Ay, as the rocks cheer them that fear their wreck: To see this sight, it irks my very soul. Withhold revenge, dear God! 'tis not my fault, Nor wittingly have I infringed my vow.

My gracious liege, this too much lenity And harmful pity must be laid aside. To whom do lions cast their gentle looks? Not to the beast that would usurp their den.


My gracious liege, this too much lenity And harmful pity must be laid aside. To whom do lions cast their gentle looks? Not to the beast that would usurp their den.

Whose hand is that the forest bear doth lick? Not his that spoils her young before her face. Who 'scapes the lurking serpent's mortal sting? Not he that sets his foot upon her back.


Whose hand is that the forest bear doth lick? Not his that spoils her young before her face. Who 'scapes the lurking serpent's mortal sting? Not he that sets his foot upon her back.

The smallest worm will turn being trodden on, And doves will peck in safeguard of their brood. Ambitious York doth level at thy crown, Thou smiling while he knit his angry brows:


The smallest worm will turn being trodden on, And doves will peck in safeguard of their brood. Ambitious York doth level at thy crown, Thou smiling while he knit his angry brows:

He, but a duke, would have his son a king, And raise his issue, like a loving sire;


He, but a duke, would have his son a king, And raise his issue, like a loving sire;

Thou, being a king, blest with a goodly son, Didst yield consent to disinherit him, Which argued thee a most unloving father. Unreasonable creatures feed their young;


Thou, being a king, blest with a goodly son, Didst yield consent to disinherit him, Which argued thee a most unloving father. Unreasonable creatures feed their young;

For shame, my liege, make them your precedent! Ah, what a shame were this! Look on the boy;


For shame, my liege, make them your precedent! Ah, what a shame were this! Look on the boy;

And let his manly face, which promiseth Successful fortune, steel thy melting heart To hold thine own and leave thine own with him.


And let his manly face, which promiseth Successful fortune, steel thy melting heart To hold thine own and leave thine own with him.

Full well hath Clifford play'd the orator, Inferring arguments of mighty force. But, Clifford, tell me, didst thou never hear That things ill-got had ever bad success?


Full well hath Clifford play'd the orator, Inferring arguments of mighty force. But, Clifford, tell me, didst thou never hear That things ill-got had ever bad success?

And happy always was it for that son Whose father for his hoarding went to hell? I'll leave my son my virtuous deeds behind; And would my father had left me no more!


And happy always was it for that son Whose father for his hoarding went to hell? I'll leave my son my virtuous deeds behind; And would my father had left me no more!

For all the rest is held at such a rate As brings a thousand-fold more care to keep Than in possession and jot of pleasure. Ah, cousin York!


For all the rest is held at such a rate As brings a thousand-fold more care to keep Than in possession and jot of pleasure. Ah, cousin York!

would thy best friends did know How it doth grieve me that thy head is here!


would thy best friends did know How it doth grieve me that thy head is here!

My lord, cheer up your spirits: our foes are nigh, And this soft courage makes your followers faint. You promised knighthood to our forward son: Unsheathe your sword, and dub him presently.


My lord, cheer up your spirits: our foes are nigh, And this soft courage makes your followers faint. You promised knighthood to our forward son: Unsheathe your sword, and dub him presently.


Edward Plantagenet, arise a knight; And learn this lesson, draw thy sword in right.


Edward Plantagenet, arise a knight; And learn this lesson, draw thy sword in right.

My gracious father, by your kingly leave, I'll draw it as apparent to the crown, And in that quarrel use it to the death.


My gracious father, by your kingly leave, I'll draw it as apparent to the crown, And in that quarrel use it to the death.

Why, that is spoken like a toward prince.


Why, that is spoken like a toward prince.

Royal commanders, be in readiness: For with a band of thirty thousand men Comes Warwick, backing of the Duke of York; And in the towns, as they do march along, Proclaims him king, and many fly to him:


Royal commanders, be in readiness: For with a band of thirty thousand men Comes Warwick, backing of the Duke of York; And in the towns, as they do march along, Proclaims him king, and many fly to him:

Darraign your battle, for they are at hand.


Darraign your battle, for they are at hand.

I would your highness would depart the field: The queen hath best success when you are absent.


I would your highness would depart the field: The queen hath best success when you are absent.

Ay, good my lord, and leave us to our fortune.


Ay, good my lord, and leave us to our fortune.

Why, that's my fortune too; therefore I'll stay.


Why, that's my fortune too; therefore I'll stay.


My royal father, cheer these noble lords And hearten those that fight in your defence: Unsheathe your sword, good father; cry 'Saint George!'


My royal father, cheer these noble lords And hearten those that fight in your defence: Unsheathe your sword, good father; cry 'Saint George!'

Now, perjured Henry! wilt thou kneel for grace, And set thy diadem upon my head; Or bide the mortal fortune of the field?


Now, perjured Henry! wilt thou kneel for grace, And set thy diadem upon my head; Or bide the mortal fortune of the field?

Go, rate thy minions, proud insulting boy! Becomes it thee to be thus bold in terms Before thy sovereign and thy lawful king?


Go, rate thy minions, proud insulting boy! Becomes it thee to be thus bold in terms Before thy sovereign and thy lawful king?

I am his king, and he should bow his knee; I was adopted heir by his consent: Since when, his oath is broke;


I am his king, and he should bow his knee; I was adopted heir by his consent: Since when, his oath is broke;

for, as I hear, You, that are king, though he do wear the crown, Have caused him, by new act of parliament, To blot out me, and put his own son in.


for, as I hear, You, that are king, though he do wear the crown, Have caused him, by new act of parliament, To blot out me, and put his own son in.

And reason too: Who should succeed the father but the son?


And reason too: Who should succeed the father but the son?

Are you there, butcher? O, I cannot speak!


Are you there, butcher? O, I cannot speak!

Ay, crook-back, here I stand to answer thee, Or any he the proudest of thy sort.


Ay, crook-back, here I stand to answer thee, Or any he the proudest of thy sort.

'Twas you that kill'd young Rutland, was it not?


'Twas you that kill'd young Rutland, was it not?

Ay, and old York, and yet not satisfied.


Ay, and old York, and yet not satisfied.

For God's sake, lords, give signal to the fight.


For God's sake, lords, give signal to the fight.

What say'st thou, Henry, wilt thou yield the crown?


What say'st thou, Henry, wilt thou yield the crown?

Why, how now, long-tongued Warwick! dare you speak? When you and I met at Saint Alban's last, Your legs did better service than your hands.


Why, how now, long-tongued Warwick! dare you speak? When you and I met at Saint Alban's last, Your legs did better service than your hands.

Then 'twas my turn to fly, and now 'tis thine.


Then 'twas my turn to fly, and now 'tis thine.

You said so much before, and yet you fled.


You said so much before, and yet you fled.

'Twas not your valour, Clifford, drove me thence.


'Twas not your valour, Clifford, drove me thence.

No, nor your manhood that durst make you stay.


No, nor your manhood that durst make you stay.

Northumberland, I hold thee reverently. Break off the parley; for scarce I can refrain The execution of my big-swoln heart Upon that Clifford, that cruel child-killer.


Northumberland, I hold thee reverently. Break off the parley; for scarce I can refrain The execution of my big-swoln heart Upon that Clifford, that cruel child-killer.

I slew thy father, call'st thou him a child?


I slew thy father, call'st thou him a child?

Ay, like a dastard and a treacherous coward, As thou didst kill our tender brother Rutland; But ere sunset I'll make thee curse the deed.


Ay, like a dastard and a treacherous coward, As thou didst kill our tender brother Rutland; But ere sunset I'll make thee curse the deed.

Have done with words, my lords, and hear me speak.


Have done with words, my lords, and hear me speak.

Defy them then, or else hold close thy lips.


Defy them then, or else hold close thy lips.

I prithee, give no limits to my tongue: I am a king, and privileged to speak.


I prithee, give no limits to my tongue: I am a king, and privileged to speak.

My liege, the wound that bred this meeting here Cannot be cured by words; therefore be still.


My liege, the wound that bred this meeting here Cannot be cured by words; therefore be still.

Then, executioner, unsheathe thy sword: By him that made us all, I am resolved that Clifford's manhood lies upon his tongue.


Then, executioner, unsheathe thy sword: By him that made us all, I am resolved that Clifford's manhood lies upon his tongue.

Say, Henry, shall I have my right, or no? A thousand men have broke their fasts to-day, That ne'er shall dine unless thou yield the crown.


Say, Henry, shall I have my right, or no? A thousand men have broke their fasts to-day, That ne'er shall dine unless thou yield the crown.

If thou deny, their blood upon thy head; For York in justice puts his armour on.


If thou deny, their blood upon thy head; For York in justice puts his armour on.

If that be right which Warwick says is right, There is no wrong, but every thing is right.


If that be right which Warwick says is right, There is no wrong, but every thing is right.

Whoever got thee, there thy mother stands; For, well I wot, thou hast thy mother's tongue.


Whoever got thee, there thy mother stands; For, well I wot, thou hast thy mother's tongue.

But thou art neither like thy sire nor dam; But like a foul mis-shapen stigmatic, Mark'd by the destinies to be avoided, As venom toads, or lizards' dreadful stings.


But thou art neither like thy sire nor dam; But like a foul mis-shapen stigmatic, Mark'd by the destinies to be avoided, As venom toads, or lizards' dreadful stings.

A wisp of straw were worth a thousand crowns, To make this shameless callet know herself. Helen of Greece was fairer far than thou, Although thy husband may be Menelaus;


A wisp of straw were worth a thousand crowns, To make this shameless callet know herself. Helen of Greece was fairer far than thou, Although thy husband may be Menelaus;

And ne'er was Agamemnon's brother wrong'd By that false woman, as this king by thee. His father revell'd in the heart of France, And tamed the king, and made the dauphin stoop;


And ne'er was Agamemnon's brother wrong'd By that false woman, as this king by thee. His father revell'd in the heart of France, And tamed the king, and made the dauphin stoop;

And had he match'd according to his state, He might have kept that glory to this day; For what hath broach'd this tumult but thy pride? Hadst thou been meek, our title still had slept;


And had he match'd according to his state, He might have kept that glory to this day; For what hath broach'd this tumult but thy pride? Hadst thou been meek, our title still had slept;

And we, in pity of the gentle king, Had slipp'd our claim until another age.


And we, in pity of the gentle king, Had slipp'd our claim until another age.

But when we saw our sunshine made thy spring, And that thy summer bred us no increase, We set the axe to thy usurping root;


But when we saw our sunshine made thy spring, And that thy summer bred us no increase, We set the axe to thy usurping root;

And though the edge hath something hit ourselves, Yet, know thou, since we have begun to strike, We'll never leave till we have hewn thee down, Or bathed thy growing with our heated bloods.


And though the edge hath something hit ourselves, Yet, know thou, since we have begun to strike, We'll never leave till we have hewn thee down, Or bathed thy growing with our heated bloods.

And, in this resolution, I defy thee; Not willing any longer conference, Since thou deniest the gentle king to speak. Sound trumpets! let our bloody colours wave! And either victory, or else a grave.


