Texts:Shakespeare/cw162318: Difference between revisions

https://aplacetostudy.org/>Robbie McClintock
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https://www.learnliberally.org/>Robbie
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{{Top Texts Shakespeare}}
<h2>THE TRAGEDY OF KING LEAR</h2>
<h2>THE TRAGEDY OF KING LEAR</h2>


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<h4>Contents</h4>
<h4>Contents</h4>
<p>
<p>
ACT&nbsp;I<br/>
 
[[#sceneI_181|Scene I.  
ACT&amp;nbsp;I<br/>
 
[[#sceneI_181|Scene I.]]
 
A Room of State in King Lear's Palace.<br/>
A Room of State in King Lear's Palace.<br/>
[[#sceneI_182|Scene II.  
 
[[#sceneI_182|Scene II.]]
 
A Hall in the Earl of Gloucester's Castle.<br/>
A Hall in the Earl of Gloucester's Castle.<br/>
[[#sceneI_183|Scene III.  
 
[[#sceneI_183|Scene III.]]
 
A Room in the Duke of Albany's Palace.<br/>
A Room in the Duke of Albany's Palace.<br/>
[[#sceneI_184|Scene IV.  
 
[[#sceneI_184|Scene IV.]]
 
A Hall in Albany's Palace.<br/>
A Hall in Albany's Palace.<br/>
[[#sceneI_185|Scene V.  
 
[[#sceneI_185|Scene V.]]
 
Court before the Duke of Albany's Palace.<br/>
Court before the Duke of Albany's Palace.<br/>
<br/>
<br/>
ACT&nbsp;II<br/>
 
[[#sceneII_181|Scene I.  
ACT&amp;nbsp;II<br/>
 
[[#sceneII_181|Scene I.]]
 
A court within the Castle of the Earl of Gloucester.<br/>
A court within the Castle of the Earl of Gloucester.<br/>
[[#sceneII_182|Scene II.  
 
[[#sceneII_182|Scene II.]]
 
Before Gloucester's Castle.<br/>
Before Gloucester's Castle.<br/>
[[#sceneII_183|Scene III.  
 
[[#sceneII_183|Scene III.]]
 
The open Country.<br/>
The open Country.<br/>
[[#sceneII_184|Scene IV.  
 
[[#sceneII_184|Scene IV.]]
 
Before Gloucester's Castle.<br/>
Before Gloucester's Castle.<br/>
<br/>
<br/>
ACT&nbsp;III<br/>
 
[[#sceneIII_181|Scene I.  
ACT&amp;nbsp;III<br/>
 
[[#sceneIII_181|Scene I.]]
 
A Heath.<br/>
A Heath.<br/>
[[#sceneIII_182|Scene II.  
 
[[#sceneIII_182|Scene II.]]
 
Another part of the heath.<br/>
Another part of the heath.<br/>
[[#sceneIII_183|Scene III.  
 
[[#sceneIII_183|Scene III.]]
 
A Room in Gloucester's Castle.<br/>
A Room in Gloucester's Castle.<br/>
[[#sceneIII_184|Scene IV.  
 
[[#sceneIII_184|Scene IV.]]
 
A part of the Heath with a Hovel.<br/>
A part of the Heath with a Hovel.<br/>
[[#sceneIII_185|Scene V.  
 
[[#sceneIII_185|Scene V.]]
 
A Room in Gloucester's Castle.<br/>
A Room in Gloucester's Castle.<br/>
[[#sceneIII_186|Scene VI.  
 
[[#sceneIII_186|Scene VI.]]
 
A Chamber in a Farmhouse adjoining the Castle.<br/>
A Chamber in a Farmhouse adjoining the Castle.<br/>
[[#sceneIII_187|Scene VII.  
 
[[#sceneIII_187|Scene VII.]]
 
A Room in Gloucester's Castle.<br/>
A Room in Gloucester's Castle.<br/>
<br/>
<br/>
ACT&nbsp;IV<br/>
 
[[#sceneIV_181|Scene I.  
ACT&amp;nbsp;IV<br/>
 
[[#sceneIV_181|Scene I.]]
 
The heath.<br/>
The heath.<br/>
[[#sceneIV_182|Scene II.  
 
[[#sceneIV_182|Scene II.]]
 
Before the Duke of Albany's Palace.<br/>
Before the Duke of Albany's Palace.<br/>
[[#sceneIV_183|Scene III.  
 
[[#sceneIV_183|Scene III.]]
 
The French camp near Dover.<br/>
The French camp near Dover.<br/>
[[#sceneIV_184|Scene IV.  
 
[[#sceneIV_184|Scene IV.]]
 
The French camp. A Tent.<br/>
The French camp. A Tent.<br/>
[[#sceneIV_185|Scene V.  
 
[[#sceneIV_185|Scene V.]]
 
A Room in Gloucester's Castle.<br/>
A Room in Gloucester's Castle.<br/>
[[#sceneIV_186|Scene VI.  
 
[[#sceneIV_186|Scene VI.]]
 
The country near Dover.<br/>
The country near Dover.<br/>
[[#sceneIV_187|Scene VII.  
 
[[#sceneIV_187|Scene VII.]]
 
A Tent in the French Camp.<br/>
A Tent in the French Camp.<br/>
<br/>
<br/>
ACT&nbsp;V<br/>
 
[[#sceneV_181|Scene I.  
ACT&amp;nbsp;V<br/>
 
[[#sceneV_181|Scene I.]]
 
