 'twer something that would fret the string,
    1965The master-cord on's heart.
    Suffolk
    The king. The king.
    King Henry
    What piles of wealth hath he accumulated
    To his own portion? And what expense by'th'hour
    Seems to flow from him? How i'th'name of thrift
    1970Does he rake this together? Now, my lords,
    Saw you the cardinal?
    Norfolk
    My lord, we have
    Stood here observing him. Some strange commotion
    Is in his brain; he bites his lip and starts,
    1975Stops on a sudden, looks upon the ground,
    Then lays his finger on his temple; straight
    Springs out into fast gate, then stops again,
    Strikes his breast hard, and anon, he casts
    His eye against the moon. In most strange postures
    1980We have seen him set himself.
    King Henry
    It may well be
    There is a mutiny in's mind. This morning
    Papers of state he sent me, to peruse
    As I required; and wot you what I found
    1985There (on my conscience put unwittingly),
    Forsooth an inventory thus importing
    The several parcels of his plate, his treasure,
    Rich stuffs and ornaments of household, which
    I find at such proud rate that it out-speaks
    1990Possession of a subject.
    Norfolk
    It's heaven's will
    Some spirit put this paper in the packet
    To bless your eye with all.
    King Henry
    If we did think
    1995His contemplation were above the earth,
    And fixed on spiritual object, he should still
    Dwell in his musings; but I am afraid
    His thinkings are below the moon, not worth
    His serious considering.
    King takes his Seat, whispers [to] Lovell, who goes to the Cardinal.
    Heaven forgive me,
    Ever God bless your highness.
    King Henry
    Good my lord,
    2005You are full of heavenly stuff and bear the inventory
    Of your best graces in your mind, the which
    You were now running o'er. You have scarce time
    To steal from spiritual leisure, a brief span
    To keep your earthly audit, sure in that
    2010I deem you an ill husband and am galled
    To have you therein my companion.
    Sir,
    For holy offices I have a time; a time
    To think upon the part of business which
    2015I bear i'th'state; and nature does require
    Her times of preservation, which perforce
    I, her frail son, amongst my brethren mortal,
    Must give my 'tendance to.
    King Henry
    You have said well.
    And ever may your highness yoke together,
    (As I will lend you cause), my doing well
    With my well saying.
    King Henry
    'Tis well said again,
    And 'tis a kind of good deed to say well;
    2025And yet words are no deeds. My father loved you;
    He said he did, and with his deed did crown
    His word upon you. Since I had my office
    I have kept you next my heart, have not alone
    Employed you where high profits might come home,
    2030But pared my present havings to bestow
    My bounties upon you.
    What should this mean?
    The lord increase this business.
    King Henry
    Have I not made you
    2035The prime man of the state? I pray you tell me,
    If what I now pronounce you have found true,
    And if you may confess it, say withal
    If you are bound to us or no. What say you?
    My sovereign, I confess your royal graces,
    2040Showered on me daily, have been more than could
    My studied purposes requite, which went
    Beyond all man's endeavors. My endeavors
    Have ever come too short of my desires,
    Yet filled with my abilities. Mine own ends
    2045Have been mine so, that evermore they pointed
    To'th'good of your most sacred person and
    The profit of the state. For your great graces
    Heaped upon me (poor undeserver), I
    Can nothing render but allegiant thanks,
    2050My prayers to heaven for you; my loyalty
    Which ever has and ever shall be growing
    Till death (that winter), kill it.
    King Henry
    Fairly answered.
    A loyal and obedient subject is
    2055Therein illustrated; the honor of it
    Does pay the act of it, as i'th'contrary
    The foulness is the punishment. I presume
    That as my hand has opened bounty to you,
    My heart dropped love, my power rained honor, more
    2060On you than any. So your hand and heart,
    YYour brain and every function of your power,
    Should, notwithstanding that your bond of duty
    As 'twer in love's particular, be more
    To me your friend than any.
    I do profess
    That for your highness' good I ever labored
    More then mine own; that am, have, and will be
    (Though all the world should cracke their duty to you,
    And throw it from their soul, though perils did
    2070Abound, as thick as thought could make 'em, and
    Appear in forms more horrid) yet my duty,
    As doth a rock against the chiding flood,
    Should the approach of this wild river break
    And stand unshaken yours.
    2075King Henry
    'Tis nobly spoken.
    Take notice, lords, he has a loyal breast,
    For you have seen him open't. Read o'er this,
    And after this, and then to breakfast with
    What appetite you have.
    2080Exit King, frowning upon the Cardinal, the Nobles throng after him, smiling and whispering.
    What should this mean?
    What sudden anger's this? How have I reaped it?
    He parted frowning from me, as if ruin
    2085Leaped from his eyes. So looks the chafed lion
    Upon the daring huntsman that has galled him;
    Then makes him nothing. I must read this paper;
    I fear the story of his anger. 'Tis so:
    This paper ha's undone me: 'Tis th'account
    2090Of all that world of wealth I have drawn together
    For mine own ends, (indeed to gain the popedom,
    And fee my friends in Rome). O, negligence!
    Fit for a fool to fall by! What cross devil
    Made me put this main secret in the packet
    2095I sent the king? Is there no way to cure this?
    No new device to beat this from his brains?
    I know 'twill stir him strongly; yet I know
    A way, if it take right, in spite of fortune
    Will bring me off again. What's this? To th'pope?
    2100The letter (as I live) with all the business
    I writ to's holiness. Nay then, farewell.
    I have touched the highest point of all my greatness,
    And from that full meridian of my glory
    I haste now to my setting. I shall fall
    2105Like a bright exhalation in the evening,
    And no man see me more.
    Enter to Wolsey the Dukes of Norfolk and Suffolk, the Earl of Surrey, and the Lord Chamberlain.
    Norfolk
    Hear the king's pleasure, cardinal,
    2110Who commands you
    To render up the great seal presently
    Into our hands, and to confine yourself
    To Asher house, my lord of Winchester's,
    Till you hear further from his highness.
    Stay.
    WWhere's your commission? Lords, words cannot carry
    Authority so weighty.
    Suffolk
    Who dare cross 'em,
    Bearing the king's will from his mouth expressly?
    Till I finde more then will, or words to do it,
    (I mean your malice), know officious lords,
    I dare and must deny it. Now I feel
    Of what coarse metal ye are molded. Envy,
    How eagerly ye follow my disgraces
    2125As if it fed ye, and how sleek and wanton
    Ye appear in everything may bring my ruin?
    Follow your envious courses, men of malice;
    You have Christian warrant for 'em, and no doubt
    In time will find their fit rewards. That seal
    2130You ask with such a violence, the king
    (Mine and your master), with his own hand gave me,
    Bade me enjoy it with the place and honors
    During my life, and to confirm his goodness
    Tied it by letters patents. Now, who'll take it?
    The king that gave it.
    It must be himself, then.
    Thou art a proud traitor, priest.
    Proud lord, thou liest.
    Within these forty hours, Surrey, durst better
    2140Have burnt that tongue than said so.
    Thy ambition
    (Thou scarlet sin), robbed this bewailing land
    Of noble Buckingham, my father-in-law;
    The heads of all thy brother-cardinals,
    2145(With thee, and all thy best parts bound together),
    Weighed not a hair of his. Plague of your policy,
    You sent me deputy for Ireland,
    Far from his succor; from the king, from all
    That might have mercy on the fault, thou gav'st him,
    2150Whilst your great goodness, out of holy pity,
    Absolu'd him with an axe.
    This and all else,
    This talking lord can lay upon my credit,
    I answer is most false. The duke by law
    2155Found his deserts. How innocent I was
    From any private malice in his end,
    His noble jury and foul cause can witness.
    If I loved many words, lord, I should tell you
    You have as little honesty as honor,
    2160That in the way of loyalty and truth
    Toward the king, my ever royal master,
    Dare mate a sounder man then Surrey can be,
    And all that love his follies.
