Safely stowed.

4.2.22632GentlemenWithin

Hamlet, Lord Hamlet!

What noise? Who calls on Hamlet?2634Oh, here they come.

What have you done, my lord, with the dead body?

Compounded it with dust, whereto 'tis kin.

Tell us where 'tis, that we may take it thence

4.2.72638and bear it to the chapel.

Do not believe it.

Believe what?

That I can keep your counsel and not mine 2642own. Besides, to be demanded of a sponge, what 2643replication should be made by the son of a king?

Take you me for a sponge, my lord?

Ay, sir, that soaks up the King's countenance, his 2646rewards, his authorities. But such officers do the King 2647best service in the end: he keeps them like an ape in 2648the corner of his jaw, first mouthed to be last swallowed. 2649When he needs what you have gleaned, it is but 2650squeezing you, and, sponge, you shall be dry again.

I understand you not, my lord.

I am glad of it. A knavish speech sleeps in a foolish ear.

My lord, you must tell us where the body is, 2655and go with us to the King.

The body is with the King, but the King is not 2657with the body. The King is a thing--

A thing, my lord?

Of nothing. Bring me to him. Hide fox, and all 2660after!