And, in this resolution, I defy thee; Not willing any longer conference, Since thou deniest the gentle king to speak. Sound trumpets! let our bloody colours wave! And either victory, or else a grave.


No, wrangling woman, we'll no longer stay: These words will cost ten thousand lives this day. 3 KING HENRY VI


No, wrangling woman, we'll no longer stay: These words will cost ten thousand lives this day. 3 KING HENRY VI

Forspent with toil, as runners with a race, I lay me down a little while to breathe;


Forspent with toil, as runners with a race, I lay me down a little while to breathe;

For strokes received, and many blows repaid, Have robb'd my strong-knit sinews of their strength, And spite of spite needs must I rest awhile.


For strokes received, and many blows repaid, Have robb'd my strong-knit sinews of their strength, And spite of spite needs must I rest awhile.

Smile, gentle heaven! or strike, ungentle death! For this world frowns, and Edward's sun is clouded.


Smile, gentle heaven! or strike, ungentle death! For this world frowns, and Edward's sun is clouded.

How now, my lord! what hap? what hope of good?


How now, my lord! what hap? what hope of good?

Our hap is loss, our hope but sad despair; Our ranks are broke, and ruin follows us: What counsel give you? whither shall we fly?


Our hap is loss, our hope but sad despair; Our ranks are broke, and ruin follows us: What counsel give you? whither shall we fly?

Bootless is flight, they follow us with wings; And weak we are and cannot shun pursuit.


Bootless is flight, they follow us with wings; And weak we are and cannot shun pursuit.

Ah, Warwick, why hast thou withdrawn thyself? Thy brother's blood the thirsty earth hath drunk, Broach'd with the steely point of Clifford's lance;


Ah, Warwick, why hast thou withdrawn thyself? Thy brother's blood the thirsty earth hath drunk, Broach'd with the steely point of Clifford's lance;

And in the very pangs of death he cried, Like to a dismal clangour heard from far, 'Warwick, revenge! brother, revenge my death!


And in the very pangs of death he cried, Like to a dismal clangour heard from far, 'Warwick, revenge! brother, revenge my death!

' So, underneath the belly of their steeds, That stain'd their fetlocks in his smoking blood, The noble gentleman gave up the ghost.


' So, underneath the belly of their steeds, That stain'd their fetlocks in his smoking blood, The noble gentleman gave up the ghost.

Then let the earth be drunken with our blood: I'll kill my horse, because I will not fly. Why stand we like soft-hearted women here, Wailing our losses, whiles the foe doth rage;


Then let the earth be drunken with our blood: I'll kill my horse, because I will not fly. Why stand we like soft-hearted women here, Wailing our losses, whiles the foe doth rage;

And look upon, as if the tragedy Were play'd in jest by counterfeiting actors?


And look upon, as if the tragedy Were play'd in jest by counterfeiting actors?

Here on my knee I vow to God above, I'll never pause again, never stand still, Till either death hath closed these eyes of mine Or fortune given me measure of revenge.


Here on my knee I vow to God above, I'll never pause again, never stand still, Till either death hath closed these eyes of mine Or fortune given me measure of revenge.

O Warwick, I do bend my knee with thine; And in this vow do chain my soul to thine! Now, lords, take leave until we meet again, Where'er it be, in heaven or in earth.


O Warwick, I do bend my knee with thine; And in this vow do chain my soul to thine! Now, lords, take leave until we meet again, Where'er it be, in heaven or in earth.

Brother, give me thy hand; and, gentle Warwick, Let me embrace thee in my weary arms: I, that did never weep, now melt with woe That winter should cut off our spring-time so.


Brother, give me thy hand; and, gentle Warwick, Let me embrace thee in my weary arms: I, that did never weep, now melt with woe That winter should cut off our spring-time so.

Away, away! Once more, sweet lords farewell.


Away, away! Once more, sweet lords farewell.

Yet let us all together to our troops, And give them leave to fly that will not stay; And call them pillars that will stand to us;


Yet let us all together to our troops, And give them leave to fly that will not stay; And call them pillars that will stand to us;

And, if we thrive, promise them such rewards As victors wear at the Olympian games: This may plant courage in their quailing breasts; For yet is hope of life and victory.


And, if we thrive, promise them such rewards As victors wear at the Olympian games: This may plant courage in their quailing breasts; For yet is hope of life and victory.

Forslow no longer, make we hence amain. 3 KING HENRY VI


Forslow no longer, make we hence amain. 3 KING HENRY VI

Now, Clifford, I have singled thee alone: Suppose this arm is for the Duke of York, And this for Rutland; both bound to revenge, Wert thou environ'd with a brazen wall.


Now, Clifford, I have singled thee alone: Suppose this arm is for the Duke of York, And this for Rutland; both bound to revenge, Wert thou environ'd with a brazen wall.

Now, Richard, I am with thee here alone: This is the hand that stabb'd thy father York; And this the hand that slew thy brother Rutland;


Now, Richard, I am with thee here alone: This is the hand that stabb'd thy father York; And this the hand that slew thy brother Rutland;

And here's the heart that triumphs in their death And cheers these hands that slew thy sire and brother To execute the like upon thyself; And so, have at thee!


And here's the heart that triumphs in their death And cheers these hands that slew thy sire and brother To execute the like upon thyself; And so, have at thee!

Nay Warwick, single out some other chase; For I myself will hunt this wolf to death. 3 KING HENRY VI


Nay Warwick, single out some other chase; For I myself will hunt this wolf to death. 3 KING HENRY VI

This battle fares like to the morning's war, When dying clouds contend with growing light, What time the shepherd, blowing of his nails, Can neither call it perfect day nor night.


This battle fares like to the morning's war, When dying clouds contend with growing light, What time the shepherd, blowing of his nails, Can neither call it perfect day nor night.

Now sways it this way, like a mighty sea Forced by the tide to combat with the wind; Now sways it that way, like the selfsame sea Forced to retire by fury of the wind:


Now sways it this way, like a mighty sea Forced by the tide to combat with the wind; Now sways it that way, like the selfsame sea Forced to retire by fury of the wind:

Sometime the flood prevails, and then the wind; Now one the better, then another best; Both tugging to be victors, breast to breast, Yet neither conqueror nor conquered:


Sometime the flood prevails, and then the wind; Now one the better, then another best; Both tugging to be victors, breast to breast, Yet neither conqueror nor conquered:

So is the equal of this fell war. Here on this molehill will I sit me down. To whom God will, there be the victory! For Margaret my queen, and Clifford too, Have chid me from the battle;


So is the equal of this fell war. Here on this molehill will I sit me down. To whom God will, there be the victory! For Margaret my queen, and Clifford too, Have chid me from the battle;

swearing both They prosper best of all when I am thence. Would I were dead! if God's good will were so; For what is in this world but grief and woe? O God!


swearing both They prosper best of all when I am thence. Would I were dead! if God's good will were so; For what is in this world but grief and woe? O God!

methinks it were a happy life, To be no better than a homely swain;


methinks it were a happy life, To be no better than a homely swain;

To sit upon a hill, as I do now, To carve out dials quaintly, point by point, Thereby to see the minutes how they run, How many make the hour full complete; How many hours bring about the day;


To sit upon a hill, as I do now, To carve out dials quaintly, point by point, Thereby to see the minutes how they run, How many make the hour full complete; How many hours bring about the day;

How many days will finish up the year; How many years a mortal man may live. When this is known, then to divide the times: So many hours must I tend my flock; So many hours must I take my rest;


How many days will finish up the year; How many years a mortal man may live. When this is known, then to divide the times: So many hours must I tend my flock; So many hours must I take my rest;

So many hours must I contemplate; So many hours must I sport myself; So many days my ewes have been with young; So many weeks ere the poor fools will ean: So many years ere I shall shear the fleece:


So many hours must I contemplate; So many hours must I sport myself; So many days my ewes have been with young; So many weeks ere the poor fools will ean: So many years ere I shall shear the fleece:

So minutes, hours, days, months, and years, Pass'd over to the end they were created, Would bring white hairs unto a quiet grave. Ah, what a life were this! how sweet! how lovely!


So minutes, hours, days, months, and years, Pass'd over to the end they were created, Would bring white hairs unto a quiet grave. Ah, what a life were this! how sweet! how lovely!

Gives not the hawthorn-bush a sweeter shade To shepherds looking on their silly sheep, Than doth a rich embroider'd canopy To kings that fear their subjects' treachery? O, yes, it doth;


Gives not the hawthorn-bush a sweeter shade To shepherds looking on their silly sheep, Than doth a rich embroider'd canopy To kings that fear their subjects' treachery? O, yes, it doth;

a thousand-fold it doth. And to conclude, the shepherd's homely curds, His cold thin drink out of his leather bottle.


a thousand-fold it doth. And to conclude, the shepherd's homely curds, His cold thin drink out of his leather bottle.

Ill blows the wind that profits nobody. This man, whom hand to hand I slew in fight, May be possessed with some store of crowns;


Ill blows the wind that profits nobody. This man, whom hand to hand I slew in fight, May be possessed with some store of crowns;

And I, that haply take them from him now, May yet ere night yield both my life and them To some man else, as this dead man doth me. Who's this? O God!


And I, that haply take them from him now, May yet ere night yield both my life and them To some man else, as this dead man doth me. Who's this? O God!

it is my father's face, Whom in this conflict I unwares have kill'd. O heavy times, begetting such events! From London by the king was I press'd forth;


it is my father's face, Whom in this conflict I unwares have kill'd. O heavy times, begetting such events! From London by the king was I press'd forth;

My father, being the Earl of Warwick's man, Came on the part of York, press'd by his master; And I, who at his hands received my life, him Have by my hands of life bereaved him.


My father, being the Earl of Warwick's man, Came on the part of York, press'd by his master; And I, who at his hands received my life, him Have by my hands of life bereaved him.

Pardon me, God, I knew not what I did! And pardon, father, for I knew not thee! My tears shall wipe away these bloody marks; And no more words till they have flow'd their fill.


Pardon me, God, I knew not what I did! And pardon, father, for I knew not thee! My tears shall wipe away these bloody marks; And no more words till they have flow'd their fill.

O piteous spectacle! O bloody times! Whiles lions war and battle for their dens, Poor harmless lambs abide their enmity. Weep, wretched man, I'll aid thee tear for tear;


O piteous spectacle! O bloody times! Whiles lions war and battle for their dens, Poor harmless lambs abide their enmity. Weep, wretched man, I'll aid thee tear for tear;

And let our hearts and eyes, like civil war, Be blind with tears, and break o'ercharged with grief.


And let our hearts and eyes, like civil war, Be blind with tears, and break o'ercharged with grief.

Thou that so stoutly hast resisted me, Give me thy gold, if thou hast any gold: For I have bought it with an hundred blows. But let me see: is this our foeman's face?


Thou that so stoutly hast resisted me, Give me thy gold, if thou hast any gold: For I have bought it with an hundred blows. But let me see: is this our foeman's face?