    By my soul
    2165Your long coat, priest, protects you.
    Thou should'st feel
    My sword i'th'life blood of thee else. My lords,
    Can ye endure to hear this arrogance?
    And from this fellow? If we live thus tamely
    2170To be thus jaded by a piece of scarlet,
    Farewell nobility; let his grace go forward,
    And dare us with his cap like larks.
    All goodness
    Is poison to thy stomach.
    Yes, that goodness
    Of gleaning all the land's wealth into one,
    Into your own hands, cardinal, by extortion;
    The goodness of your intercepted packets
    You writ to'th pope against the king; your goodness,
    2180Since you provoke me, shall be most notorious.
    My lord of Norfolk, as you are truly noble,
    As you respect the common good, the state
    Of our despised nobility, our issues,
    (Whom, if he live, will scarce be gentlemen),
    2185Produce the grand sum of his sins, the articles
    Collected from his life. I'll startle you
    Worse then the sacring bell when the brown wench
    LLay kissing in your arms, lord cardinal.
    How much, methinks, I could despise this man
    2190But that I am bound in charity against it.
    Norfolk
    Those articles, my lord, are in the king's hand;
    But thus much, they are foul ones.
    So much fairer
    And spotless shall mine innocence arise
    2195When the king knows my truth.
    This cannot saue you.
    I thank my memory I yet remember
    Some of these articles, and out they shall.
    Now, if you can blush and cry guilty, cardinal,
    2200You'l show a little honesty.
    Speak on, sir;
    I dare your worst objections. If I blush
    It is to see a nobleman want manners.
    I had rather want those than my head;
    2205Have at you.
    First, that without the king's assent or knowledge,
    You wrought to be a legate, by which power
    You maimed the jurisdiction of all bishops.
    Norfolk
    Then, that in all you writ to Rome, or else
    2210To foreign princes, ego and rex meus
    Was still inscribed, in which you brought the king
    To be your servant.
    Suffolk
    Then, that without the knowledge
    Either of king or council, when you went
    2215Ambassador to the emperor, you made bold
    To carry into Flanders the great seal.
    Item: you sent a large commission
    To Gregory de Cassado to conclude,
    Without the king's will or the state's allowance,
    2220A league between his highness and Ferrara.
    Suffolk
    That out of mere ambition you have caused
    Your holy hat to be stamped on the king's coin.
    Then, that you have sent innumerable substance,
    (By what means got, I leave to your own conscience),
    2225To furnish Rome and to prepare the ways
    You have for dignities, to the mere undoing
    Of all the kingdom. Many more there are
    Which,since they are of you and odious,
    I will not taint my mouth with.
    2230Chamberlain
    O, my lord,
    Press not a falling man too far! 'tis virtue;
    His faults lie open to the laws. Let them,
    Not you, correct him. My heart weeps to see him
    So little, of his great self.
    I forgive him.
    Suffolk
    Lord cardinal, the king's further pleasure is,
    Because all those things you have done of late
    By your power legislative within this kingdom,
    Fall into th' compass of a premunire;
    2240That therefore such a writ be sued against you
    To forfeit all your goods, lands, tenements,
    Castles, and whatsoever, and to be
    Out of the king's protection. This is my charge.
    Norfolk
    And so we'll leave you to your meditations
    2245HHow to live better. For your stubborn answer
    About the giving back the great seal to us,
    The king shall know it and, no doubt, shall thank you.
    So fare you well, my little good Lord cardinal.
    Exeunt all but Wolsey.
    So farewell to the little good you bear me.
    Farewell? A long farewell to all my greatness.
    This is the state of man; today he puts forth
    The tender leaves of hopes, tomorrow blossoms,
    And bears his blushing honors thick upon him.
    2255The third day comes a frost, a killing frost,
    And when he thinks, good easy man, full surely
    His greatness is a ripening, nips his root,
    And then he falls as I do. I have ventured
    Like little wanton boys that swim on bladders.
    2260This many summers in a sea of glory
    But far beyond my depth. My high-blown pride
    At length broke under me and now has left me
    Weary and old with service to the mercy
    Of a rude stream that must forever hide me.
    2265Vain pomp and glory of this world I hate ye,
    I feel my heart new opened. Oh how wretched
    Is that poor man that hangs on princes' favors?
    There is, betwixt that smile we would aspire to,
    That sweet aspect of princes and their ruin,
    2270More pangs and fears than wars or women have;
    And when he falls, he falls like Lucifer,
    Never to hope again.
    Enter Cromwell, standing amazed.
    Why, how now Cromwell?
    2275Cromwell
    I have no power to speak, sir.
    What, amazed
    At my misfortunes? Can thy spirit wonder
    A great man should decline? Nay, and you weep
    I am fallen indeed.
    2280Cromwell
    How does your grace.
    Why, well.
    Never so truly happy, my good Cromwell;
    I know myself now, and I feel within me
    A peace above all earthly dignities,
    2285A still and quiet conscience. The king has cured me.
    I humbly thank his grace, and from these shoulders,
    These ruined pillars, out of pity taken
    A load would sink a navy, too much honor.
    O 'tis a burden, Cromwell; 'tis a burden
    2290Too heavy for a man that hopes for heaven.
    Cromwell
    I am glad your grace
    Has made that right use of it.
    I hope I have.
    I am able now, methinks,
    2295(Out of a fortitude of soul, I feel),
    To endure more miseries, and greater far
    Than my weak-hearted enemies dare offer.
    What news abroad?
    Comwell
    The heaviest and the worst
    2300Is your displeasure with the king.
    God bless him.
    Cromwell
    The next is that Sir Thomas More is chosen
    Lord Chancellor in your place.
    That's somewhat sudden,
    2305But he's a learned man. May he continue
    Long in his highness's favor, and do justice
    For truth's sake and his conscience; that his bones,
    When he has run his course and sleeps in blessings,
    May have a tomb of orphans' tears wept on him.
    2310What more?
    Cromwell
    That Cranmer is returned with welcome;
    Installed Lord Archbishop of Canterbury.
    That's news, indeed.
    Comwell
    Last, that the lady Anne,
    2315Whom the king hath in secrecy long married,
    This day was viewed in open, as his queen,
    Going to chapel; and the voice is now
    Only about her coronation.
    There was the weight that pulled me down.
    2320O, Cromwell,
    The king has gone beyond me: All my glories
    In that one woman I have lost forever.
    No sun shall ever usher forth mine honors,
    Or gild again the noble troops that waited
    2325Upon my smiles. Go, get thee from me, Cromwell;
    I am a poor fall'n man, unworthy now
    To be thy lord and master. Seek the king
    (That sun I pray may never set), I have told him
    What and how true thou art. He will advance thee.
    2330Some little memory of me will stir him
    (I know his Noble Nature) not to let
    Thy hopeful service perish, too. Good Cromwell,
    Neglect him not; make use now, and provide
    For thine own future safety.
    2335Cromwell
    O, my lord,
    Must I then leave you? Must I needs forego
    So good, so noble, and so true a master?
    Bear witness, all that have not hearts of iron,
    With what a sorrow Cromwell leaves his lord.
    2340The King shall have my service, but my prayers
    Forever and forever shall be yours.
    Cromwell, I did not think to shed a tear
    In all my miseries, but thou hast forced me
    (Out of thy honest truth), to play the woman.
    2345Let's dry our eyes. And thus far hear me, Cromwell,
    And when I am forgotten, as I shall be,
    And sleep in dull cold marble, where no mention
    Of me more must be heard of; say I taught thee;
    Say Wolsey, that once trod the ways of glory,
    2350And sounded all the depths and shoals of honor,
    Found thee a way (out of his wreck), to rise in;
    A sure and safe one, though thy master missed it.
    Mark but my fall and that that ruined me.
    Cromwell, I charge thee: fling away ambition;
    2355By that sin fell the angels. How can man then
    (The image of his maker), hope to win by it?
