Not Peer Reviewed
- Edition: King Lear
King Lear (Modern, Extended Quarto)
- Introduction
- Texts of this edition
- Contextual materials
-
- Holinshed on King Lear
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- The History of King Leir
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- Albion's England (Selection)
-
- Hardyng's Chronicle (Selection)
-
- Kings of Britain
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- Chronicles of England
-
- Faerie Queene
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- The Mirror for Magistrates
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- The Arcadia
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- A Declaration of Egregious Popish Impostures
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- Aristotle on tragedy
-
- The Book of Job (Selections)
-
- The Monk's Tale (Selections)
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- The Defense of Poetry
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- The First Blast of the Trumpet
-
- Basilicon Doron
-
- On Bastards
-
- On Aging
-
- King Lear (Adapted by Nahum Tate)
-
- Facsimiles
1[Scene 1]
It did always seem so to us, but 7now in the 6division of the kingdoms it 8appears not which of 7the dukes he values 9most, for equalities are so weighed that 8curiosity in 10neither can make choice of either's moiety.
Is not this your son, my lord?
His breeding, sir, hath been at my charge. I have 13so 11often blushed to acknowledge him that now I am 14brazed to it.
I cannot conceive you.
Sir, this young fellow's mother could, 17whereupon she 14grew round-wombed, and had indeed, sir, a 18son for her cradle 15ere she had a husband for her bed. 19Do you smell a fault?
But I have, sir, a son by order of law, some 23year 19elder than this, who yet is no dearer in my 24account. Though this 20knave came something saucily into the 25world before he was 21sent for, yet was his mother fair, 26there was good sport at his 22making, and the whoreson must 27be acknowledged.--Do you know 23this noble 28gentleman, Edmund?
No, my lord.
My services to your lordship.
I must love you, and sue to know you better.
Sir, I shall study deserving.
3732Sound a sennet. Enter one bearing a coronet, then Lear, then the 3833Dukes of Albany and Cornwall; next Goneril, Regan, [and] 38.134Cordelia, with followers.
Attend my lords of France and Burgundy, Gloucester.
I shall, my liege.
[Exit Gloucester.]
Meantime we will express our darker purposes.
46Unburdened crawl toward death. Our son of Cornwall,
47And you, our no less loving son of Albany,
48We have this hour a constant will to publish
49Our daughters' several dowers, that future strife
50May be prevented now.
42The two great princes France and Burgundy,
Sir, I do love you more than words can wield the matter;
[Aside] What shall Cordelia do? Love and be silent.
Of all these bounds, even from this line to this,
Sir, I am made of the self same mettle
That my sister is,
78Myself an enemy to all other joys
81In your dear highness' love.
[Aside] Then poor Cordelia--
84More richer than my tongue.
To thee and thine hereditary ever
To 8whose young love
90The vines of France and milk of Burgundy
91Strive to be interessed,
77Than your sisters'?
Nothing my lord.
How? Nothing can come of nothing. Speak again.
Unhappy that I am, I cannot heave
Go to, go to. Mend your speech a little
Good my lord,
107They love you all?
But goes this with thy heart?
Ay, good my lord.
So young and so untender.
So young, my lord, and true.
Well, let it be so. Thy truth then be thy dower;
125To gorge his appetite
Good my liege--
Peace, Kent! 130Come not between the dragon and his wrath.
[Exit an attendant.]
Cornwall and Albany,
Royal Lear,
The bow is bent and drawn. Make from the shaft.
Let it fall rather, 136though the fork invade
162Thy youngest daughter does not love thee least;
Kent, on thy life no more.
My life I never held but as a pawn
Out of my sight!
See better, Lear, and let me still remain
Now by Apollo--
Now, by Apollo, King, 174thou swear'st thy gods in vain.
[Threatening Kent] Vassal, recreant!
176Albany, [Cornwall or Cordelia]
Dear sir, forbear!
Do. Kill thy physician,
Hear me. On thy allegiance hear me.
Why fare thee well, King, since thus thou wilt appear,
[Exit.]
Here's France and Burgundy, my noble lord.
My lord of Burgundy, 206we first address towards you,
Royal majesty, 211I crave no more than what
Right noble Burgundy, 214when she was dear to us
190We did hold her so,
217Or all of it, with our displeasure pieced
I know no answer.
Sir, will you with those infirmities she owes,
Pardon me, royal sir,
Then leave her, sir, for by the power that made me
This is most strange,
240Must be of such unnatural degree
I yet beseech your majesty,
Go to, go to. Better thou hadst
Is it no more but this? A tardiness in nature
262When it is mingled with respects that stands
Royal Lear,
268Duchess of Burgundy.
Nothing. I have sworn.
[To Cordelia] I am sorry then you have so lost a father
Peace be with Burgundy; 273since that respects
Fairest Cordelia, that art most rich, being poor,
Thou hast her, France. Let her be thine,
291Come, noble Burgundy.
262Exeunt Lear, Burgundy, [and others].
Bid farewell to your sisters.
The jewels of our father, 265with washed eyes
294Cordelia leaves you. I know you what you are,
Prescribe not us our duties.
Let your study
Time shall unfold what pleated cunning hides,
Come, fair Cordelia.
Exeunt France and Cordelia.
Sister, it is not a little I have to say 311282of what most nearly appertains to us both. 312283I think our father will hence tonight.
That's most certain, and with you; next month with us.
You see how full of changes his age is. The 315observation we 286have made of it hath not been little. He always 316loved our sister 287most, and with what poor judgment he 317hath now cast her 288off appears too gross.
The best and soundest of his time hath been but 321rash. 292Then must we look to receive from his age not 322alone the 293imperfection of long-engrafted condition, but 323therewithal unruly 294waywardness that infirm and 324choleric years bring with them.
There is further compliment of leave taking 328between 298France and him. Pray let's hit together. If our 329father carry 299authority with such dispositions as he bears, 330this last surrender of his 300will but offend us.
We shall further think on't.
We must do something, and i'th'heat.
333[Scene 2]
Thou, Nature, art my goddess. To thy law
338The curiosity of nations to deprive me,
341When my dimensions are as well compact,
343As honest madam's issue?
346More composition and fierce quality
349Got 'tween asleep and wake. Well, then,
352As to the legitimate.
354And my invention thrive, Edmund the base
356Now, gods, stand up for bastards!
Kent banished thus, and France in choler parted?
[Pockets the letter.] So please your lordship, none.
Why so earnestly seek you to put up that letter?
I know no news, my lord.
What paper were you reading?
Nothing, my lord.
No? What needs then that terrible dispatch of 368it into 329your pocket? The quality of nothing hath not 369such need to hide 330itself. Let's see. Come, if it be 370nothing I shall not need 331spectacles.
I beseech you, sir, pardon me. It is a letter 372from my brother 333that I have not all o'er-read. For so 373much as I have perused, I find it 334not fit for your 374liking.
Give me the letter, sir.
I shall offend either to detain or give it. 377The contents, 337as in part I understand them, 378are to blame.
Let's see, let's see!
[He gives Gloucester the] letter.
[Reads.]
This policy of age makes the 383world bitter to the best 342of our times, keeps our fortunes from 384us till our oldness cannot 343relish them. I begin to find an idle 385and fond bondage in the 344oppression of aged tyranny, who sways 386not as it hath power, but as 345it is suffered. Come to me that of 387this I may speak more. If our 346father would sleep till I waked 388him, you should enjoy half his 347revenue for ever, and live the 389beloved of your brother,
348Edgar.
390349Hum, conspiracy! "Slept till I waked him," "You should 391enjoy half 350his revenue"? My son Edgar? Had he a 392hand to write this? A 351heart and brain to breed it in? 393When came this to you? Who 352brought it?
It was not brought me, my lord, there's the 395cunning of 354it. I found it thrown in at the casement of 396my closet.
You know the character to be your brother's?
If the matter were good, my lord, I durst swear 399it were 357his; but in respect of that I would fain think it 400were not.
It is his?
Hath he never heretofore sounded you in this business?
Never, my lord, but I have often heard him 406maintain 363it to be fit that sons at perfect age, and fathers 407declining, his father 364should be as ward to the son, and 408the son manage the 365revenue.
O villain, villain! His very opinion in the 410letter. 367Abhorred villain. Unnatural, detested, brutish 411villain, worse than 368brutish. Go sir, seek him. Ay, 412apprehend him, abominable villain. 369Where is he?
I do not well know, my lord. If it shall please you to 414371suspend your indignation against my brother till you can 415derive 372from him better testimony of this intent, you should 416run a 373certain course; where, if you violently proceed 417against him 374mistaking his purpose, it would make a great 418gap in your own 375honor and shake in pieces the heart of 419his obedience. I dare pawn 376down my life for him, 420he hath wrote this to feel my affection 377to your honor, and 421to no further pretense of danger.
Think you so?
If your honor judge it meet, I will place you 424where 380you shall hear us confer of this, and by an 425auricular assurance 381have your satisfaction--and that without 426any further delay than 382this very evening.
He cannot be such a monster.
Nor is not, sure.
6To his father, that so tenderly and entirely loves him. 427.3386Heaven and earth! 7Edmund, seek 428him out. Wind me into him. I 387pray you, frame your 429business after your own wisdom. I would 388unstate 430myself to be in a due resolution.
I shall seek him sir, presently, convey the 432business as I 390shall see means, and acquaint you withal.