The Camp of the British Forces near Dover.<br/>
The Camp of the British Forces near Dover.<br/>
[[#sceneV_182|Scene II.
A field between the two Camps.<br/>
[[#sceneV_183|Scene III.
The British Camp near Dover.<br/>


[[#sceneV_182|Scene II.]]
A field between the two Camps.<br/>
[[#sceneV_183|Scene III.]]
The British Camp near Dover.<br/>


<br/>
<br/>
<br/>
<br/>
</p>
</p>


Line 77: Line 138:


<p>LEAR, King of Britain.<br/>
<p>LEAR, King of Britain.<br/>
GONERIL, eldest daughter to Lear.<br/>
GONERIL, eldest daughter to Lear.<br/>
REGAN, second daughter to Lear.<br/>
REGAN, second daughter to Lear.<br/>
CORDELIA, youngest daughter to Lear.<br/>
CORDELIA, youngest daughter to Lear.<br/>
DUKE of ALBANY, married to Goneril.<br/>
DUKE of ALBANY, married to Goneril.<br/>
DUKE of CORNWALL, married to Regan.<br/>
DUKE of CORNWALL, married to Regan.<br/>
KING of FRANCE.<br/>
KING of FRANCE.<br/>
DUKE of BURGUNDY.<br/>
DUKE of BURGUNDY.<br/>
EARL of GLOUCESTER.<br/>
EARL of GLOUCESTER.<br/>
EDGAR, elder son to Gloucester.<br/>
EDGAR, elder son to Gloucester.<br/>
EDMUND, younger bastard son to Gloucester.<br/>
EDMUND, younger bastard son to Gloucester.<br/>
EARL of KENT.<br/>
EARL of KENT.<br/>
FOOL.<br/>
FOOL.<br/>
OSWALD, steward to Goneril.<br/>
OSWALD, steward to Goneril.<br/>
CURAN, a Courtier.<br/>
CURAN, a Courtier.<br/>
OLD MAN, Tenant to Gloucester.<br/>
OLD MAN, Tenant to Gloucester.<br/>
Physician.<br/>
Physician.<br/>
An Officer employed by Edmund.<br/>
An Officer employed by Edmund.<br/>
Gentleman, attendant on Cordelia.<br/>
Gentleman, attendant on Cordelia.<br/>
A Herald.<br/>
A Herald.<br/>
Servants to Cornwall.
Servants to Cornwall.
</p>
</p>


<p>Knights attending on the King, Officers, Messengers, Soldiers and
<p>Knights attending on the King, Officers, Messengers, Soldiers and
Attendants.</p>
Attendants.</p>


<h4><b>SCENE: Britain.</b></h4>
<h4><b>SCENE: Britain.</b></h4>


<h3 id="sceneI_181"> <b>ACT I</b></h3>
<h3 id="sceneI_181"> <b>ACT I</b></h3>
Line 113: Line 192:


<p class="scenedesc"> Enter <span class="charname">Kent, Gloucester</span> and
<p class="scenedesc"> Enter <span class="charname">Kent, Gloucester</span> and
<span class="charname">Edmund</span>.</p>
<span class="charname">Edmund</span>.</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
I thought the King had more affected the Duke of Albany than Cornwall.
I thought the King had more affected the Duke of Albany than Cornwall.
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
It did always seem so to us; but now, in the division of the kingdom, it appears
It did always seem so to us; but now, in the division of the kingdom, it appears
not which of the Dukes he values most, for qualities are so weighed that
not which of the Dukes he values most, for qualities are so weighed that
curiosity in neither can make choice of either's moiety.</p>
curiosity in neither can make choice of either's moiety.</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
Is not this your son, my lord?
Is not this your son, my lord?
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
His breeding, sir, hath been at my charge: I have so often
His breeding, sir, hath been at my charge: I have so often
blush'd to acknowledge him that now I am braz'd to't.</p>
blush'd to acknowledge him that now I am braz'd to't.</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
I cannot conceive you.
I cannot conceive you.
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
Sir, this young fellow's mother could; whereupon she grew
Sir, this young fellow's mother could; whereupon she grew
round-wombed, and had indeed, sir, a son for her cradle ere she
round-wombed, and had indeed, sir, a son for her cradle ere she
had a husband for her bed. Do you smell a fault?</p>
had a husband for her bed. Do you smell a fault?</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
I cannot wish the fault undone, the issue of it being so proper.
I cannot wish the fault undone, the issue of it being so proper.
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
But I have a son, sir, by order of law, some year elder than
But I have a son, sir, by order of law, some year elder than
this, who yet is no dearer in my account: though this knave came
this, who yet is no dearer in my account: though this knave came
something saucily to the world before he was sent for, yet was
something saucily to the world before he was sent for, yet was
his mother fair; there was good sport at his making, and the
his mother fair; there was good sport at his making, and the
whoreson must be acknowledged. Do you know this noble gentleman,
whoreson must be acknowledged. Do you know this noble gentleman,
Edmund?</p>
Edmund?</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
No, my lord.
No, my lord.
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
My Lord of Kent: remember him hereafter as my honourable friend.
My Lord of Kent: remember him hereafter as my honourable friend.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
My services to your lordship.
My services to your lordship.
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
I must love you, and sue to know you better.
I must love you, and sue to know you better.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
Sir, I shall study deserving.
Sir, I shall study deserving.
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
He hath been out nine years, and away he shall again. The King
He hath been out nine years, and away he shall again. The King
is coming.</p>
is coming.</p>