    Love thyself last; cherish those hearts that hate thee.
    Corruption wins not more then honesty.
    Still, in thy right hand carry gentle peace
    2360To silence envious tongues. Be just and fear not;
    Let all the ends thou aimest at be thy countries,
    Thy gods, and truths. Then if thou fallest, O Cromwell,
    Thou fallest a blessed martyr.
    Serve the king; and prithee, lead me in.
    2365There take an inventory of all I have:
    To the last penny 'tis the king's. My robe,
    And my integrity to heaven is all
    I dare now call mine own. O Cromwell, Cromwell;
    Had I but served my God with half the zeal
    2370I served my king he would not, in mine age,
    Have left me naked to mine enemies.
    Cromwell
    Good sir, have patience.
    So I have. Farewell
    The hopes of court; my hopes in heaven do dwell.
    Enter two Gentlemen, meeting one another.
    1 Gentleman
    Y'are well met once again.
    2 Gentleman
    So are you.
    23801 Gentleman
    You come to take your stand here and behold
    The lady Anne pass from her coronation.
    2 Gentleman
    'Tis all my business. At our last encounter
    The Duke of Buckingham came from his trial.
    2 Gentleman
    'Tis very true. But that time offered sorrow;
    2385This, general joy.
    2 Gentleman
    'Tis well. The citizens,
    I am sure, have shown at full their royal minds
    As let 'em have their rights; they are ever forward
    In celebration of this day with shows,
    2390Pageants, and sights of honor.
    1 Gentleman
    Never greater,
    Nor I'll assure you better taken, sir.
    2 Gentleman
    May I be bold to ask what that contains,
    That Paper in your hand.
    23951 Gentleman
    Yes, 'tis the list
    Of those that claim their offices this day,
    By custom of the coronation.
    The Duke of Suffolk is the first, and claims
    To be High Steward; next the Duke of Norfolk,
    2400He to be Earl Marshal. You may read the rest.
    2 Gentleman
    I thank you, sir. Had I not known those customs,
    I should have been beholding to your paper;
    But I beseech you, what's become of Katherine
    The Princess Dowager? How goes her business?
    24051 Gentleman
    That I can tell you, too. The Archbishop
    Of Canterbury, accompanied with other
    Learned and reverend fathers of his order,
    Held a late court at Dunstable, six miles off
    From Ampthill, where the princess lay, to which
    2410She was often sighted by them but appeared not.
    And to be short, for not appearance and
    The king's late scruple, by the main assent
    Of all these learned men she was divorced,
    And the late marriage made of none effect;
    2415Since which, she was removed to Kimbolton,
    Where she remains now sick.
    2 Gentleman
    Alas, good lady.
    The trumpets sound; stand close,
    The queen is coming.
    Hautboys.
    2420The Order of the Coronation:
    1 A lively flourish of trumpets.
    2 Then, two Judges.
    3 Lord Chancellor, with Purse and Mace before him.
    4 Choristers singing. Music.
    24255 Mayor of London, bearing the Mace. Then Garter, in his Coat of Arms, and on his head he wore a Gilt Copper Crowne.
    6 Marquess Dorset, bearing a Scepter of Gold, on his head, a Demy Coronall of Gold. With him, the Earle of Surrey, 2430bearing the Rod of Siluer with the Doue, Crowned with an Earles Coronet. Collars of Esses.
    7 Duke of Suffolk, in his Robe of Estate, his Coronet on his head, bearing a long white Wand, as High Steward. With him, the Duke of Norfolk, with the Rod of Marshalship, 2435a Coronet on his head. Collars of Esses.
    8 A Canopy, borne by foure of the Cinque-Ports, under it the Queen in her Robe, in her hair, richly adorned with Pearl, Crowned. On each side her, the Bishops of London, and Winchester.
    24409 The Old Duchess of Norfolk, in a Coronall of Gold, wrought with Flowers bearing the Queen's Train.
    10 Certain Ladies or Countesses, with plain Circlets of Gold, without Flowers.
    Exeunt, first passing over the Stage in Order and State, and 2445then, a great Flourish of Trumpets.
    2 Gentleman
    A Royal Train believe me! These I know:
    Who's that that bears the scepter?
    1 Gentleman
    Marquess Dorset,
    And that the Earl of Surrey with the rod.
    24502 Gentleman
    A bold brave gentleman. That should be
    The duke of Suffolk.
    1 Gentleman
    'Tis the same: high steward.
    2 Gentleman
    And that my lord of Norfolk?
    1 Gentleman
    Yes.
    24552 Gentleman
    Heaven bless thee,
    Thou hast the sweetest face I ever looked on.
    Sir, as I have a soul, she is an angel;
    Our king has all the Indies in his arms,
    And more, and richer, when he strains that lady.
    2460I cannot blame his conscience.
    1 Gentleman
    They that bear
    The cloth of honor over her are four barons
    Of the Cinque-Ports.
    2 Gentleman
    Those men are happy.
    2465And so are all, are near her.
    I take it she that carries up the train
    Is that old noble lady, duchess of Norfolk
    1 Gentleman
    It is, and all the rest are countesses.
    2 Gentleman
    Their coronets say so. These are stars indeed,
    2470And sometimes falling ones.
    2 Gentleman
    No more of that.
    Enter a third Gentleman.
    1 Gentleman
    God save you, sir. Where have you been broiling?
    3 Gentleman
    Among the crowd i'th'Abbey, where a finger
    2475Could not be wedged in more. I am stifled
    With the mere rankness of their joy.
    2 Gentleman
    You saw the ceremony?
    3 Gentleman
    That I did.
    1 Gentleman
    How was it?
    24803 Gentleman
    Well worth the seeing.
    2 Gentleman
    Good sir, speak it to us.
    3 Gentleman
    As well as I am able. The rich stream
    Of lords and ladies, having brought the queen
    To a prepared place in the choir, fell off
    2485A distance from her, while her grace sat down
    To rest a while, some half an hour or so,
    In a rich chair of state, opposing freely
    The beauty of her person to the people.
    Believe me, sir, she is the goodliest woman
    2490That ever lay by man; which, when the people
    Had the full view of, such a noise arose
    As the shrouds make at sea in a stiff tempest,
    As loud and to as many tunes. Hats, cloaks,
    (Doublets, I think) flew up, and had their faces
    2495Been loose this day they had been lost. Such joy
    I never saw before. Great bellied women,
    That had not half a week to go, like rams
    In the old time of war would shake the press
    And make 'em reel before 'em. No man living
    2500Could say: this is my wife there; all were woven
    So strangely in one piece.
    2 Gentleman
    But what followed?
    3 Gentleman
    At length her grace rose, and with modest paces
    Came to the altar, where she kneeled, and saint-like
    2505Cast her fair eyes to heaven and prayed devoutly.
    Then rose again and bowed her to the people.
    When, by the Archbishop of Canterbury,
    She had all the royal makings of a queen:
    As holy oil, Edward Confessor's crown,
    2510The rod, and bird of peace, and all such emblems
    Laid nobly on her; which performed, the choir
    With all the choicest music of the kingdom
    Together sung Te Deum. So she parted,
    And with the same full state paced back again
    2515To York Place, where the feast is held.
    1 Gentleman
    Sir,
    You must no more call it York Place. That's past.
    For since the cardinal fell, that title's lost.
    'Tis now the king's, and called Whitehall.
    25203 Gentleman
    I know it,
    But 'tis so lately altered that the old name
    Is fresh about me.
    2 Gentleman
    What two reverend bishops
    Were those that went on each side of the queen?
    25253 Gentleman
    Stokeley and Gardiner, the one of Winchester,
    Newly preferred from the king's secretary;
    The other London.
    2 Gentleman
    He of Winchester
    Is held no great good lover of the archbishops:
    2530The virtuous Cranmer.
    3 Gentleman
    All the land knows that.