Ah, no, no, no, it is mine only son! Ah, boy, if any life be left in thee, Throw up thine eye!


Ah, no, no, no, it is mine only son! Ah, boy, if any life be left in thee, Throw up thine eye!

see, see what showers arise, Blown with the windy tempest of my heart, Upon thy words, that kill mine eye and heart! O, pity, God, this miserable age!


see, see what showers arise, Blown with the windy tempest of my heart, Upon thy words, that kill mine eye and heart! O, pity, God, this miserable age!

What stratagems, how fell, how butcherly, Erroneous, mutinous and unnatural, This deadly quarrel daily doth beget!


What stratagems, how fell, how butcherly, Erroneous, mutinous and unnatural, This deadly quarrel daily doth beget!

O boy, thy father gave thee life too soon, And hath bereft thee of thy life too late!


O boy, thy father gave thee life too soon, And hath bereft thee of thy life too late!

Woe above woe! grief more than common grief! O that my death would stay these ruthful deeds! O pity, pity, gentle heaven, pity!


Woe above woe! grief more than common grief! O that my death would stay these ruthful deeds! O pity, pity, gentle heaven, pity!

The red rose and the white are on his face, The fatal colours of our striving houses: The one his purple blood right well resembles; The other his pale cheeks, methinks, presenteth:


The red rose and the white are on his face, The fatal colours of our striving houses: The one his purple blood right well resembles; The other his pale cheeks, methinks, presenteth:

Wither one rose, and let the other flourish; If you contend, a thousand lives must wither.


Wither one rose, and let the other flourish; If you contend, a thousand lives must wither.

How will my mother for a father's death Take on with me and ne'er be satisfied!


How will my mother for a father's death Take on with me and ne'er be satisfied!

How will my wife for slaughter of my son Shed seas of tears and ne'er be satisfied!


How will my wife for slaughter of my son Shed seas of tears and ne'er be satisfied!

How will the country for these woful chances Misthink the king and not be satisfied!


How will the country for these woful chances Misthink the king and not be satisfied!


Was ever king so grieved for subjects' woe? Much is your sorrow; mine ten times so much.


Was ever king so grieved for subjects' woe? Much is your sorrow; mine ten times so much.

I'll bear thee hence, where I may weep my fill.


I'll bear thee hence, where I may weep my fill.

These arms of mine shall be thy winding-sheet; My heart, sweet boy, shall be thy sepulchre, For from my heart thine image ne'er shall go; My sighing breast shall be thy funeral bell;


These arms of mine shall be thy winding-sheet; My heart, sweet boy, shall be thy sepulchre, For from my heart thine image ne'er shall go; My sighing breast shall be thy funeral bell;

And so obsequious will thy father be, Even for the loss of thee, having no more, As Priam was for all his valiant sons. I'll bear thee hence;


And so obsequious will thy father be, Even for the loss of thee, having no more, As Priam was for all his valiant sons. I'll bear thee hence;

and let them fight that will, For I have murdered where I should not kill.


and let them fight that will, For I have murdered where I should not kill.

Sad-hearted men, much overgone with care, Here sits a king more woful than you are.


Sad-hearted men, much overgone with care, Here sits a king more woful than you are.

Fly, father, fly! for all your friends are fled, And Warwick rages like a chafed bull: Away! for death doth hold us in pursuit.


Fly, father, fly! for all your friends are fled, And Warwick rages like a chafed bull: Away! for death doth hold us in pursuit.

Mount you, my lord; towards Berwick post amain:


Mount you, my lord; towards Berwick post amain:

Edward and Richard, like a brace of greyhounds Having the fearful flying hare in sight, With fiery eyes sparkling for very wrath, And bloody steel grasp'd in their ireful hands, Are at our backs;


Edward and Richard, like a brace of greyhounds Having the fearful flying hare in sight, With fiery eyes sparkling for very wrath, And bloody steel grasp'd in their ireful hands, Are at our backs;


Away! for vengeance comes along with them: Nay, stay not to expostulate, make speed; Or else come after: I'll away before.


Away! for vengeance comes along with them: Nay, stay not to expostulate, make speed; Or else come after: I'll away before.

Nay, take me with thee, good sweet Exeter: Not that I fear to stay, but love to go Whither the queen intends. Forward; away! 3 KING HENRY VI


Nay, take me with thee, good sweet Exeter: Not that I fear to stay, but love to go Whither the queen intends. Forward; away! 3 KING HENRY VI

Here burns my candle out; ay, here it dies, Which, whiles it lasted, gave King Henry light. O Lancaster, I fear thy overthrow More than my body's parting with my soul!


Here burns my candle out; ay, here it dies, Which, whiles it lasted, gave King Henry light. O Lancaster, I fear thy overthrow More than my body's parting with my soul!

My love and fear glued many friends to thee; And, now I fall, thy tough commixture melts. Impairing Henry, strengthening misproud York, The common people swarm like summer flies;


My love and fear glued many friends to thee; And, now I fall, thy tough commixture melts. Impairing Henry, strengthening misproud York, The common people swarm like summer flies;

And whither fly the gnats but to the sun? And who shines now but Henry's enemies?


And whither fly the gnats but to the sun? And who shines now but Henry's enemies?

O Phoebus, hadst thou never given consent That Phaethon should cheque thy fiery steeds, Thy burning car never had scorch'd the earth!


O Phoebus, hadst thou never given consent That Phaethon should cheque thy fiery steeds, Thy burning car never had scorch'd the earth!

And, Henry, hadst thou sway'd as kings should do, Or as thy father and his father did, Giving no ground unto the house of York, They never then had sprung like summer flies;


And, Henry, hadst thou sway'd as kings should do, Or as thy father and his father did, Giving no ground unto the house of York, They never then had sprung like summer flies;

I and ten thousand in this luckless realm Had left no mourning widows for our death; And thou this day hadst kept thy chair in peace. For what doth cherish weeds but gentle air?


I and ten thousand in this luckless realm Had left no mourning widows for our death; And thou this day hadst kept thy chair in peace. For what doth cherish weeds but gentle air?

And what makes robbers bold but too much lenity? Bootless are plaints, and cureless are my wounds; No way to fly, nor strength to hold out flight: The foe is merciless, and will not pity;


And what makes robbers bold but too much lenity? Bootless are plaints, and cureless are my wounds; No way to fly, nor strength to hold out flight: The foe is merciless, and will not pity;

For at their hands I have deserved no pity. The air hath got into my deadly wounds, And much effuse of blood doth make me faint. Come, York and Richard, Warwick and the rest;


For at their hands I have deserved no pity. The air hath got into my deadly wounds, And much effuse of blood doth make me faint. Come, York and Richard, Warwick and the rest;

I stabb'd your fathers' bosoms, split my breast.


I stabb'd your fathers' bosoms, split my breast.

Now breathe we, lords: good fortune bids us pause, And smooth the frowns of war with peaceful looks.


Now breathe we, lords: good fortune bids us pause, And smooth the frowns of war with peaceful looks.

Some troops pursue the bloody-minded queen, That led calm Henry, though he were a king, As doth a sail, fill'd with a fretting gust, Command an argosy to stem the waves.


Some troops pursue the bloody-minded queen, That led calm Henry, though he were a king, As doth a sail, fill'd with a fretting gust, Command an argosy to stem the waves.

But think you, lords, that Clifford fled with them?


But think you, lords, that Clifford fled with them?

No, 'tis impossible he should escape, For, though before his face I speak the words Your brother Richard mark'd him for the grave: And wheresoe'er he is, he's surely dead.


No, 'tis impossible he should escape, For, though before his face I speak the words Your brother Richard mark'd him for the grave: And wheresoe'er he is, he's surely dead.

Whose soul is that which takes her heavy leave?


Whose soul is that which takes her heavy leave?

A deadly groan, like life and death's departing.


A deadly groan, like life and death's departing.

See who it is: and, now the battle's ended, If friend or foe, let him be gently used.


See who it is: and, now the battle's ended, If friend or foe, let him be gently used.

Revoke that doom of mercy, for 'tis Clifford;


Revoke that doom of mercy, for 'tis Clifford;

From off the gates of York fetch down the head, Your father's head, which Clifford placed there; Instead whereof let this supply the room: Measure for measure must be answered.


From off the gates of York fetch down the head, Your father's head, which Clifford placed there; Instead whereof let this supply the room: Measure for measure must be answered.

Bring forth that fatal screech-owl to our house, That nothing sung but death to us and ours: Now death shall stop his dismal threatening sound, And his ill-boding tongue no more shall speak.


Bring forth that fatal screech-owl to our house, That nothing sung but death to us and ours: Now death shall stop his dismal threatening sound, And his ill-boding tongue no more shall speak.

I think his understanding is bereft. Speak, Clifford, dost thou know who speaks to thee? Dark cloudy death o'ershades his beams of life, And he nor sees nor hears us what we say.


I think his understanding is bereft. Speak, Clifford, dost thou know who speaks to thee? Dark cloudy death o'ershades his beams of life, And he nor sees nor hears us what we say.

O, would he did! and so perhaps he doth: 'Tis but his policy to counterfeit, Because he would avoid such bitter taunts Which in the time of death he gave our father.


O, would he did! and so perhaps he doth: 'Tis but his policy to counterfeit, Because he would avoid such bitter taunts Which in the time of death he gave our father.

If so thou think'st, vex him with eager words.


If so thou think'st, vex him with eager words.

Clifford, ask mercy and obtain no grace.


Clifford, ask mercy and obtain no grace.


Clifford, devise excuses for thy faults.


Clifford, devise excuses for thy faults.

While we devise fell tortures for thy faults.


While we devise fell tortures for thy faults.

Thou didst love York, and I am son to York.


Thou didst love York, and I am son to York.

Thou pitied'st Rutland; I will pity thee.


Thou pitied'st Rutland; I will pity thee.

Where's Captain Margaret, to fence you now?


Where's Captain Margaret, to fence you now?

They mock thee, Clifford: swear as thou wast wont.


They mock thee, Clifford: swear as thou wast wont.

What, not an oath? nay, then the world goes hard When Clifford cannot spare his friends an oath. I know by that he's dead;


What, not an oath? nay, then the world goes hard When Clifford cannot spare his friends an oath. I know by that he's dead;

Ay, but he's dead: off with the traitor's head, And rear it in the place your father's stands. And now to London with triumphant march, There to be crowned England's royal king:


Ay, but he's dead: off with the traitor's head, And rear it in the place your father's stands. And now to London with triumphant march, There to be crowned England's royal king:

From whence shall Warwick cut the sea to France, And ask the Lady Bona for thy queen: So shalt thou sinew both these lands together;


From whence shall Warwick cut the sea to France, And ask the Lady Bona for thy queen: So shalt thou sinew both these lands together;

And, having France thy friend, thou shalt not dread The scatter'd foe that hopes to rise again; For though they cannot greatly sting to hurt, Yet look to have them buzz to offend thine ears.


And, having France thy friend, thou shalt not dread The scatter'd foe that hopes to rise again; For though they cannot greatly sting to hurt, Yet look to have them buzz to offend thine ears.

