diff options
| author | nfenwick <nfenwick@pglaf.org> | 2025-03-31 01:09:11 -0700 |
|---|---|---|
| committer | nfenwick <nfenwick@pglaf.org> | 2025-03-31 01:09:11 -0700 |
| commit | a86fc39f031aa7b81ab90c4ece0e5342f92364cf (patch) | |
| tree | 89d80fe256783de90fb7037332b6925092991381 | |
| parent | 1c9c8443178a3bd968b13e2105119cdd24f382ea (diff) | |
fileset as of 2023-03-22 04:45:14
| -rw-r--r-- | 100-0.txt | 8758 | ||||
| -rw-r--r-- | 100-0.zip | bin | 2146169 -> 2144262 bytes | |||
| -rw-r--r-- | 100-h.zip | bin | 2657066 -> 2656828 bytes | |||
| -rw-r--r-- | 100-h/100-h.htm | 10448 |
4 files changed, 11858 insertions, 7348 deletions
@@ -13,7 +13,7 @@ Title: The Complete Works of William Shakespeare Author: William Shakespeare Release Date: January 1994 [eBook #100] -[Most recently updated: March 13, 2023] +[Most recently updated: March 22, 2023] Language: English @@ -67021,3649 +67021,5139 @@ For here, I hope, begins our lasting joy. KING HENRY THE EIGHTH -DRAMATIS PERSONAE - KING HENRY THE EIGHTH - CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL CAMPEIUS - CAPUCIUS, Ambassador from the Emperor Charles V - CRANMER, ARCHBISHOP OF CANTERBURY - DUKE OF NORFOLK DUKE OF BUCKINGHAM - DUKE OF SUFFOLK EARL OF SURREY - LORD CHAMBERLAIN LORD CHANCELLOR - GARDINER, BISHOP OF WINCHESTER - BISHOP OF LINCOLN LORD ABERGAVENNY - LORD SANDYS SIR HENRY GUILDFORD - SIR THOMAS LOVELL SIR ANTHONY DENNY - SIR NICHOLAS VAUX SECRETARIES to Wolsey - CROMWELL, servant to Wolsey - GRIFFITH, gentleman-usher to Queen Katharine - THREE GENTLEMEN - DOCTOR BUTTS, physician to the King - GARTER KING-AT-ARMS - SURVEYOR to the Duke of Buckingham - BRANDON, and a SERGEANT-AT-ARMS - DOORKEEPER Of the Council chamber - PORTER, and his MAN PAGE to Gardiner - A CRIER - - QUEEN KATHARINE, wife to King Henry, afterwards divorced - ANNE BULLEN, her Maid of Honour, afterwards Queen - AN OLD LADY, friend to Anne Bullen - PATIENCE, woman to Queen Katharine - - Lord Mayor, Aldermen, Lords and Ladies in the Dumb - Shows; Women attending upon the Queen; Scribes, - Officers, Guards, and other Attendants; Spirits - - SCENE: - - London; Westminster; Kimbolton - - KING HENRY THE EIGHTH - - THE PROLOGUE. - - I come no more to make you laugh; things now - That bear a weighty and a serious brow, - Sad, high, and working, full of state and woe, - Such noble scenes as draw the eye to flow, - We now present. Those that can pity here - May, if they think it well, let fall a tear: - The subject will deserve it. Such as give - Their money out of hope they may believe - May here find truth too. Those that come to see - Only a show or two, and so agree - The play may pass, if they be still and willing, - I'll undertake may see away their shilling - Richly in two short hours. Only they - That come to hear a merry bawdy play, - A noise of targets, or to see a fellow - In a long motley coat guarded with yellow, - Will be deceiv'd; for, gentle hearers, know, - To rank our chosen truth with such a show - As fool and fight is, beside forfeiting - Our own brains, and the opinion that we bring - To make that only true we now intend, - Will leave us never an understanding friend. - Therefore, for goodness sake, and as you are known - The first and happiest hearers of the town, - Be sad, as we would make ye. Think ye see - The very persons of our noble story - As they were living; think you see them great, - And follow'd with the general throng and sweat - Of thousand friends; then, in a moment, see - How soon this mightiness meets misery. - And if you can be merry then, I'll say - A man may weep upon his wedding-day. -ACT I. SCENE 1. -London. The palace - -Enter the DUKE OF NORFOLK at one door; at the other, the DUKE OF -BUCKINGHAM and the LORD ABERGAVENNY - - BUCKINGHAM. Good morrow, and well met. How have ye done - Since last we saw in France? - NORFOLK. I thank your Grace, - Healthful; and ever since a fresh admirer - Of what I saw there. - BUCKINGHAM. An untimely ague - Stay'd me a prisoner in my chamber when - Those suns of glory, those two lights of men, - Met in the vale of Andren. - NORFOLK. 'Twixt Guynes and Arde- - I was then present, saw them salute on horseback; - Beheld them, when they lighted, how they clung - In their embracement, as they grew together; - Which had they, what four thron'd ones could have weigh'd - Such a compounded one? - BUCKINGHAM. All the whole time - I was my chamber's prisoner. - NORFOLK. Then you lost - The view of earthly glory; men might say, - Till this time pomp was single, but now married - To one above itself. Each following day - Became the next day's master, till the last - Made former wonders its. To-day the French, - All clinquant, all in gold, like heathen gods, - Shone down the English; and to-morrow they - Made Britain India: every man that stood - Show'd like a mine. Their dwarfish pages were - As cherubins, an gilt; the madams too, - Not us'd to toil, did almost sweat to bear - The pride upon them, that their very labour - Was to them as a painting. Now this masque - Was cried incomparable; and th' ensuing night - Made it a fool and beggar. The two kings, - Equal in lustre, were now best, now worst, - As presence did present them: him in eye - still him in praise; and being present both, - 'Twas said they saw but one, and no discerner - Durst wag his tongue in censure. When these suns- - For so they phrase 'em-by their heralds challeng'd - The noble spirits to arms, they did perform - Beyond thought's compass, that former fabulous story, - Being now seen possible enough, got credit, - That Bevis was believ'd. - BUCKINGHAM. O, you go far! - NORFOLK. As I belong to worship, and affect - In honour honesty, the tract of ev'rything - Would by a good discourser lose some life - Which action's self was tongue to. All was royal: - To the disposing of it nought rebell'd; - Order gave each thing view. The office did - Distinctly his full function. - BUCKINGHAM. Who did guide- - I mean, who set the body and the limbs - Of this great sport together, as you guess? - NORFOLK. One, certes, that promises no element - In such a business. - BUCKINGHAM. I pray you, who, my lord? - NORFOLK. All this was ord'red by the good discretion - Of the right reverend Cardinal of York. - BUCKINGHAM. The devil speed him! No man's pie is freed - From his ambitious finger. What had he - To do in these fierce vanities? I wonder - That such a keech can with his very bulk - Take up the rays o' th' beneficial sun, - And keep it from the earth. - NORFOLK. Surely, sir, - There's in him stuff that puts him to these ends; - For, being not propp'd by ancestry, whose grace - Chalks successors their way, nor call'd upon - For high feats done to th' crown, neither allied - To eminent assistants, but spider-like, - Out of his self-drawing web, 'a gives us note - The force of his own merit makes his way- - A gift that heaven gives for him, which buys - A place next to the King. - ABERGAVENNY. I cannot tell - What heaven hath given him-let some graver eye - Pierce into that; but I can see his pride - Peep through each part of him. Whence has he that? - If not from hell, the devil is a niggard - Or has given all before, and he begins - A new hell in himself. - BUCKINGHAM. Why the devil, - Upon this French going out, took he upon him- - Without the privity o' th' King-t' appoint - Who should attend on him? He makes up the file - Of all the gentry; for the most part such - To whom as great a charge as little honour - He meant to lay upon; and his own letter, - The honourable board of council out, - Must fetch him in he papers. - ABERGAVENNY. I do know - Kinsmen of mine, three at the least, that have - By this so sicken'd their estates that never - They shall abound as formerly. - BUCKINGHAM. O, many - Have broke their backs with laying manors on 'em - For this great journey. What did this vanity - But minister communication of - A most poor issue? - NORFOLK. Grievingly I think - The peace between the French and us not values - The cost that did conclude it. - BUCKINGHAM. Every man, - After the hideous storm that follow'd, was - A thing inspir'd, and, not consulting, broke - Into a general prophecy-that this tempest, - Dashing the garment of this peace, aboded - The sudden breach on't. - NORFOLK. Which is budded out; - For France hath flaw'd the league, and hath attach'd - Our merchants' goods at Bordeaux. - ABERGAVENNY. Is it therefore - Th' ambassador is silenc'd? - NORFOLK. Marry, is't. - ABERGAVENNY. A proper tide of a peace, and purchas'd - At a superfluous rate! - BUCKINGHAM. Why, all this business - Our reverend Cardinal carried. - NORFOLK. Like it your Grace, - The state takes notice of the private difference - Betwixt you and the Cardinal. I advise you- - And take it from a heart that wishes towards you - Honour and plenteous safety-that you read - The Cardinal's malice and his potency - Together; to consider further, that - What his high hatred would effect wants not - A minister in his power. You know his nature, - That he's revengeful; and I know his sword - Hath a sharp edge-it's long and't may be said - It reaches far, and where 'twill not extend, - Thither he darts it. Bosom up my counsel - You'll find it wholesome. Lo, where comes that rock - That I advise your shunning. - - Enter CARDINAL WOLSEY, the purse borne before him, certain of the - guard, and two SECRETARIES with papers. The CARDINAL in his - passage fixeth his eye on BUCKINGHAM, and BUCKINGHAM on him, both - full of disdain - - WOLSEY. The Duke of Buckingham's surveyor? Ha! - Where's his examination? - SECRETARY. Here, so please you. - WOLSEY. Is he in person ready? - SECRETARY. Ay, please your Grace. - WOLSEY. Well, we shall then know more, and Buckingham - shall lessen this big look. - Exeunt WOLSEY and his train - BUCKINGHAM. This butcher's cur is venom-mouth'd, and I - Have not the power to muzzle him; therefore best - Not wake him in his slumber. A beggar's book - Outworths a noble's blood. - NORFOLK. What, are you chaf'd? - Ask God for temp'rance; that's th' appliance only - Which your disease requires. - BUCKINGHAM. I read in's looks - Matter against me, and his eye revil'd - Me as his abject object. At this instant - He bores me with some trick. He's gone to th' King; - I'll follow, and outstare him. - NORFOLK. Stay, my lord, - And let your reason with your choler question - What 'tis you go about. To climb steep hills - Requires slow pace at first. Anger is like - A full hot horse, who being allow'd his way, - Self-mettle tires him. Not a man in England - Can advise me like you; be to yourself - As you would to your friend. - BUCKINGHAM. I'll to the King, - And from a mouth of honour quite cry down - This Ipswich fellow's insolence; or proclaim - There's difference in no persons. - NORFOLK. Be advis'd: - Heat not a furnace for your foe so hot - That it do singe yourself. We may outrun - By violent swiftness that which we run at, - And lose by over-running. Know you not - The fire that mounts the liquor till't run o'er - In seeming to augment it wastes it? Be advis'd. - I say again there is no English soul - More stronger to direct you than yourself, - If with the sap of reason you would quench - Or but allay the fire of passion. - BUCKINGHAM. Sir, - I am thankful to you, and I'll go along - By your prescription; but this top-proud fellow- - Whom from the flow of gan I name not, but - From sincere motions, by intelligence, - And proofs as clear as founts in July when - We see each grain of gravel-I do know - To be corrupt and treasonous. - NORFOLK. Say not treasonous. - BUCKINGHAM. To th' King I'll say't, and make my vouch as strong - As shore of rock. Attend: this holy fox, - Or wolf, or both-for he is equal rav'nous - As he is subtle, and as prone to mischief - As able to perform't, his mind and place - Infecting one another, yea, reciprocally- - Only to show his pomp as well in France - As here at home, suggests the King our master - To this last costly treaty, th' interview - That swallowed so much treasure and like a glass - Did break i' th' wrenching. - NORFOLK. Faith, and so it did. - BUCKINGHAM. Pray, give me favour, sir; this cunning cardinal - The articles o' th' combination drew - As himself pleas'd; and they were ratified - As he cried 'Thus let be' to as much end - As give a crutch to th' dead. But our Count-Cardinal - Has done this, and 'tis well; for worthy Wolsey, - Who cannot err, he did it. Now this follows, - Which, as I take it, is a kind of puppy - To th' old dam treason: Charles the Emperor, - Under pretence to see the Queen his aunt- - For 'twas indeed his colour, but he came - To whisper Wolsey-here makes visitation- - His fears were that the interview betwixt - England and France might through their amity - Breed him some prejudice; for from this league - Peep'd harms that menac'd him-privily - Deals with our Cardinal; and, as I trow- - Which I do well, for I am sure the Emperor - Paid ere he promis'd; whereby his suit was granted - Ere it was ask'd-but when the way was made, - And pav'd with gold, the Emperor thus desir'd, - That he would please to alter the King's course, - And break the foresaid peace. Let the King know, - As soon he shall by me, that thus the Cardinal - Does buy and sell his honour as he pleases, - And for his own advantage. - NORFOLK. I am sorry - To hear this of him, and could wish he were - Something mistaken in't. - BUCKINGHAM. No, not a syllable: - I do pronounce him in that very shape - He shall appear in proof. - - Enter BRANDON, a SERGEANT-AT-ARMS before him, - and two or three of the guard - - BRANDON. Your office, sergeant: execute it. - SERGEANT. Sir, - My lord the Duke of Buckingham, and Earl - Of Hereford, Stafford, and Northampton, I - Arrest thee of high treason, in the name - Of our most sovereign King. - BUCKINGHAM. Lo you, my lord, - The net has fall'n upon me! I shall perish - Under device and practice. - BRANDON. I am sorry - To see you ta'en from liberty, to look on - The business present; 'tis his Highness' pleasure - You shall to th' Tower. - BUCKINGHAM. It will help nothing - To plead mine innocence; for that dye is on me - Which makes my whit'st part black. The will of heav'n - Be done in this and all things! I obey. - O my Lord Aberga'ny, fare you well! - BRANDON. Nay, he must bear you company. - [To ABERGAVENNY] The King - Is pleas'd you shall to th' Tower, till you know - How he determines further. - ABERGAVENNY. As the Duke said, - The will of heaven be done, and the King's pleasure - By me obey'd. - BRANDON. Here is warrant from - The King t' attach Lord Montacute and the bodies - Of the Duke's confessor, John de la Car, - One Gilbert Peck, his chancellor- - BUCKINGHAM. So, so! - These are the limbs o' th' plot; no more, I hope. - BRANDON. A monk o' th' Chartreux. - BUCKINGHAM. O, Nicholas Hopkins? - BRANDON. He. - BUCKINGHAM. My surveyor is false. The o'er-great Cardinal - Hath show'd him gold; my life is spann'd already. - I am the shadow of poor Buckingham, - Whose figure even this instant cloud puts on - By dark'ning my clear sun. My lord, farewell. - Exeunt - -ACT I. SCENE 2. - -London. The Council Chamber - -Cornets. Enter KING HENRY, leaning on the CARDINAL'S shoulder, the -NOBLES, and SIR THOMAS LOVELL, with others. The CARDINAL places himself -under the KING'S feet on his right side - - KING. My life itself, and the best heart of it, - Thanks you for this great care; I stood i' th' level - Of a full-charg'd confederacy, and give thanks - To you that chok'd it. Let be call'd before us - That gentleman of Buckingham's. In person - I'll hear his confessions justify; - And point by point the treasons of his master - He shall again relate. - - A noise within, crying 'Room for the Queen!' Enter the QUEEN, - usher'd by the DUKES OF NORFOLK and SUFFOLK; she kneels. The KING - riseth from his state, takes her up, kisses and placeth her by - him - - QUEEN KATHARINE. Nay, we must longer kneel: I am suitor. - KING. Arise, and take place by us. Half your suit - Never name to us: you have half our power. - The other moiety ere you ask is given; - Repeat your will, and take it. - QUEEN KATHARINE. Thank your Majesty. - That you would love yourself, and in that love - Not unconsidered leave your honour nor - The dignity of your office, is the point - Of my petition. - KING. Lady mine, proceed. - QUEEN KATHARINE. I am solicited, not by a few, - And those of true condition, that your subjects - Are in great grievance: there have been commissions - Sent down among 'em which hath flaw'd the heart - Of all their loyalties; wherein, although, - My good Lord Cardinal, they vent reproaches - Most bitterly on you as putter-on - Of these exactions, yet the King our master- - Whose honour Heaven shield from soil!-even he escapes not - Language unmannerly; yea, such which breaks - The sides of loyalty, and almost appears - In loud rebellion. - NORFOLK. Not almost appears- - It doth appear; for, upon these taxations, - The clothiers all, not able to maintain - The many to them 'longing, have put of - The spinsters, carders, fullers, weavers, who - Unfit for other life, compell'd by hunger - And lack of other means, in desperate manner - Daring th' event to th' teeth, are all in uproar, - And danger serves among them. - KING. Taxation! - Wherein? and what taxation? My Lord Cardinal, - You that are blam'd for it alike with us, - Know you of this taxation? - WOLSEY. Please you, sir, - I know but of a single part in aught - Pertains to th' state, and front but in that file - Where others tell steps with me. - QUEEN KATHARINE. No, my lord! - You know no more than others! But you frame - Things that are known alike, which are not wholesome - To those which would not know them, and yet must - Perforce be their acquaintance. These exactions, - Whereof my sovereign would have note, they are - Most pestilent to th' hearing; and to bear 'em - The back is sacrifice to th' load. They say - They are devis'd by you, or else you suffer - Too hard an exclamation. - KING. Still exaction! - The nature of it? In what kind, let's know, - Is this exaction? - QUEEN KATHARINE. I am much too venturous - In tempting of your patience, but am bold'ned - Under your promis'd pardon. The subjects' grief - Comes through commissions, which compels from each - The sixth part of his substance, to be levied - Without delay; and the pretence for this - Is nam'd your wars in France. This makes bold mouths; - Tongues spit their duties out, and cold hearts freeze - Allegiance in them; their curses now - Live where their prayers did; and it's come to pass - This tractable obedience is a slave - To each incensed will. I would your Highness - Would give it quick consideration, for - There is no primer business. - KING. By my life, - This is against our pleasure. - WOLSEY. And for me, - I have no further gone in this than by - A single voice; and that not pass'd me but - By learned approbation of the judges. If I am - Traduc'd by ignorant tongues, which neither know - My faculties nor person, yet will be - The chronicles of my doing, let me say - 'Tis but the fate of place, and the rough brake - That virtue must go through. We must not stint - Our necessary actions in the fear - To cope malicious censurers, which ever - As rav'nous fishes do a vessel follow - That is new-trimm'd, but benefit no further - Than vainly longing. What we oft do best, - By sick interpreters, once weak ones, is - Not ours, or not allow'd; what worst, as oft - Hitting a grosser quality, is cried up - For our best act. If we shall stand still, - In fear our motion will be mock'd or carp'd at, - We should take root here where we sit, or sit - State-statues only. - KING. Things done well - And with a care exempt themselves from fear: - Things done without example, in their issue - Are to be fear'd. Have you a precedent - Of this commission? I believe, not any. - We must not rend our subjects from our laws, - And stick them in our will. Sixth part of each? - A trembling contribution! Why, we take - From every tree lop, bark, and part o' th' timber; - And though we leave it with a root, thus hack'd, - The air will drink the sap. To every county - Where this is question'd send our letters with - Free pardon to each man that has denied - The force of this commission. Pray, look tot; - I put it to your care. - WOLSEY. [Aside to the SECRETARY] A word with you. - Let there be letters writ to every shire - Of the King's grace and pardon. The grieved commons - Hardly conceive of me-let it be nois'd - That through our intercession this revokement - And pardon comes. I shall anon advise you - Further in the proceeding. Exit SECRETARY - - Enter SURVEYOR - - QUEEN KATHARINE. I am sorry that the Duke of Buckingham - Is run in your displeasure. - KING. It grieves many. - The gentleman is learn'd and a most rare speaker; - To nature none more bound; his training such - That he may furnish and instruct great teachers - And never seek for aid out of himself. Yet see, - When these so noble benefits shall prove - Not well dispos'd, the mind growing once corrupt, - They turn to vicious forms, ten times more ugly - Than ever they were fair. This man so complete, - Who was enroll'd 'mongst wonders, and when we, - Almost with ravish'd list'ning, could not find - His hour of speech a minute-he, my lady, - Hath into monstrous habits put the graces - That once were his, and is become as black - As if besmear'd in hell. Sit by us; you shall hear- - This was his gentleman in trust-of him - Things to strike honour sad. Bid him recount - The fore-recited practices, whereof - We cannot feel too little, hear too much. - WOLSEY. Stand forth, and with bold spirit relate what you, - Most like a careful subject, have collected - Out of the Duke of Buckingham. - KING. Speak freely. - SURVEYOR. First, it was usual with him-every day - It would infect his speech-that if the King - Should without issue die, he'll carry it so - To make the sceptre his. These very words - I've heard him utter to his son-in-law, - Lord Aberga'ny, to whom by oath he menac'd - Revenge upon the Cardinal. - WOLSEY. Please your Highness, note - This dangerous conception in this point: - Not friended by his wish, to your high person - His will is most malignant, and it stretches - Beyond you to your friends. - QUEEN KATHARINE. My learn'd Lord Cardinal, - Deliver all with charity. - KING. Speak on. - How grounded he his title to the crown - Upon our fail? To this point hast thou heard him - At any time speak aught? - SURVEYOR. He was brought to this - By a vain prophecy of Nicholas Henton. - KING. What was that Henton? - SURVEYOR. Sir, a Chartreux friar, - His confessor, who fed him every minute - With words of sovereignty. - KING. How know'st thou this? - SURVEYOR. Not long before your Highness sped to France, - The Duke being at the Rose, within the parish - Saint Lawrence Poultney, did of me demand - What was the speech among the Londoners - Concerning the French journey. I replied - Men fear'd the French would prove perfidious, - To the King's danger. Presently the Duke - Said 'twas the fear indeed and that he doubted - 'Twould prove the verity of certain words - Spoke by a holy monk 'that oft' says he - 'Hath sent to me, wishing me to permit - John de la Car, my chaplain, a choice hour - To hear from him a matter of some moment; - Whom after under the confession's seal - He solemnly had sworn that what he spoke - My chaplain to no creature living but - To me should utter, with demure confidence - This pausingly ensu'd: "Neither the King nor's heirs, - Tell you the Duke, shall prosper; bid him strive - To gain the love o' th' commonalty; the Duke - Shall govern England."' - QUEEN KATHARINE. If I know you well, - You were the Duke's surveyor, and lost your office - On the complaint o' th' tenants. Take good heed - You charge not in your spleen a noble person - And spoil your nobler soul. I say, take heed; - Yes, heartily beseech you. - KING. Let him on. - Go forward. - SURVEYOR. On my soul, I'll speak but truth. - I told my lord the Duke, by th' devil's illusions - The monk might be deceiv'd, and that 'twas dangerous - for him - To ruminate on this so far, until - It forg'd him some design, which, being believ'd, - It was much like to do. He answer'd 'Tush, - It can do me no damage'; adding further - That, had the King in his last sickness fail'd, - The Cardinal's and Sir Thomas Lovell's heads - Should have gone off. - KING. Ha! what, so rank? Ah ha! - There's mischief in this man. Canst thou say further? - SURVEYOR. I can, my liege. - KING. Proceed. - SURVEYOR. Being at Greenwich, - After your Highness had reprov'd the Duke - About Sir William Bulmer- - KING. I remember - Of such a time: being my sworn servant, - The Duke retain'd him his. But on: what hence? - SURVEYOR. 'If' quoth he 'I for this had been committed- - As to the Tower I thought-I would have play'd - The part my father meant to act upon - Th' usurper Richard; who, being at Salisbury, - Made suit to come in's presence, which if granted, - As he made semblance of his duty, would - Have put his knife into him.' - KING. A giant traitor! - WOLSEY. Now, madam, may his Highness live in freedom, - And this man out of prison? - QUEEN KATHARINE. God mend all! - KING. There's something more would out of thee: what say'st? - SURVEYOR. After 'the Duke his father' with the 'knife,' - He stretch'd him, and, with one hand on his dagger, - Another spread on's breast, mounting his eyes, - He did discharge a horrible oath, whose tenour - Was, were he evil us'd, he would outgo - His father by as much as a performance - Does an irresolute purpose. - KING. There's his period, - To sheath his knife in us. He is attach'd; - Call him to present trial. If he may - Find mercy in the law, 'tis his; if none, - Let him not seek't of us. By day and night! - He's traitor to th' height. Exeunt - -ACT I. SCENE 3. - -London. The palace - -Enter the LORD CHAMBERLAIN and LORD SANDYS - - CHAMBERLAIN. Is't possible the spells of France should juggle - Men into such strange mysteries? - SANDYS. New customs, - Though they be never so ridiculous, - Nay, let 'em be unmanly, yet are follow'd. - CHAMBERLAIN. As far as I see, all the good our English - Have got by the late voyage is but merely - A fit or two o' th' face; but they are shrewd ones; - For when they hold 'em, you would swear directly - Their very noses had been counsellors - To Pepin or Clotharius, they keep state so. - SANDYS. They have all new legs, and lame ones. One would take it, - That never saw 'em pace before, the spavin - Or springhalt reign'd among 'em. - CHAMBERLAIN. Death! my lord, - Their clothes are after such a pagan cut to't, - That sure th' have worn out Christendom. - - Enter SIR THOMAS LOVELL +Contents - How now? - What news, Sir Thomas Lovell? - LOVELL. Faith, my lord, - I hear of none but the new proclamation - That's clapp'd upon the court gate. - CHAMBERLAIN. What is't for? - LOVELL. The reformation of our travell'd gallants, - That fill the court with quarrels, talk, and tailors. - CHAMBERLAIN. I am glad 'tis there. Now I would pray our monsieurs - To think an English courtier may be wise, - And never see the Louvre. - LOVELL. They must either, - For so run the conditions, leave those remnants - Of fool and feather that they got in France, - With all their honourable points of ignorance - Pertaining thereunto-as fights and fireworks; - Abusing better men than they can be, - Out of a foreign wisdom-renouncing clean - The faith they have in tennis, and tall stockings, - Short blist'red breeches, and those types of travel - And understand again like honest men, - Or pack to their old playfellows. There, I take it, - They may, cum privilegio, wear away - The lag end of their lewdness and be laugh'd at. - SANDYS. 'Tis time to give 'em physic, their diseases - Are grown so catching. - CHAMBERLAIN. What a loss our ladies - Will have of these trim vanities! - LOVELL. Ay, marry, - There will be woe indeed, lords: the sly whoresons - Have got a speeding trick to lay down ladies. - A French song and a fiddle has no fellow. - SANDYS. The devil fiddle 'em! I am glad they are going, - For sure there's no converting 'em. Now - An honest country lord, as I am, beaten - A long time out of play, may bring his plainsong - And have an hour of hearing; and, by'r Lady, - Held current music too. - CHAMBERLAIN. Well said, Lord Sandys; - Your colt's tooth is not cast yet. - SANDYS. No, my lord, - Nor shall not while I have a stamp. - CHAMBERLAIN. Sir Thomas, - Whither were you a-going? - LOVELL. To the Cardinal's; - Your lordship is a guest too. - CHAMBERLAIN. O, 'tis true; - This night he makes a supper, and a great one, - To many lords and ladies; there will be - The beauty of this kingdom, I'll assure you. - LOVELL. That churchman bears a bounteous mind indeed, - A hand as fruitful as the land that feeds us; - His dews fall everywhere. - CHAMBERLAIN. No doubt he's noble; - He had a black mouth that said other of him. - SANDYS. He may, my lord; has wherewithal. In him - Sparing would show a worse sin than ill doctrine: - Men of his way should be most liberal, - They are set here for examples. - CHAMBERLAIN. True, they are so; - But few now give so great ones. My barge stays; - Your lordship shall along. Come, good Sir Thomas, - We shall be late else; which I would not be, - For I was spoke to, with Sir Henry Guildford, - This night to be comptrollers. - SANDYS. I am your lordship's. Exeunt - -ACT I. SCENE 4. - -London. The Presence Chamber in York Place + ACT I + Prologue. + Scene I. London. An ante-chamber in the palace + Scene II. The same. The council-chamber + Scene III. An ante-chamber in the palace + Scene IV. A Hall in York Place + + ACT II + Scene I. Westminster. A street + Scene II. An ante-chamber in the palace + Scene III. An ante-chamber of the Queen’s apartments + Scene IV. A hall in Blackfriars + + ACT III + Scene I. London. The Queen’s apartments + Scene II. Ante-chamber to the King’s apartment + + ACT IV + Scene I. A street in Westminster + Scene II. Kimbolton + + ACT V + Scene I. A gallery in the palace + Scene II. Lobby before the council-chamber + Scene III. The palace yard + Scene IV. The palace + Epilogue + + + + +Dramatis Personæ + +KING HENRY THE EIGHTH + +DUKE OF NORFOLK +DUKE OF SUFFOLK + +CARDINAL WOLSEY +SECRETARIES to Wolsey +CROMWELL, servant to Wolsey +CARDINAL CAMPEIUS +GARDINER, Bishop of Winchester +PAGE to Gardiner + +QUEEN KATHERINE, wife to King Henry, afterwards divorced +GRIFFITH, gentleman usher to Queen Katherine +PATIENCE, woman to Queen Katherine +Queen’s GENTLEMAN USHER +CAPUTIUS, Ambassador from the Emperor Charles V + +DUKE OF BUCKINGHAM +LORD ABERGAVENNY, Buckingham’s son-in-law +EARL OF SURREY, Buckingham’s son-in-law +SIR NICHOLAS VAUX +SURVEYOR to the Duke of Buckingham +BRANDON +SERGEANT-at-Arms +Three Gentlemen + +ANNE BULLEN, her Maid of Honour, afterwards Queen +An OLD LADY, friend to Anne Bullen +LORD CHAMBERLAIN +LORD SANDYS (called also SIR WILLIAM SANDYS) +SIR THOMAS LOVELL +SIR HENRY GUILDFORD + +BISHOP OF LINCOLN +CRANMER, archbishop of Canterbury +LORD CHANCELLOR +GARTER King-of-Arms +SIR ANTHONY DENNY +DOCTOR BUTTS, physician to the King +Door-KEEPER of the Council-chamber +PORTER, and his Man +A CRIER +PROLOGUE +EPILOGUE + +Spirits, Several Lords and Ladies in the Dumb Shows; Women attending +upon the Queen; Scribes, Officers, Guards, and other Attendants + +SCENE: London; Westminster; Kimbolton + + + + +Enter Prologue. + + +THE PROLOGUE. +I come no more to make you laugh. Things now +That bear a weighty and a serious brow, +Sad, high, and working, full of state and woe, +Such noble scenes as draw the eye to flow, +We now present. Those that can pity, here +May, if they think it well, let fall a tear; +The subject will deserve it. Such as give +Their money out of hope they may believe +May here find truth too. Those that come to see +Only a show or two, and so agree +The play may pass, if they be still and willing, +I’ll undertake may see away their shilling +Richly in two short hours. Only they +That come to hear a merry bawdy play, +A noise of targets, or to see a fellow +In a long motley coat guarded with yellow, +Will be deceived. For, gentle hearers, know +To rank our chosen truth with such a show +As fool and fight is, beside forfeiting +Our own brains and the opinion that we bring +To make that only true we now intend, +Will leave us never an understanding friend. +Therefore, for goodness’ sake, and as you are known +The first and happiest hearers of the town, +Be sad, as we would make ye. Think ye see +The very persons of our noble story +As they were living; think you see them great, +And followed with the general throng and sweat +Of thousand friends; then, in a moment, see +How soon this mightiness meets misery; +And if you can be merry then, I’ll say +A man may weep upon his wedding day. + +[_Exit._] + + + + +ACT I + +SCENE I. London. An ante-chamber in the palace. + + +Enter the Duke of Norfolk at one door; at the other, the Duke of +Buckingham and the Lord Abergavenny. + +BUCKINGHAM. +Good morrow, and well met. How have ye done +Since last we saw in France? + + +NORFOLK. +I thank your Grace, +Healthful, and ever since a fresh admirer +Of what I saw there. + +BUCKINGHAM. +An untimely ague +Stayed me a prisoner in my chamber when +Those suns of glory, those two lights of men, +Met in the vale of Andren. + +NORFOLK. +’Twixt Guynes and Arde. +I was then present, saw them salute on horseback, +Beheld them when they lighted, how they clung +In their embracement, as they grew together— +Which had they, what four throned ones could have weighed +Such a compounded one? + +BUCKINGHAM. +All the whole time +I was my chamber’s prisoner. + +NORFOLK. +Then you lost +The view of earthly glory. Men might say, +Till this time pomp was single, but now married +To one above itself. Each following day +Became the next day’s master, till the last +Made former wonders its. Today the French, +All clinquant, all in gold, like heathen gods, +Shone down the English; and tomorrow, they +Made Britain India: every man that stood +Showed like a mine. Their dwarfish pages were +As cherubins, all gilt. The madams too, +Not used to toil, did almost sweat to bear +The pride upon them, that their very labour +Was to them as a painting. Now this masque +Was cried incomparable; and th’ ensuing night +Made it a fool and beggar. The two kings, +Equal in lustre, were now best, now worst, +As presence did present them: him in eye, +Still him in praise; and being present both, +’Twas said they saw but one, and no discerner +Durst wag his tongue in censure. When these suns— +For so they phrase ’em—by their heralds challenged +The noble spirits to arms, they did perform +Beyond thought’s compass, that former fabulous story, +Being now seen possible enough, got credit, +That Bevis was believed. + +BUCKINGHAM. +O, you go far. + +NORFOLK. +As I belong to worship and affect +In honour honesty, the tract of everything +Would by a good discourser lose some life, +Which action’s self was tongue to. All was royal; +To the disposing of it nought rebelled; +Order gave each thing view; the office did +Distinctly his full function. + +BUCKINGHAM. +Who did guide, +I mean, who set the body and the limbs +Of this great sport together, as you guess? + +NORFOLK. +One, certes, that promises no element +In such a business. + +BUCKINGHAM. +I pray you who, my lord? + +NORFOLK. +All this was ordered by the good discretion +Of the right reverend Cardinal of York. + +BUCKINGHAM. +The devil speed him! No man’s pie is freed +From his ambitious finger. What had he +To do in these fierce vanities? I wonder +That such a keech can with his very bulk +Take up the rays o’ th’ beneficial sun +And keep it from the earth. + +NORFOLK. +Surely, sir, +There’s in him stuff that puts him to these ends; +For, being not propped by ancestry, whose grace +Chalks successors their way, nor called upon +For high feats done to th’ crown; neither allied +To eminent assistants, but spider-like, +Out of his self-drawing web, he gives us note +The force of his own merit makes his way +A gift that heaven gives for him, which buys +A place next to the King. + +ABERGAVENNY. +I cannot tell +What heaven hath given him—let some graver eye +Pierce into that—but I can see his pride +Peep through each part of him. Whence has he that? +If not from hell, the devil is a niggard, +Or has given all before, and he begins +A new hell in himself. + +BUCKINGHAM. +Why the devil, +Upon this French going-out, took he upon him, +Without the privity o’ th’ King, t’ appoint +Who should attend on him? He makes up the file +Of all the gentry, for the most part such +To whom as great a charge as little honour +He meant to lay upon; and his own letter, +The honourable board of council out, +Must fetch him in he papers. + +ABERGAVENNY. +I do know +Kinsmen of mine, three at the least, that have +By this so sickened their estates that never +They shall abound as formerly. + +BUCKINGHAM. +O, many +Have broke their backs with laying manors on ’em +For this great journey. What did this vanity +But minister communication of +A most poor issue? + +NORFOLK. +Grievingly I think +The peace between the French and us not values +The cost that did conclude it. + +BUCKINGHAM. +Every man, +After the hideous storm that followed, was +A thing inspired and, not consulting, broke +Into a general prophecy, that this tempest, +Dashing the garment of this peace, aboded +The sudden breach on’t. + +NORFOLK. +Which is budded out, +For France hath flawed the league, and hath attached +Our merchants’ goods at Bordeaux. + +ABERGAVENNY. +Is it therefore +Th’ ambassador is silenced? + +NORFOLK. +Marry, is’t. + +ABERGAVENNY. +A proper title of a peace, and purchased +At a superfluous rate! + +BUCKINGHAM. +Why, all this business +Our reverend Cardinal carried. + +NORFOLK. +Like it your Grace, +The state takes notice of the private difference +Betwixt you and the Cardinal. I advise you— +And take it from a heart that wishes towards you +Honour and plenteous safety—that you read +The Cardinal’s malice and his potency +Together; to consider further that +What his high hatred would effect wants not +A minister in his power. You know his nature, +That he’s revengeful, and I know his sword +Hath a sharp edge; it’s long, and ’t may be said +It reaches far, and where ’twill not extend, +Thither he darts it. Bosom up my counsel; +You’ll find it wholesome. Lo, where comes that rock +That I advise your shunning. + +Enter Cardinal Wolsey, the purse borne before him, certain of the Guard +and two Secretaries with papers. The Cardinal in his passage fixeth his +eye on Buckingham, and Buckingham on him, both full of disdain. + +WOLSEY. +The Duke of Buckingham’s surveyor, ha? +Where’s his examination? + +SECRETARY. +Here, so please you. + +WOLSEY. +Is he in person ready? + +SECRETARY. +Ay, please your Grace. + +WOLSEY. +Well, we shall then know more, and Buckingham +Shall lessen this big look. + +[_Exeunt Cardinal Wolsey and his train._] + +BUCKINGHAM. +This butcher’s cur is venom-mouthed, and I +Have not the power to muzzle him; therefore best +Not wake him in his slumber. A beggar’s book +Outworths a noble’s blood. + +NORFOLK. +What, are you chafed? +Ask God for temp’rance. That’s the appliance only +Which your disease requires. + +BUCKINGHAM. +I read in ’s looks +Matter against me, and his eye reviled +Me as his abject object. At this instant +He bores me with some trick. He’s gone to th’ King. +I’ll follow, and outstare him. + +NORFOLK. +Stay, my lord, +And let your reason with your choler question +What ’tis you go about. To climb steep hills +Requires slow pace at first. Anger is like +A full hot horse, who being allowed his way, +Self-mettle tires him. Not a man in England +Can advise me like you; be to yourself +As you would to your friend. + +BUCKINGHAM. +I’ll to the King, +And from a mouth of honour quite cry down +This Ipswich fellow’s insolence, or proclaim +There’s difference in no persons. + +NORFOLK. +Be advised. +Heat not a furnace for your foe so hot +That it do singe yourself. We may outrun +By violent swiftness that which we run at, +And lose by over-running. Know you not, +The fire that mounts the liquor till ’t run o’er, +In seeming to augment it wastes it? Be advised. +I say again, there is no English soul +More stronger to direct you than yourself, +If with the sap of reason you would quench, +Or but allay the fire of passion. + +BUCKINGHAM. +Sir, +I am thankful to you, and I’ll go along +By your prescription; but this top-proud fellow— +Whom from the flow of gall I name not, but +From sincere motions—by intelligence, +And proofs as clear as founts in July when +We see each grain of gravel, I do know +To be corrupt and treasonous. + +NORFOLK. +Say not “treasonous.” + +BUCKINGHAM. +To th’ King I’ll say’t, and make my vouch as strong +As shore of rock. Attend. This holy fox, +Or wolf, or both—for he is equal ravenous +As he is subtle, and as prone to mischief +As able to perform’t, his mind and place +Infecting one another, yea, reciprocally— +Only to show his pomp as well in France +As here at home, suggests the King our master +To this last costly treaty, th’ interview, +That swallowed so much treasure, and like a glass +Did break i’ th’ rinsing. + +NORFOLK. +Faith, and so it did. + +BUCKINGHAM. +Pray give me favour, sir. This cunning Cardinal +The articles o’ th’ combination drew +As himself pleased; and they were ratified +As he cried “Thus let be,” to as much end +As give a crutch to the dead. But our Count-Cardinal +Has done this, and ’tis well, for worthy Wolsey, +Who cannot err, he did it. Now this follows— +Which, as I take it, is a kind of puppy +To the old dam treason—Charles the Emperor, +Under pretence to see the Queen his aunt— +For ’twas indeed his colour, but he came +To whisper Wolsey—here makes visitation. +His fears were that the interview betwixt +England and France might through their amity +Breed him some prejudice, for from this league +Peeped harms that menaced him. He privily +Deals with our Cardinal, and, as I trow— +Which I do well, for I am sure the Emperor +Paid ere he promised, whereby his suit was granted +Ere it was asked. But when the way was made +And paved with gold, the Emperor thus desired +That he would please to alter the King’s course +And break the foresaid peace. Let the King know, +As soon he shall by me, that thus the Cardinal +Does buy and sell his honour as he pleases +And for his own advantage. + +NORFOLK. +I am sorry +To hear this of him, and could wish he were +Something mistaken in’t. + +BUCKINGHAM. +No, not a syllable. +I do pronounce him in that very shape +He shall appear in proof. + +Enter Brandon, a Sergeant-at-arms before him, and two or three of the +Guard. + +BRANDON. +Your office, sergeant: execute it. + +SERGEANT. +Sir, +My lord the Duke of Buckingham, and Earl +Of Hereford, Stafford, and Northampton, I +Arrest thee of high treason, in the name +Of our most sovereign King. + +BUCKINGHAM. +Lo you, my lord, +The net has fall’n upon me. I shall perish +Under device and practice. + +BRANDON. +I am sorry +To see you ta’en from liberty, to look on +The business present. ’Tis his Highness’ pleasure +You shall to th’ Tower. + +BUCKINGHAM. +It will help nothing +To plead mine innocence, for that dye is on me +Which makes my whit’st part black. The will of heaven +Be done in this and all things. I obey. +O my Lord Abergavenny, fare you well. + +BRANDON. +Nay, he must bear you company. +[_To Abergavenny_.] The King +Is pleased you shall to th’ Tower, till you know +How he determines further. + +ABERGAVENNY. +As the Duke said, +The will of heaven be done, and the King’s pleasure +By me obeyed. + +BRANDON. +Here is warrant from +The King t’ attach Lord Montague, and the bodies +Of the Duke’s confessor, John de la Car, +One Gilbert Peck, his chancellor— + +BUCKINGHAM. +So, so; +These are the limbs o’ th’ plot. No more, I hope? + +BRANDON. +A monk o’ th’ Chartreux. + +BUCKINGHAM. +O, Nicholas Hopkins? + +BRANDON. +He. + +BUCKINGHAM. +My surveyor is false. The o’er-great Cardinal +Hath showed him gold. My life is spanned already. +I am the shadow of poor Buckingham, +Whose figure even this instant cloud puts on +By dark’ning my clear sun. My lord, farewell. + +[_Exeunt._] + +SCENE II. The same. The council-chamber. + +Cornets. Enter King Henry, leaning on the Cardinal’s shoulder, the +Nobles, and Sir Thomas Lovell; the Cardinal places himself under the +King’s feet on his right side. + +KING. +My life itself, and the best heart of it, +Thanks you for this great care. I stood i’ th’ level +Of a full-charged confederacy, and give thanks +To you that choked it. Let be called before us +That gentleman of Buckingham’s; in person +I’ll hear his confessions justify, +And point by point the treasons of his master +He shall again relate. + +A noise within crying “Room for the Queen!” Enter Queen Katherine, +ushered by the Duke of Norfolk and the Duke of Suffolk. She kneels. The +King riseth from his state, takes her up and kisses her. + +QUEEN KATHERINE. +Nay, we must longer kneel; I am a suitor. + +KING. +Arise, and take place by us. + +[_He placeth her by him._] + +Half your suit +Never name to us; you have half our power; +The other moiety ere you ask is given. +Repeat your will and take it. + +QUEEN KATHERINE. +Thank your Majesty. +That you would love yourself, and in that love +Not unconsidered leave your honour nor +The dignity of your office, is the point +Of my petition. + +KING. +Lady mine, proceed. + +QUEEN KATHERINE. +I am solicited, not by a few, +And those of true condition, that your subjects +Are in great grievance. There have been commissions +Sent down among ’em which hath flawed the heart +Of all their loyalties; wherein, although, +My good Lord Cardinal, they vent reproaches +Most bitterly on you as putter-on +Of these exactions, yet the King our master, +Whose honour heaven shield from soil, even he escapes not +Language unmannerly, yea, such which breaks +The sides of loyalty, and almost appears +In loud rebellion. + +NORFOLK. +Not “almost appears,” +It doth appear; for, upon these taxations, +The clothiers all, not able to maintain +The many to them longing, have put off +The spinsters, carders, fullers, weavers, who, +Unfit for other life, compelled by hunger +And lack of other means, in desperate manner +Daring the event to th’ teeth, are all in uproar, +And danger serves among them. + +KING. +Taxation? +Wherein? And what taxation? My Lord Cardinal, +You that are blamed for it alike with us, +Know you of this taxation? + +WOLSEY. +Please you, sir, +I know but of a single part in aught +Pertains to th’ state, and front but in that file +Where others tell steps with me. + +QUEEN KATHERINE. +No, my lord? +You know no more than others? But you frame +Things that are known alike, which are not wholesome +To those which would not know them, and yet must +Perforce be their acquaintance. These exactions +Whereof my sovereign would have note, they are +Most pestilent to the hearing, and to bear ’em, +The back is sacrifice to the load. They say +They are devised by you, or else you suffer +Too hard an exclamation. + +KING. +Still exaction! +The nature of it? In what kind, let’s know, +Is this exaction? + +QUEEN KATHERINE. +I am much too venturous +In tempting of your patience, but am boldened +Under your promised pardon. The subjects’ grief +Comes through commissions, which compels from each +The sixth part of his substance, to be levied +Without delay; and the pretence for this +Is named your wars in France. This makes bold mouths. +Tongues spit their duties out, and cold hearts freeze +Allegiance in them. Their curses now +Live where their prayers did; and it’s come to pass +This tractable obedience is a slave +To each incensed will. I would your Highness +Would give it quick consideration, for +There is no primer business. + +KING. +By my life, +This is against our pleasure. + +WOLSEY. +And for me, +I have no further gone in this than by +A single voice, and that not passed me but +By learned approbation of the judges. If I am +Traduced by ignorant tongues, which neither know +My faculties nor person, yet will be +The chronicles of my doing, let me say +’Tis but the fate of place, and the rough brake +That virtue must go through. We must not stint +Our necessary actions in the fear +To cope malicious censurers, which ever, +As ravenous fishes, do a vessel follow +That is new-trimmed, but benefit no further +Than vainly longing. What we oft do best, +By sick interpreters, once weak ones, is +Not ours or not allowed; what worst, as oft, +Hitting a grosser quality, is cried up +For our best act. If we shall stand still +In fear our motion will be mocked or carped at, +We should take root here where we sit, +Or sit state-statues only. + +KING. +Things done well, +And with a care, exempt themselves from fear; +Things done without example, in their issue +Are to be feared. Have you a precedent +Of this commission? I believe, not any. +We must not rend our subjects from our laws +And stick them in our will. Sixth part of each? +A trembling contribution! Why, we take +From every tree lop, bark, and part o’ t’ timber, +And though we leave it with a root, thus hacked, +The air will drink the sap. To every county +Where this is questioned send our letters with +Free pardon to each man that has denied +The force of this commission. Pray, look to’t; +I put it to your care. + +WOLSEY. +[_Aside to his Secretary_.] A word with you. +Let there be letters writ to every shire +Of the King’s grace and pardon. The grieved commons +Hardly conceive of me. Let it be noised +That through our intercession this revokement +And pardon comes. I shall anon advise you +Further in the proceeding. + +[_Exit Secretary._] + +Enter Surveyor. + +QUEEN KATHERINE. +I am sorry that the Duke of Buckingham +Is run in your displeasure. + +KING. +It grieves many. +The gentleman is learned and a most rare speaker; +To nature none more bound; his training such +That he may furnish and instruct great teachers +And never seek for aid out of himself. Yet see, +When these so noble benefits shall prove +Not well disposed, the mind growing once corrupt, +They turn to vicious forms, ten times more ugly +Than ever they were fair. This man so complete, +Who was enrolled ’mongst wonders, and when we, +Almost with ravished list’ning, could not find +His hour of speech a minute—he, my lady, +Hath into monstrous habits put the graces +That once were his, and is become as black +As if besmeared in hell. Sit by us. You shall hear— +This was his gentleman in trust—of him +Things to strike honour sad. Bid him recount +The fore-recited practices, whereof +We cannot feel too little, hear too much. + +WOLSEY. +Stand forth, and with bold spirit relate what you, +Most like a careful subject, have collected +Out of the Duke of Buckingham. + +KING. +Speak freely. + +SURVEYOR. +First, it was usual with him—every day +It would infect his speech—that if the King +Should without issue die, he’ll carry it so +To make the sceptre his. These very words +I’ve heard him utter to his son-in-law, +Lord Abergavenny; to whom by oath he menaced +Revenge upon the Cardinal. + +WOLSEY. +Please your Highness, note +This dangerous conception in this point, +Not friended by his wish to your high person +His will is most malignant, and it stretches +Beyond you to your friends. + +QUEEN KATHERINE. +My learned Lord Cardinal, +Deliver all with charity. + +KING. +Speak on. +How grounded he his title to the crown? +Upon our fail? To this point hast thou heard him +At any time speak aught? + +SURVEYOR. +He was brought to this +By a vain prophecy of Nicholas Henton. + +KING. +What was that Henton? + +SURVEYOR. +Sir, a Chartreux friar, +His confessor, who fed him every minute +With words of sovereignty. + +KING. +How know’st thou this? + +SURVEYOR. +Not long before your Highness sped to France, +The Duke being at the Rose, within the parish +Saint Laurence Poultney, did of me demand +What was the speech among the Londoners +Concerning the French journey. I replied, +Men fear the French would prove perfidious, +To the King’s danger. Presently the Duke +Said ’twas the fear indeed, and that he doubted +’Twould prove the verity of certain words +Spoke by a holy monk, “that oft,” says he, +“Hath sent to me, wishing me to permit +John de la Car, my chaplain, a choice hour +To hear from him a matter of some moment; +Whom after under the confession’s seal +He solemnly had sworn that what he spoke +My chaplain to no creature living but +To me should utter, with demure confidence +This pausingly ensued: ‘Neither the King nor’s heirs, +Tell you the Duke—shall prosper. Bid him strive +To gain the love o’ th’ commonalty. The Duke +Shall govern England.’” + +QUEEN KATHERINE. +If I know you well, +You were the Duke’s surveyor, and lost your office +On the complaint o’ th’ tenants. Take good heed +You charge not in your spleen a noble person +And spoil your nobler soul. I say, take heed— +Yes, heartily beseech you. + +KING. +Let him on. +Go forward. + +SURVEYOR. +On my soul, I’ll speak but truth. +I told my lord the Duke, by th’ devil’s illusions +The monk might be deceived, and that ’twas dangerous +For him to ruminate on this so far until +It forged him some design, which, being believed, +It was much like to do. He answered, “Tush, +It can do me no damage,” adding further +That had the King in his last sickness failed, +The Cardinal’s and Sir Thomas Lovell’s heads +Should have gone off. + +KING. +Ha! What, so rank? Ah ha! +There’s mischief in this man. Canst thou say further? + +SURVEYOR. +I can, my liege. + +KING. +Proceed. + +SURVEYOR. +Being at Greenwich, +After your Highness had reproved the Duke +About Sir William Bulmer— + +KING. +I remember +Of such a time, being my sworn servant, +The Duke retained him his. But on. What hence? + +SURVEYOR. +“If,” quoth he, “I for this had been committed,” +As to the Tower, I thought, “I would have played +The part my father meant to act upon +Th’ usurper Richard who, being at Salisbury, +Made suit to come in ’s presence; which if granted, +As he made semblance of his duty, would +Have put his knife into him.” + +KING. +A giant traitor! + +WOLSEY. +Now, madam, may his Highness live in freedom, +And this man out of prison? + +QUEEN KATHERINE. +God mend all. + +KING. +There’s something more would out of thee. What sayst? + +SURVEYOR. +After “the Duke his father,” with “the knife,” +He stretched him, and with one hand on his dagger, +Another spread on ’s breast, mounting his eyes, +He did discharge a horrible oath, whose tenour +Was, were he evil used, he would outgo +His father by as much as a performance +Does an irresolute purpose. + +KING. +There’s his period, +To sheathe his knife in us. He is attached. +Call him to present trial. If he may +Find mercy in the law, ’tis his; if none, +Let him not seek ’t of us. By day and night, +He’s traitor to th’ height! + +[_Exeunt._] + +SCENE III. An ante-chamber in the palace. + +Enter Lord Chamberlain and Lord Sandys. + +CHAMBERLAIN. +Is’t possible the spells of France should juggle +Men into such strange mysteries? + +SANDYS. +New customs, +Though they be never so ridiculous— +Nay, let ’em be unmanly—yet are followed. + +CHAMBERLAIN. +As far as I see, all the good our English +Have got by the late voyage is but merely +A fit or two o’ th’ face; but they are shrewd ones, +For when they hold ’em, you would swear directly +Their very noses had been counsellors +To Pepin or Clotharius, they keep state so. + +SANDYS. +They have all new legs, and lame ones. One would take it, +That never saw ’em pace before, the spavin +Or springhalt reigned among ’em. + +CHAMBERLAIN. +Death! My lord, +Their clothes are after such a pagan cut to’t, +That, sure, they’ve worn out Christendom. + +Enter Sir Thomas Lovell. + +How now? +What news, Sir Thomas Lovell? + +LOVELL. +Faith, my lord, +I hear of none but the new proclamation +That’s clapped upon the court gate. + +CHAMBERLAIN. +What is’t for? + +LOVELL. +The reformation of our travelled gallants +That fill the court with quarrels, talk, and tailors. + +CHAMBERLAIN. +I’m glad ’tis there. Now I would pray our monsieurs +To think an English courtier may be wise +And never see the Louvre. + +LOVELL. +They must either, +For so run the conditions, leave those remnants +Of fool and feather that they got in France, +With all their honourable points of ignorance +Pertaining thereunto, as fights and fireworks, +Abusing better men than they can be +Out of a foreign wisdom, renouncing clean +The faith they have in tennis and tall stockings, +Short blistered breeches, and those types of travel, +And understand again like honest men, +Or pack to their old playfellows. There, I take it, +They may, _cum privilegio, oui_ away +The lag end of their lewdness and be laughed at. + +SANDYS. +’Tis time to give ’em physic, their diseases +Are grown so catching. + +CHAMBERLAIN. +What a loss our ladies +Will have of these trim vanities! + +LOVELL. +Ay, marry, +There will be woe indeed, lords. The sly whoresons +Have got a speeding trick to lay down ladies. +A French song and a fiddle has no fellow. + +SANDYS. +The devil fiddle ’em! I am glad they are going, +For sure, there’s no converting of ’em. Now +An honest country lord, as I am, beaten +A long time out of play, may bring his plainsong +And have an hour of hearing, and, by ’r Lady, +Held current music too. + +CHAMBERLAIN. +Well said, Lord Sandys. +Your colt’s tooth is not cast yet. + +SANDYS. +No, my lord, +Nor shall not while I have a stump. + +CHAMBERLAIN. +Sir Thomas, +Whither were you a-going? + +LOVELL. +To the Cardinal’s. +Your lordship is a guest too. + +CHAMBERLAIN. +O, ’tis true. +This night he makes a supper, and a great one, +To many lords and ladies. There will be +The beauty of this kingdom, I’ll assure you. + +LOVELL. +That churchman bears a bounteous mind indeed, +A hand as fruitful as the land that feeds us. +His dews fall everywhere. + +CHAMBERLAIN. +No doubt he’s noble; +He had a black mouth that said other of him. + +SANDYS. +He may, my lord; has wherewithal. In him +Sparing would show a worse sin than ill doctrine. +Men of his way should be most liberal; +They are set here for examples. + +CHAMBERLAIN. +True, they are so, +But few now give so great ones. My barge stays. +Your lordship shall along. Come, good Sir Thomas, +We shall be late else, which I would not be, +For I was spoke to, with Sir Henry Guildford, +This night to be comptrollers. + +SANDYS. +I am your lordship’s. + +[_Exeunt._] + +SCENE IV. A Hall in York Place. Hautboys. A small table under a state for the Cardinal, a longer table -for the guests. Then enter ANNE BULLEN, and divers other LADIES and -GENTLEMEN, as guests, at one door; at another door enter SIR HENRY -GUILDFORD - - GUILDFORD. Ladies, a general welcome from his Grace - Salutes ye all; this night he dedicates - To fair content and you. None here, he hopes, - In all this noble bevy, has brought with her - One care abroad; he would have all as merry - As, first, good company, good wine, good welcome, - Can make good people. - - Enter LORD CHAMBERLAIN, LORD SANDYS, and SIR - THOMAS LOVELL - - O, my lord, y'are tardy, - The very thought of this fair company - Clapp'd wings to me. - CHAMBERLAIN. You are young, Sir Harry Guildford. - SANDYS. Sir Thomas Lovell, had the Cardinal - But half my lay thoughts in him, some of these - Should find a running banquet ere they rested - I think would better please 'em. By my life, - They are a sweet society of fair ones. - LOVELL. O that your lordship were but now confessor - To one or two of these! - SANDYS. I would I were; - They should find easy penance. - LOVELL. Faith, how easy? - SANDYS. As easy as a down bed would afford it. - CHAMBERLAIN. Sweet ladies, will it please you sit? Sir Harry, - Place you that side; I'll take the charge of this. - His Grace is ent'ring. Nay, you must not freeze: - Two women plac'd together makes cold weather. - My Lord Sandys, you are one will keep 'em waking: - Pray sit between these ladies. - SANDYS. By my faith, - And thank your lordship. By your leave, sweet ladies. - [Seats himself between ANNE BULLEN and another lady] - If I chance to talk a little wild, forgive me; - I had it from my father. - ANNE. Was he mad, sir? - SANDYS. O, very mad, exceeding mad, in love too. - But he would bite none; just as I do now, - He would kiss you twenty with a breath. [Kisses her] - CHAMBERLAIN. Well said, my lord. - So, now y'are fairly seated. Gentlemen, - The penance lies on you if these fair ladies - Pass away frowning. - SANDYS. For my little cure, - Let me alone. - - Hautboys. Enter CARDINAL WOLSEY, attended; and - takes his state - - WOLSEY. Y'are welcome, my fair guests. That noble lady - Or gentleman that is not freely merry - Is not my friend. This, to confirm my welcome- - And to you all, good health! [Drinks] - SANDYS. Your Grace is noble. - Let me have such a bowl may hold my thanks - And save me so much talking. - WOLSEY. My Lord Sandys, - I am beholding to you. Cheer your neighbours. - Ladies, you are not merry. Gentlemen, - Whose fault is this? - SANDYS. The red wine first must rise - In their fair cheeks, my lord; then we shall have 'em - Talk us to silence. - ANNE. You are a merry gamester, - My Lord Sandys. - SANDYS. Yes, if I make my play. - Here's to your ladyship; and pledge it, madam, - For 'tis to such a thing- - ANNE. You cannot show me. - SANDYS. I told your Grace they would talk anon. - [Drum and trumpet. Chambers discharg'd] - WOLSEY. What's that? - CHAMBERLAIN. Look out there, some of ye. Exit a SERVANT - WOLSEY. What warlike voice, - And to what end, is this? Nay, ladies, fear not: - By all the laws of war y'are privileg'd. - - Re-enter SERVANT - - CHAMBERLAIN. How now! what is't? - SERVANT. A noble troop of strangers- - For so they seem. Th' have left their barge and landed, - And hither make, as great ambassadors - From foreign princes. - WOLSEY. Good Lord Chamberlain, - Go, give 'em welcome; you can speak the French tongue; - And pray receive 'em nobly and conduct 'em - Into our presence, where this heaven of beauty - Shall shine at full upon them. Some attend him. - Exit CHAMBERLAIN attended. All rise, and tables remov'd - You have now a broken banquet, but we'll mend it. - A good digestion to you all; and once more - I show'r a welcome on ye; welcome all. - - Hautboys. Enter the KING, and others, as maskers, - habited like shepherds, usher'd by the LORD CHAMBERLAIN. - They pass directly before the CARDINAL, - and gracefully salute him - - A noble company! What are their pleasures? - CHAMBERLAIN. Because they speak no English, thus they pray'd - To tell your Grace, that, having heard by fame - Of this so noble and so fair assembly - This night to meet here, they could do no less, - Out of the great respect they bear to beauty, - But leave their flocks and, under your fair conduct, - Crave leave to view these ladies and entreat - An hour of revels with 'em. - WOLSEY. Say, Lord Chamberlain, - They have done my poor house grace; for which I pay 'em - A thousand thanks, and pray 'em take their pleasures. - [They choose ladies. The KING chooses ANNE BULLEN] - KING. The fairest hand I ever touch'd! O beauty, - Till now I never knew thee! [Music. Dance] - WOLSEY. My lord! - CHAMBERLAIN. Your Grace? - WOLSEY. Pray tell 'em thus much from me: - There should be one amongst 'em, by his person, - More worthy this place than myself; to whom, - If I but knew him, with my love and duty - I would surrender it. - CHAMBERLAIN. I will, my lord. - [He whispers to the maskers] - WOLSEY. What say they? - CHAMBERLAIN. Such a one, they all confess, - There is indeed; which they would have your Grace - Find out, and he will take it. - WOLSEY. Let me see, then. [Comes from his state] - By all your good leaves, gentlemen, here I'll make - My royal choice. - KING. [Unmasking] Ye have found him, Cardinal. - You hold a fair assembly; you do well, lord. - You are a churchman, or, I'll tell you, Cardinal, - I should judge now unhappily. - WOLSEY. I am glad - Your Grace is grown so pleasant. - KING. My Lord Chamberlain, - Prithee come hither: what fair lady's that? - CHAMBERLAIN. An't please your Grace, Sir Thomas Bullen's - daughter- - The Viscount Rochford-one of her Highness' women. - KING. By heaven, she is a dainty one. Sweet heart, - I were unmannerly to take you out - And not to kiss you. A health, gentlemen! - Let it go round. - WOLSEY. Sir Thomas Lovell, is the banquet ready - I' th' privy chamber? - LOVELL. Yes, my lord. - WOLSEY. Your Grace, - I fear, with dancing is a little heated. - KING. I fear, too much. - WOLSEY. There's fresher air, my lord, - In the next chamber. - KING. Lead in your ladies, ev'ry one. Sweet partner, - I must not yet forsake you. Let's be merry: - Good my Lord Cardinal, I have half a dozen healths - To drink to these fair ladies, and a measure - To lead 'em once again; and then let's dream - Who's best in favour. Let the music knock it. - Exeunt, with trumpets +for the guests. Then enter Anne Bullen and divers other Ladies and +Gentlemen as guests, at one door. At another door enter Sir Henry +Guildford. -ACT II. SCENE 1. +GUILDFORD. +Ladies, a general welcome from his Grace +Salutes ye all. This night he dedicates +To fair content and you. None here, he hopes, +In all this noble bevy has brought with her +One care abroad. He would have all as merry +As, first, good company, good wine, good welcome +Can make good people. -Westminster. A street - -Enter two GENTLEMEN, at several doors - - FIRST GENTLEMAN. Whither away so fast? - SECOND GENTLEMAN. O, God save ye! - Ev'n to the Hall, to hear what shall become - Of the great Duke of Buckingham. - FIRST GENTLEMAN. I'll save you - That labour, sir. All's now done but the ceremony - Of bringing back the prisoner. - SECOND GENTLEMAN. Were you there? - FIRST GENTLEMAN. Yes, indeed, was I. - SECOND GENTLEMAN. Pray, speak what has happen'd. - FIRST GENTLEMAN. You may guess quickly what. - SECOND GENTLEMAN. Is he found guilty? - FIRST GENTLEMAN. Yes, truly is he, and condemn'd upon't. - SECOND GENTLEMAN. I am sorry for't. - FIRST GENTLEMAN. So are a number more. - SECOND GENTLEMAN. But, pray, how pass'd it? - FIRST GENTLEMAN. I'll tell you in a little. The great Duke. - Came to the bar; where to his accusations - He pleaded still not guilty, and alleged - Many sharp reasons to defeat the law. - The King's attorney, on the contrary, - Urg'd on the examinations, proofs, confessions, - Of divers witnesses; which the Duke desir'd - To have brought, viva voce, to his face; - At which appear'd against him his surveyor, - Sir Gilbert Peck his chancellor, and John Car, - Confessor to him, with that devil-monk, - Hopkins, that made this mischief. - SECOND GENTLEMAN. That was he - That fed him with his prophecies? - FIRST GENTLEMAN. The same. - All these accus'd him strongly, which he fain - Would have flung from him; but indeed he could not; - And so his peers, upon this evidence, - Have found him guilty of high treason. Much - He spoke, and learnedly, for life; but all - Was either pitied in him or forgotten. - SECOND GENTLEMAN. After all this, how did he bear him-self - FIRST GENTLEMAN. When he was brought again to th' bar to hear - His knell rung out, his judgment, he was stirr'd - With such an agony he sweat extremely, - And something spoke in choler, ill and hasty; - But he fell to himself again, and sweetly - In all the rest show'd a most noble patience. - SECOND GENTLEMAN. I do not think he fears death. - FIRST GENTLEMAN. Sure, he does not; - He never was so womanish; the cause - He may a little grieve at. - SECOND GENTLEMAN. Certainly - The Cardinal is the end of this. - FIRST GENTLEMAN. 'Tis likely, - By all conjectures: first, Kildare's attainder, - Then deputy of Ireland, who remov'd, - Earl Surrey was sent thither, and in haste too, - Lest he should help his father. - SECOND GENTLEMAN. That trick of state - Was a deep envious one. - FIRST GENTLEMAN. At his return - No doubt he will requite it. This is noted, - And generally: whoever the King favours - The Cardinal instantly will find employment, - And far enough from court too. - SECOND GENTLEMAN. All the commons - Hate him perniciously, and, o' my conscience, - Wish him ten fathom deep: this Duke as much - They love and dote on; call him bounteous Buckingham, - The mirror of all courtesy- - - Enter BUCKINGHAM from his arraignment, tip-staves - before him; the axe with the edge towards him; halberds - on each side; accompanied with SIR THOMAS - LOVELL, SIR NICHOLAS VAUX, SIR WILLIAM SANDYS, - and common people, etc. - - FIRST GENTLEMAN. Stay there, sir, - And see the noble ruin'd man you speak of. - SECOND GENTLEMAN. Let's stand close, and behold him. - BUCKINGHAM. All good people, - You that thus far have come to pity me, - Hear what I say, and then go home and lose me. - I have this day receiv'd a traitor's judgment, - And by that name must die; yet, heaven bear witness, - And if I have a conscience, let it sink me - Even as the axe falls, if I be not faithful! - The law I bear no malice for my death: - 'T has done, upon the premises, but justice. - But those that sought it I could wish more Christians. - Be what they will, I heartily forgive 'em; - Yet let 'em look they glory not in mischief - Nor build their evils on the graves of great men, - For then my guiltless blood must cry against 'em. - For further life in this world I ne'er hope - Nor will I sue, although the King have mercies - More than I dare make faults. You few that lov'd me - And dare be bold to weep for Buckingham, - His noble friends and fellows, whom to leave - Is only bitter to him, only dying, - Go with me like good angels to my end; - And as the long divorce of steel falls on me - Make of your prayers one sweet sacrifice, - And lift my soul to heaven. Lead on, a God's name. - LOVELL. I do beseech your Grace, for charity, - If ever any malice in your heart - Were hid against me, now to forgive me frankly. - BUCKINGHAM. Sir Thomas Lovell, I as free forgive you - As I would be forgiven. I forgive all. - There cannot be those numberless offences - 'Gainst me that I cannot take peace with. No black envy - Shall mark my grave. Commend me to his Grace; - And if he speak of Buckingham, pray tell him - You met him half in heaven. My vows and prayers - Yet are the King's, and, till my soul forsake, - Shall cry for blessings on him. May he live - Longer than I have time to tell his years; - Ever belov'd and loving may his rule be; - And when old time Shall lead him to his end, - Goodness and he fill up one monument! - LOVELL. To th' water side I must conduct your Grace; - Then give my charge up to Sir Nicholas Vaux, - Who undertakes you to your end. - VAUX. Prepare there; - The Duke is coming; see the barge be ready; - And fit it with such furniture as suits - The greatness of his person. - BUCKINGHAM. Nay, Sir Nicholas, - Let it alone; my state now will but mock me. - When I came hither I was Lord High Constable - And Duke of Buckingham; now, poor Edward Bohun. - Yet I am richer than my base accusers - That never knew what truth meant; I now seal it; - And with that blood will make 'em one day groan fort. - My noble father, Henry of Buckingham, - Who first rais'd head against usurping Richard, - Flying for succour to his servant Banister, - Being distress'd, was by that wretch betray'd - And without trial fell; God's peace be with him! - Henry the Seventh succeeding, truly pitying - My father's loss, like a most royal prince, - Restor'd me to my honours, and out of ruins - Made my name once more noble. Now his son, - Henry the Eighth, life, honour, name, and all - That made me happy, at one stroke has taken - For ever from the world. I had my trial, - And must needs say a noble one; which makes me - A little happier than my wretched father; - Yet thus far we are one in fortunes: both - Fell by our servants, by those men we lov'd most- - A most unnatural and faithless service. - Heaven has an end in all. Yet, you that hear me, - This from a dying man receive as certain: - Where you are liberal of your loves and counsels, - Be sure you be not loose; for those you make friends - And give your hearts to, when they once perceive - The least rub in your fortunes, fall away - Like water from ye, never found again - But where they mean to sink ye. All good people, - Pray for me! I must now forsake ye; the last hour - Of my long weary life is come upon me. - Farewell; - And when you would say something that is sad, - Speak how I fell. I have done; and God forgive me! - Exeunt BUCKINGHAM and train - FIRST GENTLEMAN. O, this is full of pity! Sir, it calls, - I fear, too many curses on their heads - That were the authors. - SECOND GENTLEMAN. If the Duke be guiltless, - 'Tis full of woe; yet I can give you inkling - Of an ensuing evil, if it fall, - Greater than this. - FIRST GENTLEMAN. Good angels keep it from us! - What may it be? You do not doubt my faith, sir? - SECOND GENTLEMAN. This secret is so weighty, 'twill require - A strong faith to conceal it. - FIRST GENTLEMAN. Let me have it; - I do not talk much. - SECOND GENTLEMAN. I am confident. - You shall, sir. Did you not of late days hear - A buzzing of a separation - Between the King and Katharine? - FIRST GENTLEMAN. Yes, but it held not; - For when the King once heard it, out of anger - He sent command to the Lord Mayor straight - To stop the rumour and allay those tongues - That durst disperse it. - SECOND GENTLEMAN. But that slander, sir, - Is found a truth now; for it grows again - Fresher than e'er it was, and held for certain - The King will venture at it. Either the Cardinal - Or some about him near have, out of malice - To the good Queen, possess'd him with a scruple - That will undo her. To confirm this too, - Cardinal Campeius is arriv'd and lately; - As all think, for this business. - FIRST GENTLEMAN. 'Tis the Cardinal; - And merely to revenge him on the Emperor - For not bestowing on him at his asking - The archbishopric of Toledo, this is purpos'd. - SECOND GENTLEMAN. I think you have hit the mark; but is't - not cruel - That she should feel the smart of this? The Cardinal - Will have his will, and she must fall. - FIRST GENTLEMAN. 'Tis woeful. - We are too open here to argue this; - Let's think in private more. Exeunt - -ACT II. SCENE 2. - -London. The palace - -Enter the LORD CHAMBERLAIN reading this letter - - CHAMBERLAIN. 'My lord, - 'The horses your lordship sent for, with all the care - had, I saw well chosen, ridden, and furnish'd. They were - young and handsome, and of the best breed in the north. - When they were ready to set out for London, a man of - my Lord Cardinal's, by commission, and main power, took - 'em from me, with this reason: his master would be serv'd - before a subject, if not before the King; which stopp'd - our mouths, sir.' - - I fear he will indeed. Well, let him have them. - He will have all, I think. - - Enter to the LORD CHAMBERLAIN the DUKES OF NORFOLK and SUFFOLK - - NORFOLK. Well met, my Lord Chamberlain. - CHAMBERLAIN. Good day to both your Graces. - SUFFOLK. How is the King employ'd? - CHAMBERLAIN. I left him private, - Full of sad thoughts and troubles. - NORFOLK. What's the cause? - CHAMBERLAIN. It seems the marriage with his brother's wife - Has crept too near his conscience. - SUFFOLK. No, his conscience - Has crept too near another lady. - NORFOLK. 'Tis so; - This is the Cardinal's doing; the King-Cardinal, - That blind priest, like the eldest son of fortune, - Turns what he list. The King will know him one day. - SUFFOLK. Pray God he do! He'll never know himself else. - NORFOLK. How holily he works in all his business! - And with what zeal! For, now he has crack'd the league - Between us and the Emperor, the Queen's great nephew, - He dives into the King's soul and there scatters - Dangers, doubts, wringing of the conscience, - Fears, and despairs-and all these for his marriage; - And out of all these to restore the King, - He counsels a divorce, a loss of her - That like a jewel has hung twenty years - About his neck, yet never lost her lustre; - Of her that loves him with that excellence - That angels love good men with; even of her - That, when the greatest stroke of fortune falls, - Will bless the King-and is not this course pious? - CHAMBERLAIN. Heaven keep me from such counsel! 'Tis most true - These news are everywhere; every tongue speaks 'em, - And every true heart weeps for 't. All that dare - Look into these affairs see this main end- - The French King's sister. Heaven will one day open - The King's eyes, that so long have slept upon - This bold bad man. - SUFFOLK. And free us from his slavery. - NORFOLK. We had need pray, and heartily, for our deliverance; - Or this imperious man will work us an - From princes into pages. All men's honours - Lie like one lump before him, to be fashion'd - Into what pitch he please. - SUFFOLK. For me, my lords, - I love him not, nor fear him-there's my creed; - As I am made without him, so I'll stand, - If the King please; his curses and his blessings - Touch me alike; th' are breath I not believe in. - I knew him, and I know him; so I leave him - To him that made him proud-the Pope. - NORFOLK. Let's in; - And with some other business put the King - From these sad thoughts that work too much upon him. - My lord, you'll bear us company? - CHAMBERLAIN. Excuse me, - The King has sent me otherwhere; besides, - You'll find a most unfit time to disturb him. - Health to your lordships! - NORFOLK. Thanks, my good Lord Chamberlain. - Exit LORD CHAMBERLAIN; and the KING draws - the curtain and sits reading pensively - SUFFOLK. How sad he looks; sure, he is much afflicted. - KING. Who's there, ha? - NORFOLK. Pray God he be not angry. - KING HENRY. Who's there, I say? How dare you thrust yourselves - Into my private meditations? - Who am I, ha? - NORFOLK. A gracious king that pardons all offences - Malice ne'er meant. Our breach of duty this way - Is business of estate, in which we come - To know your royal pleasure. - KING. Ye are too bold. - Go to; I'll make ye know your times of business. - Is this an hour for temporal affairs, ha? - - Enter WOLSEY and CAMPEIUS with a commission - - Who's there? My good Lord Cardinal? O my Wolsey, - The quiet of my wounded conscience, - Thou art a cure fit for a King. [To CAMPEIUS] You're - welcome, - Most learned reverend sir, into our kingdom. - Use us and it. [To WOLSEY] My good lord, have great care - I be not found a talker. - WOLSEY. Sir, you cannot. - I would your Grace would give us but an hour - Of private conference. - KING. [To NORFOLK and SUFFOLK] We are busy; go. - NORFOLK. [Aside to SUFFOLK] This priest has no pride in him! - SUFFOLK. [Aside to NORFOLK] Not to speak of! - I would not be so sick though for his place. - But this cannot continue. - NORFOLK. [Aside to SUFFOLK] If it do, - I'll venture one have-at-him. - SUFFOLK. [Aside to NORFOLK] I another. - Exeunt NORFOLK and SUFFOLK - WOLSEY. Your Grace has given a precedent of wisdom - Above all princes, in committing freely - Your scruple to the voice of Christendom. - Who can be angry now? What envy reach you? - The Spaniard, tied by blood and favour to her, - Must now confess, if they have any goodness, - The trial just and noble. All the clerks, - I mean the learned ones, in Christian kingdoms - Have their free voices. Rome the nurse of judgment, - Invited by your noble self, hath sent - One general tongue unto us, this good man, - This just and learned priest, Cardinal Campeius, - Whom once more I present unto your Highness. - KING. And once more in mine arms I bid him welcome, - And thank the holy conclave for their loves. - They have sent me such a man I would have wish'd for. - CAMPEIUS. Your Grace must needs deserve an strangers' loves, - You are so noble. To your Highness' hand - I tender my commission; by whose virtue- - The court of Rome commanding-you, my Lord - Cardinal of York, are join'd with me their servant - In the unpartial judging of this business. - KING. Two equal men. The Queen shall be acquainted - Forthwith for what you come. Where's Gardiner? - WOLSEY. I know your Majesty has always lov'd her - So dear in heart not to deny her that - A woman of less place might ask by law- - Scholars allow'd freely to argue for her. - KING. Ay, and the best she shall have; and my favour - To him that does best. God forbid else. Cardinal, - Prithee call Gardiner to me, my new secretary; - I find him a fit fellow. Exit WOLSEY - - Re-enter WOLSEY with GARDINER - - WOLSEY. [Aside to GARDINER] Give me your hand: much - joy and favour to you; - You are the King's now. - GARDINER. [Aside to WOLSEY] But to be commanded - For ever by your Grace, whose hand has rais'd me. - KING. Come hither, Gardiner. [Walks and whispers] - CAMPEIUS. My Lord of York, was not one Doctor Pace - In this man's place before him? - WOLSEY. Yes, he was. - CAMPEIUS. Was he not held a learned man? - WOLSEY. Yes, surely. - CAMPEIUS. Believe me, there's an ill opinion spread then, - Even of yourself, Lord Cardinal. - WOLSEY. How! Of me? - CAMPEIUS. They will not stick to say you envied him - And, fearing he would rise, he was so virtuous, - Kept him a foreign man still; which so griev'd him - That he ran mad and died. - WOLSEY. Heav'n's peace be with him! - That's Christian care enough. For living murmurers - There's places of rebuke. He was a fool, - For he would needs be virtuous: that good fellow, - If I command him, follows my appointment. - I will have none so near else. Learn this, brother, - We live not to be grip'd by meaner persons. - KING. Deliver this with modesty to th' Queen. - Exit GARDINER - The most convenient place that I can think of - For such receipt of learning is Blackfriars; - There ye shall meet about this weighty business- - My Wolsey, see it furnish'd. O, my lord, - Would it not grieve an able man to leave - So sweet a bedfellow? But, conscience, conscience! - O, 'tis a tender place! and I must leave her. Exeunt - -ACT II. SCENE 3. - -London. The palace - -Enter ANNE BULLEN and an OLD LADY - - ANNE. Not for that neither. Here's the pang that pinches: - His Highness having liv'd so long with her, and she - So good a lady that no tongue could ever - Pronounce dishonour of her-by my life, - She never knew harm-doing-O, now, after - So many courses of the sun enthroned, - Still growing in a majesty and pomp, the which - To leave a thousand-fold more bitter than - 'Tis sweet at first t' acquire-after this process, - To give her the avaunt, it is a pity - Would move a monster. - OLD LADY. Hearts of most hard temper - Melt and lament for her. - ANNE. O, God's will! much better - She ne'er had known pomp; though't be temporal, - Yet, if that quarrel, fortune, do divorce - It from the bearer, 'tis a sufferance panging - As soul and body's severing. - OLD LADY. Alas, poor lady! - She's a stranger now again. - ANNE. So much the more - Must pity drop upon her. Verily, - I swear 'tis better to be lowly born - And range with humble livers in content - Than to be perk'd up in a glist'ring grief - And wear a golden sorrow. - OLD LADY. Our content - Is our best having. - ANNE. By my troth and maidenhead, - I would not be a queen. - OLD LADY. Beshrew me, I would, - And venture maidenhead for 't; and so would you, - For all this spice of your hypocrisy. - You that have so fair parts of woman on you - Have too a woman's heart, which ever yet - Affected eminence, wealth, sovereignty; - Which, to say sooth, are blessings; and which gifts, - Saving your mincing, the capacity - Of your soft cheveril conscience would receive - If you might please to stretch it. - ANNE. Nay, good troth. - OLD LADY. Yes, troth and troth. You would not be a queen! - ANNE. No, not for all the riches under heaven. - OLD LADY. 