    However, yet there is no great breach, when it comes
    Cranmer will find a friend will not shrink from him.
    2 Gentleman
    Who may that be, I pray you?
    25353 Gentleman
    Thomas Cromwell,
    A man in much esteem with th'king, and truly
    A worthy friend. The king has made him
    Master o'th'Jewel House,
    And one already of the Privy Council.
    25402 Gentleman
    He will deserve more.
    3 Gentleman
    Yes, without all doubt.
    Come, gentlemen, ye shall go my way,
    Which is to'th court, and there ye shall be my guests:
    Something I can command. As I walk thither
    2545I'll tell ye more.
    You may command us, sir.
    Exeunt.
    Enter Katherine Dowager, sick, lead between Griffith,
    her gentleman usher, and Patience
    2550her Woman.
    Griffith
    How does your grace?
    Katharine
    O Griffith, sick to death.
    My legs like loaden branches bow to'th'earth,
    Willing to leave their burthen. Reach a chair.
    2555So now, methinks, I feel a little ease.
    Did'st thou not tell me, Griffith, as thou lead'st me,
    That the great child of honor, Cardinal Wolsey,
    Was dead?
    Griffith
    Yes, madam, but I thank your grace,
    2560Out of the pain you suffered, gave no ear to't.
    Katharine
    Prithee good Griffith, tell me how he died.
    If well, he stepped before me happily
    For my example.
    Griffith
    Well, the voice goes, Madam,
    2565For after the stout Earl Northumberland
    Arrested him at York and brought him forward
    As a man sorely tainted to his answer,
    He fell sick suddenly and grew so ill
    He could not sit his mule.
    2570Katharine
    Alas, poor man.
    Griffith
    At last, with easy roads he came to Leicester,
    Lodged in the abbey, where the reverend abbot,
    With all his covent, honorably received him.
    To whom he gave these words: "O father Abbot,
    2575An old man, broken with the storms of state,
    Is come to lay his weary bones among ye.
    Give him a little earth for charity."
    So went to bed, where eagerly his sickness
    Pursued him still, and three nights after this,
    2580About the hour of eight (which he himself
    Foretold should be his last, full of Repentance,
    Continual meditations, tears, and sorrows,
    He gaue his honors to the world again,
    His blessed part to heaven, and slept in peace.
    2585Katharine
    So may he rest;
    His faults lie gently on him.
    Yet thus far, Griffith, give me leave to speak him
    And yet with charity. He was a man
    Of an unbounded stomach, ever ranking
    2590Himself with princes. One that, by suggestion,
    Tied all the kingdom. Symony was fair play;
    His own opinion was his law. I'th'presence
    He would say untruths and be ever double,
    Both in his words and meaning. He was never
    2595(But where he meant to ruin) pitiful.
    His promises were, as he then was, mighty.
    But his performance, as he is now, nothing.
    Of his own body he was ill and gave
    The clergy ill example.
    2600Griffith
    Noble Madam:
    Mens evil manners live in brass, their virtues
    We write in water. May it please your highness
    To hear me speake his good now?
    Katharine
    Yes, good Griffith:
    2605I were malicious else.
    Griffith
    This cardinal,
    Though from an humble stock, undoubtedly
    Was fashioned to much honor. From his cradle
    He was a scholar, and a ripe and good one:
    2610Exceeding wise, fair spoken, and persuading;
    Lofty and sour to them that loved him not,
    But to those men that sought him, sweet as summer.
    And though he were unsatisfied in getting
    (Which was a sin), yet in bestowing, madam,
    2615He was most princely. Ever witness for him
    Those twins of learning that he raised in you,
    Ipswich and Oxford, one of which fell with him,
    Unwilling to out live the good that did it.
    The other (though unfinished), yet so famous,
    2620So excellent in art, and still so rising
    That Christendom shall ever speak his virtue.
    His overthrow heaped happiness upon him.
    For then, and not till then, he felt himself
    And found the blessedness of being little.
    2625And to add greater honors to his age
    Than man could give him he died fearing God.
    Katharine
    After my death I wish no other herald,
    No other speaker of my living actions,
    To keep mine honor from corruption,
    2630But such an honest chronicler as Griffith.
    Whom I most hated living, thou hast made me
    With thy religious truth and modesty
    (Now in his Ashes), honor. Peace be with him.
    Patience, be near me still, and set me lower.
    2635I have not long to trouble thee. Good Griffith,
    Cause the musicians play me that sad note
    I named my knell, whilst I sit meditating
    On that celestial harmony I go to.
    Sad and solemn music.
    2640Griffith
    She is asleep. Good wench, let's sit down quiet,
    For fear we wake her. Softly, gentle Patience.
    The vision.
    Enter solemnly tripping one after another, six personages, clad in white robes, wearing on their heads garlands of 2645bay, and golden vizards on their faces, branches of bay or palm in their hands. They first conge unto her, then dance and at certain changes, the first two hold a spare garland over her head, at which the other four make reverend curtsies. Then the two that held the garland 2650deliver the same to the other next two, who observe the same order in their changes, and holding the garland over her
    head. Which done, they deliver the same garland to the last two, who likewise observe the same order. At which (as it were by inspiration), she makes (in her sleep), signs of 2655rejoicing, and holdeth up her hands to heaven. And so in their dancing vanish, carrying the garland with them. The music continues.
    Katharine
    Spirits of peace, where are ye? Are ye all gone
    And leave me here in wretchedness behind ye?
    2660Griffith
    Madam, we are here.
    Katharine
    It is not you I call for,
    Saw ye none enter since I slept?
    Griffith
    None, madam.
    Katharine
    No? Saw you not even now a blessed troupe
    2665Invite me to a banquet, whose bright faces
    Cast thousand beams upon me like the sun?
    They promised me eternal happiness,
    And brought me garlands, Griffith, which I feel
    I am not worthy yet to weare: I shall assuredly.
    2670Griffith
    I am most joyful, madam, such good dreams
    Possess your fancy.
    Katharine
    Bid the music leave.
    They are harsh and heavy to me.
    Music ceases.
    Patience
    Do you note
    2675How much her grace is altered on the sudden?
    How long her face is drawn; how pale she looks,
    And of an earthy cold. Mark her eyes.
    Griffith
    She is going, wench. Pray, pray.
    Patience
    Hea en comfort her.
    2680Enter a Messenger.
    Messenger
    And't like your grace ...
    Katharine
    You are a saucy fellow.
    Deserve we no more reverence?
    Griffith
    You are too blame,
    2685Knowing she will not lose her wonted greatness,
    To use so rude behavior. Go to, kneel.
    Messenger
    I humbly do entreat your highness's pardon.
    My haste made me unmannerly. There is staying
    A gentleman sent from the king to see you.
    2690Katharine
    Admit him entrance, Griffith. But this fellow
    Let me ne'er see again.
    Exit Messenger.
    Enter Lord Capuchius.
    If my sight fail not,
    You should be lord ambassador from the emperor
    2695My royal nephew, and your name Capuchius.
    Capuchius
    Madam, the same. Your servant.
    Katharine
    O, my lord,
    The times and titles now are altered strangely
    With me since first you knew me.
    2700But I pray you,
    What is your pleasure with me?
    Capuchius
    Noble lady,
    First mine own service to your grace; the next
    The king's request, that I would visit you,
    2705Who grieves much for your weakness, and by me
    Sends you his princely commendations,
    And heartily entreats you take good comfort.
    Katharine
    O my good lord, that comfort comes too late.
    'Tis like a pardon after execution.
    2710That gentle physic, given in time, had cured me.
    But now I am past all comforts here but prayers.
    How does his highness?
    Capuchius
    Madam, in good health.
    Katharine
    So may he ever do, and ever flourish
    2715When I shall dwell with worm and my poor name
    Banished the kingdom. Patience, is that letter
    I caused you write yet sent away?
    Patience
    No, madam.