Line 180: Line 294:


<p class="scenedesc"> Enter <span class="charname">Lear, Cornwall, Albany,
<p class="scenedesc"> Enter <span class="charname">Lear, Cornwall, Albany,
Goneril, Regan, Cordelia</span> and Attendants.</p>
Goneril, Regan, Cordelia</span> and Attendants.</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Attend the lords of France and Burgundy,<br/>
Attend the lords of France and Burgundy,<br/>
Gloucester.
Gloucester.
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
I shall, my lord.
I shall, my lord.
</p>
</p>


<p class="right"> [<i>Exeunt <span class="charname">Gloucester</span> and <span
<p class="right"> [<i>Exeunt <span class="charname">Gloucester</span> and <span
class="charname">Edmund</span>.</i>]</p>
class="charname">Edmund</span>.</i>]</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Meantime we shall express our darker purpose.<br/>
Meantime we shall express our darker purpose.<br/>
Give me the map there. Know that we have divided<br/>
Give me the map there. Know that we have divided<br/>
In three our kingdom: and 'tis our fast intent<br/>
In three our kingdom: and 'tis our fast intent<br/>
To shake all cares and business from our age;<br/>
To shake all cares and business from our age;<br/>
Conferring them on younger strengths, while we<br/>
Conferring them on younger strengths, while we<br/>
Unburden'd crawl toward death. Our son of Cornwall,<br/>
Unburden'd crawl toward death. Our son of Cornwall,<br/>
And you, our no less loving son of Albany,<br/>
And you, our no less loving son of Albany,<br/>
We have this hour a constant will to publish<br/>
We have this hour a constant will to publish<br/>
Our daughters' several dowers, that future strife<br/>
Our daughters' several dowers, that future strife<br/>
May be prevented now. The princes, France and Burgundy,<br/>
May be prevented now. The princes, France and Burgundy,<br/>
Great rivals in our youngest daughter's love,<br/>
Great rivals in our youngest daughter's love,<br/>
Long in our court have made their amorous sojourn,<br/>
Long in our court have made their amorous sojourn,<br/>
And here are to be answer'd. Tell me, my daughters,&mdash;<br/>
 
And here are to be answer'd. Tell me, my daughters,&amp;mdash;<br/>
 
Since now we will divest us both of rule,<br/>
Since now we will divest us both of rule,<br/>
Interest of territory, cares of state,&mdash;<br/>
 
Interest of territory, cares of state,&amp;mdash;<br/>
 
Which of you shall we say doth love us most?<br/>
Which of you shall we say doth love us most?<br/>
That we our largest bounty may extend<br/>
That we our largest bounty may extend<br/>
Where nature doth with merit challenge.&mdash;Goneril,<br/>
 
Where nature doth with merit challenge.&amp;mdash;Goneril,<br/>
 
Our eldest born, speak first.
Our eldest born, speak first.
</p>
</p>


<p>GONERIL.<br/>
<p>GONERIL.<br/>
Sir, I love you more than word can wield the matter;<br/>
Sir, I love you more than word can wield the matter;<br/>
Dearer than eyesight, space, and liberty;<br/>
Dearer than eyesight, space, and liberty;<br/>
Beyond what can be valu'd, rich or rare;<br/>
Beyond what can be valu'd, rich or rare;<br/>
No less than life, with grace, health, beauty, honour;<br/>
No less than life, with grace, health, beauty, honour;<br/>
As much as child e'er lov'd, or father found;<br/>
As much as child e'er lov'd, or father found;<br/>
A love that makes breath poor and speech unable;<br/>
A love that makes breath poor and speech unable;<br/>
Beyond all manner of so much I love you.
Beyond all manner of so much I love you.
</p>
</p>


<p>CORDELIA.<br/>
<p>CORDELIA.<br/>
[<i>Aside.</i>] What shall Cordelia speak? Love, and be silent.
[<i>Aside.</i>] What shall Cordelia speak? Love, and be silent.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Of all these bounds, even from this line to this,<br/>
Of all these bounds, even from this line to this,<br/>
With shadowy forests and with champains rich'd,<br/>
With shadowy forests and with champains rich'd,<br/>
With plenteous rivers and wide-skirted meads,<br/>
With plenteous rivers and wide-skirted meads,<br/>
We make thee lady: to thine and Albany's issue<br/>
We make thee lady: to thine and Albany's issue<br/>
Be this perpetual.&mdash;What says our second daughter,<br/>
 
Be this perpetual.&amp;mdash;What says our second daughter,<br/>
 
Our dearest Regan, wife of Cornwall? Speak.
Our dearest Regan, wife of Cornwall? Speak.
</p>
</p>


<p>REGAN.<br/>
<p>REGAN.<br/>
Sir, I am made of the self mettle as my sister,<br/>
Sir, I am made of the self mettle as my sister,<br/>
And prize me at her worth. In my true heart<br/>
And prize me at her worth. In my true heart<br/>
I find she names my very deed of love;<br/>
I find she names my very deed of love;<br/>
Only she comes too short, that I profess<br/>
Only she comes too short, that I profess<br/>
Myself an enemy to all other joys<br/>
Myself an enemy to all other joys<br/>
Which the most precious square of sense possesses,<br/>
Which the most precious square of sense possesses,<br/>
And find I am alone felicitate<br/>
And find I am alone felicitate<br/>
In your dear highness' love.
In your dear highness' love.
</p>
</p>


