Internet Shakespeare Editions

About this text

  • Title: The History of King Leir (Modern)
  • Editor: Andrew Griffin

  • Copyright Queen's Men Editions. This text may be freely used for educational, non-profit purposes; for all other uses contact the Editor.
    Author: Anonymous
    Editor: Andrew Griffin
    Peer Reviewed

    The History of King Leir (Modern)

    1789.1[Scene 20] [Video Sc.20]
    1790Enter the Gallian Ambassador alone.
    Ambassador
    There is of late news come unto the court
    That old Lord Leir remains in Cambria.
    I'll hie me thither presently to impart
    My letters and my message unto him.
    1795I never was less welcome to a place
    In all my lifetime than I have been hither,
    Especially unto the stately queen
    Who would not cast one gracious look on me,
    But still, with louring and suspicious eyes,
    1800Would take exceptions at each word I spake,
    And fain she would have undermined me
    To know what my embassage did import.
    But she is like to hop without her hope,
    And in this matter for to want her will,
    1805Though, by report, she'll have't in all things else.
    Well, I will post away for Cambria;
    Within these few days I hope to be there,
    Exit.