First will I see the coronation; And then to Brittany I'll cross the sea, To effect this marriage, so it please my lord.


First will I see the coronation; And then to Brittany I'll cross the sea, To effect this marriage, so it please my lord.

Even as thou wilt, sweet Warwick, let it be; For in thy shoulder do I build my seat, And never will I undertake the thing Wherein thy counsel and consent is wanting.


Even as thou wilt, sweet Warwick, let it be; For in thy shoulder do I build my seat, And never will I undertake the thing Wherein thy counsel and consent is wanting.

Richard, I will create thee Duke of Gloucester, And George, of Clarence: Warwick, as ourself, Shall do and undo as him pleaseth best.


Richard, I will create thee Duke of Gloucester, And George, of Clarence: Warwick, as ourself, Shall do and undo as him pleaseth best.

Let me be Duke of Clarence, George of Gloucester; For Gloucester's dukedom is too ominous.


Let me be Duke of Clarence, George of Gloucester; For Gloucester's dukedom is too ominous.

Tut, that's a foolish observation: Richard, be Duke of Gloucester. Now to London, To see these honours in possession. 3 KING HENRY VI


Tut, that's a foolish observation: Richard, be Duke of Gloucester. Now to London, To see these honours in possession. 3 KING HENRY VI

Under this thick-grown brake we'll shroud ourselves; For through this laund anon the deer will come; And in this covert will we make our stand, Culling the principal of all the deer.


Under this thick-grown brake we'll shroud ourselves; For through this laund anon the deer will come; And in this covert will we make our stand, Culling the principal of all the deer.

I'll stay above the hill, so both may shoot.


I'll stay above the hill, so both may shoot.

That cannot be; the noise of thy cross-bow Will scare the herd, and so my shoot is lost. Here stand we both, and aim we at the best:


That cannot be; the noise of thy cross-bow Will scare the herd, and so my shoot is lost. Here stand we both, and aim we at the best:

And, for the time shall not seem tedious, I'll tell thee what befell me on a day In this self-place where now we mean to stand.


And, for the time shall not seem tedious, I'll tell thee what befell me on a day In this self-place where now we mean to stand.

Here comes a man; let's stay till he be past.


Here comes a man; let's stay till he be past.

From Scotland am I stol'n, even of pure love, To greet mine own land with my wishful sight. No, Harry, Harry, 'tis no land of thine;


From Scotland am I stol'n, even of pure love, To greet mine own land with my wishful sight. No, Harry, Harry, 'tis no land of thine;

Thy place is fill'd, thy sceptre wrung from thee, Thy balm wash'd off wherewith thou wast anointed:


Thy place is fill'd, thy sceptre wrung from thee, Thy balm wash'd off wherewith thou wast anointed:

No bending knee will call thee Caesar now, No humble suitors press to speak for right, No, not a man comes for redress of thee; For how can I help them, and not myself?


No bending knee will call thee Caesar now, No humble suitors press to speak for right, No, not a man comes for redress of thee; For how can I help them, and not myself?

Ay, here's a deer whose skin's a keeper's fee: This is the quondam king; let's seize upon him.


Ay, here's a deer whose skin's a keeper's fee: This is the quondam king; let's seize upon him.

Let me embrace thee, sour adversity, For wise men say it is the wisest course.


Let me embrace thee, sour adversity, For wise men say it is the wisest course.

Why linger we? let us lay hands upon him.


Why linger we? let us lay hands upon him.

Forbear awhile; we'll hear a little more.


Forbear awhile; we'll hear a little more.

My queen and son are gone to France for aid; And, as I hear, the great commanding Warwick Is thither gone, to crave the French king's sister To wife for Edward:


My queen and son are gone to France for aid; And, as I hear, the great commanding Warwick Is thither gone, to crave the French king's sister To wife for Edward:

if this news be true, Poor queen and son, your labour is but lost; For Warwick is a subtle orator, And Lewis a prince soon won with moving words. By this account then Margaret may win him;


if this news be true, Poor queen and son, your labour is but lost; For Warwick is a subtle orator, And Lewis a prince soon won with moving words. By this account then Margaret may win him;

For she's a woman to be pitied much: Her sighs will make a battery in his breast; Her tears will pierce into a marble heart; The tiger will be mild whiles she doth mourn;


For she's a woman to be pitied much: Her sighs will make a battery in his breast; Her tears will pierce into a marble heart; The tiger will be mild whiles she doth mourn;

And Nero will be tainted with remorse, To hear and see her plaints, her brinish tears. Ay, but she's come to beg, Warwick to give;


And Nero will be tainted with remorse, To hear and see her plaints, her brinish tears. Ay, but she's come to beg, Warwick to give;

She, on his left side, craving aid for Henry, He, on his right, asking a wife for Edward. She weeps, and says her Henry is deposed; He smiles, and says his Edward is install'd;


She, on his left side, craving aid for Henry, He, on his right, asking a wife for Edward. She weeps, and says her Henry is deposed; He smiles, and says his Edward is install'd;

That she, poor wretch, for grief can speak no more; O Margaret, thus 'twill be; and thou, poor soul, Art then forsaken, as thou went'st forlorn!


That she, poor wretch, for grief can speak no more; O Margaret, thus 'twill be; and thou, poor soul, Art then forsaken, as thou went'st forlorn!

Say, what art thou that talk'st of kings and queens?


Say, what art thou that talk'st of kings and queens?

More than I seem, and less than I was born to: A man at least, for less I should not be; And men may talk of kings, and why not I?


More than I seem, and less than I was born to: A man at least, for less I should not be; And men may talk of kings, and why not I?

Ay, but thou talk'st as if thou wert a king.


Ay, but thou talk'st as if thou wert a king.

Why, so I am, in mind; and that's enough.


Why, so I am, in mind; and that's enough.

But, if thou be a king, where is thy crown?


But, if thou be a king, where is thy crown?

My crown is in my heart, not on my head; Not decked with diamonds and Indian stones, Nor to be seen: my crown is called content: A crown it is that seldom kings enjoy.


My crown is in my heart, not on my head; Not decked with diamonds and Indian stones, Nor to be seen: my crown is called content: A crown it is that seldom kings enjoy.

Well, if you be a king crown'd with content, Your crown content and you must be contented To go along with us; for as we think, You are the king King Edward hath deposed;


Well, if you be a king crown'd with content, Your crown content and you must be contented To go along with us; for as we think, You are the king King Edward hath deposed;

And we his subjects sworn in all allegiance Will apprehend you as his enemy.


And we his subjects sworn in all allegiance Will apprehend you as his enemy.

But did you never swear, and break an oath?


But did you never swear, and break an oath?

No, never such an oath; nor will not now.


No, never such an oath; nor will not now.

Where did you dwell when I was King of England?


Where did you dwell when I was King of England?

Here in this country, where we now remain.


Here in this country, where we now remain.

I was anointed king at nine months old; My father and my grandfather were kings, And you were sworn true subjects unto me: And tell me, then, have you not broke your oaths?


I was anointed king at nine months old; My father and my grandfather were kings, And you were sworn true subjects unto me: And tell me, then, have you not broke your oaths?

No; For we were subjects but while you were king.


No; For we were subjects but while you were king.

Why, am I dead? do I not breathe a man? Ah, simple men, you know not what you swear!


Why, am I dead? do I not breathe a man? Ah, simple men, you know not what you swear!

Look, as I blow this feather from my face, And as the air blows it to me again, Obeying with my wind when I do blow, And yielding to another when it blows, Commanded always by the greater gust;


Look, as I blow this feather from my face, And as the air blows it to me again, Obeying with my wind when I do blow, And yielding to another when it blows, Commanded always by the greater gust;

Such is the lightness of you common men. But do not break your oaths; for of that sin My mild entreaty shall not make you guilty. Go where you will, the king shall be commanded;


Such is the lightness of you common men. But do not break your oaths; for of that sin My mild entreaty shall not make you guilty. Go where you will, the king shall be commanded;

And be you kings, command, and I'll obey.


And be you kings, command, and I'll obey.

We are true subjects to the king, King Edward.


We are true subjects to the king, King Edward.

So would you be again to Henry, If he were seated as King Edward is.


So would you be again to Henry, If he were seated as King Edward is.

We charge you, in God's name, and the king's, To go with us unto the officers.


We charge you, in God's name, and the king's, To go with us unto the officers.

In God's name, lead; your king's name be obey'd: And what God will, that let your king perform; And what he will, I humbly yield unto. 3 KING HENRY VI


In God's name, lead; your king's name be obey'd: And what God will, that let your king perform; And what he will, I humbly yield unto. 3 KING HENRY VI

Brother of Gloucester, at Saint Alban's field This lady's husband, Sir Richard Grey, was slain, His lands then seized on by the conqueror: Her suit is now to repossess those lands;


Brother of Gloucester, at Saint Alban's field This lady's husband, Sir Richard Grey, was slain, His lands then seized on by the conqueror: Her suit is now to repossess those lands;

Which we in justice cannot well deny, Because in quarrel of the house of York The worthy gentleman did lose his life.


Which we in justice cannot well deny, Because in quarrel of the house of York The worthy gentleman did lose his life.

Your highness shall do well to grant her suit; It were dishonour to deny it her.


Your highness shall do well to grant her suit; It were dishonour to deny it her.

It were no less; but yet I'll make a pause.


It were no less; but yet I'll make a pause.


Widow, we will consider of your suit; And come some other time to know our mind.


Widow, we will consider of your suit; And come some other time to know our mind.

Right gracious lord, I cannot brook delay: May it please your highness to resolve me now; And what your pleasure is, shall satisfy me.


Right gracious lord, I cannot brook delay: May it please your highness to resolve me now; And what your pleasure is, shall satisfy me.


How many children hast thou, widow? tell me.


'Twere pity they should lose their father's lands.


'Twere pity they should lose their father's lands.

Be pitiful, dread lord, and grant it then.


Be pitiful, dread lord, and grant it then.

Lords, give us leave: I'll try this widow's wit.


Lords, give us leave: I'll try this widow's wit.


Now tell me, madam, do you love your children?


And would you not do much to do them good?


And would you not do much to do them good?

To do them good, I would sustain some harm.


To do them good, I would sustain some harm.

Then get your husband's lands, to do them good.


Then get your husband's lands, to do them good.


I'll tell you how these lands are to be got.


I'll tell you how these lands are to be got.

So shall you bind me to your highness' service.


So shall you bind me to your highness' service.

What service wilt thou do me, if I give them?


What service wilt thou do me, if I give them?

What you command, that rests in me to do.


What you command, that rests in me to do.

But you will take exceptions to my boon.


But you will take exceptions to my boon.

No, gracious lord, except I cannot do it.


No, gracious lord, except I cannot do it.

Ay, but thou canst do what I mean to ask.


Ay, but thou canst do what I mean to ask.

Why, then I will do what your grace commands.


Why, then I will do what your grace commands.


Why stops my lord, shall I not hear my task?


That's soon perform'd, because I am a subject.


That's soon perform'd, because I am a subject.