    Katharine
    Sir, I most humbly pray you to deliver
    2720This to my lord the king.
    Capuchius
    Most willing, madam.
    Katharine
    In which I have commended to his goodness
    The model of our chaste loves: his young daughter.
    The dews of heaven fall thick in blessings on her,
    2725Beseeching him to give her virtuous breeding.
    She is young and of a noble modest nature.
    I hope she will deserve well, and a little
    To love her for her mother's sake, that loved him,
    Heaven knows how dearly.
    2730My next poor petition
    Is that his noble grace would have some pity
    Upon my wretched women, that so long
    Have followed both my fortunes faithfully,
    Of which there is not one I dare avow
    2735(And now I should not lie), but will deserve
    For virtue and true beauty of the soul,
    For honesty and decent carriage,
    A right good husband. Let him be a noble,
    And sure those men are happy that shall have 'em.
    2740The last is for my men: they are the poorest
    (But poverty could never draw 'em from me),
    That they may have their wages duly paid 'em,
    And something over to remember me by.
    If Heaven had pleased to have given me longer life
    2745And able means we had not parted thus.
    These are the whole contents and good my lord,
    By that you love the dearest in this world,
    As you wish Christian peace to souls departed,
    Stand these poor peoples' friend and urge the king
    2750To do me this last right.
    Capuchius
    By heaven I will,
    Or let me lose the fashion of a man.
    Katharine
    I thank you, honest lord. Remember me
    In all humility unto his highness.
    2755Say his long trouble now is passing
    Out of this world. Tell him in death I blessed him,
    For so I will. Mine eyes grow dim. Farewell,
    My lord. Griffith, farewell. Nay, Patience,
    You must not leave me yet. I must to bed.
    2760Call in more women. When I am dead, good wench,
    Let me be used with honor. Strew me over
    With maiden flowers, that all the world may know
    I was a chaste wife to my grave. Embalm me
    Then lay me forth, although unqueened, yet like
    2765A queen and daughter to a king inter me.
    I can no more.
    Exeunt leading Katherine.
    Enter Gardiner Bishop of Winchester, a Page with a Torch 2770before him, met by Sir Thomas Lovell.
    Gardiner
    It's one a'clock boy, is't not.
    It hath struck.
    Gardiner
    These should be hours for necessities,
    Not for delights. Times to repair our nature
    2775With comforting repose, and not for us
    To waste these times. Good hour of night, Sir Thomas:
    Whither so late?
    Lovell
    Came you from the king, my lord?
    Gardiner
    I did, Sir Thomas, and left him at primero
    2780With the Duke of Suffolk.
    Lovell
    I must to him, too,
    Before he go to bed. I'll take my leave.
    Gardiner
    Not yet, Sir Thomas Lovell. What's the matter?
    It seems you are in haste, and if there be
    2785No great offence belongs to't, give your friend
    Some touch of your late businesse. Affairs that walk,
    (As they say spirits do) at midnight, have
    In them a wilder nature than the business
    That seeks dispatch by day.
    2790Lovell
    My lord, I love you
    And durst commend a secret to your ear
    Much weightier than this work. The queen's in labor:
    They say in great extremity, and feared
    She'll with the labor end.
    2795Gardiner
    The fruit she goes with
    I pray for heartily, that it may find
    Good time and live; but for the stock, Sir Thomas,
    I wish it grubbed up now.
    Lovell
    Methinks I could
    2800Cry thee amen, and yet my conscience says
    She's a good creature, and sweet lady does
    Deserve our better wishes.
    Gardiner
    But sir, sir:
    Hear me Sir Thomas, y'are a gentleman
    2805Of mine own way. I know you wise, religious,
    And let me tell you it will ne'er be well:
    'Twill not, Sir Thomas Lovell, take't of me,
    Till Cranmer, Cromwell, her two hands, and she
    Sleep in their graves.
    2810Lovell
    Now sir, you speak of two
    The most remarked i'th'kingdom. As for Cromwell,
    Beside that of the Jewel House, is made Master
    O'th'Rolls, and the king's Secretary. Further, sir,
    Stands in the gap and trade of more preferments
    2815With which the lime will load him. Th'archbishop
    Is the king's hand and tongue, and who dare speak
    One syllable against him?
    Gardiner
    Yes, yes, Sir Thomas.
    There are that dare, and I myself have ventured
    2820To speak my mind of him; and indeed this day
    Sir (I may tell it you), I think I have
    Incensed the lords o'th'council, that he is
    (For so I know he is, they know he is),
    A most arch-heretic, a pestilence
    2825That does infect the land, with which they moved
    Have broken with the king who hath so far
    Given ear to our complaint of his great grace
    And princely care, foreseeing those fell mischiefs,
    Our reasons laid before him, hath commanded
    2830Tomorrow morning to the council board
    He be convented. He's a rank weed, Sir Thomas,
    And we must root him out. From your affairs
    I hinder you too long. Good night, Sir Thomas.
    Exit Gardiner and Page.
    2835Lovell
    Many good nights, my lord, I rest your servant.
    Enter King and Suffolk.
    King Henry
    Charles, I will play no more tonight.
    My mind's not on't; you are too hard for me.
    Suffolk
    Sir, I did never win of you before.
    2840King Henry
    But little, Charles,
    Nor shall not when my fancy's on my play.
    Now Lovell, from the queen what is the news.
    Lovell
    I could not personally deliver to her
    What you commanded me, but by her woman
    2845I sent your message, who returned her thanks
    In the great'st humbleness, and desired your highness
    Most heartily to pray for her.
    King Henry
    What say'st thou, ha?
    To pray for her? What, is she crying out?
    2850Lovell
    So said her woman, and that her suffrance made
    Almost each pang a death.
    King Henry
    Alas, good Lady.
    Suffolk
    God safely quit her of her burthen, and
    With gentle travail, to the gladding of
    2855Your highness with an heir.
    King Henry
    'Tis midnight, Charles.
    Prithee to bed, and in thy prayers remember
    Th'estate of my poor queen. Leave me alone,
    For I must think of that which company
    2860Would not be friendly to.
    Suffolk
    I wish your highness
    A quiet night and my good mistress will
    Remember in my prayers.
    King Henry
    Charles, good night.
    Exit Suffolk.
    2865Well sir, what follows?
    Enter Sir Anthony Denny.
    Sir, I have brought my lord the archbishop
    As you commanded me.
    King Henry
    Ha? Canterbury?
    Aye, my good lord.
    King Henry
    'Tis true. Where is he Denny?
    He attends your highness' pleasure.
    King Henry
    Bring him to us.
    This is about that which the bishop spake,
    2875I am happily come hither.
    Enter Cranmer and Denny.
    King Henry
    Avoid the gallery.
    Lovell seems to stay.
    Ha? I have said. Be gone.
    What?
    Exeunt Lovell and Denny.
    2880Cranmer
    I am fearful. Wherefore frowns he thus?
    'Tis his aspect of terror. All's not well.
    King Henry
    How now,my lord?
    You do desire to know wherefore
    I sent for you.
    2885Cranmer
    It is my duty
    T'attend your highness' pleasure.
    King Henry
    Pray you arise,
    My good and gracious lord of Canterbury.
    Come, you and I must walk a turn together;
    2890I have news to tell you.
    Come, come, give me your hand.
    Ah my good lord, I grieve at what I speak,
    And am right sorry to repeat what follows.
    I have, and most unwillingly, of late
    2895Heard many grievous - I do say, my lord
    Grievous complaints of you, which being considered,
    Have moved us and our council, that you shall
    This morning come before us, where I know
    You cannot with such freedom purge yourself,
    2900But that till further trial, in those charges
    Which will require your answer, you must take
    Your patience to you and be well contented
    To make your house our Tower. You, a brother of us,
    It fits we thus proceed, or else no witness
    2905Would come against you.