<p>CORDELIA.<br/>
<p>CORDELIA.<br/>
[<i>Aside.</i>] Then poor Cordelia,<br/>
[<i>Aside.</i>] Then poor Cordelia,<br/>
And yet not so; since, I am sure, my love's<br/>
And yet not so; since, I am sure, my love's<br/>
More ponderous than my tongue.
More ponderous than my tongue.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
To thee and thine hereditary ever<br/>
To thee and thine hereditary ever<br/>
Remain this ample third of our fair kingdom;<br/>
Remain this ample third of our fair kingdom;<br/>
No less in space, validity, and pleasure<br/>
No less in space, validity, and pleasure<br/>
Than that conferr'd on Goneril.&mdash;Now, our joy,<br/>
 
Than that conferr'd on Goneril.&amp;mdash;Now, our joy,<br/>
 
Although the last and least; to whose young love<br/>
Although the last and least; to whose young love<br/>
The vines of France and milk of Burgundy<br/>
The vines of France and milk of Burgundy<br/>
Strive to be interess'd; what can you say to draw<br/>
Strive to be interess'd; what can you say to draw<br/>
A third more opulent than your sisters? Speak.
A third more opulent than your sisters? Speak.
</p>
</p>


<p>CORDELIA.<br/>
<p>CORDELIA.<br/>
Nothing, my lord.
Nothing, my lord.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Nothing?
Nothing?
</p>
</p>


<p>CORDELIA.<br/>
<p>CORDELIA.<br/>
Nothing.
Nothing.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Nothing will come of nothing: speak again.
Nothing will come of nothing: speak again.
</p>
</p>


<p>CORDELIA.<br/>
<p>CORDELIA.<br/>
Unhappy that I am, I cannot heave<br/>
Unhappy that I am, I cannot heave<br/>
My heart into my mouth: I love your majesty<br/>
My heart into my mouth: I love your majesty<br/>
According to my bond; no more nor less.
According to my bond; no more nor less.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
How, how, Cordelia? Mend your speech a little,<br/>
How, how, Cordelia? Mend your speech a little,<br/>
Lest you may mar your fortunes.
Lest you may mar your fortunes.
</p>
</p>


<p>CORDELIA.<br/>
<p>CORDELIA.<br/>
Good my lord,<br/>
Good my lord,<br/>
You have begot me, bred me, lov'd me: I<br/>
You have begot me, bred me, lov'd me: I<br/>
Return those duties back as are right fit,<br/>
Return those duties back as are right fit,<br/>
Obey you, love you, and most honour you.<br/>
Obey you, love you, and most honour you.<br/>
Why have my sisters husbands if they say<br/>
Why have my sisters husbands if they say<br/>
They love you all? Haply, when I shall wed,<br/>
They love you all? Haply, when I shall wed,<br/>
That lord whose hand must take my plight shall carry<br/>
That lord whose hand must take my plight shall carry<br/>
Half my love with him, half my care and duty:<br/>
Half my love with him, half my care and duty:<br/>
Sure I shall never marry like my sisters,<br/>
Sure I shall never marry like my sisters,<br/>
To love my father all.
To love my father all.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
But goes thy heart with this?
But goes thy heart with this?
</p>
</p>


<p>CORDELIA.<br/>
<p>CORDELIA.<br/>
Ay, my good lord.
Ay, my good lord.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
So young, and so untender?
So young, and so untender?
</p>
</p>


<p>CORDELIA.<br/>
<p>CORDELIA.<br/>
So young, my lord, and true.
So young, my lord, and true.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Let it be so, thy truth then be thy dower:<br/>
Let it be so, thy truth then be thy dower:<br/>
For, by the sacred radiance of the sun,<br/>
For, by the sacred radiance of the sun,<br/>
The mysteries of Hecate and the night;<br/>
The mysteries of Hecate and the night;<br/>
By all the operation of the orbs,<br/>
By all the operation of the orbs,<br/>
From whom we do exist and cease to be;<br/>
From whom we do exist and cease to be;<br/>
Here I disclaim all my paternal care,<br/>
Here I disclaim all my paternal care,<br/>
Propinquity and property of blood,<br/>
Propinquity and property of blood,<br/>
And as a stranger to my heart and me<br/>
And as a stranger to my heart and me<br/>
Hold thee from this for ever. The barbarous Scythian,<br/>
Hold thee from this for ever. The barbarous Scythian,<br/>
Or he that makes his generation messes<br/>
Or he that makes his generation messes<br/>
To gorge his appetite, shall to my bosom<br/>
To gorge his appetite, shall to my bosom<br/>
Be as well neighbour'd, pitied, and reliev'd,<br/>
Be as well neighbour'd, pitied, and reliev'd,<br/>
As thou my sometime daughter.
As thou my sometime daughter.
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
Good my liege,&mdash;
 
</p>
Good my liege,&amp;mdash;
 