Why, then, thy husband's lands I freely give thee.


Why, then, thy husband's lands I freely give thee.

I take my leave with many thousand thanks.


I take my leave with many thousand thanks.


But stay thee, 'tis the fruits of love I mean.


But stay thee, 'tis the fruits of love I mean.

The fruits of love I mean, my loving liege.


The fruits of love I mean, my loving liege.

Ay, but, I fear me, in another sense. What love, think'st thou, I sue so much to get?


Ay, but, I fear me, in another sense. What love, think'st thou, I sue so much to get?

My love till death, my humble thanks, my prayers; That love which virtue begs and virtue grants.


My love till death, my humble thanks, my prayers; That love which virtue begs and virtue grants.

No, by my troth, I did not mean such love.


No, by my troth, I did not mean such love.

Why, then you mean not as I thought you did.


Why, then you mean not as I thought you did.

But now you partly may perceive my mind.


But now you partly may perceive my mind.

My mind will never grant what I perceive Your highness aims at, if I aim aright.


My mind will never grant what I perceive Your highness aims at, if I aim aright.

To tell thee plain, I aim to lie with thee.


To tell thee plain, I aim to lie with thee.

To tell you plain, I had rather lie in prison.


To tell you plain, I had rather lie in prison.

Why, then thou shalt not have thy husband's lands.


Why, then thou shalt not have thy husband's lands.

Why, then mine honesty shall be my dower; For by that loss I will not purchase them.


Why, then mine honesty shall be my dower; For by that loss I will not purchase them.

Therein thou wrong'st thy children mightily.


Therein thou wrong'st thy children mightily.

Herein your highness wrongs both them and me. But, mighty lord, this merry inclination Accords not with the sadness of my suit: Please you dismiss me either with 'ay' or 'no.'


Herein your highness wrongs both them and me. But, mighty lord, this merry inclination Accords not with the sadness of my suit: Please you dismiss me either with 'ay' or 'no.'

Ay, if thou wilt say 'ay' to my request; No if thou dost say 'no' to my demand.


Ay, if thou wilt say 'ay' to my request; No if thou dost say 'no' to my demand.

Then, no, my lord. My suit is at an end.


Then, no, my lord. My suit is at an end.


'Tis better said than done, my gracious lord: I am a subject fit to jest withal, But far unfit to be a sovereign.


'Tis better said than done, my gracious lord: I am a subject fit to jest withal, But far unfit to be a sovereign.

Sweet widow, by my state I swear to thee I speak no more than what my soul intends; And that is, to enjoy thee for my love.


Sweet widow, by my state I swear to thee I speak no more than what my soul intends; And that is, to enjoy thee for my love.

And that is more than I will yield unto: I know I am too mean to be your queen, And yet too good to be your concubine.


And that is more than I will yield unto: I know I am too mean to be your queen, And yet too good to be your concubine.


'Twill grieve your grace my sons should call you father.


'Twill grieve your grace my sons should call you father.

No more than when my daughters call thee mother. Thou art a widow, and thou hast some children; And, by God's mother, I, being but a bachelor, Have other some:


No more than when my daughters call thee mother. Thou art a widow, and thou hast some children; And, by God's mother, I, being but a bachelor, Have other some:

why, 'tis a happy thing To be the father unto many sons. Answer no more, for thou shalt be my queen.


why, 'tis a happy thing To be the father unto many sons. Answer no more, for thou shalt be my queen.


Brothers, you muse what chat we two have had.


Brothers, you muse what chat we two have had.

The widow likes it not, for she looks very sad.


The widow likes it not, for she looks very sad.

You'll think it strange if I should marry her.


You'll think it strange if I should marry her.


That would be ten days' wonder at the least.


That would be ten days' wonder at the least.

That's a day longer than a wonder lasts.


That's a day longer than a wonder lasts.


Well, jest on, brothers: I can tell you both Her suit is granted for her husband's lands.


Well, jest on, brothers: I can tell you both Her suit is granted for her husband's lands.

My gracious lord, Henry your foe is taken, And brought your prisoner to your palace gate.


My gracious lord, Henry your foe is taken, And brought your prisoner to your palace gate.

See that he be convey'd unto the Tower: And go we, brothers, to the man that took him, To question of his apprehension. Widow, go you along. Lords, use her honourably.


See that he be convey'd unto the Tower: And go we, brothers, to the man that took him, To question of his apprehension. Widow, go you along. Lords, use her honourably.

Ay, Edward will use women honourably. Would he were wasted, marrow, bones and all, That from his loins no hopeful branch may spring, To cross me from the golden time I look for!


Ay, Edward will use women honourably. Would he were wasted, marrow, bones and all, That from his loins no hopeful branch may spring, To cross me from the golden time I look for!

A cold premeditation for my purpose! Why, then, I do but dream on sovereignty; So do I wish the crown, being so far off; And so I chide the means that keeps me from it;


A cold premeditation for my purpose! Why, then, I do but dream on sovereignty; So do I wish the crown, being so far off; And so I chide the means that keeps me from it;

And so I say, I'll cut the causes off, Flattering me with impossibilities. My eye's too quick, my heart o'erweens too much, Unless my hand and strength could equal them.


And so I say, I'll cut the causes off, Flattering me with impossibilities. My eye's too quick, my heart o'erweens too much, Unless my hand and strength could equal them.

Well, say there is no kingdom then for Richard; What other pleasure can the world afford?


Well, say there is no kingdom then for Richard; What other pleasure can the world afford?

I'll make my heaven in a lady's lap, And deck my body in gay ornaments, And witch sweet ladies with my words and looks. O miserable thought! and more unlikely Than to accomplish twenty golden crowns!


I'll make my heaven in a lady's lap, And deck my body in gay ornaments, And witch sweet ladies with my words and looks. O miserable thought! and more unlikely Than to accomplish twenty golden crowns!

Why, love forswore me in my mother's womb: And, for I should not deal in her soft laws, She did corrupt frail nature with some bribe, To shrink mine arm up like a wither'd shrub;


Why, love forswore me in my mother's womb: And, for I should not deal in her soft laws, She did corrupt frail nature with some bribe, To shrink mine arm up like a wither'd shrub;

To make an envious mountain on my back, Where sits deformity to mock my body; To shape my legs of an unequal size;


To make an envious mountain on my back, Where sits deformity to mock my body; To shape my legs of an unequal size;

To disproportion me in every part, Like to a chaos, or an unlick'd bear-whelp That carries no impression like the dam. And am I then a man to be beloved? O monstrous fault, to harbour such a thought!


To disproportion me in every part, Like to a chaos, or an unlick'd bear-whelp That carries no impression like the dam. And am I then a man to be beloved? O monstrous fault, to harbour such a thought!

And yet I know not how to get the crown, For many lives stand between me and home:


And yet I know not how to get the crown, For many lives stand between me and home:

And I,--like one lost in a thorny wood, That rends the thorns and is rent with the thorns, Seeking a way and straying from the way;


And I,--like one lost in a thorny wood, That rends the thorns and is rent with the thorns, Seeking a way and straying from the way;

Not knowing how to find the open air, But toiling desperately to find it out,-- Torment myself to catch the English crown:


Not knowing how to find the open air, But toiling desperately to find it out,-- Torment myself to catch the English crown:

And from that torment I will free myself, Or hew my way out with a bloody axe.


And from that torment I will free myself, Or hew my way out with a bloody axe.

Why, I can smile, and murder whiles I smile, And cry 'Content' to that which grieves my heart, And wet my cheeks with artificial tears, And frame my face to all occasions.


Why, I can smile, and murder whiles I smile, And cry 'Content' to that which grieves my heart, And wet my cheeks with artificial tears, And frame my face to all occasions.

I'll drown more sailors than the mermaid shall; I'll slay more gazers than the basilisk;


I'll drown more sailors than the mermaid shall; I'll slay more gazers than the basilisk;

I'll play the orator as well as Nestor, Deceive more slily than Ulysses could, And, like a Sinon, take another Troy.


I'll play the orator as well as Nestor, Deceive more slily than Ulysses could, And, like a Sinon, take another Troy.

I can add colours to the chameleon, Change shapes with Proteus for advantages, And set the murderous Machiavel to school. Can I do this, and cannot get a crown?


I can add colours to the chameleon, Change shapes with Proteus for advantages, And set the murderous Machiavel to school. Can I do this, and cannot get a crown?

Tut, were it farther off, I'll pluck it down. 3 KING HENRY VI


Tut, were it farther off, I'll pluck it down. 3 KING HENRY VI

Fair Queen of England, worthy Margaret, Sit down with us: it ill befits thy state And birth, that thou shouldst stand while Lewis doth sit.


Fair Queen of England, worthy Margaret, Sit down with us: it ill befits thy state And birth, that thou shouldst stand while Lewis doth sit.

No, mighty King of France: now Margaret Must strike her sail and learn awhile to serve Where kings command. I was, I must confess, Great Albion's queen in former golden days:


No, mighty King of France: now Margaret Must strike her sail and learn awhile to serve Where kings command. I was, I must confess, Great Albion's queen in former golden days:

But now mischance hath trod my title down, And with dishonour laid me on the ground; Where I must take like seat unto my fortune, And to my humble seat conform myself.


But now mischance hath trod my title down, And with dishonour laid me on the ground; Where I must take like seat unto my fortune, And to my humble seat conform myself.

Why, say, fair queen, whence springs this deep despair?


Why, say, fair queen, whence springs this deep despair?

From such a cause as fills mine eyes with tears And stops my tongue, while heart is drown'd in cares.


From such a cause as fills mine eyes with tears And stops my tongue, while heart is drown'd in cares.

Whate'er it be, be thou still like thyself, And sit thee by our side: Yield not thy neck To fortune's yoke, but let thy dauntless mind Still ride in triumph over all mischance.


Whate'er it be, be thou still like thyself, And sit thee by our side: Yield not thy neck To fortune's yoke, but let thy dauntless mind Still ride in triumph over all mischance.

Be plain, Queen Margaret, and tell thy grief; It shall be eased, if France can yield relief.


Be plain, Queen Margaret, and tell thy grief; It shall be eased, if France can yield relief.

Those gracious words revive my drooping thoughts And give my tongue-tied sorrows leave to speak.


Those gracious words revive my drooping thoughts And give my tongue-tied sorrows leave to speak.

Now, therefore, be it known to noble Lewis, That Henry, sole possessor of my love, Is of a king become a banish'd man, And forced to live in Scotland a forlorn;


Now, therefore, be it known to noble Lewis, That Henry, sole possessor of my love, Is of a king become a banish'd man, And forced to live in Scotland a forlorn;

While proud ambitious Edward Duke of York Usurps the regal title and the seat Of England's true-anointed lawful king.


While proud ambitious Edward Duke of York Usurps the regal title and the seat Of England's true-anointed lawful king.