'Tis strange: a threepence bow'd would hire me, - Old as I am, to queen it. But, I pray you, - What think you of a duchess? Have you limbs - To bear that load of title? - ANNE. No, in truth. - OLD LADY. Then you are weakly made. Pluck off a little; - I would not be a young count in your way - For more than blushing comes to. If your back - Cannot vouchsafe this burden, 'tis too weak - Ever to get a boy. - ANNE. How you do talk! - I swear again I would not be a queen - For all the world. - OLD LADY. In faith, for little England - You'd venture an emballing. I myself - Would for Carnarvonshire, although there long'd - No more to th' crown but that. Lo, who comes here? - - Enter the LORD CHAMBERLAIN - - CHAMBERLAIN. Good morrow, ladies. What were't worth to know - The secret of your conference? - ANNE. My good lord, - Not your demand; it values not your asking. - Our mistress' sorrows we were pitying. - CHAMBERLAIN. It was a gentle business and becoming - The action of good women; there is hope - All will be well. - ANNE. Now, I pray God, amen! - CHAMBERLAIN. You bear a gentle mind, and heav'nly blessings - Follow such creatures. That you may, fair lady, - Perceive I speak sincerely and high notes - Ta'en of your many virtues, the King's Majesty - Commends his good opinion of you to you, and - Does purpose honour to you no less flowing - Than Marchioness of Pembroke; to which tide - A thousand pound a year, annual support, - Out of his grace he adds. - ANNE. I do not know - What kind of my obedience I should tender; - More than my all is nothing, nor my prayers - Are not words duly hallowed, nor my wishes - More worth than empty vanities; yet prayers and wishes - Are all I can return. Beseech your lordship, - Vouchsafe to speak my thanks and my obedience, - As from a blushing handmaid, to his Highness; - Whose health and royalty I pray for. - CHAMBERLAIN. Lady, - I shall not fail t' approve the fair conceit - The King hath of you. [Aside] I have perus'd her well: - Beauty and honour in her are so mingled - That they have caught the King; and who knows yet - But from this lady may proceed a gem - To lighten all this isle?-I'll to the King - And say I spoke with you. - ANNE. My honour'd lord! Exit LORD CHAMBERLAIN - OLD LADY. Why, this it is: see, see! - I have been begging sixteen years in court- - Am yet a courtier beggarly-nor could - Come pat betwixt too early and too late - For any suit of pounds; and you, O fate! - A very fresh-fish here-fie, fie, fie upon - This compell'd fortune!-have your mouth fill'd up - Before you open it. - ANNE. This is strange to me. - OLD LADY. How tastes it? Is it bitter? Forty pence, no. - There was a lady once-'tis an old story- - That would not be a queen, that would she not, - For all the mud in Egypt. Have you heard it? - ANNE. Come, you are pleasant. - OLD LADY. With your theme I could - O'ermount the lark. The Marchioness of Pembroke! - A thousand pounds a year for pure respect! - No other obligation! By my life, - That promises moe thousands: honour's train - Is longer than his foreskirt. By this time - I know your back will bear a duchess. Say, - Are you not stronger than you were? - ANNE. Good lady, - Make yourself mirth with your particular fancy, - And leave me out on't. Would I had no being, - If this salute my blood a jot; it faints me - To think what follows. - The Queen is comfortless, and we forgetful - In our long absence. Pray, do not deliver - What here y' have heard to her. - OLD LADY. What do you think me? Exeunt - -ACT II. SCENE 4. - -London. A hall in Blackfriars - -Trumpets, sennet, and cornets. Enter two VERGERS, with short silver -wands; next them, two SCRIBES, in the habit of doctors; after them, the -ARCHBISHOP OF CANTERBURY alone; after him, the BISHOPS OF LINCOLN, ELY, -ROCHESTER, and SAINT ASAPH; next them, with some small distance, -follows a GENTLEMAN bearing the purse, with the great seal, and a -Cardinal's hat; then two PRIESTS, bearing each silver cross; then a -GENTLEMAN USHER bareheaded, accompanied with a SERGEANT-AT-ARMS bearing -a silver mace; then two GENTLEMEN bearing two great silver pillars; -after them, side by side, the two CARDINALS, WOLSEY and CAMPEIUS; two -NOBLEMEN with the sword and mace. Then enter the KING and QUEEN and -their trains. The KING takes place under the cloth of state; the two -CARDINALS sit under him as judges. The QUEEN takes place some distance -from the KING. The BISHOPS place themselves on each side of the court, -in manner of consistory; below them the SCRIBES. The LORDS sit next the -BISHOPS. The rest of the attendants stand in convenient order about the -stage - - WOLSEY. Whilst our commission from Rome is read, - Let silence be commanded. - KING. What's the need? - It hath already publicly been read, - And on all sides th' authority allow'd; - You may then spare that time. - WOLSEY. Be't so; proceed. - SCRIBE. Say 'Henry King of England, come into the court.' - CRIER. Henry King of England, &c. - KING. Here. - SCRIBE. Say 'Katharine Queen of England, come into the court.' - CRIER. Katharine Queen of England, &c. - - The QUEEN makes no answer, rises out of her chair, - goes about the court, comes to the KING, and kneels - at his feet; then speaks - - QUEEN KATHARINE. Sir, I desire you do me right and justice, - And to bestow your pity on me; for - I am a most poor woman and a stranger, - Born out of your dominions, having here - No judge indifferent, nor no more assurance - Of equal friendship and proceeding. Alas, sir, - In what have I offended you? What cause - Hath my behaviour given to your displeasure - That thus you should proceed to put me of - And take your good grace from me? Heaven witness, - I have been to you a true and humble wife, - At all times to your will conformable, - Ever in fear to kindle your dislike, - Yea, subject to your countenance-glad or sorry - As I saw it inclin'd. When was the hour - I ever contradicted your desire - Or made it not mine too? Or which of your friends - Have I not strove to love, although I knew - He were mine enemy? What friend of mine - That had to him deriv'd your anger did - Continue in my liking? Nay, gave notice - He was from thence discharg'd? Sir, call to mind - That I have been your wife in this obedience - Upward of twenty years, and have been blest - With many children by you. If, in the course - And process of this time, you can report, - And prove it too against mine honour, aught, - My bond to wedlock or my love and duty, - Against your sacred person, in God's name, - Turn me away and let the foul'st contempt - Shut door upon me, and so give me up - To the sharp'st kind of justice. Please you, sir, - The King, your father, was reputed for - A prince most prudent, of an excellent - And unmatch'd wit and judgment; Ferdinand, - My father, King of Spain, was reckon'd one - The wisest prince that there had reign'd by many - A year before. It is not to be question'd - That they had gather'd a wise council to them - Of every realm, that did debate this business, - Who deem'd our marriage lawful. Wherefore I humbly - Beseech you, sir, to spare me till I may - Be by my friends in Spain advis'd, whose counsel - I will implore. If not, i' th' name of God, - Your pleasure be fulfill'd! - WOLSEY. You have here, lady, - And of your choice, these reverend fathers-men - Of singular integrity and learning, - Yea, the elect o' th' land, who are assembled - To plead your cause. It shall be therefore bootless - That longer you desire the court, as well - For your own quiet as to rectify - What is unsettled in the King. - CAMPEIUS. His Grace - Hath spoken well and justly; therefore, madam, - It's fit this royal session do proceed - And that, without delay, their arguments - Be now produc'd and heard. - QUEEN KATHARINE. Lord Cardinal, - To you I speak. - WOLSEY. Your pleasure, madam? - QUEEN KATHARINE. Sir, - I am about to weep; but, thinking that - We are a queen, or long have dream'd so, certain - The daughter of a king, my drops of tears - I'll turn to sparks of fire. - WOLSEY. Be patient yet. - QUEEN KATHARINE. I Will, when you are humble; nay, before - Or God will punish me. I do believe, - Induc'd by potent circumstances, that - You are mine enemy, and make my challenge - You shall not be my judge; for it is you - Have blown this coal betwixt my lord and me- - Which God's dew quench! Therefore I say again, - I utterly abhor, yea, from my soul - Refuse you for my judge, whom yet once more - I hold my most malicious foe and think not - At all a friend to truth. - WOLSEY. I do profess - You speak not like yourself, who ever yet - Have stood to charity and display'd th' effects - Of disposition gentle and of wisdom - O'ertopping woman's pow'r. Madam, you do me wrong: - I have no spleen against you, nor injustice - For you or any; how far I have proceeded, - Or how far further shall, is warranted - By a commission from the Consistory, - Yea, the whole Consistory of Rome. You charge me - That I have blown this coal: I do deny it. - The King is present; if it be known to him - That I gainsay my deed, how may he wound, - And worthily, my falsehood! Yea, as much - As you have done my truth. If he know - That I am free of your report, he knows - I am not of your wrong. Therefore in him - It lies to cure me, and the cure is to - Remove these thoughts from you; the which before - His Highness shall speak in, I do beseech - You, gracious madam, to unthink your speaking - And to say so no more. - QUEEN KATHARINE. My lord, my lord, - I am a simple woman, much too weak - T' oppose your cunning. Y'are meek and humble-mouth'd; - You sign your place and calling, in full seeming, - With meekness and humility; but your heart - Is cramm'd with arrogancy, spleen, and pride. - You have, by fortune and his Highness' favours, - Gone slightly o'er low steps, and now are mounted - Where pow'rs are your retainers, and your words, - Domestics to you, serve your will as't please - Yourself pronounce their office. I must tell you - You tender more your person's honour than - Your high profession spiritual; that again - I do refuse you for my judge and here, - Before you all, appeal unto the Pope, - To bring my whole cause 'fore his Holiness - And to be judg'd by him. - [She curtsies to the KING, and offers to depart] - CAMPEIUS. The Queen is obstinate, - Stubborn to justice, apt to accuse it, and - Disdainful to be tried by't; 'tis not well. - She's going away. - KING. Call her again. - CRIER. Katharine Queen of England, come into the court. - GENTLEMAN USHER. Madam, you are call'd back. - QUEEN KATHARINE. What need you note it? Pray you keep your way; - When you are call'd, return. Now the Lord help! - They vex me past my patience. Pray you pass on. - I will not tarry; no, nor ever more - Upon this business my appearance make - In any of their courts. Exeunt QUEEN and her attendants - KING. Go thy ways, Kate. - That man i' th' world who shall report he has - A better wife, let him in nought be trusted - For speaking false in that. Thou art, alone- - If thy rare qualities, sweet gentleness, - Thy meekness saint-like, wife-like government, - Obeying in commanding, and thy parts - Sovereign and pious else, could speak thee out- - The queen of earthly queens. She's noble born; - And like her true nobility she has - Carried herself towards me. - WOLSEY. Most gracious sir, - In humblest manner I require your Highness - That it shall please you to declare in hearing - Of all these ears-for where I am robb'd and bound, - There must I be unloos'd, although not there - At once and fully satisfied-whether ever I - Did broach this business to your Highness, or - Laid any scruple in your way which might - Induce you to the question on't, or ever - Have to you, but with thanks to God for such - A royal lady, spake one the least word that might - Be to the prejudice of her present state, - Or touch of her good person? - KING. My Lord Cardinal, - I do excuse you; yea, upon mine honour, - I free you from't. You are not to be taught - That you have many enemies that know not - Why they are so, but, like to village curs, - Bark when their fellows do. By some of these - The Queen is put in anger. Y'are excus'd. - But will you be more justified? You ever - Have wish'd the sleeping of this business; never desir'd - It to be stirr'd; but oft have hind'red, oft, - The passages made toward it. On my honour, - I speak my good Lord Cardinal to this point, - And thus far clear him. Now, what mov'd me to't, - I will be bold with time and your attention. - Then mark th' inducement. Thus it came-give heed to't: - My conscience first receiv'd a tenderness, - Scruple, and prick, on certain speeches utter'd - By th' Bishop of Bayonne, then French ambassador, - Who had been hither sent on the debating - A marriage 'twixt the Duke of Orleans and - Our daughter Mary. I' th' progress of this business, - Ere a determinate resolution, he- - I mean the Bishop-did require a respite - Wherein he might the King his lord advertise - Whether our daughter were legitimate, - Respecting this our marriage with the dowager, - Sometimes our brother's wife. This respite shook - The bosom of my conscience, enter'd me, - Yea, with a splitting power, and made to tremble - The region of my breast, which forc'd such way - That many maz'd considerings did throng - And press'd in with this caution. First, methought - I stood not in the smile of heaven, who had - Commanded nature that my lady's womb, - If it conceiv'd a male child by me, should - Do no more offices of life to't than - The grave does to the dead; for her male issue - Or died where they were made, or shortly after - This world had air'd them. Hence I took a thought - This was a judgment on me, that my kingdom, - Well worthy the best heir o' th' world, should not - Be gladded in't by me. Then follows that - I weigh'd the danger which my realms stood in - By this my issue's fail, and that gave to me - Many a groaning throe. Thus hulling in - The wild sea of my conscience, I did steer - Toward this remedy, whereupon we are - Now present here together; that's to say - I meant to rectify my conscience, which - I then did feel full sick, and yet not well, - By all the reverend fathers of the land - And doctors learn'd. First, I began in private - With you, my Lord of Lincoln; you remember - How under my oppression I did reek, - When I first mov'd you. - LINCOLN. Very well, my liege. - KING. I have spoke long; be pleas'd yourself to say - How far you satisfied me. - LINCOLN. So please your Highness, - The question did at first so stagger me- - Bearing a state of mighty moment in't - And consequence of dread-that I committed - The daring'st counsel which I had to doubt, - And did entreat your Highness to this course - Which you are running here. - KING. I then mov'd you, - My Lord of Canterbury, and got your leave - To make this present summons. Unsolicited - I left no reverend person in this court, - But by particular consent proceeded - Under your hands and seals; therefore, go on, - For no dislike i' th' world against the person - Of the good Queen, but the sharp thorny points - Of my alleged reasons, drives this forward. - Prove but our marriage lawful, by my life - And kingly dignity, we are contented - To wear our moral state to come with her, - Katharine our queen, before the primest creature - That's paragon'd o' th' world. - CAMPEIUS. So please your Highness, - The Queen being absent, 'tis a needful fitness - That we adjourn this court till further day; - Meanwhile must be an earnest motion - Made to the Queen to call back her appeal - She intends unto his Holiness. - KING. [Aside] I may perceive - These cardinals trifle with me. I abhor - This dilatory sloth and tricks of Rome. - My learn'd and well-beloved servant, Cranmer, - Prithee return. With thy approach I know - My comfort comes along. -Break up the court; - I say, set on. Exuent in manner as they entered - -ACT III. SCENE 1. - -London. The QUEEN'S apartments - -Enter the QUEEN and her women, as at work - - QUEEN KATHARINE. Take thy lute, wench. My soul grows - sad with troubles; - Sing and disperse 'em, if thou canst. Leave working. - - SONG - - Orpheus with his lute made trees, - And the mountain tops that freeze, - Bow themselves when he did sing; - To his music plants and flowers - Ever sprung, as sun and showers - There had made a lasting spring. - - Every thing that heard him play, - Even the billows of the sea, - Hung their heads and then lay by. - In sweet music is such art, - Killing care and grief of heart - Fall asleep or hearing die. - - Enter a GENTLEMAN - - QUEEN KATHARINE. How now? - GENTLEMAN. An't please your Grace, the two great Cardinals - Wait in the presence. - QUEEN KATHARINE. Would they speak with me? - GENTLEMAN. They will'd me say so, madam. - QUEEN KATHARINE. Pray their Graces - To come near. [Exit GENTLEMAN] What can be their business - With me, a poor weak woman, fall'n from favour? - I do not like their coming. Now I think on't, - They should be good men, their affairs as righteous; - But all hoods make not monks. - - Enter the two CARDINALS, WOLSEY and CAMPEIUS - - WOLSEY. Peace to your Highness! - QUEEN KATHARINE. Your Graces find me here part of housewife; - I would be all, against the worst may happen. - What are your pleasures with me, reverend lords? - WOLSEY. May it please you, noble madam, to withdraw - Into your private chamber, we shall give you - The full cause of our coming. - QUEEN KATHARINE. Speak it here; - There's nothing I have done yet, o' my conscience, - Deserves a corner. Would all other women - Could speak this with as free a soul as I do! - My lords, I care not-so much I am happy - Above a number-if my actions - Were tried by ev'ry tongue, ev'ry eye saw 'em, - Envy and base opinion set against 'em, - I know my life so even. If your business - Seek me out, and that way I am wife in, - Out with it boldly; truth loves open dealing. - WOLSEY. Tanta est erga te mentis integritas, regina serenis-sima- - QUEEN KATHARINE. O, good my lord, no Latin! - I am not such a truant since my coming, - As not to know the language I have liv'd in; - A strange tongue makes my cause more strange, suspicious; - Pray speak in English. Here are some will thank you, - If you speak truth, for their poor mistress' sake: - Believe me, she has had much wrong. Lord Cardinal, - The willing'st sin I ever yet committed - May be absolv'd in English. - WOLSEY. Noble lady, - I am sorry my integrity should breed, - And service to his Majesty and you, - So deep suspicion, where all faith was meant - We come not by the way of accusation - To taint that honour every good tongue blesses, - Nor to betray you any way to sorrow- - You have too much, good lady; but to know - How you stand minded in the weighty difference - Between the King and you, and to deliver, - Like free and honest men, our just opinions - And comforts to your cause. - CAMPEIUS. Most honour'd madam, - My Lord of York, out of his noble nature, - Zeal and obedience he still bore your Grace, - Forgetting, like a good man, your late censure - Both of his truth and him-which was too far- - Offers, as I do, in a sign of peace, - His service and his counsel. - QUEEN KATHARINE. [Aside] To betray me.- - My lords, I thank you both for your good wins; - Ye speak like honest men-pray God ye prove so! - But how to make ye suddenly an answer, - In such a point of weight, so near mine honour, - More near my life, I fear, with my weak wit, - And to such men of gravity and learning, - In truth I know not. I was set at work - Among my maids, full little, God knows, looking - Either for such men or such business. - For her sake that I have been-for I feel - The last fit of my greatness-good your Graces, - Let me have time and counsel for my cause. - Alas, I am a woman, friendless, hopeless! - WOLSEY. Madam, you wrong the King's love with these fears; - Your hopes and friends are infinite. - QUEEN KATHARINE. In England - But little for my profit; can you think, lords, - That any Englishman dare give me counsel? - Or be a known friend, 'gainst his Highness' pleasure- - Though he be grown so desperate to be honest- - And live a subject? Nay, forsooth, my friends, - They that must weigh out my afflictions, - They that my trust must grow to, live not here; - They are, as all my other comforts, far hence, - In mine own country, lords. - CAMPEIUS. I would your Grace - Would leave your griefs, and take my counsel. - QUEEN KATHARINE. How, sir? - CAMPEIUS. Put your main cause into the King's protection; - He's loving and most gracious. 'Twill be much - Both for your honour better and your cause; - For if the trial of the law o'ertake ye - You'll part away disgrac'd. - WOLSEY. He tells you rightly. - QUEEN KATHARINE. Ye tell me what ye wish for both-my ruin. - Is this your Christian counsel? Out upon ye! - Heaven is above all yet: there sits a Judge - That no king can corrupt. - CAMPEIUS. Your rage mistakes us. - QUEEN KATHARINE. The more shame for ye; holy men I thought ye, - Upon my soul, two reverend cardinal virtues; - But cardinal sins and hollow hearts I fear ye. - Mend 'em, for shame, my lords. Is this your comfort? - The cordial that ye bring a wretched lady- - A woman lost among ye, laugh'd at, scorn'd? - I will not wish ye half my miseries: - I have more charity; but say I warned ye. - Take heed, for heaven's sake take heed, lest at once - The burden of my sorrows fall upon ye. - WOLSEY. Madam, this is a mere distraction; - You turn the good we offer into envy. - QUEEN KATHARINE. Ye turn me into nothing. Woe upon ye, - And all such false professors! Would you have me- - If you have any justice, any pity, - If ye be any thing but churchmen's habits- - Put my sick cause into his hands that hates me? - Alas! has banish'd me his bed already, - His love too long ago! I am old, my lords, - And all the fellowship I hold now with him - Is only my obedience. What can happen - To me above this wretchedness? All your studies - Make me a curse like this. - CAMPEIUS. Your fears are worse. - QUEEN KATHARINE. Have I liv'd thus long-let me speak myself, - Since virtue finds no friends-a wife, a true one? - A woman, I dare say without vain-glory, - Never yet branded with suspicion? - Have I with all my full affections - Still met the King, lov'd him next heav'n, obey'd him, - Been, out of fondness, superstitious to him, - Almost forgot my prayers to content him, - And am I thus rewarded? 'Tis not well, lords. - Bring me a constant woman to her husband, - One that ne'er dream'd a joy beyond his pleasure, - And to that woman, when she has done most, - Yet will I add an honour-a great patience. - WOLSEY. Madam, you wander from the good we aim at. - QUEEN KATHARINE. My lord, I dare not make myself so guilty, - To give up willingly that noble title - Your master wed me to: nothing but death - Shall e'er divorce my dignities. - WOLSEY. Pray hear me. - QUEEN KATHARINE. Would I had never trod this English earth, - Or felt the flatteries that grow upon it! - Ye have angels' faces, but heaven knows your hearts. - What will become of me now, wretched lady? - I am the most unhappy woman living. - [To her WOMEN] Alas, poor wenches, where are now - your fortunes? - Shipwreck'd upon a kingdom, where no pity, - No friends, no hope; no kindred weep for me; - Almost no grave allow'd me. Like the My, - That once was mistress of the field, and flourish'd, - I'll hang my head and perish. - WOLSEY. If your Grace - Could but be brought to know our ends are honest, - You'd feel more comfort. Why should we, good lady, - Upon what cause, wrong you? Alas, our places, - The way of our profession is against it; - We are to cure such sorrows, not to sow 'em. - For goodness' sake, consider what you do; - How you may hurt yourself, ay, utterly - Grow from the King's acquaintance, by this carriage. - The hearts of princes kiss obedience, - So much they love it; but to stubborn spirits - They swell and grow as terrible as storms. - I know you have a gentle, noble temper, - A soul as even as a calm. Pray think us - Those we profess, peace-makers, friends, and servants. - CAMPEIUS. Madam, you'll find it so. You wrong your virtues - With these weak women's fears. A noble spirit, - As yours was put into you, ever casts - Such doubts as false coin from it. The King loves you; - Beware you lose it not. For us, if you please - To trust us in your business, we are ready - To use our utmost studies in your service. - QUEEN KATHARINE. Do what ye will my lords; and pray - forgive me - If I have us'd myself unmannerly; - You know I am a woman, lacking wit - To make a seemly answer to such persons. - Pray do my service to his Majesty; - He has my heart yet, and shall have my prayers - While I shall have my life. Come, reverend fathers, - Bestow your counsels on me; she now begs - That little thought, when she set footing here, - She should have bought her dignities so dear. Exeunt - -ACT III.SCENE 2. - -London. The palace - -Enter the DUKE OF NORFOLK, the DUKE OF SUFFOLK, the EARL OF SURREY, and -the LORD CHAMBERLAIN - - NORFOLK. If you will now unite in your complaints - And force them with a constancy, the Cardinal - Cannot stand under them: if you omit - The offer of this time, I cannot promise - But that you shall sustain moe new disgraces - With these you bear already. - SURREY. I am joyful - To meet the least occasion that may give me - Remembrance of my father-in-law, the Duke, - To be reveng'd on him. - SUFFOLK. Which of the peers - Have uncontemn'd gone by him, or at least - Strangely neglected? When did he regard - The stamp of nobleness in any person - Out of himself? - CHAMBERLAIN. My lords, you speak your pleasures. - What he deserves of you and me I know; - What we can do to him-though now the time - Gives way to us-I much fear. If you cannot - Bar his access to th' King, never attempt - Anything on him; for he hath a witchcraft - Over the King in's tongue. - NORFOLK. O, fear him not! - His spell in that is out; the King hath found - Matter against him that for ever mars - The honey of his language. No, he's settled, - Not to come off, in his displeasure. - SURREY. Sir, - I should be glad to hear such news as this - Once every hour. - NORFOLK. Believe it, this is true: - In the divorce his contrary proceedings - Are all unfolded; wherein he appears - As I would wish mine enemy. - SURREY. How came - His practices to light? - SUFFOLK. Most Strangely. - SURREY. O, how, how? - SUFFOLK. The Cardinal's letters to the Pope miscarried, - And came to th' eye o' th' King; wherein was read - How that the Cardinal did entreat his Holiness - To stay the judgment o' th' divorce; for if - It did take place, 'I do' quoth he 'perceive - My king is tangled in affection to - A creature of the Queen's, Lady Anne Bullen.' - SURREY. Has the King this? - SUFFOLK. Believe it. - SURREY. Will this work? - CHAMBERLAIN. The King in this perceives him how he coasts - And hedges his own way. But in this point - All his tricks founder, and he brings his physic - After his patient's death: the King already - Hath married the fair lady. - SURREY. Would he had! - SUFFOLK. May you be happy in your wish, my lord! - For, I profess, you have it. - SURREY. Now, all my joy - Trace the conjunction! - SUFFOLK. My amen to't! - NORFOLK. An men's! - SUFFOLK. There's order given for her coronation; - Marry, this is yet but young, and may be left - To some ears unrecounted. But, my lords, - She is a gallant creature, and complete - In mind and feature. I persuade me from her - Will fall some blessing to this land, which shall - In it be memoriz'd. - SURREY. But will the King - Digest this letter of the Cardinal's? - The Lord forbid! - NORFOLK. Marry, amen! - SUFFOLK. No, no; - There be moe wasps that buzz about his nose - Will make this sting the sooner. Cardinal Campeius - Is stol'n away to Rome; hath ta'en no leave; - Has left the cause o' th' King unhandled, and - Is posted, as the agent of our Cardinal, - To second all his plot. I do assure you - The King cried 'Ha!' at this. - CHAMBERLAIN. Now, God incense him, - And let him cry 'Ha!' louder! - NORFOLK. But, my lord, - When returns Cranmer? - SUFFOLK. He is return'd in his opinions; which - Have satisfied the King for his divorce, - Together with all famous colleges - Almost in Christendom. Shortly, I believe, - His second marriage shall be publish'd, and - Her coronation. Katharine no more - Shall be call'd queen, but princess dowager - And widow to Prince Arthur. - NORFOLK. This same Cranmer's - A worthy fellow, and hath ta'en much pain - In the King's business. - SUFFOLK. He has; and we shall see him - For it an archbishop. - NORFOLK. So I hear. - SUFFOLK. 'Tis so. - - Enter WOLSEY and CROMWELL - - The Cardinal! - NORFOLK. Observe, observe, he's moody. - WOLSEY. The packet, Cromwell, - Gave't you the King? - CROMWELL. To his own hand, in's bedchamber. - WOLSEY. Look'd he o' th' inside of the paper? - CROMWELL. Presently - He did unseal them; and the first he view'd, - He did it with a serious mind; a heed - Was in his countenance. You he bade - Attend him here this morning. - WOLSEY. Is he ready - To come abroad? - CROMWELL. I think by this he is. - WOLSEY. Leave me awhile. Exit CROMWELL - [Aside] It shall be to the Duchess of Alencon, - The French King's sister; he shall marry her. - Anne Bullen! No, I'll no Anne Bullens for him; - There's more in't than fair visage. Bullen! - No, we'll no Bullens. Speedily I wish - To hear from Rome. The Marchioness of Pembroke! - NORFOLK. He's discontented. - SUFFOLK. May be he hears the King - Does whet his anger to him. - SURREY. Sharp enough, - Lord, for thy justice! - WOLSEY. [Aside] The late Queen's gentlewoman, a knight's - daughter, - To be her mistress' mistress! The Queen's queen! - This candle burns not clear. 'Tis I must snuff it; - Then out it goes. What though I know her virtuous - And well deserving? Yet I know her for - A spleeny Lutheran; and not wholesome to - Our cause that she should lie i' th' bosom of - Our hard-rul'd King. Again, there is sprung up - An heretic, an arch one, Cranmer; one - Hath crawl'd into the favour of the King, - And is his oracle. - NORFOLK. He is vex'd at something. - - Enter the KING, reading of a schedule, and LOVELL - - SURREY. I would 'twere something that would fret the string, - The master-cord on's heart! - SUFFOLK. The King, the King! - KING. What piles of wealth hath he accumulated - To his own portion! And what expense by th' hour - Seems to flow from him! How, i' th' name of thrift, - Does he rake this together?-Now, my lords, - Saw you the Cardinal? - NORFOLK. My lord, we have - Stood here observing him. Some strange commotion - Is in his brain: he bites his lip and starts, - Stops on a sudden, looks upon the ground, - Then lays his finger on his temple; straight - Springs out into fast gait; then stops again, - Strikes his breast hard; and anon he casts - His eye against the moon. In most strange postures - We have seen him set himself. - KING. It may well be - There is a mutiny in's mind. This morning - Papers of state he sent me to peruse, - As I requir'd; and wot you what I found - There-on my conscience, put unwittingly? - Forsooth, an inventory, thus importing - The several parcels of his plate, his treasure, - Rich stuffs, and ornaments of household; which - I find at such proud rate that it outspeaks - Possession of a subject. - NORFOLK. It's heaven's will; - Some spirit put this paper in the packet - To bless your eye withal. - KING. If we did think - His contemplation were above the earth - And fix'd on spiritual object, he should still - dwell in his musings; but I am afraid - His thinkings are below the moon, not worth - His serious considering. - [The KING takes his seat and whispers LOVELL, - who goes to the CARDINAL] - WOLSEY. Heaven forgive me! - Ever God bless your Highness! - KING. Good, my lord, - You are full of heavenly stuff, and bear the inventory - Of your best graces in your mind; the which - You were now running o'er. You have scarce time - To steal from spiritual leisure a brief span - To keep your earthly audit; sure, in that - I deem you an ill husband, and am glad - To have you therein my companion. - WOLSEY. Sir, - For holy offices I have a time; a time - To think upon the part of business which - I bear i' th' state; and nature does require - Her times of preservation, which perforce - I, her frail son, amongst my brethren mortal, - Must give my tendance to. - KING. You have said well. - WOLSEY. And ever may your Highness yoke together, - As I will lend you cause, my doing well - With my well saying! - KING. 'Tis well said again; - And 'tis a kind of good deed to say well; - And yet words are no deeds. My father lov'd you: - He said he did; and with his deed did crown - His word upon you. Since I had my office - I have kept you next my heart; have not alone - Employ'd you where high profits might come home, - But par'd my present havings to bestow - My bounties upon you. - WOLSEY. [Aside] What should this mean? - SURREY. [Aside] The Lord increase this business! - KING. Have I not made you - The prime man of the state? I pray you tell me - If what I now pronounce you have found true; - And, if you may confess it, say withal - If you are bound to us or no. What say you? - WOLSEY. My sovereign, I confess your royal graces, - Show'r'd on me daily, have been more than could - My studied purposes requite; which went - Beyond all man's endeavours. My endeavours, - Have ever come too short of my desires, - Yet fil'd with my abilities; mine own ends - Have been mine so that evermore they pointed - To th' good of your most sacred person and - The profit of the state. For your great graces - Heap'd upon me, poor undeserver, I - Can nothing render but allegiant thanks; - My pray'rs to heaven for you; my loyalty, - Which ever has and ever shall be growing, - Till death, that winter, kill it. - KING. Fairly answer'd! - A loyal and obedient subject is - Therein illustrated; the honour of it - Does pay the act of it, as, i' th' contrary, - The foulness is the punishment. I presume - That, as my hand has open'd bounty to you, - My heart dropp'd love, my pow'r rain'd honour, more - On you than any, so your hand and heart, - Your brain, and every function of your power, - Should, notwithstanding that your bond of duty, - As 'twere in love's particular, be more - To me, your friend, than any. - WOLSEY. I do profess - That for your Highness' good I ever labour'd - More than mine own; that am, have, and will be- - Though all the world should crack their duty to you, - And throw it from their soul; though perils did - Abound as thick as thought could make 'em, and - Appear in forms more horrid-yet my duty, - As doth a rock against the chiding flood, - Should the approach of this wild river break, - And stand unshaken yours. - KING. 'Tis nobly spoken. - Take notice, lords, he has a loyal breast, - For you have seen him open 't. Read o'er this; - [Giving him papers] - And after, this; and then to breakfast with - What appetite you have. - Exit the KING, frowning upon the CARDINAL; the NOBLES - throng after him, smiling and whispering - WOLSEY. What should this mean? - What sudden anger's this? How have I reap'd it? - He parted frowning from me, as if ruin - Leap'd from his eyes; so looks the chafed lion - Upon the daring huntsman that has gall'd him- - Then makes him nothing. I must read this paper; - I fear, the story of his anger. 'Tis so; - This paper has undone me. 'Tis th' account - Of all that world of wealth I have drawn together - For mine own ends; indeed to gain the popedom, - And fee my friends in Rome. O negligence, - Fit for a fool to fall by! What cross devil - Made me put this main secret in the packet - I sent the King? Is there no way to cure this? - No new device to beat this from his brains? - I know 'twill stir him strongly; yet I know - A way, if it take right, in spite of fortune, - Will bring me off again. What's this? 'To th' Pope.' - The letter, as I live, with all the business - I writ to's Holiness. Nay then, farewell! - I have touch'd the highest point of all my greatness, - And from that full meridian of my glory - I haste now to my setting. I shall fall - Like a bright exhalation in the evening, - And no man see me more. - - Re-enter to WOLSEY the DUKES OF NORFOLK and - SUFFOLK, the EARL OF SURREY, and the LORD - CHAMBERLAIN - - NORFOLK. Hear the King's pleasure, Cardinal, who commands you - To render up the great seal presently - Into our hands, and to confine yourself - To Asher House, my Lord of Winchester's, - Till you hear further from his Highness. - WOLSEY. Stay: - Where's your commission, lords? Words cannot carry - Authority so weighty. - SUFFOLK. Who dares cross 'em, - Bearing the King's will from his mouth expressly? - WOLSEY. Till I find more than will or words to do it- - I mean your malice-know, officious lords, - I dare and must deny it. Now I feel - Of what coarse metal ye are moulded-envy; - How eagerly ye follow my disgraces, - As if it fed ye; and how sleek and wanton - Ye appear in every thing may bring my ruin! - Follow your envious courses, men of malice; - You have Christian warrant for 'em, and no doubt - In time will find their fit rewards. That seal - You ask with such a violence, the King- - Mine and your master-with his own hand gave me; - Bade me enjoy it, with the place and honours, - During my life; and, to confirm his goodness, - Tied it by letters-patents. Now, who'll take it? - SURREY. The King, that gave it. - WOLSEY. It must be himself then. - SURREY. Thou art a proud traitor, priest. - WOLSEY. Proud lord, thou liest. - Within these forty hours Surrey durst better - Have burnt that tongue than said so. - SURREY. Thy ambition, - Thou scarlet sin, robb'd this bewailing land - Of noble Buckingham, my father-in-law. - The heads of all thy brother cardinals, - With thee and all thy best parts bound together, - Weigh'd not a hair of his. Plague of your policy! - You sent me deputy for Ireland; - Far from his succour, from the King, from all - That might have mercy on the fault thou gav'st him; - Whilst your great goodness, out of holy pity, - Absolv'd him with an axe. - WOLSEY. This, and all else - This talking lord can lay upon my credit, - I answer is most false. The Duke by law - Found his deserts; how innocent I was - From any private malice in his end, - His noble jury and foul cause can witness. - If I lov'd many words, lord, I should tell you - You have as little honesty as honour, - That in the way of loyalty and truth - Toward the King, my ever royal master, - Dare mate a sounder man than Surrey can be - And an that love his follies. - SURREY. By my soul, - Your long coat, priest, protects you; thou shouldst feel - My sword i' the life-blood of thee else. My lords - Can ye endure to hear this arrogance? - And from this fellow? If we live thus tamely, - To be thus jaded by a piece of scarlet, - Farewell nobility! Let his Grace go forward - And dare us with his cap like larks. - WOLSEY. All goodness - Is poison to thy stomach. - SURREY. Yes, that goodness - Of gleaning all the land's wealth into one, - Into your own hands, Cardinal, by extortion; - The goodness of your intercepted packets - You writ to th' Pope against the King; your goodness, - Since you provoke me, shall be most notorious. - My Lord of Norfolk, as you are truly noble, - As you respect the common good, the state - Of our despis'd nobility, our issues, - Whom, if he live, will scarce be gentlemen- - Produce the grand sum of his sins, the articles - Collected from his life. I'll startle you - Worse than the sacring bell, when the brown wench - Lay kissing in your arms, Lord Cardinal. - WOLSEY. How much, methinks, I could despise this man, - But that I am bound in charity against it! - NORFOLK. Those articles, my lord, are in the King's hand; - But, thus much, they are foul ones. - WOLSEY. So much fairer - And spotless shall mine innocence arise, - When the King knows my truth. - SURREY. This cannot save you. - I thank my memory I yet remember - Some of these articles; and out they shall. - Now, if you can blush and cry guilty, Cardinal, - You'll show a little honesty. - WOLSEY. Speak on, sir; - I dare your worst objections. If I blush, - It is to see a nobleman want manners. - SURREY. I had rather want those than my head. Have at you! - First, that without the King's assent or knowledge - You wrought to be a legate; by which power - You maim'd the jurisdiction of all bishops. - NORFOLK. Then, that in all you writ to Rome, or else - To foreign princes, 'Ego et Rex meus' - Was still inscrib'd; in which you brought the King - To be your servant. - SUFFOLK. Then, that without the knowledge - Either of King or Council, when you went - Ambassador to the Emperor, you made bold - To carry into Flanders the great seal. - SURREY. Item, you sent a large commission - To Gregory de Cassado, to conclude, - Without the King's will or the state's allowance, - A league between his Highness and Ferrara. - SUFFOLK. That out of mere ambition you have caus'd - Your holy hat to be stamp'd on the King's coin. - SURREY. Then, that you have sent innumerable substance, - By what means got I leave to your own conscience, - To furnish Rome and to prepare the ways - You have for dignities, to the mere undoing - Of all the kingdom. Many more there are, - Which, since they are of you, and odious, - I will not taint my mouth with. - CHAMBERLAIN. O my lord, - Press not a falling man too far! 'Tis virtue. - His faults lie open to the laws; let them, - Not you, correct him. My heart weeps to see him - So little of his great self. - SURREY. I forgive him. - SUFFOLK. Lord Cardinal, the King's further pleasure is- - Because all those things you have done of late, - By your power legatine within this kingdom, - Fall into th' compass of a praemunire- - That therefore such a writ be sued against you: - To forfeit all your goods, lands, tenements, - Chattels, and whatsoever, and to be - Out of the King's protection. This is my charge. - NORFOLK. And so we'll leave you to your meditations - How to live better. For your stubborn answer - About the giving back the great seal to us, - The King shall know it, and, no doubt, shall thank you. - So fare you well, my little good Lord Cardinal. - Exeunt all but WOLSEY - WOLSEY. So farewell to the little good you bear me. - Farewell, a long farewell, to all my greatness! - This is the state of man: to-day he puts forth - The tender leaves of hopes; to-morrow blossoms - And bears his blushing honours thick upon him; - The third day comes a frost, a killing frost, - And when he thinks, good easy man, full surely - His greatness is a-ripening, nips his root, - And then he falls, as I do. I have ventur'd, - Like little wanton boys that swim on bladders, - This many summers in a sea of glory; - But far beyond my depth. My high-blown pride - At length broke under me, and now has left me, - Weary and old with service, to the mercy - Of a rude stream, that must for ever hide me. - Vain pomp and glory of this world, I hate ye; - I feel my heart new open'd. O, how wretched - Is that poor man that hangs on princes' favours! - There is betwixt that smile we would aspire to, - That sweet aspect of princes, and their ruin - More pangs and fears than wars or women have; - And when he falls, he falls like Lucifer, - Never to hope again. - - Enter CROMWELL, standing amazed - - Why, how now, Cromwell! - CROMWELL. I have no power to speak, sir. - WOLSEY. What, amaz'd - At my misfortunes? Can thy spirit wonder - A great man should decline? Nay, an you weep, - I am fall'n indeed. - CROMWELL. How does your Grace? - WOLSEY. Why, well; - Never so truly happy, my good Cromwell. - I know myself now, and I feel within me - A peace above all earthly dignities, - A still and quiet conscience. The King has cur'd me, - I humbly thank his Grace; and from these shoulders, - These ruin'd pillars, out of pity, taken - A load would sink a navy-too much honour. - O, 'tis a burden, Cromwell, 'tis a burden - Too heavy for a man that hopes for heaven! - CROMWELL. I am glad your Grace has made that right use of it. - WOLSEY. I hope I have. I am able now, methinks, - Out of a fortitude of soul I feel, - To endure more miseries and greater far - Than my weak-hearted enemies dare offer. - What news abroad? - CROMWELL. The heaviest and the worst - Is your displeasure with the King. - WOLSEY. God bless him! - CROMWELL. The next is that Sir Thomas More is chosen - Lord Chancellor in your place. - WOLSEY. That's somewhat sudden. - But he's a learned man. May he continue - Long in his Highness' favour, and do justice - For truth's sake and his conscience; that his bones - When he has run his course and sleeps in blessings, - May have a tomb of orphans' tears wept on him! - What more? - CROMWELL. That Cranmer is return'd with welcome, - Install'd Lord Archbishop of Canterbury. - WOLSEY. That's news indeed. - CROMWELL. Last, that the Lady Anne, - Whom the King hath in secrecy long married, - This day was view'd in open as his queen, - Going to chapel; and the voice is now - Only about her coronation. - WOLSEY. There was the weight that pull'd me down. - O Cromwell, - The King has gone beyond me. All my glories - In that one woman I have lost for ever. - No sun shall ever usher forth mine honours, - Or gild again the noble troops that waited - Upon my smiles. Go get thee from me, Cromwell; - I am a poor fall'n man, unworthy now - To be thy lord and master. Seek the King; - That sun, I pray, may never set! I have told him - What and how true thou art. He will advance thee; - Some little memory of me will stir him- - I know his noble nature-not to let - Thy hopeful service perish too. Good Cromwell, - Neglect him not; make use now, and provide - For thine own future safety. - CROMWELL. O my lord, - Must I then leave you? Must I needs forgo - So good, so noble, and so true a master? - Bear witness, all that have not hearts of iron, - With what a sorrow Cromwell leaves his lord. - The King shall have my service; but my prayers - For ever and for ever shall be yours. - WOLSEY. Cromwell, I did not think to shed a tear - In all my miseries; but thou hast forc'd me, - Out of thy honest truth, to play the woman. - Let's dry our eyes; and thus far hear me, Cromwell, - And when I am forgotten, as I shall be, - And sleep in dull cold marble, where no mention - Of me more must be heard of, say I taught thee- - Say Wolsey, that once trod the ways of glory, - And sounded all the depths and shoals of honour, - Found thee a way, out of his wreck, to rise in- - A sure and safe one, though thy master miss'd it. - Mark but my fall and that that ruin'd me. - Cromwell, I charge thee, fling away ambition: - By that sin fell the angels. How can man then, - The image of his Maker, hope to win by it? - Love thyself last; cherish those hearts that hate thee; - Corruption wins not more than honesty. - Still in thy right hand carry gentle peace - To silence envious tongues. Be just, and fear not; - Let all the ends thou aim'st at be thy country's, - Thy God's, and truth's; then, if thou fall'st, O Cromwell, - Thou fall'st a blessed martyr! - Serve the King, and-prithee lead me in. - There take an inventory of all I have - To the last penny; 'tis the King's. My robe, - And my integrity to heaven, is all - I dare now call mine own. O Cromwell, Cromwell! - Had I but serv'd my God with half the zeal - I serv'd my King, he would not in mine age - Have left me naked to mine enemies. - CROMWELL. Good sir, have patience. - WOLSEY. So I have. Farewell - The hopes of court! My hopes in heaven do dwell. Exeunt - -ACT IV. SCENE 1. - -A street in Westminster - -Enter two GENTLEMEN, meeting one another - - FIRST GENTLEMAN. Y'are well met once again. - SECOND GENTLEMAN. So are you. - FIRST GENTLEMAN. You come to take your stand here, and - behold - The Lady Anne pass from her coronation? - SECOND GENTLEMAN. 'Tis all my business. At our last encounter - The Duke of Buckingham came from his trial. - FIRST GENTLEMAN. 'Tis very true. But that time offer'd - sorrow; - This, general joy. - SECOND GENTLEMAN. 'Tis well. The citizens, - I am sure, have shown at full their royal minds- - As, let 'em have their rights, they are ever forward- - In celebration of this day with shows, - Pageants, and sights of honour. - FIRST GENTLEMAN. Never greater, - Nor, I'll assure you, better taken, sir. - SECOND GENTLEMAN. May I be bold to ask what that contains, - That paper in your hand? - FIRST GENTLEMAN. Yes; 'tis the list - Of those that claim their offices this day, - By custom of the coronation. - The Duke of Suffolk is the first, and claims - To be High Steward; next, the Duke of Norfolk, - He to be Earl Marshal. You may read the rest. - SECOND GENTLEMAN. I thank you, sir; had I not known - those customs, - I should have been beholding to your paper. - But, I beseech you, what's become of Katharine, - The Princess Dowager? How goes her business? - FIRST GENTLEMAN. That I can tell you too. The Archbishop - Of Canterbury, accompanied with other - Learned and reverend fathers of his order, - Held a late court at Dunstable, six miles of - From Ampthill, where the Princess lay; to which - She was often cited by them, but appear'd not. - And, to be short, for not appearance and - The King's late scruple, by the main assent - Of all these learned men, she was divorc'd, - And the late marriage made of none effect; - Since which she was removed to Kimbolton, - Where she remains now sick. - SECOND GENTLEMAN. Alas, good lady! [Trumpets] - The trumpets sound. Stand close, the Queen is coming. -[Hautboys] - - THE ORDER OF THE CORONATION. - - 1. A lively flourish of trumpets. - 2. Then two JUDGES. - 3. LORD CHANCELLOR, with purse and mace before him. - 4. CHORISTERS singing. [Music] - 5. MAYOR OF LONDON, bearing the mace. Then GARTER, in - his coat of arms, and on his head he wore a gilt copper - crown. - 6. MARQUIS DORSET, bearing a sceptre of gold, on his head a - demi-coronal of gold. With him, the EARL OF SURREY, - bearing the rod of silver with the dove, crowned with an - earl's coronet. Collars of Esses. - 7. DUKE OF SUFFOLK, in his robe of estate, his coronet on - his head, bearing a long white wand, as High Steward. - With him, the DUKE OF NORFOLK, with the rod of - marshalship, a coronet on his head. Collars of Esses. - 8. A canopy borne by four of the CINQUE-PORTS; under it - the QUEEN in her robe; in her hair richly adorned with - pearl, crowned. On each side her, the BISHOPS OF LONDON - and WINCHESTER. - 9. The old DUCHESS OF NORFOLK, in a coronal of gold - wrought with flowers, bearing the QUEEN'S train. - 10. Certain LADIES or COUNTESSES, with plain circlets of gold - without flowers. - - Exeunt, first passing over the stage in order and state, - and then a great flourish of trumpets - - SECOND GENTLEMAN. A royal train, believe me. These know. - Who's that that bears the sceptre? - FIRST GENTLEMAN. Marquis Dorset; - And that the Earl of Surrey, with the rod. - SECOND GENTLEMAN. A bold brave gentleman. That should be - The Duke of Suffolk? - FIRST GENTLEMAN. 'Tis the same-High Steward. - SECOND GENTLEMAN. And that my Lord of Norfolk? - FIRST GENTLEMAN. Yes. - SECOND GENTLEMAN. [Looking on the QUEEN] Heaven - bless thee! - Thou hast the sweetest face I ever look'd on. - Sir, as I have a soul, she is an angel; - Our king has all the Indies in his arms, - And more and richer, when he strains that lady; - I cannot blame his conscience. - FIRST GENTLEMAN. They that bear - The cloth of honour over her are four barons - Of the Cinque-ports. - SECOND GENTLEMAN. Those men are happy; and so are all - are near her. - I take it she that carries up the train - Is that old noble lady, Duchess of Norfolk. - FIRST GENTLEMAN. It is; and all the rest are countesses. - SECOND GENTLEMAN. Their coronets say so. These are stars indeed, - And sometimes falling ones. - FIRST GENTLEMAN. No more of that. - Exit Procession, with a great flourish of trumpets - - Enter a third GENTLEMAN - - God save you, sir! Where have you been broiling? - THIRD GENTLEMAN. Among the crowds i' th' Abbey, where a finger - Could not be wedg'd in more; I am stifled - With the mere rankness of their joy. - SECOND GENTLEMAN. You saw - The ceremony? - THIRD GENTLEMAN. That I did. - FIRST GENTLEMAN. How was it? - THIRD GENTLEMAN. Well worth the seeing. - SECOND GENTLEMAN. Good sir, speak it to us. - THIRD GENTLEMAN. As well as I am able. The rich stream - Of lords and ladies, having brought the Queen - To a prepar'd place in the choir, fell of - A distance from her, while her Grace sat down - To rest awhile, some half an hour or so, - In a rich chair of state, opposing freely - The beauty of her person to the people. - Believe me, sir, she is the goodliest woman - That ever lay by man; which when the people - Had the full view of, such a noise arose - As the shrouds make at sea in a stiff tempest, - As loud, and to as many tunes; hats, cloaks- - Doublets, I think-flew up, and had their faces - Been loose, this day they had been lost. Such joy - I never saw before. Great-bellied women, - That had not half a week to go, like rams - In the old time of war, would shake the press, - And make 'em reel before 'em. No man living - Could say 'This is my wife' there, all were woven - So strangely in one piece. - SECOND GENTLEMAN. But what follow'd? - THIRD GENTLEMAN. At length her Grace rose, and with - modest paces - Came to the altar, where she kneel'd, and saintlike - Cast her fair eyes to heaven, and pray'd devoutly. - Then rose again, and bow'd her to the people; - When by the Archbishop of Canterbury - She had all the royal makings of a queen: - As holy oil, Edward Confessor's crown, - The rod, and bird of peace, and all such emblems - Laid nobly on her; which perform'd, the choir, - With all the choicest music of the kingdom, - Together sung 'Te Deum.' So she parted, - And with the same full state pac'd back again - To York Place, where the feast is held. - FIRST GENTLEMAN. Sir, - You must no more call it York Place: that's past: - For since the Cardinal fell that title's lost. - 'Tis now the King's, and called Whitehall. - THIRD GENTLEMAN. I know it; - But 'tis so lately alter'd that the old name - Is fresh about me. - SECOND GENTLEMAN. What two reverend bishops - Were those that went on each side of the Queen? - THIRD GENTLEMAN. Stokesly and Gardiner: the one of Winchester, - Newly preferr'd from the King's secretary; - The other, London. - SECOND GENTLEMAN. He of Winchester - Is held no great good lover of the Archbishop's, - The virtuous Cranmer. - THIRD GENTLEMAN. All the land knows that; - However, yet there is no great breach. When it comes, - Cranmer will find a friend will not shrink from him. - SECOND GENTLEMAN. Who may that be, I pray you? - THIRD GENTLEMAN. Thomas Cromwell, - A man in much esteem with th' King, and truly - A worthy friend. The King has made him Master - O' th' jewel House, - And one, already, of the Privy Council. - SECOND GENTLEMAN. He will deserve more. - THIRD GENTLEMAN. Yes, without all doubt. - Come, gentlemen, ye shall go my way, which - Is to th' court, and there ye shall be my guests: - Something I can command. As I walk thither, - I'll tell ye more. - BOTH. You may command us, sir. Exeunt - -ACT IV. SCENE 2. - -Kimbolton - -Enter KATHARINE, Dowager, sick; led between GRIFFITH, her Gentleman -Usher, and PATIENCE, her woman - - GRIFFITH. How does your Grace? - KATHARINE. O Griffith, sick to death! - My legs like loaden branches bow to th' earth, - Willing to leave their burden. Reach a chair. - So-now, methinks, I feel a little ease. - Didst thou not tell me, Griffith, as thou led'st me, - That the great child of honour, Cardinal Wolsey, - Was dead? - GRIFFITH. Yes, madam; but I think your Grace, - Out of the pain you suffer'd, gave no ear to't. - KATHARINE. Prithee, good Griffith, tell me how he died. - If well, he stepp'd before me, happily, - For my example. - GRIFFITH. Well, the voice goes, madam; - For after the stout Earl Northumberland - Arrested him at York and brought him forward, - As a man sorely tainted, to his answer, - He fell sick suddenly, and grew so ill - He could not sit his mule. - KATHARINE. Alas, poor man! - GRIFFITH. At last, with easy roads, he came to Leicester, - Lodg'd in the abbey; where the reverend abbot, - With all his covent, honourably receiv'd him; - To whom he gave these words: 'O father Abbot, - An old man, broken with the storms of state, - Is come to lay his weary bones among ye; - Give him a little earth for charity!' - So went to bed; where eagerly his sickness - Pursu'd him still And three nights after this, - About the hour of eight-which he himself - Foretold should be his last-full of repentance, - Continual meditations, tears, and sorrows, - He gave his honours to the world again, - His blessed part to heaven, and slept in peace. - KATHARINE. So may he rest; his faults lie gently on him! - Yet thus far, Griffith, give me leave to speak him, - And yet with charity. He was a man - Of an unbounded stomach, ever ranking - Himself with princes; one that, by suggestion, - Tied all the kingdom. Simony was fair play; - His own opinion was his law. I' th' presence - He would say untruths, and be ever double - Both in his words and meaning. He was never, - But where he meant to ruin, pitiful. - His promises were, as he then was, mighty; - But his performance, as he is now, nothing. - Of his own body he was ill, and gave - The clergy ill example. - GRIFFITH. Noble madam, - Men's evil manners live in brass: their virtues - We write in water. May it please your Highness - To hear me speak his good now? - KATHARINE. Yes, good Griffith; - I were malicious else. - GRIFFITH. This Cardinal, - Though from an humble stock, undoubtedly - Was fashion'd to much honour from his cradle. - He was a scholar, and a ripe and good one; - Exceeding wise, fair-spoken, and persuading; - Lofty and sour to them that lov'd him not, - But to those men that sought him sweet as summer. - And though he were unsatisfied in getting- - Which was a sin-yet in bestowing, madam, - He was most princely: ever witness for him - Those twins of learning that he rais'd in you, - Ipswich and Oxford! One of which fell with him, - Unwilling to outlive the good that did it; - The other, though unfinish'd, yet so famous, - So excellent in art, and still so rising, - That Christendom shall ever speak his virtue. - His overthrow heap'd happiness upon him; - For then, and not till then, he felt himself, - And found the blessedness of being little. - And, to add greater honours to his age - Than man could give him, he died fearing God. - KATHARINE. After my death I wish no other herald, - No other speaker of my living actions, - To keep mine honour from corruption, - But such an honest chronicler as Griffith. - Whom I most hated living, thou hast made me, - With thy religious truth and modesty, - Now in his ashes honour. Peace be with him! - patience, be near me still, and set me lower: - I have not long to trouble thee. Good Griffith, - Cause the musicians play me that sad note - I nam'd my knell, whilst I sit meditating - On that celestial harmony I go to. - [Sad and solemn music] - GRIFFITH. She is asleep. Good wench, let's sit down quiet, - For fear we wake her. Softly, gentle Patience. - - THE VISION. - - Enter, solemnly tripping one after another, six PERSONAGES clad - in white robes, wearing on their heads garlands of bays, and - golden vizards on their faces; branches of bays or palm in their - hands. They first congee unto her, then dance; and, at certain - changes, the first two hold a spare garland over her head, at - which the other four make reverent curtsies. Then the two that - held the garland deliver the same to the other next two, who - observe the same order in their changes, and holding the garland - over her head; which done, they deliver the same garland to the - last two, who likewise observe the same order; at which, as it - were by inspiration, she makes in her sleep signs of rejoicing, - and holdeth up her hands to heaven. And so in their dancing - vanish, carrying the garland with them. The music continues - - KATHARINE. Spirits of peace, where are ye? Are ye all gone? - And leave me here in wretchedness behind ye? - GRIFFITH. Madam, we are here. - KATHARINE. It is not you I call for. - Saw ye none enter since I slept? - GRIFFITH. None, madam. - KATHARINE. No? Saw you not, even now, a blessed troop - Invite me to a banquet; whose bright faces - Cast thousand beams upon me, like the sun? - They promis'd me eternal happiness, - And brought me garlands, Griffith, which I feel - I am not worthy yet to wear. I shall, assuredly. - GRIFFITH. I am most joyful, madam, such good dreams - Possess your fancy. - KATHARINE. Bid the music leave, - They are harsh and heavy to me. [Music ceases] - PATIENCE. Do you note - How much her Grace is alter'd on the sudden? - How long her face is drawn! How pale she looks, - And of an earthly cold! Mark her eyes. - GRIFFITH. She is going, wench. Pray, pray. - PATIENCE. Heaven comfort her! - - Enter a MESSENGER - - MESSENGER. An't like your Grace- - KATHARINE. You are a saucy fellow. - Deserve we no more reverence? - GRIFFITH. You are to blame, - Knowing she will not lose her wonted greatness, - To use so rude behaviour. Go to, kneel. - MESSENGER. I humbly do entreat your Highness' pardon; - My haste made me unmannerly. There is staying - A gentleman, sent from the King, to see you. - KATHARINE. Admit him entrance, Griffith; but this fellow - Let me ne'er see again. Exit MESSENGER - - Enter LORD CAPUCIUS - - If my sight fail not, - You should be Lord Ambassador from the Emperor, - My royal nephew, and your name Capucius. - CAPUCIUS. Madam, the same-your servant. - KATHARINE. O, my Lord, - The times and titles now are alter'd strangely - With me since first you knew me. But, I pray you, - What is your pleasure with me? - CAPUCIUS. Noble lady, - First, mine own service to your Grace; the next, - The King's request that I would visit you, - Who grieves much for your weakness, and by me - Sends you his princely commendations - And heartily entreats you take good comfort. - KATHARINE. O my good lord, that comfort comes too late, - 'Tis like a pardon after execution: - That gentle physic, given in time, had cur'd me; - But now I am past all comforts here, but prayers. - How does his Highness? - CAPUCIUS. Madam, in good health. - KATHARINE. So may he ever do! and ever flourish - When I shall dwell with worms, and my poor name - Banish'd the kingdom! Patience, is that letter - I caus'd you write yet sent away? - PATIENCE. No, madam. [Giving it to KATHARINE] - KATHARINE. Sir, I most humbly pray you to deliver - This to my lord the King. - CAPUCIUS. Most willing, madam. - KATHARINE. In which I have commended to his goodness - The model of our chaste loves, his young daughter- - The dews of heaven fall thick in blessings on her!- - Beseeching him to give her virtuous breeding- - She is young, and of a noble modest nature; - I hope she will deserve well-and a little - To love her for her mother's sake, that lov'd him, - Heaven knows how dearly. My next poor petition - Is that his noble Grace would have some pity - Upon my wretched women that so long - Have follow'd both my fortunes faithfully; - Of which there is not one, I dare avow- - And now I should not lie-but will deserve, - For virtue and true beauty of the soul, - For honesty and decent carriage, - A right good husband, let him be a noble; - And sure those men are happy that shall have 'em. - The last is for my men-they are the poorest, - But poverty could never draw 'em from me- - That they may have their wages duly paid 'em, - And something over to remember me by. - If heaven had pleas'd to have given me longer life - And able means, we had not parted thus. - These are the whole contents; and, good my lord, - By that you love the dearest in this world, - As you wish Christian peace to souls departed, - Stand these poor people's friend, and urge the King - To do me this last right. - CAPUCIUS. By heaven, I will, - Or let me lose the fashion of a man! - KATHARINE. I thank you, honest lord. Remember me - In all humility unto his Highness; - Say his long trouble now is passing - Out of this world. Tell him in death I bless'd him, - For so I will. Mine eyes grow dim. Farewell, - My lord. Griffith, farewell. Nay, Patience, - You must not leave me yet. I must to bed; - Call in more women. When I am dead, good wench, - Let me be us'd with honour; strew me over - With maiden flowers, that all the world may know - I was a chaste wife to my grave. Embalm me, - Then lay me forth; although unqueen'd, yet like - A queen, and daughter to a king, inter me. - I can no more. Exeunt, leading KATHARINE +Enter Lord Chamberlain, Lord Sandys and Sir Thomas Lovell. -ACT V. SCENE 1. +O, my lord, you’re tardy. +The very thought of this fair company +Clapped wings to me. + +CHAMBERLAIN. +You are young, Sir Harry Guildford. + +SANDYS. +Sir Thomas Lovell, had the Cardinal +But half my lay thoughts in him, some of these +Should find a running banquet ere they rested, +I think would better please ’em. By my life, +They are a sweet society of fair ones. + +LOVELL. +O, that your lordship were but now confessor +To one or two of these! + +SANDYS. +I would I were. +They should find easy penance. + +LOVELL. +Faith, how easy? + +SANDYS. +As easy as a down bed would afford it. + +CHAMBERLAIN. +Sweet ladies, will it please you sit? Sir Harry, +Place you that side; I’ll take the charge of this. +His Grace is ent’ring. Nay, you must not freeze; +Two women placed together makes cold weather. +My Lord Sandys, you are one will keep ’em waking. +Pray, sit between these ladies. + +SANDYS. +By my faith, +And thank your lordship. By your leave, sweet ladies. +If I chance to talk a little wild, forgive me; +I had it from my father. + +ANNE. +Was he mad, sir? + +SANDYS. +O, very mad, exceeding mad in love too; +But he would bite none. Just as I do now, +He would kiss you twenty with a breath. + +[_Kisses her._] + +CHAMBERLAIN. +Well said, my lord. +So, now you’re fairly seated. gentlemen, +The penance lies on you if these fair ladies +Pass away frowning. + +SANDYS. +For my little cure, +Let me alone. + +Hautboys. Enter Cardinal Wolsey and takes his state. + +WOLSEY. +You’re welcome, my fair guests. That noble lady +Or gentleman that is not freely merry +Is not my friend. This, to confirm my welcome; +And to you all, good health. + +[_Drinks._] + +SANDYS. +Your Grace is noble. +Let me have such a bowl may hold my thanks +And save me so much talking. + +WOLSEY. +My Lord Sandys, +I am beholding to you. Cheer your neighbours. +Ladies, you are not merry. Gentlemen, +Whose fault is this? + +SANDYS. +The red wine first must rise +In their fair cheeks, my lord; then we shall have ’em +Talk us to silence. + +ANNE. +You are a merry gamester, +My Lord Sandys. + +SANDYS. +Yes, if I make my play. +Here’s to your ladyship; and pledge it, madam, +For ’tis to such a thing— + +ANNE. +You cannot show me. + +SANDYS. +I told your Grace they would talk anon. + +[_Drum and trumpet. Chambers discharged._] + +WOLSEY. +What’s that? + +CHAMBERLAIN. +Look out there, some of ye. + +[_Exit Servant._] + +WOLSEY. +What warlike voice, +And to what end, is this? Nay, ladies, fear not. +By all the laws of war you’re privileged. + +Enter Servant. + +CHAMBERLAIN. +How now, what is’t? + +SERVANT. +A noble troop of strangers, +For so they seem. They’ve left their barge and landed, +And hither make, as great ambassadors +From foreign princes. + +WOLSEY. +Good Lord Chamberlain, +Go, give ’em welcome—you can speak the French tongue— +And pray receive ’em nobly, and conduct ’em +Into our presence, where this heaven of beauty +Shall shine at full upon them. Some attend him. + +[_Exit Chamberlain, attended. All rise, and tables removed._] + +You have now a broken banquet, but we’ll mend it. +A good digestion to you all; and once more +I shower a welcome on ye. Welcome all! + +Hautboys. Enter King and others as masquers, habited like shepherds, +ushered by the Lord Chamberlain. They pass directly before the Cardinal +and gracefully salute him. + +A noble company! What are their pleasures? + +CHAMBERLAIN. +Because they speak no English, thus they prayed +To tell your Grace: that having heard by fame +Of this so noble and so fair assembly +This night to meet here, they could do no less, +Out of the great respect they bear to beauty, +But leave their flocks and, under your fair conduct, +Crave leave to view these ladies and entreat +An hour of revels with ’em. + +WOLSEY. +Say, Lord Chamberlain, +They have done my poor house grace; for which I pay ’em +A thousand thanks and pray ’em take their pleasures. + +[_The masquers choose ladies. The King chooses Anne Bullen._] + +KING. +The fairest hand I ever touched! O beauty, +Till now I never knew thee. + +[_Music. Dance._] + +WOLSEY. +My lord! + +CHAMBERLAIN. +Your Grace? + +WOLSEY. +Pray tell ’em thus much from me: +There should be one amongst ’em, by his person +More worthy this place than myself, to whom, +If I but knew him, with my love and duty +I would surrender it. + +CHAMBERLAIN. +I will, my lord. + +[_Whispers with the Masquers._] + +WOLSEY. +What say they? + +CHAMBERLAIN. +Such a one they all confess +There is indeed, which they would have your Grace +Find out, and he will take it. + +WOLSEY. +Let me see, then. +By all your good leaves, gentlemen; here I’ll make +My royal choice. + +KING. +[_Unmasking_.] Ye have found him, Cardinal. +You hold a fair assembly; you do well, lord. +You are a churchman, or I’ll tell you, Cardinal, +I should judge now unhappily. + +WOLSEY. +I am glad +Your Grace is grown so pleasant. + +KING. +My Lord Chamberlain, +Prithee come hither. What fair lady’s that? + +CHAMBERLAIN. +An’t please your Grace, Sir Thomas Bullen’s daughter, +The Viscount Rochford, one of her Highness’ women. + +KING. +By heaven, she is a dainty one. Sweetheart, +I were unmannerly to take you out +And not to kiss you. A health, gentlemen! +Let it go round. + +WOLSEY. +Sir Thomas Lovell, is the banquet ready +I’ th’ privy chamber? + +LOVELL. +Yes, my lord. + +WOLSEY. +Your Grace, +I fear, with dancing is a little heated. + +KING. +I fear, too much. + +WOLSEY. +There’s fresher air, my lord, +In the next chamber. + +KING. +Lead in your ladies, every one. Sweet partner, +I must not yet forsake you. Let’s be merry, +Good my Lord Cardinal, I have half a dozen healths +To drink to these fair ladies, and a measure +To lead ’em once again, and then let’s dream +Who’s best in favour. Let the music knock it. + +[_Exeunt with trumpets._] + + + + +ACT II + +SCENE I. Westminster. A street. + + +Enter two Gentlemen at several doors. + +FIRST GENTLEMAN. +Whither away so fast? + +SECOND GENTLEMAN. +O, God save ye. +Even to the Hall, to hear what shall become +Of the great Duke of Buckingham. + +FIRST GENTLEMAN. +I’ll save you +That labour, sir. All’s now done but the ceremony +Of bringing back the prisoner. + +SECOND GENTLEMAN. +Were you there? + +FIRST GENTLEMAN. +Yes, indeed, was I. + +SECOND GENTLEMAN. +Pray speak what has happened. + +FIRST GENTLEMAN. +You may guess quickly what. + +SECOND GENTLEMAN. +Is he found guilty? + +FIRST GENTLEMAN. +Yes, truly is he, and condemned upon’t. + +SECOND GENTLEMAN. +I am sorry for’t. + +FIRST GENTLEMAN. +So are a number more. + +SECOND GENTLEMAN. +But pray, how passed it? + +FIRST GENTLEMAN. +I’ll tell you in a little. The great Duke +Came to the bar, where to his accusations +He pleaded still not guilty and alleged +Many sharp reasons to defeat the law. +The King’s attorney on the contrary +Urged on the examinations, proofs, confessions +Of divers witnesses, which the Duke desired +To have brought _viva voce_ to his face; +At which appeared against him his surveyor, +Sir Gilbert Peck his chancellor, and John Car, +Confessor to him, with that devil monk, +Hopkins, that made this mischief. + +SECOND GENTLEMAN. +That was he +That fed him with his prophecies? + +FIRST GENTLEMAN. +The same. +All these accused him strongly, which he fain +Would have flung from him, but, indeed he could not. +And so his peers, upon this evidence, +Have found him guilty of high treason. Much +He spoke, and learnedly, for life, but all +Was either pitied in him or forgotten. + +SECOND GENTLEMAN. +After all this, how did he bear himself? + +FIRST GENTLEMAN. +When he was brought again to th’ bar to hear +His knell rung out, his judgement, he was stirred +With such an agony, he sweat extremely +And something spoke in choler, ill and hasty. +But he fell to himself again, and sweetly +In all the rest showed a most noble patience. + +SECOND GENTLEMAN. +I do not think he fears death. + +FIRST GENTLEMAN. +Sure he does not; +He never was so womanish. The cause +He may a little grieve at. + +SECOND GENTLEMAN. +Certainly +The Cardinal is the end of this. + +FIRST GENTLEMAN. +’Tis likely, +By all conjectures: first, Kildare’s attainder, +Then deputy of Ireland, who removed, +Earl Surrey was sent thither, and in haste too, +Lest he should help his father. + +SECOND GENTLEMAN. +That trick of state +Was a deep envious one. + +FIRST GENTLEMAN. +At his return +No doubt he will requite it. This is noted, +And generally, whoever the King favours, +The Cardinal instantly will find employment, +And far enough from court too. + +SECOND GENTLEMAN. +All the commons +Hate him perniciously and, o’ my conscience, +Wish him ten fathom deep. This duke as much +They love and dote on, call him bounteous Buckingham, +The mirror of all courtesy. + +Enter Buckingham from his arraignment. Tipstaves before him, the axe +with the edge towards him, Halberds on each side, accompanied with Sir +Thomas Lovell, Sir Nicholas Vaux, Sir William Sandys and common people. + +FIRST GENTLEMAN. +Stay there, sir, +And see the noble ruined man you speak of. + +SECOND GENTLEMAN. +Let’s stand close and behold him. + +BUCKINGHAM. +All good people, +You that thus far have come to pity me, +Hear what I say, and then go home and lose me. +I have this day received a traitor’s judgement, +And by that name must die; yet heaven bear witness, +And if I have a conscience, let it sink me, +Even as the axe falls, if I be not faithful! +The law I bear no malice for my death; +’T has done, upon the premises, but justice. +But those that sought it I could wish more Christians. +Be what they will, I heartily forgive ’em. +Yet let ’em look they glory not in mischief, +Nor build their evils on the graves of great men, +For then my guiltless blood must cry against ’em. +For further life in this world I ne’er hope, +Nor will I sue, although the King have mercies +More than I dare make faults. You few that loved me +And dare be bold to weep for Buckingham, +His noble friends and fellows, whom to leave +Is only bitter to him, only dying, +Go with me like good angels to my end, +And as the long divorce of steel falls on me, +Make of your prayers one sweet sacrifice, +And lift my soul to heaven. Lead on, i’ God’s name. + +LOVELL. +I do beseech your Grace, for charity, +If ever any malice in your heart +Were hid against me, now to forgive me frankly. + +BUCKINGHAM. +Sir Thomas Lovell, I as free forgive you +As I would be forgiven. I forgive all. +There cannot be those numberless offences +’Gainst me that I cannot take peace with. No black envy +Shall mark my grave. Commend me to his Grace, +And if he speak of Buckingham, pray tell him +You met him half in heaven. My vows and prayers +Yet are the King’s and, till my soul forsake, +Shall cry for blessings on him. May he live +Longer than I have time to tell his years; +Ever beloved and loving may his rule be; +And when old Time shall lead him to his end, +Goodness and he fill up one monument! + +LOVELL. +To th’ waterside I must conduct your Grace, +Then give my charge up to Sir Nicholas Vaux, +Who undertakes you to your end. + +VAUX. +Prepare there! +The Duke is coming. See the barge be ready, +And fit it with such furniture as suits +The greatness of his person. + +BUCKINGHAM. +Nay, Sir Nicholas, +Let it alone. My state now will but mock me. +When I came hither, I was Lord High Constable +And Duke of Buckingham; now, poor Edward Bohun. +Yet I am richer than my base accusers, +That never knew what truth meant. I now seal it, +And with that blood will make ’em one day groan for’t. +My noble father, Henry of Buckingham, +Who first raised head against usurping Richard, +Flying for succour to his servant Banister, +Being distressed, was by that wretch betrayed, +And, without trial, fell. God’s peace be with him. +Henry the Seventh succeeding, truly pitying +My father’s loss, like a most royal prince, +Restored me to my honours and out of ruins +Made my name once more noble. Now his son, +Henry the Eighth, life, honour, name, and all +That made me happy at one stroke has taken +For ever from the world. I had my trial, +And must needs say a noble one, which makes me +A little happier than my wretched father. +Yet thus far we are one in fortunes: both +Fell by our servants, by those men we loved most— +A most unnatural and faithless service. +Heaven has an end in all; yet, you that hear me, +This from a dying man receive as certain: +Where you are liberal of your loves and counsels +Be sure you be not loose; for those you make friends +And give your hearts to, when they once perceive +The least rub in your fortunes, fall away +Like water from ye, never found again +But where they mean to sink ye. All good people, +Pray for me. I must now forsake ye. The last hour +Of my long weary life is come upon me. +Farewell. And when you would say something that is sad, +Speak how I fell. I have done; and God forgive me. + +[_Exeunt Duke and train._] + +FIRST GENTLEMAN. +O, this is full of pity. Sir, it calls, +I fear, too many curses on their heads +That were the authors. + +SECOND GENTLEMAN. +If the Duke be guiltless, +’Tis full of woe. Yet I can give you inkling +Of an ensuing evil, if it fall, +Greater than this. + +FIRST GENTLEMAN. +Good angels keep it from us! +What may it be? You do not doubt my faith, sir? + +SECOND GENTLEMAN. +This secret is so weighty, ’twill require +A strong faith to conceal it. + +FIRST GENTLEMAN. +Let me have it. +I do not talk much. + +SECOND GENTLEMAN. +I am confident; +You shall, sir. Did you not of late days hear +A buzzing of a separation +Between the King and Katherine? + +FIRST GENTLEMAN. +Yes, but it held not; +For when the King once heard it, out of anger +He sent command to the Lord Mayor straight +To stop the rumour and allay those tongues +That durst disperse it. + +SECOND GENTLEMAN. +But that slander, sir, +Is found a truth now, for it grows again +Fresher than e’er it was, and held for certain +The King will venture at it. Either the Cardinal, +Or some about him near, have, out of malice +To the good Queen, possessed him with a scruple +That will undo her. To confirm this too, +Cardinal Campeius is arrived, and lately, +As all think, for this business. + +FIRST GENTLEMAN. +’Tis the Cardinal; +And merely to revenge him on the Emperor +For not bestowing on him at his asking, +The archbishopric of Toledo this is purposed. + +SECOND GENTLEMAN. +I think you have hit the mark. But is’t not cruel +That she should feel the smart of this? The Cardinal +Will have his will, and she must fall. + +FIRST GENTLEMAN. +’Tis woeful. +We are too open here to argue this. +Let’s think in private more. + +[_Exeunt._] + +SCENE II. An ante-chamber in the palace. + +Enter Lord Chamberlain, reading this letter. + +CHAMBERLAIN. +_My lord, the horses your lordship sent for, with all the care had I +saw well chosen, ridden, and furnished. They were young and handsome, +and of the best breed in the north. When they were ready to set out for +London, a man of my Lord Cardinal’s, by commission and main power, took +’em from me, with this reason: his master would be served before a +subject, if not before the King; which stopped our mouths, sir._ +I fear he will indeed. Well, let him have them. +He will have all, I think. + +Enter to the Lord Chamberlain, the Dukes of Norfolk and Suffolk. + +NORFOLK. +Well met, my Lord Chamberlain. + +CHAMBERLAIN. +Good day to both your Graces. + +SUFFOLK. +How is the King employed? + +CHAMBERLAIN. +I left him private, +Full of sad thoughts and troubles. + +NORFOLK. +What’s the cause? + +CHAMBERLAIN. +It seems the marriage with his brother’s wife +Has crept too near his conscience. + +SUFFOLK. +No, his conscience +Has crept too near another lady. + +NORFOLK. +’Tis so. +This is the Cardinal’s doing, the king-cardinal. +That blind priest, like the eldest son of Fortune, +Turns what he list. The King will know him one day. + +SUFFOLK. +Pray God he do! He’ll never know himself else. + +NORFOLK. +How holily he works in all his business, +And with what zeal! For, now he has cracked the league +Between us and the Emperor, the Queen’s great nephew, +He dives into the King’s soul and there scatters +Dangers, doubts, wringing of the conscience, +Fears and despairs—and all these for his marriage. +And out of all these to restore the King, +He counsels a divorce, a loss of her +That like a jewel has hung twenty years +About his neck, yet never lost her lustre; +Of her that loves him with that excellence +That angels love good men with; even of her +That, when the greatest stroke of fortune falls, +Will bless the King. And is not this course pious? + +CHAMBERLAIN. +Heaven keep me from such counsel! ’Tis most true: +These news are everywhere, every tongue speaks ’em, +And every true heart weeps for’t. All that dare +Look into these affairs see this main end, +The French king’s sister. Heaven will one day open +The King’s eyes, that so long have slept upon +This bold bad man. + +SUFFOLK. +And free us from his slavery. + +NORFOLK. +We had need pray, +And heartily, for our deliverance, +Or this imperious man will work us all +From princes into pages. All men’s honours +Lie like one lump before him, to be fashioned +Into what pitch he please. + +SUFFOLK. +For me, my lords, +I love him not, nor fear him; there’s my creed. +As I am made without him, so I’ll stand, +If the King please. His curses and his blessings +Touch me alike, they’re breath I not believe in. +I knew him, and I know him; so I leave him +To him that made him proud, the Pope. + +NORFOLK. +Let’s in, +And with some other business put the King +From these sad thoughts that work too much upon him. +My lord, you’ll bear us company? + +CHAMBERLAIN. +Excuse me; +The King has sent me otherwhere. Besides, +You’ll find a most unfit time to disturb him. +Health to your lordships. + +NORFOLK. +Thanks, my good Lord Chamberlain. + +[_Exit Lord Chamberlain, and the King draws the curtain and sits +reading pensively._] + +SUFFOLK. +How sad he looks! Sure, he is much afflicted. + +KING. +Who’s there? Ha? + +NORFOLK. +Pray God he be not angry. + +KING. +Who’s there, I say? How dare you thrust yourselves +Into my private meditations? +Who am I? Ha? + +NORFOLK. +A gracious king that pardons all offences +Malice ne’er meant. Our breach of duty this way +Is business of estate, in which we come +To know your royal pleasure. + +KING. +Ye are too bold. +Go to; I’ll make ye know your times of business. +Is this an hour for temporal affairs, ha? + +Enter Wolsey and Campeius with a commission. + +Who’s there? My good Lord Cardinal? O my Wolsey, +The quiet of my wounded conscience, +Thou art a cure fit for a king. [_To Campeius_.] You’re welcome, +Most learned reverend sir, into our kingdom; +Use us and it. [_To Wolsey_.] My good lord, have great care +I be not found a talker. + +WOLSEY. +Sir, you cannot. +I would your Grace would give us but an hour +Of private conference. + +KING. +[_To Norfolk and Suffolk_.] We are busy. Go. + +NORFOLK. +[A_side to Suffolk_.] This priest has no pride in him? + +SUFFOLK. +[_Aside to Norfolk_.] Not to speak of. +I would not be so sick, though, for his place. +But this cannot continue. + +NORFOLK. +[_Aside to Suffolk_.] If it do, +I’ll venture one have-at-him. + +SUFFOLK. +[_Aside to Norfolk_.] I another. + +[_Exeunt Norfolk and Suffolk._] + +WOLSEY. +Your Grace has given a precedent of wisdom +Above all princes in committing freely +Your scruple to the voice of Christendom. +Who can be angry now? What envy reach you? +The Spaniard, tied by blood and favour to her, +Must now confess, if they have any goodness, +The trial just and noble. All the clerks— +I mean the learned ones in Christian kingdoms— +Have their free voices. Rome, the nurse of judgement, +Invited by your noble self, hath sent +One general tongue unto us, this good man, +This just and learned priest, Cardinal Campeius, +Whom once more I present unto your Highness. + +KING. +And once more in mine arms I bid him welcome, +And thank the holy conclave for their loves. +They have sent me such a man I would have wished for. + +CAMPEIUS. +Your Grace must needs deserve all strangers’ loves, +You are so noble. To your Highness’ hand +I tender my commission, by whose virtue, +The court of Rome commanding, you, my Lord +Cardinal of York, are joined with me their servant +In the unpartial judging of this business. + +KING. +Two equal men. The Queen shall be acquainted +Forthwith for what you come. Where’s Gardiner? + +WOLSEY. +I know your Majesty has always loved her +So dear in heart not to deny her that +A woman of less place might ask by law: +Scholars allowed freely to argue for her. + +KING. +Ay, and the best she shall have, and my favour +To him that does best. God forbid else. Cardinal, +Prithee call Gardiner to me, my new secretary. +I find him a fit fellow. + +Enter Gardiner. + +WOLSEY. +[_Aside to Gardiner_.] +Give me your hand. Much joy and favour to you; +You are the King’s now. + +GARDINER. +[_Aside to Wolsey_.] But to be commanded +For ever by your Grace, whose hand has raised me. + +KING. +Come hither, Gardiner. + +[_The King and Gardiner walk and whisper._] + +CAMPEIUS. +My lord of York, was not one Doctor Pace +In this man’s place before him? + +WOLSEY. +Yes, he was. + +CAMPEIUS. +Was he not held a learned man? + +WOLSEY. +Yes, surely. + +CAMPEIUS. +Believe me, there’s an ill opinion spread, then +Even of yourself, Lord Cardinal. + +WOLSEY. +How? Of me? + +CAMPEIUS. +They will not stick to say you envied him +And fearing he would rise—he was so virtuous— +Kept him a foreign man still, which so grieved him +That he ran mad and died. + +WOLSEY. +Heav’n’s peace be with him! +That’s Christian care enough. For living murmurers +There’s places of rebuke. He was a fool, +For he would needs be virtuous. That good fellow, +If I command him, follows my appointment. +I will have none so near else. Learn this, brother: +We live not to be griped by meaner persons. + +KING. +Deliver this with modesty to th’ Queen. + +[_Exit Gardiner._] + +The most convenient place that I can think of +For such receipt of learning is Blackfriars. +There ye shall meet about this weighty business. +My Wolsey, see it furnished. O, my lord, +Would it not grieve an able man to leave +So sweet a bedfellow? But, conscience, conscience! +O, ’tis a tender place, and I must leave her. + +[_Exeunt._] + +SCENE III. An ante-chamber of the Queen’s apartments. + +Enter Anne Bullen and an Old Lady. + +ANNE. +Not for that neither. Here’s the pang that pinches: +His Highness having lived so long with her, and she +So good a lady that no tongue could ever +Pronounce dishonour of her—by my life, +She never knew harm-doing—O, now, after +So many courses of the sun enthroned, +Still growing in a majesty and pomp, the which +To leave a thousandfold more bitter than +’Tis sweet at first t’ acquire—after this process, +To give her the avaunt, it is a pity +Would move a monster. + +OLD LADY. +Hearts of most hard temper +Melt and lament for her. + +ANNE. +O, God’s will! Much better +She ne’er had known pomp; though’t be temporal, +Yet if that quarrel, Fortune, do divorce +It from the bearer, ’tis a sufferance panging +As soul and body’s severing. + +OLD LADY. +Alas, poor lady, +She’s a stranger now again. + +ANNE. +So much the more +Must pity drop upon her. Verily, +I swear, ’tis better to be lowly born +And range with humble livers in content +Than to be perked up in a glist’ring grief, +And wear a golden sorrow. + +OLD LADY. +Our content +Is our best having. + +ANNE. +By my troth and maidenhead, +I would not be a queen. + +OLD LADY. +Beshrew me, I would, +And venture maidenhead for’t; and so would you, +For all this spice of your hypocrisy. +You, that have so fair parts of woman on you, +Have too a woman’s heart, which ever yet +Affected eminence, wealth, sovereignty; +Which, to say sooth, are blessings; and which gifts, +Saving your mincing, the capacity +Of your soft cheveril conscience would receive, +If you might please to stretch it. + +ANNE. +Nay, good troth. + +OLD LADY. +Yes, troth and troth. You would not be a queen? + +ANNE. +No, not for all the riches under heaven. + +OLD LADY. +’Tis strange. A threepence bowed would hire me, +Old as I am, to queen it. But I pray you, +What think you of a duchess? Have you limbs +To bear that load of title? + +ANNE. +No, in truth. + +OLD LADY. +Then you are weakly made. Pluck off a little. +I would not be a young count in your way +For more than blushing comes to. If your back +Cannot vouchsafe this burden, ’tis too weak +Ever to get a boy. + +ANNE. +How you do talk! +I swear again I would not be a queen +For all the world. + +OLD LADY. +In faith, for little England +You’d venture an emballing. I myself +Would for Caernarfonshire, although there longed +No more to th’ crown but that. Lo, who comes here? + +Enter Lord Chamberlain. + +CHAMBERLAIN. +Good morrow, ladies. What were’t worth to know +The secret of your conference? + +ANNE. +My good lord, +Not your demand; it values not your asking. +Our mistress’ sorrows we were pitying. + +CHAMBERLAIN. +It was a gentle business, and becoming +The action of good women. There is hope +All will be well. + +ANNE. +Now, I pray God, amen! + +CHAMBERLAIN. +You bear a gentle mind, and heavenly blessings +Follow such creatures. That you may, fair lady, +Perceive I speak sincerely, and high note’s +Ta’en of your many virtues, the King’s Majesty +Commends his good opinion of you, and +Does purpose honour to you no less flowing +Than Marchioness of Pembroke, to which title +A thousand pound a year annual support +Out of his grace he adds. + +ANNE. +I do not know +What kind of my obedience I should tender. +More than my all is nothing; nor my prayers +Are not words duly hallowed, nor my wishes +More worth than empty vanities; yet prayers and wishes +Are all I can return. Beseech your lordship, +Vouchsafe to speak my thanks and my obedience, +As from a blushing handmaid, to his Highness, +Whose health and royalty I pray for. + +CHAMBERLAIN. +Lady, +I shall not fail t’ approve the fair conceit +The King hath of you. [_Aside_.] I have perused her well. +Beauty and honour in her are so mingled +That they have caught the King; and who knows yet +But from this lady may proceed a gem +To lighten all this isle? I’ll to the King, +And say I spoke with you. + +ANNE. +My honoured lord. + +[_Exit Lord Chamberlain._] + +OLD LADY. +Why, this it is: see, see! +I have been begging sixteen years in court, +Am yet a courtier beggarly, nor could +Come pat betwixt too early and too late +For any suit of pounds; and you, O fate! +A very fresh fish here—fie, fie, fie upon +This compelled fortune!