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Peace, Kent!<br/>
Peace, Kent!<br/>
Come not between the dragon and his wrath.<br/>
Come not between the dragon and his wrath.<br/>
I lov'd her most, and thought to set my rest<br/>
I lov'd her most, and thought to set my rest<br/>
On her kind nursery. [<i>To Cordelia.</i>] Hence and avoid my sight!<br/>
On her kind nursery. [<i>To Cordelia.</i>] Hence and avoid my sight!<br/>
So be my grave my peace, as here I give<br/>
So be my grave my peace, as here I give<br/>
Her father's heart from her! Call France. Who stirs?<br/>
Her father's heart from her! Call France. Who stirs?<br/>
Call Burgundy! Cornwall and Albany,<br/>
Call Burgundy! Cornwall and Albany,<br/>
With my two daughters' dowers digest this third:<br/>
With my two daughters' dowers digest this third:<br/>
Let pride, which she calls plainness, marry her.<br/>
Let pride, which she calls plainness, marry her.<br/>
I do invest you jointly with my power,<br/>
I do invest you jointly with my power,<br/>
Pre-eminence, and all the large effects<br/>
Pre-eminence, and all the large effects<br/>
That troop with majesty. Ourself, by monthly course,<br/>
That troop with majesty. Ourself, by monthly course,<br/>
With reservation of an hundred knights,<br/>
With reservation of an hundred knights,<br/>
By you to be sustain'd, shall our abode<br/>
By you to be sustain'd, shall our abode<br/>
Make with you by due turn. Only we shall retain<br/>
Make with you by due turn. Only we shall retain<br/>
The name, and all the addition to a king; the sway,<br/>
The name, and all the addition to a king; the sway,<br/>
Revenue, execution of the rest,<br/>
Revenue, execution of the rest,<br/>
Beloved sons, be yours; which to confirm,<br/>
Beloved sons, be yours; which to confirm,<br/>
This coronet part between you.
This coronet part between you.
</p>
</p>
<p class="right"> [<i>Giving the crown.</i>]</p>
<p class="right"> [<i>Giving the crown.</i>]</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
Royal Lear,<br/>
Royal Lear,<br/>
Whom I have ever honour'd as my king,<br/>
Whom I have ever honour'd as my king,<br/>
Lov'd as my father, as my master follow'd,<br/>
Lov'd as my father, as my master follow'd,<br/>
As my great patron thought on in my prayers.&mdash;
 
As my great patron thought on in my prayers.&amp;mdash;
 
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
The bow is bent and drawn; make from the shaft.
The bow is bent and drawn; make from the shaft.
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
Let it fall rather, though the fork invade<br/>
Let it fall rather, though the fork invade<br/>
The region of my heart: be Kent unmannerly<br/>
The region of my heart: be Kent unmannerly<br/>
When Lear is mad. What wouldst thou do, old man?<br/>
When Lear is mad. What wouldst thou do, old man?<br/>
Think'st thou that duty shall have dread to speak,<br/>
Think'st thou that duty shall have dread to speak,<br/>
When power to flattery bows? To plainness honour's bound<br/>
When power to flattery bows? To plainness honour's bound<br/>
When majesty falls to folly. Reverse thy state;<br/>
When majesty falls to folly. Reverse thy state;<br/>
And in thy best consideration check<br/>
And in thy best consideration check<br/>
This hideous rashness: answer my life my judgement,<br/>
This hideous rashness: answer my life my judgement,<br/>
Thy youngest daughter does not love thee least;<br/>
Thy youngest daughter does not love thee least;<br/>
Nor are those empty-hearted, whose low sounds<br/>
Nor are those empty-hearted, whose low sounds<br/>
Reverb no hollowness.
Reverb no hollowness.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Kent, on thy life, no more.
Kent, on thy life, no more.
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
My life I never held but as a pawn<br/>
My life I never held but as a pawn<br/>
To wage against thine enemies; ne'er fear to lose it,<br/>
To wage against thine enemies; ne'er fear to lose it,<br/>
Thy safety being the motive.
Thy safety being the motive.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Out of my sight!
Out of my sight!
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
See better, Lear; and let me still remain<br/>
See better, Lear; and let me still remain<br/>
The true blank of thine eye.
The true blank of thine eye.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Now, by Apollo,&mdash;
 
Now, by Apollo,&amp;mdash;
 
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
Now by Apollo, King,<br/>
Now by Apollo, King,<br/>
Thou swear'st thy gods in vain.
Thou swear'st thy gods in vain.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
O vassal! Miscreant!
O vassal! Miscreant!
</p>
</p>


Line 426: Line 714:


<p>ALBANY and CORNWALL.<br/>
<p>ALBANY and CORNWALL.<br/>
Dear sir, forbear!
Dear sir, forbear!
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
Kill thy physician, and the fee bestow<br/>
Kill thy physician, and the fee bestow<br/>
Upon the foul disease. Revoke thy gift,<br/>
Upon the foul disease. Revoke thy gift,<br/>
Or, whilst I can vent clamour from my throat,<br/>
Or, whilst I can vent clamour from my throat,<br/>
I'll tell thee thou dost evil.
I'll tell thee thou dost evil.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Hear me, recreant! on thine allegiance, hear me!<br/>
Hear me, recreant! on thine allegiance, hear me!<br/>
Since thou hast sought to make us break our vows,<br/>
Since thou hast sought to make us break our vows,<br/>
Which we durst never yet, and with strain'd pride<br/>
Which we durst never yet, and with strain'd pride<br/>
To come betwixt our sentences and our power,<br/>
To come betwixt our sentences and our power,<br/>
Which nor our nature, nor our place can bear,<br/>
Which nor our nature, nor our place can bear,<br/>
Our potency made good, take thy reward.<br/>
Our potency made good, take thy reward.<br/>
Five days we do allot thee for provision,<br/>
Five days we do allot thee for provision,<br/>
To shield thee from disasters of the world;<br/>
To shield thee from disasters of the world;<br/>
And on the sixth to turn thy hated back<br/>
And on the sixth to turn thy hated back<br/>
Upon our kingdom: if, on the next day following,<br/>
Upon our kingdom: if, on the next day following,<br/>
Thy banish'd trunk be found in our dominions,<br/>
Thy banish'd trunk be found in our dominions,<br/>
The moment is thy death. Away! By Jupiter,<br/>
The moment is thy death. Away! By Jupiter,<br/>
This shall not be revok'd.
This shall not be revok'd.
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
Fare thee well, King: sith thus thou wilt appear,<br/>
Fare thee well, King: sith thus thou wilt appear,<br/>
Freedom lives hence, and banishment is here.<br/>
Freedom lives hence, and banishment is here.<br/>
[<i>To Cordelia.</i>] The gods to their dear shelter take thee, maid,<br/>
[<i>To Cordelia.</i>] The gods to their dear shelter take thee, maid,<br/>
That justly think'st and hast most rightly said!<br/>
That justly think'st and hast most rightly said!<br/>
[<i>To Goneril and Regan.</i>] And your large speeches may your deeds
[<i>To Goneril and Regan.</i>] And your large speeches may your deeds
approve,<br/>
approve,<br/>
That good effects may spring from words of love.<br/>
That good effects may spring from words of love.<br/>
Thus Kent, O princes, bids you all adieu;<br/>
Thus Kent, O princes, bids you all adieu;<br/>
He'll shape his old course in a country new.
He'll shape his old course in a country new.
</p>
</p>


Line 467: Line 786:


<p class="scenedesc"> Flourish. Re-enter <span
<p class="scenedesc"> Flourish. Re-enter <span
class="charname">Gloucester,</span> with <span class="charname">France,
class="charname">Gloucester,</span> with <span class="charname">France,
Burgundy</span> and Attendants.</p>
Burgundy</span> and Attendants.</p>


<p>CORDELIA.<br/>
<p>CORDELIA.<br/>
Here's France and Burgundy, my noble lord.
Here's France and Burgundy, my noble lord.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
My Lord of Burgundy,<br/>
My Lord of Burgundy,<br/>
We first address toward you, who with this king<br/>
We first address toward you, who with this king<br/>
Hath rivall'd for our daughter: what in the least<br/>
Hath rivall'd for our daughter: what in the least<br/>
Will you require in present dower with her,<br/>
Will you require in present dower with her,<br/>
Or cease your quest of love?
Or cease your quest of love?
</p>
</p>


<p>BURGUNDY.<br/>
<p>BURGUNDY.<br/>
Most royal majesty,<br/>
Most royal majesty,<br/>
I crave no more than hath your highness offer'd,<br/>
I crave no more than hath your highness offer'd,<br/>
Nor will you tender less?
Nor will you tender less?
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Right noble Burgundy,<br/>
Right noble Burgundy,<br/>
When she was dear to us, we did hold her so;<br/>
When she was dear to us, we did hold her so;<br/>
But now her price is fall'n. Sir, there she stands:<br/>
But now her price is fall'n. Sir, there she stands:<br/>
If aught within that little-seeming substance,<br/>
If aught within that little-seeming substance,<br/>
Or all of it, with our displeasure piec'd,<br/>
Or all of it, with our displeasure piec'd,<br/>
And nothing more, may fitly like your grace,<br/>
And nothing more, may fitly like your grace,<br/>
She's there, and she is yours.
She's there, and she is yours.
</p>
</p>


<p>BURGUNDY.<br/>
<p>BURGUNDY.<br/>
I know no answer.
I know no answer.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Will you, with those infirmities she owes,<br/>
Will you, with those infirmities she owes,<br/>
Unfriended, new adopted to our hate,<br/>
Unfriended, new adopted to our hate,<br/>
Dower'd with our curse, and stranger'd with our oath,<br/>
Dower'd with our curse, and stranger'd with our oath,<br/>
Take her or leave her?
Take her or leave her?
</p>
</p>


<p>BURGUNDY.<br/>
<p>BURGUNDY.<br/>
Pardon me, royal sir;<br/>
Pardon me, royal sir;<br/>
Election makes not up in such conditions.
Election makes not up in such conditions.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Then leave her, sir; for, by the power that made me,<br/>
Then leave her, sir; for, by the power that made me,<br/>
I tell you all her wealth. [<i>To France</i>] For you, great king,<br/>
I tell you all her wealth. [<i>To France</i>] For you, great king,<br/>
I would not from your love make such a stray<br/>
I would not from your love make such a stray<br/>
To match you where I hate; therefore beseech you<br/>
To match you where I hate; therefore beseech you<br/>
T'avert your liking a more worthier way<br/>
T'avert your liking a more worthier way<br/>
Than on a wretch whom nature is asham'd<br/>
Than on a wretch whom nature is asham'd<br/>
Almost t'acknowledge hers.
Almost t'acknowledge hers.
</p>
</p>