This is the cause that I, poor Margaret, With this my son, Prince Edward, Henry's heir, Am come to crave thy just and lawful aid; And if thou fail us, all our hope is done:


This is the cause that I, poor Margaret, With this my son, Prince Edward, Henry's heir, Am come to crave thy just and lawful aid; And if thou fail us, all our hope is done:

Scotland hath will to help, but cannot help; Our people and our peers are both misled, Our treasures seized, our soldiers put to flight, And, as thou seest, ourselves in heavy plight.


Scotland hath will to help, but cannot help; Our people and our peers are both misled, Our treasures seized, our soldiers put to flight, And, as thou seest, ourselves in heavy plight.

Renowned queen, with patience calm the storm, While we bethink a means to break it off.


Renowned queen, with patience calm the storm, While we bethink a means to break it off.

The more we stay, the stronger grows our foe.


The more we stay, the stronger grows our foe.

The more I stay, the more I'll succor thee.


The more I stay, the more I'll succor thee.

O, but impatience waiteth on true sorrow. And see where comes the breeder of my sorrow!


O, but impatience waiteth on true sorrow. And see where comes the breeder of my sorrow!

What's he approacheth boldly to our presence?


What's he approacheth boldly to our presence?

Our Earl of Warwick, Edward's greatest friend.


Our Earl of Warwick, Edward's greatest friend.

Welcome, brave Warwick! What brings thee to France?


Welcome, brave Warwick! What brings thee to France?

Ay, now begins a second storm to rise; For this is he that moves both wind and tide.


Ay, now begins a second storm to rise; For this is he that moves both wind and tide.

From worthy Edward, King of Albion, My lord and sovereign, and thy vowed friend, I come, in kindness and unfeigned love, First, to do greetings to thy royal person;


From worthy Edward, King of Albion, My lord and sovereign, and thy vowed friend, I come, in kindness and unfeigned love, First, to do greetings to thy royal person;

And then to crave a league of amity; And lastly, to confirm that amity With a nuptial knot, if thou vouchsafe to grant That virtuous Lady Bona, thy fair sister, To England's king in lawful marriage.


And then to crave a league of amity; And lastly, to confirm that amity With a nuptial knot, if thou vouchsafe to grant That virtuous Lady Bona, thy fair sister, To England's king in lawful marriage.


King Lewis and Lady Bona, hear me speak, Before you answer Warwick. His demand Springs not from Edward's well-meant honest love, But from deceit bred by necessity;


King Lewis and Lady Bona, hear me speak, Before you answer Warwick. His demand Springs not from Edward's well-meant honest love, But from deceit bred by necessity;

For how can tyrants safely govern home, Unless abroad they purchase great alliance? To prove him tyrant this reason may suffice, That Henry liveth still:


For how can tyrants safely govern home, Unless abroad they purchase great alliance? To prove him tyrant this reason may suffice, That Henry liveth still:

but were he dead, Yet here Prince Edward stands, King Henry's son. Look, therefore, Lewis, that by this league and marriage Thou draw not on thy danger and dishonour;


but were he dead, Yet here Prince Edward stands, King Henry's son. Look, therefore, Lewis, that by this league and marriage Thou draw not on thy danger and dishonour;

For though usurpers sway the rule awhile, Yet heavens are just, and time suppresseth wrongs.


For though usurpers sway the rule awhile, Yet heavens are just, and time suppresseth wrongs.


Because thy father Henry did usurp; And thou no more are prince than she is queen.


Because thy father Henry did usurp; And thou no more are prince than she is queen.

Then Warwick disannuls great John of Gaunt, Which did subdue the greatest part of Spain; And, after John of Gaunt, Henry the Fourth, Whose wisdom was a mirror to the wisest;


Then Warwick disannuls great John of Gaunt, Which did subdue the greatest part of Spain; And, after John of Gaunt, Henry the Fourth, Whose wisdom was a mirror to the wisest;

And, after that wise prince, Henry the Fifth, Who by his prowess conquered all France: From these our Henry lineally descends.


And, after that wise prince, Henry the Fifth, Who by his prowess conquered all France: From these our Henry lineally descends.

Oxford, how haps it, in this smooth discourse, You told not how Henry the Sixth hath lost All that which Henry Fifth had gotten? Methinks these peers of France should smile at that.


Oxford, how haps it, in this smooth discourse, You told not how Henry the Sixth hath lost All that which Henry Fifth had gotten? Methinks these peers of France should smile at that.

But for the rest, you tell a pedigree Of threescore and two years; a silly time To make prescription for a kingdom's worth.


But for the rest, you tell a pedigree Of threescore and two years; a silly time To make prescription for a kingdom's worth.

Why, Warwick, canst thou speak against thy liege, Whom thou obeyed'st thirty and six years, And not bewray thy treason with a blush?


Why, Warwick, canst thou speak against thy liege, Whom thou obeyed'st thirty and six years, And not bewray thy treason with a blush?

Can Oxford, that did ever fence the right, Now buckler falsehood with a pedigree? For shame! leave Henry, and call Edward king.


Can Oxford, that did ever fence the right, Now buckler falsehood with a pedigree? For shame! leave Henry, and call Edward king.

Call him my king by whose injurious doom My elder brother, the Lord Aubrey Vere, Was done to death?


Call him my king by whose injurious doom My elder brother, the Lord Aubrey Vere, Was done to death?

and more than so, my father, Even in the downfall of his mellow'd years, When nature brought him to the door of death? No, Warwick, no;


and more than so, my father, Even in the downfall of his mellow'd years, When nature brought him to the door of death? No, Warwick, no;

while life upholds this arm, This arm upholds the house of Lancaster.


while life upholds this arm, This arm upholds the house of Lancaster.


Queen Margaret, Prince Edward, and Oxford, Vouchsafe, at our request, to stand aside, While I use further conference with Warwick.


Queen Margaret, Prince Edward, and Oxford, Vouchsafe, at our request, to stand aside, While I use further conference with Warwick.

Heavens grant that Warwick's words bewitch him not!


Heavens grant that Warwick's words bewitch him not!

Now Warwick, tell me, even upon thy conscience, Is Edward your true king? for I were loath To link with him that were not lawful chosen.


Now Warwick, tell me, even upon thy conscience, Is Edward your true king? for I were loath To link with him that were not lawful chosen.

Thereon I pawn my credit and mine honour.


Thereon I pawn my credit and mine honour.


Then further, all dissembling set aside, Tell me for truth the measure of his love Unto our sister Bona.


Then further, all dissembling set aside, Tell me for truth the measure of his love Unto our sister Bona.

Such it seems As may beseem a monarch like himself.


Such it seems As may beseem a monarch like himself.

Now, sister, let us hear your firm resolve.


Now, sister, let us hear your firm resolve.

Your grant, or your denial, shall be mine: Yet I confess that often ere this day, When I have heard your king's desert recounted, Mine ear hath tempted judgment to desire.


Your grant, or your denial, shall be mine: Yet I confess that often ere this day, When I have heard your king's desert recounted, Mine ear hath tempted judgment to desire.

Then, Warwick, thus: our sister shall be Edward's; And now forthwith shall articles be drawn Touching the jointure that your king must make, Which with her dowry shall be counterpoised.


Then, Warwick, thus: our sister shall be Edward's; And now forthwith shall articles be drawn Touching the jointure that your king must make, Which with her dowry shall be counterpoised.

Draw near, Queen Margaret, and be a witness That Bona shall be wife to the English king.


Draw near, Queen Margaret, and be a witness That Bona shall be wife to the English king.


Deceitful Warwick! it was thy device By this alliance to make void my suit: Before thy coming Lewis was Henry's friend.


Deceitful Warwick! it was thy device By this alliance to make void my suit: Before thy coming Lewis was Henry's friend.

And still is friend to him and Margaret: But if your title to the crown be weak, As may appear by Edward's good success, Then 'tis but reason that I be released From giving aid which late I promised.


And still is friend to him and Margaret: But if your title to the crown be weak, As may appear by Edward's good success, Then 'tis but reason that I be released From giving aid which late I promised.

Yet shall you have all kindness at my hand That your estate requires and mine can yield.


Yet shall you have all kindness at my hand That your estate requires and mine can yield.

Henry now lives in Scotland at his ease, Where having nothing, nothing can he lose. And as for you yourself, our quondam queen, You have a father able to maintain you;


Henry now lives in Scotland at his ease, Where having nothing, nothing can he lose. And as for you yourself, our quondam queen, You have a father able to maintain you;

And better 'twere you troubled him than France.


And better 'twere you troubled him than France.

Peace, impudent and shameless Warwick, peace, Proud setter up and puller down of kings!


Peace, impudent and shameless Warwick, peace, Proud setter up and puller down of kings!

I will not hence, till, with my talk and tears, Both full of truth, I make King Lewis behold Thy sly conveyance and thy lord's false love; For both of you are birds of selfsame feather.


I will not hence, till, with my talk and tears, Both full of truth, I make King Lewis behold Thy sly conveyance and thy lord's false love; For both of you are birds of selfsame feather.

Warwick, this is some post to us or thee.


Warwick, this is some post to us or thee.


I like it well that our fair queen and mistress Smiles at her news, while Warwick frowns at his.


I like it well that our fair queen and mistress Smiles at her news, while Warwick frowns at his.

Nay, mark how Lewis stamps, as he were nettled: I hope all's for the best.


Nay, mark how Lewis stamps, as he were nettled: I hope all's for the best.

Warwick, what are thy news? and yours, fair queen?


Warwick, what are thy news? and yours, fair queen?

Mine, such as fill my heart with unhoped joys.


Mine, such as fill my heart with unhoped joys.

Mine, full of sorrow and heart's discontent.


Mine, full of sorrow and heart's discontent.

What! has your king married the Lady Grey! And now, to soothe your forgery and his, Sends me a paper to persuade me patience? Is this the alliance that he seeks with France?


What! has your king married the Lady Grey! And now, to soothe your forgery and his, Sends me a paper to persuade me patience? Is this the alliance that he seeks with France?

Dare he presume to scorn us in this manner?


Dare he presume to scorn us in this manner?

I told your majesty as much before: This proveth Edward's love and Warwick's honesty.


I told your majesty as much before: This proveth Edward's love and Warwick's honesty.

Did I forget that by the house of York My father came untimely to his death? Did I let pass the abuse done to my niece? Did I impale him with the regal crown? Did I put Henry from his native right?


Did I forget that by the house of York My father came untimely to his death? Did I let pass the abuse done to my niece? Did I impale him with the regal crown? Did I put Henry from his native right?

And am I guerdon'd at the last with shame? Shame on himself! for my desert is honour: And to repair my honour lost for him, I here renounce him and return to Henry.


And am I guerdon'd at the last with shame? Shame on himself! for my desert is honour: And to repair my honour lost for him, I here renounce him and return to Henry.

My noble queen, let former grudges pass, And henceforth I am thy true servitor: I will revenge his wrong to Lady Bona, And replant Henry in his former state.


My noble queen, let former grudges pass, And henceforth I am thy true servitor: I will revenge his wrong to Lady Bona, And replant Henry in his former state.

Warwick, these words have turn'd my hate to love; And I forgive and quite forget old faults, And joy that thou becomest King Henry's friend.