Gloucester
11These late eclipses in the sun and moon 434portend 392no good to us. Though the wisdom of nature can 435reason thus 393and thus, yet nature finds itself scourged 436by the sequent effects. 394Love cools, friendship falls off, 437brothers divide. In cities 395mutinies, in countries 438discords, palaces treason; the bond cracked 396between 439son and father. 13 This villain of mine comes under the 440prediction--there's son against father. The King falls from 441bias of nature--there's father against child. We have 442seen the best of our time. Machinations, hollowness, 443treachery, and all ruinous disorders follow us disquietly 444to our graves. 12Find out this villain, Edmund. It shall 397lose 445thee nothing. Do it carefully. And the noble and 446398true-hearted Kent banished, his offence honesty. Strange, strange!
16[Exit.]
This is the excellent foppery of the world, that 448when 400we are sick in fortune--often the surfeit of our own 449behavior--401we make guilty of our disasters the sun, the 450moon, and the 402stars, as if we were villains by necessity, 451fools by 403heavenly compulsion, knaves, thieves, and 452treacherers by spiritual 404predominance; drunkards, 453liars, and adulterers by an enforced 405obedience of planetary 454influence; and all that we are evil in 406by a divine 455thrusting on. An admirable evasion of whoremaster 407man, 456to lay his goatish disposition to the charge of stars. 457"My 408father compounded with my mother under the 458dragon's tail, 409and my nativity was under Ursa Major, so 459that it follows I am 410rough and lecherous." Fut! I should 460have been that I am had the 411maidenliest star of the 461firmament twinkled on my bastardy. Edgar--
463--and out he comes like the catastrophe of the old 414comedy. 464Mine is villainous melancholy, with a sigh like them of 465415Bedlam. --Oh, these eclipses do portend these 466divisions.
416Edgar
I am thinking, brother, of a prediction I read this 470other 419day, what should follow these eclipses.
Do you busy yourself about that?
I promise you the effects he writ of 18succeed 473unhappily19, 473.1422as of unnaturalness between the child and the parent, death, 423dearth, dissolutions of ancient amities, divisions in state, 473.2424menaces and maledictions against king and nobles, needless 473.3425diffidences, banishment of friends, dissipation of cohorts, nuptial 473.4426breaches, and I know not what.
How long have you been a sectary astronomical?
428Bastard
429Edgar
Why, 475the night gone by.
Spake you with him?
Two hours together.
None at all.
Bethink yourself wherein you may have 482offended 436him, and at my entreaty forbear his presence till 483some little 437time hath qualified the heat of his displeasure, 484which at this 438instant so rageth in him that with the 485mischief of your person it 439would scarce allay.
Some villain hath done me wrong.
That's my fear, brother. I advise you to the best. 491Go 442armed. 493I am no honest 494man if there be any good meaning 443towards you. I have told 495you what I have seen and heard but 444faintly, nothing 496like the image and horror of it. Pray you, away!
Shall I hear from you anon?
I do serve you in this business.
Exit Edgar
505[Scene 3]
Yes, madam.
By day and night he wrongs me. 458Every hour
511He flashes into one gross crime or other
[Hunting horns within]
He's coming madam. I hear him.
Put on what weary negligence you please,
That he hath given away. Now, by my life,
523Remember what I tell you.
Very well, madam.
And let his knights have colder looks among 526you. What 475grows of it, no matter. Advise your fellows so. 12I would breed 526.1476from hence occasions, and I shall, that I may speak. 13527I'll write 477straight to my sister to hold my very course. Go 528prepare for 478dinner.
529[Scene 4]
If but as well I other accents borrow
534For which I razed my likeness. Now, banished Kent,
Full of labor.
Let me not stay a jot for dinner. Go get it ready.
[Exit a servant.]
A man, sir.
What dost thou profess? What wouldst thou 543with us?
I do profess to be no less than I seem, to serve 545him 491truly that will put me in trust, to love him that is 546honest, to 492converse with him that is wise and says little, to 547fear judgment, 493to fight when I cannot choose, and to 548eat no fish.
What art thou?
A very honest-hearted fellow, and as poor as 551the King.
Service.
555Lear
Who wouldst thou serve?
You.
557Lear
Dost thou know me, fellow?
What's that?
561Kent
Authority.
What services canst do?
I can keep honest counsel, ride, run, mar a 564curious 505tale in telling it, and deliver a plain message 565bluntly. That 506which ordinary men are fit for I am 566qualified in, and the best 507of me is diligence.
How old art thou?
Not so young to love a woman for singing, 569nor so old to 510dote on her for anything. I have years on 570my back forty-511eight.
Follow me. Thou shalt serve me. If I like thee no 572513worse after dinner I will not part from thee yet. Dinner, 573ho! 514Dinner! Where's my knave, my fool? Go you and call 574my fool 515hither.
[Exit a servant.]
You, sirrah, where's my daughter?
So please you--
[Exit Oswald.]
What says the fellow there? Call the 578clotpoll back.
[Exit Kent and a Servant.]
[Enter Kent and servant.]
How now? 520Where's that mongrel?
He says, my lord, your daughter is not well.
585Lear
'A would not?
My lord, I know not what the matter is, 587but to my 527judgment your highness is not entertained 588with that ceremonious 528affection as you were wont. 589There's a great abatement appears as 529well in 590the general dependents as in the duke himself also, 530and 591your daughter.
592Lear
Ha? Sayest thou so?
I beseech you pardon me, my lord, if I be 594mistaken, 532for my duty cannot be silent when I think 595your highness 533wronged.
Thou but rememberest me of mine own 597conception. I 535have perceived a most faint neglect of late, 598which I have rather 536blamed as mine own jealous 599curiosity than as a very pretense and 537purport of unkindness. 600I will look further into't. But where's 538this fool? I 601have not seen him this two days.
[Exit a servant.]
Go you, 606call hither my fool.
[Exit another servant.]
608[Enter Oswald.]
My lady's father.
I am none of this, my lord, 613I beseech you, pardon me.
[Striking him] Do you bandy looks with me, you rascal?
I'll not be struck, my lord.
[Tripping him] Nor tripped neither, you base football player.
I thank thee, fellow. 618Thou servest me, and I'll love thee.
[To Oswald] Come sir, I'll teach you differences. 620Away, away! If 553you will measure your lubber's length 621again, tarry; but away, 554you have wisdom.
[Exit Oswald.]
624Enter Fool.
Let me hire him too. [To Kent, holding out his cap] Here's my coxcomb.
How now, my pretty knave, how dost thou?
[To Kent] Sirrah, you were best take my coxcomb.
Why, Fool?
Why, for taking one's part, that's out of favor. 630Nay, an 562thou canst not smile as the wind sits thou'lt catch 631cold shortly. 563There, take my coxcomb. Why, this fellow 632hath banished two 564on's daughters, and done the third a 633blessing against his will. If 565thou follow him, thou must 634needs wear my coxcomb. [To Lear] How 566now, nuncle? Would 635I had two coxcombs and two daughters.
Why, my boy?
If I gave them any living, I'd keep my 638coxcombs 569myself. There's mine; beg another of thy 639daughters.
Take heed, sirrah--the whip.
Truth is a dog that must to kennel. He must be 642whipped 572out, when Lady the brach may stand by the fire 643and stink.
A pestilent gall to me.
Sirrah, I'll teach thee a speech.
646Lear
Do.
Mark it, nuncle.
648Have more than thou showest,
650Lend less than thou owest,
652Learn more than thou trowest,
654Leave thy drink and thy whore,
656And thou shalt have more
657Than two tens to a score.
This is nothing, fool.
Then, like the breath of an unfee'd lawyer, 660you gave 582me nothing for't. Can you make no use of 661nothing, nuncle?
Why, no, boy. 663Nothing can be made out of nothing.
[To Kent] Prithee tell him, so much the rent of his land 665comes to. 585He will not believe a fool.
A bitter fool.
No, lad, teach me.
[Sings.]
That lord that counseled thee to give away thy land,
Dost thou call me fool, boy?
This is not altogether fool, my Lord.
15.1No, faith, lords and great men will not let me. If I had 669.10599a monopoly on't, they would have part on't. And ladies too; they 669.11600will not let me have all the fool to myself, they'll be snatching. 670601Give me an egg, nuncle, and I'll give thee 671two crowns.
What two crowns shall they be?
Why, after I have cut the egg in the middle and 674eat 604up the meat, the two crowns of the egg. When 675thou clovest 605thy crown i'th'middle and gavest away 676both parts, thou borest 606thy ass o'th'back o'er the 677dirt. Thou hadst little wit in thy bald 607crown when thou 678gav'st thy golden one away. If I speak like 608myself in 679this, let him be whipped that first finds it so.
[Sings.]
When were you wont to be so full of songs, sirrah?
I have used it, nuncle, ever since thou mad'st 686thy 615daughters thy mother; for when thou gav'st them 687the rod, and puttest 616down thine own breeches,
[Sings.]
690That such a king should play bo-peep,
692Prithee, nuncle, keep a 619schoolmaster that can teach 693thy fool to lie. I would fain learn to lie.
An you lie, we'll have you whipped.
I marvel what kin thou and thy daughters are. 696They'll 622have me whipped for speaking true, thou wilt have me 697whipped for 623lying, and sometime I am whipped for holding 698my peace. I had 624rather be any kind of thing than a fool; 699and yet I would not be 625thee, nuncle. Thou hast pared thy 700wit o'both sides, and left nothing 626in the middle. Here 701comes one of the parings.
Thou wast a pretty fellow when thou hadst no 706need 631to care for her frown. Now thou art an "O" 707without a figure. I am 632better than thou art now--I am a fool, 708thou art nothing. [To Goneril] Yes, 633forsooth, I will hold my tongue; so 709your face bids me though 634you say nothing.
[Sings.]
[Pointing to Lear.] That's a shelled peascod.