<p>FRANCE.<br/>
<p>FRANCE.<br/>
This is most strange,<br/>
This is most strange,<br/>
That she, who even but now was your best object,<br/>
That she, who even but now was your best object,<br/>
The argument of your praise, balm of your age,<br/>
The argument of your praise, balm of your age,<br/>
The best, the dearest, should in this trice of time<br/>
The best, the dearest, should in this trice of time<br/>
Commit a thing so monstrous, to dismantle<br/>
Commit a thing so monstrous, to dismantle<br/>
So many folds of favour. Sure her offence<br/>
So many folds of favour. Sure her offence<br/>
Must be of such unnatural degree<br/>
Must be of such unnatural degree<br/>
That monsters it, or your fore-vouch'd affection<br/>
That monsters it, or your fore-vouch'd affection<br/>
Fall into taint; which to believe of her<br/>
Fall into taint; which to believe of her<br/>
Must be a faith that reason without miracle<br/>
Must be a faith that reason without miracle<br/>
Should never plant in me.
Should never plant in me.
</p>
</p>


<p>CORDELIA.<br/>
<p>CORDELIA.<br/>
I yet beseech your majesty,<br/>
I yet beseech your majesty,<br/>
If for I want that glib and oily art<br/>
If for I want that glib and oily art<br/>
To speak and purpose not; since what I well intend,<br/>
To speak and purpose not; since what I well intend,<br/>
I'll do't before I speak,&mdash;that you make known<br/>
 
I'll do't before I speak,&amp;mdash;that you make known<br/>
 
It is no vicious blot, murder, or foulness,<br/>
It is no vicious blot, murder, or foulness,<br/>
No unchaste action or dishonour'd step,<br/>
No unchaste action or dishonour'd step,<br/>
That hath depriv'd me of your grace and favour;<br/>
That hath depriv'd me of your grace and favour;<br/>
But even for want of that for which I am richer,<br/>
But even for want of that for which I am richer,<br/>
A still soliciting eye, and such a tongue<br/>
A still soliciting eye, and such a tongue<br/>
As I am glad I have not, though not to have it<br/>
As I am glad I have not, though not to have it<br/>
Hath lost me in your liking.
Hath lost me in your liking.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Better thou hadst<br/>
Better thou hadst<br/>
Not been born than not to have pleas'd me better.
Not been born than not to have pleas'd me better.
</p>
</p>


<p>FRANCE.<br/>
<p>FRANCE.<br/>
Is it but this?&mdash;a tardiness in nature<br/>
 
Is it but this?&amp;mdash;a tardiness in nature<br/>
 
Which often leaves the history unspoke<br/>
Which often leaves the history unspoke<br/>
That it intends to do? My lord of Burgundy,<br/>
That it intends to do? My lord of Burgundy,<br/>
What say you to the lady? Love's not love<br/>
What say you to the lady? Love's not love<br/>
When it is mingled with regards that stands<br/>
When it is mingled with regards that stands<br/>
Aloof from the entire point. Will you have her?<br/>
Aloof from the entire point. Will you have her?<br/>
She is herself a dowry.
She is herself a dowry.
</p>
</p>


<p>BURGUNDY.<br/>
<p>BURGUNDY.<br/>
Royal King,<br/>
Royal King,<br/>
Give but that portion which yourself propos'd,<br/>
Give but that portion which yourself propos'd,<br/>
And here I take Cordelia by the hand,<br/>
And here I take Cordelia by the hand,<br/>
Duchess of Burgundy.
Duchess of Burgundy.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Nothing: I have sworn; I am firm.
Nothing: I have sworn; I am firm.
</p>
</p>


<p>BURGUNDY.<br/>
<p>BURGUNDY.<br/>
I am sorry, then, you have so lost a father<br/>
I am sorry, then, you have so lost a father<br/>
That you must lose a husband.
That you must lose a husband.
</p>
</p>


<p>CORDELIA.<br/>
<p>CORDELIA.<br/>
Peace be with Burgundy!<br/>
Peace be with Burgundy!<br/>
Since that respects of fortunes are his love,<br/>
Since that respects of fortunes are his love,<br/>
I shall not be his wife.
I shall not be his wife.
</p>
</p>


<p>FRANCE.<br/>
<p>FRANCE.<br/>
Fairest Cordelia, that art most rich, being poor;<br/>
Fairest Cordelia, that art most rich, being poor;<br/>
Most choice forsaken; and most lov'd, despis'd!<br/>
Most choice forsaken; and most lov'd, despis'd!<br/>
Thee and thy virtues here I seize upon:<br/>
Thee and thy virtues here I seize upon:<br/>
Be it lawful, I take up what's cast away.<br/>
Be it lawful, I take up what's cast away.<br/>
Gods, gods! 'Tis strange that from their cold'st neglect<br/>
Gods, gods! 'Tis strange that from their cold'st neglect<br/>
My love should kindle to inflam'd respect.<br/>
My love should kindle to inflam'd respect.<br/>
Thy dowerless daughter, King, thrown to my chance,<br/>
Thy dowerless daughter, King, thrown to my chance,<br/>
Is queen of us, of ours, and our fair France:<br/>
Is queen of us, of ours, and our fair France:<br/>
Not all the dukes of waterish Burgundy<br/>
Not all the dukes of waterish Burgundy<br/>
Can buy this unpriz'd precious maid of me.<br/>
Can buy this unpriz'd precious maid of me.<br/>
Bid them farewell, Cordelia, though unkind:<br/>
Bid them farewell, Cordelia, though unkind:<br/>
Thou losest here, a better where to find.
Thou losest here, a better where to find.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Thou hast her, France: let her be thine; for we<br/>
Thou hast her, France: let her be thine; for we<br/>
Have no such daughter, nor shall ever see<br/>
Have no such daughter, nor shall ever see<br/>
That face of hers again. Therefore be gone<br/>
That face of hers again. Therefore be gone<br/>
Without our grace, our love, our benison.<br/>
Without our grace, our love, our benison.<br/>
Come, noble Burgundy.
Come, noble Burgundy.
</p>
</p>