Warwick, these words have turn'd my hate to love; And I forgive and quite forget old faults, And joy that thou becomest King Henry's friend.

'Tis not his new-made bride shall succor him:


'Tis not his new-made bride shall succor him:

And as for Clarence, as my letters tell me, He's very likely now to fall from him, For matching more for wanton lust than honour, Or than for strength and safety of our country.


And as for Clarence, as my letters tell me, He's very likely now to fall from him, For matching more for wanton lust than honour, Or than for strength and safety of our country.

Dear brother, how shall Bona be revenged But by thy help to this distressed queen?


Dear brother, how shall Bona be revenged But by thy help to this distressed queen?

Renowned prince, how shall poor Henry live, Unless thou rescue him from foul despair?


Renowned prince, how shall poor Henry live, Unless thou rescue him from foul despair?

My quarrel and this English queen's are one.


My quarrel and this English queen's are one.

And mine, fair lady Bona, joins with yours.


And mine, fair lady Bona, joins with yours.

And mine with hers, and thine, and Margaret's. Therefore at last I firmly am resolved You shall have aid.


And mine with hers, and thine, and Margaret's. Therefore at last I firmly am resolved You shall have aid.

Let me give humble thanks for all at once.


Let me give humble thanks for all at once.

Then, England's messenger, return in post, And tell false Edward, thy supposed king, That Lewis of France is sending over masquers To revel it with him and his new bride:


Then, England's messenger, return in post, And tell false Edward, thy supposed king, That Lewis of France is sending over masquers To revel it with him and his new bride:

Thou seest what's past, go fear thy king withal.


Thou seest what's past, go fear thy king withal.

Tell him, in hope he'll prove a widower shortly, I'll wear the willow garland for his sake.


Tell him, in hope he'll prove a widower shortly, I'll wear the willow garland for his sake.

Tell him, my mourning weeds are laid aside, And I am ready to put armour on.


Tell him, my mourning weeds are laid aside, And I am ready to put armour on.

Tell him from me that he hath done me wrong, And therefore I'll uncrown him ere't be long. There's thy reward: be gone.


Tell him from me that he hath done me wrong, And therefore I'll uncrown him ere't be long. There's thy reward: be gone.

But, Warwick, Thou and Oxford, with five thousand men, Shall cross the seas, and bid false Edward battle; And, as occasion serves, this noble queen And prince shall follow with a fresh supply.


But, Warwick, Thou and Oxford, with five thousand men, Shall cross the seas, and bid false Edward battle; And, as occasion serves, this noble queen And prince shall follow with a fresh supply.

Yet, ere thou go, but answer me one doubt, What pledge have we of thy firm loyalty?


Yet, ere thou go, but answer me one doubt, What pledge have we of thy firm loyalty?

This shall assure my constant loyalty, That if our queen and this young prince agree, I'll join mine eldest daughter and my joy To him forthwith in holy wedlock bands.


This shall assure my constant loyalty, That if our queen and this young prince agree, I'll join mine eldest daughter and my joy To him forthwith in holy wedlock bands.

Yes, I agree, and thank you for your motion. Son Edward, she is fair and virtuous, Therefore delay not, give thy hand to Warwick;


Yes, I agree, and thank you for your motion. Son Edward, she is fair and virtuous, Therefore delay not, give thy hand to Warwick;

And, with thy hand, thy faith irrevocable, That only Warwick's daughter shall be thine.


And, with thy hand, thy faith irrevocable, That only Warwick's daughter shall be thine.

Yes, I accept her, for she well deserves it; And here, to pledge my vow, I give my hand.


Yes, I accept her, for she well deserves it; And here, to pledge my vow, I give my hand.

Why stay we now? These soldiers shall be levied, And thou, Lord Bourbon, our high admiral, Shalt waft them over with our royal fleet.


Why stay we now? These soldiers shall be levied, And thou, Lord Bourbon, our high admiral, Shalt waft them over with our royal fleet.

I long till Edward fall by war's mischance, For mocking marriage with a dame of France.


I long till Edward fall by war's mischance, For mocking marriage with a dame of France.

I came from Edward as ambassador, But I return his sworn and mortal foe: Matter of marriage was the charge he gave me, But dreadful war shall answer his demand.


I came from Edward as ambassador, But I return his sworn and mortal foe: Matter of marriage was the charge he gave me, But dreadful war shall answer his demand.

Had he none else to make a stale but me? Then none but I shall turn his jest to sorrow. I was the chief that raised him to the crown, And I'll be chief to bring him down again:


Had he none else to make a stale but me? Then none but I shall turn his jest to sorrow. I was the chief that raised him to the crown, And I'll be chief to bring him down again:

Not that I pity Henry's misery, But seek revenge on Edward's mockery. 3 KING HENRY VI


Not that I pity Henry's misery, But seek revenge on Edward's mockery. 3 KING HENRY VI

Now tell me, brother Clarence, what think you Of this new marriage with the Lady Grey? Hath not our brother made a worthy choice?


Now tell me, brother Clarence, what think you Of this new marriage with the Lady Grey? Hath not our brother made a worthy choice?

Alas, you know, 'tis far from hence to France; How could he stay till Warwick made return?


Alas, you know, 'tis far from hence to France; How could he stay till Warwick made return?

My lords, forbear this talk; here comes the king.


My lords, forbear this talk; here comes the king.


I mind to tell him plainly what I think.


I mind to tell him plainly what I think.

Now, brother of Clarence, how like you our choice, That you stand pensive, as half malcontent?


Now, brother of Clarence, how like you our choice, That you stand pensive, as half malcontent?

As well as Lewis of France, or the Earl of Warwick, Which are so weak of courage and in judgment That they'll take no offence at our abuse.


As well as Lewis of France, or the Earl of Warwick, Which are so weak of courage and in judgment That they'll take no offence at our abuse.

Suppose they take offence without a cause, They are but Lewis and Warwick: I am Edward, Your king and Warwick's, and must have my will.


Suppose they take offence without a cause, They are but Lewis and Warwick: I am Edward, Your king and Warwick's, and must have my will.

And shall have your will, because our king: Yet hasty marriage seldom proveth well.


And shall have your will, because our king: Yet hasty marriage seldom proveth well.

Yea, brother Richard, are you offended too?


Yea, brother Richard, are you offended too?

Not I: No, God forbid that I should wish them sever'd Whom God hath join'd together; ay, and 'twere pity To sunder them that yoke so well together.


Not I: No, God forbid that I should wish them sever'd Whom God hath join'd together; ay, and 'twere pity To sunder them that yoke so well together.

Setting your scorns and your mislike aside, Tell me some reason why the Lady Grey Should not become my wife and England's queen. And you too, Somerset and Montague, Speak freely what you think.


Setting your scorns and your mislike aside, Tell me some reason why the Lady Grey Should not become my wife and England's queen. And you too, Somerset and Montague, Speak freely what you think.

Then this is mine opinion: that King Lewis Becomes your enemy, for mocking him About the marriage of the Lady Bona.


Then this is mine opinion: that King Lewis Becomes your enemy, for mocking him About the marriage of the Lady Bona.

And Warwick, doing what you gave in charge, Is now dishonoured by this new marriage.


And Warwick, doing what you gave in charge, Is now dishonoured by this new marriage.

What if both Lewis and Warwick be appeased By such invention as I can devise?


What if both Lewis and Warwick be appeased By such invention as I can devise?

Yet, to have join'd with France in such alliance Would more have strengthen'd this our commonwealth 'Gainst foreign storms than any home-bred marriage.


Yet, to have join'd with France in such alliance Would more have strengthen'd this our commonwealth 'Gainst foreign storms than any home-bred marriage.

Why, knows not Montague that of itself England is safe, if true within itself?


Why, knows not Montague that of itself England is safe, if true within itself?

But the safer when 'tis back'd with France.


But the safer when 'tis back'd with France.

'Tis better using France than trusting France: Let us be back'd with God and with the seas Which He hath given for fence impregnable, And with their helps only defend ourselves;


'Tis better using France than trusting France: Let us be back'd with God and with the seas Which He hath given for fence impregnable, And with their helps only defend ourselves;

In them and in ourselves our safety lies.


In them and in ourselves our safety lies.

For this one speech Lord Hastings well deserves To have the heir of the Lord Hungerford.


For this one speech Lord Hastings well deserves To have the heir of the Lord Hungerford.

Ay, what of that? it was my will and grant; And for this once my will shall stand for law.


Ay, what of that? it was my will and grant; And for this once my will shall stand for law.

And yet methinks your grace hath not done well, To give the heir and daughter of Lord Scales Unto the brother of your loving bride; She better would have fitted me or Clarence:


And yet methinks your grace hath not done well, To give the heir and daughter of Lord Scales Unto the brother of your loving bride; She better would have fitted me or Clarence:


Or else you would not have bestow'd the heir Of the Lord Bonville on your new wife's son, And leave your brothers to go speed elsewhere.


Or else you would not have bestow'd the heir Of the Lord Bonville on your new wife's son, And leave your brothers to go speed elsewhere.

Alas, poor Clarence! is it for a wife That thou art malcontent? I will provide thee.


Alas, poor Clarence! is it for a wife That thou art malcontent? I will provide thee.

In choosing for yourself, you show'd your judgment, Which being shallow, you give me leave To play the broker in mine own behalf; And to that end I shortly mind to leave you.


In choosing for yourself, you show'd your judgment, Which being shallow, you give me leave To play the broker in mine own behalf; And to that end I shortly mind to leave you.

Leave me, or tarry, Edward will be king, And not be tied unto his brother's will.


Leave me, or tarry, Edward will be king, And not be tied unto his brother's will.

My lords, before it pleased his majesty To raise my state to title of a queen, Do me but right, and you must all confess That I was not ignoble of descent;


My lords, before it pleased his majesty To raise my state to title of a queen, Do me but right, and you must all confess That I was not ignoble of descent;

And meaner than myself have had like fortune. But as this title honours me and mine, So your dislike, to whom I would be pleasing, Doth cloud my joys with danger and with sorrow.


And meaner than myself have had like fortune. But as this title honours me and mine, So your dislike, to whom I would be pleasing, Doth cloud my joys with danger and with sorrow.

My love, forbear to fawn upon their frowns: What danger or what sorrow can befall thee, So long as Edward is thy constant friend, And their true sovereign, whom they must obey?


My love, forbear to fawn upon their frowns: What danger or what sorrow can befall thee, So long as Edward is thy constant friend, And their true sovereign, whom they must obey?

Nay, whom they shall obey, and love thee too, Unless they seek for hatred at my hands; Which if they do, yet will I keep thee safe, And they shall feel the vengeance of my wrath.


Nay, whom they shall obey, and love thee too, Unless they seek for hatred at my hands; Which if they do, yet will I keep thee safe, And they shall feel the vengeance of my wrath.


Now, messenger, what letters or what news From France?


Now, messenger, what letters or what news From France?

My sovereign liege, no letters; and few words, But such as I, without your special pardon, Dare not relate.


My sovereign liege, no letters; and few words, But such as I, without your special pardon, Dare not relate.