    Cranmer
    I humbly thank your highness,
    And am right glad to catch this good occasion
    Most throughly to be winnowed, where my chaff
    And corn shall fly asunder. For I know
    2910There's none stands under more calumnious tongues,
    Than I myself, poor man.
    King Henry
    Stand up, good Canterbury,
    Thy truth and thy integrity is rooted
    In us thy friend. Give me thy hand, stand up.
    2915Prithee, let's walk. Now by my holydame,
    What manner of man are you? My lord, I looked
    You would have given me your petition, that
    I should have ta'en some pains to bring together
    Yourself and your accusers, and to have heard you
    2920Without endurance further.
    Cranmer
    Most dread liege,
    The good I stand on is my truth and honesty.
    If they shall fail, aye with mine enemies
    Will triumph o'er my person, which I weigh not,
    2925Being of those virtues vacant. I fear nothing
    What can be said against me.
    King Henry
    Know you not
    How your state stands i'th'world, with the whole world?
    Your enemies are many and not small; their practices
    2930Must bear the same proportion and not ever
    The justice and the truth o'th'question carries
    The dew o'th'verdict with it. At what ease
    Might corrupt minds procure knaves as corrupt
    To swear against you? Such things have been done.
    2935You are potently opposed, and with a malice
    Of as great size. Ween you of better luck,
    I mean in perjured witness, then your master,
    Whose minister you are while here he lived
    Upon this naughty earth. Go to, go to,
    2940You take a precepit for no leap of danger,
    And woe your own destruction.
    Cranmer
    God and your majesty
    Protect mine innocence, or I fall into
    The trap is laid for me.
    2945King Henry
    Be of good cheer.
    They shall no more prevail than we give way to.
    Keep comfort to you, and this morning see
    You do appear before them. If they shall chance
    In charging you with matters to commit you,
    2950The best persuasions to the contrary
    Fail not to use, and with what vehemency
    Th'occasion shall instruct you. If entreaties
    Will render you no remedy, this ring
    Deliver them and your appeal to us
    2955There make before them. [Aside] Look, the good man weeps.
    He's honest, on mine honor. Gods blessed mother,
    I swear he is true-hearted, and a soul
    None better in my kingdom. [To Cranmer] Get you gone,
    And do as I have bid you.
    Exit Cranmer.
    2960He has strangled his language in his tears.
    Enter Old Lady.
    Come back. What mean you?
    Old Lady
    I'll not come back. The tidings that I bring
    Will make my boldness manners. Now good angels
    2965Fly o'er thy royal head, and shade thy person
    Under their blessed wings.
    King Henry
    Now, by thy looks
    I guess thy message. Is the queen delivered?
    Say aye, and of a boy.
    2970Old Lady
    Aye, aye my liege,
    And of a lovely boy. The god of heaven
    Both now and ever bless her. 'Tis a girl
    Promises boys heereafter. Sir, your queen
    Desires your visitation and to be
    2975Acquainted with this stranger. 'Tis as like you
    As cherry is to cherry.
    King Henry
    Lovell.
    Sir.
    King Henry
    Give her an hundred marks.
    2980I'll to the queen.
    Exit King.
    Old Lady
    An hundred marks? By this light I'll ha' more.
    An ordinary groom is for such payment.
    I will have more, or scold it out of him.
    Said I for this, the girl was like to him? I'll
    2985Have more, or else unsay't: and now, while 'tis hot,
    I'll put it to the issue.
    Exit Lady.
    Enter Cranmer, Archbishop of Canterbury.
    Cranmer
    I hope I am not too late, and yet the gentleman
    2990That was sent to me from the council prayed me
    To make great haste. All fast? What meanes this, ho?
    Who waits there? Sure you know me?
    Enter Keeper.
    Keeper
    Yes, my lord,
    2995But yet I cannot help you.
    Cranmer
    Why?
    Keeper
    Your Grace must wiat till you be callled for.
    Enter Doctor Butts.
    Cranmer
    So.
    This is a peer of malice. I am glad
    I came this way so happily. The king
    Shall understand it presently.
    Exit Butts
    Cranmer
    'Tis Butts,
    The king's physician; as he passed along
    3005How earnestly he cast his eyes upon me.
    Pray heaven he sound not my disgrace, for certain
    This is of purpose laid by some that hate me,
    (God turn their hearts, I never sought their malice),
    To quench mine honor they would shame to make me
    3010Wait else at door: a fellow counselor
    'Mong boys, grooms, and lackeys.
    But their pleasures
    Must be fulfilled, and I attend with patience.
    Enter the King, and Butts, at a window 3015above.
    I'll show your grace the strangest sight.
    King Henry
    What's that, Butts?
    I think your highness saw this many a day.
    King Henry
    Body a me: where is it?
    There, my lord.
    The high promotion of his grace of Canterbury,
    Who holds his state at door 'mongst pursuants,
    Pages and footboys.
    King Henry
    Ha? 'Tis he indeed.
    3025Is this the honor they do one another?
    'Tis well there's one above 'em yet. I had thought
    They had parted so much honesty among 'em,
    At least good manners, as not thus to suffer
    A man of his place, and so near our favor
    3030To dance attendance on their lordships' pleasures.
    And at the door, too, like a post with packets
    By holy Mary, Butts, there's knavery.
    Let 'em alone and draw the curtain close:
    We shall hear more anon.
    3035A council table brought in with chairs and stools, and placed under the state. Enter Lord Chancellor, places himself at the upper end of the table, on the left hand: A seat being left void aboue him, as for Canterbury's seat. Duke of Suffolk, Duke of Norfolk, Surrey, Lord 3040Chamberlain, Gardiner, seat themselves in order on each side. Cromwell at lower end, as Secretary.
    Chancellor
    Speak to the business, master secretary;
    Why are we met in council?
    Cromwell
    Please your honors,
    3045The chief cause concerns his grace of Canterbury.
    Gardiner
    Has he had knowledge of it?
    Comwell
    Yes.
    Norfolk
    Who waits there?
    Keeper
    Without my noble Lords?
    3050Gardiner
    Yes.
    Keeper
    My lord archbishop.
    And has done half an hour to know your pleasures.
    Chancellor
    Let him come in.
    Keeper
    Your grace may enter now.
    3055Cranmer approches the council table.
    Chancellor
    My good lord archbishop, I'm very sorry
    To sit here at this present and behold
    That chair stand empty. But we all are men
    In our own natures frail and capable
    3060Of our flesh; few are angels. Out of which frailty
    And want of wisdom you that best should teach us,
    Have misdemeaned yourself, and not a little:
    Toward the king first, then his laws, in filling
    The whole realm by your teaching & your chaplains
    3065(For so we are informed), with new opinions
    Diverse and dangerous, which are heresies,
    And not reformed may prove pernicious.
    Gardiner
    Which reformation must be sudden, too,
    My noble lords, for those that tame wild horses
    3070Pace 'em not in their hands to make 'em gentle,
    But stop their mouths with stubborn bits &, spur 'em,
    Till they obey the mannage. If we suffer
    Out of our easiness and childish pity
    To one manʼs honor, this contagious sickness,
    3075Farewell all physick. And what follows then?
    Commotions, vapors, with a general taint
    Of the whole state, as of late days our neighbors,
    The upper Germany can dearly witness,
    Yet freshly pitied in our memories..
    3080Cranmer
    My good lords, hitherto, in all the progress
    Both of my life and office, I have labored,
    And with no little study, that my teaching
    And the strong course of my authority
    Might go one way and safely, and the end
    3085Was ever to do well. Mor is there living,
    (I speak it with a single heart, my lords),
    A man that more detests, more stirs against,
    Both in his private conscience and his place,
    Defacers of a public peace than I do.
    3090Pray heaven the king may never find a heart
    With less allegiance in it. Men that make
    Envy and crooked malice nourishment,
    Dare bite the best. I do beseech your lordships
    That in this case of justice my accusers,
    3095Be what they will, may stand forth face to face
    And freely urge against me.