Not only, sir, this, your all-licensed fool,
715In rank and not-to-be-endurèd riots. Sir,
719That you protect this course, and put it on
723Might in their working do you that offence,
725Must call discreet proceedings.
For you trow, nuncle,
Are you our daughter?
Come, sir.
I would you would make use of that good 652wisdom
732Whereof I know you are fraught, and put away
May not an ass know when the cart draws 736the horse?--
Doth any here know me? 739Why, this is not Lear.
Sure 'tis not so.
743Who is it that can tell me who I am?
Which they will make an obedient father.
Your name, fair gentlewoman?
Come, sir,
This admiration is much of the savor
749As you are old and reverend, should be wise.
752That this our court, infected with their manners,
755Than a great palace. The shame itself doth speak
758A little to disquantity your train;
761That know themselves and you.
Darkness and devils!
[Exit one or more.]
You strike my people, and your disordered rabble
768Enter Duke [Albany].
We that too late repent us-- [To Albany] Oh, sir, are you come?
[Exit servant.]
772More hideous when thou show'st thee in a child
774Albany
Pray, sir, be patient.
Lear
777That all particulars of duty know,
780How ugly didst thou in Cordelia show,
783And added to the gall.
[Striking his head]
14.1O Lear, Lear!
Albany
21My lord, I am guiltless as I am ignorant
787Of what hath moved you.
It may be so, my lord. 789Hark, Nature, hear.
Dear 695goddess,
790Suspend thy purpose if thou didst intend
792Into her womb convey sterility,
794And from her derogate body never spring
798Let it stamp wrinkles in her brow of youth,
801To laughter and contempt, that she may feel--
That 703she may feel
802How sharper than a serpent's tooth it is
[Exeunt Lear, Kent, Fool, and servants.]
Now, gods that we adore, 805whereof comes this?
Never afflict yourself to know the cause,
808That dotage gives it.
809[Enter Lear and Fool.]
What? Fifty of my followers at a clap
811Within a fortnight?
What is the matter, sir?
I'll tell thee--814life and death! I am ashamed
819Untented woundings of a father's curse
822And cast you with the waters that you make
824Yet have I left a daughter,
828That I'll resume the shape which thou dost think
[Exit Lear.]
Do you mark that, my lord?
I cannot be so partial, Goneril,
Come, sir, no more.
22.1[Exit Fool.]
842Goneril
This man hath had good counsel. 843A hundred knights?
844'Tis politic and safe to let him keep
845At point a hundred knights? Yes, that on every dream,
846Each buzz, each fancy, each complaint, dislike,
847He may enguard his dotage with their powers
848And hold our lives in mercy.--Oswald, I say!
849Albany
Well, you may fear too far.
850Goneril
Safer than trust too far.
851Let me still take away the harms I fear,
852Not fear still to be taken. I know his heart.
853What he hath uttered I have writ my sister.
854If she sustain him and his hundred knights
855When I have showed th'unfitness--
856Enter [Oswald the] steward.
857How now Oswald?
What, have you writ this letter to my sister?
Yes, madam.
Take you some company and away to horse.
863As may compact it more. Get you gone,
[Exit Oswald.]
28.1Now, my lord,
865This milky gentleness and course of yours,
868Than praised for harmful mildness.
How far your eyes may pierce I cannot tell.
Nay then--
872Albany
Well, well, the event.
873[Scene 5]
[To Kent] Go you before to Gloucester with these letters. 876Acquaint 744my daughter no further with anything you 877know than comes 745from her demand out of the letter. 878If your diligence be not 746speedy I shall be there before 879you.
Exit.
884Lear
Ay, boy.
Then I prithee be merry. Thy wit shall ne'er go 886slipshod.
Ha ha ha.
Shalt see thy other daughter will use thee kindly, 889for 754though she's as like this as a crab is like an 890apple, yet I con what 755I can tell.
Why, what canst thou tell, my boy?
She'll taste as like this as a crab doth to a 893crab. Thou 758canst not tell why one's nose stands in the middle 894of his face?
No.
Why, to keep his eyes on either side 's nose, 897that what 761a man cannot smell out 'a may spy into.
I did her wrong.
Canst tell how an oyster makes his shell?
900Lear
No.
Nor I neither; but I can tell why a snail has 902a house.
Why?
Why, to put his head in, not to give it away to his 905767daughter, and leave his horns without a case.
Thy asses are gone about them. The reason why 909the 771seven stars are no more than seven is a pretty reason.
Because they are not eight?
Yes. Thou wouldst make a good fool.
To tak't again perforce. Monster ingratitude!
How's that?
[Enter a servant.]
Are 920the horses ready?
Ready, my lord.
922Lear
Come, boy.
Exeunt [all but the Fool].
She that is maid now, and laughs at my departure,
926[Scene 6]
Save thee, Curan.
And you, sir. I have been 930with your father, and given 788him notice 931that the Duke of Cornwall and his Duchess 932will be 789here with him tonight.
How comes that?
Nay, I know not. You have heard of the news 935abroad, 792I mean the whispered ones, for there are yet but 936ear-bussing 793arguments.
Not I. Pray you what are they?
Not a word.
You may, then, in time. 942Fare you well, sir.
[Exit Curan.]
The Duke be here tonight! The better--best.
Enter Edgar [above].
946And I have one thing of a queasy question
[Edgar descends.]
950My father watches. Oh, fly this place!
954He's coming hither now in the night, i'th'haste,
957Advise your--
I am sure on't. Not a word.
I hear my father coming. Pardon me.
963Yield! Come before my father. Light here, here.--[To Edgar]
965[Exit Edgar.]
968Do more than this in sport. [Shouting] Father, father!
970Enter Gloucester [and attendants].
Now Edmund, where is the villain?
Here stood he in the dark, his sharp sword out,
But where is he?
Look sir, I bleed.
Where is the villain, Edmund?
Fled this way, sir, when by no means he could--
Pursue him, go after.
[Exit attendant(s).]
[To the Bastard] By no means what?
Persuade me to the murder of your lordship;
983Spoke with how manifold and strong a bond
986To his unnatural purpose, with fell motion
989But when he saw my best alarumed spirits,
992But suddenly he fled.
Let him fly far.
995And found, dispatch! The noble Duke my master,
998That he which finds him shall deserve our thanks,
When I dissuaded him from his intent
1004"Thou unpossessing bastard, dost thou think,
1007Make thy words faithed? No. What I should deny,
1010To thy suggestion, plot, and damned pretense.
1014To make thee seek it."
Strong and fastened villain.
[Trumpets sound.]
1018All ports I'll bar. The villain shall not scape;
1022Loyal and natural boy, I'll work the means
How now, my noble friend. Since I came hither,
If it be true, all vengeance comes too short
Madam, my old heart is cracked, is cracked.
What, did my father's godson seek your life?
Ay, lady, lady, shame would have it hid.
Was he not companion with the riotous knights
I know not, madam. 'Tis too bad, too bad.
Yes, madam, he was.
No marvel, then, though he were ill affected.
1043I'll not be there.
Nor I, assure thee Regan.
1046A child-like office.
'Twas my duty, sir.
He did betray his practice, and received
Is he pursued?
Ay, my good lord.
If he be taken, he shall never more
1055Whose virtue and obedience doth this instant
1058You we first seize on.
I shall serve you truly,
However else.
For him I thank your grace.
You know not why we came to visit you?
This out-of-season, threatening, dark-eyed night?
1071Which craves the instant use.
I serve you, madam.
1073Your graces are right welcome.
1074[Scene 7]
Good even to thee friend. Art of the house?
Ay.
1078Oswald
Where may we set our horses?
I'th'mire.
1080Oswald
Prithee, if thou love me, tell me.
I love thee not.
1082Oswald
Why then, I care not for thee.
Why dost thou use me thus? I know thee not.
Fellow, I know thee.
What dost thou know me for?
A knave, a rascal, an eater of broken meats; a 1089base, 911proud, shallow, beggarly, three-suited, hundred-1090pound, filthy, 912worsted-stocking knave; a lily-livered, 1091action-taking knave; a 913whoreson glass-gazing super-1092finical rogue, one-trunk-914inheriting slave. One that 1093wouldst be a bawd in way of good service, 915and art 1094nothing but the composition of a knave, beggar, 916coward, 1095pander, and the son and heir of a mongrel bitch--1096whom 917I will beat into clamorous whining if thou 1097deny the least 918syllable of the addition.
What a monstrous fellow art thou, thus 1099to rail on one 920that's neither known of thee, nor 1100knows thee.
What a brazen-faced varlet art thou, to deny 1102thou 922knowest me! Is it two days ago since I beat thee, and tripped up 923thy 1103heels before the king? [Drawing his sword.] Draw, you rogue, 1104for though it be 924night the moon shines. I'll make a 1105sop of the moonshine o'you. 925Draw, you whoreson cullionly 1106barber-monger, draw!
Away, I have nothing to do with thee.
Draw, you rascal. You bring letters 1109against the king, 928and take Vanity the puppet's part 1110against the royalty of her 929father. Draw, you rogue, or 1111I'll so carbonado your shanks! Draw, 930you rascal. Come 1112your ways.
Help, ho! Murder! Help!
1116Oswald
Help, ho, murder, help!
1117934Enter Edmund [the Bastard] with his rapier drawn, Gloucester, the Duke 935and Duchess [of Cornwall, and attendants].
How now, what's the matter?
[To the Bastard] With you, goodman boy, an you please. Come, 1120I'll 938flesh you. Come on, young master.
[They exchange blows.]
Weapons? Arms? What's the matter here?
[Drawing his sword] Keep peace upon your lives. He dies that strikes 1123941again. What's the matter?
The messengers from our sister, and the king.
What's your difference? Speak.
I am scarce in breath, my lord.