Go to, we pardon thee: therefore, in brief, Tell me their words as near as thou canst guess them. What answer makes King Lewis unto our letters?


Go to, we pardon thee: therefore, in brief, Tell me their words as near as thou canst guess them. What answer makes King Lewis unto our letters?

At my depart, these were his very words: 'Go tell false Edward, thy supposed king, That Lewis of France is sending over masquers To revel it with him and his new bride.'


At my depart, these were his very words: 'Go tell false Edward, thy supposed king, That Lewis of France is sending over masquers To revel it with him and his new bride.'

Is Lewis so brave? belike he thinks me Henry. But what said Lady Bona to my marriage?


Is Lewis so brave? belike he thinks me Henry. But what said Lady Bona to my marriage?

These were her words, utter'd with mad disdain: 'Tell him, in hope he'll prove a widower shortly, I'll wear the willow garland for his sake.'


These were her words, utter'd with mad disdain: 'Tell him, in hope he'll prove a widower shortly, I'll wear the willow garland for his sake.'

I blame not her, she could say little less; She had the wrong. But what said Henry's queen? For I have heard that she was there in place.


I blame not her, she could say little less; She had the wrong. But what said Henry's queen? For I have heard that she was there in place.

'Tell him,' quoth she, 'my mourning weeds are done, And I am ready to put armour on.'


'Tell him,' quoth she, 'my mourning weeds are done, And I am ready to put armour on.'

Belike she minds to play the Amazon. But what said Warwick to these injuries?


Belike she minds to play the Amazon. But what said Warwick to these injuries?

He, more incensed against your majesty Than all the rest, discharged me with these words: 'Tell him from me that he hath done me wrong, And therefore I'll uncrown him ere't be long.'


He, more incensed against your majesty Than all the rest, discharged me with these words: 'Tell him from me that he hath done me wrong, And therefore I'll uncrown him ere't be long.'

Ha! durst the traitor breathe out so proud words? Well I will arm me, being thus forewarn'd: They shall have wars and pay for their presumption. But say, is Warwick friends with Margaret?


Ha! durst the traitor breathe out so proud words? Well I will arm me, being thus forewarn'd: They shall have wars and pay for their presumption. But say, is Warwick friends with Margaret?

Ay, gracious sovereign; they are so link'd in friendship That young Prince Edward marries Warwick's daughter.


Ay, gracious sovereign; they are so link'd in friendship That young Prince Edward marries Warwick's daughter.

Belike the elder; Clarence will have the younger. Now, brother king, farewell, and sit you fast, For I will hence to Warwick's other daughter;


Belike the elder; Clarence will have the younger. Now, brother king, farewell, and sit you fast, For I will hence to Warwick's other daughter;

That, though I want a kingdom, yet in marriage I may not prove inferior to yourself. You that love me and Warwick, follow me.


That, though I want a kingdom, yet in marriage I may not prove inferior to yourself. You that love me and Warwick, follow me.


Clarence and Somerset both gone to Warwick! Yet am I arm'd against the worst can happen; And haste is needful in this desperate case.


Clarence and Somerset both gone to Warwick! Yet am I arm'd against the worst can happen; And haste is needful in this desperate case.

Pembroke and Stafford, you in our behalf Go levy men, and make prepare for war; They are already, or quickly will be landed: Myself in person will straight follow you.


Pembroke and Stafford, you in our behalf Go levy men, and make prepare for war; They are already, or quickly will be landed: Myself in person will straight follow you.

But, ere I go, Hastings and Montague, Resolve my doubt. You twain, of all the rest, Are near to Warwick by blood and by alliance: Tell me if you love Warwick more than me?


But, ere I go, Hastings and Montague, Resolve my doubt. You twain, of all the rest, Are near to Warwick by blood and by alliance: Tell me if you love Warwick more than me?

If it be so, then both depart to him; I rather wish you foes than hollow friends:


If it be so, then both depart to him; I rather wish you foes than hollow friends:

But if you mind to hold your true obedience, Give me assurance with some friendly vow, That I may never have you in suspect.


But if you mind to hold your true obedience, Give me assurance with some friendly vow, That I may never have you in suspect.


And Hastings as he favours Edward's cause!


And Hastings as he favours Edward's cause!

Now, brother Richard, will you stand by us?


Now, brother Richard, will you stand by us?

Ay, in despite of all that shall withstand you.


Ay, in despite of all that shall withstand you.

Why, so! then am I sure of victory. Now therefore let us hence; and lose no hour, Till we meet Warwick with his foreign power. 3 KING HENRY VI


Why, so! then am I sure of victory. Now therefore let us hence; and lose no hour, Till we meet Warwick with his foreign power. 3 KING HENRY VI

Trust me, my lord, all hitherto goes well; The common people by numbers swarm to us. But see where Somerset and Clarence come! Speak suddenly, my lords, are we all friends?


Trust me, my lord, all hitherto goes well; The common people by numbers swarm to us. But see where Somerset and Clarence come! Speak suddenly, my lords, are we all friends?


Then, gentle Clarence, welcome unto Warwick; And welcome, Somerset: I hold it cowardice To rest mistrustful where a noble heart Hath pawn'd an open hand in sign of love;


Then, gentle Clarence, welcome unto Warwick; And welcome, Somerset: I hold it cowardice To rest mistrustful where a noble heart Hath pawn'd an open hand in sign of love;

Else might I think that Clarence, Edward's brother, Were but a feigned friend to our proceedings: But welcome, sweet Clarence; my daughter shall be thine.


Else might I think that Clarence, Edward's brother, Were but a feigned friend to our proceedings: But welcome, sweet Clarence; my daughter shall be thine.

Our scouts have found the adventure very easy: I say not, slaughter him, For I intend but only to surprise him. You that will follow me to this attempt, Applaud the name of Henry with your leader.


Our scouts have found the adventure very easy: I say not, slaughter him, For I intend but only to surprise him. You that will follow me to this attempt, Applaud the name of Henry with your leader.

Why, then, let's on our way in silent sort: For Warwick and his friends, God and Saint George! 3 KING HENRY VI


Why, then, let's on our way in silent sort: For Warwick and his friends, God and Saint George! 3 KING HENRY VI

Come on, my masters, each man take his stand: The king by this is set him down to sleep.


Come on, my masters, each man take his stand: The king by this is set him down to sleep.


Why, no; for he hath made a solemn vow Never to lie and take his natural rest Till Warwick or himself be quite suppress'd.


Why, no; for he hath made a solemn vow Never to lie and take his natural rest Till Warwick or himself be quite suppress'd.

To-morrow then belike shall be the day, If Warwick be so near as men report.


To-morrow then belike shall be the day, If Warwick be so near as men report.

But say, I pray, what nobleman is that That with the king here resteth in his tent?


But say, I pray, what nobleman is that That with the king here resteth in his tent?

'Tis the Lord Hastings, the king's chiefest friend.


'Tis the Lord Hastings, the king's chiefest friend.

O, is it so? But why commands the king That his chief followers lodge in towns about him, While he himself keeps in the cold field?


O, is it so? But why commands the king That his chief followers lodge in towns about him, While he himself keeps in the cold field?

'Tis the more honour, because more dangerous.


'Tis the more honour, because more dangerous.

Ay, but give me worship and quietness; I like it better than a dangerous honour. If Warwick knew in what estate he stands, 'Tis to be doubted he would waken him.


Ay, but give me worship and quietness; I like it better than a dangerous honour. If Warwick knew in what estate he stands, 'Tis to be doubted he would waken him.

Unless our halberds did shut up his passage.


Unless our halberds did shut up his passage.

Ay, wherefore else guard we his royal tent, But to defend his person from night-foes?


Ay, wherefore else guard we his royal tent, But to defend his person from night-foes?

This is his tent; and see where stand his guard. Courage, my masters! honour now or never! But follow me, and Edward shall be ours.


This is his tent; and see where stand his guard. Courage, my masters! honour now or never! But follow me, and Edward shall be ours.


Richard and Hastings: let them go; here is The duke.


Richard and Hastings: let them go; here is The duke.

The duke! Why, Warwick, when we parted, Thou call'dst me king.


The duke! Why, Warwick, when we parted, Thou call'dst me king.

Ay, but the case is alter'd: When you disgraced me in my embassade, Then I degraded you from being king, And come now to create you Duke of York. Alas!


Ay, but the case is alter'd: When you disgraced me in my embassade, Then I degraded you from being king, And come now to create you Duke of York. Alas!

Yea, brother of Clarence, are thou here too? Nay, then I see that Edward needs must down.


Yea, brother of Clarence, are thou here too? Nay, then I see that Edward needs must down.

Yet, Warwick, in despite of all mischance, Of thee thyself and all thy complices, Edward will always bear himself as king:


Yet, Warwick, in despite of all mischance, Of thee thyself and all thy complices, Edward will always bear himself as king:

Though fortune's malice overthrow my state, My mind exceeds the compass of her wheel.


Though fortune's malice overthrow my state, My mind exceeds the compass of her wheel.

Then, for his mind, be Edward England's king: But Henry now shall wear the English crown, And be true king indeed, thou but the shadow.


Then, for his mind, be Edward England's king: But Henry now shall wear the English crown, And be true king indeed, thou but the shadow.

My Lord of Somerset, at my request, See that forthwith Duke Edward be convey'd Unto my brother, Archbishop of York.


My Lord of Somerset, at my request, See that forthwith Duke Edward be convey'd Unto my brother, Archbishop of York.

When I have fought with Pembroke and his fellows, I'll follow you, and tell what answer Lewis and the Lady Bona send to him. Now, for a while farewell, good Duke of York.


When I have fought with Pembroke and his fellows, I'll follow you, and tell what answer Lewis and the Lady Bona send to him. Now, for a while farewell, good Duke of York.

What fates impose, that men must needs abide; It boots not to resist both wind and tide.


What fates impose, that men must needs abide; It boots not to resist both wind and tide.

What now remains, my lords, for us to do But march to London with our soldiers?


What now remains, my lords, for us to do But march to London with our soldiers?

Ay, that's the first thing that we have to do; To free King Henry from imprisonment And see him seated in the regal throne. 3 KING HENRY VI


Ay, that's the first thing that we have to do; To free King Henry from imprisonment And see him seated in the regal throne. 3 KING HENRY VI

Madam, what makes you in this sudden change?


Madam, what makes you in this sudden change?

Why brother Rivers, are you yet to learn What late misfortune is befall'n King Edward?


Why brother Rivers, are you yet to learn What late misfortune is befall'n King Edward?

What! loss of some pitch'd battle against Warwick?


What! loss of some pitch'd battle against Warwick?

No, but the loss of his own royal person.


No, but the loss of his own royal person.


Ay, almost slain, for he is taken prisoner, Either betray'd by falsehood of his guard Or by his foe surprised at unawares:


Ay, almost slain, for he is taken prisoner, Either betray'd by falsehood of his guard Or by his foe surprised at unawares:

And, as I further have to understand, Is new committed to the Bishop of York, Fell Warwick's brother and by that our foe.