—have your mouth filled up +Before you open it. + +ANNE. +This is strange to me. + +OLD LADY. +How tastes it? Is it bitter? Forty pence, no. +There was a lady once—’tis an old story— +That would not be a queen, that would she not, +For all the mud in Egypt. Have you heard it? + +ANNE. +Come, you are pleasant. + +OLD LADY. +With your theme, I could +O’ermount the lark. The Marchioness of Pembroke? +A thousand pounds a year for pure respect? +No other obligation? By my life, +That promises more thousands; honour’s train +Is longer than his foreskirt. By this time +I know your back will bear a duchess. Say, +Are you not stronger than you were? + +ANNE. +Good lady, +Make yourself mirth with your particular fancy, +And leave me out on’t. Would I had no being +If this salute my blood a jot. It faints me +To think what follows. +The Queen is comfortless, and we forgetful +In our long absence. Pray do not deliver +What here you’ve heard to her. + +OLD LADY. +What do you think me? + +[_Exeunt._] + +SCENE IV. A hall in Blackfriars. + +Trumpets, sennet, and cornets. Enter two Vergers, with short silver +wands; next them, two Scribes, in the habit of doctors; after them, the +Archbishop of Canterbury alone; after him, the Bishops of Lincoln, Ely, +Rochester, and Saint Asaph; next them, with some small distance, +follows a Gentleman bearing the purse with the great seal, and a +cardinal’s hat; then two Priests, bearing each a silver cross; then a +Gentleman Usher bare-headed, accompanied with a Sergeant-at-arms +bearing a silver mace; then two Gentlemen, bearing two great silver +pillars; after them, side by side, the two Cardinals; two Noblemen with +the sword and mace. The King takes place under the cloth of state. The +two Cardinals sit under him as judges. The Queen takes place some +distance from the King. The Bishops place themselves on each side the +court, in manner of consistory; below them the Scribes. The Lords sit +next the Bishops. The rest of the Attendants stand in convenient order +about the stage. + +WOLSEY. +Whilst our commission from Rome is read, +Let silence be commanded. + +KING. +What’s the need? +It hath already publicly been read, +And on all sides th’ authority allowed; +You may then spare that time. + +WOLSEY. +Be’t so. Proceed. + +SCRIBE. +Say, “Henry King of England, come into the court.” + +CRIER. +Henry King of England, come into the court. + +KING. +Here. + +SCRIBE. +Say, “Katherine Queen of England, come into the court.” + +CRIER. +Katherine Queen of England, come into the court. + +[_The Queen makes no answer, rises out of her chair, goes about the +court, comes to the King, and kneels at his feet; then speaks._] + +QUEEN KATHERINE. +Sir, I desire you do me right and justice, +And to bestow your pity on me; for +I am a most poor woman and a stranger, +Born out of your dominions, having here +No judge indifferent nor no more assurance +Of equal friendship and proceeding. Alas, sir, +In what have I offended you? What cause +Hath my behaviour given to your displeasure +That thus you should proceed to put me off +And take your good grace from me? Heaven witness +I have been to you a true and humble wife, +At all times to your will conformable, +Ever in fear to kindle your dislike, +Yea, subject to your countenance, glad or sorry +As I saw it inclined. When was the hour +I ever contradicted your desire, +Or made it not mine too? Or which of your friends +Have I not strove to love, although I knew +He were mine enemy? What friend of mine +That had to him derived your anger did I +Continue in my liking? Nay, gave notice +He was from thence discharged? Sir, call to mind +That I have been your wife in this obedience +Upward of twenty years, and have been blessed +With many children by you. If, in the course +And process of this time, you can report, +And prove it too, against mine honour aught, +My bond to wedlock, or my love and duty +Against your sacred person, in God’s name, +Turn me away and let the foul’st contempt +Shut door upon me, and so give me up +To the sharp’st kind of justice. Please you, sir, +The King your father was reputed for +A prince most prudent, of an excellent +And unmatched wit and judgement. Ferdinand, +My father, King of Spain, was reckoned one +The wisest prince that there had reigned by many +A year before. It is not to be questioned +That they had gathered a wise council to them +Of every realm, that did debate this business, +Who deemed our marriage lawful. Wherefore I humbly +Beseech you, sir, to spare me till I may +Be by my friends in Spain advised, whose counsel +I will implore. If not, i’ th’ name of God, +Your pleasure be fulfilled. + +WOLSEY. +You have here, lady, +And of your choice, these reverend fathers, men +Of singular integrity and learning, +Yea, the elect o’ th’ land, who are assembled +To plead your cause. It shall be therefore bootless +That longer you desire the court, as well +For your own quiet as to rectify +What is unsettled in the King. + +CAMPEIUS. +His Grace +Hath spoken well and justly. Therefore, madam, +It’s fit this royal session do proceed, +And that without delay their arguments +Be now produced and heard. + +QUEEN KATHERINE. +Lord Cardinal, +To you I speak. + +WOLSEY. +Your pleasure, madam. + +QUEEN KATHERINE. +Sir, +I am about to weep; but, thinking that +We are a queen, or long have dreamed so, certain +The daughter of a king, my drops of tears +I’ll turn to sparks of fire. + +WOLSEY. +Be patient yet. + +QUEEN KATHERINE. +I will, when you are humble; nay, before, +Or God will punish me. I do believe, +Induced by potent circumstances, that +You are mine enemy, and make my challenge +You shall not be my judge; for it is you +Have blown this coal betwixt my lord and me, +Which God’s dew quench! Therefore I say again, +I utterly abhor, yea, from my soul +Refuse you for my judge, whom, yet once more, +I hold my most malicious foe and think not +At all a friend to truth. + +WOLSEY. +I do profess +You speak not like yourself, who ever yet +Have stood to charity and displayed th’ effects +Of disposition gentle and of wisdom +O’ertopping woman’s power. Madam, you do me wrong. +I have no spleen against you, nor injustice +For you or any. How far I have proceeded, +Or how far further shall, is warranted +By a commission from the Consistory, +Yea, the whole Consistory of Rome. You charge me +That I have “blown this coal”. I do deny it. +The King is present. If it be known to him +That I gainsay my deed, how may he wound, +And worthily, my falsehood, yea, as much +As you have done my truth. If he know +That I am free of your report, he knows +I am not of your wrong. Therefore in him +It lies to cure me, and the cure is to +Remove these thoughts from you, the which before +His Highness shall speak in, I do beseech +You, gracious madam, to unthink your speaking +And to say so no more. + +QUEEN KATHERINE. +My lord, my lord, +I am a simple woman, much too weak +T’ oppose your cunning. You’re meek and humble-mouthed; +You sign your place and calling, in full seeming, +With meekness and humility; but your heart +Is crammed with arrogancy, spleen, and pride. +You have, by fortune and his Highness’ favours, +Gone slightly o’er low steps, and now are mounted +Where powers are your retainers, and your words, +Domestics to you, serve your will as ’t please +Yourself pronounce their office. I must tell you, +You tender more your person’s honour than +Your high profession spiritual; that again +I do refuse you for my judge; and here, +Before you all, appeal unto the Pope, +To bring my whole cause ’fore his Holiness, +And to be judged by him. + +[_She curtsies to the King and offers to depart._] + +CAMPEIUS. +The Queen is obstinate, +Stubborn to justice, apt to accuse it, and +Disdainful to be tried by’t. ’Tis not well. +She’s going away. -London. A gallery in the palace - -Enter GARDINER, BISHOP OF WINCHESTER, a PAGE with a torch before him, -met by SIR THOMAS LOVELL - - GARDINER. It's one o'clock, boy, is't not? - BOY. It hath struck. - GARDINER. These should be hours for necessities, - Not for delights; times to repair our nature - With comforting repose, and not for us - To waste these times. Good hour of night, Sir Thomas! - Whither so late? - LOVELL. Came you from the King, my lord? - GARDINER. I did, Sir Thomas, and left him at primero - With the Duke of Suffolk. - LOVELL. I must to him too, - Before he go to bed. I'll take my leave. - GARDINER. Not yet, Sir Thomas Lovell. What's the matter? - It seems you are in haste. An if there be - No great offence belongs to't, give your friend - Some touch of your late business. Affairs that walk- - As they say spirits do-at midnight, have - In them a wilder nature than the business - That seeks despatch by day. - LOVELL. My lord, I love you; - And durst commend a secret to your ear - Much weightier than this work. The Queen's in labour, - They say in great extremity, and fear'd - She'll with the labour end. - GARDINER. The fruit she goes with - I pray for heartily, that it may find - Good time, and live; but for the stock, Sir Thomas, - I wish it grubb'd up now. - LOVELL. Methinks I could - Cry thee amen; and yet my conscience says - She's a good creature, and, sweet lady, does - Deserve our better wishes. - GARDINER. But, sir, sir- - Hear me, Sir Thomas. Y'are a gentleman - Of mine own way; I know you wise, religious; - And, let me tell you, it will ne'er be well- - 'Twill not, Sir Thomas Lovell, take't of me- - Till Cranmer, Cromwell, her two hands, and she, - Sleep in their graves. - LOVELL. Now, sir, you speak of two - The most remark'd i' th' kingdom. As for Cromwell, - Beside that of the Jewel House, is made Master - O' th' Rolls, and the King's secretary; further, sir, - Stands in the gap and trade of moe preferments, - With which the time will load him. Th' Archbishop - Is the King's hand and tongue, and who dare speak - One syllable against him? - GARDINER. Yes, yes, Sir Thomas, - There are that dare; and I myself have ventur'd - To speak my mind of him; and indeed this day, - Sir-I may tell it you-I think I have - Incens'd the lords o' th' Council, that he is- - For so I know he is, they know he is- - A most arch heretic, a pestilence - That does infect the land; with which they moved - Have broken with the King, who hath so far - Given ear to our complaint-of his great grace - And princely care, foreseeing those fell mischiefs - Our reasons laid before him-hath commanded - To-morrow morning to the Council board - He be convented. He's a rank weed, Sir Thomas, - And we must root him out. From your affairs - I hinder you too long-good night, Sir Thomas. - LOVELL. Many good nights, my lord; I rest your servant. - Exeunt GARDINER and PAGE - - Enter the KING and the DUKE OF SUFFOLK - - KING. Charles, I will play no more to-night; - My mind's not on't; you are too hard for me. - SUFFOLK. Sir, I did never win of you before. - KING. But little, Charles; - Nor shall not, when my fancy's on my play. - Now, Lovell, from the Queen what is the news? - LOVELL. I could not personally deliver to her - What you commanded me, but by her woman - I sent your message; who return'd her thanks - In the great'st humbleness, and desir'd your Highness - Most heartily to pray for her. - KING. What say'st thou, ha? - To pray for her? What, is she crying out? - LOVELL. So said her woman; and that her suff'rance made - Almost each pang a death. - KING. Alas, good lady! - SUFFOLK. God safely quit her of her burden, and - With gentle travail, to the gladding of - Your Highness with an heir! - KING. 'Tis midnight, Charles; - Prithee to bed; and in thy pray'rs remember - Th' estate of my poor queen. Leave me alone, - For I must think of that which company - Will not be friendly to. - SUFFOLK. I wish your Highness - A quiet night, and my good mistress will - Remember in my prayers. - KING. Charles, good night. Exit SUFFOLK - - Enter SIR ANTHONY DENNY - - Well, sir, what follows? - DENNY. Sir, I have brought my lord the Archbishop, - As you commanded me. - KING. Ha! Canterbury? - DENNY. Ay, my good lord. - KING. 'Tis true. Where is he, Denny? - DENNY. He attends your Highness' pleasure. - KING. Bring him to us. Exit DENNY - LOVELL. [Aside] This is about that which the bishop spake. - I am happily come hither. - - Re-enter DENNY, With CRANMER - - KING. Avoid the gallery. [LOVELL seems to stay] - Ha! I have said. Be gone. - What! Exeunt LOVELL and DENNY - CRANMER. [Aside] I am fearful-wherefore frowns he thus? - 'Tis his aspect of terror. All's not well. - KING. How now, my lord? You do desire to know - Wherefore I sent for you. - CRANMER. [Kneeling] It is my duty - T'attend your Highness' pleasure. - KING. Pray you, arise, - My good and gracious Lord of Canterbury. - Come, you and I must walk a turn together; - I have news to tell you; come, come, me your hand. - Ah, my good lord, I grieve at what I speak, - And am right sorry to repeat what follows. - I have, and most unwillingly, of late - Heard many grievous-I do say, my lord, - Grievous-complaints of you; which, being consider'd, - Have mov'd us and our Council that you shall - This morning come before us; where I know - You cannot with such freedom purge yourself - But that, till further trial in those charges - Which will require your answer, you must take - Your patience to you and be well contented - To make your house our Tow'r. You a brother of us, - It fits we thus proceed, or else no witness - Would come against you. - CRANMER. I humbly thank your Highness - And am right glad to catch this good occasion - Most throughly to be winnowed where my chaff - And corn shall fly asunder; for I know - There's none stands under more calumnious tongues - Than I myself, poor man. - KING. Stand up, good Canterbury; - Thy truth and thy integrity is rooted - In us, thy friend. Give me thy hand, stand up; - Prithee let's walk. Now, by my holidame, - What manner of man are you? My lord, I look'd - You would have given me your petition that - I should have ta'en some pains to bring together - Yourself and your accusers, and to have heard you - Without indurance further. - CRANMER. Most dread liege, - The good I stand on is my truth and honesty; - If they shall fail, I with mine enemies - Will triumph o'er my person; which I weigh not, - Being of those virtues vacant. I fear nothing - What can be said against me. - KING. Know you not - How your state stands i' th' world, with the whole world? - Your enemies are many, and not small; their practices - Must bear the same proportion; and not ever - The justice and the truth o' th' question carries - The due o' th' verdict with it; at what ease - Might corrupt minds procure knaves as corrupt - To swear against you? Such things have been done. - You are potently oppos'd, and with a malice - Of as great size. Ween you of better luck, - I mean in perjur'd witness, than your Master, - Whose minister you are, whiles here He liv'd - Upon this naughty earth? Go to, go to; - You take a precipice for no leap of danger, - And woo your own destruction. - CRANMER. God and your Majesty - Protect mine innocence, or I fall into - The trap is laid for me! - KING. Be of good cheer; - They shall no more prevail than we give way to. - Keep comfort to you, and this morning see - You do appear before them; if they shall chance, - In charging you with matters, to commit you, - The best persuasions to the contrary - Fail not to use, and with what vehemency - Th' occasion shall instruct you. If entreaties - Will render you no remedy, this ring - Deliver them, and your appeal to us - There make before them. Look, the good man weeps! - He's honest, on mine honour. God's blest Mother! - I swear he is true-hearted, and a soul - None better in my kingdom. Get you gone, - And do as I have bid you. - Exit CRANMER - He has strangled his language in his tears. - - Enter OLD LADY - - GENTLEMAN. [Within] Come back; what mean you? - OLD LADY. I'll not come back; the tidings that I bring - Will make my boldness manners. Now, good angels - Fly o'er thy royal head, and shade thy person - Under their blessed wings! - KING. Now, by thy looks - I guess thy message. Is the Queen deliver'd? - Say ay, and of a boy. - OLD LADY. Ay, ay, my liege; - And of a lovely boy. The God of Heaven - Both now and ever bless her! 'Tis a girl, - Promises boys hereafter. Sir, your queen - Desires your visitation, and to be - Acquainted with this stranger; 'tis as like you - As cherry is to cherry. - KING. Lovell! - - Enter LOVELL - - LOVELL. Sir? - KING. Give her an hundred marks. I'll to the Queen. Exit - OLD LADY. An hundred marks? By this light, I'll ha' more! - An ordinary groom is for such payment. - I will have more, or scold it out of him. - Said I for this the girl was like to him! I'll - Have more, or else unsay't; and now, while 'tis hot, - I'll put it to the issue. Exeunt - -ACT V. SCENE 2. - -Lobby before the Council Chamber - -Enter CRANMER, ARCHBISHOP OF CANTERBURY - - CRANMER. I hope I am not too late; and yet the gentleman - That was sent to me from the Council pray'd me - To make great haste. All fast? What means this? Ho! - Who waits there? Sure you know me? - - Enter KEEPER - - KEEPER. Yes, my lord; - But yet I cannot help you. - CRANMER. Why? - KEEPER. Your Grace must wait till you be call'd for. - - Enter DOCTOR BUTTS - - CRANMER. So. - BUTTS. [Aside] This is a piece of malice. I am glad - I came this way so happily; the King - Shall understand it presently. Exit - CRANMER. [Aside] 'Tis Butts, - The King's physician; as he pass'd along, - How earnestly he cast his eyes upon me! - Pray heaven he sound not my disgrace! For certain, - This is of purpose laid by some that hate me- - God turn their hearts! I never sought their malice- - To quench mine honour; they would shame to make me - Wait else at door, a fellow councillor, - 'Mong boys, grooms, and lackeys. But their pleasures - Must be fulfill'd, and I attend with patience. - - Enter the KING and BUTTS at window above - - BUTTS. I'll show your Grace the strangest sight- - KING. What's that, Butts? - BUTTS. I think your Highness saw this many a day. - KING. Body a me, where is it? - BUTTS. There my lord: - The high promotion of his Grace of Canterbury; - Who holds his state at door, 'mongst pursuivants, - Pages, and footboys. - KING. Ha, 'tis he indeed. - Is this the honour they do one another? - 'Tis well there's one above 'em yet. I had thought - They had parted so much honesty among 'em- - At least good manners-as not thus to suffer - A man of his place, and so near our favour, - To dance attendance on their lordships' pleasures, - And at the door too, like a post with packets. - By holy Mary, Butts, there's knavery! - Let 'em alone, and draw the curtain close; - We shall hear more anon. Exeunt - -ACT V. SCENE 3. - -The Council Chamber - -A Council table brought in, with chairs and stools, and placed under -the state. Enter LORD CHANCELLOR, places himself at the upper end of -the table on the left band, a seat being left void above him, as for -Canterbury's seat. DUKE OF SUFFOLK, DUKE OF NORFOLK, SURREY, LORD -CHAMBERLAIN, GARDINER, seat themselves in order on each side; CROMWELL -at lower end, as secretary. KEEPER at the door - - CHANCELLOR. Speak to the business, master secretary; - Why are we met in council? - CROMWELL. Please your honours, - The chief cause concerns his Grace of Canterbury. - GARDINER. Has he had knowledge of it? - CROMWELL. Yes. - NORFOLK. Who waits there? - KEEPER. Without, my noble lords? - GARDINER. Yes. - KEEPER. My Lord Archbishop; - And has done half an hour, to know your pleasures. - CHANCELLOR. Let him come in. - KEEPER. Your Grace may enter now. - - CRANMER approaches the Council table - - CHANCELLOR. My good Lord Archbishop, I am very sorry - To sit here at this present, and behold - That chair stand empty; but we all are men, - In our own natures frail and capable - Of our flesh; few are angels; out of which frailty - And want of wisdom, you, that best should teach us, - Have misdemean'd yourself, and not a little, - Toward the King first, then his laws, in filling - The whole realm by your teaching and your chaplains- - For so we are inform'd-with new opinions, - Divers and dangerous; which are heresies, - And, not reform'd, may prove pernicious. - GARDINER. Which reformation must be sudden too, - My noble lords; for those that tame wild horses - Pace 'em not in their hands to make 'em gentle, - But stop their mouth with stubborn bits and spur 'em - Till they obey the manage. If we suffer, - Out of our easiness and childish pity - To one man's honour, this contagious sickness, - Farewell all physic; and what follows then? - Commotions, uproars, with a general taint - Of the whole state; as of late days our neighbours, - The upper Germany, can dearly witness, - Yet freshly pitied in our memories. - CRANMER. My good lords, hitherto in all the progress - Both of my life and office, I have labour'd, - And with no little study, that my teaching - And the strong course of my authority - Might go one way, and safely; and the end - Was ever to do well. Nor is there living- - I speak it with a single heart, my lords- - A man that more detests, more stirs against, - Both in his private conscience and his place, - Defacers of a public peace than I do. - Pray heaven the King may never find a heart - With less allegiance in it! Men that make - Envy and crooked malice nourishment - Dare bite the best. I do beseech your lordships - That, in this case of justice, my accusers, - Be what they will, may stand forth face to face - And freely urge against me. - SUFFOLK. Nay, my lord, - That cannot be; you are a councillor, - And by that virtue no man dare accuse you. - GARDINER. My lord, because we have business of more moment, - We will be short with you. 'Tis his Highness' pleasure - And our consent, for better trial of you, - From hence you be committed to the Tower; - Where, being but a private man again, - You shall know many dare accuse you boldly, - More than, I fear, you are provided for. - CRANMER. Ah, my good Lord of Winchester, I thank you; - You are always my good friend; if your will pass, - I shall both find your lordship judge and juror, - You are so merciful. I see your end- - 'Tis my undoing. Love and meekness, lord, - Become a churchman better than ambition; - Win straying souls with modesty again, - Cast none away. That I shall clear myself, - Lay all the weight ye can upon my patience, - I make as little doubt as you do conscience - In doing daily wrongs. I could say more, - But reverence to your calling makes me modest. - GARDINER. My lord, my lord, you are a sectary; - That's the plain truth. Your painted gloss discovers, - To men that understand you, words and weakness. - CROMWELL. My Lord of Winchester, y'are a little, - By your good favour, too sharp; men so noble, - However faulty, yet should find respect - For what they have been; 'tis a cruelty - To load a falling man. - GARDINER. Good Master Secretary, - I cry your honour mercy; you may, worst - Of all this table, say so. - CROMWELL. Why, my lord? - GARDINER. Do not I know you for a favourer - Of this new sect? Ye are not sound. - CROMWELL. Not sound? - GARDINER. Not sound, I say. - CROMWELL. Would you were half so honest! - Men's prayers then would seek you, not their fears. - GARDINER. I shall remember this bold language. - CROMWELL. Do. - Remember your bold life too. - CHANCELLOR. This is too much; - Forbear, for shame, my lords. - GARDINER. I have done. - CROMWELL. And I. - CHANCELLOR. Then thus for you, my lord: it stands agreed, - I take it, by all voices, that forthwith - You be convey'd to th' Tower a prisoner; - There to remain till the King's further pleasure - Be known unto us. Are you all agreed, lords? - ALL. We are. - CRANMER. Is there no other way of mercy, - But I must needs to th' Tower, my lords? - GARDINER. What other - Would you expect? You are strangely troublesome. - Let some o' th' guard be ready there. - - Enter the guard - - CRANMER. For me? - Must I go like a traitor thither? - GARDINER. Receive him, - And see him safe i' th' Tower. - CRANMER. Stay, good my lords, - I have a little yet to say. Look there, my lords; - By virtue of that ring I take my cause - Out of the gripes of cruel men and give it - To a most noble judge, the King my master. - CHAMBERLAIN. This is the King's ring. - SURREY. 'Tis no counterfeit. - SUFFOLK. 'Tis the right ring, by heav'n. I told ye all, - When we first put this dangerous stone a-rolling, - 'Twould fall upon ourselves. - NORFOLK. Do you think, my lords, - The King will suffer but the little finger - Of this man to be vex'd? - CHAMBERLAIN. 'Tis now too certain; - How much more is his life in value with him! - Would I were fairly out on't! - CROMWELL. My mind gave me, - In seeking tales and informations - Against this man-whose honesty the devil - And his disciples only envy at- - Ye blew the fire that burns ye. Now have at ye! - - Enter the KING frowning on them; he takes his seat - - GARDINER. Dread sovereign, how much are we bound to heaven - In daily thanks, that gave us such a prince; - Not only good and wise but most religious; - One that in all obedience makes the church - The chief aim of his honour and, to strengthen - That holy duty, out of dear respect, - His royal self in judgment comes to hear - The cause betwixt her and this great offender. - KING. You were ever good at sudden commendations, - Bishop of Winchester. But know I come not - To hear such flattery now, and in my presence - They are too thin and bare to hide offences. - To me you cannot reach you play the spaniel, - And think with wagging of your tongue to win me; - But whatsoe'er thou tak'st me for, I'm sure - Thou hast a cruel nature and a bloody. - [To CRANMER] Good man, sit down. Now let me see the proudest - He that dares most but wag his finger at thee. - By all that's holy, he had better starve - Than but once think this place becomes thee not. - SURREY. May it please your Grace- - KING. No, sir, it does not please me. - I had thought I had had men of some understanding - And wisdom of my Council; but I find none. - Was it discretion, lords, to let this man, - This good man-few of you deserve that title- - This honest man, wait like a lousy footboy - At chamber door? and one as great as you are? - Why, what a shame was this! Did my commission - Bid ye so far forget yourselves? I gave ye - Power as he was a councillor to try him, - Not as a groom. There's some of ye, I see, - More out of malice than integrity, - Would try him to the utmost, had ye mean; - Which ye shall never have while I live. - CHANCELLOR. Thus far, - My most dread sovereign, may it like your Grace - To let my tongue excuse all. What was purpos'd - concerning his imprisonment was rather- - If there be faith in men-meant for his trial - And fair purgation to the world, than malice, - I'm sure, in me. - KING. Well, well, my lords, respect him; - Take him, and use him well, he's worthy of it. - I will say thus much for him: if a prince - May be beholding to a subject, - Am for his love and service so to him. - Make me no more ado, but all embrace him; - Be friends, for shame, my lords! My Lord of Canterbury, - I have a suit which you must not deny me: - That is, a fair young maid that yet wants baptism; - You must be godfather, and answer for her. - CRANMER. The greatest monarch now alive may glory - In such an honour; how may I deserve it, - That am a poor and humble subject to you? - KING. Come, come, my lord, you'd spare your spoons. You - shall have - Two noble partners with you: the old Duchess of Norfolk - And Lady Marquis Dorset. Will these please you? - Once more, my Lord of Winchester, I charge you, - Embrace and love this man. - GARDINER. With a true heart - And brother-love I do it. - CRANMER. And let heaven - Witness how dear I hold this confirmation. - KING. Good man, those joyful tears show thy true heart. - The common voice, I see, is verified - Of thee, which says thus: 'Do my Lord of Canterbury - A shrewd turn and he's your friend for ever.' - Come, lords, we trifle time away; I long - To have this young one made a Christian. - As I have made ye one, lords, one remain; - So I grow stronger, you more honour gain. Exeunt - -ACT V. SCENE 4. - -The palace yard - -Noise and tumult within. Enter PORTER and his MAN - - PORTER. You'll leave your noise anon, ye rascals. Do you - take the court for Paris garden? Ye rude slaves, leave your - gaping. - [Within: Good master porter, I belong to th' larder.] - PORTER. Belong to th' gallows, and be hang'd, ye rogue! Is - this a place to roar in? Fetch me a dozen crab-tree staves, - and strong ones; these are but switches to 'em. I'll scratch - your heads. You must be seeing christenings? Do you look - for ale and cakes here, you rude rascals? - MAN. Pray, sir, be patient; 'tis as much impossible, - Unless we sweep 'em from the door with cannons, - To scatter 'em as 'tis to make 'em sleep - On May-day morning; which will never be. - We may as well push against Paul's as stir 'em. - PORTER. How got they in, and be hang'd? - MAN. Alas, I know not: how gets the tide in? - As much as one sound cudgel of four foot- - You see the poor remainder-could distribute, - I made no spare, sir. - PORTER. You did nothing, sir. - MAN. I am not Samson, nor Sir Guy, nor Colbrand, - To mow 'em down before me; but if I spar'd any - That had a head to hit, either young or old, - He or she, cuckold or cuckold-maker, - Let me ne'er hope to see a chine again; - And that I would not for a cow, God save her! - [ Within: Do you hear, master porter?] - PORTER. I shall be with you presently, good master puppy. - Keep the door close, sirrah. - MAN. What would you have me do? - PORTER. What should you do, but knock 'em down by th' - dozens? Is this Moorfields to muster in? Or have we some - strange Indian with the great tool come to court, the - women so besiege us? Bless me, what a fry of fornication - is at door! On my Christian conscience, this one christening - will beget a thousand: here will be father, godfather, - and all together. - MAN. The spoons will be the bigger, sir. There is a fellow - somewhat near the door, he should be a brazier by his - face, for, o' my conscience, twenty of the dog-days now - reign in's nose; all that stand about him are under the line, - they need no other penance. That fire-drake did I hit three - times on the head, and three times was his nose discharged - against me; he stands there like a mortar-piece, to blow us. - There was a haberdasher's wife of small wit near him, that - rail'd upon me till her pink'd porringer fell off her head, - for kindling such a combustion in the state. I miss'd the - meteor once, and hit that woman, who cried out 'Clubs!' - when I might see from far some forty truncheoners draw - to her succour, which were the hope o' th' Strand, where - she was quartered. They fell on; I made good my place. - At length they came to th' broomstaff to me; I defied 'em - still; when suddenly a file of boys behind 'em, loose shot, - deliver'd such a show'r of pebbles that I was fain to draw - mine honour in and let 'em win the work: the devil was - amongst 'em, I think surely. - PORTER. These are the youths that thunder at a playhouse - and fight for bitten apples; that no audience but the tribulation - of Tower-hill or the limbs of Limehouse, their dear - brothers, are able to endure. I have some of 'em in Limbo - Patrum, and there they are like to dance these three days; - besides the running banquet of two beadles that is to come. - - Enter the LORD CHAMBERLAIN - - CHAMBERLAIN. Mercy o' me, what a multitude are here! - They grow still too; from all parts they are coming, - As if we kept a fair here! Where are these porters, - These lazy knaves? Y'have made a fine hand, fellows. - There's a trim rabble let in: are all these - Your faithful friends o' th' suburbs? We shall have - Great store of room, no doubt, left for the ladies, - When they pass back from the christening. - PORTER. An't please your honour, - We are but men; and what so many may do, - Not being torn a pieces, we have done. - An army cannot rule 'em. - CHAMBERLAIN. As I live, - If the King blame me for't, I'll lay ye an - By th' heels, and suddenly; and on your heads - Clap round fines for neglect. Y'are lazy knaves; - And here ye lie baiting of bombards, when - Ye should do service. Hark! the trumpets sound; - Th' are come already from the christening. - Go break among the press and find a way out - To let the troops pass fairly, or I'll find - A Marshalsea shall hold ye play these two months. - PORTER. Make way there for the Princess. - MAN. You great fellow, - Stand close up, or I'll make your head ache. - PORTER. You i' th' camlet, get up o' th' rail; - I'll peck you o'er the pales else. Exeunt - -ACT V. SCENE 5. - -The palace - -Enter TRUMPETS, sounding; then two ALDERMEN, LORD MAYOR, GARTER, -CRANMER, DUKE OF NORFOLK, with his marshal's staff, DUKE OF SUFFOLK, -two Noblemen bearing great standing-bowls for the christening gifts; -then four Noblemen bearing a canopy, under which the DUCHESS OF -NORFOLK, godmother, bearing the CHILD richly habited in a mantle, etc., -train borne by a LADY; then follows the MARCHIONESS DORSET, the other -godmother, and LADIES. The troop pass once about the stage, and GARTER -speaks - - GARTER. Heaven, from thy endless goodness, send prosperous life, long - and ever-happy, to the high and mighty Princess of England, - Elizabeth! - - Flourish. Enter KING and guard - - CRANMER. [Kneeling] And to your royal Grace and the - good Queen! - My noble partners and myself thus pray: - All comfort, joy, in this most gracious lady, - Heaven ever laid up to make parents happy, - May hourly fall upon ye! - KING. Thank you, good Lord Archbishop. - What is her name? - CRANMER. Elizabeth. - KING. Stand up, lord. [The KING kisses the child] - With this kiss take my blessing: God protect thee! - Into whose hand I give thy life. - CRANMER. Amen. - KING. My noble gossips, y'have been too prodigal; - I thank ye heartily. So shall this lady, - When she has so much English. - CRANMER. Let me speak, sir, - For heaven now bids me; and the words I utter - Let none think flattery, for they'll find 'em truth. - This royal infant-heaven still move about her!- - Though in her cradle, yet now promises - Upon this land a thousand blessings, - Which time shall bring to ripeness. She shall be- - But few now living can behold that goodness- - A pattern to all princes living with her, - And all that shall succeed. Saba was never - More covetous of wisdom and fair virtue - Than this pure soul shall be. All princely graces - That mould up such a mighty piece as this is, - With all the virtues that attend the good, - Shall still be doubled on her. Truth shall nurse her, - Holy and heavenly thoughts still counsel her; - She shall be lov'd and fear'd. Her own shall bless her: - Her foes shake like a field of beaten corn, - And hang their heads with sorrow. Good grows with her; - In her days every man shall eat in safety - Under his own vine what he plants, and sing - The merry songs of peace to all his neighbours. - God shall be truly known; and those about her - From her shall read the perfect ways of honour, - And by those claim their greatness, not by blood. - Nor shall this peace sleep with her; but as when - The bird of wonder dies, the maiden phoenix - Her ashes new create another heir - As great in admiration as herself, - So shall she leave her blessedness to one- - When heaven shall call her from this cloud of darkness- - Who from the sacred ashes of her honour - Shall star-like rise, as great in fame as she was, - And so stand fix'd. Peace, plenty, love, truth, terror, - That were the servants to this chosen infant, - Shall then be his, and like a vine grow to him; - Wherever the bright sun of heaven shall shine, - His honour and the greatness of his name - Shall be, and make new nations; he shall flourish, - And like a mountain cedar reach his branches - To all the plains about him; our children's children - Shall see this and bless heaven. - KING. Thou speakest wonders. - CRANMER. She shall be, to the happiness of England, - An aged princess; many days shall see her, - And yet no day without a deed to crown it. - Would I had known no more! But she must die- - She must, the saints must have her-yet a virgin; - A most unspotted lily shall she pass - To th' ground, and all the world shall mourn her. - KING. O Lord Archbishop, - Thou hast made me now a man; never before - This happy child did I get anything. - This oracle of comfort has so pleas'd me - That when I am in heaven I shall desire - To see what this child does, and praise my Maker. - I thank ye all. To you, my good Lord Mayor, - And you, good brethren, I am much beholding; - I have receiv'd much honour by your presence, - And ye shall find me thankful. Lead the way, lords; - Ye must all see the Queen, and she must thank ye, - She will be sick else. This day, no man think - Has business at his house; for all shall stay. - This little one shall make it holiday. Exeunt - -KING_HENRY_VIII|EPILOGUE THE EPILOGUE. - - 'Tis ten to one this play can never please - All that are here. Some come to take their ease - And sleep an act or two; but those, we fear, - W'have frighted with our trumpets; so, 'tis clear, - They'll say 'tis nought; others to hear the city - Abus'd extremely, and to cry 'That's witty!' - Which we have not done neither; that, I fear, - All the expected good w'are like to hear - For this play at this time is only in - The merciful construction of good women; - For such a one we show'd 'em. If they smile - And say 'twill do, I know within a while - All the best men are ours; for 'tis ill hap - If they hold when their ladies bid 'em clap. +KING. +Call her again. + +CRIER. +Katherine, Queen of England, come into the court. + +GENTLEMAN USHER. +Madam, you are called back. + +QUEEN KATHERINE. +What need you note it? Pray you keep your way. +When you are called, return. Now, the Lord help! +They vex me past my patience. Pray you, pass on. +I will not tarry; no, nor ever more +Upon this business my appearance make +In any of their courts. + +[_Exeunt Queen and her Attendants._] + +KING. +Go thy ways, Kate. +That man i’ th’ world who shall report he has +A better wife, let him in naught be trusted, +For speaking false in that. Thou art, alone— +If thy rare qualities, sweet gentleness, +Thy meekness saint-like, wife-like government, +Obeying in commanding, and thy parts +Sovereign and pious else, could speak thee out— +The queen of earthly queens. She’s noble born, +And like her true nobility she has +Carried herself towards me. + +WOLSEY. +Most gracious sir, +In humblest manner I require your Highness +That it shall please you to declare, in hearing +Of all these ears—for where I am robbed and bound, +There must I be unloosed, although not there +At once and fully satisfied—whether ever I +Did broach this business to your Highness, or +Laid any scruple in your way which might +Induce you to the question on’t? or ever +Have to you, but with thanks to God for such +A royal lady, spake one the least word that might +Be to the prejudice of her present state, +Or touch of her good person? + +KING. +My Lord Cardinal, +I do excuse you; yea, upon mine honour, +I free you from’t. You are not to be taught +That you have many enemies that know not +Why they are so, but, like to village curs, +Bark when their fellows do. By some of these +The Queen is put in anger. You’re excused. +But will you be more justified? You ever +Have wished the sleeping of this business, never desired +It to be stirred, but oft have hindered, oft, +The passages made toward it. On my honour, +I speak my good Lord Cardinal to this point +And thus far clear him. Now, what moved me to’t, +I will be bold with time and your attention. +Then mark th’ inducement. Thus it came; give heed to’t: +My conscience first received a tenderness, +Scruple, and prick on certain speeches uttered +By th’ Bishop of Bayonne, then French ambassador, +Who had been hither sent on the debating +A marriage ’twixt the Duke of Orleans and +Our daughter Mary. I’ th’ progress of this business, +Ere a determinate resolution, he, +I mean the Bishop, did require a respite, +Wherein he might the King his lord advertise +Whether our daughter were legitimate, +Respecting this our marriage with the dowager, +Sometimes our brother’s wife. This respite shook +The bosom of my conscience, entered me, +Yea, with a splitting power, and made to tremble +The region of my breast; which forced such way +That many mazed considerings did throng +And pressed in with this caution. First, methought +I stood not in the smile of heaven, who had +Commanded nature that my lady’s womb, +If it conceived a male child by me, should +Do no more offices of life to’t than +The grave does to th’ dead; for her male issue +Or died where they were made, or shortly after +This world had aired them. Hence I took a thought +This was a judgement on me, that my kingdom, +Well worthy the best heir o’ th’ world, should not +Be gladded in’t by me. Then follows that +I weighed the danger which my realms stood in +By this my issue’s fail, and that gave to me +Many a groaning throe. Thus hulling in +The wild sea of my conscience, I did steer +Toward this remedy whereupon we are +Now present here together. That’s to say, +I meant to rectify my conscience, which +I then did feel full sick, and yet not well, +By all the reverend fathers of the land +And doctors learned. First I began in private +With you, my Lord of Lincoln. You remember +How under my oppression I did reek +When I first moved you. + +LINCOLN. +Very well, my liege. + +KING. +I have spoke long. Be pleased yourself to say +How far you satisfied me. + +LINCOLN. +So please your Highness, +The question did at first so stagger me, +Bearing a state of mighty moment in’t +And consequence of dread, that I committed +The daring’st counsel which I had to doubt +And did entreat your Highness to this course +Which you are running here. + +KING. +I then moved you, +My Lord of Canterbury, and got your leave +To make this present summons. Unsolicited +I left no reverend person in this court, +But by particular consent proceeded +Under your hands and seals. Therefore go on, +For no dislike i’ th’ world against the person +Of the good queen, but the sharp thorny points +Of my alleged reasons, drives this forward. +Prove but our marriage lawful, by my life +And kingly dignity, we are contented +To wear our mortal state to come with her, +Katherine, our Queen, before the primest creature +That’s paragoned o’ th’ world. + +CAMPEIUS. +So please your Highness, +The Queen being absent, ’tis a needful fitness +That we adjourn this court till further day. +Meanwhile must be an earnest motion +Made to the Queen to call back her appeal +She intends unto his Holiness. + +KING. +[_Aside_.] I may perceive +These cardinals trifle with me. I abhor +This dilatory sloth and tricks of Rome. +My learned and well-beloved servant, Cranmer, +Prithee return. With thy approach, I know, +My comfort comes along.—Break up the court! +I say, set on. + +[_Exeunt in manner as they entered._] + + + + +ACT III + +SCENE I. London. The Queen’s apartments. + + +Enter Queen and her Women, as at work. + +QUEEN KATHERINE. +Take thy lute, wench. My soul grows sad with troubles. +Sing, and disperse ’em, if thou canst. Leave working. + +WOMAN +[_sings song._] + +Orpheus with his lute made trees +And the mountain tops that freeze + Bow themselves when he did sing. +To his music plants and flowers +Ever sprung, as sun and showers + There had made a lasting spring. + + +Everything that heard him play, +Even the billows of the sea, + Hung their heads and then lay by. +In sweet music is such art, +Killing care and grief of heart + Fall asleep or, hearing, die. + +Enter a Gentleman. + +QUEEN KATHERINE. +How now? + +GENTLEMAN. +An’t please your Grace, the two great Cardinals +Wait in the presence. + +QUEEN KATHERINE. +Would they speak with me? + +GENTLEMAN. +They willed me say so, madam. + +QUEEN KATHERINE. +Pray their Graces +To come near. + +[_Exit Gentleman._] + +What can be their business +With me, a poor weak woman, fallen from favour? +I do not like their coming. Now I think on’t, +They should be good men, their affairs as righteous. +But all hoods make not monks. + +Enter the two Cardinals, Wolsey and Campeius. + +WOLSEY. +Peace to your Highness. + +QUEEN KATHERINE. +Your Graces find me here part of housewife; +I would be all, against the worst may happen. +What are your pleasures with me, reverend lords? + +WOLSEY. +May it please you, noble madam, to withdraw +Into your private chamber, we shall give you +The full cause of our coming. + +QUEEN KATHERINE. +Speak it here. +There’s nothing I have done yet, o’ my conscience, +Deserves a corner. Would all other women +Could speak this with as free a soul as I do! +My lords, I care not, so much I am happy +Above a number, if my actions +Were tried by every tongue, every eye saw ’em, +Envy and base opinion set against ’em, +I know my life so even. If your business +Seek me out, and that way I am wife in, +Out with it boldly. Truth loves open dealing. + +WOLSEY. +_Tanta est erga te mentis integritas, regina serenissima_— + +QUEEN KATHERINE. +O, good my lord, no Latin. +I am not such a truant since my coming +As not to know the language I have lived in. +A strange tongue makes my cause more strange, suspicious. +Pray speak in English. Here are some will thank you, +If you speak truth, for their poor mistress’ sake. +Believe me, she has had much wrong. Lord Cardinal, +The willing’st sin I ever yet committed +May be absolved in English. + +WOLSEY. +Noble lady, +I am sorry my integrity should breed— +And service to his Majesty and you— +So deep suspicion, where all faith was meant. +We come not by the way of accusation, +To taint that honour every good tongue blesses, +Nor to betray you any way to sorrow— +You have too much, good lady—but to know +How you stand minded in the weighty difference +Between the King and you, and to deliver, +Like free and honest men, our just opinions +And comforts to your cause. + +CAMPEIUS. +Most honoured madam, +My Lord of York, out of his noble nature, +Zeal, and obedience he still bore your Grace, +Forgetting, like a good man, your late censure +Both of his truth and him—which was too far— +Offers, as I do, in a sign of peace, +His service and his counsel. + +QUEEN KATHERINE. +[_Aside_.] To betray me. +My lords, I thank you both for your good wills. +Ye speak like honest men; pray God ye prove so. +But how to make ye suddenly an answer +In such a point of weight, so near mine honour— +More near my life, I fear—with my weak wit, +And to such men of gravity and learning, +In truth I know not. I was set at work +Among my maids, full little, God knows, looking +Either for such men or such business. +For her sake that I have been—for I feel +The last fit of my greatness—good your Graces, +Let me have time and counsel for my cause. +Alas, I am a woman friendless, hopeless. + +WOLSEY. +Madam, you wrong the King’s love with these fears; +Your hopes and friends are infinite. + +QUEEN KATHERINE. +In England +But little for my profit. Can you think, lords, +That any Englishman dare give me counsel? +Or be a known friend, ’gainst his Highness’ pleasure, +Though he be grown so desperate to be honest, +And live a subject? Nay, forsooth, my friends, +They that much weigh out my afflictions, +They that my trust must grow to, live not here. +They are, as all my other comforts, far hence +In mine own country, lords. + +CAMPEIUS. +I would your Grace +Would leave your griefs and take my counsel. + +QUEEN KATHERINE. +How, sir? + +CAMPEIUS. +Put your main cause into the King’s protection. +He’s loving and most gracious. ’Twill be much +Both for your honour better and your cause, +For if the trial of the law o’ertake ye, +You’ll part away disgraced. + +WOLSEY. +He tells you rightly. + +QUEEN KATHERINE. +Ye tell me what ye wish for both: my ruin. +Is this your Christian counsel? Out upon ye! +Heaven is above all yet; there sits a judge +That no king can corrupt. + +CAMPEIUS. +Your rage mistakes us. + +QUEEN KATHERINE. +The more shame for ye! Holy men I thought ye, +Upon my soul, two reverend cardinal virtues; +But cardinal sins and hollow hearts I fear ye. +Mend ’em, for shame, my lords. Is this your comfort, +The cordial that ye bring a wretched lady, +A woman lost among ye, laughed at, scorned? +I will not wish ye half my miseries; +I have more charity. But say I warned ye. +Take heed, for heaven’s sake, take heed, lest at once +The burden of my sorrows fall upon ye. + +WOLSEY. +Madam, this is a mere distraction. +You turn the good we offer into envy. + +QUEEN KATHERINE. +Ye turn me into nothing. Woe upon ye +And all such false professors! Would you have me— +If you have any justice, any pity, +If ye be anything but churchmen’s habits— +Put my sick cause into his hands that hates me? +Alas, ’has banished me his bed already, +His love, too, long ago. I am old, my lords, +And all the fellowship I hold now with him +Is only my obedience. What can happen +To me above this wretchedness? All your studies +Make me a curse like this. + +CAMPEIUS. +Your fears are worse. + +QUEEN KATHERINE. +Have I lived thus long—let me speak myself, +Since virtue finds no friends—a wife, a true one— +A woman, I dare say without vainglory, +Never yet branded with suspicion— +Have I with all my full affections +Still met the King, loved him next heav’n, obeyed him, +Been, out of fondness, superstitious to him, +Almost forgot my prayers to content him, +And am I thus rewarded? ’Tis not well, lords. +Bring me a constant woman to her husband, +One that ne’er dreamed a joy beyond his pleasure, +And to that woman, when she has done most, +Yet will I add an honour: a great patience. + +WOLSEY. +Madam, you wander from the good we aim at. + +QUEEN KATHERINE. +My lord, I dare not make myself so guilty +To give up willingly that noble title +Your master wed me to. Nothing but death +Shall e’er divorce my dignities. + +WOLSEY. +Pray hear me. + +QUEEN KATHERINE. +Would I had never trod this English earth +Or felt the flatteries that grow upon it! +Ye have angels’ faces, but heaven knows your hearts. +What will become of me now, wretched lady? +I am the most unhappy woman living. +[_To her Women_.] Alas, poor wenches, where are now your fortunes? +Shipwrecked upon a kingdom where no pity, +No friends, no hope, no kindred weep for me, +Almost no grave allowed me, like the lily +That once was mistress of the field and flourished, +I’ll hang my head and perish. + +WOLSEY. +If your Grace +Could but be brought to know our ends are honest, +You’d feel more comfort. Why should we, good lady, +Upon what cause, wrong you? Alas, our places, +The way of our profession, is against it. +We are to cure such sorrows, not to sow ’em. +For goodness’ sake, consider what you do, +How you may hurt yourself, ay, utterly +Grow from the King’s acquaintance, by this carriage. +The hearts of princes kiss obedience, +So much they love it, but to stubborn spirits +They swell and grow as terrible as storms. +I know you have a gentle, noble temper, +A soul as even as a calm. Pray think us +Those we profess: peacemakers, friends, and servants. + +CAMPEIUS. +Madam, you’ll find it so. You wrong your virtues +With these weak women’s fears. A noble spirit, +As yours was put into you, ever casts +Such doubts, as false coin, from it. The King loves you; +Beware you lose it not. For us, if you please +To trust us in your business, we are ready +To use our utmost studies in your service. + +QUEEN KATHERINE. +Do what ye will, my lords, and pray forgive me +If I have used myself unmannerly. +You know I am a woman, lacking wit +To make a seemly answer to such persons. +Pray do my service to his Majesty. +He has my heart yet, and shall have my prayers +While I shall have my life. Come, reverend fathers, +Bestow your counsels on me. She now begs +That little thought, when she set footing here, +She should have bought her dignities so dear. + +[_Exeunt._] + +SCENE II. Ante-chamber to the King’s apartment. + +Enter the Duke of Norfolk, Duke of Suffolk, Lord Surrey and Lord +Chamberlain. + +NORFOLK. +If you will now unite in your complaints +And force them with a constancy, the Cardinal +Cannot stand under them. If you omit +The offer of this time, I cannot promise +But that you shall sustain more new disgraces +With these you bear already. + +SURREY. +I am joyful +To meet the least occasion that may give me +Remembrance of my father-in-law the Duke, +To be revenged on him. + +SUFFOLK. +Which of the peers +Have uncontemned gone by him, or at least +Strangely neglected? When did he regard +The stamp of nobleness in any person +Out of himself? + +CHAMBERLAIN. +My lords, you speak your pleasures. +What he deserves of you and me I know; +What we can do to him—though now the time +Gives way to us—I much fear. If you cannot +Bar his access to th’ King, never attempt +Anything on him, for he hath a witchcraft +Over the King in ’s tongue. + +NORFOLK. +O, fear him not. +His spell in that is out. The King hath found +Matter against him that for ever mars +The honey of his language. No, he’s settled, +Not to come off, in his displeasure. + +SURREY. +Sir, +I should be glad to hear such news as this +Once every hour. + +NORFOLK. +Believe it, this is true. +In the divorce his contrary proceedings +Are all unfolded, wherein he appears +As I would wish mine enemy. + +SURREY. +How came +His practices to light? + +SUFFOLK. +Most strangely. + +SURREY. +O, how, how? + +SUFFOLK. +The Cardinal’s letters to the Pope miscarried, +And came to th’ eye o’ the King, wherein was read +How that the Cardinal did entreat his Holiness +To stay the judgement o’ th’ divorce; for if +It did take place, “I do” quoth he “perceive +My king is tangled in affection to +A creature of the Queen’s, Lady Anne Bullen.” + +SURREY. +Has the King this? + +SUFFOLK. +Believe it. + +SURREY. +Will this work? + +CHAMBERLAIN. +The King in this perceives him how he coasts +And hedges his own way. But in this point +All his tricks founder, and he brings his physic +After his patient’s death. The King already +Hath married the fair lady. + +SURREY. +Would he had! + +SUFFOLK. +May you be happy in your wish, my lord, +For I profess you have it. + +SURREY. +Now, all my joy +Trace the conjunction! + +SUFFOLK. +My amen to’t! + +NORFOLK. +All men’s. + +SUFFOLK. +There’s order given for her coronation. +Marry, this is yet but young, and may be left +To some ears unrecounted. But, my lords, +She is a gallant creature, and complete +In mind and feature. I persuade me, from her +Will fall some blessing to this land which shall +In it be memorized. + +SURREY. +But will the King +Digest this letter of the Cardinal’s? +The Lord forbid! + +NORFOLK. +Marry, amen! + +SUFFOLK. +No, no. +There be more wasps that buzz about his nose +Will make this sting the sooner. Cardinal Campeius +Is stolen away to Rome; hath ta’en no leave; +Has left the cause o’ th’ King unhandled, and +Is posted, as the agent of our Cardinal, +To second all his plot. I do assure you +The King cried “Ha!” at this. + +CHAMBERLAIN. +Now, God incense him, +And let him cry “Ha!” louder. + +NORFOLK. +But, my lord, +When returns Cranmer? + +SUFFOLK. +He is returned in his opinions, which +Have satisfied the King for his divorce, +Together with all famous colleges +Almost in Christendom. Shortly, I believe, +His second marriage shall be published, and +Her coronation. Katherine no more +Shall be called Queen, but Princess Dowager +And widow to Prince Arthur. + +NORFOLK. +This same Cranmer’s +A worthy fellow, and hath ta’en much pain +In the King’s business. + +SUFFOLK. +He has, and we shall see him +For it an archbishop. + +NORFOLK. +So I hear. + +SUFFOLK. +’Tis so. + +Enter Wolsey and Cromwell. + +The Cardinal! + +NORFOLK. +Observe, observe; he’s moody. + +WOLSEY. +The packet, Cromwell, +Gave’t you the King? + +CROMWELL. +To his own hand, in ’s bedchamber. + +WOLSEY. +Looked he o’ th’ inside of the paper? + +CROMWELL. +Presently +He did unseal them, and the first he viewed, +He did it with a serious mind; a heed +Was in his countenance. You he bade +Attend him here this morning. + +WOLSEY. +Is he ready +To come abroad? + +CROMWELL. +I think by this he is. + +WOLSEY. +Leave me a while. + +[_Exit Cromwell._] + +[_Aside_.] It shall be to the Duchess of Alençon, +The French king’s sister; he shall marry her. +Anne Bullen? No; I’ll no Anne Bullens for him. +There’s more in’t than fair visage. Bullen? +No, we’ll no Bullens. Speedily I wish +To hear from Rome. The Marchioness of Pembroke! + +NORFOLK. +He’s discontented. + +SUFFOLK. +Maybe he hears the King +Does whet his anger to him. + +SURREY. +Sharp enough, +Lord, for thy justice! + +WOLSEY. +[_Aside_.] The late queen’s gentlewoman, a knight’s daughter, +To be her mistress’ mistress? The Queen’s Queen? +This candle burns not clear. ’Tis I must snuff it; +Then out it goes. What though I know her virtuous +And well deserving? Yet I know her for +A spleeny Lutheran, and not wholesome to +Our cause, that she should lie i’ th’ bosom of +Our hard-ruled King. Again, there is sprung up +An heretic, an arch-one, Cranmer, one +Hath crawled into the favour of the King +And is his oracle. + +NORFOLK. +He is vexed at something. + +Enter King, reading a schedule, and Lovell. + +SURREY. +I would ’twere something that would fret the string, +The master-cord on ’s heart. + +SUFFOLK. +The King, the King! + +KING. +What piles of wealth hath he accumulated +To his own portion! And what expense by th’ hour +Seems to flow from him! How, i’ th’ name of thrift +Does he rake this together? Now, my lords, +Saw you the Cardinal? + +NORFOLK. +My lord, we have +Stood here observing him. Some strange commotion +Is in his brain. He bites his lip, and starts, +Stops on a sudden, looks upon the ground, +Then lays his finger on his temple; straight +Springs out into fast gait; then stops again, +Strikes his breast hard, and anon he casts +His eye against the moon. In most strange postures +We have seen him set himself. + +KING. +It may well be +There is a mutiny in ’s mind. This morning +Papers of state he sent me to peruse, +As I required; and wot you what I found +There—on my conscience, put unwittingly? +Forsooth, an inventory, thus importing +The several parcels of his plate, his treasure, +Rich stuffs and ornaments of household, which +I find at such proud rate that it outspeaks +Possession of a subject. + +NORFOLK. +It’s heaven’s will! +Some spirit put this paper in the packet +To bless your eye withal. + +KING. +If we did think +His contemplation were above the earth +And fixed on spiritual object, he should still +Dwell in his musings, but I am afraid +His thinkings are below the moon, not worth +His serious considering. + +[_King takes his seat; whispers Lovell, who goes to the Cardinal._] + +WOLSEY. +Heaven forgive me! +Ever God bless your Highness. + +KING. +Good my lord, +You are full of heavenly stuff, and bear the inventory +Of your best graces in your mind, the which +You were now running o’er. You have scarce time +To steal from spiritual leisure a brief span +To keep your earthly audit. Sure, in that +I deem you an ill husband, and am glad +To have you therein my companion. + +WOLSEY. +Sir, +For holy offices I have a time; a time +To think upon the part of business which +I bear i’ th’ state; and Nature does require +Her times of preservation, which perforce +I, her frail son, amongst my brethren mortal, +Must give my tendance to. + +KING. +You have said well. + +WOLSEY. +And ever may your Highness yoke together, +As I will lend you cause, my doing well +With my well saying. + +KING. +’Tis well said again, +And ’tis a kind of good deed to say well. +And yet words are no deeds. My father loved you; +He said he did, and with his deed did crown +His word upon you. Since I had my office, +I have kept you next my heart, have not alone +Employed you where high profits might come home, +But pared my present havings to bestow +My bounties upon you. + +WOLSEY. +[_Aside_.] What should this mean? + +SURREY. +[_Aside_.] The Lord increase this business! + +KING. +Have I not made you +The prime man of the state? I pray you tell me, +If what I now pronounce you have found true, +And, if you may confess it, say withal +If you are bound to us or no. What say you? + +WOLSEY. +My sovereign, I confess your royal graces, +Showered on me daily, have been more than could +My studied purposes requite, which went +Beyond all man’s endeavours. My endeavours +Have ever come too short of my desires, +Yet filed with my abilities. Mine own ends +Have been mine so that evermore they pointed +To th’ good of your most sacred person and +The profit of the state. For your great graces +Heaped upon me, poor undeserver, I +Can nothing render but allegiant thanks, +My prayers to heaven for you, my loyalty, +Which ever has and ever shall be growing, +Till death, that winter, kill it. + +KING. +Fairly answered. +A loyal and obedient subject is +Therein illustrated. The honour of it +Does pay the act of it, as i’ th’ contrary, +The foulness is the punishment. I presume +That, as my hand has opened bounty to you, +My heart dropped love, my power rained honour, more +On you than any, so your hand and heart, +Your brain, and every function of your power, +Should, notwithstanding that your bond of duty, +As ’twere in love’s particular, be more +To me, your friend, than any. + +WOLSEY. +I do profess +That for your Highness’ good I ever laboured +More than mine own, that am, have, and will be. +Though all the world should crack their duty to you +And throw it from their soul, though perils did +Abound as thick as thought could make ’em, and +Appear in forms more horrid—yet my duty, +As doth a rock against the chiding flood, +Should the approach of this wild river break, +And stand unshaken yours. + +KING. +’Tis nobly spoken. +Take notice, lords: he has a loyal breast, +For you have seen him open’t. + +[_Giving him papers._] + +Read o’er this, +And after, this; and then to breakfast with +What appetite you have. + +[_Exit King, frowning upon the Cardinal; the nobles throng after him, +smiling and whispering._] + +WOLSEY. +What should this mean? +What sudden anger’s this? How have I reaped it? +He parted frowning from me, as if ruin +Leaped from his eyes. So looks the chafed lion +Upon the daring huntsman that has galled him, +Then makes him nothing. I must read this paper— +I fear, the story of his anger. ’Tis so. +This paper has undone me. ’Tis th’ account +Of all that world of wealth I have drawn together +For mine own ends—indeed, to gain the popedom +And fee my friends in Rome. O negligence, +Fit for a fool to fall by! What cross devil +Made me put this main secret in the packet +I sent the King? Is there no way to cure this? +No new device to beat this from his brains? +I know ’twill stir him strongly; yet I know +A way, if it take right, in spite of fortune, +Will bring me off again. What’s this? “To th’ Pope”? +The letter, as I live, with all the business +I writ to ’s Holiness. Nay then, farewell! +I have touched the highest point of all my greatness, +And from that full meridian of my glory +I haste now to my setting. I shall fall +Like a bright exhalation in the evening, +And no man see me more. + +Enter to Wolsey, the Dukes of Norfolk and Suffolk, the Earl of Surrey, +and the Lord Chamberlain. + +NORFOLK. +Hear the King’s pleasure, Cardinal, who commands you +To render up the great seal presently +Into our hands, and to confine yourself +To Asher House, my Lord of Winchester’s, +Till you hear further from his Highness. + +WOLSEY. +Stay. +Where’s your commission, lords? Words cannot carry +Authority so weighty. + +SUFFOLK. +Who dares cross ’em, +Bearing the King’s will from his mouth expressly? + +WOLSEY. +Till I find more than will or words to do it— +I mean your malice—know, officious lords, +I dare and must deny it. Now I feel +Of what coarse metal ye are moulded, envy! +How eagerly ye follow my disgraces, +As if it fed ye, and how sleek and wanton +Ye appear in everything may bring my ruin! +Follow your envious courses, men of malice; +You have Christian warrant for ’em, and no doubt +In time will find their fit rewards. That seal +You ask with such a violence, the King, +Mine and your master, with his own hand gave me; +Bade me enjoy it, with the place and honours, +During my life; and, to confirm his goodness, +Tied it by letters-patents. Now, who’ll take it? + +SURREY. +The King that gave it. + +WOLSEY. +It must be himself, then. + +SURREY. +Thou art a proud traitor, priest. + +WOLSEY. +Proud lord, thou liest. +Within these forty hours Surrey durst better +Have burnt that tongue than said so. + +SURREY. +Thy ambition, +Thou scarlet sin, robbed this bewailing land +Of noble Buckingham, my father-in-law. +The heads of all thy brother cardinals, +With thee and all thy best parts bound together, +Weighed not a hair of his. Plague of your policy! +You sent me Deputy for Ireland, +Far from his succour, from the King, from all +That might have mercy on the fault thou gav’st him, +Whilst your great goodness, out of holy pity, +Absolved him with an axe. + +WOLSEY. +This, and all else +This talking lord can lay upon my credit, +I answer is most false. The Duke by law +Found his deserts. How innocent I was +From any private malice in his end, +His noble jury and foul cause can witness. +If I loved many words, lord, I should tell you +You have as little honesty as honour, +That in the way of loyalty and truth +Toward the King, my ever royal master, +Dare mate a sounder man than Surrey can be, +And all that love his follies. + +SURREY. +By my soul, +Your long coat, priest, protects you; thou shouldst feel +My sword i’ th’ lifeblood of thee else. My lords, +Can ye endure to hear this arrogance? +And from this fellow? If we live thus tamely, +To be thus jaded by a piece of scarlet, +Farewell, nobility. Let his Grace go forward +And dare us with his cap, like larks. + +WOLSEY. +All goodness +Is poison to thy stomach. + +SURREY. +Yes, that goodness +Of gleaning all the land’s wealth into one, +Into your own hands, Cardinal, by extortion; +The goodness of your intercepted packets +You writ to the Pope against the King. Your goodness, +Since you provoke me, shall be most notorious. +My Lord of Norfolk, as you are truly noble, +As you respect the common good, the state +Of our despised nobility, our issues, +Who, if he live, will scarce be gentlemen, +Produce the grand sum of his sins, the articles +Collected from his life. I’ll startle you +Worse than the sacring bell when the brown wench +Lay kissing in your arms, Lord Cardinal. + +WOLSEY. +How much, methinks, I could despise this man, +But that I am bound in charity against it! + +NORFOLK. +Those articles, my lord, are in the King’s hand; +But thus much, they are foul ones. + +WOLSEY. +So much fairer +And spotless shall mine innocence arise +When the King knows my truth. + +SURREY. +This cannot save you. +I thank my memory I yet remember +Some of these articles, and out they shall. +Now, if you can blush and cry “Guilty,” Cardinal, +You’ll show a little honesty. + +WOLSEY. +Speak on, sir; +I dare your worst objections. If I blush, +It is to see a nobleman want manners. + +SURREY. +I had rather want those than my head. Have at you! +First, that without the King’s assent or knowledge, +You wrought to be a legate, by which power +You maimed the jurisdiction of all bishops. + +NORFOLK. +Then, that in all you writ to Rome, or else +To foreign princes, “_ego et rex meus_” +Was still inscribed, in which you brought the King +To be your servant. + +SUFFOLK. +Then, that without the knowledge +Either of King or Council, when you went +Ambassador to the Emperor, you made bold +To carry into Flanders the great seal. + +SURREY. +Item, you sent a large commission +To Gregory de Cassado, to conclude, +Without the King’s will or the state’s allowance, +A league between his Highness and Ferrara. + +SUFFOLK. +That out of mere ambition you have caused +Your holy hat to be stamped on the King’s coin. + +SURREY. +Then, that you have sent innumerable substance— +By what means got, I leave to your own conscience— +To furnish Rome and to prepare the ways +You have for dignities, to the mere undoing +Of all the kingdom. Many more there are, +Which, since they are of you, and odious, +I will not taint my mouth with. + +CHAMBERLAIN. +O my lord, +Press not a falling man too far! ’Tis virtue. +His faults lie open to the laws; let them, +Not you, correct him. My heart weeps to see him +So little of his great self. + +SURREY. +I forgive him. + +SUFFOLK. +Lord Cardinal, the King’s further pleasure is, +Because all those things you have done of late +By your power legative within this kingdom +Fall into th’ compass of a _praemunire_, +That therefore such a writ be sued against you +To forfeit all your goods, lands, tenements, +Chattels, and whatsoever, and to be +Out of the King’s protection. This is my charge. + +NORFOLK. +And so we’ll leave you to your meditations +How to live better. For your stubborn answer +About the giving back the great seal to us, +The King shall know it and, no doubt, shall thank you. +So fare you well, my little good Lord Cardinal. + +[_Exeunt all but Wolsey._] + +WOLSEY. +So farewell to the little good you bear me. +Farewell? A long farewell to all my greatness! +This is the state of man: today he puts forth +The tender leaves of hopes; tomorrow blossoms, +And bears his blushing honours thick upon him; +The third day comes a frost, a killing frost, +And when he thinks, good easy man, full surely +His greatness is a-ripening, nips his root, +And then he falls, as I do. I have ventured, +Like little wanton boys that swim on bladders, +This many summers in a sea of glory, +But far beyond my depth. My high-blown pride +At length broke under me and now has left me, +Weary and old with service, to the mercy +Of a rude stream that must for ever hide me. +Vain pomp and glory of this world, I hate ye! +I feel my heart new opened. O, how wretched +Is that poor man that hangs on princes’ favours! +There is betwixt that smile we would aspire to, +That sweet aspect of princes, and their ruin, +More pangs and fears than wars or women have; +And when he falls, he falls like Lucifer, +Never to hope again. + +Enter Cromwell, standing amazed. + +Why, how now, Cromwell? + +CROMWELL. +I have no power to speak, sir. + +WOLSEY. +What, amazed +At my misfortunes? Can thy spirit wonder +A great man should decline? Nay, an you weep, +I am fallen indeed. + +CROMWELL. +How does your Grace? + +WOLSEY. +Why, well. +Never so truly happy, my good Cromwell. +I know myself now, and I feel within me +A peace above all earthly dignities, +A still and quiet conscience. The King has cured me, +I humbly thank his Grace, and from these shoulders, +These ruined pillars, out of pity, taken +A load would sink a navy: too much honour. +O, ’tis a burden, Cromwell, ’tis a burden +Too heavy for a man that hopes for heaven. + +CROMWELL. +I am glad your Grace has made that right use of it. + +WOLSEY. +I hope I have. I am able now, methinks, +Out of a fortitude of soul I feel, +To endure more miseries and greater far +Than my weak-hearted enemies dare offer. +What news abroad? + +CROMWELL. +The heaviest and the worst +Is your displeasure with the King. + +WOLSEY. +God bless him. + +CROMWELL. +The next is that Sir Thomas More is chosen +Lord Chancellor in your place. + +WOLSEY. +That’s somewhat sudden. +But he’s a learned man. May he continue +Long in his Highness’ favour, and do justice +For truth’s sake and his conscience, that his bones, +When he has run his course and sleeps in blessings, +May have a tomb of orphans’ tears wept on him. +What more? + +CROMWELL. +That Cranmer is returned with welcome, +Installed Lord Archbishop of Canterbury. + +WOLSEY. +That’s news indeed. + +CROMWELL. +Last, that the Lady Anne, +Whom the King hath in secrecy long married, +This day was viewed in open as his Queen, +Going to chapel, and the voice is now +Only about her coronation. + +WOLSEY. +There was the weight that pulled me down. +O Cromwell, +The King has gone beyond me. All my glories +In that one woman I have lost for ever. +No sun shall ever usher forth mine honours, +Or gild again the noble troops that waited +Upon my smiles. Go, get thee from me, Cromwell. +I am a poor fallen man, unworthy now +To be thy lord and master. Seek the King; +That sun, I pray, may never set! I have told him +What and how true thou art. He will advance thee; +Some little memory of me will stir him— +I know his noble nature—not to let +Thy hopeful service perish too. Good Cromwell, +Neglect him not; make use now, and provide +For thine own future safety. + +CROMWELL. +O my lord, +Must I then leave you? Must I needs forgo +So good, so noble, and so true a master? +Bear witness, all that have not hearts of iron, +With what a sorrow Cromwell leaves his lord. +The King shall have my service, but my prayers +For ever and for ever shall be yours. + +WOLSEY. +Cromwell, I did not think to shed a tear +In all my miseries, but thou hast forced me, +Out of thy honest truth, to play the woman. +Let’s dry our eyes, and thus far hear me, Cromwell, +And when I am forgotten, as I shall be, +And sleep in dull cold marble, where no mention +Of me more must be heard of, say, I taught thee; +Say Wolsey, that once trod the ways of glory +And sounded all the depths and shoals of honour, +Found thee a way, out of his wreck, to rise in, +A sure and safe one, though thy master missed it. +Mark but my fall and that that ruined me. +Cromwell, I charge thee, fling away ambition! +By that sin fell the angels; how can man, then, +The image of his maker, hope to win by it? +Love thyself last; cherish those hearts that hate thee. +Corruption wins not more than honesty. +Still in thy right hand carry gentle peace +To silence envious tongues. Be just, and fear not. +Let all the ends thou aim’st at be thy country’s, +Thy God’s, and truth’s. Then if thou fall’st, O Cromwell, +Thou fall’st a blessed martyr! +Serve the King. And, prithee, lead me in. +There take an inventory of all I have. +To the last penny; ’tis the King’s. My robe +And my integrity to heaven is all +I dare now call mine own. O Cromwell, Cromwell, +Had I but served my God with half the zeal +I served my king, He would not in mine age +Have left me naked to mine enemies. + +CROMWELL. +Good sir, have patience. + +WOLSEY. +So I have. Farewell, +The hopes of court! My hopes in heaven do dwell. + +[_Exeunt._] + + + + +ACT IV + +SCENE I. A street in Westminster. + + +Enter two Gentlemen, meeting one another. + +FIRST GENTLEMAN. +You’re well met once again. + +SECOND GENTLEMAN. +So are you. + +FIRST GENTLEMAN. +You come to take your stand here and behold +The Lady Anne pass from her coronation? + +SECOND GENTLEMAN. +’Tis all my business. At our last encounter, +The Duke of Buckingham came from his trial. + +FIRST GENTLEMAN. +’Tis very true. But that time offered sorrow, +This, general joy. + +SECOND GENTLEMAN. +’Tis well. The citizens, +I am sure, have shown at full their royal minds, +As, let ’em have their rights, they are ever forward +In celebration of this day with shows, +Pageants, and sights of honour. + +FIRST GENTLEMAN. +Never greater, +Nor, I’ll assure you, better taken, sir. + +SECOND GENTLEMAN. +May I be bold to ask what that contains, +That paper in your hand? + +FIRST GENTLEMAN. +Yes, ’tis the list +Of those that claim their offices this day +By custom of the coronation. +The Duke of Suffolk is the first, and claims +To be High Steward; next, the Duke of Norfolk, +He to be Earl Marshal. You may read the rest. + +SECOND GENTLEMAN. +I thank you, sir. Had I not known those customs, +I should have been beholding to your paper. +But I beseech you, what’s become of Katherine, +The Princess Dowager? How goes her business? + +FIRST GENTLEMAN. +That I can tell you too. The Archbishop +Of Canterbury, accompanied with other +Learned and reverend fathers of his order, +Held a late court at Dunstable, six miles off +From Ampthill where the Princess lay; to which +She was often cited by them, but appeared not; +And, to be short, for not appearance and +The King’s late scruple, by the main assent +Of all these learned men she was divorced, +And the late marriage made of none effect; +Since which she was removed to Kimbolton, +Where she remains now sick. + +SECOND GENTLEMAN. +Alas, good lady! + +[_Trumpets._] + +The trumpets sound. Stand close. The Queen is coming. + +_The order of the coronation_. + + +_1. A lively flourish of trumpets. +2. Then, two Judges. +3. Lord Chancellor, with purse and mace before him. +4. Choristers, singing. Music. +5. Mayor of London, bearing the mace. Then Garter, in his coat of arms, +and on his head he wore a gilt copper crown. +6. Marquess Dorset, bearing a sceptre of gold, on his head a +demi-coronal of gold. With him, the Earl of Surrey, bearing the rod of +silver with the dove, crowned with an earl’s coronet. Collars of S’s. +7. Duke of Suffolk, in his robe of estate, his coronet on his head, +bearing a long white wand, as High Steward. With him, the Duke of +Norfolk, with the rod of marshalship, a coronet on his head. Collars of +S’s. +8. A canopy, borne by four of the Cinque Ports; under it, the Queen in +her robe, in her hair, richly adorned with pearl, crowned. On each side +her, the Bishops of London and Winchester. +9. The old Duchess of Norfolk, in a coronal of gold wrought with +flowers, bearing the Queen’s train. +10. Certain Ladies or Countesses, with plain circlets of gold without +flowers._ + +[_Exeunt, first passing over the stage in order and state, and then a +great flourish of trumpets._] + +SECOND GENTLEMAN. +A royal train, believe me. These I know. +Who’s that that bears the sceptre? + +FIRST GENTLEMAN. +Marquess Dorset, +And that the Earl of Surrey with the rod. + +SECOND GENTLEMAN. +A bold brave gentleman. That should be +The Duke of Suffolk. + +FIRST GENTLEMAN. +’Tis the same: High Steward. + +SECOND GENTLEMAN. +And that my Lord of Norfolk? + +FIRST GENTLEMAN. +Yes. + +SECOND GENTLEMAN. +[_Sees the Queen_.] Heaven bless thee! +Thou hast the sweetest face I ever looked on. +Sir, as I have a soul, she is an angel. +Our King has all the Indies in his arms, +And more, and richer, when he strains that lady. +I cannot blame his conscience. + +FIRST GENTLEMAN. +They that bear +The cloth of honour over her are four barons +Of the Cinque Ports. + +SECOND GENTLEMAN. +Those men are happy, and so are all are near her. +I take it she that carries up the train +Is that old noble lady, Duchess of Norfolk. + +FIRST GENTLEMAN. +It is, and all the rest are countesses. + +SECOND GENTLEMAN. +Their coronets say so. These are stars indeed. + +FIRST GENTLEMAN. +And sometimes falling ones. + +SECOND GENTLEMAN. +No more of that. + +[_Exit the last of the procession._] + +Enter a third Gentleman. + +God save you, sir. Where have you been broiling? + +THIRD GENTLEMAN. +Among the crowds i’ th’ Abbey, where a finger +Could not be wedged in more. I am stifled +With the mere rankness of their joy. + +SECOND GENTLEMAN. +You saw +The ceremony? + +THIRD GENTLEMAN. +That I did. + +FIRST GENTLEMAN. +How was it? + +THIRD GENTLEMAN. +Well worth the seeing. + +SECOND GENTLEMAN. +Good sir, speak it to us. + +THIRD GENTLEMAN. +As well as I am able. The rich stream +Of lords and ladies, having brought the Queen +To a prepared place in the choir, fell off +A distance from her, while her Grace sat down +To rest a while, some half an hour or so, +In a rich chair of state, opposing freely +The beauty of her person to the people. +Believe me, sir, she is the goodliest woman +That ever lay by man, which when the people +Had the full view of, such a noise arose +As the shrouds make at sea in a stiff tempest, +As loud and to as many tunes. Hats, cloaks, +Doublets, I think, flew up, and had their faces +Been loose, this day they had been lost. Such joy +I never saw before. Great-bellied women +That had not half a week to go, like rams +In the old time of war, would shake the press +And make ’em reel before ’em. No man living +Could say “This is my wife” there, all were woven +So strangely in one piece. + +SECOND GENTLEMAN. +But what followed? + +THIRD GENTLEMAN. +At length her Grace rose, and with modest paces +Came to the altar, where she kneeled and saintlike +Cast her fair eyes to heaven and prayed devoutly; +Then rose again and bowed her to the people, +When by the Archbishop of Canterbury +She had all the royal makings of a queen, +As holy oil, Edward Confessor’s crown, +The rod, and bird of peace, and all such emblems +Laid nobly on her; which performed, the choir, +With all the choicest music of the kingdom, +Together sung _Te Deum_. So she parted, +And with the same full state paced back again +To York Place, where the feast is held. + +FIRST GENTLEMAN. +Sir, +You must no more call it “York Place”, that’s past; +For since the Cardinal fell, that title’s lost. +’Tis now the King’s, and called “Whitehall”. + +THIRD GENTLEMAN. +I know it, +But ’tis so lately altered that the old name +Is fresh about me. + +SECOND GENTLEMAN. +What two reverend bishops +Were those that went on each side of the Queen? + +THIRD GENTLEMAN. +Stokesley and Gardiner, the one of Winchester, +Newly preferred from the King’s secretary; +The other, London. + +SECOND GENTLEMAN. +He of Winchester +Is held no great good lover of the Archbishop’s, +The virtuous Cranmer. + +THIRD GENTLEMAN. +All the land knows that. +However, yet there is no great breach. When it comes, +Cranmer will find a friend will not shrink from him. + +SECOND GENTLEMAN. +Who may that be, I pray you? + +THIRD GENTLEMAN. +Thomas Cromwell, +A man in much esteem with th’ King, and truly +A worthy friend. The King has made him +Master o’ th’ Jewel House, +And one already of the Privy Council. + +SECOND GENTLEMAN. +He will deserve more. + +THIRD GENTLEMAN. +Yes, without all doubt. +Come, gentlemen, ye shall go my way, +Which is to th’ court, and there ye shall be my guests, +Something I can command. As I walk thither, +I’ll tell ye more. + +BOTH. +You may command us, sir. + +[_Exeunt._] + +SCENE II. Kimbolton. + +Enter Katherine Dowager, sick, led between Griffith, her gentleman +usher, and Patience, her woman. + +GRIFFITH. +How does your Grace? + +QUEEN KATHERINE. +O Griffith, sick to death. +My legs like loaden branches bow to th’ earth, +Willing to leave their burden. Reach a chair. + +[_She sits._] + +So. Now, methinks, I feel a little ease. +Didst thou not tell me, Griffith, as thou ledst me, +That the great child of honour, Cardinal Wolsey, +Was dead? + +GRIFFITH. +Yes, madam, but I think your Grace, +Out of the pain you suffered, gave no ear to’t. + +QUEEN KATHERINE. +Prithee, good Griffith, tell me how he died. +If well, he stepped before me happily +For my example. + +GRIFFITH. +Well, the voice goes, madam. +For after the stout Earl Northumberland +Arrested him at York and brought him forward, +As a man sorely tainted, to his answer, +He fell sick suddenly and grew so ill +He could not sit his mule. + +QUEEN KATHERINE. +Alas, poor man! + +GRIFFITH. +At last, with easy roads, he came to Leicester, +Lodged in the abbey, where the reverend abbot, +With all his covent, honourably received him; +To whom he gave these words: “O father abbot, +An old man, broken with the storms of state, +Is come to lay his weary bones among ye. +Give him a little earth for charity.” +So went to bed, where eagerly his sickness +Pursued him still; and three nights after this, +About the hour of eight, which he himself +Foretold should be his last, full of repentance, +Continual meditations, tears, and sorrows, +He gave his honours to the world again, +His blessed part to heaven, and slept in peace. + +QUEEN KATHERINE. +So may he rest. His faults lie gently on him! +Yet thus far, Griffith, give me leave to speak him, +And yet with charity. He was a man +Of an unbounded stomach, ever ranking +Himself with princes; one that by suggestion +Tied all the kingdom. Simony was fair-play. +His own opinion was his law. I’ th’ presence +He would say untruths, and be ever double +Both in his words and meaning. He was never, +But where he meant to ruin, pitiful. +His promises were, as he then was, mighty; +But his performance, as he is now, nothing. +Of his own body he was ill, and gave +The clergy ill example. + +GRIFFITH. +Noble madam, +Men’s evil manners live in brass; their virtues +We write in water. May it please your Highness +To hear me speak his good now? + +QUEEN KATHERINE. +Yes, good Griffith; +I were malicious else. + +GRIFFITH. +This Cardinal, +Though from an humble stock, undoubtedly +Was fashioned to much honour. From his cradle +He was a scholar, and a ripe and good one, +Exceeding wise, fair-spoken, and persuading; +Lofty and sour to them that loved him not, +But to those men that sought him, sweet as summer. +And though he were unsatisfied in getting, +Which was a sin, yet in bestowing, madam, +He was most princely. Ever witness for him +Those twins of learning that he raised in you, +Ipswich and Oxford, one of which fell with him, +Unwilling to outlive the good that did it; +The other, though unfinished, yet so famous, +So excellent in art, and still so rising, +That Christendom shall ever speak his virtue. +His overthrow heaped happiness upon him, +For then, and not till then, he felt himself, +And found the blessedness of being little. +And, to add greater honours to his age +Than man could give him, he died fearing God. + +QUEEN KATHERINE. +After my death I wish no other herald, +No other speaker of my living actions, +To keep mine honour from corruption +But such an honest chronicler as Griffith. +Whom I most hated living, thou hast made me, +With thy religious truth and modesty, +Now in his ashes honour. Peace be with him! +Patience, be near me still, and set me lower: +I have not long to trouble thee. Good Griffith, +Cause the musicians play me that sad note +I named my knell, whilst I sit meditating +On that celestial harmony I go to. + +[_Sad and solemn music._] + +GRIFFITH. +She is asleep. Good wench, let’s sit down quiet, +For fear we wake her. Softly, gentle Patience. + +_The vision._ + + +Enter, solemnly tripping one after another, six Personages, clad in +white robes, wearing on their heads garlands of bays, and golden +vizards on their faces, branches of bays or palm in their hands. They +first congee unto her, then dance; and, at certain changes, the first +two hold a spare garland over her head, at which the other four make +reverent curtsies. Then the two that held the garland deliver the same +to the other next two, who observe the same order in their changes and +holding the garland over her head; which done, they deliver the same +garland to the last two, who likewise observe the same order. At which, +as it were by inspiration, she makes in her sleep signs of rejoicing +and holdeth up her hands to heaven. And so in their dancing, vanish, +carrying the garland with them. The music continues. + +QUEEN KATHERINE. +Spirits of peace, where are ye? Are ye all gone, +And leave me here in wretchedness behind ye? + +GRIFFITH. +Madam, we are here. + +QUEEN KATHERINE. +It is not you I call for. +Saw ye none enter since I slept? + +GRIFFITH. +None, madam. + +QUEEN KATHERINE. +No? Saw you not, even now, a blessed troop +Invite me to a banquet, whose bright faces +Cast thousand beams upon me, like the sun? +They promised me eternal happiness +And brought me garlands, Griffith, which I feel +I am not worthy yet to wear. I shall, assuredly. + +GRIFFITH. +I am most joyful, madam, such good dreams +Possess your fancy. + +QUEEN KATHERINE. +Bid the music leave, +They are harsh and heavy to me. + +[_Music ceases._] + +PATIENCE. +Do you note +How much her Grace is altered on the sudden? +How long her face is drawn? How pale she looks, +And of an earthly cold? Mark her eyes. + +GRIFFITH. +She is going, wench. Pray, pray. + +PATIENCE. +Heaven comfort her! + +Enter a Messenger. + +MESSENGER. +An’t like your Grace— + +QUEEN KATHERINE. +You are a saucy fellow. +Deserve we no more reverence? + +GRIFFITH. +You are to blame, +Knowing she will not lose her wonted greatness, +To use so rude behaviour. Go to, kneel. + +MESSENGER. +I humbly do entreat your Highness’ pardon. +My haste made me unmannerly. There is staying +A gentleman sent from the King to see you. + +QUEEN KATHERINE. +Admit him entrance, Griffith. But this fellow +Let me ne’er see again. + +[_Exit Messenger._] + +Enter Lord Caputius. + +If my sight fail not, +You should be lord ambassador from the Emperor, +My royal nephew, and your name Caputius. + +CAPUTIUS. +Madam, the same. Your servant. + +QUEEN KATHERINE. +O my lord, +The times and titles now are altered strangely +With me since first you knew me. But I pray you, +What is your pleasure with me? + +CAPUTIUS. +Noble lady, +First, mine own service to your Grace; the next, +The King’s request that I would visit you, +Who grieves much for your weakness, and by me +Sends you his princely commendations, +And heartily entreats you take good comfort. + +QUEEN KATHERINE. +O my good lord, that comfort comes too late; +’Tis like a pardon after execution. +That gentle physic given in time had cured me, +But now I am past all comforts here but prayers. +How does his Highness? + +CAPUTIUS. +Madam, in good health. + +QUEEN KATHERINE. +So may he ever do, and ever flourish, +When I shall dwell with worms, and my poor name +Banished the kingdom. Patience, is that letter +I caused you write yet sent away? + +PATIENCE. +No, madam. + +[_Giving it to Katherine._] + +QUEEN KATHERINE. +Sir, I most humbly pray you to deliver +This to my lord the King. + +CAPUTIUS. +Most willing, madam. + +QUEEN KATHERINE. +In which I have commended to his goodness +The model of our chaste loves, his young daughter— +The dews of heaven fall thick in blessings on her!