No marvel. You have so bestirred your valor, 1128you 946cowardly rascal, nature disclaims in thee. A tailor 1129made thee.
Thou art a strange fellow. A tailor make a man?
Ay, a tailor, sir. A stone-cutter, or a painter could 1132not 949have made him so ill, though he had been but two 1133hours at 950the trade.
Speak yet. How grew your quarrel?
Thou whoreson zed, thou unnecessary letter!--1138My 955lord, if you'll give me leave, I will tread this 1139unbolted villain 956into mortar, and daub the walls of a 1140jakes with him. [To Oswald] Spare 957my gray beard, you wagtail?
Peace sir.
1142You beastly knave, have you no reverence?
Yes, sir, but anger has a privilege.
Why art thou angry?
That such a slave as this should wear a sword,
1155Smile you my speeches, as I were a fool?
What, art thou mad, old fellow?
How fell you out? Say that.
No contraries hold more antipathy,
Why dost thou call him knave?
1163What's his offence?
His countenance likes me not.
No more perchance does mine, or his, or hers.
Sir, 'tis my occupation to be plain.
This is a fellow 1171who, having been praised
Sir, in good sooth, or in sincere verity,
What mean'st thou by this?
To go out of my dialogue, which you 1186discommend so 999much. I know, sir, I am no flatterer. He that 1187beguiled you in a plain 1000accent was a plain knave, which for my part 1188I will not be, 1001though I should win your 1189displeasure to entreat me to't.
[To Oswald] What's the offence you gave him?
I never gave him any.
1193To strike at me, upon his misconstruction,
None of these rogues and cowards
1202But Ajax is their fool.
Bring forth the stocks, ho!
I am too old to learn.
1208On whose employments I was sent to you.
Fetch forth the stocks! 1213As I have life and honor,
1022There shall he sit till noon.
Till noon? Till night, my lord, and all night too.
Why, madam, if I were your father's dog
Sir, being his knave, I will.
[Stocks brought out.]
This is a fellow of the self same nature
Let me beseech your grace not to do so.
1223Should have him thus restrained.
I'll answer that.
My sister may receive it much more worse
[Attendants put Kent in the stocks.]
[Exeunt all but Gloucester and Kent.]
I am sorry for thee, friend. 'Tis the Duke's pleasure,
Pray you, do not, sir. I have watched and traveled hard.
The Duke's to blame in this. 1236'Twill be ill took.
[Exit.]
Good king, that must approve the common saw,
[He] sleeps.
I hear myself proclaimed,
Exit.
'Tis strange that they should so depart from home,
As I learned, 1277the night before there was
[From the stocks] Hail to thee, noble master.
How? Mak'st thou this shame thy pastime?
1281Kent
No, my lord.
Ha ha! Look, he wears cruel garters. 1093Horses are 1283tied by the heels, dogs and bears 1094by the neck, 1284monkeys by the loins, and men 1095by the legs. When a man's 1285over-lusty at legs, 1096then he wears wooden netherstocks.
[To Kent] What's he 1287that hath so much thy place mistook
It is both he and she, 1290your son and daughter.
No.
1292Kent
Yes.
No, I say
1294Kent
I say yea.
No, no, they would not.
Kent
Yes they have.
By Jupiter I swear no, 1297they durst not do't,
My lord, when at their home
1322Fool
Winter's not gone yet if the wild geese fly that way.
Oh, how this mother swells up toward my heart.
With the earl, sir, within.
[To the Fool and Knight] Follow me not, stay there.
[Exit Lear.]
Made you no more offence 1334than what you speak of?
No. 1336How chance the king comes with so small a train?
Why, Fool?
We'll set thee to school to an ant, to teach 1341thee there's 1139no laboring in the winter. All that follow their 1342noses are led by 1140their eyes but blind men, and there's 1343not a nose among a hundred but 1141can smell him that's 1344stinking. Let go thy hold when a great 1142wheel runs down a 1345hill, lest it break thy neck with 1143following it. But the 1346great one that goes up the hill, let him draw thee 1144after. 1347When a wise man gives thee better counsel, give me mine 13481145again. I would have none but knaves follow it, since a 1349fool 1146gives it.
[Sings.]
Where learned you this, Fool?
Not in the stocks.
1157Enter Lear and Gloucester.
Deny to speak with me? 1362Th'are sick, th'are weary,
My dear lord,
1368How unremoveable and fixed he is
1369In his own course.
Vengeance, death, plague, confusion!
1373Gloucester
Well, my good lord, I have informed them so.
1374Lear
Informed them? Dost thou understand me, man?
Ay, my good lord.
The king would speak with Cornwall. 1377The dear father
1379Are they informed of this? My breath and blood--
1385To suffer with the body. I'll forbear,
1388For the sound man.
[Notices Kent.]
1177Death on my state! Wherefore
1390That this remotion of the Duke and her
I would have all well betwixt you.
[Exit Gloucester.]
Oh, my heart, my heart.
Cry to it nuncle, as the cockney did to the 1399eels when 1187she put 'em i'th'paste alive. She rapped 'em 1400o'th'coxcombs with a stick 1188and cried, "Down, wantons, 1401down!" 'Twas her brother that in pure 1189kindness to his 1402horse buttered his hay.
Good morrow to you both.
Hail to your grace.
[Kent here set at liberty.]
I am glad to see your highness.
Regan, I think you are. I know what reason
I pray, sir, take patience. I have hope
1419Lear
Say? How is that?
1420Regan
I cannot think my sister in the least
1421Would fail her obligation. If, sir, perchance
1422She have restrained the riots of your followers,
1423'Tis on such ground and to such wholesome end
1424As clears her from all blame.
My curses on her.
O sir, you are old,
1431That to our sister you do make return.
Ask her forgiveness?
Good sir, no more. These are unsightly tricks.
[Rising] No, Regan.
1446You taking airs, with lameness--
Fie, fie, sir.
You nimble lightnings dart your blinding flames
O the blest gods! 1453So will you wish on me
1232When the rash mood--
No Regan, thou shalt never have my curse.
1458To grudge my pleasures, to cut off my train,
Good sir, to th'purpose.
Who put my man i'th'stocks?
[Trumpet sounds.]
What trumpet's that?
Enter [Oswald the] steward.
I know't my sister's. This approves her letters
This is a slave, whose easy-borrowed pride
What means your grace?
1476Enter Goneril.
Who struck my servant? Regan I have good hope
Who comes here? O heavens!
1258Send down and take my part.
Why not by the hand, sir? How have I offended?
O sides, you are too tough.
I set him there, sir, but his own disorders
You? Did you?
I pray you, father, being weak, seem so.
Return to her, and fifty men dismissed?
[Indicating Oswald]
At your choice, sir.
Now, I prithee daughter, do not make me mad.
Not altogether so, sir. 1527I look not for you yet,
1304That mingle reason with your passion
Is this well spoken, now?
I dare avouch it, sir. What, fifty followers?
Why might not you, my lord, receive attendance
Why not, my lord? 1542If then they chanced to slack you,
I gave you all.
And in good time you gave it.
Made you my guardians, my depositories,
And speak't again, my lord, no more with me.
Those wicked creatures yet do seem well favored
Hear me, my lord.
What needs one?
Oh, reason not the need! Our basest beggars
1584[Storm and tempest]
1360Exeunt Lear, Gloucester, Kent, and Fool.
Let us withdraw. 'Twill be a storm.
This house is little. The old man and his people
'Tis his own blame; hath put himself from rest,
For his particular, I'll receive him gladly,
So am I purposed. 1595Where is my Lord of Gloucester?
Enter Gloucester.
Followed the old man forth--he is returned.
The king is in high rage 1600and will I know not whither.
'Tis good to give him way; he leads himself.
My lord, entreat him by no means to stay.
Alack, the night comes on, and the bleak winds
1605There's not a bush.
O sir, to willful men
Shut up your doors, my lord, 'tis a wild night.
1614[Scene 8]
What's here beside foul weather?
One minded like the weather, most unquietly.
I know you. Where's the King?
Contending with the fretful element;
But who is with him?
None but the Fool, who labors to out-jest
Sir, I do know you,
Wise in our negligence,
I will talk further with you.
No, do not.
Give me your hand. 1649Have you no more to say?
Few words but to effect more than all yet,
27Exeunt [separately].
1654[Scene 9]
Blow wind and crack your cheeks. Rage, blow.
O nuncle, court holy-water in a dry house 16661444is better than this rainwater out o'door. 1445Good nuncle 1667in, and ask thy daughters' blessing. 1446Here's a night pities 1668neither wise man nor fool.
Rumble thy bellyful. Spit fire, spout rain.
1677That have with two pernicious daughters joined
[Sings]
Before the head has 1459any,
1683The head and he shall louse,
So beggars marry many.
What he his heart should make,
And turn his sleep to wake.
No, I will be the pattern of all patience.
[He sits.]
Enter Kent [disguised].
Who's there?
Alas, sir, sit you here? 1470Things that love night
Let the great gods
Seeming 1710hast practised on man's life;
Alack, bare-headed?
1716Some friendship will it lend you 'gainst the tempest.
1720Denied me to come in, return and force
My wit begins to turn.
1500Fool and knave, I have one part of my heart
[Sings.]
He that has a little tiny wit,
1731Must make content with his fortunes fit,
True, my good boy. [To Kent] Come bring us to this hovel.
1734Fool
This is a brave night to cool a courtesan. 1735I'll speak a prophecy ere I go.
