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Edition:
King Leir
The History of King Leir (Quarto, 1605)
- Introduction
- Texts of this edition
- Contextual materials
2389Leir, Mumford and the army.
2391Whereas our ships are ready to receyue vs:
2396Wherefore, my louing Countreymen, resolue,
I That
The History of King Leir
2402Shall be in danger, but ile second him.
2403To you, my Lord, we giue the whole commaund
2404Of all the army, next vnto our selfe,
2405Not doubting of you, but you will extend
2406Your wonted valour in this needfull case,
2407Encouraging the rest to do the like,
2408By your approued magnanimity.
2410Thats apt enough to run himselfe to death:
2412Which are the starres, which guide me to good hap,
2413Eyther to see my old Lord crown'd anew,
2414Or in his cause to bid the world adieu.
2415Leir. Thanks, good lord Mumford, tis more of your good will,
2416Then any merit or desert in me.
2417Mum. And now to you, my worthy Countrymen,
2418Ye valiant race of Genouestan Gawles,
2419Surnamed Red-shanks, for your chyualry,
2421Shew your selues now to be right Gawles indeed,
2422And be so bitter on your enemies,
2423That they may say, you are as bitter as Gall.
2424Gall them, braue Shot, with your Artillery:
2425Gall them, braue Halberts, with your sharp point Billes,
2426Each in their poynted place, not one, but all,
2427Fight for the credit of your selues and Gawle.
2429That rather wish to deale, then heare of blowes?
2430Let's to our ships, and if that God permit,