— +Beseeching him to give her virtuous breeding— +She is young and of a noble modest nature; +I hope she will deserve well—and a little +To love her for her mother’s sake that loved him, +Heaven knows how dearly. My next poor petition +Is that his noble Grace would have some pity +Upon my wretched women, that so long +Have followed both my fortunes faithfully; +Of which there is not one, I dare avow— +And now I should not lie—but will deserve, +For virtue and true beauty of the soul, +For honesty and decent carriage, +A right good husband. Let him be a noble; +And sure those men are happy that shall have ’em. +The last is for my men—they are the poorest, +But poverty could never draw ’em from me— +That they may have their wages duly paid ’em, +And something over to remember me by. +If heaven had pleased to have given me longer life +And able means, we had not parted thus. +These are the whole contents, and, good my lord, +By that you love the dearest in this world, +As you wish Christian peace to souls departed, +Stand these poor people’s friend, and urge the King +To do me this last right. + +CAPUTIUS. +By heaven, I will, +Or let me lose the fashion of a man! + +QUEEN KATHERINE. +I thank you, honest lord. Remember me +In all humility unto his Highness. +Say his long trouble now is passing +Out of this world. Tell him in death I blessed him, +For so I will. Mine eyes grow dim. Farewell, +My lord. Griffith, farewell. Nay, Patience, +You must not leave me yet. I must to bed; +Call in more women. When I am dead, good wench, +Let me be used with honour. Strew me over +With maiden flowers, that all the world may know +I was a chaste wife to my grave. Embalm me, +Then lay me forth. Although unqueened, yet like +A queen and daughter to a king inter me. +I can no more. + +[_Exeunt leading Katherine._] + + + + +ACT V + +SCENE I. A gallery in the palace. + + +Enter Gardiner, Bishop of Winchester, a Page with a torch before him, +met by Sir Thomas Lovell. + +GARDINER. +It’s one o’clock, boy, is’t not? + +PAGE. +It hath struck. + +GARDINER. +These should be hours for necessities, +Not for delights; times to repair our nature +With comforting repose, and not for us +To waste these times. Good hour of night, Sir Thomas! +Whither so late? + +LOVELL. +Came you from the King, my lord? + +GARDINER. +I did, Sir Thomas, and left him at primero +With the Duke of Suffolk. + +LOVELL. +I must to him too, +Before he go to bed. I’ll take my leave. + +GARDINER. +Not yet, Sir Thomas Lovell. What’s the matter? +It seems you are in haste. An if there be +No great offence belongs to’t, give your friend +Some touch of your late business. Affairs that walk, +As they say spirits do, at midnight have +In them a wilder nature than the business +That seeks despatch by day. + +LOVELL. +My lord, I love you, +And durst commend a secret to your ear +Much weightier than this work. The Queen’s in labour— +They say in great extremity, and feared +She’ll with the labour end. + +GARDINER. +The fruit she goes with +I pray for heartily, that it may find +Good time, and live; but for the stock, Sir Thomas, +I wish it grubbed up now. + +LOVELL. +Methinks I could +Cry the amen, and yet my conscience says +She’s a good creature and, sweet lady, does +Deserve our better wishes. + +GARDINER. +But, sir, sir, +Hear me, Sir Thomas. You’re a gentleman +Of mine own way. I know you wise, religious; +And let me tell you, it will ne’er be well, +’Twill not, Sir Thomas Lovell, take’t of me, +Till Cranmer, Cromwell, her two hands, and she +Sleep in their graves. + +LOVELL. +Now, sir, you speak of two +The most remarked i’ th’ kingdom. As for Cromwell, +Beside that of the Jewel House, is made Master +O’ th’ Rolls, and the King’s secretary; further, sir, +Stands in the gap and trade of more preferments, +With which the time will load him. Th’ Archbishop +Is the King’s hand and tongue, and who dare speak +One syllable against him? + +GARDINER. +Yes, yes, Sir Thomas, +There are that dare, and I myself have ventured +To speak my mind of him. And indeed this day, +Sir—I may tell it you, I think—I have +Incensed the lords o’ th’ Council, that he is— +For so I know he is, they know he is— +A most arch heretic, a pestilence +That does infect the land; with which they, moved, +Have broken with the King, who hath so far +Given ear to our complaint, of his great grace +And princely care foreseeing those fell mischiefs +Our reasons laid before him, hath commanded +Tomorrow morning to the Council board +He be convented. He’s a rank weed, Sir Thomas, +And we must root him out. From your affairs +I hinder you too long. Good night, Sir Thomas. + +LOVELL. +Many good nights, my lord. I rest your servant. + +[_Exeunt Gardiner and Page._] + +Enter King and Suffolk. + +KING. +Charles, I will play no more tonight. +My mind’s not on’t; you are too hard for me. + +SUFFOLK. +Sir, I did never win of you before. + +KING. +But little, Charles, +Nor shall not, when my fancy’s on my play. +Now, Lovell, from the Queen what is the news? + +LOVELL. +I could not personally deliver to her +What you commanded me, but by her woman +I sent your message, who returned her thanks +In the great’st humbleness, and desired your Highness +Most heartily to pray for her. + +KING. +What sayst thou, ha? +To pray for her? What, is she crying out? + +LOVELL. +So said her woman, and that her suff’rance made +Almost each pang a death. + +KING. +Alas, good lady! + +SUFFOLK. +God safely quit her of her burden, and +With gentle travail, to the gladding of +Your Highness with an heir! + +KING. +’Tis midnight, Charles. +Prithee, to bed, and in thy prayers remember +Th’ estate of my poor Queen. Leave me alone, +For I must think of that which company +Will not be friendly to. + +SUFFOLK. +I wish your Highness +A quiet night, and my good mistress will +Remember in my prayers. + +KING. +Charles, good night. + +[_Exit Suffolk._] + +Enter Sir Anthony Denny. + +Well, sir, what follows? + +DENNY. +Sir, I have brought my lord the Archbishop, +As you commanded me. + +KING. +Ha! Canterbury? + +DENNY. +Ay, my good lord. + +KING. +’Tis true. Where is he, Denny? + +DENNY. +He attends your Highness’ pleasure. + +KING. +Bring him to us. + +[_Exit Denny._] + +LOVELL. +[_Aside_.] This is about that which the Bishop spake. +I am happily come hither. + +Enter Cranmer and Denny. + +KING. +Avoid the gallery. [_Lovell seems to stay_.] +Ha! I have said. Be gone. +What! + +[_Exeunt Lovell and Denny._] + +CRANMER. +[_Aside_.] I am fearful. Wherefore frowns he thus? +’Tis his aspect of terror. All’s not well. + +KING. +How now, my lord? You do desire to know +Wherefore I sent for you. + +CRANMER. +[_Kneeling_.] It is my duty +T’ attend your Highness’ pleasure. + +KING. +Pray you, arise, +My good and gracious Lord of Canterbury. +Come, you and I must walk a turn together. +I have news to tell you. Come, come, give me your hand. +Ah, my good lord, I grieve at what I speak, +And am right sorry to repeat what follows. +I have, and most unwillingly, of late +Heard many grievous—I do say, my lord, +Grievous—complaints of you, which, being considered, +Have moved us and our Council that you shall +This morning come before us, where I know, +You cannot with such freedom purge yourself +But that, till further trial in those charges +Which will require your answer, you must take +Your patience to you and be well contented +To make your house our Tower. You a brother of us, +It fits we thus proceed, or else no witness +Would come against you. + +CRANMER. +[_Kneeling_.] I humbly thank your Highness, +And am right glad to catch this good occasion +Most throughly to be winnowed, where my chaff +And corn shall fly asunder. For I know +There’s none stands under more calumnious tongues +Than I myself, poor man. + +KING. +Stand up, good Canterbury! +Thy truth and thy integrity is rooted +In us, thy friend. Give me thy hand. Stand up. +Prithee, let’s walk. Now, by my halidom, +What manner of man are you? My lord, I looked +You would have given me your petition that +I should have ta’en some pains to bring together +Yourself and your accusers and to have heard you +Without endurance, further. + +CRANMER. +Most dread liege, +The good I stand on is my truth and honesty. +If they shall fail, I with mine enemies +Will triumph o’er my person, which I weigh not, +Being of those virtues vacant. I fear nothing +What can be said against me. + +KING. +Know you not +How your state stands i’ th’ world, with the whole world? +Your enemies are many, and not small; their practices +Must bear the same proportion, and not ever +The justice and the truth o’ th’ question carries +The due o’ th’ verdict with it. At what ease +Might corrupt minds procure knaves as corrupt +To swear against you? Such things have been done. +You are potently opposed, and with a malice +Of as great size. Ween you of better luck, +I mean in perjured witness, than your master, +Whose minister you are, whiles here he lived +Upon this naughty earth? Go to, go to. +You take a precipice for no leap of danger, +And woo your own destruction. + +CRANMER. +God and your Majesty +Protect mine innocence, or I fall into +The trap is laid for me. + +KING. +Be of good cheer. +They shall no more prevail than we give way to. +Keep comfort to you, and this morning see +You do appear before them. If they shall chance, +In charging you with matters, to commit you, +The best persuasions to the contrary +Fail not to use, and with what vehemency +Th’ occasion shall instruct you. If entreaties +Will render you no remedy, this ring +Deliver them, and your appeal to us +There make before them. Look, the good man weeps! +He’s honest, on mine honour. God’s blest mother, +I swear he is true-hearted, and a soul +None better in my kingdom.—Get you gone, +And do as I have bid you. + +[_Exit Cranmer._] + +He has strangled +His language in his tears. + +LOVELL. +[_Within_.] Come back! What mean you? + +Enter Old Lady; Lovell follows. + +OLD LADY. +I’ll not come back. The tidings that I bring +Will make my boldness manners. Now, good angels +Fly o’er thy royal head and shade thy person +Under their blessed wings! + +KING. +Now by thy looks +I guess thy message. Is the Queen delivered? +Say “Ay, and of a boy”. + +OLD LADY. +Ay, ay, my liege, +And of a lovely boy. The God of heaven +Both now and ever bless her! ’Tis a girl +Promises boys hereafter. Sir, your Queen +Desires your visitation, and to be +Acquainted with this stranger. ’Tis as like you +As cherry is to cherry. + +KING. +Lovell. + +LOVELL. +Sir? + +KING. +Give her an hundred marks. I’ll to the Queen. + +[_Exit King._] + +OLD LADY. +An hundred marks? By this light, I’ll ha’ more. +An ordinary groom is for such payment. +I will have more or scold it out of him. +Said I for this the girl was like to him? +I’ll have more, or else unsay’t. And now, +While ’tis hot, I’ll put it to the issue. + +[_Exeunt._] + +SCENE II. Lobby before the council-chamber. + +Enter Cranmer, Archbishop of Canterbury. + +CRANMER. +I hope I am not too late, and yet the gentleman +That was sent to me from the Council prayed me +To make great haste. All fast? What means this? Ho! +Who waits there? + +Enter Keeper. + +Sure you know me? + +KEEPER. +Yes, my lord, +But yet I cannot help you. + +CRANMER. +Why? + +KEEPER. +Your Grace must wait till you be called for. + +Enter Doctor Butts. + +CRANMER. +So. + +BUTTS. +[_Aside_.] This is a piece of malice. I am glad +I came this way so happily. The King +Shall understand it presently. + +[_Exit._] + +CRANMER. +[_Aside_.] ’Tis Butts, +The King’s physician. As he passed along, +How earnestly he cast his eyes upon me! +Pray heaven he sound not my disgrace. For certain, +This is of purpose laid by some that hate me— +God turn their hearts! I never sought their malice— +To quench mine honour. They would shame to make me +Wait else at door, a fellow councillor, +’Mong boys, grooms, and lackeys. But their pleasures +Must be fulfilled, and I attend with patience. + +Enter the King and Butts at a window above. + +BUTTS. +I’ll show your Grace the strangest sight. + +KING. +What’s that, Butts? + +BUTTS. +I think your Highness saw this many a day. + +KING. +Body o’ me, where is it? + +BUTTS. +There, my lord: +The high promotion of his Grace of Canterbury, +Who holds his state at door, ’mongst pursuivants, +Pages, and footboys. + +KING. +Ha! ’Tis he, indeed. +Is this the honour they do one another? +’Tis well there’s one above ’em yet. I had thought +They had parted so much honesty among ’em— +At least good manners—as not thus to suffer +A man of his place, and so near our favour, +To dance attendance on their lordships’ pleasures, +And at the door too, like a post with packets. +By holy Mary, Butts, there’s knavery! +Let ’em alone, and draw the curtain close. +We shall hear more anon. + +[_Exeunt._] + +A council table brought in with chairs and stools and placed under the +state. Enter Lord Chancellor, places himself at the upper end of the +table on the left hand, a seat being left void above him, as for +Canterbury’s seat. Duke of Suffolk, Duke of Norfolk, Surrey, Lord +Chamberlain, Gardiner seat themselves in order on each side; Cromwell +at lower end, as secretary. + +CHANCELLOR. +Speak to the business, master secretary. +Why are we met in council? + +CROMWELL. +Please your honours, +The chief cause concerns his Grace of Canterbury. + +GARDINER. +Has he had knowledge of it? + +CROMWELL. +Yes. + +NORFOLK. +Who waits there? + +KEEPER. +Without, my noble lords? + +GARDINER. +Yes. + +KEEPER. +My lord Archbishop, +And has done half an hour, to know your pleasures. + +CHANCELLOR. +Let him come in. + +KEEPER. +Your Grace may enter now. + +Cranmer approaches the council table. + +CHANCELLOR. +My good lord Archbishop, I’m very sorry +To sit here at this present and behold +That chair stand empty. But we all are men, +In our own natures frail, and capable +Of our flesh—few are angels—out of which frailty +And want of wisdom, you that best should teach us, +Have misdemeaned yourself, and not a little, +Toward the King first, then his laws, in filling +The whole realm, by your teaching and your chaplains’— +For so we are informed—with new opinions, +Divers and dangerous, which are heresies +And, not reformed, may prove pernicious. + +GARDINER. +Which reformation must be sudden too, +My noble lords; for those that tame wild horses +Pace ’em not in their hands to make ’em gentle, +But stop their mouth with stubborn bits and spur ’em +Till they obey the manage. If we suffer, +Out of our easiness and childish pity +To one man’s honour, this contagious sickness, +Farewell, all physic. And what follows then? +Commotions, uproars, with a general taint +Of the whole state, as of late days our neighbours, +The upper Germany, can dearly witness, +Yet freshly pitied in our memories. + +CRANMER. +My good lords, hitherto in all the progress +Both of my life and office, I have laboured, +And with no little study, that my teaching +And the strong course of my authority +Might go one way, and safely; and the end +Was ever to do well. Nor is there living— +I speak it with a single heart, my lords— +A man that more detests, more stirs against, +Both in his private conscience and his place, +Defacers of a public peace than I do. +Pray heaven the King may never find a heart +With less allegiance in it! Men that make +Envy and crooked malice nourishment +Dare bite the best. I do beseech your lordships +That, in this case of justice, my accusers, +Be what they will, may stand forth face to face +And freely urge against me. + +SUFFOLK. +Nay, my lord, +That cannot be. You are a councillor, +And by that virtue no man dare accuse you. + +GARDINER. +My lord, because we have business of more moment, +We will be short with you. ’Tis his Highness’ pleasure +And our consent, for better trial of you, +From hence you be committed to the Tower, +Where, being but a private man again, +You shall know many dare accuse you boldly— +More than, I fear, you are provided for. + +CRANMER. +Ah, my good Lord of Winchester, I thank you. +You are always my good friend. If your will pass, +I shall both find your lordship judge and juror, +You are so merciful. I see your end: +’Tis my undoing. Love and meekness, lord, +Become a churchman better than ambition. +Win straying souls with modesty again; +Cast none away. That I shall clear myself, +Lay all the weight ye can upon my patience, +I make as little doubt as you do conscience +In doing daily wrongs. I could say more, +But reverence to your calling makes me modest. + +GARDINER. +My lord, my lord, you are a sectary, +That’s the plain truth. Your painted gloss discovers, +To men that understand you, words and weakness. + +CROMWELL. +My Lord of Winchester, you are a little, +By your good favour, too sharp. Men so noble, +However faulty, yet should find respect +For what they have been. ’Tis a cruelty +To load a falling man. + +GARDINER. +Good master secretary, +I cry your honour mercy: you may worst +Of all this table say so. + +CROMWELL. +Why, my lord? + +GARDINER. +Do not I know you for a favourer +Of this new sect? Ye are not sound. + +CROMWELL. +Not sound? + +GARDINER. +Not sound, I say. + +CROMWELL. +Would you were half so honest! +Men’s prayers then would seek you, not their fears. + +GARDINER. +I shall remember this bold language. + +CROMWELL. +Do. +Remember your bold life too. + +CHANCELLOR. +This is too much. +Forbear, for shame, my lords. + +GARDINER. +I have done. + +CROMWELL. +And I. + +CHANCELLOR. +Then thus for you, my lord: it stands agreed, +I take it, by all voices, that forthwith +You be conveyed to th’ Tower a prisoner, +There to remain till the King’s further pleasure +Be known unto us. Are you all agreed, lords? + +ALL. +We are. + +CRANMER. +Is there no other way of mercy +But I must needs to th’ Tower, my lords? + +GARDINER. +What other +Would you expect? You are strangely troublesome. +Let some o’ th’ guard be ready there. + +Enter the guard. + +CRANMER. +For me? +Must I go like a traitor thither? + +GARDINER. +Receive him, +And see him safe i’ th’ Tower. + +CRANMER. +Stay, good my lords, +I have a little yet to say. Look there, my lords. +By virtue of that ring, I take my cause +Out of the gripes of cruel men and give it +To a most noble judge, the King my master. + +CHAMBERLAIN. +This is the King’s ring. + +SURREY. +’Tis no counterfeit. + +SUFFOLK. +’Tis the right ring, by heaven! I told ye all, +When we first put this dangerous stone a-rolling, +’Twould fall upon ourselves. + +NORFOLK. +Do you think, my lords, +The King will suffer but the little finger +Of this man to be vexed? + +CHAMBERLAIN. +’Tis now too certain. +How much more is his life in value with him? +Would I were fairly out on’t! + +CROMWELL. +My mind gave me, +In seeking tales and informations +Against this man, whose honesty the devil +And his disciples only envy at, +Ye blew the fire that burns ye. Now have at ye! + +Enter King, frowning on them; takes his seat. + +GARDINER. +Dread sovereign, how much are we bound to heaven +In daily thanks, that gave us such a prince, +Not only good and wise, but most religious; +One that, in all obedience, makes the Church +The chief aim of his honour and, to strengthen +That holy duty out of dear respect, +His royal self in judgement comes to hear +The cause betwixt her and this great offender. + +KING. +You were ever good at sudden commendations, +Bishop of Winchester. But know I come not +To hear such flattery now, and in my presence +They are too thin and bare to hide offences. +To me you cannot reach, you play the spaniel, +And think with wagging of your tongue to win me; +But whatsoe’er thou tak’st me for, I’m sure +Thou hast a cruel nature and a bloody. +[_To Cranmer_.] Good man, sit down. Now let me see the proudest +He, that dares most, but wag his finger at thee. +By all that’s holy, he had better starve +Than but once think this place becomes thee not. + +SURREY. +May it please your Grace— + +KING. +No, sir, it does not please me. +I had thought I had had men of some understanding +And wisdom of my Council, but I find none. +Was it discretion, lords, to let this man, +This good man—few of you deserve that title— +This honest man, wait like a lousy footboy +At chamber door? And one as great as you are? +Why, what a shame was this! Did my commission +Bid ye so far forget yourselves? I gave ye +Power as he was a councillor to try him, +Not as a groom. There’s some of ye, I see, +More out of malice than integrity, +Would try him to the utmost, had ye mean, +Which ye shall never have while I live. + +CHANCELLOR. +Thus far, +My most dread sovereign, may it like your Grace +To let my tongue excuse all. What was purposed +Concerning his imprisonment was rather, +If there be faith in men, meant for his trial +And fair purgation to the world than malice, +I’m sure, in me. + +KING. +Well, well, my lords, respect him. +Take him, and use him well; he’s worthy of it. +I will say thus much for him: if a prince +May be beholding to a subject, I +Am, for his love and service, so to him. +Make me no more ado, but all embrace him. +Be friends, for shame, my lords! My Lord of Canterbury, +I have a suit which you must not deny me: +That is, a fair young maid that yet wants baptism. +You must be godfather and answer for her. + +CRANMER. +The greatest monarch now alive may glory +In such an honour. How may I deserve it, +That am a poor and humble subject to you? + +KING. +Come, come, my lord, you’d spare your spoons. You shall have two noble +partners with you: the old Duchess of Norfolk and Lady Marquess Dorset. +Will these please you? +Once more, my Lord of Winchester, I charge you, +Embrace and love this man. + +GARDINER. +With a true heart +And brother-love I do it. + +CRANMER. +And let heaven +Witness how dear I hold this confirmation. + +KING. +Good man, those joyful tears show thy true heart. +The common voice, I see, is verified +Of thee, which says thus: “Do my Lord of Canterbury +A shrewd turn, and he is your friend for ever.” +Come, lords, we trifle time away. I long +To have this young one made a Christian. +As I have made ye one, lords, one remain. +So I grow stronger, you more honour gain. + +[_Exeunt._] + +SCENE III. The palace yard. + +Noise and tumult within. Enter Porter and his Man. + +PORTER. +You’ll leave your noise anon, ye rascals. Do you take the court for +Parish Garden? Ye rude slaves, leave your gaping. + +ONE. +[_Within_.] Good master porter, I belong to th’ larder. + +PORTER. +Belong to th’ gallows, and be hanged, ye rogue! Is this a place to roar +in? Fetch me a dozen crab-tree staves, and strong ones. These are but +switches to ’em. I’ll scratch your heads. You must be seeing +christenings? Do you look for ale and cakes here, you rude rascals? + +PORTER’S MAN. +Pray, sir, be patient. ’Tis as much impossible— +Unless we sweep ’em from the door with cannons— +To scatter ’em as ’tis to make ’em sleep +On May-day morning, which will never be. +We may as well push against Paul’s as stir ’em. + +PORTER. +How got they in, and be hanged? + +PORTER’S MAN. +Alas, I know not. How gets the tide in? +As much as one sound cudgel of four foot— +You see the poor remainder—could distribute, +I made no spare, sir. + +PORTER. +You did nothing, sir. + +PORTER’S MAN. +I am not Samson, nor Sir Guy, nor Colbrand, +To mow ’em down before me; but if I spared any +That had a head to hit, either young or old, +He or she, cuckold or cuckold-maker, +Let me ne’er hope to see a chine again— +And that I would not for a cow, God save her! + +ONE. +[_Within_.] Do you hear, master porter? + +PORTER. +I shall be with you presently, good master puppy.— +Keep the door close, sirrah. + +PORTER’S MAN. +What would you have me do? + +PORTER. +What should you do, but knock ’em down by th’ dozens? Is this +Moorfields to muster in? Or have we some strange Indian with the great +tool come to court, the women so besiege us? Bless me, what a fry of +fornication is at door! On my Christian conscience, this one +christening will beget a thousand; here will be father, godfather, and +all together. + +PORTER’S MAN. +The spoons will be the bigger, sir. There is a fellow somewhat near the +door—he should be a brazier by his face, for, o’ my conscience, twenty +of the dog-days now reign in’s nose. All that stand about him are under +the line; they need no other penance. That fire-drake did I hit three +times on the head, and three times was his nose discharged against me. +He stands there, like a mortar-piece, to blow us. There was a +haberdasher’s wife of small wit near him that railed upon me till her +pinked porringer fell off her head for kindling such a combustion in +the state. I missed the meteor once and hit that woman, who cried out +“Clubs!” when I might see from far some forty truncheoners draw to her +succour, which were the hope o’ th’ Strand, where she was quartered. +They fell on; I made good my place; at length they came to th’ +broomstaff to me; I defied ’em still, when suddenly a file of boys +behind ’em, loose shot, delivered such a shower of pebbles that I was +fain to draw mine honour in and let ’em win the work. The devil was +amongst ’em, I think, surely. + +PORTER. +These are the youths that thunder at a playhouse and fight for bitten +apples, that no audience but the tribulation of Tower Hill or the limbs +of Limehouse, their dear brothers, are able to endure. I have some of +’em in _Limbo Patrum_, and there they are like to dance these three +days, besides the running banquet of two beadles that is to come. + +Enter Lord Chamberlain. + +CHAMBERLAIN. +Mercy o’ me, what a multitude are here! +They grow still too. From all parts they are coming, +As if we kept a fair here! Where are these porters, +These lazy knaves? You’ve made a fine hand, fellows! +There’s a trim rabble let in. Are all these +Your faithful friends o’ th’ suburbs? We shall have +Great store of room, no doubt, left for the ladies, +When they pass back from the christening. + +PORTER. +An’t please your honour, +We are but men; and what so many may do, +Not being torn a-pieces, we have done. +An army cannot rule ’em. + +CHAMBERLAIN. +As I live, +If the King blame me for’t, I’ll lay ye all +By th’ heels, and suddenly, and on your heads +Clap round fines for neglect. You’re lazy knaves, +And here ye lie baiting of bombards, when +Ye should do service. Hark, the trumpets sound! +They’re come already from the christening. +Go break among the press, and find a way out +To let the troops pass fairly, or I’ll find +A Marshalsea shall hold ye play these two months. + +PORTER. +Make way there for the Princess! + +PORTER’S MAN. +You great fellow, +Stand close up, or I’ll make your head ache. + +PORTER. +You i’ th’ camlet, get up o’ th’ rail! +I’ll peck you o’er the pales else. + +[_Exeunt._] + +SCENE IV. The palace. + +Enter Trumpets, sounding; then two Aldermen, Lord Mayor, Garter, +Cranmer, Duke of Norfolk with his marshal’s staff, Duke of Suffolk, two +Noblemen bearing great standing bowls for the christening gifts; then +four Noblemen bearing a canopy, under which the Duchess of Norfolk, +godmother, bearing the child richly habited in a mantle, etc., train +borne by a Lady; then follows the Marchioness Dorset, the other +godmother, and Ladies. The troop pass once about the stage, and Garter +speaks. + +GARTER. +Heaven, from thy endless goodness, send prosperous life, long and ever +happy, to the high and mighty Princess of England, Elizabeth. + +Flourish. Enter King and Guard. + +CRANMER. +[_Kneeling_.] And to your royal Grace and the good Queen, +My noble partners and myself thus pray +All comfort, joy, in this most gracious lady +Heaven ever laid up to make parents happy +May hourly fall upon ye! + +KING. +Thank you, good lord Archbishop. +What is her name? + +CRANMER. +Elizabeth. + +KING. +Stand up, lord. + +[_The King kisses the child._] + +With this kiss take my blessing: God protect thee, +Into whose hand I give thy life. + +CRANMER. +Amen. + +KING. +My noble gossips, you’ve have been too prodigal. +I thank ye heartily; so shall this lady, +When she has so much English. + +CRANMER. +Let me speak, sir, +For heaven now bids me; and the words I utter +Let none think flattery, for they’ll find ’em truth. +This royal infant—heaven still move about her!— +Though in her cradle, yet now promises +Upon this land a thousand thousand blessings, +Which time shall bring to ripeness. She shall be— +But few now living can behold that goodness— +A pattern to all princes living with her +And all that shall succeed. Saba was never +More covetous of wisdom and fair virtue +Than this pure soul shall be. All princely graces +That mould up such a mighty piece as this is, +With all the virtues that attend the good, +Shall still be doubled on her. Truth shall nurse her; +Holy and heavenly thoughts still counsel her. +She shall be loved and feared. Her own shall bless her; +Her foes shake like a field of beaten corn, +And hang their heads with sorrow. Good grows with her. +In her days every man shall eat in safety +Under his own vine what he plants, and sing +The merry songs of peace to all his neighbours. +God shall be truly known, and those about her +From her shall read the perfect ways of honour +And by those claim their greatness, not by blood. +Nor shall this peace sleep with her; but as when +The bird of wonder dies, the maiden phoenix, +Her ashes new create another heir +As great in admiration as herself, +So shall she leave her blessedness to one, +When heaven shall call her from this cloud of darkness, +Who from the sacred ashes of her honour +Shall star-like rise as great in fame as she was +And so stand fixed. Peace, plenty, love, truth, terror, +That were the servants to this chosen infant, +Shall then be his, and like a vine grow to him. +Wherever the bright sun of heaven shall shine, +His honour and the greatness of his name +Shall be, and make new nations. He shall flourish, +And, like a mountain cedar, reach his branches +To all the plains about him. Our children’s children +Shall see this and bless heaven. + +KING. +Thou speakest wonders. + +CRANMER. +She shall be to the happiness of England +An aged princess; many days shall see her, +And yet no day without a deed to crown it. +Would I had known no more! But she must die, +She must, the saints must have her; yet a virgin, +A most unspotted lily, shall she pass to the ground, +And all the world shall mourn her. + +KING. +O lord Archbishop, +Thou hast made me now a man. Never before +This happy child did I get anything. +This oracle of comfort has so pleased me +That when I am in heaven I shall desire +To see what this child does and praise my Maker. +I thank ye all. To you, my good Lord Mayor, +And you, good brethren, I am much beholding. +I have received much honour by your presence, +And ye shall find me thankful. Lead the way, lords. +Ye must all see the Queen, and she must thank ye; +She will be sick else. This day, no man think +’Has business at his house, for all shall stay. +This little one shall make it holiday. + +[_Exeunt._] + +Epilogue + +Enter Epilogue. + +EPILOGUE. +’Tis ten to one this play can never please +All that are here. Some come to take their ease, +And sleep an act or two—but those, we fear, +We’ve frighted with our trumpets; so, ’tis clear, +They’ll say ’tis naught—others, to hear the city +Abused extremely and to cry “That’s witty!”— +Which we have not done neither—that I fear +All the expected good we’re like to hear +For this play at this time is only in +The merciful construction of good women, +For such a one we showed ’em. If they smile +And say ’twill do, I know within a while +All the best men are ours; for ’tis ill hap +If they hold when their ladies bid ’em clap. + +[_Exit._] diff --git a/100-h/100-h.htm b/100-h/100-h.htm index 0373daa..d309224 100644 --- a/100-h/100-h.htm +++ b/100-h/100-h.htm @@ -92,7 +92,7 @@ country where you are located before using this eBook. <div style='display:block; margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:1em; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em'>Title: The Complete Works of William Shakespeare</div> <div style='display:block; margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:1em; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em'>Author: William Shakespeare</div> <div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>Release Date: January 1994 [eBook #100]<br /> -[Most recently updated: March 13, 2023]</div> +[Most recently updated: March 22, 2023]</div> <div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>Language: English</div> <div style='margin-top:2em; margin-bottom:4em'>*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE COMPLETE WORKS OF WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE ***</div> @@ -85375,3732 +85375,6752 @@ For here, I hope, begins our lasting joy. <h2><a name="chap15"></a>KING HENRY THE EIGHTH</h2> -<h4>DRAMATIS PERSONAE</h4> +<hr /> + +</div><!--end chapter--> + +<div class="chapter"> + +<h2>Contents</h2> + +<table summary="" style=""> + +<tr> +<td> ACT I</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td> <a href="#sceneI_15.0">Prologue.</a></td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td> <a href="#sceneI_15.1">Scene I. London. An ante-chamber in the palace</a></td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td> <a href="#sceneI_15.2">Scene II. The same. The council-chamber</a></td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td> <a href="#sceneI_15.3">Scene III. An ante-chamber in the palace</a></td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td> <a href="#sceneI_15.4">Scene IV. A Hall in York Place</a><br/><br/></td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td> ACT II</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td> <a href="#sceneII_15.1">Scene I. Westminster. A street</a></td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td> <a href="#sceneII_15.2">Scene II. An ante-chamber in the palace</a></td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td> <a href="#sceneII_15.3">Scene III. An ante-chamber of the Queen’s apartments</a></td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td> <a href="#sceneII_15.4">Scene IV. A hall in Blackfriars</a><br/><br/></td> +</tr> -<p> KING HENRY THE EIGHTH<br/> - CARDINAL WOLSEY CARDINAL CAMPEIUS<br/> - CAPUCIUS, Ambassador from the Emperor Charles V<br/> - CRANMER, ARCHBISHOP OF CANTERBURY<br/> - DUKE OF NORFOLK DUKE OF BUCKINGHAM<br/> - DUKE OF SUFFOLK EARL OF SURREY<br/> - LORD CHAMBERLAIN LORD CHANCELLOR<br/> - GARDINER, BISHOP OF WINCHESTER<br/> - BISHOP OF LINCOLN LORD ABERGAVENNY<br/> - LORD SANDYS SIR HENRY GUILDFORD<br/> - SIR THOMAS LOVELL SIR ANTHONY DENNY<br/> - SIR NICHOLAS VAUX SECRETARIES to Wolsey<br/> - CROMWELL, servant to Wolsey<br/> - GRIFFITH, gentleman-usher to Queen Katharine<br/> - THREE GENTLEMEN<br/> - DOCTOR BUTTS, physician to the King<br/> - GARTER KING-AT-ARMS<br/> - SURVEYOR to the Duke of Buckingham<br/> - BRANDON, and a SERGEANT-AT-ARMS<br/> - DOORKEEPER Of the Council chamber<br/> - PORTER, and his MAN PAGE to Gardiner<br/> - A CRIER<br/> -</p> - -<p> QUEEN KATHARINE, wife to King Henry, afterwards divorced<br/> - ANNE BULLEN, her Maid of Honour, afterwards Queen<br/> - AN OLD LADY, friend to Anne Bullen<br/> - PATIENCE, woman to Queen Katharine<br/> -</p> - -<p> Lord Mayor, Aldermen, Lords and Ladies in the Dumb<br/> - Shows; Women attending upon the Queen; Scribes,<br/> - Officers, Guards, and other Attendants; Spirits<br/> -</p> - -<h4> SCENE:</h4> - -<p> London; Westminster; Kimbolton</p> - -<h4> KING HENRY THE EIGHTH</h4> - -<h4> THE PROLOGUE.</h4> - -<p> I come no more to make you laugh; things now<br/> - That bear a weighty and a serious brow,<br/> - Sad, high, and working, full of state and woe,<br/> - Such noble scenes as draw the eye to flow,<br/> - We now present. Those that can pity here<br/> - May, if they think it well, let fall a tear:<br/> - The subject will deserve it. Such as give<br/> - Their money out of hope they may believe<br/> - May here find truth too. Those that come to see<br/> - Only a show or two, and so agree<br/> - The play may pass, if they be still and willing,<br/> - I'll undertake may see away their shilling<br/> - Richly in two short hours. Only they<br/> - That come to hear a merry bawdy play,<br/> - A noise of targets, or to see a fellow<br/> - In a long motley coat guarded with yellow,<br/> - Will be deceiv'd; for, gentle hearers, know,<br/> - To rank our chosen truth with such a show<br/> - As fool and fight is, beside forfeiting<br/> - Our own brains, and the opinion that we bring<br/> - To make that only true we now intend,<br/> - Will leave us never an understanding friend.<br/> - Therefore, for goodness sake, and as you are known<br/> - The first and happiest hearers of the town,<br/> - Be sad, as we would make ye. Think ye see<br/> - The very persons of our noble story<br/> - As they were living; think you see them great,<br/> - And follow'd with the general throng and sweat<br/> - Of thousand friends; then, in a moment, see<br/> - How soon this mightiness meets misery.<br/> - And if you can be merry then, I'll say<br/> - A man may weep upon his wedding-day.<br/> +<tr> +<td> ACT III</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td> <a href="#sceneIII_15.1">Scene I. London. The Queen’s apartments</a></td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td> <a href="#sceneIII_15.2">Scene II. Ante-chamber to the King’s apartment</a><br/><br/></td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td> ACT IV</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td> <a href="#sceneIV_15.1">Scene I. A street in Westminster</a></td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td> <a href="#sceneIV_15.2">Scene II. Kimbolton</a><br/><br/></td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td> ACT V</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td> <a href="#sceneV_15.1">Scene I. A gallery in the palace</a></td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td> <a href="#sceneV_15.2">Scene II. Lobby before the council-chamber</a></td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td> <a href="#sceneV_15.3">Scene III. The palace yard</a></td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td> <a href="#sceneV_15.4">Scene IV. The palace</a></td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td> <a href="#sceneV_15.5">Epilogue</a></td> +</tr> + +</table> + +</div><!--end chapter--> + +<div class="chapter"> + +<h2>Dramatis Personæ</h2> + +<p class="drama"> +KING HENRY THE EIGHTH<br/> </p> -<h4>ACT I. SCENE 1.</h4> +<p class="drama"> +DUKE OF NORFOLK<br/> +DUKE OF SUFFOLK<br/> +</p> -<p>London. The palace</p> - -<p>Enter the DUKE OF NORFOLK at one door; at the other, -the DUKE OF BUCKINGHAM and the LORD ABERGAVENNY</p> - -<p> BUCKINGHAM. Good morrow, and well met. How have ye done<br/> - Since last we saw in France?<br/> - NORFOLK. I thank your Grace,<br/> - Healthful; and ever since a fresh admirer<br/> - Of what I saw there.<br/> - BUCKINGHAM. An untimely ague<br/> - Stay'd me a prisoner in my chamber when<br/> - Those suns of glory, those two lights of men,<br/> - Met in the vale of Andren.<br/> - NORFOLK. 'Twixt Guynes and Arde-<br/> - I was then present, saw them salute on horseback;<br/> - Beheld them, when they lighted, how they clung<br/> - In their embracement, as they grew together;<br/> - Which had they, what four thron'd ones could have weigh'd<br/> - Such a compounded one?<br/> - BUCKINGHAM. All the whole time<br/> - I was my chamber's prisoner.<br/> - NORFOLK. Then you lost<br/> - The view of earthly glory; men might say,<br/> - Till this time pomp was single, but now married<br/> - To one above itself. Each following day<br/> - Became the next day's master, till the last<br/> - Made former wonders its. To-day the French,<br/> - All clinquant, all in gold, like heathen gods,<br/> - Shone down the English; and to-morrow they<br/> - Made Britain India: every man that stood<br/> - Show'd like a mine. Their dwarfish pages were<br/> - As cherubins, an gilt; the madams too,<br/> - Not us'd to toil, did almost sweat to bear<br/> - The pride upon them, that their very labour<br/> - Was to them as a painting. Now this masque<br/> - Was cried incomparable; and th' ensuing night<br/> - Made it a fool and beggar. The two kings,<br/> - Equal in lustre, were now best, now worst,<br/> - As presence did present them: him in eye<br/> - still him in praise; and being present both,<br/> - 'Twas said they saw but one, and no discerner<br/> - Durst wag his tongue in censure. When these suns-<br/> - For so they phrase 'em-by their heralds challeng'd<br/> - The noble spirits to arms, they did perform<br/> - Beyond thought's compass, that former fabulous story,<br/> - Being now seen possible enough, got credit,<br/> - That Bevis was believ'd.<br/> - BUCKINGHAM. O, you go far!<br/> - NORFOLK. As I belong to worship, and affect<br/> - In honour honesty, the tract of ev'rything<br/> - Would by a good discourser lose some life<br/> - Which action's self was tongue to. All was royal:<br/> - To the disposing of it nought rebell'd;<br/> - Order gave each thing view. The office did<br/> - Distinctly his full function.<br/> - BUCKINGHAM. Who did guide-<br/> - I mean, who set the body and the limbs<br/> - Of this great sport together, as you guess?<br/> - NORFOLK. One, certes, that promises no element<br/> - In such a business.<br/> - BUCKINGHAM. I pray you, who, my lord?<br/> - NORFOLK. All this was ord'red by the good discretion<br/> - Of the right reverend Cardinal of York.<br/> - BUCKINGHAM. The devil speed him! No man's pie is freed<br/> - From his ambitious finger. What had he<br/> - To do in these fierce vanities? I wonder<br/> - That such a keech can with his very bulk<br/> - Take up the rays o' th' beneficial sun,<br/> - And keep it from the earth.<br/> - NORFOLK. Surely, sir,<br/> - There's in him stuff that puts him to these ends;<br/> - For, being not propp'd by ancestry, whose grace<br/> - Chalks successors their way, nor call'd upon<br/> - For high feats done to th' crown, neither allied<br/> - To eminent assistants, but spider-like,<br/> - Out of his self-drawing web, 'a gives us note<br/> - The force of his own merit makes his way-<br/> - A gift that heaven gives for him, which buys<br/> - A place next to the King.<br/> - ABERGAVENNY. I cannot tell<br/> - What heaven hath given him-let some graver eye<br/> - Pierce into that; but I can see his pride<br/> - Peep through each part of him. Whence has he that?<br/> - If not from hell, the devil is a niggard<br/> - Or has given all before, and he begins<br/> - A new hell in himself.<br/> - BUCKINGHAM. Why the devil,<br/> - Upon this French going out, took he upon him-<br/> - Without the privity o' th' King-t' appoint<br/> - Who should attend on him? He makes up the file<br/> - Of all the gentry; for the most part such<br/> - To whom as great a charge as little honour<br/> - He meant to lay upon; and his own letter,<br/> - The honourable board of council out,<br/> - Must fetch him in he papers.<br/> - ABERGAVENNY. I do know<br/> - Kinsmen of mine, three at the least, that have<br/> - By this so sicken'd their estates that never<br/> - They shall abound as formerly.<br/> - BUCKINGHAM. O, many<br/> - Have broke their backs with laying manors on 'em<br/> - For this great journey. What did this vanity<br/> - But minister communication of<br/> - A most poor issue?<br/> - NORFOLK. Grievingly I think<br/> - The peace between the French and us not values<br/> - The cost that did conclude it.<br/> - BUCKINGHAM. Every man,<br/> - After the hideous storm that follow'd, was<br/> - A thing inspir'd, and, not consulting, broke<br/> - Into a general prophecy-that this tempest,<br/> - Dashing the garment of this peace, aboded<br/> - The sudden breach on't.<br/> - NORFOLK. Which is budded out;<br/> - For France hath flaw'd the league, and hath attach'd<br/> - Our merchants' goods at Bordeaux.<br/> - ABERGAVENNY. Is it therefore<br/> - Th' ambassador is silenc'd?<br/> - NORFOLK. Marry, is't.<br/> - ABERGAVENNY. A proper tide of a peace, and purchas'd<br/> - At a superfluous rate!<br/> - BUCKINGHAM. Why, all this business<br/> - Our reverend Cardinal carried.<br/> - NORFOLK. Like it your Grace,<br/> - The state takes notice of the private difference<br/> - Betwixt you and the Cardinal. I advise you-<br/> - And take it from a heart that wishes towards you<br/> - Honour and plenteous safety-that you read<br/> - The Cardinal's malice and his potency<br/> - Together; to consider further, that<br/> - What his high hatred would effect wants not<br/> - A minister in his power. You know his nature,<br/> - That he's revengeful; and I know his sword<br/> - Hath a sharp edge-it's long and't may be said<br/> - It reaches far, and where 'twill not extend,<br/> - Thither he darts it. Bosom up my counsel<br/> - You'll find it wholesome. Lo, where comes that rock<br/> - That I advise your shunning.<br/> -</p> - -<p> Enter CARDINAL WOLSEY, the purse borne -before - him, certain of the guard, and two SECRETARIES - with papers. The CARDINAL in his passage fixeth his - eye on BUCKINGHAM, and BUCKINGHAM on him, - both full of disdain</p> - -<p> WOLSEY. The Duke of Buckingham's surveyor? Ha!<br/> - Where's his examination?<br/> - SECRETARY. Here, so please you.<br/> - WOLSEY. Is he in person ready?<br/> - SECRETARY. Ay, please your Grace.<br/> - WOLSEY. Well, we shall then know more, and Buckingham<br/> - shall lessen this big look.<br/> - Exeunt WOLSEY and his train<br/> - BUCKINGHAM. This butcher's cur is venom-mouth'd, and I<br/> - Have not the power to muzzle him; therefore best<br/> - Not wake him in his slumber. A beggar's book<br/> - Outworths a noble's blood.<br/> - NORFOLK. What, are you chaf'd?<br/> - Ask God for temp'rance; that's th' appliance only<br/> - Which your disease requires.<br/> - BUCKINGHAM. I read in's looks<br/> - Matter against me, and his eye revil'd<br/> - Me as his abject object. At this instant<br/> - He bores me with some trick. He's gone to th' King;<br/> - I'll follow, and outstare him.<br/> - NORFOLK. Stay, my lord,<br/> - And let your reason with your choler question<br/> - What 'tis you go about. To climb steep hills<br/> - Requires slow pace at first. Anger is like<br/> - A full hot horse, who being allow'd his way,<br/> - Self-mettle tires him. Not a man in England<br/> - Can advise me like you; be to yourself<br/> - As you would to your friend.<br/> - BUCKINGHAM. I'll to the King,<br/> - And from a mouth of honour quite cry down<br/> - This Ipswich fellow's insolence; or proclaim<br/> - There's difference in no persons.<br/> - NORFOLK. Be advis'd:<br/> - Heat not a furnace for your foe so hot<br/> - That it do singe yourself. We may outrun<br/> - By violent swiftness that which we run at,<br/> - And lose by over-running. Know you not<br/> - The fire that mounts the liquor till't run o'er<br/> - In seeming to augment it wastes it? Be advis'd.<br/> - I say again there is no English soul<br/> - More stronger to direct you than yourself,<br/> - If with the sap of reason you would quench<br/> - Or but allay the fire of passion.<br/> - BUCKINGHAM. Sir,<br/> - I am thankful to you, and I'll go along<br/> - By your prescription; but this top-proud fellow-<br/> - Whom from the flow of gan I name not, but<br/> - From sincere motions, by intelligence,<br/> - And proofs as clear as founts in July when<br/> - We see each grain of gravel-I do know<br/> - To be corrupt and treasonous.<br/> - NORFOLK. Say not treasonous.<br/> - BUCKINGHAM. To th' King I'll say't, and make my vouch as strong<br/> - As shore of rock. Attend: this holy fox,<br/> - Or wolf, or both-for he is equal rav'nous<br/> - As he is subtle, and as prone to mischief<br/> - As able to perform't, his mind and place<br/> - Infecting one another, yea, reciprocally-<br/> - Only to show his pomp as well in France<br/> - As here at home, suggests the King our master<br/> - To this last costly treaty, th' interview<br/> - That swallowed so much treasure and like a glass<br/> - Did break i' th' wrenching.<br/> - NORFOLK. Faith, and so it did.<br/> - BUCKINGHAM. Pray, give me favour, sir; this cunning cardinal<br/> - The articles o' th' combination drew<br/> - As himself pleas'd; and they were ratified<br/> - As he cried 'Thus let be' to as much end<br/> - As give a crutch to th' dead. But our Count-Cardinal<br/> - Has done this, and 'tis well; for worthy Wolsey,<br/> - Who cannot err, he did it. Now this follows,<br/> - Which, as I take it, is a kind of puppy<br/> - To th' old dam treason: Charles the Emperor,<br/> - Under pretence to see the Queen his aunt-<br/> - For 'twas indeed his colour, but he came<br/> - To whisper Wolsey-here makes visitation-<br/> - His fears were that the interview betwixt<br/> - England and France might through their amity<br/> - Breed him some prejudice; for from this league<br/> - Peep'd harms that menac'd him-privily<br/> - Deals with our Cardinal; and, as I trow-<br/> - Which I do well, for I am sure the Emperor<br/> - Paid ere he promis'd; whereby his suit was granted<br/> - Ere it was ask'd-but when the way was made,<br/> - And pav'd with gold, the Emperor thus desir'd,<br/> - That he would please to alter the King's course,<br/> - And break the foresaid peace. Let the King know,<br/> - As soon he shall by me, that thus the Cardinal<br/> - Does buy and sell his honour as he pleases,<br/> - And for his own advantage.<br/> - NORFOLK. I am sorry<br/> - To hear this of him, and could wish he were<br/> - Something mistaken in't.<br/> - BUCKINGHAM. No, not a syllable:<br/> - I do pronounce him in that very shape<br/> - He shall appear in proof.<br/> -</p> - -<p> Enter BRANDON, a SERGEANT-AT-ARMS before him,<br/> - and two or three of the guard<br/> -</p> - -<p> BRANDON. Your office, sergeant: execute it.<br/> - SERGEANT. Sir,<br/> - My lord the Duke of Buckingham, and Earl<br/> - Of Hereford, Stafford, and Northampton, I<br/> - Arrest thee of high treason, in the name<br/> - Of our most sovereign King.<br/> - BUCKINGHAM. Lo you, my lord,<br/> - The net has fall'n upon me! I shall perish<br/> - Under device and practice.<br/> - BRANDON. I am sorry<br/> - To see you ta'en from liberty, to look on<br/> - The business present; 'tis his Highness' pleasure<br/> - You shall to th' Tower.<br/> - BUCKINGHAM. It will help nothing<br/> - To plead mine innocence; for that dye is on me<br/> - Which makes my whit'st part black. The will of heav'n<br/> - Be done in this and all things! I obey.<br/> - O my Lord Aberga'ny, fare you well!<br/> - BRANDON. Nay, he must bear you company.<br/> - [To ABERGAVENNY] The King<br/> - Is pleas'd you shall to th' Tower, till you know<br/> - How he determines further.<br/> - ABERGAVENNY. As the Duke said,<br/> - The will of heaven be done, and the King's pleasure<br/> - By me obey'd.<br/> - BRANDON. Here is warrant from<br/> - The King t' attach Lord Montacute and the bodies<br/> - Of the Duke's confessor, John de la Car,<br/> - One Gilbert Peck, his chancellor-<br/> - BUCKINGHAM. So, so!<br/> - These are the limbs o' th' plot; no more, I hope.<br/> - BRANDON. A monk o' th' Chartreux.<br/> - BUCKINGHAM. O, Nicholas Hopkins?<br/> - BRANDON. He.<br/> - BUCKINGHAM. My surveyor is false. The o'er-great Cardinal<br/> - Hath show'd him gold; my life is spann'd already.<br/> - I am the shadow of poor Buckingham,<br/> - Whose figure even this instant cloud puts on<br/> - By dark'ning my clear sun. My lord, farewell.<br/> - Exeunt<br/> -</p> - -<h4>ACT I. SCENE 2.</h4> - -<p>London. The Council Chamber</p> - -<p>Cornets. Enter KING HENRY, leaning on the CARDINAL'S shoulder, the NOBLES, -and SIR THOMAS LOVELL, with others. The CARDINAL places himself -under the KING'S feet on his right side</p> - -<p> KING. My life itself, and the best heart of it,<br/> - Thanks you for this great care; I stood i' th' level<br/> - Of a full-charg'd confederacy, and give thanks<br/> - To you that chok'd it. Let be call'd before us<br/> - That gentleman of Buckingham's. In person<br/> - I'll hear his confessions justify;<br/> - And point by point the treasons of his master<br/> - He shall again relate.<br/> -</p> - -<p> A noise within, crying 'Room for the -Queen!' - Enter the QUEEN, usher'd by the DUKES OF NORFOLK - and SUFFOLK; she kneels. The KING riseth - from his state, takes her up, kisses and placeth her - by him</p> - -<p> QUEEN KATHARINE. Nay, we must longer kneel: I am suitor.<br/> - KING. Arise, and take place by us. Half your suit<br/> - Never name to us: you have half our power.<br/> - The other moiety ere you ask is given;<br/> - Repeat your will, and take it.<br/> - QUEEN KATHARINE. Thank your Majesty.<br/> - That you would love yourself, and in that love<br/> - Not unconsidered leave your honour nor<br/> - The dignity of your office, is the point<br/> - Of my petition.<br/> - KING. Lady mine, proceed.<br/> - QUEEN KATHARINE. I am solicited, not by a few,<br/> - And those of true condition, that your subjects<br/> - Are in great grievance: there have been commissions<br/> - Sent down among 'em which hath flaw'd the heart<br/> - Of all their loyalties; wherein, although,<br/> - My good Lord Cardinal, they vent reproaches<br/> - Most bitterly on you as putter-on<br/> - Of these exactions, yet the King our master-<br/> - Whose honour Heaven shield from soil!-even he escapes not<br/> - Language unmannerly; yea, such which breaks<br/> - The sides of loyalty, and almost appears<br/> - In loud rebellion.<br/> - NORFOLK. Not almost appears-<br/> - It doth appear; for, upon these taxations,<br/> - The clothiers all, not able to maintain<br/> - The many to them 'longing, have put of<br/> - The spinsters, carders, fullers, weavers, who<br/> - Unfit for other life, compell'd by hunger<br/> - And lack of other means, in desperate manner<br/> - Daring th' event to th' teeth, are all in uproar,<br/> - And danger serves among them.<br/> - KING. Taxation!<br/> - Wherein? and what taxation? My Lord Cardinal,<br/> - You that are blam'd for it alike with us,<br/> - Know you of this taxation?<br/> - WOLSEY. Please you, sir,<br/> - I know but of a single part in aught<br/> - Pertains to th' state, and front but in that file<br/> - Where others tell steps with me.<br/> - QUEEN KATHARINE. No, my lord!<br/> - You know no more than others! But you frame<br/> - Things that are known alike, which are not wholesome<br/> - To those which would not know them, and yet must<br/> - Perforce be their acquaintance. These exactions,<br/> - Whereof my sovereign would have note, they are<br/> - Most pestilent to th' hearing; and to bear 'em<br/> - The back is sacrifice to th' load. They say<br/> - They are devis'd by you, or else you suffer<br/> - Too hard an exclamation.<br/> - KING. Still exaction!<br/> - The nature of it? In what kind, let's know,<br/> - Is this exaction?<br/> - QUEEN KATHARINE. I am much too venturous<br/> - In tempting of your patience, but am bold'ned<br/> - Under your promis'd pardon. The subjects' grief<br/> - Comes through commissions, which compels from each<br/> - The sixth part of his substance, to be levied<br/> - Without delay; and the pretence for this<br/> - Is nam'd your wars in France. This makes bold mouths;<br/> - Tongues spit their duties out, and cold hearts freeze<br/> - Allegiance in them; their curses now<br/> - Live where their prayers did; and it's come to pass<br/> - This tractable obedience is a slave<br/> - To each incensed will. I would your Highness<br/> - Would give it quick consideration, for<br/> - There is no primer business.<br/> - KING. By my life,<br/> - This is against our pleasure.<br/> - WOLSEY. And for me,<br/> - I have no further gone in this than by<br/> - A single voice; and that not pass'd me but<br/> - By learned approbation of the judges. If I am<br/> - Traduc'd by ignorant tongues, which neither know<br/> - My faculties nor person, yet will be<br/> - The chronicles of my doing, let me say<br/> - 'Tis but the fate of place, and the rough brake<br/> - That virtue must go through. We must not stint<br/> - Our necessary actions in the fear<br/> - To cope malicious censurers, which ever<br/> - As rav'nous fishes do a vessel follow<br/> - That is new-trimm'd, but benefit no further<br/> - Than vainly longing. What we oft do best,<br/> - By sick interpreters, once weak ones, is<br/> - Not ours, or not allow'd; what worst, as oft<br/> - Hitting a grosser quality, is cried up<br/> - For our best act. If we shall stand still,<br/> - In fear our motion will be mock'd or carp'd at,<br/> - We should take root here where we sit, or sit<br/> - State-statues only.<br/> - KING. Things done well<br/> - And with a care exempt themselves from fear:<br/> - Things done without example, in their issue<br/> - Are to be fear'd. Have you a precedent<br/> - Of this commission? I believe, not any.<br/> - We must not rend our subjects from our laws,<br/> - And stick them in our will. Sixth part of each?<br/> - A trembling contribution! Why, we take<br/> - From every tree lop, bark, and part o' th' timber;<br/> - And though we leave it with a root, thus hack'd,<br/> - The air will drink the sap. To every county<br/> - Where this is question'd send our letters with<br/> - Free pardon to each man that has denied<br/> - The force of this commission. Pray, look tot;<br/> - I put it to your care.<br/> - WOLSEY. [Aside to the SECRETARY] A word with you.<br/> - Let there be letters writ to every shire<br/> - Of the King's grace and pardon. The grieved commons<br/> - Hardly conceive of me-let it be nois'd<br/> - That through our intercession this revokement<br/> - And pardon comes. I shall anon advise you<br/> - Further in the proceeding. Exit SECRETARY<br/> -</p> - -<p> Enter SURVEYOR</p> - -<p> QUEEN KATHARINE. I am sorry that the Duke of Buckingham<br/> - Is run in your displeasure.<br/> - KING. It grieves many.<br/> - The gentleman is learn'd and a most rare speaker;<br/> - To nature none more bound; his training such<br/> - That he may furnish and instruct great teachers<br/> - And never seek for aid out of himself. Yet see,<br/> - When these so noble benefits shall prove<br/> - Not well dispos'd, the mind growing once corrupt,<br/> - They turn to vicious forms, ten times more ugly<br/> - Than ever they were fair. This man so complete,<br/> - Who was enroll'd 'mongst wonders, and when we,<br/> - Almost with ravish'd list'ning, could not find<br/> - His hour of speech a minute-he, my lady,<br/> - Hath into monstrous habits put the graces<br/> - That once were his, and is become as black<br/> - As if besmear'd in hell. Sit by us; you shall hear-<br/> - This was his gentleman in trust-of him<br/> - Things to strike honour sad. Bid him recount<br/> - The fore-recited practices, whereof<br/> - We cannot feel too little, hear too much.<br/> - WOLSEY. Stand forth, and with bold spirit relate what you,<br/> - Most like a careful subject, have collected<br/> - Out of the Duke of Buckingham.<br/> - KING. Speak freely.<br/> - SURVEYOR. First, it was usual with him-every day<br/> - It would infect his speech-that if the King<br/> - Should without issue die, he'll carry it so<br/> - To make the sceptre his. These very words<br/> - I've heard him utter to his son-in-law,<br/> - Lord Aberga'ny, to whom by oath he menac'd<br/> - Revenge upon the Cardinal.<br/> - WOLSEY. Please your Highness, note<br/> - This dangerous conception in this point:<br/> - Not friended by his wish, to your high person<br/> - His will is most malignant, and it stretches<br/> - Beyond you to your friends.<br/> - QUEEN KATHARINE. My learn'd Lord Cardinal,<br/> - Deliver all with charity.<br/> - KING. Speak on.<br/> - How grounded he his title to the crown<br/> - Upon our fail? To this point hast thou heard him<br/> - At any time speak aught?<br/> - SURVEYOR. He was brought to this<br/> - By a vain prophecy of Nicholas Henton.<br/> - KING. What was that Henton?<br/> - SURVEYOR. Sir, a Chartreux friar,<br/> - His confessor, who fed him every minute<br/> - With words of sovereignty.<br/> - KING. How know'st thou this?<br/> - SURVEYOR. Not long before your Highness sped to France,<br/> - The Duke being at the Rose, within the parish<br/> - Saint Lawrence Poultney, did of me demand<br/> - What was the speech among the Londoners<br/> - Concerning the French journey. I replied<br/> - Men fear'd the French would prove perfidious,<br/> - To the King's danger. Presently the Duke<br/> - Said 'twas the fear indeed and that he doubted<br/> - 'Twould prove the verity of certain words<br/> - Spoke by a holy monk 'that oft' says he<br/> - 'Hath sent to me, wishing me to permit<br/> - John de la Car, my chaplain, a choice hour<br/> - To hear from him a matter of some moment;<br/> - Whom after under the confession's seal<br/> - He solemnly had sworn that what he spoke<br/> - My chaplain to no creature living but<br/> - To me should utter, with demure confidence<br/> - This pausingly ensu'd: "Neither the King nor's heirs,<br/> - Tell you the Duke, shall prosper; bid him strive<br/> - To gain the love o' th' commonalty; the Duke<br/> - Shall govern England."'<br/> - QUEEN KATHARINE. If I know you well,<br/> - You were the Duke's surveyor, and lost your office<br/> - On the complaint o' th' tenants. Take good heed<br/> - You charge not in your spleen a noble person<br/> - And spoil your nobler soul. I say, take heed;<br/> - Yes, heartily beseech you.<br/> - KING. Let him on.<br/> - Go forward.<br/> - SURVEYOR. On my soul, I'll speak but truth.<br/> - I told my lord the Duke, by th' devil's illusions<br/> - The monk might be deceiv'd, and that 'twas dangerous<br/> - for him<br/> - To ruminate on this so far, until<br/> - It forg'd him some design, which, being believ'd,<br/> - It was much like to do. He answer'd 'Tush,<br/> - It can do me no damage'; adding further<br/> - That, had the King in his last sickness fail'd,<br/> - The Cardinal's and Sir Thomas Lovell's heads<br/> - Should have gone off.<br/> - KING. Ha! what, so rank? Ah ha!<br/> - There's mischief in this man. Canst thou say further?<br/> - SURVEYOR. I can, my liege.<br/> - KING. Proceed.<br/> - SURVEYOR. Being at Greenwich,<br/> - After your Highness had reprov'd the Duke<br/> - About Sir William Bulmer-<br/> - KING. I remember<br/> - Of such a time: being my sworn servant,<br/> - The Duke retain'd him his. But on: what hence?<br/> - SURVEYOR. 'If' quoth he 'I for this had been committed-<br/> - As to the Tower I thought-I would have play'd<br/> - The part my father meant to act upon<br/> - Th' usurper Richard; who, being at Salisbury,<br/> - Made suit to come in's presence, which if granted,<br/> - As he made semblance of his duty, would<br/> - Have put his knife into him.'<br/> - KING. A giant traitor!<br/> - WOLSEY. Now, madam, may his Highness live in freedom,<br/> - And this man out of prison?<br/> - QUEEN KATHARINE. God mend all!<br/> - KING. There's something more would out of thee: what say'st?<br/> - SURVEYOR. After 'the Duke his father' with the 'knife,'<br/> - He stretch'd him, and, with one hand on his dagger,<br/> - Another spread on's breast, mounting his eyes,<br/> - He did discharge a horrible oath, whose tenour<br/> - Was, were he evil us'd, he would outgo<br/> - His father by as much as a performance<br/> - Does an irresolute purpose.<br/> - KING. There's his period,<br/> - To sheath his knife in us. He is attach'd;<br/> - Call him to present trial. If he may<br/> - Find mercy in the law, 'tis his; if none,<br/> - Let him not seek't of us. By day and night!<br/> - He's traitor to th' height. Exeunt<br/> -</p> - -<h4>ACT I. SCENE 3.</h4> - -<p>London. The palace</p> - -<p>Enter the LORD CHAMBERLAIN and LORD SANDYS</p> - -<p> CHAMBERLAIN. Is't possible the spells of France should juggle<br/> - Men into such strange mysteries?<br/> - SANDYS. New customs,<br/> - Though they be never so ridiculous,<br/> - Nay, let 'em be unmanly, yet are follow'd.<br/> - CHAMBERLAIN. As far as I see, all the good our English<br/> - Have got by the late voyage is but merely<br/> - A fit or two o' th' face; but they are shrewd ones;<br/> - For when they hold 'em, you would swear directly<br/> - Their very noses had been counsellors<br/> - To Pepin or Clotharius, they keep state so.<br/> - SANDYS. They have all new legs, and lame ones. One would take it,<br/> - That never saw 'em pace before, the spavin<br/> - Or springhalt reign'd among 'em.<br/> - CHAMBERLAIN. Death! my lord,<br/> - Their clothes are after such a pagan cut to't,<br/> - That sure th' have worn out Christendom.<br/> -</p> - -<p> Enter SIR THOMAS LOVELL</p> +<p class="drama"> +CARDINAL WOLSEY<br/> +SECRETARIES to Wolsey<br/> +CROMWELL, servant to Wolsey<br/> +CARDINAL CAMPEIUS<br/> +GARDINER, Bishop of Winchester<br/> +PAGE to Gardiner<br/> +</p> -<p> How now?<br/> - What news, Sir Thomas Lovell?<br/> - LOVELL. Faith, my lord,<br/> - I hear of none but the new proclamation<br/> - That's clapp'd upon the court gate.<br/> - CHAMBERLAIN. What is't for?<br/> - LOVELL. The reformation of our travell'd gallants,<br/> - That fill the court with quarrels, talk, and tailors.<br/> - CHAMBERLAIN. I am glad 'tis there. Now I would pray our monsieurs<br/> - To think an English courtier may be wise,<br/> - And never see the Louvre.<br/> - LOVELL. They must either,<br/> - For so run the conditions, leave those remnants<br/> - Of fool and feather that they got in France,<br/> - With all their honourable points of ignorance<br/> - Pertaining thereunto-as fights and fireworks;<br/> - Abusing better men than they can be,<br/> - Out of a foreign wisdom-renouncing clean<br/> - The faith they have in tennis, and tall stockings,<br/> - Short blist'red breeches, and those types of travel<br/> - And understand again like honest men,<br/> - Or pack to their old playfellows. There, I take it,<br/> - They may, cum privilegio, wear away<br/> - The lag end of their lewdness and be laugh'd at.<br/> - SANDYS. 'Tis time to give 'em physic, their diseases<br/> - Are grown so catching.<br/> - CHAMBERLAIN. What a loss our ladies<br/> - Will have of these trim vanities!<br/> - LOVELL. Ay, marry,<br/> - There will be woe indeed, lords: the sly whoresons<br/> - Have got a speeding trick to lay down ladies.<br/> - A French song and a fiddle has no fellow.<br/> - SANDYS. The devil fiddle 'em! I am glad they are going,<br/> - For sure there's no converting 'em. Now<br/> - An honest country lord, as I am, beaten<br/> - A long time out of play, may bring his plainsong<br/> - And have an hour of hearing; and, by'r Lady,<br/> - Held current music too.<br/> - CHAMBERLAIN. Well said, Lord Sandys;<br/> - Your colt's tooth is not cast yet.<br/> - SANDYS. No, my lord,<br/> - Nor shall not while I have a stamp.<br/> - CHAMBERLAIN. Sir Thomas,<br/> - Whither were you a-going?<br/> - LOVELL. To the Cardinal's;<br/> - Your lordship is a guest too.<br/> - CHAMBERLAIN. O, 'tis true;<br/> - This night he makes a supper, and a great one,<br/> - To many lords and ladies; there will be<br/> - The beauty of this kingdom, I'll assure you.<br/> - LOVELL. That churchman bears a bounteous mind indeed,<br/> - A hand as fruitful as the land that feeds us;<br/> - His dews fall everywhere.<br/> - CHAMBERLAIN. No doubt he's noble;<br/> - He had a black mouth that said other of him.<br/> - SANDYS. He may, my lord; has wherewithal. In him<br/> - Sparing would show a worse sin than ill doctrine:<br/> - Men of his way should be most liberal,<br/> - They are set here for examples.<br/> - CHAMBERLAIN. True, they are so;<br/> - But few now give so great ones. My barge stays;<br/> - Your lordship shall along. Come, good Sir Thomas,<br/> - We shall be late else; which I would not be,<br/> - For I was spoke to, with Sir Henry Guildford,<br/> - This night to be comptrollers.<br/> - SANDYS. I am your lordship's. Exeunt<br/> -</p> - -<h4>ACT I. SCENE 4.</h4> - -<p>London. The Presence Chamber in York Place</p> - -<p>Hautboys. A small table under a state for the Cardinal, -a longer table for the guests. Then enter ANNE BULLEN, -and divers other LADIES and GENTLEMEN, as guests, at one door; -at another door enter SIR HENRY GUILDFORD</p> - -<p> GUILDFORD. Ladies, a general welcome from his Grace<br/> - Salutes ye all; this night he dedicates<br/> - To fair content and you. None here, he hopes,<br/> - In all this noble bevy, has brought with her<br/> - One care abroad; he would have all as merry<br/> - As, first, good company, good wine, good welcome,<br/> - Can make good people.<br/> -</p> - -<p> Enter LORD CHAMBERLAIN, LORD SANDYS, and SIR<br/> - THOMAS LOVELL<br/> -</p> - -<p> O, my lord, y'are tardy,<br/> - The very thought of this fair company<br/> - Clapp'd wings to me.<br/> - CHAMBERLAIN. You are young, Sir Harry Guildford.<br/> - SANDYS. Sir Thomas Lovell, had the Cardinal<br/> - But half my lay thoughts in him, some of these<br/> - Should find a running banquet ere they rested<br/> - I think would better please 'em. By my life,<br/> - They are a sweet society of fair ones.<br/> - LOVELL. O that your lordship were but now confessor<br/> - To one or two of these!<br/> - SANDYS. I would I were;<br/> - They should find easy penance.<br/> - LOVELL. Faith, how easy?<br/> - SANDYS. As easy as a down bed would afford it.<br/> - CHAMBERLAIN. Sweet ladies, will it please you sit? Sir Harry,<br/> - Place you that side; I'll take the charge of this.<br/> - His Grace is ent'ring. Nay, you must not freeze:<br/> - Two women plac'd together makes cold weather.<br/> - My Lord Sandys, you are one will keep 'em waking:<br/> - Pray sit between these ladies.<br/> - SANDYS. By my faith,<br/> - And thank your lordship. By your leave, sweet ladies.<br/> - [Seats himself between ANNE BULLEN and another lady]<br/> - If I chance to talk a little wild, forgive me;<br/> - I had it from my father.<br/> - ANNE. Was he mad, sir?<br/> - SANDYS. O, very mad, exceeding mad, in love too.<br/> - But he would bite none; just as I do now,<br/> - He would kiss you twenty with a breath. [Kisses her]<br/> - CHAMBERLAIN. Well said, my lord.<br/> - So, now y'are fairly seated. Gentlemen,<br/> - The penance lies on you if these fair ladies<br/> - Pass away frowning.<br/> - SANDYS. For my little cure,<br/> - Let me alone.<br/> -</p> - -<p> Hautboys. Enter CARDINAL WOLSEY, attended; and<br/> - takes his state<br/> -</p> - -<p> WOLSEY. Y'are welcome, my fair guests. That noble lady<br/> - Or gentleman that is not freely merry<br/> - Is not my friend. This, to confirm my welcome-<br/> - And to you all, good health! [Drinks]<br/> - SANDYS. Your Grace is noble.<br/> - Let me have such a bowl may hold my thanks<br/> - And save me so much talking.<br/> - WOLSEY. My Lord Sandys,<br/> - I am beholding to you. Cheer your neighbours.<br/> - Ladies, you are not merry. Gentlemen,<br/> - Whose fault is this?<br/> - SANDYS. The red wine first must rise<br/> - In their fair cheeks, my lord; then we shall have 'em<br/> - Talk us to silence.<br/> - ANNE. You are a merry gamester,<br/> - My Lord Sandys.<br/> - SANDYS. Yes, if I make my play.<br/> - Here's to your ladyship; and pledge it, madam,<br/> - For 'tis to such a thing-<br/> - ANNE. You cannot show me.<br/> - SANDYS. I told your Grace they would talk anon.<br/> - [Drum and trumpet. Chambers discharg'd]<br/> - WOLSEY. What's that?<br/> - CHAMBERLAIN. Look out there, some of ye. Exit a SERVANT<br/> - WOLSEY. What warlike voice,<br/> - And to what end, is this? Nay, ladies, fear not:<br/> - By all the laws of war y'are privileg'd.<br/> -</p> - -<p> Re-enter SERVANT</p> - -<p> CHAMBERLAIN. How now! what is't?<br/> - SERVANT. A noble troop of strangers-<br/> - For so they seem. Th' have left their barge and landed,<br/> - And hither make, as great ambassadors<br/> - From foreign princes.