1736When priests are more in word than matter,
1737When brewers mar their malt with water,
1738When nobles are their tailors' tutors,
1739No heretics burned but wenches' suitors;
1740When every case in law is right,
1741No squire in debt, nor no poor knight;
1742When slanders do not live in tongues,
1743Nor cut-purses come not to throngs;
1744When usurers tell their gold i'th'field,
1745And bawds and whores do churches build;
1746Then shall the realm of Albion
Come to great confusion.
1747Then comes the time, who lives to see't,
1748That going shall be used with feet.
1749This prophecy Merlin shall make, for I live before his time.
1750Exit.
1751[Scene 10]
Alack, alack, Edmund, I like not this 1508unnatural 1754dealing. When I desired their leave 1509that I might pity him, 1755they took from me 1510the use of mine own house, charg'd 1756me, on pain 1511of their displeasure, neither to speak 1757of him, 1512entreat for him, nor any way sustain him.
Most savage and unnatural.
Go to, say you nothing. There's a division 1760betwixt the Dukes; 1515and a worse matter than that, I have 1761received 1516a letter this night--'tis dangerous to be spoken. 17621517I have locked the letter in my closet. These injuries 1518the 1763King now bears will be revenged home; 1519there's part of 1764a power already landed. 1520We must incline to the King. I 1765will seek him, and 1521privily relieve him. Go you and 1766maintain talk 1522with the Duke that my charity be not of 1767him 1523perceived. If he ask for me, I am ill, and gone 1524to 1768bed. Though I die for't, as no less is threatened me, 1525the King 1769my old master must be relieved. There is 1526some strange thing 1770toward. Edmund, pray you be careful.
Exit.
This courtesy forbid thee shall the Duke
1775The younger rises when the old do fall.
1776[Scene 11]
Here is the place, my lord. Good my lord, enter.
1780For nature to endure.
[Storm still]
Let me alone.
1782Kent
Good my lord, enter.
Wilt break my heart?
I had rather break mine own. 1785Good my lord, enter.
Thou think'st 'tis much that this contentious storm
1798To shut me out? Pour on. I will endure.
O Regan, Goneril, 1800your old kind father
Good my lord, enter.
Prithee go in thyself, seek thy own ease.
1807[To the Fool] In boy, go first. You houseless poverty--
1808Nay get thee in.
Exit [the Fool].
30I'll pray, and then I'll sleep.
1819Edgar
Fathom and half, fathom and half! Poor Tom.
Give me thy hand. Who's there?
A spirit. He says his name's Poor 1824Tom.
[Enter Edgar.]
Away, the foul fiend follows me. Through the 1828sharp 1572hawthorn blows the cold wind. Go to thy cold 1829bed and warm 1573thee.
Who gives anything to poor Tom, whom 1833the foul 1577fiend hath led through fire, and 1834through ford and 1578whirlpool, o'er bog and 1835quagmire; that has laid knives 1579under his pillow and halters 1836in his pew, set ratsbane by his pottage; 1580made him 1837proud of heart, to ride on a bay trotting-horse over 1581four-1838inched bridges; to course his own shadow for a traitor. 18391582Bless thy five wits. Tom's a-cold. 1840Bless thee from whirlwinds, 1583star-blasting, and 1841taking. Do poor Tom some charity, whom 1584the foul fiend 1842vexes. There could I have him now, and there, 1585and there 1843again.
[Storm still]
What? His daughters brought him to this pass?
Nay, he reserved a blanket, else we had been all 1847shamed.
Now all the plagues that in the pendulous air
He hath no daughters, sir.
Death, traitor! Nothing could have subdued nature
Pillicock sat on Pillicock's hill, a lo, lo, lo.
This cold night will turn us all to fools and 1859madmen.
Take heed o'th'foul fiend, obey thy 1861parents, keep thy 1601words justly, swear not, commit not 1862with man's sworn spouse, 1602set not thy sweet heart on 1863proud array. Tom's a-cold.
What hast thou been?
A servingman, proud in heart and mind, that 1866curled my 1605hair, wore gloves in my cap, served the lust 1867of my mistress's heart 1606and did the act of darkness with 1868her; swore as many oaths as I 1607spake words, and broke 1869them in the sweet face of heaven. One 1608that slept in the 1870contriving of lust and waked to do it. Wine 1609loved I 1871deeply, dice dearly, and in woman out-paramoured 1872the 1610Turk; false of heart, light of ear, bloody of hand; 1873hog in sloth, 1611fox in stealth, wolf in greediness, dog 1874in madness, lion 1612in prey. Let not the creaking of shoes 1875nor the rustlings of silks 1613betray thy poor heart to wo1876men. Keep thy foot out of 1614brothel, thy hand out of 1877placket, thy pen from lender's book, 1615and defy the 1878foul fiend. Still through the hawthorn blows the 18791616cold wind, heigh no nonny. Dolphin, my boy, 1880my boy. Cease! 1617Let him trot by.
[Storm still]
Why, thou wert better in thy grave than to answer 18821619with thy uncovered body this extremity of the skies. Is 1883man no 1620more but this? Consider him well. Thou owest 1884the worm no silk, 1621the beast no hide, the sheep no 1885wool, the cat no perfume. Here's 1622three on's are 1886sophisticated; thou art the thing itself. 16231887Unaccommodated man is no more but such a poor bare forked 1888animal 1624as thou art. Off, off, you lendings. [Attempts to take off his clothes] Come, 1889unbutton--
Prithee, nuncle, be content. This is a naughty 1892night to 1626swim in. Now a little fire in a wild field 1893were like an old letcher's 1627heart, a small spark, all the rest 1894in's body cold. Look, here comes 1628a walking fire.
1890Enter Gloucester [with a torch].
This is the foul fiend Flibbertigibet. He begins at 18961630curfew and walks till the first cock. He gives the web 1897and the pin, 1631squinies the eye, and makes the harelip; 1898mildews the white 1632wheat and hurts the poor 1899creature of earth.
[Sings.]
1901He met the nightmare and her ninefold,
And her troth plight,
1903And aroint thee, witch, aroint thee.
How fares your grace?
What's he?
Who's there? What is't you seek?
What are you there? Your names?
Poor Tom, that eats the swimming frog, the 1909toad, the 1640tadpole, the wall-newt, and the water; that 1910in the fury of his 1641heart, when the foul fiend rages, eats 1911cow dung for salads, 1642swallows the old rat and the 1912ditch dog; drinks the green 1643mantle of the standing 1913pool; who is whipped from tithing to tithing, 1644and 1914stock-punished and imprisoned; who hath had three suits 1915to 1645his back, six shirts to his body.
What, hath your grace no better company?
Our flesh and blood is grown so 1924vile, my lord,
That it 1654doth hate what gets it.
Poor Tom's a-cold.
[To Lear] Go in with me. My duty cannot suffer
1929And let this tyrannous night take hold upon you,
First let me talk with this philosopher.
My good lord, take his offer. 1935Go into the house.
I'll talk a word with this most learnèd Theban.
How to prevent the fiend, and to kill vermin.
Let me ask you one word in private.
[To Gloucester] Importune him [once more] to go, my lord. 1941His wits
Begin to unsettle.
Canst thou blame him?
[Storm still]
Oh, cry you mercy. 1953Noble philosopher, your company.
Tom's a-cold.
In fellow. There, in th'hovel, keep thee warm.
Come, let's in all.
This way, my lord.
With him.
1959I will keep still with my philosopher.
[To Gloucester] Good my lord, soothe him. 1961Let him take the fellow.
Take him you on.
Sirrah, come on. Go along with us.
Come, good Athenian.
No words, no words, hush.
Childe Rowland to the dark town come,
31[Exeunt.]
1969[Scene 12]
I will have my revenge ere I depart the house.
How, my lord, I may be censured, that nature 1973thus gives 1696way to loyalty, something fears me to 1974think of.
I now perceive it was not altogether your 1976brother's 1698evil disposition made him seek his death, but 1977a provoking merit 1699set a-work by a reprovable badness 1978in himself.
How malicious is my fortune that I must 1980repent to be 1701just! This is the letter he spoke of, 1981which approves him an 1702intelligent party to the 1982advantages of France. O heavens, that his 1703treason were not, 1983or not I the detector!
Go with me to the duchess.
True or false, it hath made thee Earl of 1988Gloucester. Seek 1708out where thy father is, that he may be 1989ready for our 1709apprehension.
[Aside] If I find him comforting the King, it will stuff 1991his 1711suspicion more fully. [Aloud] I will persevere in my course of 1992loyalty, 1712though the conflict be sore between that and 1993my blood.
32Exeunt.
1996[Scene 13]
19971715Enter Gloucester and Lear, [with] Kent, [disguised, the] Fool, and [Edgar disguised as Poor] Tom.
Here is better than the open air. Take it 1999thankfully. I 1717will piece out the comfort with what addition I 2000can. I will not be 1718long from you.
[Exit Gloucester.]
Frateretto calls me, and tells me Nero is an 2005angler in the 1722lake of darkness. Pray, innocent. Beware 2006the foul fiend.
Lear
33.3A king, a king.
2010Fool
Lear
The foul fiend bites my back.
He's mad that trusts in the tameness of a wolf, 2014.3a 1729horse's health, a boy's love, or a whore's oath.
It shall be done. I will arraign them straight.
[Sings.]
Come o'er the burn Bessy, to me.
[Sings.]
The foul fiend haunts poor Tom in the voice of a nightingale. 2014.121738Hoppedance cries in Tom's belly for two white herring. 2014.131739Croak not, black angel, I have no food for thee.
I'll see their trial first. Bring in their evidence. [To Edgar] Thou 2014.171743robed man of justice, take thy place; [To the Fool] and thou, his yokefellow of 2014.181744equity, bench by his side. [To Kent] You are o'th'commission, sit you too.
Let us deal justly.