    Suffolk
    Nay my lord,
    That cannot be. You are a councillor,
    And by that virture no man dare accuse you.
    3100Gardiner
    My lord, because we have business of more moment
    We will be short with you. 'Tis his highness' pleasure
    And our consent for better trial of you,
    From hence you be committed to the Tower,
    Where being but a private man again,
    3105You shall know many dare accuse you boldly,
    More than (I fear), you are provided for.
    Cranmer
    Ah, my good lord of Winchester, I thank you.
    You are always my good friend. If your will pass
    I shall both find your lordship judge and juror;
    3110You are so merciful. I see your end,
    'Tis my undoing. Love and meekness, lord,
    Become a church man better then ambition.
    Win straying souls with modesty again;
    Cast none away. That I shall clear myself,
    3115Lay all the weight ye can upon my patience.
    I make as little doubt as you do conscience
    In doing daily wrongs. I could say more,
    But reverence to your calling makes me modest.
    Gardiner
    My lord, my lord, you are a sectary;
    3120That's the plain truth. Your painted gloss discovers
    To men that understand you words and weakness.
    Comwell
    My lord of Winchester, y'are a little
    By your good favor too sharp. Men so noble,
    However faultily, yet should find respect
    3125For what they have been. 'Tis a cruelty
    To load a falling man.
    Gardiner
    Good master secretary,
    I cry your honor mercy. You may worst
    Of all this table say so.
    3130Comwell
    Why my lord?
    Gardiner
    Do not I know you for a favorer
    Of this new sect? Ye are not sound.
    Comwell
    Not sound?
    Gardiner
    Not sound, I say.
    3135Comwell
    Would you were half so honest.
    Mens' prayers then would seek you, not their fears.
    Gardiner
    I shall remember this bold language.
    Comwell
    Do.
    Remember your bold life, too.
    3140Chamberlain
    This is too much.
    Forbear for shame, my lords.
    Gardiner
    I haue done.
    Comwell
    And I.
    Chamberlain
    Then thus for you, my lord; it stands agreed,
    3145I take it, by all voices: that forthwith
    You be conveyed to th'Tower a prisoner,
    There to remain till the king's further pleasure
    Be known unto us. Are you all agreed, lords?
    We are.
    3150Cranmer
    Is there no other way of mercy
    But I must needs to th'Tower, my Lords?
    Gardiner
    What other
    Would you expect? You are strangely troublesome.
    Let some o'th'guard be ready there.
    3155Enter the Guard.
    Cranmer
    For me?
    Must I go like a traitor thither?
    Gardiner
    Receive him,
    And see him safe i'th'Tower.
    3160Cranmer
    Stay, good my Lords,
    I have a little yet to say. Look there, my lords.
    By virtue of that ring I take my cause
    Out of the grips of cruel men and give it
    To a most noble judge: the king, my master.
    3165Chamberlain
    This is the king's ring.
    'Tis no counterfeit.
    Suffolk
    'Tis the right ring, by heaven. I told ye all
    When we first put this dangerous stone a rolling
    'Twould fall upon ourselves.
    3170Norfolk
    Do you think, my lords,
    The King will suffer but the little finger
    Of this man to be vexed?
    Chamberlain
    'Tis now too certain.
    How much more is his life in value with him?
    3175Would I were fairly out on't.
    Comwell
    My mind gave me,
    In seeking tales and informations
    Against this man, whose honesty the devil
    And his disciples only envy at,
    3180Ye blew the fire that burns ye. Now have at ye.
    Enter King frowning on them, takes his seat.
    Gardiner
    Dread sovereign,
    How much are we bound to heaven
    In daily thanks that gave is such a prince
    3185Not only good and wise but most religious.
    One that in all obedience makes the church
    The chief aim of his honor, and to strengthen
    That holy duty out of dear respect,
    His royal self in judgement comes to hear
    3190The cause betwixt her and this great offender.
    King Henry
    You were ever good at sudden commendations,
    Bishop of Winchester. But know I come not
    To hear such flattery now, and in my presence
    They are too thin and base to hide offences,
    3195To me you cannot reach. You play the spaniel,
    And think with wagging of your tongue to win me.
    But whatsoe'er thou tak'st me for, I'm sure
    Thou hast a cruel mature and a bloody.
    Good man sit down. Now let me see the proudest
    3200He that dares most but wag his finger at thee.
    By all that's holy he had better starve
    Than but once think his place becomes thee not.
    May it please your grace ...
    King Henry
    No, sir, it does not please me.
    3205I had thought I had had men of some understanding
    And wisdom of my council, but I find none.
    Was it discretion, lords, to let this man,
    This good man (few of you deserve that title),
    This honest man wait like a lousy foot boy
    3210At chamber door? And one as great as you are?
    Why, what a shame was this? Did my commission
    Bid ye so far forget yourselves? I gave ye
    Power as he was a councillor to try him,
    Not as a groom. There's some of ye, I see,
    3215More out of malice than integrity,
    Would try him to the utmost had ye mean,
    Which ye shall never have while I live.
    Chancellor
    Thus far,
    My most dread sovereign, may it like your grace
    3220To let my tongue excuse all. What was purposed
    Concerning his imprisonment was rather
    (If there be faith in men), meant for his trial
    And fair purgation to the world than malice,
    I'm sure in me.
    3225King Henry
    Well, well, my lords; respect him.
    Take him and use him well; he's worthy of it.
    I will say thus much for him: if a prince
    May be beholding to a subject, I
    Am for his love and service so to him.
    3230Make me no more ado but all embrace him.
    Be friends for shame, my lords. My lord of Canterbury,
    I have a suit which you must not deny me:
    That is, a fair young maid that yet wants baptism.
    You must be godfather and answer for her.
    3235Cranmer
    The greatest monarch now alive may glory
    In such an honor. How may I deserve it
    That am a poor and humble subject to you?
    King Henry
    Come come, my lord, you'd spare your spoons.
    You shall have two noble partners with you: the old
    3240Duchess of Norfolk and lady Marquesse Dorset. Will
    These please you?
    Once more, my lord of Winchester, I charge you
    Embrace, and love this man.
    Gardiner
    With a true heart
    3245And brother love I do it.
    Cranmer
    And let heaven
    Witness how dear I hold this confirmation.
    King Henry
    Good man, those joyful tears show thy true hearts.
    The common voice I see is verified
    3250Of thee, which says thus: Do my lord of Canterbury
    A shrewd turn and he's your friend forever.
    Come lords, we trifle time away. I long
    To have this young one made a Christian.
    As I have made ye one lords, one remain.
    3255So I grow stronger, you more honor gain.
    Exeunt.
    Noise and tumult within: Enter Porter and his man.
    Porter
    You'll leave your noise anon, ye rascals. Do 3260you take the court for parish garden, ye rude slaves?
    Leave your gaping.
    Good Master Porter, I belong to th'larder.
    Porter
    Belong to th'gallows, and be hanged, ye rogue!
    Is this a place to roar in? Fetch me a dozen crab tree
    3265staves, and strong ones; these are but switches to 'em.
    I'll scratch your heads; you must be seeing christenings?
    Do you look for ale and cakes here, you rude
    rascals?
    Pray, sir, be patient. 'Tis as much impossible,
    3270Unless we sweep 'em from the door with cannons,
    To scatter 'em, as 'tis to make 'em sleep
    On May-day morning, which will never be.
    We may as well push against Paul's as stir 'em.
    Porter
    How got they in, and be hanged?
    Alas I know not; how gets the tide in?
    As much as one sound cudgel of four foot
    (You see the poor remainder), could distribute,
    I made no spare, sir.
    Porter
    You did nothing, sir.
    I am not Sampson, nor Sir Guy, nor Colebrand,
    To mow 'em down before me. But if I spared any
    That had a head to hit, either young or old,
    He or she, cuckold or cuckold-maker;
    Let me ne'er hope to see a chine again,
    3285And that I would not for a cow, God save her.