<br/> - WOLSEY. Good Lord Chamberlain,<br/> - Go, give 'em welcome; you can speak the French tongue;<br/> - And pray receive 'em nobly and conduct 'em<br/> - Into our presence, where this heaven of beauty<br/> - Shall shine at full upon them. Some attend him.<br/> - Exit CHAMBERLAIN attended. All rise, and tables remov'd<br/> - You have now a broken banquet, but we'll mend it.<br/> - A good digestion to you all; and once more<br/> - I show'r a welcome on ye; welcome all.<br/> -</p> - -<p> Hautboys. Enter the KING, and others, as maskers,<br/> - habited like shepherds, usher'd by the LORD CHAMBERLAIN.<br/> - They pass directly before the CARDINAL,<br/> - and gracefully salute him<br/> -</p> - -<p> A noble company! What are their pleasures?<br/> - CHAMBERLAIN. Because they speak no English, thus they pray'd<br/> - To tell your Grace, that, having heard by fame<br/> - Of this so noble and so fair assembly<br/> - This night to meet here, they could do no less,<br/> - Out of the great respect they bear to beauty,<br/> - But leave their flocks and, under your fair conduct,<br/> - Crave leave to view these ladies and entreat<br/> - An hour of revels with 'em.<br/> - WOLSEY. Say, Lord Chamberlain,<br/> - They have done my poor house grace; for which I pay 'em<br/> - A thousand thanks, and pray 'em take their pleasures.<br/> - [They choose ladies. The KING chooses ANNE BULLEN]<br/> - KING. The fairest hand I ever touch'd! O beauty,<br/> - Till now I never knew thee! [Music. Dance]<br/> - WOLSEY. My lord!<br/> - CHAMBERLAIN. Your Grace?<br/> - WOLSEY. Pray tell 'em thus much from me:<br/> - There should be one amongst 'em, by his person,<br/> - More worthy this place than myself; to whom,<br/> - If I but knew him, with my love and duty<br/> - I would surrender it.<br/> - CHAMBERLAIN. I will, my lord.<br/> - [He whispers to the maskers]<br/> - WOLSEY. What say they?<br/> - CHAMBERLAIN. Such a one, they all confess,<br/> - There is indeed; which they would have your Grace<br/> - Find out, and he will take it.<br/> - WOLSEY. Let me see, then. [Comes from his state]<br/> - By all your good leaves, gentlemen, here I'll make<br/> - My royal choice.<br/> - KING. [Unmasking] Ye have found him, Cardinal.<br/> - You hold a fair assembly; you do well, lord.<br/> - You are a churchman, or, I'll tell you, Cardinal,<br/> - I should judge now unhappily.<br/> - WOLSEY. I am glad<br/> - Your Grace is grown so pleasant.<br/> - KING. My Lord Chamberlain,<br/> - Prithee come hither: what fair lady's that?<br/> - CHAMBERLAIN. An't please your Grace, Sir Thomas Bullen's<br/> - daughter-<br/> - The Viscount Rochford-one of her Highness' women.<br/> - KING. By heaven, she is a dainty one. Sweet heart,<br/> - I were unmannerly to take you out<br/> - And not to kiss you. A health, gentlemen!<br/> - Let it go round.<br/> - WOLSEY. Sir Thomas Lovell, is the banquet ready<br/> - I' th' privy chamber?<br/> - LOVELL. Yes, my lord.<br/> - WOLSEY. Your Grace,<br/> - I fear, with dancing is a little heated.<br/> - KING. I fear, too much.<br/> - WOLSEY. There's fresher air, my lord,<br/> - In the next chamber.<br/> - KING. Lead in your ladies, ev'ry one. Sweet partner,<br/> - I must not yet forsake you. Let's be merry:<br/> - Good my Lord Cardinal, I have half a dozen healths<br/> - To drink to these fair ladies, and a measure<br/> - To lead 'em once again; and then let's dream<br/> - Who's best in favour. Let the music knock it.<br/> - Exeunt, with trumpets<br/> +<p class="drama"> +QUEEN KATHERINE, wife to King Henry, afterwards divorced<br/> +GRIFFITH, gentleman usher to Queen Katherine<br/> +PATIENCE, woman to Queen Katherine<br/> +Queen’s GENTLEMAN USHER<br/> +CAPUTIUS, Ambassador from the Emperor Charles V<br/> </p> -<h4>ACT II. SCENE 1.</h4> +<p class="drama"> +DUKE OF BUCKINGHAM<br/> +LORD ABERGAVENNY, Buckingham’s son-in-law<br/> +EARL OF SURREY, Buckingham’s son-in-law<br/> +SIR NICHOLAS VAUX<br/> +SURVEYOR to the Duke of Buckingham<br/> +BRANDON<br/> +SERGEANT-at-Arms<br/> +Three Gentlemen<br/> +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +ANNE BULLEN, her Maid of Honour, afterwards Queen<br/> +An OLD LADY, friend to Anne Bullen<br/> +LORD CHAMBERLAIN<br/> +LORD SANDYS (called also SIR WILLIAM SANDYS)<br/> +SIR THOMAS LOVELL<br/> +SIR HENRY GUILDFORD<br/> +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +BISHOP OF LINCOLN<br/> +CRANMER, archbishop of Canterbury<br/> +LORD CHANCELLOR<br/> +GARTER King-of-Arms<br/> +SIR ANTHONY DENNY<br/> +DOCTOR BUTTS, physician to the King<br/> +Door-KEEPER of the Council-chamber<br/> +PORTER, and his Man<br/> +A CRIER<br/> +PROLOGUE<br/> +EPILOGUE +</p> -<p>Westminster. A street</p> - -<p>Enter two GENTLEMEN, at several doors</p> - -<p> FIRST GENTLEMAN. Whither away so fast?<br/> - SECOND GENTLEMAN. O, God save ye!<br/> - Ev'n to the Hall, to hear what shall become<br/> - Of the great Duke of Buckingham.<br/> - FIRST GENTLEMAN. I'll save you<br/> - That labour, sir. All's now done but the ceremony<br/> - Of bringing back the prisoner.<br/> - SECOND GENTLEMAN. Were you there?<br/> - FIRST GENTLEMAN. Yes, indeed, was I.<br/> - SECOND GENTLEMAN. Pray, speak what has happen'd.<br/> - FIRST GENTLEMAN. You may guess quickly what.<br/> - SECOND GENTLEMAN. Is he found guilty?<br/> - FIRST GENTLEMAN. Yes, truly is he, and condemn'd upon't.<br/> - SECOND GENTLEMAN. I am sorry for't.<br/> - FIRST GENTLEMAN. So are a number more.<br/> - SECOND GENTLEMAN. But, pray, how pass'd it?<br/> - FIRST GENTLEMAN. I'll tell you in a little. The great Duke.<br/> - Came to the bar; where to his accusations<br/> - He pleaded still not guilty, and alleged<br/> - Many sharp reasons to defeat the law.<br/> - The King's attorney, on the contrary,<br/> - Urg'd on the examinations, proofs, confessions,<br/> - Of divers witnesses; which the Duke desir'd<br/> - To have brought, viva voce, to his face;<br/> - At which appear'd against him his surveyor,<br/> - Sir Gilbert Peck his chancellor, and John Car,<br/> - Confessor to him, with that devil-monk,<br/> - Hopkins, that made this mischief.<br/> - SECOND GENTLEMAN. That was he<br/> - That fed him with his prophecies?<br/> - FIRST GENTLEMAN. The same.<br/> - All these accus'd him strongly, which he fain<br/> - Would have flung from him; but indeed he could not;<br/> - And so his peers, upon this evidence,<br/> - Have found him guilty of high treason. Much<br/> - He spoke, and learnedly, for life; but all<br/> - Was either pitied in him or forgotten.<br/> - SECOND GENTLEMAN. After all this, how did he bear him-self<br/> - FIRST GENTLEMAN. When he was brought again to th' bar to hear<br/> - His knell rung out, his judgment, he was stirr'd<br/> - With such an agony he sweat extremely,<br/> - And something spoke in choler, ill and hasty;<br/> - But he fell to himself again, and sweetly<br/> - In all the rest show'd a most noble patience.<br/> - SECOND GENTLEMAN. I do not think he fears death.<br/> - FIRST GENTLEMAN. Sure, he does not;<br/> - He never was so womanish; the cause<br/> - He may a little grieve at.<br/> - SECOND GENTLEMAN. Certainly<br/> - The Cardinal is the end of this.<br/> - FIRST GENTLEMAN. 'Tis likely,<br/> - By all conjectures: first, Kildare's attainder,<br/> - Then deputy of Ireland, who remov'd,<br/> - Earl Surrey was sent thither, and in haste too,<br/> - Lest he should help his father.<br/> - SECOND GENTLEMAN. That trick of state<br/> - Was a deep envious one.<br/> - FIRST GENTLEMAN. At his return<br/> - No doubt he will requite it. This is noted,<br/> - And generally: whoever the King favours<br/> - The Cardinal instantly will find employment,<br/> - And far enough from court too.<br/> - SECOND GENTLEMAN. All the commons<br/> - Hate him perniciously, and, o' my conscience,<br/> - Wish him ten fathom deep: this Duke as much<br/> - They love and dote on; call him bounteous Buckingham,<br/> - The mirror of all courtesy-<br/> -</p> - -<p> Enter BUCKINGHAM from his arraignment, tip-staves<br/> - before him; the axe with the edge towards him; halberds<br/> - on each side; accompanied with SIR THOMAS<br/> - LOVELL, SIR NICHOLAS VAUX, SIR WILLIAM SANDYS,<br/> - and common people, etc.<br/> -</p> - -<p> FIRST GENTLEMAN. Stay there, sir,<br/> - And see the noble ruin'd man you speak of.<br/> - SECOND GENTLEMAN. Let's stand close, and behold him.<br/> - BUCKINGHAM. All good people,<br/> - You that thus far have come to pity me,<br/> - Hear what I say, and then go home and lose me.<br/> - I have this day receiv'd a traitor's judgment,<br/> - And by that name must die; yet, heaven bear witness,<br/> - And if I have a conscience, let it sink me<br/> - Even as the axe falls, if I be not faithful!<br/> - The law I bear no malice for my death:<br/> - 'T has done, upon the premises, but justice.<br/> - But those that sought it I could wish more Christians.<br/> - Be what they will, I heartily forgive 'em;<br/> - Yet let 'em look they glory not in mischief<br/> - Nor build their evils on the graves of great men,<br/> - For then my guiltless blood must cry against 'em.<br/> - For further life in this world I ne'er hope<br/> - Nor will I sue, although the King have mercies<br/> - More than I dare make faults. You few that lov'd me<br/> - And dare be bold to weep for Buckingham,<br/> - His noble friends and fellows, whom to leave<br/> - Is only bitter to him, only dying,<br/> - Go with me like good angels to my end;<br/> - And as the long divorce of steel falls on me<br/> - Make of your prayers one sweet sacrifice,<br/> - And lift my soul to heaven. Lead on, a God's name.<br/> - LOVELL. I do beseech your Grace, for charity,<br/> - If ever any malice in your heart<br/> - Were hid against me, now to forgive me frankly.<br/> - BUCKINGHAM. Sir Thomas Lovell, I as free forgive you<br/> - As I would be forgiven. I forgive all.<br/> - There cannot be those numberless offences<br/> - 'Gainst me that I cannot take peace with. No black envy<br/> - Shall mark my grave. Commend me to his Grace;<br/> - And if he speak of Buckingham, pray tell him<br/> - You met him half in heaven. My vows and prayers<br/> - Yet are the King's, and, till my soul forsake,<br/> - Shall cry for blessings on him. May he live<br/> - Longer than I have time to tell his years;<br/> - Ever belov'd and loving may his rule be;<br/> - And when old time Shall lead him to his end,<br/> - Goodness and he fill up one monument!<br/> - LOVELL. To th' water side I must conduct your Grace;<br/> - Then give my charge up to Sir Nicholas Vaux,<br/> - Who undertakes you to your end.<br/> - VAUX. Prepare there;<br/> - The Duke is coming; see the barge be ready;<br/> - And fit it with such furniture as suits<br/> - The greatness of his person.<br/> - BUCKINGHAM. Nay, Sir Nicholas,<br/> - Let it alone; my state now will but mock me.<br/> - When I came hither I was Lord High Constable<br/> - And Duke of Buckingham; now, poor Edward Bohun.<br/> - Yet I am richer than my base accusers<br/> - That never knew what truth meant; I now seal it;<br/> - And with that blood will make 'em one day groan fort.<br/> - My noble father, Henry of Buckingham,<br/> - Who first rais'd head against usurping Richard,<br/> - Flying for succour to his servant Banister,<br/> - Being distress'd, was by that wretch betray'd<br/> - And without trial fell; God's peace be with him!<br/> - Henry the Seventh succeeding, truly pitying<br/> - My father's loss, like a most royal prince,<br/> - Restor'd me to my honours, and out of ruins<br/> - Made my name once more noble. Now his son,<br/> - Henry the Eighth, life, honour, name, and all<br/> - That made me happy, at one stroke has taken<br/> - For ever from the world. I had my trial,<br/> - And must needs say a noble one; which makes me<br/> - A little happier than my wretched father;<br/> - Yet thus far we are one in fortunes: both<br/> - Fell by our servants, by those men we lov'd most-<br/> - A most unnatural and faithless service.<br/> - Heaven has an end in all. Yet, you that hear me,<br/> - This from a dying man receive as certain:<br/> - Where you are liberal of your loves and counsels,<br/> - Be sure you be not loose; for those you make friends<br/> - And give your hearts to, when they once perceive<br/> - The least rub in your fortunes, fall away<br/> - Like water from ye, never found again<br/> - But where they mean to sink ye. All good people,<br/> - Pray for me! I must now forsake ye; the last hour<br/> - Of my long weary life is come upon me.<br/> - Farewell;<br/> - And when you would say something that is sad,<br/> - Speak how I fell. I have done; and God forgive me!<br/> - Exeunt BUCKINGHAM and train<br/> - FIRST GENTLEMAN. O, this is full of pity! Sir, it calls,<br/> - I fear, too many curses on their heads<br/> - That were the authors.<br/> - SECOND GENTLEMAN. If the Duke be guiltless,<br/> - 'Tis full of woe; yet I can give you inkling<br/> - Of an ensuing evil, if it fall,<br/> - Greater than this.<br/> - FIRST GENTLEMAN. Good angels keep it from us!<br/> - What may it be? You do not doubt my faith, sir?<br/> - SECOND GENTLEMAN. This secret is so weighty, 'twill require<br/> - A strong faith to conceal it.<br/> - FIRST GENTLEMAN. Let me have it;<br/> - I do not talk much.<br/> - SECOND GENTLEMAN. I am confident.<br/> - You shall, sir. Did you not of late days hear<br/> - A buzzing of a separation<br/> - Between the King and Katharine?<br/> - FIRST GENTLEMAN. Yes, but it held not;<br/> - For when the King once heard it, out of anger<br/> - He sent command to the Lord Mayor straight<br/> - To stop the rumour and allay those tongues<br/> - That durst disperse it.<br/> - SECOND GENTLEMAN. But that slander, sir,<br/> - Is found a truth now; for it grows again<br/> - Fresher than e'er it was, and held for certain<br/> - The King will venture at it. Either the Cardinal<br/> - Or some about him near have, out of malice<br/> - To the good Queen, possess'd him with a scruple<br/> - That will undo her. To confirm this too,<br/> - Cardinal Campeius is arriv'd and lately;<br/> - As all think, for this business.<br/> - FIRST GENTLEMAN. 'Tis the Cardinal;<br/> - And merely to revenge him on the Emperor<br/> - For not bestowing on him at his asking<br/> - The archbishopric of Toledo, this is purpos'd.<br/> - SECOND GENTLEMAN. I think you have hit the mark; but is't<br/> - not cruel<br/> - That she should feel the smart of this? The Cardinal<br/> - Will have his will, and she must fall.<br/> - FIRST GENTLEMAN. 'Tis woeful.<br/> - We are too open here to argue this;<br/> - Let's think in private more. Exeunt<br/> -</p> - -<h4>ACT II. SCENE 2.</h4> - -<p>London. The palace</p> - -<p>Enter the LORD CHAMBERLAIN reading this letter</p> - -<p> CHAMBERLAIN. 'My lord,<br/> - 'The horses your lordship sent for, with all the care<br/> - had, I saw well chosen, ridden, and furnish'd. They were<br/> - young and handsome, and of the best breed in the north.<br/> - When they were ready to set out for London, a man of<br/> - my Lord Cardinal's, by commission, and main power, took<br/> - 'em from me, with this reason: his master would be serv'd<br/> - before a subject, if not before the King; which stopp'd<br/> - our mouths, sir.'<br/> -</p> - -<p> I fear he will indeed. Well, let him have them.<br/> - He will have all, I think.<br/> -</p> - -<p> Enter to the LORD CHAMBERLAIN the DUKES OF NORFOLK and SUFFOLK</p> - -<p> NORFOLK. Well met, my Lord Chamberlain.<br/> - CHAMBERLAIN. Good day to both your Graces.<br/> - SUFFOLK. How is the King employ'd?<br/> - CHAMBERLAIN. I left him private,<br/> - Full of sad thoughts and troubles.<br/> - NORFOLK. What's the cause?<br/> - CHAMBERLAIN. It seems the marriage with his brother's wife<br/> - Has crept too near his conscience.<br/> - SUFFOLK. No, his conscience<br/> - Has crept too near another lady.<br/> - NORFOLK. 'Tis so;<br/> - This is the Cardinal's doing; the King-Cardinal,<br/> - That blind priest, like the eldest son of fortune,<br/> - Turns what he list. The King will know him one day.<br/> - SUFFOLK. Pray God he do! He'll never know himself else.<br/> - NORFOLK. How holily he works in all his business!<br/> - And with what zeal! For, now he has crack'd the league<br/> - Between us and the Emperor, the Queen's great nephew,<br/> - He dives into the King's soul and there scatters<br/> - Dangers, doubts, wringing of the conscience,<br/> - Fears, and despairs-and all these for his marriage;<br/> - And out of all these to restore the King,<br/> - He counsels a divorce, a loss of her<br/> - That like a jewel has hung twenty years<br/> - About his neck, yet never lost her lustre;<br/> - Of her that loves him with that excellence<br/> - That angels love good men with; even of her<br/> - That, when the greatest stroke of fortune falls,<br/> - Will bless the King-and is not this course pious?<br/> - CHAMBERLAIN. Heaven keep me from such counsel! 'Tis most true<br/> - These news are everywhere; every tongue speaks 'em,<br/> - And every true heart weeps for 't. All that dare<br/> - Look into these affairs see this main end-<br/> - The French King's sister. Heaven will one day open<br/> - The King's eyes, that so long have slept upon<br/> - This bold bad man.<br/> - SUFFOLK. And free us from his slavery.<br/> - NORFOLK. We had need pray, and heartily, for our deliverance;<br/> - Or this imperious man will work us an<br/> - From princes into pages. All men's honours<br/> - Lie like one lump before him, to be fashion'd<br/> - Into what pitch he please.<br/> - SUFFOLK. For me, my lords,<br/> - I love him not, nor fear him-there's my creed;<br/> - As I am made without him, so I'll stand,<br/> - If the King please; his curses and his blessings<br/> - Touch me alike; th' are breath I not believe in.<br/> - I knew him, and I know him; so I leave him<br/> - To him that made him proud-the Pope.<br/> - NORFOLK. Let's in;<br/> - And with some other business put the King<br/> - From these sad thoughts that work too much upon him.<br/> - My lord, you'll bear us company?<br/> - CHAMBERLAIN. Excuse me,<br/> - The King has sent me otherwhere; besides,<br/> - You'll find a most unfit time to disturb him.<br/> - Health to your lordships!<br/> - NORFOLK. Thanks, my good Lord Chamberlain.<br/> - Exit LORD CHAMBERLAIN; and the KING draws<br/> - the curtain and sits reading pensively<br/> - SUFFOLK. How sad he looks; sure, he is much afflicted.<br/> - KING. Who's there, ha?<br/> - NORFOLK. Pray God he be not angry.<br/> - KING HENRY. Who's there, I say? How dare you thrust yourselves<br/> - Into my private meditations?<br/> - Who am I, ha?<br/> - NORFOLK. A gracious king that pardons all offences<br/> - Malice ne'er meant. Our breach of duty this way<br/> - Is business of estate, in which we come<br/> - To know your royal pleasure.<br/> - KING. Ye are too bold.<br/> - Go to; I'll make ye know your times of business.<br/> - Is this an hour for temporal affairs, ha?<br/> -</p> - -<p> Enter WOLSEY and CAMPEIUS with a commission</p> - -<p> Who's there? My good Lord Cardinal? O my Wolsey,<br/> - The quiet of my wounded conscience,<br/> - Thou art a cure fit for a King. [To CAMPEIUS] You're<br/> - welcome,<br/> - Most learned reverend sir, into our kingdom.<br/> - Use us and it. [To WOLSEY] My good lord, have great care<br/> - I be not found a talker.<br/> - WOLSEY. Sir, you cannot.<br/> - I would your Grace would give us but an hour<br/> - Of private conference.<br/> - KING. [To NORFOLK and SUFFOLK] We are busy; go.<br/> - NORFOLK. [Aside to SUFFOLK] This priest has no pride in him!<br/> - SUFFOLK. [Aside to NORFOLK] Not to speak of!<br/> - I would not be so sick though for his place.<br/> - But this cannot continue.<br/> - NORFOLK. [Aside to SUFFOLK] If it do,<br/> - I'll venture one have-at-him.<br/> - SUFFOLK. [Aside to NORFOLK] I another.<br/> - Exeunt NORFOLK and SUFFOLK<br/> - WOLSEY. Your Grace has given a precedent of wisdom<br/> - Above all princes, in committing freely<br/> - Your scruple to the voice of Christendom.<br/> - Who can be angry now? What envy reach you?<br/> - The Spaniard, tied by blood and favour to her,<br/> - Must now confess, if they have any goodness,<br/> - The trial just and noble. All the clerks,<br/> - I mean the learned ones, in Christian kingdoms<br/> - Have their free voices. Rome the nurse of judgment,<br/> - Invited by your noble self, hath sent<br/> - One general tongue unto us, this good man,<br/> - This just and learned priest, Cardinal Campeius,<br/> - Whom once more I present unto your Highness.<br/> - KING. And once more in mine arms I bid him welcome,<br/> - And thank the holy conclave for their loves.<br/> - They have sent me such a man I would have wish'd for.<br/> - CAMPEIUS. Your Grace must needs deserve an strangers' loves,<br/> - You are so noble. To your Highness' hand<br/> - I tender my commission; by whose virtue-<br/> - The court of Rome commanding-you, my Lord<br/> - Cardinal of York, are join'd with me their servant<br/> - In the unpartial judging of this business.<br/> - KING. Two equal men. The Queen shall be acquainted<br/> - Forthwith for what you come. Where's Gardiner?<br/> - WOLSEY. I know your Majesty has always lov'd her<br/> - So dear in heart not to deny her that<br/> - A woman of less place might ask by law-<br/> - Scholars allow'd freely to argue for her.<br/> - KING. Ay, and the best she shall have; and my favour<br/> - To him that does best. God forbid else. Cardinal,<br/> - Prithee call Gardiner to me, my new secretary;<br/> - I find him a fit fellow. Exit WOLSEY<br/> -</p> - -<p> Re-enter WOLSEY with GARDINER</p> - -<p> WOLSEY. [Aside to GARDINER] Give me your hand: much<br/> - joy and favour to you;<br/> - You are the King's now.<br/> - GARDINER. [Aside to WOLSEY] But to be commanded<br/> - For ever by your Grace, whose hand has rais'd me.<br/> - KING. Come hither, Gardiner. [Walks and whispers]<br/> - CAMPEIUS. My Lord of York, was not one Doctor Pace<br/> - In this man's place before him?<br/> - WOLSEY. Yes, he was.<br/> - CAMPEIUS. Was he not held a learned man?<br/> - WOLSEY. Yes, surely.<br/> - CAMPEIUS. Believe me, there's an ill opinion spread then,<br/> - Even of yourself, Lord Cardinal.<br/> - WOLSEY. How! Of me?<br/> - CAMPEIUS. They will not stick to say you envied him<br/> - And, fearing he would rise, he was so virtuous,<br/> - Kept him a foreign man still; which so griev'd him<br/> - That he ran mad and died.<br/> - WOLSEY. Heav'n's peace be with him!<br/> - That's Christian care enough. For living murmurers<br/> - There's places of rebuke. He was a fool,<br/> - For he would needs be virtuous: that good fellow,<br/> - If I command him, follows my appointment.<br/> - I will have none so near else. Learn this, brother,<br/> - We live not to be grip'd by meaner persons.<br/> - KING. Deliver this with modesty to th' Queen.<br/> - Exit GARDINER<br/> - The most convenient place that I can think of<br/> - For such receipt of learning is Blackfriars;<br/> - There ye shall meet about this weighty business-<br/> - My Wolsey, see it furnish'd. O, my lord,<br/> - Would it not grieve an able man to leave<br/> - So sweet a bedfellow? But, conscience, conscience!<br/> - O, 'tis a tender place! and I must leave her. Exeunt<br/> -</p> - -<h4>ACT II. SCENE 3.</h4> - -<p>London. The palace</p> - -<p>Enter ANNE BULLEN and an OLD LADY</p> - -<p> ANNE. Not for that neither. Here's the pang that pinches:<br/> - His Highness having liv'd so long with her, and she<br/> - So good a lady that no tongue could ever<br/> - Pronounce dishonour of her-by my life,<br/> - She never knew harm-doing-O, now, after<br/> - So many courses of the sun enthroned,<br/> - Still growing in a majesty and pomp, the which<br/> - To leave a thousand-fold more bitter than<br/> - 'Tis sweet at first t' acquire-after this process,<br/> - To give her the avaunt, it is a pity<br/> - Would move a monster.<br/> - OLD LADY. Hearts of most hard temper<br/> - Melt and lament for her.<br/> - ANNE. O, God's will! much better<br/> - She ne'er had known pomp; though't be temporal,<br/> - Yet, if that quarrel, fortune, do divorce<br/> - It from the bearer, 'tis a sufferance panging<br/> - As soul and body's severing.<br/> - OLD LADY. Alas, poor lady!<br/> - She's a stranger now again.<br/> - ANNE. So much the more<br/> - Must pity drop upon her. Verily,<br/> - I swear 'tis better to be lowly born<br/> - And range with humble livers in content<br/> - Than to be perk'd up in a glist'ring grief<br/> - And wear a golden sorrow.<br/> - OLD LADY. Our content<br/> - Is our best having.<br/> - ANNE. By my troth and maidenhead,<br/> - I would not be a queen.<br/> - OLD LADY. Beshrew me, I would,<br/> - And venture maidenhead for 't; and so would you,<br/> - For all this spice of your hypocrisy.<br/> - You that have so fair parts of woman on you<br/> - Have too a woman's heart, which ever yet<br/> - Affected eminence, wealth, sovereignty;<br/> - Which, to say sooth, are blessings; and which gifts,<br/> - Saving your mincing, the capacity<br/> - Of your soft cheveril conscience would receive<br/> - If you might please to stretch it.<br/> - ANNE. Nay, good troth.<br/> - OLD LADY. Yes, troth and troth. You would not be a queen!<br/> - ANNE. No, not for all the riches under heaven.<br/> - OLD LADY. 'Tis strange: a threepence bow'd would hire me,<br/> - Old as I am, to queen it. But, I pray you,<br/> - What think you of a duchess? Have you limbs<br/> - To bear that load of title?<br/> - ANNE. No, in truth.<br/> - OLD LADY. Then you are weakly made. Pluck off a little;<br/> - I would not be a young count in your way<br/> - For more than blushing comes to. If your back<br/> - Cannot vouchsafe this burden, 'tis too weak<br/> - Ever to get a boy.<br/> - ANNE. How you do talk!<br/> - I swear again I would not be a queen<br/> - For all the world.<br/> - OLD LADY. In faith, for little England<br/> - You'd venture an emballing. I myself<br/> - Would for Carnarvonshire, although there long'd<br/> - No more to th' crown but that. Lo, who comes here?<br/> -</p> - -<p> Enter the LORD CHAMBERLAIN</p> - -<p> CHAMBERLAIN. Good morrow, ladies. What were't worth to know<br/> - The secret of your conference?<br/> - ANNE. My good lord,<br/> - Not your demand; it values not your asking.<br/> - Our mistress' sorrows we were pitying.<br/> - CHAMBERLAIN. It was a gentle business and becoming<br/> - The action of good women; there is hope<br/> - All will be well.<br/> - ANNE. Now, I pray God, amen!<br/> - CHAMBERLAIN. You bear a gentle mind, and heav'nly blessings<br/> - Follow such creatures. That you may, fair lady,<br/> - Perceive I speak sincerely and high notes<br/> - Ta'en of your many virtues, the King's Majesty<br/> - Commends his good opinion of you to you, and<br/> - Does purpose honour to you no less flowing<br/> - Than Marchioness of Pembroke; to which tide<br/> - A thousand pound a year, annual support,<br/> - Out of his grace he adds.<br/> - ANNE. I do not know<br/> - What kind of my obedience I should tender;<br/> - More than my all is nothing, nor my prayers<br/> - Are not words duly hallowed, nor my wishes<br/> - More worth than empty vanities; yet prayers and wishes<br/> - Are all I can return. Beseech your lordship,<br/> - Vouchsafe to speak my thanks and my obedience,<br/> - As from a blushing handmaid, to his Highness;<br/> - Whose health and royalty I pray for.<br/> - CHAMBERLAIN. Lady,<br/> - I shall not fail t' approve the fair conceit<br/> - The King hath of you. [Aside] I have perus'd her well:<br/> - Beauty and honour in her are so mingled<br/> - That they have caught the King; and who knows yet<br/> - But from this lady may proceed a gem<br/> - To lighten all this isle?-I'll to the King<br/> - And say I spoke with you.<br/> - ANNE. My honour'd lord! Exit LORD CHAMBERLAIN<br/> - OLD LADY. Why, this it is: see, see!<br/> - I have been begging sixteen years in court-<br/> - Am yet a courtier beggarly-nor could<br/> - Come pat betwixt too early and too late<br/> - For any suit of pounds; and you, O fate!<br/> - A very fresh-fish here-fie, fie, fie upon<br/> - This compell'd fortune!-have your mouth fill'd up<br/> - Before you open it.<br/> - ANNE. This is strange to me.<br/> - OLD LADY. How tastes it? Is it bitter? Forty pence, no.<br/> - There was a lady once-'tis an old story-<br/> - That would not be a queen, that would she not,<br/> - For all the mud in Egypt. Have you heard it?<br/> - ANNE. Come, you are pleasant.<br/> - OLD LADY. With your theme I could<br/> - O'ermount the lark. The Marchioness of Pembroke!<br/> - A thousand pounds a year for pure respect!<br/> - No other obligation! By my life,<br/> - That promises moe thousands: honour's train<br/> - Is longer than his foreskirt. By this time<br/> - I know your back will bear a duchess. Say,<br/> - Are you not stronger than you were?<br/> - ANNE. Good lady,<br/> - Make yourself mirth with your particular fancy,<br/> - And leave me out on't. Would I had no being,<br/> - If this salute my blood a jot; it faints me<br/> - To think what follows.<br/> - The Queen is comfortless, and we forgetful<br/> - In our long absence. Pray, do not deliver<br/> - What here y' have heard to her.<br/> - OLD LADY. What do you think me? Exeunt<br/> -</p> - -<h4>ACT II. SCENE 4.</h4> - -<p>London. A hall in Blackfriars</p> - -<p>Trumpets, sennet, and cornets. Enter two VERGERS, with short silver wands; -next them, two SCRIBES, in the habit of doctors; after them, -the ARCHBISHOP OF CANTERBURY alone; after him, the BISHOPS OF LINCOLN, ELY, -ROCHESTER, and SAINT ASAPH; next them, with some small distance, -follows a GENTLEMAN bearing the purse, with the great seal, -and a Cardinal's hat; then two PRIESTS, bearing each silver cross; -then a GENTLEMAN USHER bareheaded, accompanied with a SERGEANT-AT-ARMS -bearing a silver mace; then two GENTLEMEN bearing two great silver pillars; -after them, side by side, the two CARDINALS, WOLSEY and CAMPEIUS; -two NOBLEMEN with the sword and mace. Then enter the KING and QUEEN -and their trains. The KING takes place under the cloth of state; -the two CARDINALS sit under him as judges. The QUEEN takes place -some distance from the KING. The BISHOPS place themselves on each side -of the court, in manner of consistory; below them the SCRIBES. -The LORDS sit next the BISHOPS. The rest of the attendants stand -in convenient order about the stage</p> - -<p> WOLSEY. Whilst our commission from Rome is read,<br/> - Let silence be commanded.<br/> - KING. What's the need?<br/> - It hath already publicly been read,<br/> - And on all sides th' authority allow'd;<br/> - You may then spare that time.<br/> - WOLSEY. Be't so; proceed.<br/> - SCRIBE. Say 'Henry King of England, come into the court.'<br/> - CRIER. Henry King of England, &c.<br/> - KING. Here.<br/> - SCRIBE. Say 'Katharine Queen of England, come into the court.'<br/> - CRIER. Katharine Queen of England, &c.<br/> -</p> - -<p> The QUEEN makes no answer, rises out of her chair,<br/> - goes about the court, comes to the KING, and kneels<br/> - at his feet; then speaks<br/> -</p> - -<p> QUEEN KATHARINE. Sir, I desire you do me right and justice,<br/> - And to bestow your pity on me; for<br/> - I am a most poor woman and a stranger,<br/> - Born out of your dominions, having here<br/> - No judge indifferent, nor no more assurance<br/> - Of equal friendship and proceeding. Alas, sir,<br/> - In what have I offended you? What cause<br/> - Hath my behaviour given to your displeasure<br/> - That thus you should proceed to put me of<br/> - And take your good grace from me? Heaven witness,<br/> - I have been to you a true and humble wife,<br/> - At all times to your will conformable,<br/> - Ever in fear to kindle your dislike,<br/> - Yea, subject to your countenance-glad or sorry<br/> - As I saw it inclin'd. When was the hour<br/> - I ever contradicted your desire<br/> - Or made it not mine too? Or which of your friends<br/> - Have I not strove to love, although I knew<br/> - He were mine enemy? What friend of mine<br/> - That had to him deriv'd your anger did<br/> - Continue in my liking? Nay, gave notice<br/> - He was from thence discharg'd? Sir, call to mind<br/> - That I have been your wife in this obedience<br/> - Upward of twenty years, and have been blest<br/> - With many children by you. If, in the course<br/> - And process of this time, you can report,<br/> - And prove it too against mine honour, aught,<br/> - My bond to wedlock or my love and duty,<br/> - Against your sacred person, in God's name,<br/> - Turn me away and let the foul'st contempt<br/> - Shut door upon me, and so give me up<br/> - To the sharp'st kind of justice. Please you, sir,<br/> - The King, your father, was reputed for<br/> - A prince most prudent, of an excellent<br/> - And unmatch'd wit and judgment; Ferdinand,<br/> - My father, King of Spain, was reckon'd one<br/> - The wisest prince that there had reign'd by many<br/> - A year before. It is not to be question'd<br/> - That they had gather'd a wise council to them<br/> - Of every realm, that did debate this business,<br/> - Who deem'd our marriage lawful. Wherefore I humbly<br/> - Beseech you, sir, to spare me till I may<br/> - Be by my friends in Spain advis'd, whose counsel<br/> - I will implore. If not, i' th' name of God,<br/> - Your pleasure be fulfill'd!<br/> - WOLSEY. You have here, lady,<br/> - And of your choice, these reverend fathers-men<br/> - Of singular integrity and learning,<br/> - Yea, the elect o' th' land, who are assembled<br/> - To plead your cause. It shall be therefore bootless<br/> - That longer you desire the court, as well<br/> - For your own quiet as to rectify<br/> - What is unsettled in the King.<br/> - CAMPEIUS. His Grace<br/> - Hath spoken well and justly; therefore, madam,<br/> - It's fit this royal session do proceed<br/> - And that, without delay, their arguments<br/> - Be now produc'd and heard.<br/> - QUEEN KATHARINE. Lord Cardinal,<br/> - To you I speak.<br/> - WOLSEY. Your pleasure, madam?<br/> - QUEEN KATHARINE. Sir,<br/> - I am about to weep; but, thinking that<br/> - We are a queen, or long have dream'd so, certain<br/> - The daughter of a king, my drops of tears<br/> - I'll turn to sparks of fire.<br/> - WOLSEY. Be patient yet.<br/> - QUEEN KATHARINE. I Will, when you are humble; nay, before<br/> - Or God will punish me. I do believe,<br/> - Induc'd by potent circumstances, that<br/> - You are mine enemy, and make my challenge<br/> - You shall not be my judge; for it is you<br/> - Have blown this coal betwixt my lord and me-<br/> - Which God's dew quench! Therefore I say again,<br/> - I utterly abhor, yea, from my soul<br/> - Refuse you for my judge, whom yet once more<br/> - I hold my most malicious foe and think not<br/> - At all a friend to truth.<br/> - WOLSEY. I do profess<br/> - You speak not like yourself, who ever yet<br/> - Have stood to charity and display'd th' effects<br/> - Of disposition gentle and of wisdom<br/> - O'ertopping woman's pow'r. Madam, you do me wrong:<br/> - I have no spleen against you, nor injustice<br/> - For you or any; how far I have proceeded,<br/> - Or how far further shall, is warranted<br/> - By a commission from the Consistory,<br/> - Yea, the whole Consistory of Rome. You charge me<br/> - That I have blown this coal: I do deny it.<br/> - The King is present; if it be known to him<br/> - That I gainsay my deed, how may he wound,<br/> - And worthily, my falsehood! Yea, as much<br/> - As you have done my truth. If he know<br/> - That I am free of your report, he knows<br/> - I am not of your wrong. Therefore in him<br/> - It lies to cure me, and the cure is to<br/> - Remove these thoughts from you; the which before<br/> - His Highness shall speak in, I do beseech<br/> - You, gracious madam, to unthink your speaking<br/> - And to say so no more.<br/> - QUEEN KATHARINE. My lord, my lord,<br/> - I am a simple woman, much too weak<br/> - T' oppose your cunning. Y'are meek and humble-mouth'd;<br/> - You sign your place and calling, in full seeming,<br/> - With meekness and humility; but your heart<br/> - Is cramm'd with arrogancy, spleen, and pride.<br/> - You have, by fortune and his Highness' favours,<br/> - Gone slightly o'er low steps, and now are mounted<br/> - Where pow'rs are your retainers, and your words,<br/> - Domestics to you, serve your will as't please<br/> - Yourself pronounce their office. I must tell you<br/> - You tender more your person's honour than<br/> - Your high profession spiritual; that again<br/> - I do refuse you for my judge and here,<br/> - Before you all, appeal unto the Pope,<br/> - To bring my whole cause 'fore his Holiness<br/> - And to be judg'd by him.<br/> - [She curtsies to the KING, and offers to depart]<br/> - CAMPEIUS. The Queen is obstinate,<br/> - Stubborn to justice, apt to accuse it, and<br/> - Disdainful to be tried by't; 'tis not well.<br/> - She's going away.<br/> - KING. Call her again.<br/> - CRIER. Katharine Queen of England, come into the court.<br/> - GENTLEMAN USHER. Madam, you are call'd back.<br/> - QUEEN KATHARINE. What need you note it? Pray you keep your way;<br/> - When you are call'd, return. Now the Lord help!<br/> - They vex me past my patience. Pray you pass on.<br/> - I will not tarry; no, nor ever more<br/> - Upon this business my appearance make<br/> - In any of their courts. Exeunt QUEEN and her attendants<br/> - KING. Go thy ways, Kate.<br/> - That man i' th' world who shall report he has<br/> - A better wife, let him in nought be trusted<br/> - For speaking false in that. Thou art, alone-<br/> - If thy rare qualities, sweet gentleness,<br/> - Thy meekness saint-like, wife-like government,<br/> - Obeying in commanding, and thy parts<br/> - Sovereign and pious else, could speak thee out-<br/> - The queen of earthly queens. She's noble born;<br/> - And like her true nobility she has<br/> - Carried herself towards me.<br/> - WOLSEY. Most gracious sir,<br/> - In humblest manner I require your Highness<br/> - That it shall please you to declare in hearing<br/> - Of all these ears-for where I am robb'd and bound,<br/> - There must I be unloos'd, although not there<br/> - At once and fully satisfied-whether ever I<br/> - Did broach this business to your Highness, or<br/> - Laid any scruple in your way which might<br/> - Induce you to the question on't, or ever<br/> - Have to you, but with thanks to God for such<br/> - A royal lady, spake one the least word that might<br/> - Be to the prejudice of her present state,<br/> - Or touch of her good person?<br/> - KING. My Lord Cardinal,<br/> - I do excuse you; yea, upon mine honour,<br/> - I free you from't. You are not to be taught<br/> - That you have many enemies that know not<br/> - Why they are so, but, like to village curs,<br/> - Bark when their fellows do. By some of these<br/> - The Queen is put in anger. Y'are excus'd.<br/> - But will you be more justified? You ever<br/> - Have wish'd the sleeping of this business; never desir'd<br/> - It to be stirr'd; but oft have hind'red, oft,<br/> - The passages made toward it. On my honour,<br/> - I speak my good Lord Cardinal to this point,<br/> - And thus far clear him. Now, what mov'd me to't,<br/> - I will be bold with time and your attention.<br/> - Then mark th' inducement. Thus it came-give heed to't:<br/> - My conscience first receiv'd a tenderness,<br/> - Scruple, and prick, on certain speeches utter'd<br/> - By th' Bishop of Bayonne, then French ambassador,<br/> - Who had been hither sent on the debating<br/> - A marriage 'twixt the Duke of Orleans and<br/> - Our daughter Mary. I' th' progress of this business,<br/> - Ere a determinate resolution, he-<br/> - I mean the Bishop-did require a respite<br/> - Wherein he might the King his lord advertise<br/> - Whether our daughter were legitimate,<br/> - Respecting this our marriage with the dowager,<br/> - Sometimes our brother's wife. This respite shook<br/> - The bosom of my conscience, enter'd me,<br/> - Yea, with a splitting power, and made to tremble<br/> - The region of my breast, which forc'd such way<br/> - That many maz'd considerings did throng<br/> - And press'd in with this caution. First, methought<br/> - I stood not in the smile of heaven, who had<br/> - Commanded nature that my lady's womb,<br/> - If it conceiv'd a male child by me, should<br/> - Do no more offices of life to't than<br/> - The grave does to the dead; for her male issue<br/> - Or died where they were made, or shortly after<br/> - This world had air'd them. Hence I took a thought<br/> - This was a judgment on me, that my kingdom,<br/> - Well worthy the best heir o' th' world, should not<br/> - Be gladded in't by me. Then follows that<br/> - I weigh'd the danger which my realms stood in<br/> - By this my issue's fail, and that gave to me<br/> - Many a groaning throe. Thus hulling in<br/> - The wild sea of my conscience, I did steer<br/> - Toward this remedy, whereupon we are<br/> - Now present here together; that's to say<br/> - I meant to rectify my conscience, which<br/> - I then did feel full sick, and yet not well,<br/> - By all the reverend fathers of the land<br/> - And doctors learn'd. First, I began in private<br/> - With you, my Lord of Lincoln; you remember<br/> - How under my oppression I did reek,<br/> - When I first mov'd you.<br/> - LINCOLN. Very well, my liege.<br/> - KING. I have spoke long; be pleas'd yourself to say<br/> - How far you satisfied me.<br/> - LINCOLN. So please your Highness,<br/> - The question did at first so stagger me-<br/> - Bearing a state of mighty moment in't<br/> - And consequence of dread-that I committed<br/> - The daring'st counsel which I had to doubt,<br/> - And did entreat your Highness to this course<br/> - Which you are running here.<br/> - KING. I then mov'd you,<br/> - My Lord of Canterbury, and got your leave<br/> - To make this present summons. Unsolicited<br/> - I left no reverend person in this court,<br/> - But by particular consent proceeded<br/> - Under your hands and seals; therefore, go on,<br/> - For no dislike i' th' world against the person<br/> - Of the good Queen, but the sharp thorny points<br/> - Of my alleged reasons, drives this forward.<br/> - Prove but our marriage lawful, by my life<br/> - And kingly dignity, we are contented<br/> - To wear our moral state to come with her,<br/> - Katharine our queen, before the primest creature<br/> - That's paragon'd o' th' world.<br/> - CAMPEIUS. So please your Highness,<br/> - The Queen being absent, 'tis a needful fitness<br/> - That we adjourn this court till further day;<br/> - Meanwhile must be an earnest motion<br/> - Made to the Queen to call back her appeal<br/> - She intends unto his Holiness.<br/> - KING. [Aside] I may perceive<br/> - These cardinals trifle with me. I abhor<br/> - This dilatory sloth and tricks of Rome.<br/> - My learn'd and well-beloved servant, Cranmer,<br/> - Prithee return. With thy approach I know<br/> - My comfort comes along. -Break up the court;<br/> - I say, set on. Exuent in manner as they entered<br/> -</p> - -<h4>ACT III. SCENE 1.</h4> - -<p>London. The QUEEN'S apartments</p> - -<p>Enter the QUEEN and her women, as at work</p> - -<p> QUEEN KATHARINE. Take thy lute, wench. My soul grows<br/> - sad with troubles;<br/> - Sing and disperse 'em, if thou canst. Leave working.<br/> -</p> - -<p> SONG</p> - -<p> Orpheus with his lute made trees,<br/> - And the mountain tops that freeze,<br/> - Bow themselves when he did sing;<br/> - To his music plants and flowers<br/> - Ever sprung, as sun and showers<br/> - There had made a lasting spring.<br/> -</p> - -<p> Every thing that heard him play,<br/> - Even the billows of the sea,<br/> - Hung their heads and then lay by.<br/> - In sweet music is such art,<br/> - Killing care and grief of heart<br/> - Fall asleep or hearing die.<br/> -</p> - -<p> Enter a GENTLEMAN</p> - -<p> QUEEN KATHARINE. How now?<br/> - GENTLEMAN. An't please your Grace, the two great Cardinals<br/> - Wait in the presence.<br/> - QUEEN KATHARINE. Would they speak with me?<br/> - GENTLEMAN. They will'd me say so, madam.<br/> - QUEEN KATHARINE. Pray their Graces<br/> - To come near. [Exit GENTLEMAN] What can be their business<br/> - With me, a poor weak woman, fall'n from favour?<br/> - I do not like their coming. Now I think on't,<br/> - They should be good men, their affairs as righteous;<br/> - But all hoods make not monks.<br/> -</p> - -<p> Enter the two CARDINALS, WOLSEY and CAMPEIUS</p> - -<p> WOLSEY. Peace to your Highness!<br/> - QUEEN KATHARINE. Your Graces find me here part of housewife;<br/> - I would be all, against the worst may happen.<br/> - What are your pleasures with me, reverend lords?<br/> - WOLSEY. May it please you, noble madam, to withdraw<br/> - Into your private chamber, we shall give you<br/> - The full cause of our coming.<br/> - QUEEN KATHARINE. Speak it here;<br/> - There's nothing I have done yet, o' my conscience,<br/> - Deserves a corner. Would all other women<br/> - Could speak this with as free a soul as I do!<br/> - My lords, I care not-so much I am happy<br/> - Above a number-if my actions<br/> - Were tried by ev'ry tongue, ev'ry eye saw 'em,<br/> - Envy and base opinion set against 'em,<br/> - I know my life so even. If your business<br/> - Seek me out, and that way I am wife in,<br/> - Out with it boldly; truth loves open dealing.<br/> - WOLSEY. Tanta est erga te mentis integritas, regina serenis-sima-<br/> - QUEEN KATHARINE. O, good my lord, no Latin!<br/> - I am not such a truant since my coming,<br/> - As not to know the language I have liv'd in;<br/> - A strange tongue makes my cause more strange, suspicious;<br/> - Pray speak in English. Here are some will thank you,<br/> - If you speak truth, for their poor mistress' sake:<br/> - Believe me, she has had much wrong. Lord Cardinal,<br/> - The willing'st sin I ever yet committed<br/> - May be absolv'd in English.<br/> - WOLSEY. Noble lady,<br/> - I am sorry my integrity should breed,<br/> - And service to his Majesty and you,<br/> - So deep suspicion, where all faith was meant<br/> - We come not by the way of accusation<br/> - To taint that honour every good tongue blesses,<br/> - Nor to betray you any way to sorrow-<br/> - You have too much, good lady; but to know<br/> - How you stand minded in the weighty difference<br/> - Between the King and you, and to deliver,<br/> - Like free and honest men, our just opinions<br/> - And comforts to your cause.<br/> - CAMPEIUS. Most honour'd madam,<br/> - My Lord of York, out of his noble nature,<br/> - Zeal and obedience he still bore your Grace,<br/> - Forgetting, like a good man, your late censure<br/> - Both of his truth and him-which was too far-<br/> - Offers, as I do, in a sign of peace,<br/> - His service and his counsel.<br/> - QUEEN KATHARINE. [Aside] To betray me.-<br/> - My lords, I thank you both for your good wins;<br/> - Ye speak like honest men-pray God ye prove so!<br/> - But how to make ye suddenly an answer,<br/> - In such a point of weight, so near mine honour,<br/> - More near my life, I fear, with my weak wit,<br/> - And to such men of gravity and learning,<br/> - In truth I know not. I was set at work<br/> - Among my maids, full little, God knows, looking<br/> - Either for such men or such business.<br/> - For her sake that I have been-for I feel<br/> - The last fit of my greatness-good your Graces,<br/> - Let me have time and counsel for my cause.<br/> - Alas, I am a woman, friendless, hopeless!<br/> - WOLSEY. Madam, you wrong the King's love with these fears;<br/> - Your hopes and friends are infinite.<br/> - QUEEN KATHARINE. In England<br/> - But little for my profit; can you think, lords,<br/> - That any Englishman dare give me counsel?<br/> - Or be a known friend, 'gainst his Highness' pleasure-<br/> - Though he be grown so desperate to be honest-<br/> - And live a subject? Nay, forsooth, my friends,<br/> - They that must weigh out my afflictions,<br/> - They that my trust must grow to, live not here;<br/> - They are, as all my other comforts, far hence,<br/> - In mine own country, lords.<br/> - CAMPEIUS. I would your Grace<br/> - Would leave your griefs, and take my counsel.<br/> - QUEEN KATHARINE. How, sir?<br/> - CAMPEIUS. Put your main cause into the King's protection;<br/> - He's loving and most gracious. 'Twill be much<br/> - Both for your honour better and your cause;<br/> - For if the trial of the law o'ertake ye<br/> - You'll part away disgrac'd.<br/> - WOLSEY. He tells you rightly.<br/> - QUEEN KATHARINE. Ye tell me what ye wish for both-my ruin.<br/> - Is this your Christian counsel? Out upon ye!<br/> - Heaven is above all yet: there sits a Judge<br/> - That no king can corrupt.<br/> - CAMPEIUS. Your rage mistakes us.<br/> - QUEEN KATHARINE. The more shame for ye; holy men I thought ye,<br/> - Upon my soul, two reverend cardinal virtues;<br/> - But cardinal sins and hollow hearts I fear ye.<br/> - Mend 'em, for shame, my lords. Is this your comfort?<br/> - The cordial that ye bring a wretched lady-<br/> - A woman lost among ye, laugh'd at, scorn'd?<br/> - I will not wish ye half my miseries:<br/> - I have more charity; but say I warned ye.<br/> - Take heed, for heaven's sake take heed, lest at once<br/> - The burden of my sorrows fall upon ye.<br/> - WOLSEY. Madam, this is a mere distraction;<br/> - You turn the good we offer into envy.<br/> - QUEEN KATHARINE. Ye turn me into nothing. Woe upon ye,<br/> - And all such false professors! Would you have me-<br/> - If you have any justice, any pity,<br/> - If ye be any thing but churchmen's habits-<br/> - Put my sick cause into his hands that hates me?<br/> - Alas! has banish'd me his bed already,<br/> - His love too long ago! I am old, my lords,<br/> - And all the fellowship I hold now with him<br/> - Is only my obedience. What can happen<br/> - To me above this wretchedness? All your studies<br/> - Make me a curse like this.<br/> - CAMPEIUS. Your fears are worse.<br/> - QUEEN KATHARINE. Have I liv'd thus long-let me speak myself,<br/> - Since virtue finds no friends-a wife, a true one?<br/> - A woman, I dare say without vain-glory,<br/> - Never yet branded with suspicion?<br/> - Have I with all my full affections<br/> - Still met the King, lov'd him next heav'n, obey'd him,<br/> - Been, out of fondness, superstitious to him,<br/> - Almost forgot my prayers to content him,<br/> - And am I thus rewarded? 'Tis not well, lords.<br/> - Bring me a constant woman to her husband,<br/> - One that ne'er dream'd a joy beyond his pleasure,<br/> - And to that woman, when she has done most,<br/> - Yet will I add an honour-a great patience.<br/> - WOLSEY. Madam, you wander from the good we aim at.<br/> - QUEEN KATHARINE. My lord, I dare not make myself so guilty,<br/> - To give up willingly that noble title<br/> - Your master wed me to: nothing but death<br/> - Shall e'er divorce my dignities.<br/> - WOLSEY. Pray hear me.<br/> - QUEEN KATHARINE. Would I had never trod this English earth,<br/> - Or felt the flatteries that grow upon it!<br/> - Ye have angels' faces, but heaven knows your hearts.<br/> - What will become of me now, wretched lady?<br/> - I am the most unhappy woman living.<br/> - [To her WOMEN] Alas, poor wenches, where are now<br/> - your fortunes?<br/> - Shipwreck'd upon a kingdom, where no pity,<br/> - No friends, no hope; no kindred weep for me;<br/> - Almost no grave allow'd me. Like the My,<br/> - That once was mistress of the field, and flourish'd,<br/> - I'll hang my head and perish.<br/> - WOLSEY. If your Grace<br/> - Could but be brought to know our ends are honest,<br/> - You'd feel more comfort. Why should we, good lady,<br/> - Upon what cause, wrong you? Alas, our places,<br/> - The way of our profession is against it;<br/> - We are to cure such sorrows, not to sow 'em.<br/> - For goodness' sake, consider what you do;<br/> - How you may hurt yourself, ay, utterly<br/> - Grow from the King's acquaintance, by this carriage.<br/> - The hearts of princes kiss obedience,<br/> - So much they love it; but to stubborn spirits<br/> - They swell and grow as terrible as storms.<br/> - I know you have a gentle, noble temper,<br/> - A soul as even as a calm. Pray think us<br/> - Those we profess, peace-makers, friends, and servants.<br/> - CAMPEIUS. Madam, you'll find it so. You wrong your virtues<br/> - With these weak women's fears. A noble spirit,<br/> - As yours was put into you, ever casts<br/> - Such doubts as false coin from it. The King loves you;<br/> - Beware you lose it not. For us, if you please<br/> - To trust us in your business, we are ready<br/> - To use our utmost studies in your service.<br/> - QUEEN KATHARINE. Do what ye will my lords; and pray<br/> - forgive me<br/> - If I have us'd myself unmannerly;<br/> - You know I am a woman, lacking wit<br/> - To make a seemly answer to such persons.<br/> - Pray do my service to his Majesty;<br/> - He has my heart yet, and shall have my prayers<br/> - While I shall have my life. Come, reverend fathers,<br/> - Bestow your counsels on me; she now begs<br/> - That little thought, when she set footing here,<br/> - She should have bought her dignities so dear. Exeunt<br/> -</p> - -<h4>ACT III.SCENE 2.</h4> - -<p>London. The palace</p> - -<p>Enter the DUKE OF NORFOLK, the DUKE OF SUFFOLK, the EARL OF SURREY, -and the LORD CHAMBERLAIN</p> - -<p> NORFOLK. If you will now unite in your complaints<br/> - And force them with a constancy, the Cardinal<br/> - Cannot stand under them: if you omit<br/> - The offer of this time, I cannot promise<br/> - But that you shall sustain moe new disgraces<br/> - With these you bear already.<br/> - SURREY. I am joyful<br/> - To meet the least occasion that may give me<br/> - Remembrance of my father-in-law, the Duke,<br/> - To be reveng'd on him.<br/> - SUFFOLK. Which of the peers<br/> - Have uncontemn'd gone by him, or at least<br/> - Strangely neglected? When did he regard<br/> - The stamp of nobleness in any person<br/> - Out of himself?<br/> - CHAMBERLAIN. My lords, you speak your pleasures.<br/> - What he deserves of you and me I know;<br/> - What we can do to him-though now the time<br/> - Gives way to us-I much fear. If you cannot<br/> - Bar his access to th' King, never attempt<br/> - Anything on him; for he hath a witchcraft<br/> - Over the King in's tongue.<br/> - NORFOLK. O, fear him not!<br/> - His spell in that is out; the King hath found<br/> - Matter against him that for ever mars<br/> - The honey of his language. No, he's settled,<br/> - Not to come off, in his displeasure.<br/> - SURREY. Sir,<br/> - I should be glad to hear such news as this<br/> - Once every hour.<br/> - NORFOLK. Believe it, this is true:<br/> - In the divorce his contrary proceedings<br/> - Are all unfolded; wherein he appears<br/> - As I would wish mine enemy.<br/> - SURREY. How came<br/> - His practices to light?<br/> - SUFFOLK. Most Strangely.<br/> - SURREY. O, how, how?<br/> - SUFFOLK. The Cardinal's letters to the Pope miscarried,<br/> - And came to th' eye o' th' King; wherein was read<br/> - How that the Cardinal did entreat his Holiness<br/> - To stay the judgment o' th' divorce; for if<br/> - It did take place, 'I do' quoth he 'perceive<br/> - My king is tangled in affection to<br/> - A creature of the Queen's, Lady Anne Bullen.'<br/> - SURREY. Has the King this?<br/> - SUFFOLK. Believe it.<br/> - SURREY. Will this work?<br/> - CHAMBERLAIN. The King in this perceives him how he coasts<br/> - And hedges his own way. But in this point<br/> - All his tricks founder, and he brings his physic<br/> - After his patient's death: the King already<br/> - Hath married the fair lady.<br/> - SURREY. Would he had!<br/> - SUFFOLK. May you be happy in your wish, my lord!<br/> - For, I profess, you have it.<br/> - SURREY. Now, all my joy<br/> - Trace the conjunction!<br/> - SUFFOLK. My amen to't!<br/> - NORFOLK. An men's!<br/> - SUFFOLK. There's order given for her coronation;<br/> - Marry, this is yet but young, and may be left<br/> - To some ears unrecounted. But, my lords,<br/> - She is a gallant creature, and complete<br/> - In mind and feature. I persuade me from her<br/> - Will fall some blessing to this land, which shall<br/> - In it be memoriz'd.<br/> - SURREY. But will the King<br/> - Digest this letter of the Cardinal's?<br/> - The Lord forbid!<br/> - NORFOLK. Marry, amen!<br/> - SUFFOLK. No, no;<br/> - There be moe wasps that buzz about his nose<br/> - Will make this sting the sooner. Cardinal Campeius<br/> - Is stol'n away to Rome; hath ta'en no leave;<br/> - Has left the cause o' th' King unhandled, and<br/> - Is posted, as the agent of our Cardinal,<br/> - To second all his plot. I do assure you<br/> - The King cried 'Ha!' at this.<br/> - CHAMBERLAIN. Now, God incense him,<br/> - And let him cry 'Ha!' louder!<br/> - NORFOLK. But, my lord,<br/> - When returns Cranmer?<br/> - SUFFOLK. He is return'd in his opinions; which<br/> - Have satisfied the King for his divorce,<br/> - Together with all famous colleges<br/> - Almost in Christendom. Shortly, I believe,<br/> - His second marriage shall be publish'd, and<br/> - Her coronation. Katharine no more<br/> - Shall be call'd queen, but princess dowager<br/> - And widow to Prince Arthur.<br/> - NORFOLK. This same Cranmer's<br/> - A worthy fellow, and hath ta'en much pain<br/> - In the King's business.<br/> - SUFFOLK. He has; and we shall see him<br/> - For it an archbishop.<br/> - NORFOLK. So I hear.<br/> - SUFFOLK. 'Tis so.<br/> -</p> - -<p> Enter WOLSEY and CROMWELL</p> - -<p> The Cardinal!<br/> - NORFOLK. Observe, observe, he's moody.<br/> - WOLSEY. The packet, Cromwell,<br/> - Gave't you the King?<br/> - CROMWELL. To his own hand, in's bedchamber.<br/> - WOLSEY. Look'd he o' th' inside of the paper?<br/> - CROMWELL. Presently<br/> - He did unseal them; and the first he view'd,<br/> - He did it with a serious mind; a heed<br/> - Was in his countenance. You he bade<br/> - Attend him here this morning.<br/> - WOLSEY. Is he ready<br/> - To come abroad?<br/> - CROMWELL. I think by this he is.<br/> - WOLSEY. Leave me awhile. Exit CROMWELL<br/> - [Aside] It shall be to the Duchess of Alencon,<br/> - The French King's sister; he shall marry her.<br/> - Anne Bullen! No, I'll no Anne Bullens for him;<br/> - There's more in't than fair visage. Bullen!<br/> - No, we'll no Bullens. Speedily I wish<br/> - To hear from Rome. The Marchioness of Pembroke!<br/> - NORFOLK. He's discontented.<br/> - SUFFOLK. May be he hears the King<br/> - Does whet his anger to him.<br/> - SURREY. Sharp enough,<br/> - Lord, for thy justice!<br/> - WOLSEY. [Aside] The late Queen's gentlewoman, a knight's<br/> - daughter,<br/> - To be her mistress' mistress! The Queen's queen!<br/> - This candle burns not clear. 'Tis I must snuff it;<br/> - Then out it goes. What though I know her virtuous<br/> - And well deserving? Yet I know her for<br/> - A spleeny Lutheran; and not wholesome to<br/> - Our cause that she should lie i' th' bosom of<br/> - Our hard-rul'd King. Again, there is sprung up<br/> - An heretic, an arch one, Cranmer; one<br/> - Hath crawl'd into the favour of the King,<br/> - And is his oracle.<br/> - NORFOLK. He is vex'd at something.<br/> -</p> - -<p> Enter the KING, reading of a schedule, and LOVELL</p> - -<p> SURREY. I would 'twere something that would fret the string,<br/> - The master-cord on's heart!<br/> - SUFFOLK. The King, the King!<br/> - KING. What piles of wealth hath he accumulated<br/> - To his own portion! And what expense by th' hour<br/> - Seems to flow from him! How, i' th' name of thrift,<br/> - Does he rake this together?-Now, my lords,<br/> - Saw you the Cardinal?<br/> - NORFOLK. My lord, we have<br/> - Stood here observing him. Some strange commotion<br/> - Is in his brain: he bites his lip and starts,<br/> - Stops on a sudden, looks upon the ground,<br/> - Then lays his finger on his temple; straight<br/> - Springs out into fast gait; then stops again,<br/> - Strikes his breast hard; and anon he casts<br/> - His eye against the moon. In most strange postures<br/> - We have seen him set himself.<br/> - KING. It may well be<br/> - There is a mutiny in's mind. This morning<br/> - Papers of state he sent me to peruse,<br/> - As I requir'd; and wot you what I found<br/> - There-on my conscience, put unwittingly?<br/> - Forsooth, an inventory, thus importing<br/> - The several parcels of his plate, his treasure,<br/> - Rich stuffs, and ornaments of household; which<br/> - I find at such proud rate that it outspeaks<br/> - Possession of a subject.<br/> - NORFOLK. It's heaven's will;<br/> - Some spirit put this paper in the packet<br/> - To bless your eye withal.<br/> - KING. If we did think<br/> - His contemplation were above the earth<br/> - And fix'd on spiritual object, he should still<br/> - dwell in his musings; but I am afraid<br/> - His thinkings are below the moon, not worth<br/> - His serious considering.<br/> - [The KING takes his seat and whispers LOVELL,<br/> - who goes to the CARDINAL]<br/> - WOLSEY. Heaven forgive me!<br/> - Ever God bless your Highness!<br/> - KING. Good, my lord,<br/> - You are full of heavenly stuff, and bear the inventory<br/> - Of your best graces in your mind; the which<br/> - You were now running o'er. You have scarce time<br/> - To steal from spiritual leisure a brief span<br/> - To keep your earthly audit; sure, in that<br/> - I deem you an ill husband, and am glad<br/> - To have you therein my companion.<br/> - WOLSEY. Sir,<br/> - For holy offices I have a time; a time<br/> - To think upon the part of business which<br/> - I bear i' th' state; and nature does require<br/> - Her times of preservation, which perforce<br/> - I, her frail son, amongst my brethren mortal,<br/> - Must give my tendance to.<br/> - KING. You have said well.<br/> - WOLSEY. And ever may your Highness yoke together,<br/> - As I will lend you cause, my doing well<br/> - With my well saying!<br/> - KING. 'Tis well said again;<br/> - And 'tis a kind of good deed to say well;<br/> - And yet words are no deeds. My father lov'd you:<br/> - He said he did; and with his deed did crown<br/> - His word upon you. Since I had my office<br/> - I have kept you next my heart; have not alone<br/> - Employ'd you where high profits might come home,<br/> - But par'd my present havings to bestow<br/> - My bounties upon you.<br/> - WOLSEY. [Aside] What should this mean?<br/> - SURREY. [Aside] The Lord increase this business!<br/> - KING. Have I not made you<br/> - The prime man of the state? I pray you tell me<br/> - If what I now pronounce you have found true;<br/> - And, if you may confess it, say withal<br/> - If you are bound to us or no. What say you?<br/> - WOLSEY. My sovereign, I confess your royal graces,<br/> - Show'r'd on me daily, have been more than could<br/> - My studied purposes requite; which went<br/> - Beyond all man's endeavours. My endeavours,<br/> - Have ever come too short of my desires,<br/> - Yet fil'd with my abilities; mine own ends<br/> - Have been mine so that evermore they pointed<br/> - To th' good of your most sacred person and<br/> - The profit of the state. For your great graces<br/> - Heap'd upon me, poor undeserver, I<br/> - Can nothing render but allegiant thanks;<br/> - My pray'rs to heaven for you; my loyalty,<br/> - Which ever has and ever shall be growing,<br/> - Till death, that winter, kill it.<br/> - KING. Fairly answer'd!<br/> - A loyal and obedient subject is<br/> - Therein illustrated; the honour of it<br/> - Does pay the act of it, as, i' th' contrary,<br/> - The foulness is the punishment. I presume<br/> - That, as my hand has open'd bounty to you,<br/> - My heart dropp'd love, my pow'r rain'd honour, more<br/> - On you than any, so your hand and heart,<br/> - Your brain, and every function of your power,<br/> - Should, notwithstanding that your bond of duty,<br/> - As 'twere in love's particular, be more<br/> - To me, your friend, than any.<br/> - WOLSEY. I do profess<br/> - That for your Highness' good I ever labour'd<br/> - More than mine own; that am, have, and will be-<br/> - Though all the world should crack their duty to you,<br/> - And throw it from their soul; though perils did<br/> - Abound as thick as thought could make 'em, and<br/> - Appear in forms more horrid-yet my duty,<br/> - As doth a rock against the chiding flood,<br/> - Should the approach of this wild river break,<br/> - And stand unshaken yours.<br/> - KING. 'Tis nobly spoken.<br/> - Take notice, lords, he has a loyal breast,<br/> - For you have seen him open 't. Read o'er this;<br/> - [Giving him papers]<br/> - And after, this; and then to breakfast with<br/> - What appetite you have.<br/> - Exit the KING, frowning upon the CARDINAL; the NOBLES<br/> - throng after him, smiling and whispering<br/> - WOLSEY. What should this mean?<br/> - What sudden anger's this? How have I reap'd it?<br/> - He parted frowning from me, as if ruin<br/> - Leap'd from his eyes; so looks the chafed lion<br/> - Upon the daring huntsman that has gall'd him-<br/> - Then makes him nothing. I must read this paper;<br/> - I fear, the story of his anger. 'Tis so;<br/> - This paper has undone me. 'Tis th' account<br/> - Of all that world of wealth I have drawn together<br/> - For mine own ends; indeed to gain the popedom,<br/> - And fee my friends in Rome. O negligence,<br/> - Fit for a fool to fall by! What cross devil<br/> - Made me put this main secret in the packet<br/> - I sent the King? Is there no way to cure this?<br/> - No new device to beat this from his brains?<br/> - I know 'twill stir him strongly; yet I know<br/> - A way, if it take right, in spite of fortune,<br/> - Will bring me off again. What's this? 'To th' Pope.'<br/> - The letter, as I live, with all the business<br/> - I writ to's Holiness. Nay then, farewell!<br/> - I have touch'd the highest point of all my greatness,<br/> - And from that full meridian of my glory<br/> - I haste now to my setting. I shall fall<br/> - Like a bright exhalation in the evening,<br/> - And no man see me more.<br/> -</p> - -<p> Re-enter to WOLSEY the DUKES OF NORFOLK and<br/> - SUFFOLK, the EARL OF SURREY, and the LORD<br/> - CHAMBERLAIN<br/> -</p> - -<p> NORFOLK. Hear the King's pleasure, Cardinal, who commands you<br/> - To render up the great seal presently<br/> - Into our hands, and to confine yourself<br/> - To Asher House, my Lord of Winchester's,<br/> - Till you hear further from his Highness.<br/> - WOLSEY. Stay:<br/> - Where's your commission, lords? Words cannot carry<br/> - Authority so weighty.<br/> - SUFFOLK. Who dares cross 'em,<br/> - Bearing the King's will from his mouth expressly?<br/> - WOLSEY. Till I find more than will or words to do it-<br/> - I mean your malice-know, officious lords,<br/> - I dare and must deny it. Now I feel<br/> - Of what coarse metal ye are moulded-envy;<br/> - How eagerly ye follow my disgraces,<br/> - As if it fed ye; and how sleek and wanton<br/> - Ye appear in every thing may bring my ruin!<br/> - Follow your envious courses, men of malice;<br/> - You have Christian warrant for 'em, and no doubt<br/> - In time will find their fit rewards. That seal<br/> - You ask with such a violence, the King-<br/> - Mine and your master-with his own hand gave me;<br/> - Bade me enjoy it, with the place and honours,<br/> - During my life; and, to confirm his goodness,<br/> - Tied it by letters-patents. Now, who'll take it?<br/> - SURREY. The King, that gave it.<br/> - WOLSEY. It must be himself then.<br/> - SURREY. Thou art a proud traitor, priest.<br/> - WOLSEY. Proud lord, thou liest.<br/> - Within these forty hours Surrey durst better<br/> - Have burnt that tongue than said so.<br/> - SURREY. Thy ambition,<br/> - Thou scarlet sin, robb'd this bewailing land<br/> - Of noble Buckingham, my father-in-law.<br/> - The heads of all thy brother cardinals,<br/> - With thee and all thy best parts bound together,<br/> - Weigh'd not a hair of his. Plague of your policy!<br/> - You sent me deputy for Ireland;<br/> - Far from his succour, from the King, from all<br/> - That might have mercy on the fault thou gav'st him;<br/> - Whilst your great goodness, out of holy pity,<br/> - Absolv'd him with an axe.<br/> - WOLSEY. This, and all else<br/> - This talking lord can lay upon my credit,<br/> - I answer is most false. The Duke by law<br/> - Found his deserts; how innocent I was<br/> - From any private malice in his end,<br/> - His noble jury and foul cause can witness.<br/> - If I lov'd many words, lord, I should tell you<br/> - You have as little honesty as honour,<br/> - That in the way of loyalty and truth<br/> - Toward the King, my ever royal master,<br/> - Dare mate a sounder man than Surrey can be<br/> - And an that love his follies.<br/> - SURREY. By my soul,<br/> - Your long coat, priest, protects you; thou shouldst feel<br/> - My sword i' the life-blood of thee else. My lords<br/> - Can ye endure to hear this arrogance?<br/> - And from this fellow? If we live thus tamely,<br/> - To be thus jaded by a piece of scarlet,<br/> - Farewell nobility! Let his Grace go forward<br/> - And dare us with his cap like larks.<br/> - WOLSEY. All goodness<br/> - Is poison to thy stomach.<br/> - SURREY. Yes, that goodness<br/> - Of gleaning all the land's wealth into one,<br/> - Into your own hands, Cardinal, by extortion;<br/> - The goodness of your intercepted packets<br/> - You writ to th' Pope against the King; your goodness,<br/> - Since you provoke me, shall be most notorious.<br/> - My Lord of Norfolk, as you are truly noble,<br/> - As you respect the common good, the state<br/> - Of our despis'd nobility, our issues,<br/> - Whom, if he live, will scarce be gentlemen-<br/> - Produce the grand sum of his sins, the articles<br/> - Collected from his life. I'll startle you<br/> - Worse than the sacring bell, when the brown wench<br/> - Lay kissing in your arms, Lord Cardinal.<br/> - WOLSEY. How much, methinks, I could despise this man,<br/> - But that I am bound in charity against it!<br/> - NORFOLK. Those articles, my lord, are in the King's hand;<br/> - But, thus much, they are foul ones.<br/> - WOLSEY. So much fairer<br/> - And spotless shall mine innocence arise,<br/> - When the King knows my truth.<br/> - SURREY. This cannot save you.<br/> - I thank my memory I yet remember<br/> - Some of these articles; and out they shall.<br/> - Now, if you can blush and cry guilty, Cardinal,<br/> - You'll show a little honesty.<br/> - WOLSEY. Speak on, sir;<br/> - I dare your worst objections. If I blush,<br/> - It is to see a nobleman want manners.<br/> - SURREY. I had rather want those than my head. Have at you!<br/> - First, that without the King's assent or knowledge<br/> - You wrought to be a legate; by which power<br/> - You maim'd the jurisdiction of all bishops.<br/> - NORFOLK. Then, that in all you writ to Rome, or else<br/> - To foreign princes, 'Ego et Rex meus'<br/> - Was still inscrib'd; in which you brought the King<br/> - To be your servant.<br/> - SUFFOLK. Then, that without the knowledge<br/> - Either of King or Council, when you went<br/> - Ambassador to the Emperor, you made bold<br/> - To carry into Flanders the great seal.<br/> - SURREY. Item, you sent a large commission<br/> - To Gregory de Cassado, to conclude,<br/> - Without the King's will or the state's allowance,<br/> - A league between his Highness and Ferrara.<br/> - SUFFOLK. That out of mere ambition you have caus'd<br/> - Your holy hat to be stamp'd on the King's coin.<br/> - SURREY. Then, that you have sent innumerable substance,<br/> - By what means got I leave to your own conscience,<br/> - To furnish Rome and to prepare the ways<br/> - You have for dignities, to the mere undoing<br/> - Of all the kingdom. Many more there are,<br/> - Which, since they are of you, and odious,<br/> - I will not taint my mouth with.<br/> - CHAMBERLAIN. O my lord,<br/> - Press not a falling man too far! 'Tis virtue.<br/> - His faults lie open to the laws; let them,<br/> - Not you, correct him. My heart weeps to see him<br/> - So little of his great self.<br/> - SURREY. I forgive him.<br/> - SUFFOLK. Lord Cardinal, the King's further pleasure is-<br/> - Because all those things you have done of late,<br/> - By your power legatine within this kingdom,<br/> - Fall into th' compass of a praemunire-<br/> - That therefore such a writ be sued against you:<br/> - To forfeit all your goods, lands, tenements,<br/> - Chattels, and whatsoever, and to be<br/> - Out of the King's protection. This is my charge.<br/> - NORFOLK. And so we'll leave you to your meditations<br/> - How to live better. For your stubborn answer<br/> - About the giving back the great seal to us,<br/> - The King shall know it, and, no doubt, shall thank you.<br/> - So fare you well, my little good Lord Cardinal.<br/> - Exeunt all but WOLSEY<br/> - WOLSEY. So farewell to the little good you bear me.<br/> - Farewell, a long farewell, to all my greatness!<br/> - This is the state of man: to-day he puts forth<br/> - The tender leaves of hopes; to-morrow blossoms<br/> - And bears his blushing honours thick upon him;<br/> - The third day comes a frost, a killing frost,<br/> - And when he thinks, good easy man, full surely<br/> - His greatness is a-ripening, nips his root,<br/> - And then he falls, as I do. I have ventur'd,<br/> - Like little wanton boys that swim on bladders,<br/> - This many summers in a sea of glory;<br/> - But far beyond my depth. My high-blown pride<br/> - At length broke under me, and now has left me,<br/> - Weary and old with service, to the mercy<br/> - Of a rude stream, that must for ever hide me.<br/> - Vain pomp and glory of this world, I hate ye;<br/> - I feel my heart new open'd. O, how wretched<br/> - Is that poor man that hangs on princes' favours!<br/> - There is betwixt that smile we would aspire to,<br/> - That sweet aspect of princes, and their ruin<br/> - More pangs and fears than wars or women have;<br/> - And when he falls, he falls like Lucifer,<br/> - Never to hope again.<br/> -</p> - -<p> Enter CROMWELL, standing amazed</p> - -<p> Why, how now, Cromwell!<br/> - CROMWELL. I have no power to speak, sir.<br/> - WOLSEY. What, amaz'd<br/> - At my misfortunes? Can thy spirit wonder<br/> - A great man should decline? Nay, an you weep,<br/> - I am fall'n indeed.<br/> - CROMWELL. How does your Grace?<br/> - WOLSEY. Why, well;<br/> - Never so truly happy, my good Cromwell.<br/> - I know myself now, and I feel within me<br/> - A peace above all earthly dignities,<br/> - A still and quiet conscience. The King has cur'd me,<br/> - I humbly thank his Grace; and from these shoulders,<br/> - These ruin'd pillars, out of pity, taken<br/> - A load would sink a navy-too much honour.<br/> - O, 'tis a burden, Cromwell, 'tis a burden<br/> - Too heavy for a man that hopes for heaven!<br/> - CROMWELL. I am glad your Grace has made that right use of it.<br/> - WOLSEY. I hope I have. I am able now, methinks,<br/> - Out of a fortitude of soul I feel,<br/> - To endure more miseries and greater far<br/> - Than my weak-hearted enemies dare offer.<br/> - What news abroad?<br/> - CROMWELL. The heaviest and the worst<br/> - Is your displeasure with the King.<br/> - WOLSEY. God bless him!<br/> - CROMWELL. The next is that Sir Thomas More is chosen<br/> - Lord Chancellor in your place.<br/> - WOLSEY. That's somewhat sudden.<br/> - But he's a learned man. May he continue<br/> - Long in his Highness' favour, and do justice<br/> - For truth's sake and his conscience; that his bones<br/> - When he has run his course and sleeps in blessings,<br/> - May have a tomb of orphans' tears wept on him!<br/> - What more?<br/> - CROMWELL. That Cranmer is return'd with welcome,<br/> - Install'd Lord Archbishop of Canterbury.<br/> - WOLSEY. That's news indeed.<br/> - CROMWELL. Last, that the Lady Anne,<br/> - Whom the King hath in secrecy long married,<br/> - This day was view'd in open as his queen,<br/> - Going to chapel; and the voice is now<br/> - Only about her coronation.<br/> - WOLSEY. There was the weight that pull'd me down.<br/> - O Cromwell,<br/> - The King has gone beyond me. All my glories<br/> - In that one woman I have lost for ever.<br/> - No sun shall ever usher forth mine honours,<br/> - Or gild again the noble troops that waited<br/> - Upon my smiles. Go get thee from me, Cromwell;<br/> - I am a poor fall'n man, unworthy now<br/> - To be thy lord and master. Seek the King;<br/> - That sun, I pray, may never set! I have told him<br/> - What and how true thou art. He will advance thee;<br/> - Some little memory of me will stir him-<br/> - I know his noble nature-not to let<br/> - Thy hopeful service perish too. Good Cromwell,<br/> - Neglect him not; make use now, and provide<br/> - For thine own future safety.<br/> - CROMWELL. O my lord,<br/> - Must I then leave you? Must I needs forgo<br/> - So good, so noble, and so true a master?<br/> - Bear witness, all that have not hearts of iron,<br/> - With what a sorrow Cromwell leaves his lord.<br/> - The King shall have my service; but my prayers<br/> - For ever and for ever shall be yours.<br/> - WOLSEY. Cromwell, I did not think to shed a tear<br/> - In all my miseries; but thou hast forc'd me,<br/> - Out of thy honest truth, to play the woman.<br/> - Let's dry our eyes; and thus far hear me, Cromwell,<br/> - And when I am forgotten, as I shall be,<br/> - And sleep in dull cold marble, where no mention<br/> - Of me more must be heard of, say I taught thee-<br/> - Say Wolsey, that once trod the ways of glory,<br/> - And sounded all the depths and shoals of honour,<br/> - Found thee a way, out of his wreck, to rise in-<br/> - A sure and safe one, though thy master miss'd it.<br/> - Mark but my fall and that that ruin'd me.<br/> - Cromwell, I charge thee, fling away ambition:<br/> - By that sin fell the angels. How can man then,<br/> - The image of his Maker, hope to win by it?<br/> - Love thyself last; cherish those hearts that hate thee;<br/> - Corruption wins not more than honesty.<br/> - Still in thy right hand carry gentle peace<br/> - To silence envious tongues. Be just, and fear not;<br/> - Let all the ends thou aim'st at be thy country's,<br/> - Thy God's, and truth's; then, if thou fall'st, O Cromwell,<br/> - Thou fall'st a blessed martyr!<br/> - Serve the King, and-prithee lead me in.<br/> - There take an inventory of all I have<br/> - To the last penny; 'tis the King's. My robe,<br/> - And my integrity to heaven, is all<br/> - I dare now call mine own. O Cromwell, Cromwell!<br/> - Had I but serv'd my God with half the zeal<br/> - I serv'd my King, he would not in mine age<br/> - Have left me naked to mine enemies.<br/> - CROMWELL. Good sir, have patience.<br/> - WOLSEY. So I have. Farewell<br/> - The hopes of court! My hopes in heaven do dwell. Exeunt<br/> -</p> - -<h4>ACT IV. SCENE 1.</h4> - -<p>A street in Westminster</p> - -<p>Enter two GENTLEMEN, meeting one another</p> - -<p> FIRST GENTLEMAN. Y'are well met once again.<br/> - SECOND GENTLEMAN. So are you.<br/> - FIRST GENTLEMAN. You come to take your stand here, and<br/> - behold<br/> - The Lady Anne pass from her coronation?<br/> - SECOND GENTLEMAN. 'Tis all my business. At our last encounter<br/> - The Duke of Buckingham came from his trial.<br/> - FIRST GENTLEMAN. 'Tis very true. But that time offer'd<br/> - sorrow;<br/> - This, general joy.<br/> - SECOND GENTLEMAN. 'Tis well. The citizens,<br/> - I am sure, have shown at full their royal minds-<br/> - As, let 'em have their rights, they are ever forward-<br/> - In celebration of this day with shows,<br/> - Pageants, and sights of honour.<br/> - FIRST GENTLEMAN. Never greater,<br/> - Nor, I'll assure you, better taken, sir.<br/> - SECOND GENTLEMAN. May I be bold to ask what that contains,<br/> - That paper in your hand?<br/> - FIRST GENTLEMAN. Yes; 'tis the list<br/> - Of those that claim their offices this day,<br/> - By custom of the coronation.<br/> - The Duke of Suffolk is the first, and claims<br/> - To be High Steward; next, the Duke of Norfolk,<br/> - He to be Earl Marshal. You may read the rest.<br/> - SECOND GENTLEMAN. I thank you, sir; had I not known<br/> - those customs,<br/> - I should have been beholding to your paper.<br/> - But, I beseech you, what's become of Katharine,<br/> - The Princess Dowager? How goes her business?<br/> - FIRST GENTLEMAN. That I can tell you too. The Archbishop<br/> - Of Canterbury, accompanied with other<br/> - Learned and reverend fathers of his order,<br/> - Held a late court at Dunstable, six miles of<br/> - From Ampthill, where the Princess lay; to which<br/> - She was often cited by them, but appear'd not.<br/> - And, to be short, for not appearance and<br/> - The King's late scruple, by the main assent<br/> - Of all these learned men, she was divorc'd,<br/> - And the late marriage made of none effect;<br/> - Since which she was removed to Kimbolton,<br/> - Where she remains now sick.<br/> - SECOND GENTLEMAN. Alas, good lady! [Trumpets]<br/> - The trumpets sound. Stand close, the Queen is coming.<br/> -[Hautboys]<br/> -</p> - -<h5>THE ORDER OF THE CORONATION.</h5> - -<p> 1. A lively flourish of trumpets.<br/> - 2. Then two JUDGES.<br/> - 3. LORD CHANCELLOR, with purse and mace before him.<br/> - 4. CHORISTERS singing. [Music]<br/> - 5. MAYOR OF LONDON, bearing the mace. Then GARTER, in<br/> - his coat of arms, and on his head he wore a gilt copper<br/> - crown.<br/> - 6. MARQUIS DORSET, bearing a sceptre of gold, on his head a<br/> - demi-coronal of gold. With him, the EARL OF SURREY,<br/> - bearing the rod of silver with the dove, crowned with an<br/> - earl's coronet. Collars of Esses.<br/> - 7. DUKE OF SUFFOLK, in his robe of estate, his coronet on<br/> - his head, bearing a long white wand, as High Steward.<br/> - With him, the DUKE OF NORFOLK, with the rod of<br/> - marshalship, a coronet on his head. Collars of Esses.<br/> - 8. A canopy borne by four of the CINQUE-PORTS; under it<br/> - the QUEEN in her robe; in her hair richly adorned with<br/> - pearl, crowned. On each side her, the BISHOPS OF LONDON<br/> - and WINCHESTER.<br/> - 9. The old DUCHESS OF NORFOLK, in a coronal of gold<br/> - wrought with flowers, bearing the QUEEN'S train.<br/> - 10. Certain LADIES or COUNTESSES, with plain circlets of gold<br/> - without flowers.<br/> -</p> - -<p> Exeunt, first passing over the stage in order and state,<br/> - and then a great flourish of trumpets<br/> -</p> - -<p> SECOND GENTLEMAN. A royal train, believe me. These know.<br/> - Who's that that bears the sceptre?<br/> - FIRST GENTLEMAN. Marquis Dorset;<br/> - And that the Earl of Surrey, with the rod.<br/> - SECOND GENTLEMAN. A bold brave gentleman. That should be<br/> - The Duke of Suffolk?<br/> - FIRST GENTLEMAN. 'Tis the same-High Steward.<br/> - SECOND GENTLEMAN. And that my Lord of Norfolk?<br/> - FIRST GENTLEMAN. Yes.<br/> - SECOND GENTLEMAN. [Looking on the QUEEN] Heaven<br/> - bless thee!<br/> - Thou hast the sweetest face I ever look'd on.<br/> - Sir, as I have a soul, she is an angel;<br/> - Our king has all the Indies in his arms,<br/> - And more and richer, when he strains that lady;<br/> - I cannot blame his conscience.<br/> - FIRST GENTLEMAN. They that bear<br/> - The cloth of honour over her are four barons<br/> - Of the Cinque-ports.<br/> - SECOND GENTLEMAN. Those men are happy; and so are all<br/> - are near her.<br/> - I take it she that carries up the train<br/> - Is that old noble lady, Duchess of Norfolk.<br/> - FIRST GENTLEMAN. It is; and all the rest are countesses.<br/> - SECOND GENTLEMAN. Their coronets say so. These are stars indeed,<br/> - And sometimes falling ones.<br/> - FIRST GENTLEMAN. No more of that.<br/> - Exit Procession, with a great flourish of trumpets<br/> -</p> - -<p> Enter a third GENTLEMAN</p> - -<p> God save you, sir! Where have you been broiling?<br/> - THIRD GENTLEMAN. Among the crowds i' th' Abbey, where a finger<br/> - Could not be wedg'd in more; I am stifled<br/> - With the mere rankness of their joy.<br/> - SECOND GENTLEMAN. You saw<br/> - The ceremony?<br/> - THIRD GENTLEMAN. That I did.<br/> - FIRST GENTLEMAN. How was it?<br/> - THIRD GENTLEMAN. Well worth the seeing.<br/> - SECOND GENTLEMAN. Good sir, speak it to us.<br/> - THIRD GENTLEMAN. As well as I am able. The rich stream<br/> - Of lords and ladies, having brought the Queen<br/> - To a prepar'd place in the choir, fell of<br/> - A distance from her, while her Grace sat down<br/> - To rest awhile, some half an hour or so,<br/> - In a rich chair of state, opposing freely<br/> - The beauty of her person to the people.