[Sings]
Sleepest or wakest, thou jolly shepherd,
Thy sheep shall take no harm.
Purr, the cat is gray.
Arraign her first. 'Tis Goneril. I here take my oath before 2014.231749this honorable assembly she kicked the poor king her father.
Come hither, mistress. Is your name Goneril?
She cannot deny it.
Cry you mercy, I took you for a join-stool.
And here's another whose warped looks proclaim,
Bless thy five wits.
Oh, pity! Sir, where is the patience now,
[Aside] My tears begin to take his part so much
The little dogs and all,
Tom will throw his head at them. Avaunt, you 2023curs!
1765Be thy mouth or black or white,
2024Tooth that poisons if it bite,
2026Hound or spaniel, brach, or him,
2028Tom will make them weep and wail,
2031Loudla doodla, come march to wakes and fairs and 20321770market towns. Poor Tom, thy horn is dry.
Then let them anatomize Regan, see what 2034breeds about her 1772heart. Is there any cause in nature that 2035makes this hardness? 1773[To Edgar] You, sir, I entertain you for one of 2036my hundred, 1774only I do not like the fashion of your 2037garments. You'll say 1775they are Persian attire, but let them be 2038changed.
Now, good my lord, lie here awhile.
Make no noise, make no noise, draw the 2042curtains, so, so, so. 1778We'll go to supper i'th'morning, so, so, so.
33[He sleeps.]
Fool
33.5And I'll go to bed at noon.
2039Enter Gloucester.
Come hither, friend. 2045Where is the King, my master?
Here, sir, but trouble him not. His wits are gone.
Good friend, I prithee take him in thy arms.
2051Both welcome and protection. Take up thy master.
2055And follow me, that will to some provision
Oppressèd nature sleeps.
Thou must not stay behind.
Come, come away.
Exeunt [all but Edgar].
When we our betters see bearing our woes
2057[Scene 14]
[To Goneril] Post speedily to my lord your husband. Show 2061him this letter. 1810The army of France is landed. [To a servant] Seek out the 2062villain Gloucester.
[Exit servant.]
Hang him instantly.
Pluck out his eyes.
Leave him to my displeasure. Edmund, keep 2066you our sister company. 1814The revenge we are bound to 2067take upon your traitorous father 1815are not fit for your 2068beholding. Advise the Duke where you are going, 1816to a 2069most festinate preparation. We are bound to the like. 1817Our 2070post shall be swift and intelligent betwixt us. 18182071Farewell dear sister. Farewell my lord of Gloucester.
[The Bastard and Goneril start to leave.]
2072Enter [Oswald the] steward.
My lord of Gloucester hath conveyed him hence.
2078Are gone with him towards Dover, where they boast
[To Oswald] Get horses for your mistress.
[Exit Oswald]
Farewell, sweet lord, and sister.
Edmund farewell.
Exeunt Goneril and [the] Bastard..
[To servants] Go seek the traitor Gloucester.
[Exeunt servants.]
Ingrateful fox, 'tis he.
[To servants] Bind fast his corky arms.
What means your graces? 2093Good my friends, consider,
Bind him, I say.
[They bind him.]
Hard, hard. O filthy traitor!
Unmerciful lady as you are, I am true.
To this chair bind him. 2099Villain, thou shalt find--
[Regan plucks hairs from Gloucester's beard.]
By the kind gods, 'tis most ignobly done,
2102Regan
So white and such a traitor?
Naughty lady.
2104These hairs which thou dost ravish from my chin
Come, sir. 2109What letters had you late from France?
Be simple, answerer, for we know the truth.
And what confederacy have you with
To whose hands 2114you have sent the lunatic King.
Speak.
I have a letter guessingly set down
Cunning.
2119Regan
And false.
Where hast thou sent the King?
2121Gloucester
To Dover.
Wherefore to Dover? 2123Wast thou not charged at peril--
Wherefore to Dover? Let him first answer that.
I am tied to th'stake, 2126and I must stand the course.
Wherefore to Dover, sir?
Because I would not see thy cruel nails
1868He helped the heavens to rage.
See't shalt thou never. Fellows, hold the chair.
He that will think to live till he be old
[Cornwall puts out one of Gloucester's eyes.]
Oh, cruel! O ye gods!
One side will mock another. T'other too.
If you see vengeance--
Hold your hand, my lord.
2148Than now to bid you hold.
How now, you dog!
If you did wear a beard upon your chin
My villein!
Why then, come on, and take the chance of anger.
Draw and fight. [Cornwall is wounded.]
[To another servant] Give me thy sword. A peasant stand up thus?
Oh, I am slain, my lord. Yet have you one eye left
[He dies.]
Lest it see more, prevent it. Out vile jelly.
[Puts out Gloucester's other eye.]
All dark and comfortless. 2161Where's my son, Edmund?
2163To quite this horrid act.
Out, villain,
2165Thou call'st on him that hates thee. It was he
Oh my follies! Then Edgar was abused.
Go thrust him out at gates, and let him smell
[Exeunt servant with Gloucester.]
2172How is't my lord? How look you?
I have received a hurt. Follow me, lady.
I'll never care what wickedness I do
If she live long,
Women will all turn monsters.
Let's follow the old earl and get the bedlam
Go thou. I'll fetch some flax and whites of eggs
2177[Scene 15]
Yet better thus, and known to be contemned,
2185Thou unsubstantial air that I embrace.
2186The wretch that thou hast blown unto the worst
2187Owes nothing to thy blasts.
2188Enter Gloucester, led by an Old Man.
[Edgar stands aside.]
O my good lord, I have been your tenant,
Away, get thee away. Good friend, be gone.
Alack, sir, you cannot see your way.
I have no way and therefore want no eyes;
How now, who's there?
[Aside] O gods! Who is't can say "I am at the worst"?
'Tis poor mad Tom.
[Aside] And worse I may be yet. The worst is not
[To Edgar] Fellow, where goest?
Is it a beggar man?
Madman, and beggar too.
'A has some reason, else he could not beg.
[Aside] How should this be?
2225Angering itself and others. [Aloud] Bless thee master.
Is that the naked fellow?
Ay, my lord.
Then prithee get thee gone. If for my sake
Alack sir, he is mad.
'Tis the time's plague 2235when madmen lead the blind.
I'll bring him the best 'parel that I have,
[Exit.]
Sirrah, naked fellow.
Poor Tom's a cold. [Aside] I cannot dance it farther.
Come hither, fellow.
Know'st thou the way to Dover?
Both stile and gate, horse-way, and footpath, 22471975poor Tom hath been scared out of his good wits. 1976Bless 2248the good man from the foul fiend. 2248.11977Five fiends have been in poor Tom at once: 2248.21978of lust, as Obidicut; Hobbididence, Prince of darkness; 2248.31979Mahu of stealing, Modo of murder, Flibbertigibbet, of 2248.41980mocking and mowing, who since possesses chambermaids 2248.51981and waiting women. So bless thee master.
Here, take this purse, thou whom the heavens' plagues
Ay, master.
There is a cliff, whose high and bending head
2263I shall no leading need.
Give me thy arm.
2265Poor Tom shall lead thee.
38[Exeunt.]
2266[Scene 16]
Welcome, my lord. I marvel our mild husband
Now, where's your master?
Madam, within, but never man so changed.
2273His answer was "The worse." Of Gloucester's treachery
2276And told me I had turned the wrong side out.
[To the Bastard] Then shall you go no further.
[Gives him a favor of some kind.]
[She kisses him.]
This kiss, if it durst speak,
Yours in the ranks of death.
[Exit.]
My most dear Gloucester.
2295Oh, the difference of man and man.
2296To thee a woman's services are due--
Madam, here comes my lord.
Exit [Oswald the] steward.
2299[Enter Albany.]
I have been worth the whistling.
O Goneril,
2302You are not worth the dust which the rude wind
No more, the text is foolish.
Wisdom and goodness to the vile seem vile.
Milk-livered man,
France spreads his banners in our noiseless land,
See thyself, devil.
2310So horrid as in woman.
O vain fool!
Thou changèd, and self-covered thing, for shame,
Marry, your manhood?--mew!
2312Enter a Gentleman.
What news?
O my good lord, the Duke of Cornwall's dead,
2315The other eye of Gloucester.
Gloucester's eyes?
A servant that he bred, thralled with remorse,
This shows you are above, 2324you justicers,
Both, both, my lord. 2328[To Goneril] This letter, madam, craves
2330Goneril
[Aside] One way I like this well;
Exit [Goneril].
Where was his son 2336when they did take his eyes?
Come with my lady hither.
2338Albany
He is not here?
No, my good lord, I met him back again.
Knows he the wickedness?
Ay, my good lord, 'twas he informed against him,
Gloucester, I live
2345To thank thee for the love thou showed'st the king,
39Exeunt.
17.0.2[This scene is not in the Folio text.]
2095Enter Kent [disguised] and a Gentleman.
Something he left imperfect in the state, which since his 2347.52099coming forth is thought of; which imports to the kingdom 2347.62100so much fear and danger that his personal return was most 2347.72101required and necessary.
Who hath he left behind him general?
The Marshal of France, Monsieur la Far.
Did your letters pierce the queen to any demonstration of grief?
I say she took them, read them in my presence,
Sought to be king o'er her.
Oh, then it moved her.
Not to a rage; patience and sorrow strove
Made she no verbal question?
Faith, once or twice she heaved the name of "father"
It is the stars,
The stars above us govern our conditions,
No.
Kent
Was this before the King returned?
No, since.
Well, sir, the poor distressèd Lear's i'th'town,
Will yield to see his daughter.
Why, good sir?
A sovereign shame so elbows him. His own unkindness
Shame detains him from Cordelia.