    Do you hear, Master Porter?
    Porter
    I shall be with you presently, good Master Puppy;
    Keep the door closed, Sirha.
    What would you have me do?
    3290Porter
    What should you do,
    But knock 'em down by th'dozens? Is this Moorfields
    to muster in? Or have we some strange Indian with the
    great tool come to court, the women so besiege us?
    Bless me, what a fry of fornication is at door? On my
    3295Christian conscience, this one christening will beget a
    thousand, here will be father, godfather, and all
    together.
    The spoons will be the bigger, sir. There is
    a fellow somewhat near the door, he should be a
    3300brazier by his face, for o' my conscience twenty of the
    dog days now reign in's nose; all that stand about him are
    under the line, they need no other penance. That
    fire drake did I hit three times on the head, and three times
    was his nose discharged against me; he stands there
    3305like a mortar piece to blow us. There was a
    haberdasher's wife of small wit near him that railed upon me,
    till her pincked porrenger fell off her head for kindling;
    such a combustion in the state. I missed the meteor once
    and hit that woman who cried out clubs when I
    3310might see from far, some forty truncheoners draw to
    her succour, which were the hope o'th'Strand where she
    was quartered; they fell on, I made good my place; at
    length they came to th'broom staff to me, I defied 'em
    still, when suddenly a file of boys behind 'em, loose shot,
    3315delivered such a shower of pebbles that I was fain to
    draw mine honor in and let 'em win the work, the
    Devil was amongst 'em, I think, surely.
    Porter
    These are the youths that thunder at a playhouse,
    and fight for bitten apples, that no audience but the
    3320tribulation of Tower Hill, or the Limbs of Limehouse,
    their dear brothers are able to endure. I have some of
    'em in Limbo Patrum, and there they are like to dance
    these three days. Besides the running banquet of two
    beadles, that is to come.
    3325Enter Lord Chamberlain.
    Chamberlain
    Mercy o' me: what a multitude are here?
    They grow still, too; from all parts they are comming,
    As if we kept a fair here? Where are these porters?
    These lazy knaves? Y'have made a fine hand, fellows?
    3330There's a trim rabble let in. Are all these
    Your faithful friends o'th'suburbs? We shall have
    Great store of room, no doubt, left for the ladies
    When they pass back from the christening.
    Porter
    And't please your honor,
    3335We are but men, and what so many may do,
    Not being torn a pieces, we have done.
    An Army cannot rule 'em.
    Chamberlain
    As I live,
    If the King blame me for't, I'll lay ye all
    3340By th'heels and suddenly. And on your heads
    Clap round fines for neglect. Y'are lazy knaves,
    And here ye lie baiting of bombards, when
    Ye should do service. Hark, the trumpets sound.
    Th'are come already from the christening;
    3345Go break among the press and find a way out
    To let the troop pass fairly, or I'll find
    A marshalsea shall hold ye play these two months.
    Porter
    Make way there, for the princess.
    You great fellow:
    3350Stand close up, or I'll make your head ache.
    Porter
    You i'th'chamblet, get up o'th'rail;
    I'll peck you o'er the pales, else.
    Enter trumpets sounding: Then two aldermen, Lord Mayor, 3355Garter, Cranmer, Duke of Norfolk with his marshal's staff, Duke of Suffolk, two noblemen, bearing great standing bowls for the christening gifts. Then four noblemen bearing a canopy, under which the Duchess of Norfolk, godmother, bearing the child richly habited in 3360a mantle, &c. traine borne by a lady. Then follows the Marchioness Dorset, the other godmother, and ladies. The Troop pass once about the stage, and Garter speaks.
    Garter
    Heaven
    3365From thy endless goodness, send prosperous life,
    Long and ever happy, to the high and mighty
    Princess of England, Elizabeth.
    Flourish. Enter King and guard.
    Cranmer
    And to your royal grace and the good queen,
    3370My noble partners and myself thus pray
    All comfort, joy in this most gracious lady,
    Heaven ever laid up to make parents happy,
    May hourly fall upon ye.
    King Henry
    Thank you, good lord archbishop.
    3375What is her name?
    Cranmer
    Elizabeth.
    King Henry
    Stand up, lord;
    With this kiss take my blessing. God protect thee,
    Into whose hand I give thy life.
    3380Cranmer
    Amen.
    King Henry
    My noble gossips, y'have been too prodigal;
    I thank ye heartily. So shall this lady
    When she has so much English.
    Cranmer
    Let me speak, sir,
    3385For heaven now bids me; and the words I utter
    Let none think flattery; for they'll find 'em truth.
    This royal infant heaven still move about her,
    Though in her cradle, yet now promises
    Upon this land a thousand thousand blessings,
    3390Which time shall bring to ripeness. She shall be
    (But few now living can behold that goodness),
    A pattern to all princes living with her,
    And all that shall succeed. Saba was never
    More covetous of wisdom, and fair virtue
    3395Than this pure soul shall be. All princely graces
    That mold up such a mighty piece as this is,
    With all the virtues that attend the good,
    Shall still be doubled on her. Truth shall nurse her,
    Holy and heavenly thoughts still counsel her.
    3400She shall be loved and feared. Her own shall bless her;
    Her foes shake like a field of beaten corn,
    And hang their heads with sorrow.
    Good grows with her.
    In her days every man shall eat in safety
    3405Under his own vine what he plants; and sing
    The merry songs of peace to all his neighbours.
    God shall be truly known and those about her
    From her shall read the perfect way of honor,
    And by those claim their greatness; not by blood.
    3410Nor shall this peace sleep with her. But as when
    The bird of wonder dies, the maiden phoenix,
    Her ashes new create another heir,
    As great in admiration as herself.
    So shall she leave her blessedness to one
    3415(When heaven shal call her from this cloud of darkness),
    Who, from the sacred ashes of her honor
    Shall star-like rise, as great in fame as she was,
    And so stand fixed. Peace, plenty, love, truth, terror,
    That were the servants to this chosen infant,
    3420Shall then be his, and like a vine grow to him;
    Wherever the bright sun of heaven shall shine,
    His honor and the greatness of his name
    Shall be, and make new nations. He shall flourish,
    And like a mountain cedar reach his branches
    3425To all the plains about him. Our children's children
    Shall see this, and bless heaven.
    King Henry
    Thou speakest wonders.
    Cranmer
    She shall be to the happiness of England
    An aged princess; many days shall see her,
    3430And yet no day without a deed to crown it.
    Would I had known no more. But she must die,
    She must, the saints must have her; yet a virgin,
    A most unspotted lily shall she pass
    To th'ground, and all the world shall mourn her.
    3435King Henry
    O, lord Archbishop
    Thou hast made me now a man, never before
    This happy child did I get any thing.
    This oracle of comfort has so pleased me
    That when I am in heaven I shall desire
    3440To see what this child does and praise my maker.
    I thank ye all. To you, my good lord mayor,
    And you good brethren, I am much beholding.
    I have received much honor by your presence,
    And ye shall find me thankful. Lead the way, lords.
    3445Ye must all see the queen, and she must thank ye;
    She will be sick else. This day, no man think
    Has business at his house; for all shall stay:
    This little one shall make it holiday.
    Exeunt.
    [Enter Epilogue.]
    3450Epilogue
    'Tis ten to one, this play can never please
    All that are here. Some come to take their ease
    And sleep an act or two; but those we fear
    W'have frighted with our trumpets. So 'tis clear,
    They'll say 'tis naught. Others, to hear the City
    3455Abused extremely, and to cry 'that's witty',
    Which we have not done neither; that, I fear,
    All the expected good w'are like to hear.
    For this play at this time is only in
    The merciful construction of good women,
    3460For such a one we showed 'em. If they smile
    And say twill do, I know within a while
    All the best men are ours; for 'tis ill hap,
    If they hold, when their ladies bid 'em clap.