<br/> - Believe me, sir, she is the goodliest woman<br/> - That ever lay by man; which when the people<br/> - Had the full view of, such a noise arose<br/> - As the shrouds make at sea in a stiff tempest,<br/> - As loud, and to as many tunes; hats, cloaks-<br/> - Doublets, I think-flew up, and had their faces<br/> - Been loose, this day they had been lost. Such joy<br/> - I never saw before. Great-bellied women,<br/> - That had not half a week to go, like rams<br/> - In the old time of war, would shake the press,<br/> - And make 'em reel before 'em. No man living<br/> - Could say 'This is my wife' there, all were woven<br/> - So strangely in one piece.<br/> - SECOND GENTLEMAN. But what follow'd?<br/> - THIRD GENTLEMAN. At length her Grace rose, and with<br/> - modest paces<br/> - Came to the altar, where she kneel'd, and saintlike<br/> - Cast her fair eyes to heaven, and pray'd devoutly.<br/> - Then rose again, and bow'd her to the people;<br/> - When by the Archbishop of Canterbury<br/> - She had all the royal makings of a queen:<br/> - As holy oil, Edward Confessor's crown,<br/> - The rod, and bird of peace, and all such emblems<br/> - Laid nobly on her; which perform'd, the choir,<br/> - With all the choicest music of the kingdom,<br/> - Together sung 'Te Deum.' So she parted,<br/> - And with the same full state pac'd back again<br/> - To York Place, where the feast is held.<br/> - FIRST GENTLEMAN. Sir,<br/> - You must no more call it York Place: that's past:<br/> - For since the Cardinal fell that title's lost.<br/> - 'Tis now the King's, and called Whitehall.<br/> - THIRD GENTLEMAN. I know it;<br/> - But 'tis so lately alter'd that the old name<br/> - Is fresh about me.<br/> - SECOND GENTLEMAN. What two reverend bishops<br/> - Were those that went on each side of the Queen?<br/> - THIRD GENTLEMAN. Stokesly and Gardiner: the one of Winchester,<br/> - Newly preferr'd from the King's secretary;<br/> - The other, London.<br/> - SECOND GENTLEMAN. He of Winchester<br/> - Is held no great good lover of the Archbishop's,<br/> - The virtuous Cranmer.<br/> - THIRD GENTLEMAN. All the land knows that;<br/> - However, yet there is no great breach. When it comes,<br/> - Cranmer will find a friend will not shrink from him.<br/> - SECOND GENTLEMAN. Who may that be, I pray you?<br/> - THIRD GENTLEMAN. Thomas Cromwell,<br/> - A man in much esteem with th' King, and truly<br/> - A worthy friend. The King has made him Master<br/> - O' th' jewel House,<br/> - And one, already, of the Privy Council.<br/> - SECOND GENTLEMAN. He will deserve more.<br/> - THIRD GENTLEMAN. Yes, without all doubt.<br/> - Come, gentlemen, ye shall go my way, which<br/> - Is to th' court, and there ye shall be my guests:<br/> - Something I can command. As I walk thither,<br/> - I'll tell ye more.<br/> - BOTH. You may command us, sir. Exeunt<br/> -</p> - -<h4>ACT IV. SCENE 2.</h4> - -<p>Kimbolton</p> - -<p>Enter KATHARINE, Dowager, sick; led between GRIFFITH, her Gentleman Usher, -and PATIENCE, her woman</p> - -<p> GRIFFITH. How does your Grace?<br/> - KATHARINE. O Griffith, sick to death!<br/> - My legs like loaden branches bow to th' earth,<br/> - Willing to leave their burden. Reach a chair.<br/> - So-now, methinks, I feel a little ease.<br/> - Didst thou not tell me, Griffith, as thou led'st me,<br/> - That the great child of honour, Cardinal Wolsey,<br/> - Was dead?<br/> - GRIFFITH. Yes, madam; but I think your Grace,<br/> - Out of the pain you suffer'd, gave no ear to't.<br/> - KATHARINE. Prithee, good Griffith, tell me how he died.<br/> - If well, he stepp'd before me, happily,<br/> - For my example.<br/> - GRIFFITH. Well, the voice goes, madam;<br/> - For after the stout Earl Northumberland<br/> - Arrested him at York and brought him forward,<br/> - As a man sorely tainted, to his answer,<br/> - He fell sick suddenly, and grew so ill<br/> - He could not sit his mule.<br/> - KATHARINE. Alas, poor man!<br/> - GRIFFITH. At last, with easy roads, he came to Leicester,<br/> - Lodg'd in the abbey; where the reverend abbot,<br/> - With all his covent, honourably receiv'd him;<br/> - To whom he gave these words: 'O father Abbot,<br/> - An old man, broken with the storms of state,<br/> - Is come to lay his weary bones among ye;<br/> - Give him a little earth for charity!'<br/> - So went to bed; where eagerly his sickness<br/> - Pursu'd him still And three nights after this,<br/> - About the hour of eight-which he himself<br/> - Foretold should be his last-full of repentance,<br/> - Continual meditations, tears, and sorrows,<br/> - He gave his honours to the world again,<br/> - His blessed part to heaven, and slept in peace.<br/> - KATHARINE. So may he rest; his faults lie gently on him!<br/> - Yet thus far, Griffith, give me leave to speak him,<br/> - And yet with charity. He was a man<br/> - Of an unbounded stomach, ever ranking<br/> - Himself with princes; one that, by suggestion,<br/> - Tied all the kingdom. Simony was fair play;<br/> - His own opinion was his law. I' th' presence<br/> - He would say untruths, and be ever double<br/> - Both in his words and meaning. He was never,<br/> - But where he meant to ruin, pitiful.<br/> - His promises were, as he then was, mighty;<br/> - But his performance, as he is now, nothing.<br/> - Of his own body he was ill, and gave<br/> - The clergy ill example.<br/> - GRIFFITH. Noble madam,<br/> - Men's evil manners live in brass: their virtues<br/> - We write in water. May it please your Highness<br/> - To hear me speak his good now?<br/> - KATHARINE. Yes, good Griffith;<br/> - I were malicious else.<br/> - GRIFFITH. This Cardinal,<br/> - Though from an humble stock, undoubtedly<br/> - Was fashion'd to much honour from his cradle.<br/> - He was a scholar, and a ripe and good one;<br/> - Exceeding wise, fair-spoken, and persuading;<br/> - Lofty and sour to them that lov'd him not,<br/> - But to those men that sought him sweet as summer.<br/> - And though he were unsatisfied in getting-<br/> - Which was a sin-yet in bestowing, madam,<br/> - He was most princely: ever witness for him<br/> - Those twins of learning that he rais'd in you,<br/> - Ipswich and Oxford! One of which fell with him,<br/> - Unwilling to outlive the good that did it;<br/> - The other, though unfinish'd, yet so famous,<br/> - So excellent in art, and still so rising,<br/> - That Christendom shall ever speak his virtue.<br/> - His overthrow heap'd happiness upon him;<br/> - For then, and not till then, he felt himself,<br/> - And found the blessedness of being little.<br/> - And, to add greater honours to his age<br/> - Than man could give him, he died fearing God.<br/> - KATHARINE. After my death I wish no other herald,<br/> - No other speaker of my living actions,<br/> - To keep mine honour from corruption,<br/> - But such an honest chronicler as Griffith.<br/> - Whom I most hated living, thou hast made me,<br/> - With thy religious truth and modesty,<br/> - Now in his ashes honour. Peace be with him!<br/> - patience, be near me still, and set me lower:<br/> - I have not long to trouble thee. Good Griffith,<br/> - Cause the musicians play me that sad note<br/> - I nam'd my knell, whilst I sit meditating<br/> - On that celestial harmony I go to.<br/> - [Sad and solemn music]<br/> - GRIFFITH. She is asleep. Good wench, let's sit down quiet,<br/> - For fear we wake her. Softly, gentle Patience.<br/> -</p> - -<h5>THE VISION.</h5> - -<p> Enter, solemnly tripping one after -another, six - PERSONAGES clad in white robes, wearing on their - heads garlands of bays, and golden vizards on their - faces; branches of bays or palm in their hands. They - first congee unto her, then dance; and, at certain - changes, the first two hold a spare garland over her - head, at which the other four make reverent curtsies. - Then the two that held the garland deliver the - same to the other next two, who observe the same - order in their changes, and holding the garland over - her head; which done, they deliver the same garland - to the last two, who likewise observe the same order; - at which, as it were by inspiration, she makes - in her sleep signs of rejoicing, and holdeth up her - hands to heaven. And so in their dancing vanish, - carrying the garland with them. The music continues</p> - -<p> KATHARINE. Spirits of peace, where are ye? Are ye all gone?<br/> - And leave me here in wretchedness behind ye?<br/> - GRIFFITH. Madam, we are here.<br/> - KATHARINE. It is not you I call for.<br/> - Saw ye none enter since I slept?<br/> - GRIFFITH. None, madam.<br/> - KATHARINE. No? Saw you not, even now, a blessed troop<br/> - Invite me to a banquet; whose bright faces<br/> - Cast thousand beams upon me, like the sun?<br/> - They promis'd me eternal happiness,<br/> - And brought me garlands, Griffith, which I feel<br/> - I am not worthy yet to wear. I shall, assuredly.<br/> - GRIFFITH. I am most joyful, madam, such good dreams<br/> - Possess your fancy.<br/> - KATHARINE. Bid the music leave,<br/> - They are harsh and heavy to me. [Music ceases]<br/> - PATIENCE. Do you note<br/> - How much her Grace is alter'd on the sudden?<br/> - How long her face is drawn! How pale she looks,<br/> - And of an earthly cold! Mark her eyes.<br/> - GRIFFITH. She is going, wench. Pray, pray.<br/> - PATIENCE. Heaven comfort her!<br/> -</p> - -<p> Enter a MESSENGER</p> - -<p> MESSENGER. An't like your Grace-<br/> - KATHARINE. You are a saucy fellow.<br/> - Deserve we no more reverence?<br/> - GRIFFITH. You are to blame,<br/> - Knowing she will not lose her wonted greatness,<br/> - To use so rude behaviour. Go to, kneel.<br/> - MESSENGER. I humbly do entreat your Highness' pardon;<br/> - My haste made me unmannerly. There is staying<br/> - A gentleman, sent from the King, to see you.<br/> - KATHARINE. Admit him entrance, Griffith; but this fellow<br/> - Let me ne'er see again. Exit MESSENGER<br/> -</p> - -<p> Enter LORD CAPUCIUS</p> - -<p> If my sight fail not,<br/> - You should be Lord Ambassador from the Emperor,<br/> - My royal nephew, and your name Capucius.<br/> - CAPUCIUS. Madam, the same-your servant.<br/> - KATHARINE. O, my Lord,<br/> - The times and titles now are alter'd strangely<br/> - With me since first you knew me. But, I pray you,<br/> - What is your pleasure with me?<br/> - CAPUCIUS. Noble lady,<br/> - First, mine own service to your Grace; the next,<br/> - The King's request that I would visit you,<br/> - Who grieves much for your weakness, and by me<br/> - Sends you his princely commendations<br/> - And heartily entreats you take good comfort.<br/> - KATHARINE. O my good lord, that comfort comes too late,<br/> - 'Tis like a pardon after execution:<br/> - That gentle physic, given in time, had cur'd me;<br/> - But now I am past all comforts here, but prayers.<br/> - How does his Highness?<br/> - CAPUCIUS. Madam, in good health.<br/> - KATHARINE. So may he ever do! and ever flourish<br/> - When I shall dwell with worms, and my poor name<br/> - Banish'd the kingdom! Patience, is that letter<br/> - I caus'd you write yet sent away?<br/> - PATIENCE. No, madam. [Giving it to KATHARINE]<br/> - KATHARINE. Sir, I most humbly pray you to deliver<br/> - This to my lord the King.<br/> - CAPUCIUS. Most willing, madam.<br/> - KATHARINE. In which I have commended to his goodness<br/> - The model of our chaste loves, his young daughter-<br/> - The dews of heaven fall thick in blessings on her!-<br/> - Beseeching him to give her virtuous breeding-<br/> - She is young, and of a noble modest nature;<br/> - I hope she will deserve well-and a little<br/> - To love her for her mother's sake, that lov'd him,<br/> - Heaven knows how dearly. My next poor petition<br/> - Is that his noble Grace would have some pity<br/> - Upon my wretched women that so long<br/> - Have follow'd both my fortunes faithfully;<br/> - Of which there is not one, I dare avow-<br/> - And now I should not lie-but will deserve,<br/> - For virtue and true beauty of the soul,<br/> - For honesty and decent carriage,<br/> - A right good husband, let him be a noble;<br/> - And sure those men are happy that shall have 'em.<br/> - The last is for my men-they are the poorest,<br/> - But poverty could never draw 'em from me-<br/> - That they may have their wages duly paid 'em,<br/> - And something over to remember me by.<br/> - If heaven had pleas'd to have given me longer life<br/> - And able means, we had not parted thus.<br/> - These are the whole contents; and, good my lord,<br/> - By that you love the dearest in this world,<br/> - As you wish Christian peace to souls departed,<br/> - Stand these poor people's friend, and urge the King<br/> - To do me this last right.<br/> - CAPUCIUS. By heaven, I will,<br/> - Or let me lose the fashion of a man!<br/> - KATHARINE. I thank you, honest lord. Remember me<br/> - In all humility unto his Highness;<br/> - Say his long trouble now is passing<br/> - Out of this world. Tell him in death I bless'd him,<br/> - For so I will. Mine eyes grow dim. Farewell,<br/> - My lord. Griffith, farewell. Nay, Patience,<br/> - You must not leave me yet. I must to bed;<br/> - Call in more women. When I am dead, good wench,<br/> - Let me be us'd with honour; strew me over<br/> - With maiden flowers, that all the world may know<br/> - I was a chaste wife to my grave. Embalm me,<br/> - Then lay me forth; although unqueen'd, yet like<br/> - A queen, and daughter to a king, inter me.<br/> - I can no more. Exeunt, leading KATHARINE<br/> +<p class="drama"> +Spirits, Several Lords and Ladies in the Dumb Shows; Women attending upon the +Queen; Scribes, Officers, Guards, and other Attendants </p> -<h4>ACT V. SCENE 1.</h4> +<h3><b>SCENE: London; Westminster; Kimbolton</b></h3> + +</div><!--end chapter--> + +<div class="chapter"> + +<p class="scenedesc">Enter <span class="charname">Prologue</span>.</p> + +<p class="drama"> +<a name="sceneI_15.0"></a> +THE PROLOGUE.<br/> +I come no more to make you laugh. Things now<br/> +That bear a weighty and a serious brow,<br/> +Sad, high, and working, full of state and woe,<br/> +Such noble scenes as draw the eye to flow,<br/> +We now present. Those that can pity, here<br/> +May, if they think it well, let fall a tear;<br/> +The subject will deserve it. Such as give<br/> +Their money out of hope they may believe<br/> +May here find truth too. Those that come to see<br/> +Only a show or two, and so agree<br/> +The play may pass, if they be still and willing,<br/> +I’ll undertake may see away their shilling<br/> +Richly in two short hours. Only they<br/> +That come to hear a merry bawdy play,<br/> +A noise of targets, or to see a fellow<br/> +In a long motley coat guarded with yellow,<br/> +Will be deceived. For, gentle hearers, know<br/> +To rank our chosen truth with such a show<br/> +As fool and fight is, beside forfeiting<br/> +Our own brains and the opinion that we bring<br/> +To make that only true we now intend,<br/> +Will leave us never an understanding friend.<br/> +Therefore, for goodness’ sake, and as you are known<br/> +The first and happiest hearers of the town,<br/> +Be sad, as we would make ye. Think ye see<br/> +The very persons of our noble story<br/> +As they were living; think you see them great,<br/> +And followed with the general throng and sweat<br/> +Of thousand friends; then, in a moment, see<br/> +How soon this mightiness meets misery;<br/> +And if you can be merry then, I’ll say<br/> +A man may weep upon his wedding day. +</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>Exit.</i>]</p> + +</div><!--end chapter--> + +<div class="chapter"> + +<h2><a name="sceneI_15.1"></a><b>ACT I</b></h2> + +<h3><b>SCENE I. London. An ante-chamber in the palace.</b></h3> + +<p class="scenedesc">Enter the <span class="charname">Duke of Norfolk</span> at +one door; at the other, the <span class="charname">Duke of Buckingham</span> +and the <span class="charname">Lord Abergavenny</span>.</p> + +<p class="drama"> +BUCKINGHAM.<br/> +Good morrow, and well met. How have ye done<br/> +Since last we saw in France?<br/> +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +NORFOLK.<br/> +I thank your Grace,<br/> +Healthful, and ever since a fresh admirer<br/> +Of what I saw there. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +BUCKINGHAM.<br/> +An untimely ague<br/> +Stayed me a prisoner in my chamber when<br/> +Those suns of glory, those two lights of men,<br/> +Met in the vale of Andren. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +NORFOLK.<br/> +’Twixt Guynes and Arde.<br/> +I was then present, saw them salute on horseback,<br/> +Beheld them when they lighted, how they clung<br/> +In their embracement, as they grew together—<br/> +Which had they, what four throned ones could have weighed<br/> +Such a compounded one? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +BUCKINGHAM.<br/> +All the whole time<br/> +I was my chamber’s prisoner. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +NORFOLK.<br/> +Then you lost<br/> +The view of earthly glory. Men might say,<br/> +Till this time pomp was single, but now married<br/> +To one above itself. Each following day<br/> +Became the next day’s master, till the last<br/> +Made former wonders its. Today the French,<br/> +All clinquant, all in gold, like heathen gods,<br/> +Shone down the English; and tomorrow, they<br/> +Made Britain India: every man that stood<br/> +Showed like a mine. Their dwarfish pages were<br/> +As cherubins, all gilt. The madams too,<br/> +Not used to toil, did almost sweat to bear<br/> +The pride upon them, that their very labour<br/> +Was to them as a painting. Now this masque<br/> +Was cried incomparable; and th’ ensuing night<br/> +Made it a fool and beggar. The two kings,<br/> +Equal in lustre, were now best, now worst,<br/> +As presence did present them: him in eye,<br/> +Still him in praise; and being present both,<br/> +’Twas said they saw but one, and no discerner<br/> +Durst wag his tongue in censure. When these suns—<br/> +For so they phrase ’em—by their heralds challenged<br/> +The noble spirits to arms, they did perform<br/> +Beyond thought’s compass, that former fabulous story,<br/> +Being now seen possible enough, got credit,<br/> +That Bevis was believed. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +BUCKINGHAM.<br/> +O, you go far. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +NORFOLK.<br/> +As I belong to worship and affect<br/> +In honour honesty, the tract of everything<br/> +Would by a good discourser lose some life,<br/> +Which action’s self was tongue to. All was royal;<br/> +To the disposing of it nought rebelled;<br/> +Order gave each thing view; the office did<br/> +Distinctly his full function. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +BUCKINGHAM.<br/> +Who did guide,<br/> +I mean, who set the body and the limbs<br/> +Of this great sport together, as you guess? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +NORFOLK.<br/> +One, certes, that promises no element<br/> +In such a business. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +BUCKINGHAM.<br/> +I pray you who, my lord? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +NORFOLK.<br/> +All this was ordered by the good discretion<br/> +Of the right reverend Cardinal of York. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +BUCKINGHAM.<br/> +The devil speed him! No man’s pie is freed<br/> +From his ambitious finger. What had he<br/> +To do in these fierce vanities? I wonder<br/> +That such a keech can with his very bulk<br/> +Take up the rays o’ th’ beneficial sun<br/> +And keep it from the earth. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +NORFOLK.<br/> +Surely, sir,<br/> +There’s in him stuff that puts him to these ends;<br/> +For, being not propped by ancestry, whose grace<br/> +Chalks successors their way, nor called upon<br/> +For high feats done to th’ crown; neither allied<br/> +To eminent assistants, but spider-like,<br/> +Out of his self-drawing web, he gives us note<br/> +The force of his own merit makes his way<br/> +A gift that heaven gives for him, which buys<br/> +A place next to the King. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +ABERGAVENNY.<br/> +I cannot tell<br/> +What heaven hath given him—let some graver eye<br/> +Pierce into that—but I can see his pride<br/> +Peep through each part of him. Whence has he that?<br/> +If not from hell, the devil is a niggard,<br/> +Or has given all before, and he begins<br/> +A new hell in himself. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +BUCKINGHAM.<br/> +Why the devil,<br/> +Upon this French going-out, took he upon him,<br/> +Without the privity o’ th’ King, t’ appoint<br/> +Who should attend on him? He makes up the file<br/> +Of all the gentry, for the most part such<br/> +To whom as great a charge as little honour<br/> +He meant to lay upon; and his own letter,<br/> +The honourable board of council out,<br/> +Must fetch him in he papers. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +ABERGAVENNY.<br/> +I do know<br/> +Kinsmen of mine, three at the least, that have<br/> +By this so sickened their estates that never<br/> +They shall abound as formerly. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +BUCKINGHAM.<br/> +O, many<br/> +Have broke their backs with laying manors on ’em<br/> +For this great journey. What did this vanity<br/> +But minister communication of<br/> +A most poor issue? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +NORFOLK.<br/> +Grievingly I think<br/> +The peace between the French and us not values<br/> +The cost that did conclude it. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +BUCKINGHAM.<br/> +Every man,<br/> +After the hideous storm that followed, was<br/> +A thing inspired and, not consulting, broke<br/> +Into a general prophecy, that this tempest,<br/> +Dashing the garment of this peace, aboded<br/> +The sudden breach on’t. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +NORFOLK.<br/> +Which is budded out,<br/> +For France hath flawed the league, and hath attached<br/> +Our merchants’ goods at Bordeaux. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +ABERGAVENNY.<br/> +Is it therefore<br/> +Th’ ambassador is silenced? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +NORFOLK.<br/> +Marry, is’t. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +ABERGAVENNY.<br/> +A proper title of a peace, and purchased<br/> +At a superfluous rate! +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +BUCKINGHAM.<br/> +Why, all this business<br/> +Our reverend Cardinal carried. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +NORFOLK.<br/> +Like it your Grace,<br/> +The state takes notice of the private difference<br/> +Betwixt you and the Cardinal. I advise you—<br/> +And take it from a heart that wishes towards you<br/> +Honour and plenteous safety—that you read<br/> +The Cardinal’s malice and his potency<br/> +Together; to consider further that<br/> +What his high hatred would effect wants not<br/> +A minister in his power. You know his nature,<br/> +That he’s revengeful, and I know his sword<br/> +Hath a sharp edge; it’s long, and ’t may be said<br/> +It reaches far, and where ’twill not extend,<br/> +Thither he darts it. Bosom up my counsel;<br/> +You’ll find it wholesome. Lo, where comes that rock<br/> +That I advise your shunning. +</p> + +<p class="scenedesc">Enter <span class="charname">Cardinal Wolsey</span>, the +purse borne before him, certain of the Guard and two <span +class="charname">Secretaries</span> with papers. The Cardinal in his passage +fixeth his eye on <span class="charname">Buckingham</span>, and Buckingham on +him, both full of disdain.</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +The Duke of Buckingham’s surveyor, ha?<br/> +Where’s his examination? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SECRETARY.<br/> +Here, so please you. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +Is he in person ready? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SECRETARY.<br/> +Ay, please your Grace. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +Well, we shall then know more, and Buckingham<br/> +Shall lessen this big look. +</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>Exeunt <span class="charname">Cardinal Wolsey</span> and his train.</i>]</p> + +<p class="drama"> +BUCKINGHAM.<br/> +This butcher’s cur is venom-mouthed, and I<br/> +Have not the power to muzzle him; therefore best<br/> +Not wake him in his slumber. A beggar’s book<br/> +Outworths a noble’s blood. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +NORFOLK.<br/> +What, are you chafed?<br/> +Ask God for temp’rance. That’s the appliance only<br/> +Which your disease requires. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +BUCKINGHAM.<br/> +I read in ’s looks<br/> +Matter against me, and his eye reviled<br/> +Me as his abject object. At this instant<br/> +He bores me with some trick. He’s gone to th’ King.<br/> +I’ll follow, and outstare him. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +NORFOLK.<br/> +Stay, my lord,<br/> +And let your reason with your choler question<br/> +What ’tis you go about. To climb steep hills<br/> +Requires slow pace at first. Anger is like<br/> +A full hot horse, who being allowed his way,<br/> +Self-mettle tires him. Not a man in England<br/> +Can advise me like you; be to yourself<br/> +As you would to your friend. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +BUCKINGHAM.<br/> +I’ll to the King,<br/> +And from a mouth of honour quite cry down<br/> +This Ipswich fellow’s insolence, or proclaim<br/> +There’s difference in no persons. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +NORFOLK.<br/> +Be advised.<br/> +Heat not a furnace for your foe so hot<br/> +That it do singe yourself. We may outrun<br/> +By violent swiftness that which we run at,<br/> +And lose by over-running. Know you not,<br/> +The fire that mounts the liquor till ’t run o’er,<br/> +In seeming to augment it wastes it? Be advised.<br/> +I say again, there is no English soul<br/> +More stronger to direct you than yourself,<br/> +If with the sap of reason you would quench,<br/> +Or but allay the fire of passion. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +BUCKINGHAM.<br/> +Sir,<br/> +I am thankful to you, and I’ll go along<br/> +By your prescription; but this top-proud fellow—<br/> +Whom from the flow of gall I name not, but<br/> +From sincere motions—by intelligence,<br/> +And proofs as clear as founts in July when<br/> +We see each grain of gravel, I do know<br/> +To be corrupt and treasonous. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +NORFOLK.<br/> +Say not “treasonous.” +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +BUCKINGHAM.<br/> +To th’ King I’ll say’t, and make my vouch as strong<br/> +As shore of rock. Attend. This holy fox,<br/> +Or wolf, or both—for he is equal ravenous<br/> +As he is subtle, and as prone to mischief<br/> +As able to perform’t, his mind and place<br/> +Infecting one another, yea, reciprocally—<br/> +Only to show his pomp as well in France<br/> +As here at home, suggests the King our master<br/> +To this last costly treaty, th’ interview,<br/> +That swallowed so much treasure, and like a glass<br/> +Did break i’ th’ rinsing. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +NORFOLK.<br/> +Faith, and so it did. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +BUCKINGHAM.<br/> +Pray give me favour, sir. This cunning Cardinal<br/> +The articles o’ th’ combination drew<br/> +As himself pleased; and they were ratified<br/> +As he cried “Thus let be,” to as much end<br/> +As give a crutch to the dead. But our Count-Cardinal<br/> +Has done this, and ’tis well, for worthy Wolsey,<br/> +Who cannot err, he did it. Now this follows—<br/> +Which, as I take it, is a kind of puppy<br/> +To the old dam treason—Charles the Emperor,<br/> +Under pretence to see the Queen his aunt—<br/> +For ’twas indeed his colour, but he came<br/> +To whisper Wolsey—here makes visitation.<br/> +His fears were that the interview betwixt<br/> +England and France might through their amity<br/> +Breed him some prejudice, for from this league<br/> +Peeped harms that menaced him. He privily<br/> +Deals with our Cardinal, and, as I trow—<br/> +Which I do well, for I am sure the Emperor<br/> +Paid ere he promised, whereby his suit was granted<br/> +Ere it was asked. But when the way was made<br/> +And paved with gold, the Emperor thus desired<br/> +That he would please to alter the King’s course<br/> +And break the foresaid peace. Let the King know,<br/> +As soon he shall by me, that thus the Cardinal<br/> +Does buy and sell his honour as he pleases<br/> +And for his own advantage. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +NORFOLK.<br/> +I am sorry<br/> +To hear this of him, and could wish he were<br/> +Something mistaken in’t. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +BUCKINGHAM.<br/> +No, not a syllable.<br/> +I do pronounce him in that very shape<br/> +He shall appear in proof. +</p> + +<p class="scenedesc">Enter <span class="charname">Brandon</span>, a +<span class="charname">Sergeant-at-arms</span> before him, and two or three of +the Guard.</p> + +<p class="drama"> +BRANDON.<br/> +Your office, sergeant: execute it. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SERGEANT.<br/> +Sir,<br/> +My lord the Duke of Buckingham, and Earl<br/> +Of Hereford, Stafford, and Northampton, I<br/> +Arrest thee of high treason, in the name<br/> +Of our most sovereign King. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +BUCKINGHAM.<br/> +Lo you, my lord,<br/> +The net has fall’n upon me. I shall perish<br/> +Under device and practice. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +BRANDON.<br/> +I am sorry<br/> +To see you ta’en from liberty, to look on<br/> +The business present. ’Tis his Highness’ pleasure<br/> +You shall to th’ Tower. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +BUCKINGHAM.<br/> +It will help nothing<br/> +To plead mine innocence, for that dye is on me<br/> +Which makes my whit’st part black. The will of heaven<br/> +Be done in this and all things. I obey.<br/> +O my Lord Abergavenny, fare you well. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +BRANDON.<br/> +Nay, he must bear you company.<br/> +[<i>To Abergavenny</i>.] The King<br/> +Is pleased you shall to th’ Tower, till you know<br/> +How he determines further. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +ABERGAVENNY.<br/> +As the Duke said,<br/> +The will of heaven be done, and the King’s pleasure<br/> +By me obeyed. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +BRANDON.<br/> +Here is warrant from<br/> +The King t’ attach Lord Montague, and the bodies<br/> +Of the Duke’s confessor, John de la Car,<br/> +One Gilbert Peck, his chancellor— +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +BUCKINGHAM.<br/> +So, so;<br/> +These are the limbs o’ th’ plot. No more, I hope? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +BRANDON.<br/> +A monk o’ th’ Chartreux. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +BUCKINGHAM.<br/> +O, Nicholas Hopkins? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +BRANDON.<br/> +He. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +BUCKINGHAM.<br/> +My surveyor is false. The o’er-great Cardinal<br/> +Hath showed him gold. My life is spanned already.<br/> +I am the shadow of poor Buckingham,<br/> +Whose figure even this instant cloud puts on<br/> +By dark’ning my clear sun. My lord, farewell. +</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>Exeunt.</i>]</p> + +<h3><a name="sceneI_15.2"></a><b>SCENE II. The same. The council-chamber.</b></h3> + +<p class="scenedesc">Cornets. Enter <span class="charname">King Henry</span>, +leaning on the <span class="charname">Cardinal’s</span> shoulder, the Nobles, and <span +class="charname">Sir Thomas Lovell</span>; the Cardinal places himself under +the King’s feet on his right side.</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +My life itself, and the best heart of it,<br/> +Thanks you for this great care. I stood i’ th’ level<br/> +Of a full-charged confederacy, and give thanks<br/> +To you that choked it. Let be called before us<br/> +That gentleman of Buckingham’s; in person<br/> +I’ll hear his confessions justify,<br/> +And point by point the treasons of his master<br/> +He shall again relate. +</p> + +<p class="scenedesc">A noise within crying “Room for the Queen!” Enter <span +class="charname">Queen Katherine</span>, ushered by the <span +class="charname">Duke of Norfolk</span> and the <span class="charname">Duke of +Suffolk</span>. She kneels. The <span class="charname">King</span> riseth from +his state, takes her up and kisses her.</p> + +<p class="drama"> +QUEEN KATHERINE.<br/> +Nay, we must longer kneel; I am a suitor. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +Arise, and take place by us. +</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>He placeth her by him.</i>]</p> + +<p class="drama"> +Half your suit<br/> +Never name to us; you have half our power;<br/> +The other moiety ere you ask is given.<br/> +Repeat your will and take it. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +QUEEN KATHERINE.<br/> +Thank your Majesty.<br/> +That you would love yourself, and in that love<br/> +Not unconsidered leave your honour nor<br/> +The dignity of your office, is the point<br/> +Of my petition. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +Lady mine, proceed. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +QUEEN KATHERINE.<br/> +I am solicited, not by a few,<br/> +And those of true condition, that your subjects<br/> +Are in great grievance. There have been commissions<br/> +Sent down among ’em which hath flawed the heart<br/> +Of all their loyalties; wherein, although,<br/> +My good Lord Cardinal, they vent reproaches<br/> +Most bitterly on you as putter-on<br/> +Of these exactions, yet the King our master,<br/> +Whose honour heaven shield from soil, even he escapes not<br/> +Language unmannerly, yea, such which breaks<br/> +The sides of loyalty, and almost appears<br/> +In loud rebellion. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +NORFOLK.<br/> +Not “almost appears,”<br/> +It doth appear; for, upon these taxations,<br/> +The clothiers all, not able to maintain<br/> +The many to them longing, have put off<br/> +The spinsters, carders, fullers, weavers, who,<br/> +Unfit for other life, compelled by hunger<br/> +And lack of other means, in desperate manner<br/> +Daring the event to th’ teeth, are all in uproar,<br/> +And danger serves among them. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +Taxation?<br/> +Wherein? And what taxation? My Lord Cardinal,<br/> +You that are blamed for it alike with us,<br/> +Know you of this taxation? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +Please you, sir,<br/> +I know but of a single part in aught<br/> +Pertains to th’ state, and front but in that file<br/> +Where others tell steps with me. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +QUEEN KATHERINE.<br/> +No, my lord?<br/> +You know no more than others? But you frame<br/> +Things that are known alike, which are not wholesome<br/> +To those which would not know them, and yet must<br/> +Perforce be their acquaintance. These exactions<br/> +Whereof my sovereign would have note, they are<br/> +Most pestilent to the hearing, and to bear ’em,<br/> +The back is sacrifice to the load. They say<br/> +They are devised by you, or else you suffer<br/> +Too hard an exclamation. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +Still exaction!<br/> +The nature of it? In what kind, let’s know,<br/> +Is this exaction? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +QUEEN KATHERINE.<br/> +I am much too venturous<br/> +In tempting of your patience, but am boldened<br/> +Under your promised pardon. The subjects’ grief<br/> +Comes through commissions, which compels from each<br/> +The sixth part of his substance, to be levied<br/> +Without delay; and the pretence for this<br/> +Is named your wars in France. This makes bold mouths.<br/> +Tongues spit their duties out, and cold hearts freeze<br/> +Allegiance in them. Their curses now<br/> +Live where their prayers did; and it’s come to pass<br/> +This tractable obedience is a slave<br/> +To each incensed will. I would your Highness<br/> +Would give it quick consideration, for<br/> +There is no primer business. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +By my life,<br/> +This is against our pleasure. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +And for me,<br/> +I have no further gone in this than by<br/> +A single voice, and that not passed me but<br/> +By learned approbation of the judges. If I am<br/> +Traduced by ignorant tongues, which neither know<br/> +My faculties nor person, yet will be<br/> +The chronicles of my doing, let me say<br/> +’Tis but the fate of place, and the rough brake<br/> +That virtue must go through. We must not stint<br/> +Our necessary actions in the fear<br/> +To cope malicious censurers, which ever,<br/> +As ravenous fishes, do a vessel follow<br/> +That is new-trimmed, but benefit no further<br/> +Than vainly longing. What we oft do best,<br/> +By sick interpreters, once weak ones, is<br/> +Not ours or not allowed; what worst, as oft,<br/> +Hitting a grosser quality, is cried up<br/> +For our best act. If we shall stand still<br/> +In fear our motion will be mocked or carped at,<br/> +We should take root here where we sit,<br/> +Or sit state-statues only. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +Things done well,<br/> +And with a care, exempt themselves from fear;<br/> +Things done without example, in their issue<br/> +Are to be feared. Have you a precedent<br/> +Of this commission? I believe, not any.<br/> +We must not rend our subjects from our laws<br/> +And stick them in our will. Sixth part of each?<br/> +A trembling contribution! Why, we take<br/> +From every tree lop, bark, and part o’ t’ timber,<br/> +And though we leave it with a root, thus hacked,<br/> +The air will drink the sap. To every county<br/> +Where this is questioned send our letters with<br/> +Free pardon to each man that has denied<br/> +The force of this commission. Pray, look to’t;<br/> +I put it to your care. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +[<i>Aside to his Secretary</i>.] A word with you.<br/> +Let there be letters writ to every shire<br/> +Of the King’s grace and pardon. The grieved commons<br/> +Hardly conceive of me. Let it be noised<br/> +That through our intercession this revokement<br/> +And pardon comes. I shall anon advise you<br/> +Further in the proceeding. +</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>Exit <span class="charname">Secretary</span>.</i>]</p> + +<p class="scenedesc">Enter <span class="charname">Surveyor</span>.</p> + +<p class="drama"> +QUEEN KATHERINE.<br/> +I am sorry that the Duke of Buckingham<br/> +Is run in your displeasure. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +It grieves many.<br/> +The gentleman is learned and a most rare speaker;<br/> +To nature none more bound; his training such<br/> +That he may furnish and instruct great teachers<br/> +And never seek for aid out of himself. Yet see,<br/> +When these so noble benefits shall prove<br/> +Not well disposed, the mind growing once corrupt,<br/> +They turn to vicious forms, ten times more ugly<br/> +Than ever they were fair. This man so complete,<br/> +Who was enrolled ’mongst wonders, and when we,<br/> +Almost with ravished list’ning, could not find<br/> +His hour of speech a minute—he, my lady,<br/> +Hath into monstrous habits put the graces<br/> +That once were his, and is become as black<br/> +As if besmeared in hell. Sit by us. You shall hear—<br/> +This was his gentleman in trust—of him<br/> +Things to strike honour sad. Bid him recount<br/> +The fore-recited practices, whereof<br/> +We cannot feel too little, hear too much. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +Stand forth, and with bold spirit relate what you,<br/> +Most like a careful subject, have collected<br/> +Out of the Duke of Buckingham. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +Speak freely. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SURVEYOR.<br/> +First, it was usual with him—every day<br/> +It would infect his speech—that if the King<br/> +Should without issue die, he’ll carry it so<br/> +To make the sceptre his. These very words<br/> +I’ve heard him utter to his son-in-law,<br/> +Lord Abergavenny; to whom by oath he menaced<br/> +Revenge upon the Cardinal. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +Please your Highness, note<br/> +This dangerous conception in this point,<br/> +Not friended by his wish to your high person<br/> +His will is most malignant, and it stretches<br/> +Beyond you to your friends. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +QUEEN KATHERINE.<br/> +My learned Lord Cardinal,<br/> +Deliver all with charity. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +Speak on.<br/> +How grounded he his title to the crown?<br/> +Upon our fail? To this point hast thou heard him<br/> +At any time speak aught? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SURVEYOR.<br/> +He was brought to this<br/> +By a vain prophecy of Nicholas Henton. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +What was that Henton? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SURVEYOR.<br/> +Sir, a Chartreux friar,<br/> +His confessor, who fed him every minute<br/> +With words of sovereignty. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +How know’st thou this? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SURVEYOR.<br/> +Not long before your Highness sped to France,<br/> +The Duke being at the Rose, within the parish<br/> +Saint Laurence Poultney, did of me demand<br/> +What was the speech among the Londoners<br/> +Concerning the French journey. I replied,<br/> +Men fear the French would prove perfidious,<br/> +To the King’s danger. Presently the Duke<br/> +Said ’twas the fear indeed, and that he doubted<br/> +’Twould prove the verity of certain words<br/> +Spoke by a holy monk, “that oft,” says he,<br/> +“Hath sent to me, wishing me to permit<br/> +John de la Car, my chaplain, a choice hour<br/> +To hear from him a matter of some moment;<br/> +Whom after under the confession’s seal<br/> +He solemnly had sworn that what he spoke<br/> +My chaplain to no creature living but<br/> +To me should utter, with demure confidence<br/> +This pausingly ensued: ‘Neither the King nor’s heirs,<br/> +Tell you the Duke—shall prosper. Bid him strive<br/> +To gain the love o’ th’ commonalty. The Duke<br/> +Shall govern England.’” +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +QUEEN KATHERINE.<br/> +If I know you well,<br/> +You were the Duke’s surveyor, and lost your office<br/> +On the complaint o’ th’ tenants. Take good heed<br/> +You charge not in your spleen a noble person<br/> +And spoil your nobler soul. I say, take heed—<br/> +Yes, heartily beseech you. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +Let him on.<br/> +Go forward. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SURVEYOR.<br/> +On my soul, I’ll speak but truth.<br/> +I told my lord the Duke, by th’ devil’s illusions<br/> +The monk might be deceived, and that ’twas dangerous<br/> +For him to ruminate on this so far until<br/> +It forged him some design, which, being believed,<br/> +It was much like to do. He answered, “Tush,<br/> +It can do me no damage,” adding further<br/> +That had the King in his last sickness failed,<br/> +The Cardinal’s and Sir Thomas Lovell’s heads<br/> +Should have gone off. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +Ha! What, so rank? Ah ha!<br/> +There’s mischief in this man. Canst thou say further? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SURVEYOR.<br/> +I can, my liege. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +Proceed. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SURVEYOR.<br/> +Being at Greenwich,<br/> +After your Highness had reproved the Duke<br/> +About Sir William Bulmer— +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +I remember<br/> +Of such a time, being my sworn servant,<br/> +The Duke retained him his. But on. What hence? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SURVEYOR.<br/> +“If,” quoth he, “I for this had been committed,”<br/> +As to the Tower, I thought, “I would have played<br/> +The part my father meant to act upon<br/> +Th’ usurper Richard who, being at Salisbury,<br/> +Made suit to come in ’s presence; which if granted,<br/> +As he made semblance of his duty, would<br/> +Have put his knife into him.” +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +A giant traitor! +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +Now, madam, may his Highness live in freedom,<br/> +And this man out of prison? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +QUEEN KATHERINE.<br/> +God mend all. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +There’s something more would out of thee. What sayst? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SURVEYOR.<br/> +After “the Duke his father,” with “the knife,”<br/> +He stretched him, and with one hand on his dagger,<br/> +Another spread on ’s breast, mounting his eyes,<br/> +He did discharge a horrible oath, whose tenour<br/> +Was, were he evil used, he would outgo<br/> +His father by as much as a performance<br/> +Does an irresolute purpose. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +There’s his period,<br/> +To sheathe his knife in us. He is attached.<br/> +Call him to present trial. If he may<br/> +Find mercy in the law, ’tis his; if none,<br/> +Let him not seek ’t of us. By day and night,<br/> +He’s traitor to th’ height! +</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>Exeunt.</i>]</p> + +<h3><a name="sceneI_15.3"></a><b>SCENE III. An ante-chamber in the palace.</b></h3> + +<p class="scenedesc">Enter <span class="charname">Lord Chamberlain </span> and +<span class="charname">Lord Sandys</span>.</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CHAMBERLAIN.<br/> +Is’t possible the spells of France should juggle<br/> +Men into such strange mysteries? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SANDYS.<br/> +New customs,<br/> +Though they be never so ridiculous—<br/> +Nay, let ’em be unmanly—yet are followed. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CHAMBERLAIN.<br/> +As far as I see, all the good our English<br/> +Have got by the late voyage is but merely<br/> +A fit or two o’ th’ face; but they are shrewd ones,<br/> +For when they hold ’em, you would swear directly<br/> +Their very noses had been counsellors<br/> +To Pepin or Clotharius, they keep state so. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SANDYS.<br/> +They have all new legs, and lame ones. One would take it,<br/> +That never saw ’em pace before, the spavin<br/> +Or springhalt reigned among ’em. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CHAMBERLAIN.<br/> +Death! My lord,<br/> +Their clothes are after such a pagan cut to’t,<br/> +That, sure, they’ve worn out Christendom. +</p> + +<p class="scenedesc">Enter <span class="charname">Sir Thomas Lovell</span>.</p> + +<p class="drama"> +How now?<br/> +What news, Sir Thomas Lovell? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +LOVELL.<br/> +Faith, my lord,<br/> +I hear of none but the new proclamation<br/> +That’s clapped upon the court gate. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CHAMBERLAIN.<br/> +What is’t for? +</p> -<p>London. A gallery in the palace</p> - -<p>Enter GARDINER, BISHOP OF WINCHESTER, a PAGE with a torch before him, -met by SIR THOMAS LOVELL</p> - -<p> GARDINER. It's one o'clock, boy, is't not?<br/> - BOY. It hath struck.<br/> - GARDINER. These should be hours for necessities,<br/> - Not for delights; times to repair our nature<br/> - With comforting repose, and not for us<br/> - To waste these times. Good hour of night, Sir Thomas!<br/> - Whither so late?<br/> - LOVELL. Came you from the King, my lord?<br/> - GARDINER. I did, Sir Thomas, and left him at primero<br/> - With the Duke of Suffolk.<br/> - LOVELL. I must to him too,<br/> - Before he go to bed. I'll take my leave.<br/> - GARDINER. Not yet, Sir Thomas Lovell. What's the matter?<br/> - It seems you are in haste. An if there be<br/> - No great offence belongs to't, give your friend<br/> - Some touch of your late business. Affairs that walk-<br/> - As they say spirits do-at midnight, have<br/> - In them a wilder nature than the business<br/> - That seeks despatch by day.<br/> - LOVELL. My lord, I love you;<br/> - And durst commend a secret to your ear<br/> - Much weightier than this work. The Queen's in labour,<br/> - They say in great extremity, and fear'd<br/> - She'll with the labour end.<br/> - GARDINER. The fruit she goes with<br/> - I pray for heartily, that it may find<br/> - Good time, and live; but for the stock, Sir Thomas,<br/> - I wish it grubb'd up now.<br/> - LOVELL. Methinks I could<br/> - Cry thee amen; and yet my conscience says<br/> - She's a good creature, and, sweet lady, does<br/> - Deserve our better wishes.<br/> - GARDINER. But, sir, sir-<br/> - Hear me, Sir Thomas. Y'are a gentleman<br/> - Of mine own way; I know you wise, religious;<br/> - And, let me tell you, it will ne'er be well-<br/> - 'Twill not, Sir Thomas Lovell, take't of me-<br/> - Till Cranmer, Cromwell, her two hands, and she,<br/> - Sleep in their graves.<br/> - LOVELL. Now, sir, you speak of two<br/> - The most remark'd i' th' kingdom. As for Cromwell,<br/> - Beside that of the Jewel House, is made Master<br/> - O' th' Rolls, and the King's secretary; further, sir,<br/> - Stands in the gap and trade of moe preferments,<br/> - With which the time will load him. Th' Archbishop<br/> - Is the King's hand and tongue, and who dare speak<br/> - One syllable against him?<br/> - GARDINER. Yes, yes, Sir Thomas,<br/> - There are that dare; and I myself have ventur'd<br/> - To speak my mind of him; and indeed this day,<br/> - Sir-I may tell it you-I think I have<br/> - Incens'd the lords o' th' Council, that he is-<br/> - For so I know he is, they know he is-<br/> - A most arch heretic, a pestilence<br/> - That does infect the land; with which they moved<br/> - Have broken with the King, who hath so far<br/> - Given ear to our complaint-of his great grace<br/> - And princely care, foreseeing those fell mischiefs<br/> - Our reasons laid before him-hath commanded<br/> - To-morrow morning to the Council board<br/> - He be convented. He's a rank weed, Sir Thomas,<br/> - And we must root him out. From your affairs<br/> - I hinder you too long-good night, Sir Thomas.<br/> - LOVELL. Many good nights, my lord; I rest your servant.<br/> - Exeunt GARDINER and PAGE<br/> -</p> - -<p> Enter the KING and the DUKE OF SUFFOLK</p> - -<p> KING. Charles, I will play no more to-night;<br/> - My mind's not on't; you are too hard for me.<br/> - SUFFOLK. Sir, I did never win of you before.<br/> - KING. But little, Charles;<br/> - Nor shall not, when my fancy's on my play.<br/> - Now, Lovell, from the Queen what is the news?<br/> - LOVELL. I could not personally deliver to her<br/> - What you commanded me, but by her woman<br/> - I sent your message; who return'd her thanks<br/> - In the great'st humbleness, and desir'd your Highness<br/> - Most heartily to pray for her.<br/> - KING. What say'st thou, ha?<br/> - To pray for her? What, is she crying out?<br/> - LOVELL. So said her woman; and that her suff'rance made<br/> - Almost each pang a death.<br/> - KING. Alas, good lady!<br/> - SUFFOLK. God safely quit her of her burden, and<br/> - With gentle travail, to the gladding of<br/> - Your Highness with an heir!<br/> - KING. 'Tis midnight, Charles;<br/> - Prithee to bed; and in thy pray'rs remember<br/> - Th' estate of my poor queen. Leave me alone,<br/> - For I must think of that which company<br/> - Will not be friendly to.<br/> - SUFFOLK. I wish your Highness<br/> - A quiet night, and my good mistress will<br/> - Remember in my prayers.<br/> - KING. Charles, good night. Exit SUFFOLK<br/> -</p> - -<p> Enter SIR ANTHONY DENNY</p> - -<p> Well, sir, what follows?<br/> - DENNY. Sir, I have brought my lord the Archbishop,<br/> - As you commanded me.<br/> - KING. Ha! Canterbury?<br/> - DENNY. Ay, my good lord.<br/> - KING. 'Tis true. Where is he, Denny?<br/> - DENNY. He attends your Highness' pleasure.<br/> - KING. Bring him to us. Exit DENNY<br/> - LOVELL. [Aside] This is about that which the bishop spake.<br/> - I am happily come hither.<br/> -</p> - -<p> Re-enter DENNY, With CRANMER</p> - -<p> KING. Avoid the gallery. [LOVELL seems to stay]<br/> - Ha! I have said. Be gone.<br/> - What! Exeunt LOVELL and DENNY<br/> - CRANMER. [Aside] I am fearful-wherefore frowns he thus?<br/> - 'Tis his aspect of terror. All's not well.<br/> - KING. How now, my lord? You do desire to know<br/> - Wherefore I sent for you.<br/> - CRANMER. [Kneeling] It is my duty<br/> - T'attend your Highness' pleasure.<br/> - KING. Pray you, arise,<br/> - My good and gracious Lord of Canterbury.<br/> - Come, you and I must walk a turn together;<br/> - I have news to tell you; come, come, me your hand.<br/> - Ah, my good lord, I grieve at what I speak,<br/> - And am right sorry to repeat what follows.<br/> - I have, and most unwillingly, of late<br/> - Heard many grievous-I do say, my lord,<br/> - Grievous-complaints of you; which, being consider'd,<br/> - Have mov'd us and our Council that you shall<br/> - This morning come before us; where I know<br/> - You cannot with such freedom purge yourself<br/> - But that, till further trial in those charges<br/> - Which will require your answer, you must take<br/> - Your patience to you and be well contented<br/> - To make your house our Tow'r. You a brother of us,<br/> - It fits we thus proceed, or else no witness<br/> - Would come against you.<br/> - CRANMER. I humbly thank your Highness<br/> - And am right glad to catch this good occasion<br/> - Most throughly to be winnowed where my chaff<br/> - And corn shall fly asunder; for I know<br/> - There's none stands under more calumnious tongues<br/> - Than I myself, poor man.<br/> - KING. Stand up, good Canterbury;<br/> - Thy truth and thy integrity is rooted<br/> - In us, thy friend. Give me thy hand, stand up;<br/> - Prithee let's walk. Now, by my holidame,<br/> - What manner of man are you? My lord, I look'd<br/> - You would have given me your petition that<br/> - I should have ta'en some pains to bring together<br/> - Yourself and your accusers, and to have heard you<br/> - Without indurance further.<br/> - CRANMER. Most dread liege,<br/> - The good I stand on is my truth and honesty;<br/> - If they shall fail, I with mine enemies<br/> - Will triumph o'er my person; which I weigh not,<br/> - Being of those virtues vacant. I fear nothing<br/> - What can be said against me.<br/> - KING. Know you not<br/> - How your state stands i' th' world, with the whole world?<br/> - Your enemies are many, and not small; their practices<br/> - Must bear the same proportion; and not ever<br/> - The justice and the truth o' th' question carries<br/> - The due o' th' verdict with it; at what ease<br/> - Might corrupt minds procure knaves as corrupt<br/> - To swear against you? Such things have been done.<br/> - You are potently oppos'd, and with a malice<br/> - Of as great size. Ween you of better luck,<br/> - I mean in perjur'd witness, than your Master,<br/> - Whose minister you are, whiles here He liv'd<br/> - Upon this naughty earth? Go to, go to;<br/> - You take a precipice for no leap of danger,<br/> - And woo your own destruction.<br/> - CRANMER. God and your Majesty<br/> - Protect mine innocence, or I fall into<br/> - The trap is laid for me!<br/> - KING. Be of good cheer;<br/> - They shall no more prevail than we give way to.<br/> - Keep comfort to you, and this morning see<br/> - You do appear before them; if they shall chance,<br/> - In charging you with matters, to commit you,<br/> - The best persuasions to the contrary<br/> - Fail not to use, and with what vehemency<br/> - Th' occasion shall instruct you. If entreaties<br/> - Will render you no remedy, this ring<br/> - Deliver them, and your appeal to us<br/> - There make before them. Look, the good man weeps!<br/> - He's honest, on mine honour. God's blest Mother!<br/> - I swear he is true-hearted, and a soul<br/> - None better in my kingdom. Get you gone,<br/> - And do as I have bid you.<br/> - Exit CRANMER<br/> - He has strangled his language in his tears.<br/> -</p> - -<p> Enter OLD LADY</p> - -<p> GENTLEMAN. [Within] Come back; what mean you?<br/> - OLD LADY. I'll not come back; the tidings that I bring<br/> - Will make my boldness manners. Now, good angels<br/> - Fly o'er thy royal head, and shade thy person<br/> - Under their blessed wings!<br/> - KING. Now, by thy looks<br/> - I guess thy message. Is the Queen deliver'd?<br/> - Say ay, and of a boy.<br/> - OLD LADY. Ay, ay, my liege;<br/> - And of a lovely boy. The God of Heaven<br/> - Both now and ever bless her! 'Tis a girl,<br/> - Promises boys hereafter. Sir, your queen<br/> - Desires your visitation, and to be<br/> - Acquainted with this stranger; 'tis as like you<br/> - As cherry is to cherry.<br/> - KING. Lovell!<br/> -</p> - -<p> Enter LOVELL</p> - -<p> LOVELL. Sir?<br/> - KING. Give her an hundred marks. I'll to the Queen. Exit<br/> - OLD LADY. An hundred marks? By this light, I'll ha' more!<br/> - An ordinary groom is for such payment.<br/> - I will have more, or scold it out of him.<br/> - Said I for this the girl was like to him! I'll<br/> - Have more, or else unsay't; and now, while 'tis hot,<br/> - I'll put it to the issue. Exeunt<br/> -</p> - -<h4>ACT V. SCENE 2.</h4> - -<p>Lobby before the Council Chamber</p> - -<p>Enter CRANMER, ARCHBISHOP OF CANTERBURY</p> - -<p> CRANMER. I hope I am not too late; and yet the gentleman<br/> - That was sent to me from the Council pray'd me<br/> - To make great haste. All fast? What means this? Ho!<br/> - Who waits there? Sure you know me?<br/> -</p> - -<p> Enter KEEPER</p> - -<p> KEEPER. Yes, my lord;<br/> - But yet I cannot help you.<br/> - CRANMER. Why?<br/> - KEEPER. Your Grace must wait till you be call'd for.<br/> -</p> - -<p> Enter DOCTOR BUTTS</p> - -<p> CRANMER. So.<br/> - BUTTS. [Aside] This is a piece of malice. I am glad<br/> - I came this way so happily; the King<br/> - Shall understand it presently. Exit<br/> - CRANMER. [Aside] 'Tis Butts,<br/> - The King's physician; as he pass'd along,<br/> - How earnestly he cast his eyes upon me!<br/> - Pray heaven he sound not my disgrace! For certain,<br/> - This is of purpose laid by some that hate me-<br/> - God turn their hearts! I never sought their malice-<br/> - To quench mine honour; they would shame to make me<br/> - Wait else at door, a fellow councillor,<br/> - 'Mong boys, grooms, and lackeys. But their pleasures<br/> - Must be fulfill'd, and I attend with patience.<br/> -</p> - -<p> Enter the KING and BUTTS at window above</p> - -<p> BUTTS. I'll show your Grace the strangest sight-<br/> - KING. What's that, Butts?<br/> - BUTTS. I think your Highness saw this many a day.<br/> - KING. Body a me, where is it?<br/> - BUTTS. There my lord:<br/> - The high promotion of his Grace of Canterbury;<br/> - Who holds his state at door, 'mongst pursuivants,<br/> - Pages, and footboys.<br/> - KING. Ha, 'tis he indeed.<br/> - Is this the honour they do one another?<br/> - 'Tis well there's one above 'em yet. I had thought<br/> - They had parted so much honesty among 'em-<br/> - At least good manners-as not thus to suffer<br/> - A man of his place, and so near our favour,<br/> - To dance attendance on their lordships' pleasures,<br/> - And at the door too, like a post with packets.<br/> - By holy Mary, Butts, there's knavery!<br/> - Let 'em alone, and draw the curtain close;<br/> - We shall hear more anon. Exeunt<br/> -</p> - -<h4>ACT V. SCENE 3.</h4> - -<p>The Council Chamber</p> - -<p>A Council table brought in, with chairs and stools, and placed -under the state. Enter LORD CHANCELLOR, places himself at the upper end -of the table on the left band, a seat being left void above him, -as for Canterbury's seat. DUKE OF SUFFOLK, DUKE OF NORFOLK, SURREY, -LORD CHAMBERLAIN, GARDINER, seat themselves in order on each side; -CROMWELL at lower end, as secretary. KEEPER at the door</p> - -<p> CHANCELLOR. Speak to the business, master secretary;<br/> - Why are we met in council?<br/> - CROMWELL. Please your honours,<br/> - The chief cause concerns his Grace of Canterbury.<br/> - GARDINER. Has he had knowledge of it?<br/> - CROMWELL. Yes.<br/> - NORFOLK. Who waits there?<br/> - KEEPER. Without, my noble lords?<br/> - GARDINER. Yes.<br/> - KEEPER. My Lord Archbishop;<br/> - And has done half an hour, to know your pleasures.<br/> - CHANCELLOR. Let him come in.<br/> - KEEPER. Your Grace may enter now.<br/> -</p> - -<p> CRANMER approaches the Council table</p> - -<p> CHANCELLOR. My good Lord Archbishop, I am very sorry<br/> - To sit here at this present, and behold<br/> - That chair stand empty; but we all are men,<br/> - In our own natures frail and capable<br/> - Of our flesh; few are angels; out of which frailty<br/> - And want of wisdom, you, that best should teach us,<br/> - Have misdemean'd yourself, and not a little,<br/> - Toward the King first, then his laws, in filling<br/> - The whole realm by your teaching and your chaplains-<br/> - For so we are inform'd-with new opinions,<br/> - Divers and dangerous; which are heresies,<br/> - And, not reform'd, may prove pernicious.<br/> - GARDINER. Which reformation must be sudden too,<br/> - My noble lords; for those that tame wild horses<br/> - Pace 'em not in their hands to make 'em gentle,<br/> - But stop their mouth with stubborn bits and spur 'em<br/> - Till they obey the manage. If we suffer,<br/> - Out of our easiness and childish pity<br/> - To one man's honour, this contagious sickness,<br/> - Farewell all physic; and what follows then?<br/> - Commotions, uproars, with a general taint<br/> - Of the whole state; as of late days our neighbours,<br/> - The upper Germany, can dearly witness,<br/> - Yet freshly pitied in our memories.<br/> - CRANMER. My good lords, hitherto in all the progress<br/> - Both of my life and office, I have labour'd,<br/> - And with no little study, that my teaching<br/> - And the strong course of my authority<br/> - Might go one way, and safely; and the end<br/> - Was ever to do well. Nor is there living-<br/> - I speak it with a single heart, my lords-<br/> - A man that more detests, more stirs against,<br/> - Both in his private conscience and his place,<br/> - Defacers of a public peace than I do.<br/> - Pray heaven the King may never find a heart<br/> - With less allegiance in it! Men that make<br/> - Envy and crooked malice nourishment<br/> - Dare bite the best. I do beseech your lordships<br/> - That, in this case of justice, my accusers,<br/> - Be what they will, may stand forth face to face<br/> - And freely urge against me.<br/> - SUFFOLK. Nay, my lord,<br/> - That cannot be; you are a councillor,<br/> - And by that virtue no man dare accuse you.<br/> - GARDINER. My lord, because we have business of more moment,<br/> - We will be short with you. 'Tis his Highness' pleasure<br/> - And our consent, for better trial of you,<br/> - From hence you be committed to the Tower;<br/> - Where, being but a private man again,<br/> - You shall know many dare accuse you boldly,<br/> - More than, I fear, you are provided for.<br/> - CRANMER. Ah, my good Lord of Winchester, I thank you;<br/> - You are always my good friend; if your will pass,<br/> - I shall both find your lordship judge and juror,<br/> - You are so merciful. I see your end-<br/> - 'Tis my undoing. Love and meekness, lord,<br/> - Become a churchman better than ambition;<br/> - Win straying souls with modesty again,<br/> - Cast none away. That I shall clear myself,<br/> - Lay all the weight ye can upon my patience,<br/> - I make as little doubt as you do conscience<br/> - In doing daily wrongs. I could say more,<br/> - But reverence to your calling makes me modest.<br/> - GARDINER. My lord, my lord, you are a sectary;<br/> - That's the plain truth. Your painted gloss discovers,<br/> - To men that understand you, words and weakness.<br/> - CROMWELL. My Lord of Winchester, y'are a little,<br/> - By your good favour, too sharp; men so noble,<br/> - However faulty, yet should find respect<br/> - For what they have been; 'tis a cruelty<br/> - To load a falling man.<br/> - GARDINER. Good Master Secretary,<br/> - I cry your honour mercy; you may, worst<br/> - Of all this table, say so.<br/> - CROMWELL. Why, my lord?<br/> - GARDINER. Do not I know you for a favourer<br/> - Of this new sect? Ye are not sound.<br/> - CROMWELL. Not sound?<br/> - GARDINER. Not sound, I say.<br/> - CROMWELL. Would you were half so honest!<br/> - Men's prayers then would seek you, not their fears.<br/> - GARDINER. I shall remember this bold language.<br/> - CROMWELL. Do.<br/> - Remember your bold life too.<br/> - CHANCELLOR. This is too much;<br/> - Forbear, for shame, my lords.<br/> - GARDINER. I have done.<br/> - CROMWELL. And I.<br/> - CHANCELLOR. Then thus for you, my lord: it stands agreed,<br/> - I take it, by all voices, that forthwith<br/> - You be convey'd to th' Tower a prisoner;<br/> - There to remain till the King's further pleasure<br/> - Be known unto us. Are you all agreed, lords?<br/> - ALL. We are.<br/> - CRANMER. Is there no other way of mercy,<br/> - But I must needs to th' Tower, my lords?<br/> - GARDINER. What other<br/> - Would you expect? You are strangely troublesome.<br/> - Let some o' th' guard be ready there.<br/> -</p> - -<p> Enter the guard</p> - -<p> CRANMER. For me?<br/> - Must I go like a traitor thither?<br/> - GARDINER. Receive him,<br/> - And see him safe i' th' Tower.<br/> - CRANMER. Stay, good my lords,<br/> - I have a little yet to say. Look there, my lords;<br/> - By virtue of that ring I take my cause<br/> - Out of the gripes of cruel men and give it<br/> - To a most noble judge, the King my master.<br/> - CHAMBERLAIN. This is the King's ring.<br/> - SURREY. 'Tis no counterfeit.<br/> - SUFFOLK. 'Tis the right ring, by heav'n. I told ye all,<br/> - When we first put this dangerous stone a-rolling,<br/> - 'Twould fall upon ourselves.<br/> - NORFOLK. Do you think, my lords,<br/> - The King will suffer but the little finger<br/> - Of this man to be vex'd?<br/> - CHAMBERLAIN. 'Tis now too certain;<br/> - How much more is his life in value with him!<br/> - Would I were fairly out on't!<br/> - CROMWELL. My mind gave me,<br/> - In seeking tales and informations<br/> - Against this man-whose honesty the devil<br/> - And his disciples only envy at-<br/> - Ye blew the fire that burns ye. Now have at ye!<br/> -</p> - -<p> Enter the KING frowning on them; he takes his seat</p> - -<p> GARDINER. Dread sovereign, how much are we bound to heaven<br/> - In daily thanks, that gave us such a prince;<br/> - Not only good and wise but most religious;<br/> - One that in all obedience makes the church<br/> - The chief aim of his honour and, to strengthen<br/> - That holy duty, out of dear respect,<br/> - His royal self in judgment comes to hear<br/> - The cause betwixt her and this great offender.<br/> - KING. You were ever good at sudden commendations,<br/> - Bishop of Winchester. But know I come not<br/> - To hear such flattery now, and in my presence<br/> - They are too thin and bare to hide offences.<br/> - To me you cannot reach you play the spaniel,<br/> - And think with wagging of your tongue to win me;<br/> - But whatsoe'er thou tak'st me for, I'm sure<br/> - Thou hast a cruel nature and a bloody.<br/> - [To CRANMER] Good man, sit down. Now let me see the proudest<br/> - He that dares most but wag his finger at thee.<br/> - By all that's holy, he had better starve<br/> - Than but once think this place becomes thee not.<br/> - SURREY. May it please your Grace-<br/> - KING. No, sir, it does not please me.<br/> - I had thought I had had men of some understanding<br/> - And wisdom of my Council; but I find none.<br/> - Was it discretion, lords, to let this man,<br/> - This good man-few of you deserve that title-<br/> - This honest man, wait like a lousy footboy<br/> - At chamber door? and one as great as you are?<br/> - Why, what a shame was this! Did my commission<br/> - Bid ye so far forget yourselves? I gave ye<br/> - Power as he was a councillor to try him,<br/> - Not as a groom. There's some of ye, I see,<br/> - More out of malice than integrity,<br/> - Would try him to the utmost, had ye mean;<br/> - Which ye shall never have while I live.<br/> - CHANCELLOR. Thus far,<br/> - My most dread sovereign, may it like your Grace<br/> - To let my tongue excuse all. What was purpos'd<br/> - concerning his imprisonment was rather-<br/> - If there be faith in men-meant for his trial<br/> - And fair purgation to the world, than malice,<br/> - I'm sure, in me.<br/> - KING. Well, well, my lords, respect him;<br/> - Take him, and use him well, he's worthy of it.<br/> - I will say thus much for him: if a prince<br/> - May be beholding to a subject,<br/> - Am for his love and service so to him.<br/> - Make me no more ado, but all embrace him;<br/> - Be friends, for shame, my lords! My Lord of Canterbury,<br/> - I have a suit which you must not deny me:<br/> - That is, a fair young maid that yet wants baptism;<br/> - You must be godfather, and answer for her.<br/> - CRANMER. The greatest monarch now alive may glory<br/> - In such an honour; how may I deserve it,<br/> - That am a poor and humble subject to you?<br/> - KING. Come, come, my lord, you'd spare your spoons. You<br/> - shall have<br/> - Two noble partners with you: the old Duchess of Norfolk<br/> - And Lady Marquis Dorset. Will these please you?<br/> - Once more, my Lord of Winchester, I charge you,<br/> - Embrace and love this man.<br/> - GARDINER. With a true heart<br/> - And brother-love I do it.<br/> - CRANMER. And let heaven<br/> - Witness how dear I hold this confirmation.<br/> - KING. Good man, those joyful tears show thy true heart.<br/> - The common voice, I see, is verified<br/> - Of thee, which says thus: 'Do my Lord of Canterbury<br/> - A shrewd turn and he's your friend for ever.'<br/> - Come, lords, we trifle time away; I long<br/> - To have this young one made a Christian.<br/> - As I have made ye one, lords, one remain;<br/> - So I grow stronger, you more honour gain. Exeunt<br/> -</p> - -<h4>ACT V. SCENE 4.</h4> - -<p>The palace yard</p> - -<p>Noise and tumult within. Enter PORTER and his MAN</p> - -<p> PORTER. You'll leave your noise anon, ye rascals. Do you<br/> - take the court for Paris garden? Ye rude slaves, leave your<br/> - gaping.<br/> - [Within: Good master porter, I belong to th' larder.]<br/> - PORTER. Belong to th' gallows, and be hang'd, ye rogue! Is<br/> - this a place to roar in? Fetch me a dozen crab-tree staves,<br/> - and strong ones; these are but switches to 'em. I'll scratch<br/> - your heads. You must be seeing christenings? Do you look<br/> - for ale and cakes here, you rude rascals?<br/> - MAN. Pray, sir, be patient; 'tis as much impossible,<br/> - Unless we sweep 'em from the door with cannons,<br/> - To scatter 'em as 'tis to make 'em sleep<br/> - On May-day morning; which will never be.<br/> - We may as well push against Paul's as stir 'em.<br/> - PORTER. How got they in, and be hang'd?<br/> - MAN. Alas, I know not: how gets the tide in?<br/> - As much as one sound cudgel of four foot-<br/> - You see the poor remainder-could distribute,<br/> - I made no spare, sir.<br/> - PORTER. You did nothing, sir.<br/> - MAN. I am not Samson, nor Sir Guy, nor Colbrand,<br/> - To mow 'em down before me; but if I spar'd any<br/> - That had a head to hit, either young or old,<br/> - He or she, cuckold or cuckold-maker,<br/> - Let me ne'er hope to see a chine again;<br/> - And that I would not for a cow, God save her!<br/> - [ Within: Do you hear, master porter?]<br/> - PORTER. I shall be with you presently, good master puppy.<br/> - Keep the door close, sirrah.<br/> - MAN. What would you have me do?<br/> - PORTER. What should you do, but knock 'em down by th'<br/> - dozens? Is this Moorfields to muster in? Or have we some<br/> - strange Indian with the great tool come to court, the<br/> - women so besiege us? Bless me, what a fry of fornication<br/> - is at door! On my Christian conscience, this one christening<br/> - will beget a thousand: here will be father, godfather,<br/> - and all together.<br/> - MAN. The spoons will be the bigger, sir. There is a fellow<br/> - somewhat near the door, he should be a brazier by his<br/> - face, for, o' my conscience, twenty of the dog-days now<br/> - reign in's nose; all that stand about him are under the line,<br/> - they need no other penance. That fire-drake did I hit three<br/> - times on the head, and three times was his nose discharged<br/> - against me; he stands there like a mortar-piece, to blow us.<br/> - There was a haberdasher's wife of small wit near him, that<br/> - rail'd upon me till her pink'd porringer fell off her head,<br/> - for kindling such a combustion in the state. I miss'd the<br/> - meteor once, and hit that woman, who cried out 'Clubs!'<br/> - when I might see from far some forty truncheoners draw<br/> - to her succour, which were the hope o' th' Strand, where<br/> - she was quartered. They fell on; I made good my place.<br/> - At length they came to th' broomstaff to me; I defied 'em<br/> - still; when suddenly a file of boys behind 'em, loose shot,<br/> - deliver'd such a show'r of pebbles that I was fain to draw<br/> - mine honour in and let 'em win the work: the devil was<br/> - amongst 'em, I think surely.<br/> - PORTER. These are the youths that thunder at a playhouse<br/> - and fight for bitten apples; that no audience but the tribulation<br/> - of Tower-hill or the limbs of Limehouse, their dear<br/> - brothers, are able to endure. I have some of 'em in Limbo<br/> - Patrum, and there they are like to dance these three days;<br/> - besides the running banquet of two beadles that is to come.<br/> -</p> - -<p> Enter the LORD CHAMBERLAIN</p> - -<p> CHAMBERLAIN. Mercy o' me, what a multitude are here!<br/> - They grow still too; from all parts they are coming,<br/> - As if we kept a fair here! Where are these porters,<br/> - These lazy knaves? Y'have made a fine hand, fellows.<br/> - There's a trim rabble let in: are all these<br/> - Your faithful friends o' th' suburbs? We shall have<br/> - Great store of room, no doubt, left for the ladies,<br/> - When they pass back from the christening.<br/> - PORTER. An't please your honour,<br/> - We are but men; and what so many may do,<br/> - Not being torn a pieces, we have done.<br/> - An army cannot rule 'em.<br/> - CHAMBERLAIN. As I live,<br/> - If the King blame me for't, I'll lay ye an<br/> - By th' heels, and suddenly; and on your heads<br/> - Clap round fines for neglect. Y'are lazy knaves;<br/> - And here ye lie baiting of bombards, when<br/> - Ye should do service. Hark! the trumpets sound;<br/> - Th' are come already from the christening.<br/> - Go break among the press and find a way out<br/> - To let the troops pass fairly, or I'll find<br/> - A Marshalsea shall hold ye play these two months.<br/> - PORTER. Make way there for the Princess.<br/> - MAN. You great fellow,<br/> - Stand close up, or I'll make your head ache.<br/> - PORTER. You i' th' camlet, get up o' th' rail;<br/> - I'll peck you o'er the pales else. Exeunt<br/> -</p> - -<h4>ACT V. SCENE 5.</h4> - -<p>The palace</p> - -<p>Enter TRUMPETS, sounding; then two ALDERMEN, LORD MAYOR, GARTER, CRANMER, -DUKE OF NORFOLK, with his marshal's staff, DUKE OF SUFFOLK, -two Noblemen bearing great standing-bowls for the christening gifts; -then four Noblemen bearing a canopy, under which the DUCHESS OF NORFOLK, -godmother, bearing the CHILD richly habited in a mantle, etc., -train borne by a LADY; then follows the MARCHIONESS DORSET, -the other godmother, and LADIES. The troop pass once about the stage, -and GARTER speaks</p> - -<p> GARTER. Heaven, from thy endless goodness, -send prosperous - life, long and ever-happy, to the high and mighty - Princess of England, Elizabeth!</p> - -<p> Flourish. Enter KING and guard</p> - -<p> CRANMER. [Kneeling] And to your royal Grace and the<br/> - good Queen!<br/> - My noble partners and myself thus pray:<br/> - All comfort, joy, in this most gracious lady,<br/> - Heaven ever laid up to make parents happy,<br/> - May hourly fall upon ye!<br/> - KING. Thank you, good Lord Archbishop.<br/> - What is her name?<br/> - CRANMER. Elizabeth.<br/> - KING. Stand up, lord. [The KING kisses the child]<br/> - With this kiss take my blessing: God protect thee!<br/> - Into whose hand I give thy life.<br/> - CRANMER. Amen.<br/> - KING. My noble gossips, y'have been too prodigal;<br/> - I thank ye heartily. So shall this lady,<br/> - When she has so much English.<br/> - CRANMER. Let me speak, sir,<br/> - For heaven now bids me; and the words I utter<br/> - Let none think flattery, for they'll find 'em truth.<br/> - This royal infant-heaven still move about her!-<br/> - Though in her cradle, yet now promises<br/> - Upon this land a thousand blessings,<br/> - Which time shall bring to ripeness. She shall be-<br/> - But few now living can behold that goodness-<br/> - A pattern to all princes living with her,<br/> - And all that shall succeed. Saba was never<br/> - More covetous of wisdom and fair virtue<br/> - Than this pure soul shall be. All princely graces<br/> - That mould up such a mighty piece as this is,<br/> - With all the virtues that attend the good,<br/> - Shall still be doubled on her. Truth shall nurse her,<br/> - Holy and heavenly thoughts still counsel her;<br/> - She shall be lov'd and fear'd. Her own shall bless her:<br/> - Her foes shake like a field of beaten corn,<br/> - And hang their heads with sorrow. Good grows with her;<br/> - In her days every man shall eat in safety<br/> - Under his own vine what he plants, and sing<br/> - The merry songs of peace to all his neighbours.<br/> - God shall be truly known; and those about her<br/> - From her shall read the perfect ways of honour,<br/> - And by those claim their greatness, not by blood.<br/> - Nor shall this peace sleep with her; but as when<br/> - The bird of wonder dies, the maiden phoenix<br/> - Her ashes new create another heir<br/> - As great in admiration as herself,<br/> - So shall she leave her blessedness to one-<br/> - When heaven shall call her from this cloud of darkness-<br/> - Who from the sacred ashes of her honour<br/> - Shall star-like rise, as great in fame as she was,<br/> - And so stand fix'd. Peace, plenty, love, truth, terror,<br/> - That were the servants to this chosen infant,<br/> - Shall then be his, and like a vine grow to him;<br/> - Wherever the bright sun of heaven shall shine,<br/> - His honour and the greatness of his name<br/> - Shall be, and make new nations; he shall flourish,<br/> - And like a mountain cedar reach his branches<br/> - To all the plains about him; our children's children<br/> - Shall see this and bless heaven.<br/> - KING. Thou speakest wonders.<br/> - CRANMER. She shall be, to the happiness of England,<br/> - An aged princess; many days shall see her,<br/> - And yet no day without a deed to crown it.<br/> - Would I had known no more! But she must die-<br/> - She must, the saints must have her-yet a virgin;<br/> - A most unspotted lily shall she pass<br/> - To th' ground, and all the world shall mourn her.<br/> - KING. O Lord Archbishop,<br/> - Thou hast made me now a man; never before<br/> - This happy child did I get anything.<br/> - This oracle of comfort has so pleas'd me<br/> - That when I am in heaven I shall desire<br/> - To see what this child does, and praise my Maker.<br/> - I thank ye all. To you, my good Lord Mayor,<br/> - And you, good brethren, I am much beholding;<br/> - I have receiv'd much honour by your presence,<br/> - And ye shall find me thankful. Lead the way, lords;<br/> - Ye must all see the Queen, and she must thank ye,<br/> - She will be sick else. This day, no man think<br/> - Has business at his house; for all shall stay.<br/> - This little one shall make it holiday. Exeunt<br/> -</p> - -<h4>KING_HENRY_VIII|EPILOGUE - THE EPILOGUE.</h4> - -<p> 'Tis ten to one this play can never please<br/> - All that are here. Some come to take their ease<br/> - And sleep an act or two; but those, we fear,<br/> - W'have frighted with our trumpets; so, 'tis clear,<br/> - They'll say 'tis nought; others to hear the city<br/> - Abus'd extremely, and to cry 'That's witty!'<br/> - Which we have not done neither; that, I fear,<br/> - All the expected good w'are like to hear<br/> - For this play at this time is only in<br/> - The merciful construction of good women;<br/> - For such a one we show'd 'em. If they smile<br/> - And say 'twill do, I know within a while<br/> - All the best men are ours; for 'tis ill hap<br/> - If they hold when their ladies bid 'em clap.<br/> +<p class="drama"> +LOVELL.<br/> +The reformation of our travelled gallants<br/> +That fill the court with quarrels, talk, and tailors. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CHAMBERLAIN.<br/> +I’m glad ’tis there. Now I would pray our monsieurs<br/> +To think an English courtier may be wise<br/> +And never see the Louvre. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +LOVELL.<br/> +They must either,<br/> +For so run the conditions, leave those remnants<br/> +Of fool and feather that they got in France,<br/> +With all their honourable points of ignorance<br/> +Pertaining thereunto, as fights and fireworks,<br/> +Abusing better men than they can be<br/> +Out of a foreign wisdom, renouncing clean<br/> +The faith they have in tennis and tall stockings,<br/> +Short blistered breeches, and those types of travel,<br/> +And understand again like honest men,<br/> +Or pack to their old playfellows. There, I take it,<br/> +They may, <i>cum privilegio, oui</i> away<br/> +The lag end of their lewdness and be laughed at. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SANDYS.<br/> +’Tis time to give ’em physic, their diseases<br/> +Are grown so catching. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CHAMBERLAIN.<br/> +What a loss our ladies<br/> +Will have of these trim vanities! +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +LOVELL.<br/> +Ay, marry,<br/> +There will be woe indeed, lords. The sly whoresons<br/> +Have got a speeding trick to lay down ladies.<br/> +A French song and a fiddle has no fellow. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SANDYS.<br/> +The devil fiddle ’em! I am glad they are going,<br/> +For sure, there’s no converting of ’em. Now<br/> +An honest country lord, as I am, beaten<br/> +A long time out of play, may bring his plainsong<br/> +And have an hour of hearing, and, by ’r Lady,<br/> +Held current music too. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CHAMBERLAIN.<br/> +Well said, Lord Sandys.<br/> +Your colt’s tooth is not cast yet. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SANDYS.<br/> +No, my lord,<br/> +Nor shall not while I have a stump. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CHAMBERLAIN.<br/> +Sir Thomas,<br/> +Whither were you a-going? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +LOVELL.<br/> +To the Cardinal’s.<br/> +Your lordship is a guest too. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CHAMBERLAIN.<br/> +O, ’tis true.<br/> +This night he makes a supper, and a great one,<br/> +To many lords and ladies. There will be<br/> +The beauty of this kingdom, I’ll assure you. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +LOVELL.<br/> +That churchman bears a bounteous mind indeed,<br/> +A hand as fruitful as the land that feeds us.<br/> +His dews fall everywhere. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CHAMBERLAIN.<br/> +No doubt he’s noble;<br/> +He had a black mouth that said other of him. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SANDYS.<br/> +He may, my lord; has wherewithal. In him<br/> +Sparing would show a worse sin than ill doctrine.