Alack, poor gentleman.
Of Albany's and Cornwall's powers you heard not?
'Tis so. They are afoot.
Well, sir, I'll bring you to our master Lear,
2348[Scene 18]
Alack, 'tis he. Why, he was met even now,
[Exit attendant.]
What can man's wisdom
There is means, madam.
All blest secrets,
2367All you unpublished virtues of the earth,
2372Enter [a] messenger.
News, madam.
2374The British powers are marching hitherward.
'Tis known before. Our preparation stands
[Scene 19]
But are my brother's powers set forth?
Ay, madam.
2386Regan
Himself in person?
Madam, with much ado.
2388Your sister is the better soldier.
Lord Edmund spake not with your lady at home?
No, madam.
What might import my sister's letters to him?
I know not, lady.
Faith, he is posted hence on serious matter.
2399The strength o'th'army.
I must needs after him with my letters.
Our troop sets forth tomorrow; stay with us.
I may not, madam.
Why should she write to Edmund? 2406Might not you
2199Transport her purposes by word? Belike--
Madam I'd rather--
I know your lady does not love her husband--
I, madam?
I speak in understanding, for I know't.
Would I could meet him, madam, I would show
Fare thee well.
43Exeunt [separately].
2429[Scene 20]
When shall we come to th'top of that same hill?
You do climb it up now. Look how we labor.
Methinks the ground is even.
Horrible steep. 2435Hark, do you hear the sea?
No, truly.
Why, then your other senses grow imperfect
So may it be, indeed.
Y'are much deceived. In nothing am I changed
Methinks y'are better spoken.
Come on sir, 2446here's the place. Stand still. How fearful
Set me where you stand.
Give me your hand. 2462You are now within a foot
2252Would I not leap upright.
Let go my hand.
[Pretending to leave] Now fare you well, good sir.
With all my heart.
[Aside] Why I do trifle thus with his despair
2472Is done to cure it.
O you mighty gods--
He kneels.
He falls [forward].
Gone, sir; farewell.
2483The treasury of life, when life itself
2486[Aloud] Ho, you sir. Hear you sir? Speak.
2488[Aloud] What are you, sir?
Away, and let me die.
Hadst thou been aught 2491but gossamer, feathers, air,
But have I fallen or no?
From the dread summit of this chalky bourn,
Alack, I have no eyes.
Give me your arm.
Too well, too well.
This is above all strangeness.
A poor unfortunate beggar.
As I stood here below, methought his eyes
I do remember now. Henceforth I'll bear
Bear free and patient thoughts. But who comes here?
2529His master thus.
No, they cannot touch me for coining. I am the 2531King himself.
Oh, thou side-piercing sight!
Nature is above art in that respect. There's your 2534press-2315money. That fellow handles his bow like a 2535crow-keeper. Draw me 2316a clothier's yard. Look, look, a 2536mouse! Peace, peace. This toasted 2317cheese will 2537do it. There's my gauntlet; I'll prove it on a giant. 2538Bring 2318up the brown bills. Oh, well flown, bird, 2539in the air, ha! Give 2319the word.
2540Edgar
Sweet marjoram.
Pass.
2542Gloucester
I know that voice.
Ha, Goneril! Ha, Regan! They flattered 2544me like a dog 2322and told me I had white hairs in 2545my beard ere the black ones 2323were there. To say "ay" and 2546"no" to everything I said "ay" and "no" to 2324was no good 2547divinity. When the rain came to wet me once, and 2325the 2548wind to make me chatter; when the thunder would not 25492326peace at my bidding--there I found them, there I smelt them 2550out. 2327Go to, they are not men of their words; they told 2551me I was 2328everything. 'Tis a lie. I am not ague-proof.
The trick of that voice I do well remember.
Ay, every inch a king.
There's hell, there's 2570darkness, 2343there's the sulphury pit, burning, scalding, stench, 2571consummation. 2344Fie, fie, fie, pah, pah! Give me an ounce of 2572civet, good 2345apothecary, to sweeten my imagination. 2573There's money for thee.
Oh, let me kiss that hand.
Here, wipe it first. 2576It smells of mortality.
O ruined piece of nature! This great world
I remember thy eyes well enough. Dost thou 2581squinny on 2351me? No, do thy worst, blind Cupid, I'll not 2582love. Read thou that 2352challenge; mark the penning 2583of't.
Were all the letters suns I could not see one.
[Aside] I would not take this from report. 2586It is,
2587Lear
Read.
2588Gloucester
What? With the case of eyes?
Oh ho, are you there with me? No eyes in your 2590head, nor 2357no money in your purse? Your eyes are in a 2591heavy case, your purse 2358in a light, yet you see how this world 2592goes.
I see it feelingly.
What, art mad? A man may see how the world 2595goes with 2361no eyes. Look with thy ears. See how 2596yon justice rails upon 2362yon simple thief? Hark in 2597thy ear--handy-dandy, which is the 25982363thief, which is the justice? Thou hast seen a 2599farmer's dog bark 2364at a beggar?
2600Gloucester
Ay, sir.
And the creature run from the cur? There thou 2602mightst 2366behold the great image of authority: a dog's 2603obeyed in office.
Thy blood hotly lusts to use 2369her in that kind
For which 2606thou whip'st her.
The usurer hangs the 2370cozener.
2607Through tattered rags small vices do appear;
[Aside] Oh, matter and impertinency mixed;
2617Reason in madness.
If thou wilt weep my fortune, take my eyes.
2622We wail and cry. I will preach to thee. Mark me.
Alack, alack the day.
When we are born, we cry that we are come 2625to this 2381great stage of fools.--This' a good block. 2626It were a delicate 2382stratagem to shoe 2627a troop of horse with felt, 2628and when I have stolen 2383upon these son-in-laws, 2629then kill, kill, kill, kill, kill, kill.
Oh, here he is. Lay hands upon him, sirs.
2632Your most dear--
No rescue? What, a prisoner? I am e'en
2636I am cut to the brains.
You shall have anything.
Lear
51No seconds? All myself? 2639Why, this would make a man 2391of salt 2640to use his eyes for garden water-pots, a46y, and laying autumn's 2392dust.
[1] Gentleman
Good sir--
Lear
52I will die bravely 2641like a bridegroom. What? I will be 2394jovial. 2642Come, come, I am a king, my masters, know you that?
You are a royal one, and we obey you.
Exit King [Lear], running, [pursued by two gentlemen].
A sight most pitiful in the meanest wretch,
2649Which twain hath brought her to.
Hail, gentle sir.
Sir, speed you. What's your will?
Do you hear aught of a battle toward?
Most sure and vulgar. 2654Everyone hears that,
2405That can distinguish sense.
But, by your favor, 2656how near's the other army?
Near and on speedy foot. The main descry
I thank you, sir. That's all.
Though that the queen on special cause is here,
2662Edgar
I thank you, sir.
Exit [Gentleman].
You ever gentle gods take my breath from me.
2666Edgar
Well pray you, father.
Now, good sir, what are you?
A most poor man made lame by fortune's blows,
Hearty thanks.
2673The bounty and benison of heaven
2675Enter [Oswald, the] steward.
A proclaimed prize! Most happy.
2679Briefly thyself remember. The sword is out
Now let thy friendly hand
2682Put strength enough to't.
[Edgar steps between them.]
Wherefore, bold peasant,
2685Lest the infection of his fortune take
Chill not let go, sir, 2688without 'cagion.
Let go, slave, or thou diest.
Good gentleman go your gait. Let poor 2691volk pass. 2433An 'chud have been swaggered out of my life, 2692it would not have 2434been so long by a vortnight. Nay 2693come not near the old man. 2435Keep out, che vor ye, or I'll 2694try whether your costard or my 2436baton be the harder. 2695I'll be plain with you.
Out, dunghill!
They fight.
Chill pick your teeth, sir. Come, no matter for 2698your foins.
[Edgar knocks him down.]
Slave, thou hast slain me. Villain, take my purse.
2443The British party. Oh, untimely death! Death.
He dies.
I know thee well. A serviceable villain,
2706As badness would desire.
What, is he dead?
Sit you down, father; rest you.
[Gloucester sits.]
2712Leave, gentle wax, and manners blame us not.
2715[Reads] a letter.
27162453"Let your reciprocal vows be remembered. You have many 27172454opportunities to cut him off. If your will want not, time and 2718place 2455will be fruitfully offered. There is nothing done if he 2719return the 2456conqueror, then am I the prisoner and his bed my 2720jail, from 2457the loathed warmth whereof deliver me and supply 2721the place for 2458your labor.
2722Your wife--so I would say--your 2723affectionate servant47.2, 2459and for you her own for venture,47.3
Goneril."
The King is mad. 2733How stiff is my vile sense
2737A drum afar off
Give me your hand.
2741Far off methinks I hear the beaten drum.
2743[Scene 21]
O thou good Kent, 2746how shall I live and work
2749And every measure fail me.
To be acknowledged, madam, is o'er-paid.
Be better suited.
2755I prithee put them off.
Pardon me, dear madam;
Then be't so, my good lord. [To the doctor] 2761How does the King?
Madam, sleeps still.
O you kind gods,
2764Cure this great breach in his abusèd nature;
So please your majesty
Be governed by your knowledge and proceed
Ay, madam. In the heaviness of his sleep
Good madam, be by when we do awake him.
Very well.
Please you draw near. Louder the music there.
[Lear is discovered, or carried in, asleep.]
O my dear father, restoration hang
2778Repair those violent harms that my two sisters
Kind and dear princess.
Had you not been their father, these white flakes
Madam, do you. 'Tis fittest.
How does my royal lord? 2793How fares your majesty?
You do me wrong to take me out o'th'grave.
Sir, know me.
Y'are a spirit, I know. Where did you die?
Still, still, far wide.
He's scarce awake. 2802Let him alone a while.
Where have I been? 2804Where am I? Fair daylight?
2809Of my condition.
[Kneeling] O look upon me, sir,
[Lear attempts to kneel.]
No, sir, 2812you must not kneel.
Pray do not mock.
2826Cordelia
And so I am.
Be your tears wet? 2828Yes, faith. I pray weep not.
No cause, no cause.
2834Lear
Am I in France?
In your own kingdom, sir.
Do not abuse me.
Be comforted, good madam. The great rage
Desire him to go in. 2839Trouble him no more
Till 2559further settling.
Will't please your highness walk?
You must bear with me. 2842Pray now, forget and forgive.
56Exeunt. Kent and [the] gentleman [remain].
Holds it true, sir, that the Duke of Cornwall was so slain?
Most certain, sir.
Who is conductor of his people?
As 'tis said, the bastard son of Gloucester.
Report is changeable. 'Tis time to look about.
The arbitrament is like to be bloody. Fare you well, sir.
[Exit.]
My point and period will be throughly wrought,
2844[Scene 22]
[To an officer] Know of the Duke if his last purpose hold,
[Exit officer.]
Our sister's man is certainly miscarried.
'Tis to be doubted, madam.
Now, sweet lord,
2857Bastard
Ay, honored love.
But have you never found my brother's way
57.1Bastard
That thought abuses you.
I am doubtful that you have been conjunct and
No, by mine honor, madam.
I never shall endure her. Dear my lord,
2862Be not familiar with her.
Fear me not.--
She and the Duke her husband.
[Aside] I had rather
58Him and me.
Our very loving sister, well be-met.
2602Bastard
Sir, you speak nobly.
2869Regan
Why is this reasoned?
Combine together 'gainst the enemy,
Let us then determine
2874.1Bastard
I shall attend you presently at your tent.
59[Exit the Bastard with his men.]
Sister, you'll go with us?
2876Goneril
No.
'Tis most convenient. Pray you go with us.
[Aside] Oh ho, I know the riddle.--I will go.
2880Enter Edgar, [disguised, speaking to Albany as he is leaving.]
If ere your grace had speech with man so poor,
Exeunt [all but Albany and Edgar].
[To those leaving] I'll overtake you. [To Edgar] Speak.
Before you fight the battle, ope this letter.
2891Albany
Stay till I have read the letter.
I was forbid it.
2894And I'll appear again.
Why fare thee well, I will o'erlook the paper.
Exit [Edgar].
The enemy's in view. Draw up your powers.
2900Is now urged on you.
We will greet the time.
Exit.
To both these sisters have I sworn my love,
2905Both? One? Or neither? Neither can be enjoyed
55Exit.
2917[Scene 23]
29182643Alarum. Enter the powers of France over the stage, Cordelia with 29192644her father [Lear] in her hand. [They pass over the stage and exeunt.]
Here, father, take the shadow of this bush
Exit [Edgar].
Grace go with you, sir.
2926Alarum and retreat [within].
2927[Re-enter Edgar.]
Away, old man, give me thy hand, away!
No farther sir, a man may rot even here.
What, in ill thoughts again? 2933Men must endure
2936Gloucester
And that's true too.
56[Exeunt.]
2937[Scene 24]
29382657Enter [the Bastard] Edmund, with Lear 2939and Cordelia prisoners, [a captain, and soldiers].
Some officers take them away. Good guard,
We are not the first
2945For thee, oppressèd king am I cast down;
No, no. Come, let's away to prison.
[To soldiers] Take them away.
Upon such sacrifices, my Cordelia,
[Embracing Cordelia]
2963Have I caught thee?
Come.
[Exeunt Lear and Cordelia, guarded.]
Come hither captain, hark. [Handing him a paper]
I'll do't, my lord.
About it, and write "happy" when thou hast done.
I cannot draw a cart, nor eat dried oats.
61[Exit the captain.]
[To the Bastard] Sir, you have showed today your valiant strain,
Sir, I thought it fit
2715The friend hath lost his friend, and the best quarrels
Sir, by your patience,
3000Not as a brother.
That's as we list to grace him.
Not so hot.
3008In his own grace he doth exalt himself
In my right,
3011By me invested, he compeers the best.
That were the most, if he should husband you.
Jesters do oft prove prophets.
Hola, hola!
3015That eye that told you so looked but asquint.
Lady, I am not well, else I should answer
3019Dispose of them, of me. The walls are thine.
Mean you to enjoy him then?
The let-alone lies not in your good will.
Nor in thine, lord.
Half-blooded fellow, yes.
Let the drum strike, and prove my title good.
Stay yet, hear reason. Edmund, I arrest thee
3035Goneril
An interlude!
Albany
[Throwing down a glove]
Sick, oh sick.
[Aside] If not, I'll ne'er trust poison.
[Throwing down a glove] There's my exchange. What in the world he is
A herald, ho!
63Bastard
A herald, ho, a herald!63.1
3050[Enter a herald.]
[To the Bastard] Trust to thy single virtue, for thy soldiers,
3054Took their discharge.
This sickness grows upon me.
She is not well. Convey her to my tent.
[Exit Regan, supported.]
3058.12 Captain
Sound trumpet!
[Trumpet sounds]
[Reads]
2774Bastard
Sound!
[Trumpet sounds]
3064Again!
[Trumpet sounds]
Ask him his purposes; why he appears
What are you? 3071Your name and quality,
Oh, know my name is lost, 3074by treason's tooth
To cope withal?
Which is that adversary?
What's he that speaks for Edmund, Earl of Gloucester?
Himself. What sayest thou to him?
Draw thy sword,
[Draws his sword.]
3095To prove upon thy heart whereto I speak
3096Thou liest.
In wisdom I should ask thy name,
3100What safe and nicely I might well delay
[Trumpet sounds. They fight, and the Bastard is wounded.]
[To Edgar] Save him, save him.
This is mere practice, Gloucester.
3111But cozened and beguiled.
Stop your mouth, dame,
3114[Giving her the letter] Thou worse than anything, read thine own evil.
Say if I do, the laws are mine not thine.
3117Who shall arraign me for't?
Most monstrous! [To Goneril] Know'st thou this paper?
Ask me not what I know.
Exit Goneril.
[To an attendant] Go after her. She's desperate--govern her.
[Exit attendant.]
What you have charged me with, 3122that have I done,
Let's exchange charity.
Thou hast spoken truth. 3136The wheel is come
2834Full circle; I am here.
[To Edgar] Methought thy very gait did prophesy,
Hate thee or thy father.
Worthy prince, I know't.
Where have you hid yourself?
By nursing them, my lord. 2842List a brief tale,
3152Met I my father with his bleeding rings,
This speech of yours hath moved me,
If there be more, more woeful, hold it in,
3168Hearing of this.
This would have seemed a period to such
But who was this?
Kent sir, the banished Kent, who in disguise,
Help, help!
What kind of help? 3173What means that bloody knife?
It's hot, it smokes. It came even from the heart 3175of--
Who, man? Speak!
Your lady, sir, your lady; and her sister
I was contracted to them both. All three
Produce their bodies, be they alive or dead.
[Exit Gentleman.]
3181Edgar
Here comes Kent, sir.
3182Enter Kent [as himself].
2895Albany
Oh, 'tis he. 3187The time will not allow
I am come 3190to bid my king and master aye good night.
Great thing of us forgot.
The bodies of Goneril and Regan are brought in.
Alack, why thus?
Yet Edmund was beloved.
3199Albany
Even so. Cover their faces.
I pant for life. Some good I mean to do
3205Albany
Run, run, Oh run!
To who my lord? Who hath the office? 3207[To the Bastard] Send
2912Thy token of reprieve.
Well thought on. Take my sword. The Captain,
3210Albany
Haste thee for thy life.
[Exit 2 Captain.]
He hath commission from thy wife and me
The gods defend her. Bear him hence awhile.
[The Bastard is carried off.]
Howl, howl, howl, howl! Oh, you are men of stones.
3224Kent
Is this the promised end?
Or image of that horror?
3226Albany
Fall and cease.
This feather stirs--she lives. If it be so,
3230Kent
Ah, my good master.
Prithee, away.
3232Edgar
'Tis noble Kent, your friend.
A plague upon you, murderous traitors all.
'Tis true, my lords, he did.
Did I not, fellow?
If fortune bragged of two she loved or hated,
3247Lear
Are not you Kent?
The same; your servant Kent. 3249Where is your servant Caius?
He's a good fellow, I can tell that.
No, my good lord, I am the very man--
I'll see that straight.
That from your life of difference and decay
3256Lear
You're welcome hither.
Nor no man else. 3258All's cheerless, dark, and deadly.
3261Lear
So think I too.
He knows not what he sees, and vain it is
3265Edgar
Very bootless.
Enter [3] Captain.
Edmund is dead, my lord.
That's but a trifle here.
3269What comfort to this decay may come
3271During the life of this old majesty
3275Taste the wages of their virtue, and all foes
And my poor fool is hanged. No, no life.
3280Never, never, never.
O, o, o, o.
3284Edgar
He faints. My lord, my lord!
Break heart, I prithee break.
[He dies.]
3286Edgar
Look up, my lord.
Vex not his ghost. O let him pass. 2973He hates him
3289Stretch him out longer.
Oh, he is gone indeed.
The wonder is he hath endured so long;
Bear them from hence. Our present business
I have a journey, sir, shortly to go.
The weight of this sad time we must obey,
3302[Exeunt with a dead march, bearing the bodies.]