<br/> +Men of his way should be most liberal;<br/> +They are set here for examples. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CHAMBERLAIN.<br/> +True, they are so,<br/> +But few now give so great ones. My barge stays.<br/> +Your lordship shall along. Come, good Sir Thomas,<br/> +We shall be late else, which I would not be,<br/> +For I was spoke to, with Sir Henry Guildford,<br/> +This night to be comptrollers. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SANDYS.<br/> +I am your lordship’s. +</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>Exeunt.</i>]</p> + +<h3><a name="sceneI_15.4"></a><b>SCENE IV. A Hall in York Place.</b></h3> + +<p class="scenedesc">Hautboys. A small table under a state for the Cardinal, a +longer table for the guests. Then enter <span class="charname">Anne +Bullen</span> and divers other Ladies and Gentlemen as guests, at one door. +At another door enter <span class="charname">Sir Henry Guildford</span>.</p> + +<p class="drama"> +GUILDFORD.<br/> +Ladies, a general welcome from his Grace<br/> +Salutes ye all. This night he dedicates<br/> +To fair content and you. None here, he hopes,<br/> +In all this noble bevy has brought with her<br/> +One care abroad. He would have all as merry<br/> +As, first, good company, good wine, good welcome<br/> +Can make good people. +</p> + +<p class="scenedesc">Enter <span class="charname">Lord Chamberlain, Lord +Sandys</span> and <span class="charname">Sir Thomas Lovell</span>.</p> + +<p class="drama"> +O, my lord, you’re tardy.<br/> +The very thought of this fair company<br/> +Clapped wings to me. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CHAMBERLAIN.<br/> +You are young, Sir Harry Guildford. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SANDYS.<br/> +Sir Thomas Lovell, had the Cardinal<br/> +But half my lay thoughts in him, some of these<br/> +Should find a running banquet ere they rested,<br/> +I think would better please ’em. By my life,<br/> +They are a sweet society of fair ones. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +LOVELL.<br/> +O, that your lordship were but now confessor<br/> +To one or two of these! </p> +<p class="drama"> +SANDYS.<br/> +I would I were.<br/> +They should find easy penance. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +LOVELL.<br/> +Faith, how easy? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SANDYS.<br/> +As easy as a down bed would afford it. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CHAMBERLAIN.<br/> +Sweet ladies, will it please you sit? Sir Harry,<br/> +Place you that side; I’ll take the charge of this.<br/> +His Grace is ent’ring. Nay, you must not freeze;<br/> +Two women placed together makes cold weather.<br/> +My Lord Sandys, you are one will keep ’em waking.<br/> +Pray, sit between these ladies. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SANDYS.<br/> +By my faith,<br/> +And thank your lordship. By your leave, sweet ladies.<br/> +If I chance to talk a little wild, forgive me;<br/> +I had it from my father. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +ANNE.<br/> +Was he mad, sir? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SANDYS.<br/> +O, very mad, exceeding mad in love too;<br/> +But he would bite none. Just as I do now,<br/> +He would kiss you twenty with a breath. +</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>Kisses her.</i>]</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CHAMBERLAIN.<br/> +Well said, my lord.<br/> +So, now you’re fairly seated. gentlemen,<br/> +The penance lies on you if these fair ladies<br/> +Pass away frowning. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SANDYS.<br/> +For my little cure,<br/> +Let me alone. +</p> + +<p class="scenedesc">Hautboys. Enter <span class="charname">Cardinal Wolsey</span> +and takes his state.</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +You’re welcome, my fair guests. That noble lady<br/> +Or gentleman that is not freely merry<br/> +Is not my friend. This, to confirm my welcome;<br/> +And to you all, good health. +</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>Drinks.</i>]</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SANDYS.<br/> +Your Grace is noble.<br/> +Let me have such a bowl may hold my thanks<br/> +And save me so much talking. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +My Lord Sandys,<br/> +I am beholding to you. Cheer your neighbours.<br/> +Ladies, you are not merry. Gentlemen,<br/> +Whose fault is this? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SANDYS.<br/> +The red wine first must rise<br/> +In their fair cheeks, my lord; then we shall have ’em<br/> +Talk us to silence. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +ANNE.<br/> +You are a merry gamester,<br/> +My Lord Sandys. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SANDYS.<br/> +Yes, if I make my play.<br/> +Here’s to your ladyship; and pledge it, madam,<br/> +For ’tis to such a thing— +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +ANNE.<br/> +You cannot show me. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SANDYS.<br/> +I told your Grace they would talk anon. +</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>Drum and trumpet. Chambers discharged.</i>]</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +What’s that? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CHAMBERLAIN.<br/> +Look out there, some of ye. +</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>Exit <span class="charname">Servant</span>.</i>]</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +What warlike voice,<br/> +And to what end, is this? Nay, ladies, fear not.<br/> +By all the laws of war you’re privileged. +</p> + +<p class="scenedesc">Enter <span class="charname">Servant</span>.</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CHAMBERLAIN.<br/> +How now, what is’t? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SERVANT.<br/> +A noble troop of strangers,<br/> +For so they seem. They’ve left their barge and landed,<br/> +And hither make, as great ambassadors<br/> +From foreign princes. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +Good Lord Chamberlain,<br/> +Go, give ’em welcome—you can speak the French tongue—<br/> +And pray receive ’em nobly, and conduct ’em<br/> +Into our presence, where this heaven of beauty<br/> +Shall shine at full upon them. Some attend him. +</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>Exit <span class="charname">Chamberlain</span>, attended. +All rise, and tables removed.</i>]</p> + +<p class="drama"> +You have now a broken banquet, but we’ll mend it.<br/> +A good digestion to you all; and once more<br/> +I shower a welcome on ye. Welcome all! +</p> + +<p class="scenedesc">Hautboys. Enter <span class="charname">King</span> +and others as masquers, habited like shepherds, ushered by the <span +class="charname">Lord Chamberlain</span>. They pass directly before the <span +class="charname">Cardinal</span> and gracefully salute him.</p> + +<p class="drama"> +A noble company! What are their pleasures? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CHAMBERLAIN.<br/> +Because they speak no English, thus they prayed<br/> +To tell your Grace: that having heard by fame<br/> +Of this so noble and so fair assembly<br/> +This night to meet here, they could do no less,<br/> +Out of the great respect they bear to beauty,<br/> +But leave their flocks and, under your fair conduct,<br/> +Crave leave to view these ladies and entreat<br/> +An hour of revels with ’em. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +Say, Lord Chamberlain,<br/> +They have done my poor house grace; for which I pay ’em<br/> +A thousand thanks and pray ’em take their pleasures. +</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>The masquers choose ladies. The <span +class="charname">King</span> chooses <span class="charname">Anne +Bullen</span>.</i>]</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +The fairest hand I ever touched! O beauty,<br/> +Till now I never knew thee. +</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>Music. Dance.</i>]</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +My lord! +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CHAMBERLAIN.<br/> +Your Grace? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +Pray tell ’em thus much from me:<br/> +There should be one amongst ’em, by his person<br/> +More worthy this place than myself, to whom,<br/> +If I but knew him, with my love and duty<br/> +I would surrender it. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CHAMBERLAIN.<br/> +I will, my lord. +</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>Whispers with the Masquers.</i>]</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +What say they? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CHAMBERLAIN.<br/> +Such a one they all confess<br/> +There is indeed, which they would have your Grace<br/> +Find out, and he will take it. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +Let me see, then.<br/> +By all your good leaves, gentlemen; here I’ll make<br/> +My royal choice. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +[<i>Unmasking</i>.] Ye have found him, Cardinal.<br/> +You hold a fair assembly; you do well, lord.<br/> +You are a churchman, or I’ll tell you, Cardinal,<br/> +I should judge now unhappily. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +I am glad<br/> +Your Grace is grown so pleasant. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +My Lord Chamberlain,<br/> +Prithee come hither. What fair lady’s that? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CHAMBERLAIN.<br/> +An’t please your Grace, Sir Thomas Bullen’s daughter,<br/> +The Viscount Rochford, one of her Highness’ women. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +By heaven, she is a dainty one. Sweetheart,<br/> +I were unmannerly to take you out<br/> +And not to kiss you. A health, gentlemen!<br/> +Let it go round. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +Sir Thomas Lovell, is the banquet ready<br/> +I’ th’ privy chamber? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +LOVELL.<br/> +Yes, my lord. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +Your Grace,<br/> +I fear, with dancing is a little heated. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +I fear, too much. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +There’s fresher air, my lord,<br/> +In the next chamber. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +Lead in your ladies, every one. Sweet partner,<br/> +I must not yet forsake you. Let’s be merry,<br/> +Good my Lord Cardinal, I have half a dozen healths<br/> +To drink to these fair ladies, and a measure<br/> +To lead ’em once again, and then let’s dream<br/> +Who’s best in favour. Let the music knock it. +</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>Exeunt with trumpets.</i>]</p> + +</div><!--end chapter--> + +<div class="chapter"> + +<h2><a name="sceneII_15.1"></a><b>ACT II</b></h2> + +<h3><b>SCENE I. Westminster. A street.</b></h3> + +<p class="scenedesc">Enter two <span class="charname">Gentlemen</span> at +several doors.</p> + +<p class="drama"> +FIRST GENTLEMAN.<br/> +Whither away so fast? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SECOND GENTLEMAN.<br/> +O, God save ye.<br/> +Even to the Hall, to hear what shall become<br/> +Of the great Duke of Buckingham. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +FIRST GENTLEMAN.<br/> +I’ll save you<br/> +That labour, sir. All’s now done but the ceremony<br/> +Of bringing back the prisoner. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SECOND GENTLEMAN.<br/> +Were you there? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +FIRST GENTLEMAN.<br/> +Yes, indeed, was I. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SECOND GENTLEMAN.<br/> +Pray speak what has happened. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +FIRST GENTLEMAN.<br/> +You may guess quickly what. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SECOND GENTLEMAN.<br/> +Is he found guilty? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +FIRST GENTLEMAN.<br/> +Yes, truly is he, and condemned upon’t. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SECOND GENTLEMAN.<br/> +I am sorry for’t. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +FIRST GENTLEMAN.<br/> +So are a number more. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SECOND GENTLEMAN.<br/> +But pray, how passed it? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +FIRST GENTLEMAN.<br/> +I’ll tell you in a little. The great Duke<br/> +Came to the bar, where to his accusations<br/> +He pleaded still not guilty and alleged<br/> +Many sharp reasons to defeat the law.<br/> +The King’s attorney on the contrary<br/> +Urged on the examinations, proofs, confessions<br/> +Of divers witnesses, which the Duke desired<br/> +To have brought <i>viva voce</i> to his face;<br/> +At which appeared against him his surveyor,<br/> +Sir Gilbert Peck his chancellor, and John Car,<br/> +Confessor to him, with that devil monk,<br/> +Hopkins, that made this mischief. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SECOND GENTLEMAN.<br/> +That was he<br/> +That fed him with his prophecies? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +FIRST GENTLEMAN.<br/> +The same.<br/> +All these accused him strongly, which he fain<br/> +Would have flung from him, but, indeed he could not.<br/> +And so his peers, upon this evidence,<br/> +Have found him guilty of high treason. Much<br/> +He spoke, and learnedly, for life, but all<br/> +Was either pitied in him or forgotten. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SECOND GENTLEMAN.<br/> +After all this, how did he bear himself? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +FIRST GENTLEMAN.<br/> +When he was brought again to th’ bar to hear<br/> +His knell rung out, his judgement, he was stirred<br/> +With such an agony, he sweat extremely<br/> +And something spoke in choler, ill and hasty.<br/> +But he fell to himself again, and sweetly<br/> +In all the rest showed a most noble patience. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SECOND GENTLEMAN.<br/> +I do not think he fears death. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +FIRST GENTLEMAN.<br/> +Sure he does not;<br/> +He never was so womanish. The cause<br/> +He may a little grieve at. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SECOND GENTLEMAN.<br/> +Certainly<br/> +The Cardinal is the end of this. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +FIRST GENTLEMAN.<br/> +’Tis likely,<br/> +By all conjectures: first, Kildare’s attainder,<br/> +Then deputy of Ireland, who removed,<br/> +Earl Surrey was sent thither, and in haste too,<br/> +Lest he should help his father. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SECOND GENTLEMAN.<br/> +That trick of state<br/> +Was a deep envious one. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +FIRST GENTLEMAN.<br/> +At his return<br/> +No doubt he will requite it. This is noted,<br/> +And generally, whoever the King favours,<br/> +The Cardinal instantly will find employment,<br/> +And far enough from court too. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SECOND GENTLEMAN.<br/> +All the commons<br/> +Hate him perniciously and, o’ my conscience,<br/> +Wish him ten fathom deep. This duke as much<br/> +They love and dote on, call him bounteous Buckingham,<br/> +The mirror of all courtesy. +</p> + +<p class="scenedesc">Enter <span class="charname">Buckingham</span> from his +arraignment. Tipstaves before him, the axe with the edge towards him, Halberds +on each side, accompanied with <span class="charname">Sir Thomas Lovell, Sir +Nicholas Vaux, Sir William Sandys</span> and common people.</p> + +<p class="drama"> +FIRST GENTLEMAN.<br/> +Stay there, sir,<br/> +And see the noble ruined man you speak of. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SECOND GENTLEMAN.<br/> +Let’s stand close and behold him. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +BUCKINGHAM.<br/> +All good people,<br/> +You that thus far have come to pity me,<br/> +Hear what I say, and then go home and lose me.<br/> +I have this day received a traitor’s judgement,<br/> +And by that name must die; yet heaven bear witness,<br/> +And if I have a conscience, let it sink me,<br/> +Even as the axe falls, if I be not faithful!<br/> +The law I bear no malice for my death;<br/> +’T has done, upon the premises, but justice.<br/> +But those that sought it I could wish more Christians.<br/> +Be what they will, I heartily forgive ’em.<br/> +Yet let ’em look they glory not in mischief,<br/> +Nor build their evils on the graves of great men,<br/> +For then my guiltless blood must cry against ’em.<br/> +For further life in this world I ne’er hope,<br/> +Nor will I sue, although the King have mercies<br/> +More than I dare make faults. You few that loved me<br/> +And dare be bold to weep for Buckingham,<br/> +His noble friends and fellows, whom to leave<br/> +Is only bitter to him, only dying,<br/> +Go with me like good angels to my end,<br/> +And as the long divorce of steel falls on me,<br/> +Make of your prayers one sweet sacrifice,<br/> +And lift my soul to heaven. Lead on, i’ God’s name. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +LOVELL.<br/> +I do beseech your Grace, for charity,<br/> +If ever any malice in your heart<br/> +Were hid against me, now to forgive me frankly. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +BUCKINGHAM.<br/> +Sir Thomas Lovell, I as free forgive you<br/> +As I would be forgiven. I forgive all.<br/> +There cannot be those numberless offences<br/> +’Gainst me that I cannot take peace with. No black envy<br/> +Shall mark my grave. Commend me to his Grace,<br/> +And if he speak of Buckingham, pray tell him<br/> +You met him half in heaven. My vows and prayers<br/> +Yet are the King’s and, till my soul forsake,<br/> +Shall cry for blessings on him. May he live<br/> +Longer than I have time to tell his years;<br/> +Ever beloved and loving may his rule be;<br/> +And when old Time shall lead him to his end,<br/> +Goodness and he fill up one monument! +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +LOVELL.<br/> +To th’ waterside I must conduct your Grace,<br/> +Then give my charge up to Sir Nicholas Vaux,<br/> +Who undertakes you to your end. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +VAUX.<br/> +Prepare there!<br/> +The Duke is coming. See the barge be ready,<br/> +And fit it with such furniture as suits<br/> +The greatness of his person. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +BUCKINGHAM.<br/> +Nay, Sir Nicholas,<br/> +Let it alone. My state now will but mock me.<br/> +When I came hither, I was Lord High Constable<br/> +And Duke of Buckingham; now, poor Edward Bohun.<br/> +Yet I am richer than my base accusers,<br/> +That never knew what truth meant. I now seal it,<br/> +And with that blood will make ’em one day groan for’t.<br/> +My noble father, Henry of Buckingham,<br/> +Who first raised head against usurping Richard,<br/> +Flying for succour to his servant Banister,<br/> +Being distressed, was by that wretch betrayed,<br/> +And, without trial, fell. God’s peace be with him.<br/> +Henry the Seventh succeeding, truly pitying<br/> +My father’s loss, like a most royal prince,<br/> +Restored me to my honours and out of ruins<br/> +Made my name once more noble. Now his son,<br/> +Henry the Eighth, life, honour, name, and all<br/> +That made me happy at one stroke has taken<br/> +For ever from the world. I had my trial,<br/> +And must needs say a noble one, which makes me<br/> +A little happier than my wretched father.<br/> +Yet thus far we are one in fortunes: both<br/> +Fell by our servants, by those men we loved most—<br/> +A most unnatural and faithless service.<br/> +Heaven has an end in all; yet, you that hear me,<br/> +This from a dying man receive as certain:<br/> +Where you are liberal of your loves and counsels<br/> +Be sure you be not loose; for those you make friends<br/> +And give your hearts to, when they once perceive<br/> +The least rub in your fortunes, fall away<br/> +Like water from ye, never found again<br/> +But where they mean to sink ye. All good people,<br/> +Pray for me. I must now forsake ye. The last hour<br/> +Of my long weary life is come upon me.<br/> +Farewell. And when you would say something that is sad,<br/> +Speak how I fell. I have done; and God forgive me. +</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>Exeunt <span class="charname">Duke</span> and train.</i>]</p> + +<p class="drama"> +FIRST GENTLEMAN.<br/> +O, this is full of pity. Sir, it calls,<br/> +I fear, too many curses on their heads<br/> +That were the authors. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SECOND GENTLEMAN.<br/> +If the Duke be guiltless,<br/> +’Tis full of woe. Yet I can give you inkling<br/> +Of an ensuing evil, if it fall,<br/> +Greater than this. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +FIRST GENTLEMAN.<br/> +Good angels keep it from us!<br/> +What may it be? You do not doubt my faith, sir? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SECOND GENTLEMAN.<br/> +This secret is so weighty, ’twill require<br/> +A strong faith to conceal it. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +FIRST GENTLEMAN.<br/> +Let me have it.<br/> +I do not talk much. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SECOND GENTLEMAN.<br/> +I am confident;<br/> +You shall, sir. Did you not of late days hear<br/> +A buzzing of a separation<br/> +Between the King and Katherine? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +FIRST GENTLEMAN.<br/> +Yes, but it held not;<br/> +For when the King once heard it, out of anger<br/> +He sent command to the Lord Mayor straight<br/> +To stop the rumour and allay those tongues<br/> +That durst disperse it. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SECOND GENTLEMAN.<br/> +But that slander, sir,<br/> +Is found a truth now, for it grows again<br/> +Fresher than e’er it was, and held for certain<br/> +The King will venture at it. Either the Cardinal,<br/> +Or some about him near, have, out of malice<br/> +To the good Queen, possessed him with a scruple<br/> +That will undo her. To confirm this too,<br/> +Cardinal Campeius is arrived, and lately,<br/> +As all think, for this business. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +FIRST GENTLEMAN.<br/> +’Tis the Cardinal;<br/> +And merely to revenge him on the Emperor<br/> +For not bestowing on him at his asking,<br/> +The archbishopric of Toledo this is purposed. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SECOND GENTLEMAN.<br/> +I think you have hit the mark. But is’t not cruel<br/> +That she should feel the smart of this? The Cardinal<br/> +Will have his will, and she must fall. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +FIRST GENTLEMAN.<br/> +’Tis woeful.<br/> +We are too open here to argue this.<br/> +Let’s think in private more. +</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>Exeunt.</i>]</p> + +<h3><a name="sceneII_15.2"></a><b>SCENE II. An ante-chamber in the palace.</b></h3> + +<p class="scenedesc">Enter <span class="charname">Lord Chamberlain</span>, +reading this letter.</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CHAMBERLAIN.<br/> +<i>My lord, the horses your lordship sent for, with all the care had I saw well +chosen, ridden, and furnished. They were young and handsome, and of the best +breed in the north. When they were ready to set out for London, a man of my +Lord Cardinal’s, by commission and main power, took ’em from me, with this +reason: his master would be served before a subject, if not before the King; +which stopped our mouths, sir.</i><br/> +I fear he will indeed. Well, let him have them.<br/> +He will have all, I think. +</p> + +<p class="scenedesc">Enter to the <span class="charname">Lord Chamberlain, the +Dukes of Norfolk</span> and <span class="charname">Suffolk</span>.</p> + +<p class="drama"> +NORFOLK.<br/> +Well met, my Lord Chamberlain. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CHAMBERLAIN.<br/> +Good day to both your Graces. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SUFFOLK.<br/> +How is the King employed? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CHAMBERLAIN.<br/> +I left him private,<br/> +Full of sad thoughts and troubles. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +NORFOLK.<br/> +What’s the cause? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CHAMBERLAIN.<br/> +It seems the marriage with his brother’s wife<br/> +Has crept too near his conscience. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SUFFOLK.<br/> +No, his conscience<br/> +Has crept too near another lady. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +NORFOLK.<br/> +’Tis so.<br/> +This is the Cardinal’s doing, the king-cardinal.<br/> +That blind priest, like the eldest son of Fortune,<br/> +Turns what he list. The King will know him one day. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SUFFOLK.<br/> +Pray God he do! He’ll never know himself else. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +NORFOLK.<br/> +How holily he works in all his business,<br/> +And with what zeal! For, now he has cracked the league<br/> +Between us and the Emperor, the Queen’s great nephew,<br/> +He dives into the King’s soul and there scatters<br/> +Dangers, doubts, wringing of the conscience,<br/> +Fears and despairs—and all these for his marriage.<br/> +And out of all these to restore the King,<br/> +He counsels a divorce, a loss of her<br/> +That like a jewel has hung twenty years<br/> +About his neck, yet never lost her lustre;<br/> +Of her that loves him with that excellence<br/> +That angels love good men with; even of her<br/> +That, when the greatest stroke of fortune falls,<br/> +Will bless the King. And is not this course pious? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CHAMBERLAIN.<br/> +Heaven keep me from such counsel! ’Tis most true:<br/> +These news are everywhere, every tongue speaks ’em,<br/> +And every true heart weeps for’t. All that dare<br/> +Look into these affairs see this main end,<br/> +The French king’s sister. Heaven will one day open<br/> +The King’s eyes, that so long have slept upon<br/> +This bold bad man. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SUFFOLK.<br/> +And free us from his slavery. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +NORFOLK.<br/> +We had need pray,<br/> +And heartily, for our deliverance,<br/> +Or this imperious man will work us all<br/> +From princes into pages. All men’s honours<br/> +Lie like one lump before him, to be fashioned<br/> +Into what pitch he please. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SUFFOLK.<br/> +For me, my lords,<br/> +I love him not, nor fear him; there’s my creed.<br/> +As I am made without him, so I’ll stand,<br/> +If the King please. His curses and his blessings<br/> +Touch me alike, they’re breath I not believe in.<br/> +I knew him, and I know him; so I leave him<br/> +To him that made him proud, the Pope. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +NORFOLK.<br/> +Let’s in,<br/> +And with some other business put the King<br/> +From these sad thoughts that work too much upon him.<br/> +My lord, you’ll bear us company? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CHAMBERLAIN.<br/> +Excuse me;<br/> +The King has sent me otherwhere. Besides,<br/> +You’ll find a most unfit time to disturb him.<br/> +Health to your lordships. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +NORFOLK.<br/> +Thanks, my good Lord Chamberlain. +</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>Exit <span class="charname">Lord Chamberlain</span>, +and the <span class="charname">King</span> draws the curtain and sits reading +pensively.</i>]</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SUFFOLK.<br/> +How sad he looks! Sure, he is much afflicted. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +Who’s there? Ha? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +NORFOLK.<br/> +Pray God he be not angry. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +Who’s there, I say? How dare you thrust yourselves<br/> +Into my private meditations?<br/> +Who am I? Ha? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +NORFOLK.<br/> +A gracious king that pardons all offences<br/> +Malice ne’er meant. Our breach of duty this way<br/> +Is business of estate, in which we come<br/> +To know your royal pleasure. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +Ye are too bold.<br/> +Go to; I’ll make ye know your times of business.<br/> +Is this an hour for temporal affairs, ha? +</p> + +<p class="scenedesc">Enter <span class="charname">Wolsey</span> and +<span class="charname">Campeius</span> with a commission.</p> + +<p class="drama"> +Who’s there? My good Lord Cardinal? O my Wolsey,<br/> +The quiet of my wounded conscience,<br/> +Thou art a cure fit for a king. [<i>To Campeius</i>.] You’re welcome,<br/> +Most learned reverend sir, into our kingdom;<br/> +Use us and it. [<i>To Wolsey</i>.] My good lord, have great care<br/> +I be not found a talker. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +Sir, you cannot.<br/> +I would your Grace would give us but an hour<br/> +Of private conference. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +[<i>To Norfolk and Suffolk</i>.] We are busy. Go. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +NORFOLK.<br/> +[A<i>side to Suffolk</i>.] This priest has no pride in him? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SUFFOLK.<br/> +[<i>Aside to Norfolk</i>.] Not to speak of.<br/> +I would not be so sick, though, for his place.<br/> +But this cannot continue. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +NORFOLK.<br/> +[<i>Aside to Suffolk</i>.] If it do,<br/> +I’ll venture one have-at-him. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SUFFOLK.<br/> +[<i>Aside to Norfolk</i>.] I another. +</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>Exeunt <span class="charname">Norfolk</span> and +<span class="charname">Suffolk</span>.</i>]</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +Your Grace has given a precedent of wisdom<br/> +Above all princes in committing freely<br/> +Your scruple to the voice of Christendom.<br/> +Who can be angry now? What envy reach you?<br/> +The Spaniard, tied by blood and favour to her,<br/> +Must now confess, if they have any goodness,<br/> +The trial just and noble. All the clerks—<br/> +I mean the learned ones in Christian kingdoms—<br/> +Have their free voices. Rome, the nurse of judgement,<br/> +Invited by your noble self, hath sent<br/> +One general tongue unto us, this good man,<br/> +This just and learned priest, Cardinal Campeius,<br/> +Whom once more I present unto your Highness. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +And once more in mine arms I bid him welcome,<br/> +And thank the holy conclave for their loves.<br/> +They have sent me such a man I would have wished for. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CAMPEIUS.<br/> +Your Grace must needs deserve all strangers’ loves,<br/> +You are so noble. To your Highness’ hand<br/> +I tender my commission, by whose virtue,<br/> +The court of Rome commanding, you, my Lord<br/> +Cardinal of York, are joined with me their servant<br/> +In the unpartial judging of this business. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +Two equal men. The Queen shall be acquainted<br/> +Forthwith for what you come. Where’s Gardiner? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +I know your Majesty has always loved her<br/> +So dear in heart not to deny her that<br/> +A woman of less place might ask by law:<br/> +Scholars allowed freely to argue for her. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +Ay, and the best she shall have, and my favour<br/> +To him that does best. God forbid else. Cardinal,<br/> +Prithee call Gardiner to me, my new secretary.<br/> +I find him a fit fellow. +</p> + +<p class="scenedesc">Enter <span class="charname">Gardiner</span>.</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +[<i>Aside to Gardiner</i>.]<br/> +Give me your hand. Much joy and favour to you;<br/> +You are the King’s now. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +GARDINER.<br/> +[<i>Aside to Wolsey</i>.] But to be commanded<br/> +For ever by your Grace, whose hand has raised me. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +Come hither, Gardiner. +</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>The <span class="charname">King</span> and +<span class="charname">Gardiner</span> walk and whisper.</i>]</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CAMPEIUS.<br/> +My lord of York, was not one Doctor Pace<br/> +In this man’s place before him? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +Yes, he was. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CAMPEIUS.<br/> +Was he not held a learned man? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +Yes, surely. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CAMPEIUS.<br/> +Believe me, there’s an ill opinion spread, then<br/> +Even of yourself, Lord Cardinal. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +How? Of me? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CAMPEIUS.<br/> +They will not stick to say you envied him<br/> +And fearing he would rise—he was so virtuous—<br/> +Kept him a foreign man still, which so grieved him<br/> +That he ran mad and died. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +Heav’n’s peace be with him!<br/> +That’s Christian care enough. For living murmurers<br/> +There’s places of rebuke. He was a fool,<br/> +For he would needs be virtuous. That good fellow,<br/> +If I command him, follows my appointment.<br/> +I will have none so near else. Learn this, brother:<br/> +We live not to be griped by meaner persons. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +Deliver this with modesty to th’ Queen. +</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>Exit <span class="charname">Gardiner</span>.</i>]</p> + +<p class="drama"> +The most convenient place that I can think of<br/> +For such receipt of learning is Blackfriars.<br/> +There ye shall meet about this weighty business.<br/> +My Wolsey, see it furnished. O, my lord,<br/> +Would it not grieve an able man to leave<br/> +So sweet a bedfellow? But, conscience, conscience!<br/> +O, ’tis a tender place, and I must leave her. +</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>Exeunt.</i>]</p> + +<h3><a name="sceneII_15.3"></a><b>SCENE III. An ante-chamber of the Queen’s apartments.</b></h3> + +<p class="scenedesc">Enter <span class="charname">Anne Bullen</span> and an +<span class="charname">Old Lady</span>.</p> + +<p class="drama"> +ANNE.<br/> +Not for that neither. Here’s the pang that pinches:<br/> +His Highness having lived so long with her, and she<br/> +So good a lady that no tongue could ever<br/> +Pronounce dishonour of her—by my life,<br/> +She never knew harm-doing—O, now, after<br/> +So many courses of the sun enthroned,<br/> +Still growing in a majesty and pomp, the which<br/> +To leave a thousandfold more bitter than<br/> +’Tis sweet at first t’ acquire—after this process,<br/> +To give her the avaunt, it is a pity<br/> +Would move a monster. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +OLD LADY.<br/> +Hearts of most hard temper<br/> +Melt and lament for her. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +ANNE.<br/> +O, God’s will! Much better<br/> +She ne’er had known pomp; though’t be temporal,<br/> +Yet if that quarrel, Fortune, do divorce<br/> +It from the bearer, ’tis a sufferance panging<br/> +As soul and body’s severing. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +OLD LADY.<br/> +Alas, poor lady,<br/> +She’s a stranger now again. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +ANNE.<br/> +So much the more<br/> +Must pity drop upon her. Verily,<br/> +I swear, ’tis better to be lowly born<br/> +And range with humble livers in content<br/> +Than to be perked up in a glist’ring grief,<br/> +And wear a golden sorrow. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +OLD LADY.<br/> +Our content<br/> +Is our best having. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +ANNE.<br/> +By my troth and maidenhead,<br/> +I would not be a queen. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +OLD LADY.<br/> +Beshrew me, I would,<br/> +And venture maidenhead for’t; and so would you,<br/> +For all this spice of your hypocrisy.<br/> +You, that have so fair parts of woman on you,<br/> +Have too a woman’s heart, which ever yet<br/> +Affected eminence, wealth, sovereignty;<br/> +Which, to say sooth, are blessings; and which gifts,<br/> +Saving your mincing, the capacity<br/> +Of your soft cheveril conscience would receive,<br/> +If you might please to stretch it. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +ANNE.<br/> +Nay, good troth. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +OLD LADY.<br/> +Yes, troth and troth. You would not be a queen? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +ANNE.<br/> +No, not for all the riches under heaven. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +OLD LADY.<br/> +’Tis strange. A threepence bowed would hire me,<br/> +Old as I am, to queen it. But I pray you,<br/> +What think you of a duchess? Have you limbs<br/> +To bear that load of title? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +ANNE.<br/> +No, in truth. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +OLD LADY.<br/> +Then you are weakly made. Pluck off a little.<br/> +I would not be a young count in your way<br/> +For more than blushing comes to. If your back<br/> +Cannot vouchsafe this burden, ’tis too weak<br/> +Ever to get a boy. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +ANNE.<br/> +How you do talk!<br/> +I swear again I would not be a queen<br/> +For all the world. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +OLD LADY.<br/> +In faith, for little England<br/> +You’d venture an emballing. I myself<br/> +Would for Caernarfonshire, although there longed<br/> +No more to th’ crown but that. Lo, who comes here? +</p> + +<p class="scenedesc">Enter <span class="charname">Lord Chamberlain</span>.</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CHAMBERLAIN.<br/> +Good morrow, ladies. What were’t worth to know<br/> +The secret of your conference? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +ANNE.<br/> +My good lord,<br/> +Not your demand; it values not your asking.<br/> +Our mistress’ sorrows we were pitying. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CHAMBERLAIN.<br/> +It was a gentle business, and becoming<br/> +The action of good women. There is hope<br/> +All will be well. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +ANNE.<br/> +Now, I pray God, amen! +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CHAMBERLAIN.<br/> +You bear a gentle mind, and heavenly blessings<br/> +Follow such creatures. That you may, fair lady,<br/> +Perceive I speak sincerely, and high note’s<br/> +Ta’en of your many virtues, the King’s Majesty<br/> +Commends his good opinion of you, and<br/> +Does purpose honour to you no less flowing<br/> +Than Marchioness of Pembroke, to which title<br/> +A thousand pound a year annual support<br/> +Out of his grace he adds. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +ANNE.<br/> +I do not know<br/> +What kind of my obedience I should tender.<br/> +More than my all is nothing; nor my prayers<br/> +Are not words duly hallowed, nor my wishes<br/> +More worth than empty vanities; yet prayers and wishes<br/> +Are all I can return. Beseech your lordship,<br/> +Vouchsafe to speak my thanks and my obedience,<br/> +As from a blushing handmaid, to his Highness,<br/> +Whose health and royalty I pray for. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CHAMBERLAIN.<br/> +Lady,<br/> +I shall not fail t’ approve the fair conceit<br/> +The King hath of you. [<i>Aside</i>.] I have perused her well.<br/> +Beauty and honour in her are so mingled<br/> +That they have caught the King; and who knows yet<br/> +But from this lady may proceed a gem<br/> +To lighten all this isle? I’ll to the King,<br/> +And say I spoke with you. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +ANNE.<br/> +My honoured lord. +</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>Exit <span class="charname">Lord Chamberlain</span>.</i>]</p> + +<p class="drama"> +OLD LADY.<br/> +Why, this it is: see, see!<br/> +I have been begging sixteen years in court,<br/> +Am yet a courtier beggarly, nor could<br/> +Come pat betwixt too early and too late<br/> +For any suit of pounds; and you, O fate!<br/> +A very fresh fish here—fie, fie, fie upon<br/> +This compelled fortune!—have your mouth filled up<br/> +Before you open it. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +ANNE.<br/> +This is strange to me. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +OLD LADY.<br/> +How tastes it? Is it bitter? Forty pence, no.<br/> +There was a lady once—’tis an old story—<br/> +That would not be a queen, that would she not,<br/> +For all the mud in Egypt. Have you heard it? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +ANNE.<br/> +Come, you are pleasant. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +OLD LADY.<br/> +With your theme, I could<br/> +O’ermount the lark. The Marchioness of Pembroke?<br/> +A thousand pounds a year for pure respect?<br/> +No other obligation? By my life,<br/> +That promises more thousands; honour’s train<br/> +Is longer than his foreskirt. By this time<br/> +I know your back will bear a duchess. Say,<br/> +Are you not stronger than you were? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +ANNE.<br/> +Good lady,<br/> +Make yourself mirth with your particular fancy,<br/> +And leave me out on’t. Would I had no being<br/> +If this salute my blood a jot. It faints me<br/> +To think what follows.<br/> +The Queen is comfortless, and we forgetful<br/> +In our long absence. Pray do not deliver<br/> +What here you’ve heard to her. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +OLD LADY.<br/> +What do you think me? +</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>Exeunt.</i>]</p> + +<h3><a name="sceneII_15.4"></a><b>SCENE IV. A hall in Blackfriars.</b></h3> + +<p class="scenedesc">Trumpets, sennet, and cornets. Enter two <span +class="charname">Vergers</span>, with short silver wands; next them, two <span +class="charname">Scribes</span>, in the habit of doctors; after them, the <span +class="charname">Archbishop of Canterbury</span> alone; after him, the <span +class="charname">Bishops of Lincoln, Ely, Rochester</span>, and <span +class="charname">Saint Asaph</span>; next them, with some small distance, +follows a <span class="charname">Gentleman</span> bearing the purse with the +great seal, and a cardinal’s hat; then two <span +class="charname">Priests</span>, bearing each a silver cross; then a <span +class="charname">Gentleman Usher</span> bare-headed, accompanied with a <span +class="charname">Sergeant-at-arms</span> bearing a silver mace; then two +Gentlemen, bearing two great silver pillars; after them, side by side, the two +<span class="charname">Cardinals</span>; two <span +class="charname">Noblemen</span> with the sword and mace. The <span +class="charname">King</span> takes place under the cloth of state. The two +Cardinals sit under him as judges. The <span class="charname">Queen</span> +takes place some distance from the King. The Bishops place themselves on each +side the court, in manner of consistory; below them the <span +class="charname">Scribes</span>. The Lords sit next the Bishops. The rest of +the Attendants stand in convenient order about the stage.</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +Whilst our commission from Rome is read,<br/> +Let silence be commanded. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +What’s the need?<br/> +It hath already publicly been read,<br/> +And on all sides th’ authority allowed;<br/> +You may then spare that time. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +Be’t so. Proceed. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SCRIBE.<br/> +Say, “Henry King of England, come into the court.” +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CRIER.<br/> +Henry King of England, come into the court. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +Here. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SCRIBE.<br/> +Say, “Katherine Queen of England, come into the court.” +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CRIER.<br/> +Katherine Queen of England, come into the court. +</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>The <span class="charname">Queen</span> makes no answer, +rises out of her chair, goes about the court, comes to the <span +class="charname">King</span>, and kneels at his feet; then speaks.</i>]</p> + +<p class="drama"> +QUEEN KATHERINE.<br/> +Sir, I desire you do me right and justice,<br/> +And to bestow your pity on me; for<br/> +I am a most poor woman and a stranger,<br/> +Born out of your dominions, having here<br/> +No judge indifferent nor no more assurance<br/> +Of equal friendship and proceeding. Alas, sir,<br/> +In what have I offended you? What cause<br/> +Hath my behaviour given to your displeasure<br/> +That thus you should proceed to put me off<br/> +And take your good grace from me? Heaven witness<br/> +I have been to you a true and humble wife,<br/> +At all times to your will conformable,<br/> +Ever in fear to kindle your dislike,<br/> +Yea, subject to your countenance, glad or sorry<br/> +As I saw it inclined. When was the hour<br/> +I ever contradicted your desire,<br/> +Or made it not mine too? Or which of your friends<br/> +Have I not strove to love, although I knew<br/> +He were mine enemy? What friend of mine<br/> +That had to him derived your anger did I<br/> +Continue in my liking? Nay, gave notice<br/> +He was from thence discharged? Sir, call to mind<br/> +That I have been your wife in this obedience<br/> +Upward of twenty years, and have been blessed<br/> +With many children by you. If, in the course<br/> +And process of this time, you can report,<br/> +And prove it too, against mine honour aught,<br/> +My bond to wedlock, or my love and duty<br/> +Against your sacred person, in God’s name,<br/> +Turn me away and let the foul’st contempt<br/> +Shut door upon me, and so give me up<br/> +To the sharp’st kind of justice. Please you, sir,<br/> +The King your father was reputed for<br/> +A prince most prudent, of an excellent<br/> +And unmatched wit and judgement. Ferdinand,<br/> +My father, King of Spain, was reckoned one<br/> +The wisest prince that there had reigned by many<br/> +A year before. It is not to be questioned<br/> +That they had gathered a wise council to them<br/> +Of every realm, that did debate this business,<br/> +Who deemed our marriage lawful. Wherefore I humbly<br/> +Beseech you, sir, to spare me till I may<br/> +Be by my friends in Spain advised, whose counsel<br/> +I will implore. If not, i’ th’ name of God,<br/> +Your pleasure be fulfilled. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +You have here, lady,<br/> +And of your choice, these reverend fathers, men<br/> +Of singular integrity and learning,<br/> +Yea, the elect o’ th’ land, who are assembled<br/> +To plead your cause. It shall be therefore bootless<br/> +That longer you desire the court, as well<br/> +For your own quiet as to rectify<br/> +What is unsettled in the King. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CAMPEIUS.<br/> +His Grace<br/> +Hath spoken well and justly. Therefore, madam,<br/> +It’s fit this royal session do proceed,<br/> +And that without delay their arguments<br/> +Be now produced and heard. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +QUEEN KATHERINE.<br/> +Lord Cardinal,<br/> +To you I speak. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +Your pleasure, madam. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +QUEEN KATHERINE.<br/> +Sir,<br/> +I am about to weep; but, thinking that<br/> +We are a queen, or long have dreamed so, certain<br/> +The daughter of a king, my drops of tears<br/> +I’ll turn to sparks of fire. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +Be patient yet. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +QUEEN KATHERINE.<br/> +I will, when you are humble; nay, before,<br/> +Or God will punish me. I do believe,<br/> +Induced by potent circumstances, that<br/> +You are mine enemy, and make my challenge<br/> +You shall not be my judge; for it is you<br/> +Have blown this coal betwixt my lord and me,<br/> +Which God’s dew quench! Therefore I say again,<br/> +I utterly abhor, yea, from my soul<br/> +Refuse you for my judge, whom, yet once more,<br/> +I hold my most malicious foe and think not<br/> +At all a friend to truth. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +I do profess<br/> +You speak not like yourself, who ever yet<br/> +Have stood to charity and displayed th’ effects<br/> +Of disposition gentle and of wisdom<br/> +O’ertopping woman’s power. Madam, you do me wrong.<br/> +I have no spleen against you, nor injustice<br/> +For you or any. How far I have proceeded,<br/> +Or how far further shall, is warranted<br/> +By a commission from the Consistory,<br/> +Yea, the whole Consistory of Rome. You charge me<br/> +That I have “blown this coal”. I do deny it.<br/> +The King is present. If it be known to him<br/> +That I gainsay my deed, how may he wound,<br/> +And worthily, my falsehood, yea, as much<br/> +As you have done my truth. If he know<br/> +That I am free of your report, he knows<br/> +I am not of your wrong. Therefore in him<br/> +It lies to cure me, and the cure is to<br/> +Remove these thoughts from you, the which before<br/> +His Highness shall speak in, I do beseech<br/> +You, gracious madam, to unthink your speaking<br/> +And to say so no more. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +QUEEN KATHERINE.<br/> +My lord, my lord,<br/> +I am a simple woman, much too weak<br/> +T’ oppose your cunning. You’re meek and humble-mouthed;<br/> +You sign your place and calling, in full seeming,<br/> +With meekness and humility; but your heart<br/> +Is crammed with arrogancy, spleen, and pride.<br/> +You have, by fortune and his Highness’ favours,<br/> +Gone slightly o’er low steps, and now are mounted<br/> +Where powers are your retainers, and your words,<br/> +Domestics to you, serve your will as ’t please<br/> +Yourself pronounce their office. I must tell you,<br/> +You tender more your person’s honour than<br/> +Your high profession spiritual; that again<br/> +I do refuse you for my judge; and here,<br/> +Before you all, appeal unto the Pope,<br/> +To bring my whole cause ’fore his Holiness,<br/> +And to be judged by him. +</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>She curtsies to the <span class="charname">King</span> +and offers to depart.</i>]</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CAMPEIUS.<br/> +The Queen is obstinate,<br/> +Stubborn to justice, apt to accuse it, and<br/> +Disdainful to be tried by’t. ’Tis not well.<br/> +She’s going away. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +Call her again. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CRIER.<br/> +Katherine, Queen of England, come into the court. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +GENTLEMAN USHER.<br/> +Madam, you are called back. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +QUEEN KATHERINE.<br/> +What need you note it? Pray you keep your way.<br/> +When you are called, return. Now, the Lord help!<br/> +They vex me past my patience. Pray you, pass on.<br/> +I will not tarry; no, nor ever more<br/> +Upon this business my appearance make<br/> +In any of their courts. +</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>Exeunt <span class="charname">Queen</span> and her +Attendants.</i>]</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +Go thy ways, Kate.<br/> +That man i’ th’ world who shall report he has<br/> +A better wife, let him in naught be trusted,<br/> +For speaking false in that. Thou art, alone—<br/> +If thy rare qualities, sweet gentleness,<br/> +Thy meekness saint-like, wife-like government,<br/> +Obeying in commanding, and thy parts<br/> +Sovereign and pious else, could speak thee out—<br/> +The queen of earthly queens. She’s noble born,<br/> +And like her true nobility she has<br/> +Carried herself towards me. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +Most gracious sir,<br/> +In humblest manner I require your Highness<br/> +That it shall please you to declare, in hearing<br/> +Of all these ears—for where I am robbed and bound,<br/> +There must I be unloosed, although not there<br/> +At once and fully satisfied—whether ever I<br/> +Did broach this business to your Highness, or<br/> +Laid any scruple in your way which might<br/> +Induce you to the question on’t? or ever<br/> +Have to you, but with thanks to God for such<br/> +A royal lady, spake one the least word that might<br/> +Be to the prejudice of her present state,<br/> +Or touch of her good person? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +My Lord Cardinal,<br/> +I do excuse you; yea, upon mine honour,<br/> +I free you from’t. You are not to be taught<br/> +That you have many enemies that know not<br/> +Why they are so, but, like to village curs,<br/> +Bark when their fellows do. By some of these<br/> +The Queen is put in anger. You’re excused.<br/> +But will you be more justified? You ever<br/> +Have wished the sleeping of this business, never desired<br/> +It to be stirred, but oft have hindered, oft,<br/> +The passages made toward it. On my honour,<br/> +I speak my good Lord Cardinal to this point<br/> +And thus far clear him. Now, what moved me to’t,<br/> +I will be bold with time and your attention.<br/> +Then mark th’ inducement. Thus it came; give heed to’t:<br/> +My conscience first received a tenderness,<br/> +Scruple, and prick on certain speeches uttered<br/> +By th’ Bishop of Bayonne, then French ambassador,<br/> +Who had been hither sent on the debating<br/> +A marriage ’twixt the Duke of Orleans and<br/> +Our daughter Mary. I’ th’ progress of this business,<br/> +Ere a determinate resolution, he,<br/> +I mean the Bishop, did require a respite,<br/> +Wherein he might the King his lord advertise<br/> +Whether our daughter were legitimate,<br/> +Respecting this our marriage with the dowager,<br/> +Sometimes our brother’s wife. This respite shook<br/> +The bosom of my conscience, entered me,<br/> +Yea, with a splitting power, and made to tremble<br/> +The region of my breast; which forced such way<br/> +That many mazed considerings did throng<br/> +And pressed in with this caution. First, methought<br/> +I stood not in the smile of heaven, who had<br/> +Commanded nature that my lady’s womb,<br/> +If it conceived a male child by me, should<br/> +Do no more offices of life to’t than<br/> +The grave does to th’ dead; for her male issue<br/> +Or died where they were made, or shortly after<br/> +This world had aired them. Hence I took a thought<br/> +This was a judgement on me, that my kingdom,<br/> +Well worthy the best heir o’ th’ world, should not<br/> +Be gladded in’t by me. Then follows that<br/> +I weighed the danger which my realms stood in<br/> +By this my issue’s fail, and that gave to me<br/> +Many a groaning throe. Thus hulling in<br/> +The wild sea of my conscience, I did steer<br/> +Toward this remedy whereupon we are<br/> +Now present here together. That’s to say,<br/> +I meant to rectify my conscience, which<br/> +I then did feel full sick, and yet not well,<br/> +By all the reverend fathers of the land<br/> +And doctors learned. First I began in private<br/> +With you, my Lord of Lincoln. You remember<br/> +How under my oppression I did reek<br/> +When I first moved you. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +LINCOLN.<br/> +Very well, my liege. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +I have spoke long. Be pleased yourself to say<br/> +How far you satisfied me. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +LINCOLN.<br/> +So please your Highness,<br/> +The question did at first so stagger me,<br/> +Bearing a state of mighty moment in’t<br/> +And consequence of dread, that I committed<br/> +The daring’st counsel which I had to doubt<br/> +And did entreat your Highness to this course<br/> +Which you are running here. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +I then moved you,<br/> +My Lord of Canterbury, and got your leave<br/> +To make this present summons. Unsolicited<br/> +I left no reverend person in this court,<br/> +But by particular consent proceeded<br/> +Under your hands and seals. Therefore go on,<br/> +For no dislike i’ th’ world against the person<br/> +Of the good queen, but the sharp thorny points<br/> +Of my alleged reasons, drives this forward.<br/> +Prove but our marriage lawful, by my life<br/> +And kingly dignity, we are contented<br/> +To wear our mortal state to come with her,<br/> +Katherine, our Queen, before the primest creature<br/> +That’s paragoned o’ th’ world. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CAMPEIUS.<br/> +So please your Highness,<br/> +The Queen being absent, ’tis a needful fitness<br/> +That we adjourn this court till further day.<br/> +Meanwhile must be an earnest motion<br/> +Made to the Queen to call back her appeal<br/> +She intends unto his Holiness. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +[<i>Aside</i>.] I may perceive<br/> +These cardinals trifle with me. I abhor<br/> +This dilatory sloth and tricks of Rome.<br/> +My learned and well-beloved servant, Cranmer,<br/> +Prithee return. With thy approach, I know,<br/> +My comfort comes along.—Break up the court!<br/> +I say, set on. +</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>Exeunt in manner as they entered.</i>]</p> + +</div><!--end chapter--> + +<div class="chapter"> + +<h2><a name="sceneIII_15.1"></a><b>ACT III</b></h2> + +<h3><b>SCENE I. London. The Queen’s apartments.</b></h3> + +<p class="scenedesc">Enter <span class="charname">Queen</span> and her Women, as +at work.</p> + +<p class="drama"> +QUEEN KATHERINE.<br/> +Take thy lute, wench. My soul grows sad with troubles.<br/> +Sing, and disperse ’em, if thou canst. Leave working. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOMAN<br/> +[<i>sings song.</i>] +</p> + +<p class="letter"> +Orpheus with his lute made trees<br/> +And the mountain tops that freeze<br/> + Bow themselves when he did sing.<br/> +To his music plants and flowers<br/> +Ever sprung, as sun and showers<br/> + There had made a lasting spring. +</p> + +<p class="letter"> +Everything that heard him play,<br/> +Even the billows of the sea,<br/> + Hung their heads and then lay by.<br/> +In sweet music is such art,<br/> +Killing care and grief of heart<br/> + Fall asleep or, hearing, die. +</p> + +<p class="scenedesc">Enter a <span class="charname">Gentleman</span>.</p> + +<p class="drama"> +QUEEN KATHERINE.<br/> +How now? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +GENTLEMAN.<br/> +An’t please your Grace, the two great Cardinals<br/> +Wait in the presence. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +QUEEN KATHERINE.<br/> +Would they speak with me? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +GENTLEMAN.<br/> +They willed me say so, madam. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +QUEEN KATHERINE.<br/> +Pray their Graces<br/> +To come near. +</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>Exit <span class="charname">Gentleman</span>.</i>]</p> + +<p class="drama"> +What can be their business<br/> +With me, a poor weak woman, fallen from favour?<br/> +I do not like their coming. Now I think on’t,<br/> +They should be good men, their affairs as righteous.<br/> +But all hoods make not monks. +</p> + +<p class="scenedesc">Enter the two <span class="charname">Cardinals, Wolsey</span> +and <span class="charname">Campeius</span>.</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +Peace to your Highness. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +QUEEN KATHERINE.<br/> +Your Graces find me here part of housewife;<br/> +I would be all, against the worst may happen.<br/> +What are your pleasures with me, reverend lords? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +May it please you, noble madam, to withdraw<br/> +Into your private chamber, we shall give you<br/> +The full cause of our coming. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +QUEEN KATHERINE.<br/> +Speak it here.<br/> +There’s nothing I have done yet, o’ my conscience,<br/> +Deserves a corner. Would all other women<br/> +Could speak this with as free a soul as I do!<br/> +My lords, I care not, so much I am happy<br/> +Above a number, if my actions<br/> +Were tried by every tongue, every eye saw ’em,<br/> +Envy and base opinion set against ’em,<br/> +I know my life so even. If your business<br/> +Seek me out, and that way I am wife in,<br/> +Out with it boldly. Truth loves open dealing. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +<i>Tanta est erga te mentis integritas, regina serenissima</i>— +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +QUEEN KATHERINE.<br/> +O, good my lord, no Latin.<br/> +I am not such a truant since my coming<br/> +As not to know the language I have lived in.<br/> +A strange tongue makes my cause more strange, suspicious.<br/> +Pray speak in English. Here are some will thank you,<br/> +If you speak truth, for their poor mistress’ sake.<br/> +Believe me, she has had much wrong. Lord Cardinal,<br/> +The willing’st sin I ever yet committed<br/> +May be absolved in English. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +Noble lady,<br/> +I am sorry my integrity should breed—<br/> +And service to his Majesty and you—<br/> +So deep suspicion, where all faith was meant.<br/> +We come not by the way of accusation,<br/> +To taint that honour every good tongue blesses,<br/> +Nor to betray you any way to sorrow—<br/> +You have too much, good lady—but to know<br/> +How you stand minded in the weighty difference<br/> +Between the King and you, and to deliver,<br/> +Like free and honest men, our just opinions<br/> +And comforts to your cause. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CAMPEIUS.<br/> +Most honoured madam,<br/> +My Lord of York, out of his noble nature,<br/> +Zeal, and obedience he still bore your Grace,<br/> +Forgetting, like a good man, your late censure<br/> +Both of his truth and him—which was too far—<br/> +Offers, as I do, in a sign of peace,<br/> +His service and his counsel. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +QUEEN KATHERINE.<br/> +[<i>Aside</i>.] To betray me.<br/> +My lords, I thank you both for your good wills.<br/> +Ye speak like honest men; pray God ye prove so.<br/> +But how to make ye suddenly an answer<br/> +In such a point of weight, so near mine honour—<br/> +More near my life, I fear—with my weak wit,<br/> +And to such men of gravity and learning,<br/> +In truth I know not. I was set at work<br/> +Among my maids, full little, God knows, looking<br/> +Either for such men or such business.<br/> +For her sake that I have been—for I feel<br/> +The last fit of my greatness—good your Graces,<br/> +Let me have time and counsel for my cause.<br/> +Alas, I am a woman friendless, hopeless. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +Madam, you wrong the King’s love with these fears;<br/> +Your hopes and friends are infinite. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +QUEEN KATHERINE.<br/> +In England<br/> +But little for my profit. Can you think, lords,<br/> +That any Englishman dare give me counsel?<br/> +Or be a known friend, ’gainst his Highness’ pleasure,<br/> +Though he be grown so desperate to be honest,<br/> +And live a subject? Nay, forsooth, my friends,<br/> +They that much weigh out my afflictions,<br/> +They that my trust must grow to, live not here.<br/> +They are, as all my other comforts, far hence<br/> +In mine own country, lords. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CAMPEIUS.<br/> +I would your Grace<br/> +Would leave your griefs and take my counsel. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +QUEEN KATHERINE.<br/> +How, sir? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CAMPEIUS.<br/> +Put your main cause into the King’s protection.<br/> +He’s loving and most gracious. ’Twill be much<br/> +Both for your honour better and your cause,<br/> +For if the trial of the law o’ertake ye,<br/> +You’ll part away disgraced. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +He tells you rightly. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +QUEEN KATHERINE.<br/> +Ye tell me what ye wish for both: my ruin.<br/> +Is this your Christian counsel? Out upon ye!<br/> +Heaven is above all yet; there sits a judge<br/> +That no king can corrupt. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CAMPEIUS.<br/> +Your rage mistakes us. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +QUEEN KATHERINE.<br/> +The more shame for ye! Holy men I thought ye,<br/> +Upon my soul, two reverend cardinal virtues;<br/> +But cardinal sins and hollow hearts I fear ye.<br/> +Mend ’em, for shame, my lords. Is this your comfort,<br/> +The cordial that ye bring a wretched lady,<br/> +A woman lost among ye, laughed at, scorned?<br/> +I will not wish ye half my miseries;<br/> +I have more charity. But say I warned ye.<br/> +Take heed, for heaven’s sake, take heed, lest at once<br/> +The burden of my sorrows fall upon ye. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +Madam, this is a mere distraction.<br/> +You turn the good we offer into envy. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +QUEEN KATHERINE.<br/> +Ye turn me into nothing. Woe upon ye<br/> +And all such false professors! Would you have me—<br/> +If you have any justice, any pity,<br/> +If ye be anything but churchmen’s habits—<br/> +Put my sick cause into his hands that hates me?<br/> +Alas, ’has banished me his bed already,<br/> +His love, too, long ago. I am old, my lords,<br/> +And all the fellowship I hold now with him<br/> +Is only my obedience. What can happen<br/> +To me above this wretchedness? All your studies<br/> +Make me a curse like this. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CAMPEIUS.<br/> +Your fears are worse. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +QUEEN KATHERINE.<br/> +Have I lived thus long—let me speak myself,<br/> +Since virtue finds no friends—a wife, a true one—<br/> +A woman, I dare say without vainglory,<br/> +Never yet branded with suspicion—<br/> +Have I with all my full affections<br/> +Still met the King, loved him next heav’n, obeyed him,<br/> +Been, out of fondness, superstitious to him,<br/> +Almost forgot my prayers to content him,<br/> +And am I thus rewarded? ’Tis not well, lords.<br/> +Bring me a constant woman to her husband,<br/> +One that ne’er dreamed a joy beyond his pleasure,<br/> +And to that woman, when she has done most,<br/> +Yet will I add an honour: a great patience. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +Madam, you wander from the good we aim at. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +QUEEN KATHERINE.<br/> +My lord, I dare not make myself so guilty<br/> +To give up willingly that noble title<br/> +Your master wed me to. Nothing but death<br/> +Shall e’er divorce my dignities. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +Pray hear me. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +QUEEN KATHERINE.<br/> +Would I had never trod this English earth<br/> +Or felt the flatteries that grow upon it!<br/> +Ye have angels’ faces, but heaven knows your hearts.<br/> +What will become of me now, wretched lady?<br/> +I am the most unhappy woman living.<br/> +[<i>To her Women</i>.] Alas, poor wenches, where are now your fortunes?<br/> +Shipwrecked upon a kingdom where no pity,<br/> +No friends, no hope, no kindred weep for me,<br/> +Almost no grave allowed me, like the lily<br/> +That once was mistress of the field and flourished,<br/> +I’ll hang my head and perish. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +If your Grace<br/> +Could but be brought to know our ends are honest,<br/> +You’d feel more comfort. Why should we, good lady,<br/> +Upon what cause, wrong you? Alas, our places,<br/> +The way of our profession, is against it.<br/> +We are to cure such sorrows, not to sow ’em.<br/> +For goodness’ sake, consider what you do,<br/> +How you may hurt yourself, ay, utterly<br/> +Grow from the King’s acquaintance, by this carriage.<br/> +The hearts of princes kiss obedience,<br/> +So much they love it, but to stubborn spirits<br/> +They swell and grow as terrible as storms.<br/> +I know you have a gentle, noble temper,<br/> +A soul as even as a calm. Pray think us<br/> +Those we profess: peacemakers, friends, and servants. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CAMPEIUS.<br/> +Madam, you’ll find it so. You wrong your virtues<br/> +With these weak women’s fears. A noble spirit,<br/> +As yours was put into you, ever casts<br/> +Such doubts, as false coin, from it. The King loves you;<br/> +Beware you lose it not. For us, if you please<br/> +To trust us in your business, we are ready<br/> +To use our utmost studies in your service. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +QUEEN KATHERINE.<br/> +Do what ye will, my lords, and pray forgive me<br/> +If I have used myself unmannerly.<br/> +You know I am a woman, lacking wit<br/> +To make a seemly answer to such persons.<br/> +Pray do my service to his Majesty.<br/> +He has my heart yet, and shall have my prayers<br/> +While I shall have my life. Come, reverend fathers,<br/> +Bestow your counsels on me. She now begs<br/> +That little thought, when she set footing here,<br/> +She should have bought her dignities so dear. +</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>Exeunt.</i>]</p> + +<h3><a name="sceneIII_15.2"></a><b>SCENE II. Ante-chamber to the King’s apartment.</b></h3> + +<p class="scenedesc">Enter the <span class="charname">Duke of Norfolk, +Duke of Suffolk, Lord Surrey</span> and <span class="charname">Lord +Chamberlain</span>.</p> + +<p class="drama"> +NORFOLK.<br/> +If you will now unite in your complaints<br/> +And force them with a constancy, the Cardinal<br/> +Cannot stand under them. If you omit<br/> +The offer of this time, I cannot promise<br/> +But that you shall sustain more new disgraces<br/> +With these you bear already. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SURREY.<br/> +I am joyful<br/> +To meet the least occasion that may give me<br/> +Remembrance of my father-in-law the Duke,<br/> +To be revenged on him. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SUFFOLK.<br/> +Which of the peers<br/> +Have uncontemned gone by him, or at least<br/> +Strangely neglected? When did he regard<br/> +The stamp of nobleness in any person<br/> +Out of himself? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CHAMBERLAIN.<br/> +My lords, you speak your pleasures.<br/> +What he deserves of you and me I know;<br/> +What we can do to him—though now the time<br/> +Gives way to us—I much fear. If you cannot<br/> +Bar his access to th’ King, never attempt<br/> +Anything on him, for he hath a witchcraft<br/> +Over the King in ’s tongue. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +NORFOLK.<br/> +O, fear him not.<br/> +His spell in that is out. The King hath found<br/> +Matter against him that for ever mars<br/> +The honey of his language. No, he’s settled,<br/> +Not to come off, in his displeasure. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SURREY.<br/> +Sir,<br/> +I should be glad to hear such news as this<br/> +Once every hour. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +NORFOLK.<br/> +Believe it, this is true.<br/> +In the divorce his contrary proceedings<br/> +Are all unfolded, wherein he appears<br/> +As I would wish mine enemy. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SURREY.<br/> +How came<br/> +His practices to light? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SUFFOLK.<br/> +Most strangely. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SURREY.<br/> +O, how, how? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SUFFOLK.<br/> +The Cardinal’s letters to the Pope miscarried,<br/> +And came to th’ eye o’ the King, wherein was read<br/> +How that the Cardinal did entreat his Holiness<br/> +To stay the judgement o’ th’ divorce; for if<br/> +It did take place, “I do” quoth he “perceive<br/> +My king is tangled in affection to<br/> +A creature of the Queen’s, Lady Anne Bullen.” +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SURREY.<br/> +Has the King this? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SUFFOLK.<br/> +Believe it. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SURREY.<br/> +Will this work? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CHAMBERLAIN.<br/> +The King in this perceives him how he coasts<br/> +And hedges his own way. But in this point<br/> +All his tricks founder, and he brings his physic<br/> +After his patient’s death. The King already<br/> +Hath married the fair lady. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SURREY.<br/> +Would he had! +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SUFFOLK.<br/> +May you be happy in your wish, my lord,<br/> +For I profess you have it. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SURREY.<br/> +Now, all my joy<br/> +Trace the conjunction! +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SUFFOLK.<br/> +My amen to’t! +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +NORFOLK.<br/> +All men’s. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SUFFOLK.<br/> +There’s order given for her coronation.<br/> +Marry, this is yet but young, and may be left<br/> +To some ears unrecounted. But, my lords,<br/> +She is a gallant creature, and complete<br/> +In mind and feature. I persuade me, from her<br/> +Will fall some blessing to this land which shall<br/> +In it be memorized. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SURREY.<br/> +But will the King<br/> +Digest this letter of the Cardinal’s?<br/> +The Lord forbid! +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +NORFOLK.<br/> +Marry, amen! +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SUFFOLK.<br/> +No, no.<br/> +There be more wasps that buzz about his nose<br/> +Will make this sting the sooner. Cardinal Campeius<br/> +Is stolen away to Rome; hath ta’en no leave;<br/> +Has left the cause o’ th’ King unhandled, and<br/> +Is posted, as the agent of our Cardinal,<br/> +To second all his plot. I do assure you<br/> +The King cried “Ha!” at this. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CHAMBERLAIN.<br/> +Now, God incense him,<br/> +And let him cry “Ha!” louder. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +NORFOLK.<br/> +But, my lord,<br/> +When returns Cranmer? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SUFFOLK.<br/> +He is returned in his opinions, which<br/> +Have satisfied the King for his divorce,<br/> +Together with all famous colleges<br/> +Almost in Christendom. Shortly, I believe,<br/> +His second marriage shall be published, and<br/> +Her coronation. Katherine no more<br/> +Shall be called Queen, but Princess Dowager<br/> +And widow to Prince Arthur. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +NORFOLK.<br/> +This same Cranmer’s<br/> +A worthy fellow, and hath ta’en much pain<br/> +In the King’s business. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SUFFOLK.<br/> +He has, and we shall see him<br/> +For it an archbishop. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +NORFOLK.<br/> +So I hear. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SUFFOLK.<br/> +’Tis so. +</p> + +<p class="scenedesc">Enter <span class="charname">Wolsey</span> and +<span class="charname">Cromwell</span>.</p> + +<p class="drama"> +The Cardinal! +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +NORFOLK.<br/> +Observe, observe; he’s moody. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +The packet, Cromwell,<br/> +Gave’t you the King? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CROMWELL.<br/> +To his own hand, in ’s bedchamber. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +Looked he o’ th’ inside of the paper? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CROMWELL.<br/> +Presently<br/> +He did unseal them, and the first he viewed,<br/> +He did it with a serious mind; a heed<br/> +Was in his countenance. You he bade<br/> +Attend him here this morning. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +Is he ready<br/> +To come abroad? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CROMWELL.<br/> +I think by this he is. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +Leave me a while. +</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>Exit <span class="charname">Cromwell</span>.</i>]</p> + +<p class="drama"> +[<i>Aside</i>.] It shall be to the Duchess of Alençon,<br/> +The French king’s sister; he shall marry her.<br/> +Anne Bullen? No; I’ll no Anne Bullens for him.<br/> +There’s more in’t than fair visage. Bullen?<br/> +No, we’ll no Bullens. Speedily I wish<br/> +To hear from Rome. The Marchioness of Pembroke! +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +NORFOLK.<br/> +He’s discontented. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SUFFOLK.<br/> +Maybe he hears the King<br/> +Does whet his anger to him. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SURREY.<br/> +Sharp enough,<br/> +Lord, for thy justice! +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +[<i>Aside</i>.] The late queen’s gentlewoman, a knight’s daughter,<br/> +To be her mistress’ mistress? The Queen’s Queen?<br/> +This candle burns not clear. ’Tis I must snuff it;<br/> +Then out it goes. What though I know her virtuous<br/> +And well deserving? Yet I know her for<br/> +A spleeny Lutheran, and not wholesome to<br/> +Our cause, that she should lie i’ th’ bosom of<br/> +Our hard-ruled King. Again, there is sprung up<br/> +An heretic, an arch-one, Cranmer, one<br/> +Hath crawled into the favour of the King<br/> +And is his oracle. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +NORFOLK.<br/> +He is vexed at something. +</p> + +<p class="scenedesc">Enter <span class="charname">King</span>, reading a +schedule, and <span class="charname">Lovell</span>.</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SURREY.<br/> +I would ’twere something that would fret the string,<br/> +The master-cord on ’s heart. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SUFFOLK.<br/> +The King, the King! +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +What piles of wealth hath he accumulated<br/> +To his own portion! And what expense by th’ hour<br/> +Seems to flow from him! How, i’ th’ name of thrift<br/> +Does he rake this together? Now, my lords,<br/> +Saw you the Cardinal? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +NORFOLK.<br/> +My lord, we have<br/> +Stood here observing him. Some strange commotion<br/> +Is in his brain. He bites his lip, and starts,<br/> +Stops on a sudden, looks upon the ground,<br/> +Then lays his finger on his temple; straight<br/> +Springs out into fast gait; then stops again,<br/> +Strikes his breast hard, and anon he casts<br/> +His eye against the moon. In most strange postures<br/> +We have seen him set himself. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +It may well be<br/> +There is a mutiny in ’s mind. This morning<br/> +Papers of state he sent me to peruse,<br/> +As I required; and wot you what I found<br/> +There—on my conscience, put unwittingly?<br/> +Forsooth, an inventory, thus importing<br/> +The several parcels of his plate, his treasure,<br/> +Rich stuffs and ornaments of household, which<br/> +I find at such proud rate that it outspeaks<br/> +Possession of a subject. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +NORFOLK.<br/> +It’s heaven’s will!<br/> +Some spirit put this paper in the packet<br/> +To bless your eye withal. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +If we did think<br/> +His contemplation were above the earth<br/> +And fixed on spiritual object, he should still<br/> +Dwell in his musings, but I am afraid<br/> +His thinkings are below the moon, not worth<br/> +His serious considering. +</p> + +<p class="right">[<i><span class="charname">King</span> takes his seat; +whispers <span class="charname">Lovell</span>, who goes to the <span +class="charname">Cardinal</span>.</i>]</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +Heaven forgive me!<br/> +Ever God bless your Highness. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +Good my lord,<br/> +You are full of heavenly stuff, and bear the inventory<br/> +Of your best graces in your mind, the which<br/> +You were now running o’er. You have scarce time<br/> +To steal from spiritual leisure a brief span<br/> +To keep your earthly audit. Sure, in that<br/> +I deem you an ill husband, and am glad<br/> +To have you therein my companion. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +Sir,<br/> +For holy offices I have a time; a time<br/> +To think upon the part of business which<br/> +I bear i’ th’ state; and Nature does require<br/> +Her times of preservation, which perforce<br/> +I, her frail son, amongst my brethren mortal,<br/> +Must give my tendance to. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +You have said well. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +And ever may your Highness yoke together,<br/> +As I will lend you cause, my doing well<br/> +With my well saying. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +’Tis well said again,<br/> +And ’tis a kind of good deed to say well.<br/> +And yet words are no deeds. My father loved you;<br/> +He said he did, and with his deed did crown<br/> +His word upon you. Since I had my office,<br/> +I have kept you next my heart, have not alone<br/> +Employed you where high profits might come home,<br/> +But pared my present havings to bestow<br/> +My bounties upon you. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +[<i>Aside</i>.] What should this mean? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SURREY.<br/> +[<i>Aside</i>.] The Lord increase this business! +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +Have I not made you<br/> +The prime man of the state? I pray you tell me,<br/> +If what I now pronounce you have found true,<br/> +And, if you may confess it, say withal<br/> +If you are bound to us or no. What say you? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +My sovereign, I confess your royal graces,<br/> +Showered on me daily, have been more than could<br/> +My studied purposes requite, which went<br/> +Beyond all man’s endeavours. My endeavours<br/> +Have ever come too short of my desires,<br/> +Yet filed with my abilities. Mine own ends<br/> +Have been mine so that evermore they pointed<br/> +To th’ good of your most sacred person and<br/> +The profit of the state. For your great graces<br/> +Heaped upon me, poor undeserver, I<br/> +Can nothing render but allegiant thanks,<br/> +My prayers to heaven for you, my loyalty,<br/> +Which ever has and ever shall be growing,<br/> +Till death, that winter, kill it. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +Fairly answered.<br/> +A loyal and obedient subject is<br/> +Therein illustrated. The honour of it<br/> +Does pay the act of it, as i’ th’ contrary,<br/> +The foulness is the punishment. I presume<br/> +That, as my hand has opened bounty to you,<br/> +My heart dropped love, my power rained honour, more<br/> +On you than any, so your hand and heart,<br/> +Your brain, and every function of your power,<br/> +Should, notwithstanding that your bond of duty,<br/> +As ’twere in love’s particular, be more<br/> +To me, your friend, than any. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +I do profess<br/> +That for your Highness’ good I ever laboured<br/> +More than mine own, that am, have, and will be.<br/> +Though all the world should crack their duty to you<br/> +And throw it from their soul, though perils did<br/> +Abound as thick as thought could make ’em, and<br/> +Appear in forms more horrid—yet my duty,<br/> +As doth a rock against the chiding flood,<br/> +Should the approach of this wild river break,<br/> +And stand unshaken yours. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +’Tis nobly spoken.<br/> +Take notice, lords: he has a loyal breast,<br/> +For you have seen him open’t. +</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>Giving him papers.</i>]</p> + +<p class="drama"> +Read o’er this,<br/> +And after, this; and then to breakfast with<br/> +What appetite you have. +</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>Exit <span class="charname">King</span>, frowning upon +the <span class="charname">Cardinal;</span> the nobles throng after him, +smiling and whispering.</i>]</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +What should this mean?<br/> +What sudden anger’s this? How have I reaped it?<br/> +He parted frowning from me, as if ruin<br/> +Leaped from his eyes. So looks the chafed lion<br/> +Upon the daring huntsman that has galled him,<br/> +Then makes him nothing. I must read this paper—<br/> +I fear, the story of his anger. ’Tis so.<br/> +This paper has undone me. ’Tis th’ account<br/> +Of all that world of wealth I have drawn together<br/> +For mine own ends—indeed, to gain the popedom<br/> +And fee my friends in Rome. O negligence,<br/> +Fit for a fool to fall by! What cross devil<br/> +Made me put this main secret in the packet<br/> +I sent the King? Is there no way to cure this?<br/> +No new device to beat this from his brains?<br/> +I know ’twill stir him strongly; yet I know<br/> +A way, if it take right, in spite of fortune,<br/> +Will bring me off again. What’s this? “To th’ Pope”?<br/> +The letter, as I live, with all the business<br/> +I writ to ’s Holiness. Nay then, farewell!<br/> +I have touched the highest point of all my greatness,<br/> +And from that full meridian of my glory<br/> +I haste now to my setting. I shall fall<br/> +Like a bright exhalation in the evening,<br/> +And no man see me more. +</p> + +<p class="scenedesc">Enter to <span class="charname">Wolsey</span>, the <span +class="charname">Dukes of Norfolk</span> and <span +class="charname">Suffolk</span>, the <span class="charname">Earl of +Surrey</span>, and the <span class="charname">Lord Chamberlain</span>.</p> + +<p class="drama"> +NORFOLK.<br/> +Hear the King’s pleasure, Cardinal, who commands you<br/> +To render up the great seal presently<br/> +Into our hands, and to confine yourself<br/> +To Asher House, my Lord of Winchester’s,<br/> +Till you hear further from his Highness. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +Stay.<br/> +Where’s your commission, lords? Words cannot carry<br/> +Authority so weighty. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SUFFOLK.<br/> +Who dares cross ’em,<br/> +Bearing the King’s will from his mouth expressly? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +Till I find more than will or words to do it—<br/> +I mean your malice—know, officious lords,<br/> +I dare and must deny it. Now I feel<br/> +Of what coarse metal ye are moulded, envy!<br/> +How eagerly ye follow my disgraces,<br/> +As if it fed ye, and how sleek and wanton<br/> +Ye appear in everything may bring my ruin!<br/> +Follow your envious courses, men of malice;<br/> +You have Christian warrant for ’em, and no doubt<br/> +In time will find their fit rewards. That seal<br/> +You ask with such a violence, the King,<br/> +Mine and your master, with his own hand gave me;<br/> +Bade me enjoy it, with the place and honours,<br/> +During my life; and, to confirm his goodness,<br/> +Tied it by letters-patents. Now, who’ll take it? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SURREY.<br/> +The King that gave it. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +It must be himself, then. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SURREY.<br/> +Thou art a proud traitor, priest. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +Proud lord, thou liest.<br/> +Within these forty hours Surrey durst better<br/> +Have burnt that tongue than said so. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SURREY.<br/> +Thy ambition,<br/> +Thou scarlet sin, robbed this bewailing land<br/> +Of noble Buckingham, my father-in-law.<br/> +The heads of all thy brother cardinals,<br/> +With thee and all thy best parts bound together,<br/> +Weighed not a hair of his. Plague of your policy!<br/> +You sent me Deputy for Ireland,<br/> +Far from his succour, from the King, from all<br/> +That might have mercy on the fault thou gav’st him,<br/> +Whilst your great goodness, out of holy pity,<br/> +Absolved him with an axe. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +This, and all else<br/> +This talking lord can lay upon my credit,<br/> +I answer is most false. The Duke by law<br/> +Found his deserts. How innocent I was<br/> +From any private malice in his end,<br/> +His noble jury and foul cause can witness.<br/> +If I loved many words, lord, I should tell you<br/> +You have as little honesty as honour,<br/> +That in the way of loyalty and truth<br/> +Toward the King, my ever royal master,<br/> +Dare mate a sounder man than Surrey can be,<br/> +And all that love his follies. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SURREY.<br/> +By my soul,<br/> +Your long coat, priest, protects you; thou shouldst feel<br/> +My sword i’ th’ lifeblood of thee else. My lords,<br/> +Can ye endure to hear this arrogance?<br/> +And from this fellow? If we live thus tamely,<br/> +To be thus jaded by a piece of scarlet,<br/> +Farewell, nobility. Let his Grace go forward<br/> +And dare us with his cap, like larks. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +All goodness<br/> +Is poison to thy stomach. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SURREY.<br/> +Yes, that goodness<br/> +Of gleaning all the land’s wealth into one,<br/> +Into your own hands, Cardinal, by extortion;<br/> +The goodness of your intercepted packets<br/> +You writ to the Pope against the King. Your goodness,<br/> +Since you provoke me, shall be most notorious.<br/> +My Lord of Norfolk, as you are truly noble,<br/> +As you respect the common good, the state<br/> +Of our despised nobility, our issues,<br/> +Who, if he live, will scarce be gentlemen,<br/> +Produce the grand sum of his sins, the articles<br/> +Collected from his life. I’ll startle you<br/> +Worse than the sacring bell when the brown wench<br/> +Lay kissing in your arms, Lord Cardinal. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +How much, methinks, I could despise this man,<br/> +But that I am bound in charity against it! +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +NORFOLK.<br/> +Those articles, my lord, are in the King’s hand;<br/> +But thus much, they are foul ones. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +So much fairer<br/> +And spotless shall mine innocence arise<br/> +When the King knows my truth. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SURREY.<br/> +This cannot save you.<br/> +I thank my memory I yet remember<br/> +Some of these articles, and out they shall.<br/> +Now, if you can blush and cry “Guilty,” Cardinal,<br/> +You’ll show a little honesty. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +Speak on, sir;<br/> +I dare your worst objections. If I blush,<br/> +It is to see a nobleman want manners. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SURREY.<br/> +I had rather want those than my head. Have at you!<br/> +First, that without the King’s assent or knowledge,<br/> +You wrought to be a legate, by which power<br/> +You maimed the jurisdiction of all bishops. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +NORFOLK.<br/> +Then, that in all you writ to Rome, or else<br/> +To foreign princes, “<i>ego et rex meus</i>”<br/> +Was still inscribed, in which you brought the King<br/> +To be your servant. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SUFFOLK.<br/> +Then, that without the knowledge<br/> +Either of King or Council, when you went<br/> +Ambassador to the Emperor, you made bold<br/> +To carry into Flanders the great seal. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SURREY.<br/> +Item, you sent a large commission<br/> +To Gregory de Cassado, to conclude,<br/> +Without the King’s will or the state’s allowance,<br/> +A league between his Highness and Ferrara. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SUFFOLK.<br/> +That out of mere ambition you have caused<br/> +Your holy hat to be stamped on the King’s coin. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SURREY.<br/> +Then, that you have sent innumerable substance—<br/> +By what means got, I leave to your own conscience—<br/> +To furnish Rome and to prepare the ways<br/> +You have for dignities, to the mere undoing<br/> +Of all the kingdom. Many more there are,<br/> +Which, since they are of you, and odious,<br/> +I will not taint my mouth with. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CHAMBERLAIN.<br/> +O my lord,<br/> +Press not a falling man too far! ’Tis virtue.<br/> +His faults lie open to the laws; let them,<br/> +Not you, correct him. My heart weeps to see him<br/> +So little of his great self. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SURREY.<br/> +I forgive him. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SUFFOLK.<br/> +Lord Cardinal, the King’s further pleasure is,<br/> +Because all those things you have done of late<br/> +By your power legative within this kingdom<br/> +Fall into th’ compass of a <i>praemunire</i>,<br/> +That therefore such a writ be sued against you<br/> +To forfeit all your goods, lands, tenements,<br/> +Chattels, and whatsoever, and to be<br/> +Out of the King’s protection. This is my charge. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +NORFOLK.<br/> +And so we’ll leave you to your meditations<br/> +How to live better. For your stubborn answer<br/> +About the giving back the great seal to us,<br/> +The King shall know it and, no doubt, shall thank you.<br/> +So fare you well, my little good Lord Cardinal. +</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>Exeunt all but <span class="charname">Wolsey</span>.</i>]</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +So farewell to the little good you bear me.<br/> +Farewell? A long farewell to all my greatness!<br/> +This is the state of man: today he puts forth<br/> +The tender leaves of hopes; tomorrow blossoms,<br/> +And bears his blushing honours thick upon him;<br/> +The third day comes a frost, a killing frost,<br/> +And when he thinks, good easy man, full surely<br/> +His greatness is a-ripening, nips his root,<br/> +And then he falls, as I do. I have ventured,<br/> +Like little wanton boys that swim on bladders,<br/> +This many summers in a sea of glory,<br/> +But far beyond my depth. My high-blown pride<br/> +At length broke under me and now has left me,<br/> +Weary and old with service, to the mercy<br/> +Of a rude stream that must for ever hide me.<br/> +Vain pomp and glory of this world, I hate ye!<br/> +I feel my heart new opened. O, how wretched<br/> +Is that poor man that hangs on princes’ favours!<br/> +There is betwixt that smile we would aspire to,<br/> +That sweet aspect of princes, and their ruin,<br/> +More pangs and fears than wars or women have;<br/> +And when he falls, he falls like Lucifer,<br/> +Never to hope again. +</p> + +<p class="scenedesc">Enter <span class="charname">Cromwell</span>, standing +amazed.</p> + +<p class="drama"> +Why, how now, Cromwell? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CROMWELL.<br/> +I have no power to speak, sir. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +What, amazed<br/> +At my misfortunes? Can thy spirit wonder<br/> +A great man should decline? Nay, an you weep,<br/> +I am fallen indeed. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CROMWELL.<br/> +How does your Grace? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +Why, well.<br/> +Never so truly happy, my good Cromwell.<br/> +I know myself now, and I feel within me<br/> +A peace above all earthly dignities,<br/> +A still and quiet conscience. The King has cured me,<br/> +I humbly thank his Grace, and from these shoulders,<br/> +These ruined pillars, out of pity, taken<br/> +A load would sink a navy: too much honour.<br/> +O, ’tis a burden, Cromwell, ’tis a burden<br/> +Too heavy for a man that hopes for heaven. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CROMWELL.<br/> +I am glad your Grace has made that right use of it. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +I hope I have. I am able now, methinks,<br/> +Out of a fortitude of soul I feel,<br/> +To endure more miseries and greater far<br/> +Than my weak-hearted enemies dare offer.<br/> +What news abroad? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CROMWELL.<br/> +The heaviest and the worst<br/> +Is your displeasure with the King. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +God bless him. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CROMWELL.<br/> +The next is that Sir Thomas More is chosen<br/> +Lord Chancellor in your place. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +That’s somewhat sudden.<br/> +But he’s a learned man. May he continue<br/> +Long in his Highness’ favour, and do justice<br/> +For truth’s sake and his conscience, that his bones,<br/> +When he has run his course and sleeps in blessings,<br/> +May have a tomb of orphans’ tears wept on him.<br/> +What more? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CROMWELL.<br/> +That Cranmer is returned with welcome,<br/> +Installed Lord Archbishop of Canterbury. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +That’s news indeed. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CROMWELL.<br/> +Last, that the Lady Anne,<br/> +Whom the King hath in secrecy long married,<br/> +This day was viewed in open as his Queen,<br/> +Going to chapel, and the voice is now<br/> +Only about her coronation. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +There was the weight that pulled me down.<br/> +O Cromwell,<br/> +The King has gone beyond me. All my glories<br/> +In that one woman I have lost for ever.<br/> +No sun shall ever usher forth mine honours,<br/> +Or gild again the noble troops that waited<br/> +Upon my smiles. Go, get thee from me, Cromwell.<br/> +I am a poor fallen man, unworthy now<br/> +To be thy lord and master. Seek the King;<br/> +That sun, I pray, may never set! I have told him<br/> +What and how true thou art. He will advance thee;<br/> +Some little memory of me will stir him—<br/> +I know his noble nature—not to let<br/> +Thy hopeful service perish too. Good Cromwell,<br/> +Neglect him not; make use now, and provide<br/> +For thine own future safety. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CROMWELL.<br/> +O my lord,<br/> +Must I then leave you? Must I needs forgo<br/> +So good, so noble, and so true a master?<br/> +Bear witness, all that have not hearts of iron,<br/> +With what a sorrow Cromwell leaves his lord.<br/> +The King shall have my service, but my prayers<br/> +For ever and for ever shall be yours. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +Cromwell, I did not think to shed a tear<br/> +In all my miseries, but thou hast forced me,<br/> +Out of thy honest truth, to play the woman.<br/> +Let’s dry our eyes, and thus far hear me, Cromwell,<br/> +And when I am forgotten, as I shall be,<br/> +And sleep in dull cold marble, where no mention<br/> +Of me more must be heard of, say, I taught thee;<br/> +Say Wolsey, that once trod the ways of glory<br/> +And sounded all the depths and shoals of honour,<br/> +Found thee a way, out of his wreck, to rise in,<br/> +A sure and safe one, though thy master missed it.<br/> +Mark but my fall and that that ruined me.<br/> +Cromwell, I charge thee, fling away ambition!<br/> +By that sin fell the angels; how can man, then,<br/> +The image of his maker, hope to win by it?<br/> +Love thyself last; cherish those hearts that hate thee.<br/> +Corruption wins not more than honesty.<br/> +Still in thy right hand carry gentle peace<br/> +To silence envious tongues. Be just, and fear not.<br/> +Let all the ends thou aim’st at be thy country’s,<br/> +Thy God’s, and truth’s. Then if thou fall’st, O Cromwell,<br/> +Thou fall’st a blessed martyr!<br/> +Serve the King. And, prithee, lead me in.<br/> +There take an inventory of all I have.<br/> +To the last penny; ’tis the King’s. My robe<br/> +And my integrity to heaven is all<br/> +I dare now call mine own. O Cromwell, Cromwell,<br/> +Had I but served my God with half the zeal<br/> +I served my king, He would not in mine age<br/> +Have left me naked to mine enemies. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CROMWELL.<br/> +Good sir, have patience. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +WOLSEY.<br/> +So I have. Farewell,<br/> +The hopes of court! My hopes in heaven do dwell. +</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>Exeunt.</i>]</p> + +</div><!--end chapter--> + +<div class="chapter"> + +<h2><a name="sceneIV_15.1"></a><b>ACT IV</b></h2> + +<h3><b>SCENE I. A street in Westminster.</b></h3> + +<p class="scenedesc">Enter two <span class="charname">Gentlemen</span>, meeting +one another.</p> + +<p class="drama"> +FIRST GENTLEMAN.<br/> +You’re well met once again. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SECOND GENTLEMAN.<br/> +So are you. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +FIRST GENTLEMAN.<br/> +You come to take your stand here and behold<br/> +The Lady Anne pass from her coronation? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SECOND GENTLEMAN.<br/> +’Tis all my business. At our last encounter,<br/> +The Duke of Buckingham came from his trial. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +FIRST GENTLEMAN.<br/> +’Tis very true. But that time offered sorrow,<br/> +This, general joy. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SECOND GENTLEMAN.<br/> +’Tis well. The citizens,<br/> +I am sure, have shown at full their royal minds,<br/> +As, let ’em have their rights, they are ever forward<br/> +In celebration of this day with shows,<br/> +Pageants, and sights of honour. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +FIRST GENTLEMAN.<br/> +Never greater,<br/> +Nor, I’ll assure you, better taken, sir. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SECOND GENTLEMAN.<br/> +May I be bold to ask what that contains,<br/> +That paper in your hand? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +FIRST GENTLEMAN.<br/> +Yes, ’tis the list<br/> +Of those that claim their offices this day<br/> +By custom of the coronation.<br/> +The Duke of Suffolk is the first, and claims<br/> +To be High Steward; next, the Duke of Norfolk,<br/> +He to be Earl Marshal. You may read the rest. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SECOND GENTLEMAN.<br/> +I thank you, sir. Had I not known those customs,<br/> +I should have been beholding to your paper.<br/> +But I beseech you, what’s become of Katherine,<br/> +The Princess Dowager? How goes her business? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +FIRST GENTLEMAN.<br/> +That I can tell you too. The Archbishop<br/> +Of Canterbury, accompanied with other<br/> +Learned and reverend fathers of his order,<br/> +Held a late court at Dunstable, six miles off<br/> +From Ampthill where the Princess lay; to which<br/> +She was often cited by them, but appeared not;<br/> +And, to be short, for not appearance and<br/> +The King’s late scruple, by the main assent<br/> +Of all these learned men she was divorced,<br/> +And the late marriage made of none effect;<br/> +Since which she was removed to Kimbolton,<br/> +Where she remains now sick. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SECOND GENTLEMAN.<br/> +Alas, good lady! +</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>Trumpets.</i>]</p> + +<p class="drama"> +The trumpets sound. Stand close. The Queen is coming. +</p> + +<p class="center"> +<i>The order of the coronation</i>. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +<i>1. A lively flourish of trumpets.<br/> +2. Then, two Judges.<br/> +3. Lord <span class="charname">Chancellor</span>, with purse and mace before him.<br/> +4. Choristers, singing. Music.<br/> +5. Mayor of London, bearing the mace. Then <span class="charname">Garter</span>, +in his coat of arms, and on his head he wore a gilt copper crown.<br/> +6. Marquess Dorset, bearing a sceptre of gold, on his head a demi-coronal of +gold. With him, the <span class="charname">Earl of Surrey</span>, bearing the +rod of silver with the dove, crowned with an earl’s coronet. Collars of +S’s.<br/> +7. <span class="charname">Duke of Suffolk</span>, in his robe of estate, his +coronet on his head, bearing a long white wand, as High Steward. With him, the +<span class="charname">Duke of Norfolk</span>, with the rod of marshalship, a +coronet on his head. Collars of S’s.<br/> +8. A canopy, borne by four of the Cinque Ports; under it, the <span +class="charname">Queen</span> in her robe, in her hair, richly adorned with +pearl, crowned. On each side her, the Bishops of London and Winchester.<br/> +9. The old Duchess of Norfolk, in a coronal of gold wrought with flowers, +bearing the Queen’s train.<br/> +10. Certain Ladies or Countesses, with plain circlets of +gold without flowers.</i> +</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>Exeunt, first passing over the stage in order and state, +and then a great flourish of trumpets.</i>]</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SECOND GENTLEMAN.<br/> +A royal train, believe me. These I know.<br/> +Who’s that that bears the sceptre? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +FIRST GENTLEMAN.<br/> +Marquess Dorset,<br/> +And that the Earl of Surrey with the rod. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SECOND GENTLEMAN.<br/> +A bold brave gentleman. That should be<br/> +The Duke of Suffolk. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +FIRST GENTLEMAN.<br/> +’Tis the same: High Steward. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SECOND GENTLEMAN.<br/> +And that my Lord of Norfolk? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +FIRST GENTLEMAN.<br/> +Yes. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SECOND GENTLEMAN.<br/> +[<i>Sees the Queen</i>.] Heaven bless thee!<br/> +Thou hast the sweetest face I ever looked on.<br/> +Sir, as I have a soul, she is an angel.<br/> +Our King has all the Indies in his arms,<br/> +And more, and richer, when he strains that lady.<br/> +I cannot blame his conscience. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +FIRST GENTLEMAN.<br/> +They that bear<br/> +The cloth of honour over her are four barons<br/> +Of the Cinque Ports. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SECOND GENTLEMAN.<br/> +Those men are happy, and so are all are near her.<br/> +I take it she that carries up the train<br/> +Is that old noble lady, Duchess of Norfolk. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +FIRST GENTLEMAN.<br/> +It is, and all the rest are countesses. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SECOND GENTLEMAN.<br/> +Their coronets say so. These are stars indeed. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +FIRST GENTLEMAN.<br/> +And sometimes falling ones. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SECOND GENTLEMAN.<br/> +No more of that. +</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>Exit the last of the procession.</i>]</p> + +<p class="scenedesc">Enter a third <span class="charname">Gentleman</span>.</p> + +<p class="drama"> +God save you, sir. Where have you been broiling? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +THIRD GENTLEMAN.<br/> +Among the crowds i’ th’ Abbey, where a finger<br/> +Could not be wedged in more. I am stifled<br/> +With the mere rankness of their joy. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SECOND GENTLEMAN.<br/> +You saw<br/> +The ceremony? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +THIRD GENTLEMAN.<br/> +That I did. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +FIRST GENTLEMAN.<br/> +How was it? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +THIRD GENTLEMAN.<br/> +Well worth the seeing. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SECOND GENTLEMAN.<br/> +Good sir, speak it to us. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +THIRD GENTLEMAN.<br/> +As well as I am able. The rich stream<br/> +Of lords and ladies, having brought the Queen<br/> +To a prepared place in the choir, fell off<br/> +A distance from her, while her Grace sat down<br/> +To rest a while, some half an hour or so,<br/> +In a rich chair of state, opposing freely<br/> +The beauty of her person to the people.<br/> +Believe me, sir, she is the goodliest woman<br/> +That ever lay by man, which when the people<br/> +Had the full view of, such a noise arose<br/> +As the shrouds make at sea in a stiff tempest,<br/> +As loud and to as many tunes. Hats, cloaks,<br/> +Doublets, I think, flew up, and had their faces<br/> +Been loose, this day they had been lost. Such joy<br/> +I never saw before. Great-bellied women<br/> +That had not half a week to go, like rams<br/> +In the old time of war, would shake the press<br/> +And make ’em reel before ’em. No man living<br/> +Could say “This is my wife” there, all were woven<br/> +So strangely in one piece. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SECOND GENTLEMAN.<br/> +But what followed? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +THIRD GENTLEMAN.<br/> +At length her Grace rose, and with modest paces<br/> +Came to the altar, where she kneeled and saintlike<br/> +Cast her fair eyes to heaven and prayed devoutly;<br/> +Then rose again and bowed her to the people,<br/> +When by the Archbishop of Canterbury<br/> +She had all the royal makings of a queen,<br/> +As holy oil, Edward Confessor’s crown,<br/> +The rod, and bird of peace, and all such emblems<br/> +Laid nobly on her; which performed, the choir,<br/> +With all the choicest music of the kingdom,<br/> +Together sung <i>Te Deum</i>. So she parted,<br/> +And with the same full state paced back again<br/> +To York Place, where the feast is held. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +FIRST GENTLEMAN.<br/> +Sir,<br/> +You must no more call it “York Place”, that’s past;<br/> +For since the Cardinal fell, that title’s lost.<br/> +’Tis now the King’s, and called “Whitehall”. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +THIRD GENTLEMAN.<br/> +I know it,<br/> +But ’tis so lately altered that the old name<br/> +Is fresh about me. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SECOND GENTLEMAN.<br/> +What two reverend bishops<br/> +Were those that went on each side of the Queen? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +THIRD GENTLEMAN.<br/> +Stokesley and Gardiner, the one of Winchester,<br/> +Newly preferred from the King’s secretary;<br/> +The other, London. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SECOND GENTLEMAN.<br/> +He of Winchester<br/> +Is held no great good lover of the Archbishop’s,<br/> +The virtuous Cranmer. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +THIRD GENTLEMAN.<br/> +All the land knows that.<br/> +However, yet there is no great breach. When it comes,<br/> +Cranmer will find a friend will not shrink from him. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SECOND GENTLEMAN.<br/> +Who may that be, I pray you? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +THIRD GENTLEMAN.<br/> +Thomas Cromwell,<br/> +A man in much esteem with th’ King, and truly<br/> +A worthy friend. The King has made him<br/> +Master o’ th’ Jewel House,<br/> +And one already of the Privy Council. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SECOND GENTLEMAN.<br/> +He will deserve more. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +THIRD GENTLEMAN.<br/> +Yes, without all doubt.<br/> +Come, gentlemen, ye shall go my way,<br/> +Which is to th’ court, and there ye shall be my guests,<br/> +Something I can command. As I walk thither,<br/> +I’ll tell ye more. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +BOTH.<br/> +You may command us, sir. +</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>Exeunt.</i>]</p> + +<h3><a name="sceneIV_15.2"></a><b>SCENE II. Kimbolton.</b></h3> + +<p class="scenedesc">Enter <span class="charname">Katherine</span> Dowager, +sick, led between <span class="charname">Griffith</span>, her gentleman usher, +and <span class="charname">Patience</span>, her woman.</p> + +<p class="drama"> +GRIFFITH.<br/> +How does your Grace? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +QUEEN KATHERINE.<br/> +O Griffith, sick to death.<br/> +My legs like loaden branches bow to th’ earth,<br/> +Willing to leave their burden. Reach a chair. +</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>She sits.</i>]</p> + +<p class="drama"> +So. Now, methinks, I feel a little ease.<br/> +Didst thou not tell me, Griffith, as thou ledst me,<br/> +That the great child of honour, Cardinal Wolsey,<br/> +Was dead? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +GRIFFITH.<br/> +Yes, madam, but I think your Grace,<br/> +Out of the pain you suffered, gave no ear to’t. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +QUEEN KATHERINE.<br/> +Prithee, good Griffith, tell me how he died.<br/> +If well, he stepped before me happily<br/> +For my example. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +GRIFFITH.<br/> +Well, the voice goes, madam.<br/> +For after the stout Earl Northumberland<br/> +Arrested him at York and brought him forward,<br/> +As a man sorely tainted, to his answer,<br/> +He fell sick suddenly and grew so ill<br/> +He could not sit his mule. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +QUEEN KATHERINE.<br/> +Alas, poor man! +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +GRIFFITH.<br/> +At last, with easy roads, he came to Leicester,<br/> +Lodged in the abbey, where the reverend abbot,<br/> +With all his covent, honourably received him;<br/> +To whom he gave these words: “O father abbot,<br/> +An old man, broken with the storms of state,<br/> +Is come to lay his weary bones among ye.<br/> +Give him a little earth for charity.”<br/> +So went to bed, where eagerly his sickness<br/> +Pursued him still; and three nights after this,<br/> +About the hour of eight, which he himself<br/> +Foretold should be his last, full of repentance,<br/> +Continual meditations, tears, and sorrows,<br/> +He gave his honours to the world again,<br/> +His blessed part to heaven, and slept in peace. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +QUEEN KATHERINE.<br/> +So may he rest. His faults lie gently on him!<br/> +Yet thus far, Griffith, give me leave to speak him,<br/> +And yet with charity. He was a man<br/> +Of an unbounded stomach, ever ranking<br/> +Himself with princes; one that by suggestion<br/> +Tied all the kingdom. Simony was fair-play.<br/> +His own opinion was his law. I’ th’ presence<br/> +He would say untruths, and be ever double<br/> +Both in his words and meaning. He was never,<br/> +But where he meant to ruin, pitiful.<br/> +His promises were, as he then was, mighty;<br/> +But his performance, as he is now, nothing.<br/> +Of his own body he was ill, and gave<br/> +The clergy ill example. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +GRIFFITH.<br/> +Noble madam,<br/> +Men’s evil manners live in brass; their virtues<br/> +We write in water. May it please your Highness<br/> +To hear me speak his good now? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +QUEEN KATHERINE.<br/> +Yes, good Griffith;<br/> +I were malicious else. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +GRIFFITH.<br/> +This Cardinal,<br/> +Though from an humble stock, undoubtedly<br/> +Was fashioned to much honour. From his cradle<br/> +He was a scholar, and a ripe and good one,<br/> +Exceeding wise, fair-spoken, and persuading;<br/> +Lofty and sour to them that loved him not,<br/> +But to those men that sought him, sweet as summer.<br/> +And though he were unsatisfied in getting,<br/> +Which was a sin, yet in bestowing, madam,<br/> +He was most princely. Ever witness for him<br/> +Those twins of learning that he raised in you,<br/> +Ipswich and Oxford, one of which fell with him,<br/> +Unwilling to outlive the good that did it;<br/> +The other, though unfinished, yet so famous,<br/> +So excellent in art, and still so rising,<br/> +That Christendom shall ever speak his virtue.<br/> +His overthrow heaped happiness upon him,<br/> +For then, and not till then, he felt himself,<br/> +And found the blessedness of being little.<br/> +And, to add greater honours to his age<br/> +Than man could give him, he died fearing God. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +QUEEN KATHERINE.<br/> +After my death I wish no other herald,<br/> +No other speaker of my living actions,<br/> +To keep mine honour from corruption<br/> +But such an honest chronicler as Griffith.<br/> +Whom I most hated living, thou hast made me,<br/> +With thy religious truth and modesty,<br/> +Now in his ashes honour. Peace be with him!<br/> +Patience, be near me still, and set me lower:<br/> +I have not long to trouble thee. Good Griffith,<br/> +Cause the musicians play me that sad note<br/> +I named my knell, whilst I sit meditating<br/> +On that celestial harmony I go to. +</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>Sad and solemn music.</i>]</p> + +<p class="drama"> +GRIFFITH.<br/> +She is asleep. Good wench, let’s sit down quiet,<br/> +For fear we wake her. Softly, gentle Patience. +</p> + +<p class="center"> +<i>The vision.</i> +</p> + +<p class="scenedesc"> +Enter, solemnly tripping one after another, six Personages, clad in white +robes, wearing on their heads garlands of bays, and golden vizards on their +faces, branches of bays or palm in their hands. They first congee unto her, +then dance; and, at certain changes, the first two hold a spare garland over +her head, at which the other four make reverent curtsies. Then the two that +held the garland deliver the same to the other next two, who observe the same +order in their changes and holding the garland over her head; which done, they +deliver the same garland to the last two, who likewise observe the same order. +At which, as it were by inspiration, she makes in her sleep signs of rejoicing +and holdeth up her hands to heaven. And so in their dancing, vanish, carrying +the garland with them. The music continues. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +QUEEN KATHERINE.<br/> +Spirits of peace, where are ye? Are ye all gone,<br/> +And leave me here in wretchedness behind ye? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +GRIFFITH.<br/> +Madam, we are here. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +QUEEN KATHERINE.<br/> +It is not you I call for.<br/> +Saw ye none enter since I slept? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +GRIFFITH.<br/> +None, madam. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +QUEEN KATHERINE.<br/> +No? Saw you not, even now, a blessed troop<br/> +Invite me to a banquet, whose bright faces<br/> +Cast thousand beams upon me, like the sun?<br/> +They promised me eternal happiness<br/> +And brought me garlands, Griffith, which I feel<br/> +I am not worthy yet to wear. I shall, assuredly. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +GRIFFITH.<br/> +I am most joyful, madam, such good dreams<br/> +Possess your fancy. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +QUEEN KATHERINE.<br/> +Bid the music leave,<br/> +They are harsh and heavy to me. +</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>Music ceases.</i>]</p> + +<p class="drama"> +PATIENCE.<br/> +Do you note<br/> +How much her Grace is altered on the sudden?<br/> +How long her face is drawn? How pale she looks,<br/> +And of an earthly cold? Mark her eyes. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +GRIFFITH.<br/> +She is going, wench. Pray, pray. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +PATIENCE.<br/> +Heaven comfort her! +</p> + +<p class="scenedesc">Enter a <span class="charname">Messenger</span>.</p> + +<p class="drama"> +MESSENGER.<br/> +An’t like your Grace— +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +QUEEN KATHERINE.<br/> +You are a saucy fellow.<br/> +Deserve we no more reverence? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +GRIFFITH.<br/> +You are to blame,<br/> +Knowing she will not lose her wonted greatness,<br/> +To use so rude behaviour. Go to, kneel. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +MESSENGER.<br/> +I humbly do entreat your Highness’ pardon.<br/> +My haste made me unmannerly. There is staying<br/> +A gentleman sent from the King to see you. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +QUEEN KATHERINE.<br/> +Admit him entrance, Griffith. But this fellow<br/> +Let me ne’er see again. +</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>Exit <span class="charname">Messenger</span>.</i>]</p> + +<p class="scenedesc">Enter Lord <span class="charname">Caputius</span>.</p> + +<p class="drama"> +If my sight fail not,<br/> +You should be lord ambassador from the Emperor,<br/> +My royal nephew, and your name Caputius. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CAPUTIUS.<br/> +Madam, the same. Your servant. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +QUEEN KATHERINE.<br/> +O my lord,<br/> +The times and titles now are altered strangely<br/> +With me since first you knew me. But I pray you,<br/> +What is your pleasure with me? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CAPUTIUS.<br/> +Noble lady,<br/> +First, mine own service to your Grace; the next,<br/> +The King’s request that I would visit you,<br/> +Who grieves much for your weakness, and by me<br/> +Sends you his princely commendations,<br/> +And heartily entreats you take good comfort. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +QUEEN KATHERINE.<br/> +O my good lord, that comfort comes too late;<br/> +’Tis like a pardon after execution.<br/> +That gentle physic given in time had cured me,<br/> +But now I am past all comforts here but prayers.<br/> +How does his Highness? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CAPUTIUS.<br/> +Madam, in good health. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +QUEEN KATHERINE.<br/> +So may he ever do, and ever flourish,<br/> +When I shall dwell with worms, and my poor name<br/> +Banished the kingdom. Patience, is that letter<br/> +I caused you write yet sent away? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +PATIENCE.<br/> +No, madam. +</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>Giving it to <span class="charname">Katherine</span>.</i>]</p> + +<p class="drama"> +QUEEN KATHERINE.<br/> +Sir, I most humbly pray you to deliver<br/> +This to my lord the King. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CAPUTIUS.<br/> +Most willing, madam. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +QUEEN KATHERINE.<br/> +In which I have commended to his goodness<br/> +The model of our chaste loves, his young daughter—<br/> +The dews of heaven fall thick in blessings on her!—<br/> +Beseeching him to give her virtuous breeding—<br/> +She is young and of a noble modest nature;<br/> +I hope she will deserve well—and a little<br/> +To love her for her mother’s sake that loved him,<br/> +Heaven knows how dearly. My next poor petition<br/> +Is that his noble Grace would have some pity<br/> +Upon my wretched women, that so long<br/> +Have followed both my fortunes faithfully;<br/> +Of which there is not one, I dare avow—<br/> +And now I should not lie—but will deserve,<br/> +For virtue and true beauty of the soul,<br/> +For honesty and decent carriage,<br/> +A right good husband. Let him be a noble;<br/> +And sure those men are happy that shall have ’em.<br/> +The last is for my men—they are the poorest,<br/> +But poverty could never draw ’em from me—<br/> +That they may have their wages duly paid ’em,<br/> +And something over to remember me by.<br/> +If heaven had pleased to have given me longer life<br/> +And able means, we had not parted thus.<br/> +These are the whole contents, and, good my lord,<br/> +By that you love the dearest in this world,<br/> +As you wish Christian peace to souls departed,<br/> +Stand these poor people’s friend, and urge the King<br/> +To do me this last right. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CAPUTIUS.<br/> +By heaven, I will,<br/> +Or let me lose the fashion of a man! +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +QUEEN KATHERINE.<br/> +I thank you, honest lord. Remember me<br/> +In all humility unto his Highness.<br/> +Say his long trouble now is passing<br/> +Out of this world. Tell him in death I blessed him,<br/> +For so I will. Mine eyes grow dim. Farewell,<br/> +My lord. Griffith, farewell. Nay, Patience,<br/> +You must not leave me yet. I must to bed;<br/> +Call in more women. When I am dead, good wench,<br/> +Let me be used with honour. Strew me over<br/> +With maiden flowers, that all the world may know<br/> +I was a chaste wife to my grave. Embalm me,<br/> +Then lay me forth. Although unqueened, yet like<br/> +A queen and daughter to a king inter me.<br/> +I can no more. +</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>Exeunt leading <span class="charname">Katherine</span>.</i>]</p> + +</div><!--end chapter--> + +<div class="chapter"> + +<h2><a name="sceneV_15.1"></a><b>ACT V</b></h2> + +<h3><b>SCENE I. A gallery in the palace.</b></h3> + +<p class="scenedesc">Enter <span class="charname">Gardiner</span>, Bishop of +Winchester, a Page with a torch before him, met by <span class="charname">Sir +Thomas Lovell</span>.</p> + +<p class="drama"> +GARDINER.<br/> +It’s one o’clock, boy, is’t not? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +PAGE.<br/> +It hath struck. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +GARDINER.<br/> +These should be hours for necessities,<br/> +Not for delights; times to repair our nature<br/> +With comforting repose, and not for us<br/> +To waste these times. Good hour of night, Sir Thomas!<br/> +Whither so late? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +LOVELL.<br/> +Came you from the King, my lord? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +GARDINER.<br/> +I did, Sir Thomas, and left him at primero<br/> +With the Duke of Suffolk. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +LOVELL.<br/> +I must to him too,<br/> +Before he go to bed. I’ll take my leave. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +GARDINER.<br/> +Not yet, Sir Thomas Lovell. What’s the matter?<br/> +It seems you are in haste. An if there be<br/> +No great offence belongs to’t, give your friend<br/> +Some touch of your late business. Affairs that walk,<br/> +As they say spirits do, at midnight have<br/> +In them a wilder nature than the business<br/> +That seeks despatch by day. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +LOVELL.<br/> +My lord, I love you,<br/> +And durst commend a secret to your ear<br/> +Much weightier than this work. The Queen’s in labour—<br/> +They say in great extremity, and feared<br/> +She’ll with the labour end. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +GARDINER.<br/> +The fruit she goes with<br/> +I pray for heartily, that it may find<br/> +Good time, and live; but for the stock, Sir Thomas,<br/> +I wish it grubbed up now. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +LOVELL.<br/> +Methinks I could<br/> +Cry the amen, and yet my conscience says<br/> +She’s a good creature and, sweet lady, does<br/> +Deserve our better wishes. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +GARDINER.<br/> +But, sir, sir,<br/> +Hear me, Sir Thomas. You’re a gentleman<br/> +Of mine own way. I know you wise, religious;<br/> +And let me tell you, it will ne’er be well,<br/> +’Twill not, Sir Thomas Lovell, take’t of me,<br/> +Till Cranmer, Cromwell, her two hands, and she<br/> +Sleep in their graves. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +LOVELL.<br/> +Now, sir, you speak of two<br/> +The most remarked i’ th’ kingdom. As for Cromwell,<br/> +Beside that of the Jewel House, is made Master<br/> +O’ th’ Rolls, and the King’s secretary; further, sir,<br/> +Stands in the gap and trade of more preferments,<br/> +With which the time will load him. Th’ Archbishop<br/> +Is the King’s hand and tongue, and who dare speak<br/> +One syllable against him? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +GARDINER.<br/> +Yes, yes, Sir Thomas,<br/> +There are that dare, and I myself have ventured<br/> +To speak my mind of him. And indeed this day,<br/> +Sir—I may tell it you, I think—I have<br/> +Incensed the lords o’ th’ Council, that he is—<br/> +For so I know he is, they know he is—<br/> +A most arch heretic, a pestilence<br/> +That does infect the land; with which they, moved,<br/> +Have broken with the King, who hath so far<br/> +Given ear to our complaint, of his great grace<br/> +And princely care foreseeing those fell mischiefs<br/> +Our reasons laid before him, hath commanded<br/> +Tomorrow morning to the Council board<br/> +He be convented. He’s a rank weed, Sir Thomas,<br/> +And we must root him out. From your affairs<br/> +I hinder you too long. Good night, Sir Thomas. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +LOVELL.<br/> +Many good nights, my lord. I rest your servant. +</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>Exeunt <span class="charname">Gardiner</span> and +<span class="charname">Page</span>.</i>]</p> + +<p class="scenedesc">Enter <span class="charname">King</span> and +<span class="charname">Suffolk</span>.</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +Charles, I will play no more tonight.<br/> +My mind’s not on’t; you are too hard for me. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SUFFOLK.<br/> +Sir, I did never win of you before. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +But little, Charles,<br/> +Nor shall not, when my fancy’s on my play.<br/> +Now, Lovell, from the Queen what is the news? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +LOVELL.<br/> +I could not personally deliver to her<br/> +What you commanded me, but by her woman<br/> +I sent your message, who returned her thanks<br/> +In the great’st humbleness, and desired your Highness<br/> +Most heartily to pray for her. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +What sayst thou, ha?<br/> +To pray for her? What, is she crying out? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +LOVELL.<br/> +So said her woman, and that her suff’rance made<br/> +Almost each pang a death. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +Alas, good lady! +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SUFFOLK.<br/> +God safely quit her of her burden, and<br/> +With gentle travail, to the gladding of<br/> +Your Highness with an heir! +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +’Tis midnight, Charles.<br/> +Prithee, to bed, and in thy prayers remember<br/> +Th’ estate of my poor Queen. Leave me alone,<br/> +For I must think of that which company<br/> +Will not be friendly to. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SUFFOLK.<br/> +I wish your Highness<br/> +A quiet night, and my good mistress will<br/> +Remember in my prayers. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +Charles, good night. +</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>Exit <span class="charname">Suffolk</span>.</i>]</p> + +<p class="scenedesc">Enter <span class="charname">Sir Anthony Denny</span>.</p> + +<p class="drama"> +Well, sir, what follows? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +DENNY.<br/> +Sir, I have brought my lord the Archbishop,<br/> +As you commanded me. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +Ha! Canterbury? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +DENNY.<br/> +Ay, my good lord. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +’Tis true. Where is he, Denny? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +DENNY.<br/> +He attends your Highness’ pleasure. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +Bring him to us. +</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>Exit <span class="charname">Denny</span>.</i>]</p> + +<p class="drama"> +LOVELL.<br/> +[<i>Aside</i>.] This is about that which the Bishop spake.<br/> +I am happily come hither. +</p> + +<p class="scenedesc">Enter <span class="charname">Cranmer</span> and +<span class="charname">Denny</span>.</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +Avoid the gallery. [<i>Lovell seems to stay</i>.]<br/> +Ha! I have said. Be gone.<br/> +What! +</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>Exeunt <span class="charname">Lovell</span> and +<span class="charname">Denny</span>.</i>]</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CRANMER.<br/> +[<i>Aside</i>.] I am fearful. Wherefore frowns he thus?<br/> +’Tis his aspect of terror. All’s not well. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +How now, my lord? You do desire to know<br/> +Wherefore I sent for you. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CRANMER.<br/> +[<i>Kneeling</i>.] It is my duty<br/> +T’ attend your Highness’ pleasure. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +Pray you, arise,<br/> +My good and gracious Lord of Canterbury.<br/> +Come, you and I must walk a turn together.<br/> +I have news to tell you. Come, come, give me your hand.<br/> +Ah, my good lord, I grieve at what I speak,<br/> +And am right sorry to repeat what follows.<br/> +I have, and most unwillingly, of late<br/> +Heard many grievous—I do say, my lord,<br/> +Grievous—complaints of you, which, being considered,<br/> +Have moved us and our Council that you shall<br/> +This morning come before us, where I know,<br/> +You cannot with such freedom purge yourself<br/> +But that, till further trial in those charges<br/> +Which will require your answer, you must take<br/> +Your patience to you and be well contented<br/> +To make your house our Tower. You a brother of us,<br/> +It fits we thus proceed, or else no witness<br/> +Would come against you. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CRANMER.<br/> +[<i>Kneeling</i>.] I humbly thank your Highness,<br/> +And am right glad to catch this good occasion<br/> +Most throughly to be winnowed, where my chaff<br/> +And corn shall fly asunder. For I know<br/> +There’s none stands under more calumnious tongues<br/> +Than I myself, poor man. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +Stand up, good Canterbury!<br/> +Thy truth and thy integrity is rooted<br/> +In us, thy friend. Give me thy hand. Stand up.<br/> +Prithee, let’s walk. Now, by my halidom,<br/> +What manner of man are you? My lord, I looked<br/> +You would have given me your petition that<br/> +I should have ta’en some pains to bring together<br/> +Yourself and your accusers and to have heard you<br/> +Without endurance, further. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CRANMER.<br/> +Most dread liege,<br/> +The good I stand on is my truth and honesty.<br/> +If they shall fail, I with mine enemies<br/> +Will triumph o’er my person, which I weigh not,<br/> +Being of those virtues vacant. I fear nothing<br/> +What can be said against me. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +Know you not<br/> +How your state stands i’ th’ world, with the whole world?<br/> +Your enemies are many, and not small; their practices<br/> +Must bear the same proportion, and not ever<br/> +The justice and the truth o’ th’ question carries<br/> +The due o’ th’ verdict with it. At what ease<br/> +Might corrupt minds procure knaves as corrupt<br/> +To swear against you? Such things have been done.<br/> +You are potently opposed, and with a malice<br/> +Of as great size. Ween you of better luck,<br/> +I mean in perjured witness, than your master,<br/> +Whose minister you are, whiles here he lived<br/> +Upon this naughty earth? Go to, go to.<br/> +You take a precipice for no leap of danger,<br/> +And woo your own destruction. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CRANMER.<br/> +God and your Majesty<br/> +Protect mine innocence, or I fall into<br/> +The trap is laid for me. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +Be of good cheer.<br/> +They shall no more prevail than we give way to.<br/> +Keep comfort to you, and this morning see<br/> +You do appear before them. If they shall chance,<br/> +In charging you with matters, to commit you,<br/> +The best persuasions to the contrary<br/> +Fail not to use, and with what vehemency<br/> +Th’ occasion shall instruct you. If entreaties<br/> +Will render you no remedy, this ring<br/> +Deliver them, and your appeal to us<br/> +There make before them. Look, the good man weeps!<br/> +He’s honest, on mine honour. God’s blest mother,<br/> +I swear he is true-hearted, and a soul<br/> +None better in my kingdom.—Get you gone,<br/> +And do as I have bid you. +</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>Exit <span class="charname">Cranmer</span>.</i>]</p> + +<p class="drama"> +He has strangled<br/> +His language in his tears. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +LOVELL.<br/> +[<i>Within</i>.] Come back! What mean you? +</p> + +<p class="scenedesc">Enter <span class="charname">Old Lady; Lovell</span> +follows.</p> + +<p class="drama"> +OLD LADY.<br/> +I’ll not come back. The tidings that I bring<br/> +Will make my boldness manners. Now, good angels<br/> +Fly o’er thy royal head and shade thy person<br/> +Under their blessed wings! +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +Now by thy looks<br/> +I guess thy message. Is the Queen delivered?<br/> +Say “Ay, and of a boy”. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +OLD LADY.<br/> +Ay, ay, my liege,<br/> +And of a lovely boy. The God of heaven<br/> +Both now and ever bless her! ’Tis a girl<br/> +Promises boys hereafter. Sir, your Queen<br/> +Desires your visitation, and to be<br/> +Acquainted with this stranger. ’Tis as like you<br/> +As cherry is to cherry. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +Lovell. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +LOVELL.<br/> +Sir? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +Give her an hundred marks. I’ll to the Queen. +</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>Exit <span class="charname">King</span>.</i>]</p> + +<p class="drama"> +OLD LADY.<br/> +An hundred marks? By this light, I’ll ha’ more.<br/> +An ordinary groom is for such payment.<br/> +I will have more or scold it out of him.<br/> +Said I for this the girl was like to him?<br/> +I’ll have more, or else unsay’t. And now,<br/> +While ’tis hot, I’ll put it to the issue. +</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>Exeunt.</i>]</p> + +<h3><a name="sceneV_15.2"></a><b>SCENE II. Lobby before the council-chamber.</b></h3> + +<p class="scenedesc">Enter <span class="charname">Cranmer</span>, Archbishop of +Canterbury.</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CRANMER.<br/> +I hope I am not too late, and yet the gentleman<br/> +That was sent to me from the Council prayed me<br/> +To make great haste. All fast? What means this? Ho!<br/> +Who waits there? +</p> + +<p class="scenedesc">Enter <span class="charname">Keeper</span>.</p> + +<p class="drama"> +Sure you know me? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KEEPER.<br/> +Yes, my lord,<br/> +But yet I cannot help you. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CRANMER.<br/> +Why? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KEEPER.<br/> +Your Grace must wait till you be called for. +</p> + +<p class="scenedesc">Enter <span class="charname"> Doctor Butts</span>.</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CRANMER.<br/> +So. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +BUTTS.<br/> +[<i>Aside</i>.] This is a piece of malice. I am glad<br/> +I came this way so happily. The King<br/> +Shall understand it presently. +</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>Exit.</i>]</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CRANMER.<br/> +[<i>Aside</i>.] ’Tis Butts,<br/> +The King’s physician. As he passed along,<br/> +How earnestly he cast his eyes upon me!<br/> +Pray heaven he sound not my disgrace. For certain,<br/> +This is of purpose laid by some that hate me—<br/> +God turn their hearts! I never sought their malice—<br/> +To quench mine honour. They would shame to make me<br/> +Wait else at door, a fellow councillor,<br/> +’Mong boys, grooms, and lackeys. But their pleasures<br/> +Must be fulfilled, and I attend with patience. +</p> + +<p class="scenedesc">Enter the <span class="charname">King</span> and +<span class="charname">Butts</span> at a window above.</p> + +<p class="drama"> +BUTTS.<br/> +I’ll show your Grace the strangest sight. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +What’s that, Butts? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +BUTTS.<br/> +I think your Highness saw this many a day. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +Body o’ me, where is it? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +BUTTS.<br/> +There, my lord:<br/> +The high promotion of his Grace of Canterbury,<br/> +Who holds his state at door, ’mongst pursuivants,<br/> +Pages, and footboys. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +Ha! ’Tis he, indeed.<br/> +Is this the honour they do one another?<br/> +’Tis well there’s one above ’em yet. I had thought<br/> +They had parted so much honesty among ’em—<br/> +At least good manners—as not thus to suffer<br/> +A man of his place, and so near our favour,<br/> +To dance attendance on their lordships’ pleasures,<br/> +And at the door too, like a post with packets.<br/> +By holy Mary, Butts, there’s knavery!<br/> +Let ’em alone, and draw the curtain close.<br/> +We shall hear more anon. +</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>Exeunt.</i>]</p> + +<p class="scenedesc">A council table brought in with chairs and stools and +placed under the state. Enter <span class="charname">Lord Chancellor</span>, +places himself at the upper end of the table on the left hand, a seat being +left void above him, as for Canterbury’s seat. <span class="charname">Duke of +Suffolk, Duke of Norfolk, Surrey, Lord Chamberlain, Gardiner</span> seat +themselves in order on each side; <span class="charname">Cromwell</span> at +lower end, as secretary.</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CHANCELLOR.<br/> +Speak to the business, master secretary.<br/> +Why are we met in council? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CROMWELL.<br/> +Please your honours,<br/> +The chief cause concerns his Grace of Canterbury. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +GARDINER.<br/> +Has he had knowledge of it? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CROMWELL.<br/> +Yes. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +NORFOLK.<br/> +Who waits there? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KEEPER.<br/> +Without, my noble lords? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +GARDINER.<br/> +Yes. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KEEPER.<br/> +My lord Archbishop,<br/> +And has done half an hour, to know your pleasures. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CHANCELLOR.<br/> +Let him come in. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KEEPER.<br/> +Your Grace may enter now. +</p> + +<p class="scenedesc"><span class="charname">Cranmer</span> approaches the +council table.</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CHANCELLOR.<br/> +My good lord Archbishop, I’m very sorry<br/> +To sit here at this present and behold<br/> +That chair stand empty. But we all are men,<br/> +In our own natures frail, and capable<br/> +Of our flesh—few are angels—out of which frailty<br/> +And want of wisdom, you that best should teach us,<br/> +Have misdemeaned yourself, and not a little,<br/> +Toward the King first, then his laws, in filling<br/> +The whole realm, by your teaching and your chaplains’—<br/> +For so we are informed—with new opinions,<br/> +Divers and dangerous, which are heresies<br/> +And, not reformed, may prove pernicious. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +GARDINER.<br/> +Which reformation must be sudden too,<br/> +My noble lords; for those that tame wild horses<br/> +Pace ’em not in their hands to make ’em gentle,<br/> +But stop their mouth with stubborn bits and spur ’em<br/> +Till they obey the manage. If we suffer,<br/> +Out of our easiness and childish pity<br/> +To one man’s honour, this contagious sickness,<br/> +Farewell, all physic. And what follows then?<br/> +Commotions, uproars, with a general taint<br/> +Of the whole state, as of late days our neighbours,<br/> +The upper Germany, can dearly witness,<br/> +Yet freshly pitied in our memories. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CRANMER.<br/> +My good lords, hitherto in all the progress<br/> +Both of my life and office, I have laboured,<br/> +And with no little study, that my teaching<br/> +And the strong course of my authority<br/> +Might go one way, and safely; and the end<br/> +Was ever to do well. Nor is there living—<br/> +I speak it with a single heart, my lords—<br/> +A man that more detests, more stirs against,<br/> +Both in his private conscience and his place,<br/> +Defacers of a public peace than I do.<br/> +Pray heaven the King may never find a heart<br/> +With less allegiance in it! Men that make<br/> +Envy and crooked malice nourishment<br/> +Dare bite the best. I do beseech your lordships<br/> +That, in this case of justice, my accusers,<br/> +Be what they will, may stand forth face to face<br/> +And freely urge against me. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SUFFOLK.<br/> +Nay, my lord,<br/> +That cannot be. You are a councillor,<br/> +And by that virtue no man dare accuse you. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +GARDINER.<br/> +My lord, because we have business of more moment,<br/> +We will be short with you. ’Tis his Highness’ pleasure<br/> +And our consent, for better trial of you,<br/> +From hence you be committed to the Tower,<br/> +Where, being but a private man again,<br/> +You shall know many dare accuse you boldly—<br/> +More than, I fear, you are provided for. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CRANMER.<br/> +Ah, my good Lord of Winchester, I thank you.<br/> +You are always my good friend. If your will pass,<br/> +I shall both find your lordship judge and juror,<br/> +You are so merciful. I see your end:<br/> +’Tis my undoing. Love and meekness, lord,<br/> +Become a churchman better than ambition.<br/> +Win straying souls with modesty again;<br/> +Cast none away. That I shall clear myself,<br/> +Lay all the weight ye can upon my patience,<br/> +I make as little doubt as you do conscience<br/> +In doing daily wrongs. I could say more,<br/> +But reverence to your calling makes me modest. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +GARDINER.<br/> +My lord, my lord, you are a sectary,<br/> +That’s the plain truth. Your painted gloss discovers,<br/> +To men that understand you, words and weakness. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CROMWELL.<br/> +My Lord of Winchester, you are a little,<br/> +By your good favour, too sharp. Men so noble,<br/> +However faulty, yet should find respect<br/> +For what they have been. ’Tis a cruelty<br/> +To load a falling man. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +GARDINER.<br/> +Good master secretary,<br/> +I cry your honour mercy: you may worst<br/> +Of all this table say so. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CROMWELL.<br/> +Why, my lord? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +GARDINER.<br/> +Do not I know you for a favourer<br/> +Of this new sect? Ye are not sound. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CROMWELL.<br/> +Not sound? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +GARDINER.<br/> +Not sound, I say. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CROMWELL.<br/> +Would you were half so honest!<br/> +Men’s prayers then would seek you, not their fears. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +GARDINER.<br/> +I shall remember this bold language. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CROMWELL.<br/> +Do.<br/> +Remember your bold life too. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CHANCELLOR.<br/> +This is too much.<br/> +Forbear, for shame, my lords. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +GARDINER.<br/> +I have done. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CROMWELL.<br/> +And I. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CHANCELLOR.<br/> +Then thus for you, my lord: it stands agreed,<br/> +I take it, by all voices, that forthwith<br/> +You be conveyed to th’ Tower a prisoner,<br/> +There to remain till the King’s further pleasure<br/> +Be known unto us. Are you all agreed, lords? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +ALL.<br/> +We are. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CRANMER.<br/> +Is there no other way of mercy<br/> +But I must needs to th’ Tower, my lords? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +GARDINER.<br/> +What other<br/> +Would you expect? You are strangely troublesome.<br/> +Let some o’ th’ guard be ready there. +</p> + +<p class="scenedesc">Enter the <span class="charname">guard</span>.</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CRANMER.<br/> +For me?<br/> +Must I go like a traitor thither? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +GARDINER.<br/> +Receive him,<br/> +And see him safe i’ th’ Tower. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CRANMER.<br/> +Stay, good my lords,<br/> +I have a little yet to say. Look there, my lords.<br/> +By virtue of that ring, I take my cause<br/> +Out of the gripes of cruel men and give it<br/> +To a most noble judge, the King my master. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CHAMBERLAIN.<br/> +This is the King’s ring. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SURREY.<br/> +’Tis no counterfeit. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SUFFOLK.<br/> +’Tis the right ring, by heaven! I told ye all,<br/> +When we first put this dangerous stone a-rolling,<br/> +’Twould fall upon ourselves. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +NORFOLK.<br/> +Do you think, my lords,<br/> +The King will suffer but the little finger<br/> +Of this man to be vexed? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CHAMBERLAIN.<br/> +’Tis now too certain.<br/> +How much more is his life in value with him?<br/> +Would I were fairly out on’t! +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CROMWELL.<br/> +My mind gave me,<br/> +In seeking tales and informations<br/> +Against this man, whose honesty the devil<br/> +And his disciples only envy at,<br/> +Ye blew the fire that burns ye. Now have at ye! +</p> + +<p class="scenedesc">Enter <span class="charname">King</span>, frowning on +them; takes his seat.</p> + +<p class="drama"> +GARDINER.<br/> +Dread sovereign, how much are we bound to heaven<br/> +In daily thanks, that gave us such a prince,<br/> +Not only good and wise, but most religious;<br/> +One that, in all obedience, makes the Church<br/> +The chief aim of his honour and, to strengthen<br/> +That holy duty out of dear respect,<br/> +His royal self in judgement comes to hear<br/> +The cause betwixt her and this great offender. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +You were ever good at sudden commendations,<br/> +Bishop of Winchester. But know I come not<br/> +To hear such flattery now, and in my presence<br/> +They are too thin and bare to hide offences.<br/> +To me you cannot reach, you play the spaniel,<br/> +And think with wagging of your tongue to win me;<br/> +But whatsoe’er thou tak’st me for, I’m sure<br/> +Thou hast a cruel nature and a bloody.<br/> +[<i>To Cranmer</i>.] Good man, sit down. Now let me see the proudest<br/> +He, that dares most, but wag his finger at thee.<br/> +By all that’s holy, he had better starve<br/> +Than but once think this place becomes thee not. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +SURREY.<br/> +May it please your Grace— +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +No, sir, it does not please me.<br/> +I had thought I had had men of some understanding<br/> +And wisdom of my Council, but I find none.<br/> +Was it discretion, lords, to let this man,<br/> +This good man—few of you deserve that title—<br/> +This honest man, wait like a lousy footboy<br/> +At chamber door? And one as great as you are?<br/> +Why, what a shame was this! Did my commission<br/> +Bid ye so far forget yourselves? I gave ye<br/> +Power as he was a councillor to try him,<br/> +Not as a groom. There’s some of ye, I see,<br/> +More out of malice than integrity,<br/> +Would try him to the utmost, had ye mean,<br/> +Which ye shall never have while I live. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CHANCELLOR.<br/> +Thus far,<br/> +My most dread sovereign, may it like your Grace<br/> +To let my tongue excuse all. What was purposed<br/> +Concerning his imprisonment was rather,<br/> +If there be faith in men, meant for his trial<br/> +And fair purgation to the world than malice,<br/> +I’m sure, in me. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +Well, well, my lords, respect him.<br/> +Take him, and use him well; he’s worthy of it.<br/> +I will say thus much for him: if a prince<br/> +May be beholding to a subject, I<br/> +Am, for his love and service, so to him.<br/> +Make me no more ado, but all embrace him.<br/> +Be friends, for shame, my lords! My Lord of Canterbury,<br/> +I have a suit which you must not deny me:<br/> +That is, a fair young maid that yet wants baptism.<br/> +You must be godfather and answer for her. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CRANMER.<br/> +The greatest monarch now alive may glory<br/> +In such an honour. How may I deserve it,<br/> +That am a poor and humble subject to you? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +Come, come, my lord, you’d spare your spoons. You shall have two noble partners +with you: the old Duchess of Norfolk and Lady Marquess Dorset. Will these +please you?<br/> +Once more, my Lord of Winchester, I charge you,<br/> +Embrace and love this man. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +GARDINER.<br/> +With a true heart<br/> +And brother-love I do it. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CRANMER.<br/> +And let heaven<br/> +Witness how dear I hold this confirmation. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +Good man, those joyful tears show thy true heart.<br/> +The common voice, I see, is verified<br/> +Of thee, which says thus: “Do my Lord of Canterbury<br/> +A shrewd turn, and he is your friend for ever.”<br/> +Come, lords, we trifle time away. I long<br/> +To have this young one made a Christian.<br/> +As I have made ye one, lords, one remain.<br/> +So I grow stronger, you more honour gain. +</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>Exeunt.</i>]</p> + +<h3><a name="sceneV_15.3"></a><b>SCENE III. The palace yard.</b></h3> + +<p class="scenedesc">Noise and tumult within. Enter <span +class="charname">Porter</span> and his <span class="charname">Man</span>.</p> + +<p class="drama"> +PORTER.<br/> +You’ll leave your noise anon, ye rascals. Do you take the court for +Parish Garden? Ye rude slaves, leave your gaping. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +ONE.<br/> +[<i>Within</i>.] Good master porter, I belong to th’ larder. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +PORTER.<br/> +Belong to th’ gallows, and be hanged, ye rogue! Is this a place to roar in? +Fetch me a dozen crab-tree staves, and strong ones. These are but switches to +’em. I’ll scratch your heads. You must be seeing christenings? Do you look for +ale and cakes here, you rude rascals? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +PORTER’S MAN.<br/> +Pray, sir, be patient. ’Tis as much impossible—<br/> +Unless we sweep ’em from the door with cannons—<br/> +To scatter ’em as ’tis to make ’em sleep<br/> +On May-day morning, which will never be.<br/> +We may as well push against Paul’s as stir ’em. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +PORTER.<br/> +How got they in, and be hanged? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +PORTER’S MAN.<br/> +Alas, I know not. How gets the tide in?<br/> +As much as one sound cudgel of four foot—<br/> +You see the poor remainder—could distribute,<br/> +I made no spare, sir. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +PORTER.<br/> +You did nothing, sir. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +PORTER’S MAN.<br/> +I am not Samson, nor Sir Guy, nor Colbrand,<br/> +To mow ’em down before me; but if I spared any<br/> +That had a head to hit, either young or old,<br/> +He or she, cuckold or cuckold-maker,<br/> +Let me ne’er hope to see a chine again—<br/> +And that I would not for a cow, God save her! +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +ONE.<br/> +[<i>Within</i>.] Do you hear, master porter? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +PORTER.<br/> +I shall be with you presently, good master puppy.—<br/> +Keep the door close, sirrah. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +PORTER’S MAN.<br/> +What would you have me do? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +PORTER.<br/> +What should you do, but knock ’em down by th’ dozens? Is this Moorfields to +muster in? Or have we some strange Indian with the great tool come to court, +the women so besiege us? Bless me, what a fry of fornication is at door! On my +Christian conscience, this one christening will beget a thousand; here will be +father, godfather, and all together. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +PORTER’S MAN.<br/> +The spoons will be the bigger, sir. There is a fellow somewhat near the door—he +should be a brazier by his face, for, o’ my conscience, twenty of the dog-days +now reign in’s nose. All that stand about him are under the line; they need no +other penance. That fire-drake did I hit three times on the head, and three +times was his nose discharged against me. He stands there, like a mortar-piece, +to blow us. There was a haberdasher’s wife of small wit near him that railed +upon me till her pinked porringer fell off her head for kindling such a +combustion in the state. I missed the meteor once and hit that woman, who cried +out “Clubs!” when I might see from far some forty truncheoners draw to her +succour, which were the hope o’ th’ Strand, where she was quartered. They fell +on; I made good my place; at length they came to th’ broomstaff to me; I defied +’em still, when suddenly a file of boys behind ’em, loose shot, delivered such +a shower of pebbles that I was fain to draw mine honour in and let ’em win the +work. The devil was amongst ’em, I think, surely. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +PORTER.<br/> +These are the youths that thunder at a playhouse and fight for bitten apples, +that no audience but the tribulation of Tower Hill or the limbs of Limehouse, +their dear brothers, are able to endure. I have some of ’em in <i>Limbo +Patrum</i>, and there they are like to dance these three days, besides the +running banquet of two beadles that is to come. +</p> + +<p class="scenedesc">Enter <span class="charname">Lord Chamberlain</span>.</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CHAMBERLAIN.<br/> +Mercy o’ me, what a multitude are here!<br/> +They grow still too. From all parts they are coming,<br/> +As if we kept a fair here! Where are these porters,<br/> +These lazy knaves? You’ve made a fine hand, fellows!<br/> +There’s a trim rabble let in. Are all these<br/> +Your faithful friends o’ th’ suburbs? We shall have<br/> +Great store of room, no doubt, left for the ladies,<br/> +When they pass back from the christening. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +PORTER.<br/> +An’t please your honour,<br/> +We are but men; and what so many may do,<br/> +Not being torn a-pieces, we have done.<br/> +An army cannot rule ’em. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CHAMBERLAIN.<br/> +As I live,<br/> +If the King blame me for’t, I’ll lay ye all<br/> +By th’ heels, and suddenly, and on your heads<br/> +Clap round fines for neglect. You’re lazy knaves,<br/> +And here ye lie baiting of bombards, when<br/> +Ye should do service. Hark, the trumpets sound!<br/> +They’re come already from the christening.<br/> +Go break among the press, and find a way out<br/> +To let the troops pass fairly, or I’ll find<br/> +A Marshalsea shall hold ye play these two months. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +PORTER.<br/> +Make way there for the Princess! +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +PORTER’S MAN.<br/> +You great fellow,<br/> +Stand close up, or I’ll make your head ache. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +PORTER.<br/> +You i’ th’ camlet, get up o’ th’ rail!<br/> +I’ll peck you o’er the pales else. +</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>Exeunt.</i>]</p> + +<h3><a name="sceneV_15.4"></a><b>SCENE IV. The palace.</b></h3> + +<p class="scenedesc">Enter Trumpets, sounding; then two <span +class="charname">Aldermen, Lord Mayor, Garter, Cranmer, Duke of Norfolk</span> +with his marshal’s staff, <span class="charname">Duke of Suffolk</span>, two +<span class="charname">Noblemen</span> bearing great standing bowls for the +christening gifts; then four Noblemen bearing a canopy, under which the <span +class="charname">Duchess of Norfolk</span>, godmother, bearing the child richly +habited in a mantle, etc., train borne by a <span class="charname">Lady</span>; +then follows the <span class="charname">Marchioness Dorset</span>, the other +godmother, and Ladies. The troop pass once about the stage, and <span +class="charname">Garter</span> speaks.</p> + +<p class="drama"> +GARTER.<br/> +Heaven, from thy endless goodness, send prosperous life, long and ever happy, +to the high and mighty Princess of England, Elizabeth. +</p> + +<p class="scenedesc">Flourish. Enter <span class="charname">King</span> and Guard.</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CRANMER.<br/> +[<i>Kneeling</i>.] And to your royal Grace and the good Queen,<br/> +My noble partners and myself thus pray<br/> +All comfort, joy, in this most gracious lady<br/> +Heaven ever laid up to make parents happy<br/> +May hourly fall upon ye! +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +Thank you, good lord Archbishop.<br/> +What is her name? +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CRANMER.<br/> +Elizabeth. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +Stand up, lord. +</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>The <span class="charname">King</span> kisses the child.</i>]</p> + +<p class="drama"> +With this kiss take my blessing: God protect thee,<br/> +Into whose hand I give thy life. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CRANMER.<br/> +Amen. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +My noble gossips, you’ve have been too prodigal.<br/> +I thank ye heartily; so shall this lady,<br/> +When she has so much English. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CRANMER.<br/> +Let me speak, sir,<br/> +For heaven now bids me; and the words I utter<br/> +Let none think flattery, for they’ll find ’em truth.<br/> +This royal infant—heaven still move about her!—<br/> +Though in her cradle, yet now promises<br/> +Upon this land a thousand thousand blessings,<br/> +Which time shall bring to ripeness. She shall be—<br/> +But few now living can behold that goodness—<br/> +A pattern to all princes living with her<br/> +And all that shall succeed. Saba was never<br/> +More covetous of wisdom and fair virtue<br/> +Than this pure soul shall be. All princely graces<br/> +That mould up such a mighty piece as this is,<br/> +With all the virtues that attend the good,<br/> +Shall still be doubled on her. Truth shall nurse her;<br/> +Holy and heavenly thoughts still counsel her.<br/> +She shall be loved and feared. Her own shall bless her;<br/> +Her foes shake like a field of beaten corn,<br/> +And hang their heads with sorrow. Good grows with her.<br/> +In her days every man shall eat in safety<br/> +Under his own vine what he plants, and sing<br/> +The merry songs of peace to all his neighbours.<br/> +God shall be truly known, and those about her<br/> +From her shall read the perfect ways of honour<br/> +And by those claim their greatness, not by blood.<br/> +Nor shall this peace sleep with her; but as when<br/> +The bird of wonder dies, the maiden phoenix,<br/> +Her ashes new create another heir<br/> +As great in admiration as herself,<br/> +So shall she leave her blessedness to one,<br/> +When heaven shall call her from this cloud of darkness,<br/> +Who from the sacred ashes of her honour<br/> +Shall star-like rise as great in fame as she was<br/> +And so stand fixed. Peace, plenty, love, truth, terror,<br/> +That were the servants to this chosen infant,<br/> +Shall then be his, and like a vine grow to him.<br/> +Wherever the bright sun of heaven shall shine,<br/> +His honour and the greatness of his name<br/> +Shall be, and make new nations. He shall flourish,<br/> +And, like a mountain cedar, reach his branches<br/> +To all the plains about him. Our children’s children<br/> +Shall see this and bless heaven. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +Thou speakest wonders. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +CRANMER.<br/> +She shall be to the happiness of England<br/> +An aged princess; many days shall see her,<br/> +And yet no day without a deed to crown it.<br/> +Would I had known no more! But she must die,<br/> +She must, the saints must have her; yet a virgin,<br/> +A most unspotted lily, shall she pass to the ground,<br/> +And all the world shall mourn her. +</p> + +<p class="drama"> +KING.<br/> +O lord Archbishop,<br/> +Thou hast made me now a man. Never before<br/> +This happy child did I get anything.<br/> +This oracle of comfort has so pleased me<br/> +That when I am in heaven I shall desire<br/> +To see what this child does and praise my Maker.<br/> +I thank ye all. To you, my good Lord Mayor,<br/> +And you, good brethren, I am much beholding.<br/> +I have received much honour by your presence,<br/> +And ye shall find me thankful. Lead the way, lords.<br/> +Ye must all see the Queen, and she must thank ye;<br/> +She will be sick else. This day, no man think<br/> +’Has business at his house, for all shall stay.<br/> +This little one shall make it holiday. +</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>Exeunt.</i>]</p> + +<h3><a name="sceneV_15.5"></a><b>Epilogue</b></h3> + +<p class="scenedesc">Enter <span class="charname">Epilogue</span>.</p> + +<p class="drama"> +EPILOGUE.<br/> +’Tis ten to one this play can never please<br/> +All that are here. Some come to take their ease,<br/> +And sleep an act or two—but those, we fear,<br/> +We’ve frighted with our trumpets; so, ’tis clear,<br/> +They’ll say ’tis naught—others, to hear the city<br/> +Abused extremely and to cry “That’s witty!”—<br/> +Which we have not done neither—that I fear<br/> +All the expected good we’re like to hear<br/> +For this play at this time is only in<br/> +The merciful construction of good women,<br/> +For such a one we showed ’em. If they smile<br/> +And say ’twill do, I know within a while<br/> +All the best men are ours; for ’tis ill hap<br/> +If they hold when their ladies bid ’em clap. +</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>Exit.</i>]</p> + </div><!--end chapter--> <div class="chapter"> |