<p class="right"> [<i>Flourish. Exeunt <span class="charname">Lear, Burgundy,
<p class="right"> [<i>Flourish. Exeunt <span class="charname">Lear, Burgundy,
Cornwall, Albany, Gloucester</span> and Attendants.</i>]</p>
Cornwall, Albany, Gloucester</span> and Attendants.</i>]</p>


<p>FRANCE.<br/>
<p>FRANCE.<br/>
Bid farewell to your sisters.
Bid farewell to your sisters.
</p>
</p>


<p>CORDELIA.<br/>
<p>CORDELIA.<br/>
The jewels of our father, with wash'd eyes<br/>
The jewels of our father, with wash'd eyes<br/>
Cordelia leaves you: I know you what you are;<br/>
Cordelia leaves you: I know you what you are;<br/>
And like a sister am most loath to call<br/>
And like a sister am most loath to call<br/>
Your faults as they are nam'd. Love well our father:<br/>
Your faults as they are nam'd. Love well our father:<br/>
To your professed bosoms I commit him:<br/>
To your professed bosoms I commit him:<br/>
But yet, alas, stood I within his grace,<br/>
But yet, alas, stood I within his grace,<br/>
I would prefer him to a better place.<br/>
I would prefer him to a better place.<br/>
So farewell to you both.
So farewell to you both.
</p>
</p>


<p>REGAN.<br/>
<p>REGAN.<br/>
Prescribe not us our duties.
Prescribe not us our duties.
</p>
</p>


<p>GONERIL.<br/>
<p>GONERIL.<br/>
Let your study<br/>
Let your study<br/>
Be to content your lord, who hath receiv'd you<br/>
Be to content your lord, who hath receiv'd you<br/>
At fortune's alms. You have obedience scanted,<br/>
At fortune's alms. You have obedience scanted,<br/>
And well are worth the want that you have wanted.
And well are worth the want that you have wanted.
</p>
</p>


<p>CORDELIA.<br/>
<p>CORDELIA.<br/>
Time shall unfold what plighted cunning hides:<br/>
Time shall unfold what plighted cunning hides:<br/>
Who covers faults, at last shame derides.<br/>
Who covers faults, at last shame derides.<br/>
Well may you prosper.
Well may you prosper.
</p>
</p>


<p>FRANCE.<br/>
<p>FRANCE.<br/>
Come, my fair Cordelia.
Come, my fair Cordelia.
</p>
</p>


<p class="right"> [<i>Exeunt <span class="charname">France</span> and <span
<p class="right"> [<i>Exeunt <span class="charname">France</span> and <span
class="charname">Cordelia</span>.</i>]</p>
class="charname">Cordelia</span>.</i>]</p>


<p>GONERIL.<br/>
<p>GONERIL.<br/>
Sister, it is not little I have to say of what most nearly
Sister, it is not little I have to say of what most nearly
appertains to us both. I think our father will hence tonight.</p>
appertains to us both. I think our father will hence tonight.</p>


<p>REGAN.<br/>
<p>REGAN.<br/>
That's most certain, and with you; next month with us.
That's most certain, and with you; next month with us.
</p>
</p>


<p>GONERIL.<br/>
<p>GONERIL.<br/>
You see how full of changes his age is; the observation we
You see how full of changes his age is; the observation we
have made of it hath not been little: he always loved our
have made of it hath not been little: he always loved our
sister most; and with what poor judgement he hath now cast her
sister most; and with what poor judgement he hath now cast her
off appears too grossly.</p>
off appears too grossly.</p>


<p>REGAN.<br/>
<p>REGAN.<br/>
'Tis the infirmity of his age: yet he hath ever but slenderly
'Tis the infirmity of his age: yet he hath ever but slenderly
known himself.</p>
known himself.</p>


<p>GONERIL.<br/>
<p>GONERIL.<br/>
The best and soundest of his time hath been but rash; then must
The best and soundest of his time hath been but rash; then must
we look from his age to receive not alone the imperfections of
we look from his age to receive not alone the imperfections of
long-engrafted condition, but therewithal the unruly waywardness
long-engrafted condition, but therewithal the unruly waywardness
that infirm and choleric years bring with them.</p>
that infirm and choleric years bring with them.</p>


<p>REGAN.<br/>
<p>REGAN.<br/>
Such unconstant starts are we like to have from him as this of Kent's
Such unconstant starts are we like to have from him as this of Kent's
banishment.
banishment.
</p>
</p>


<p>GONERIL.<br/>
<p>GONERIL.<br/>
There is further compliment of leave-taking between France and
There is further compliment of leave-taking between France and
him. Pray you let us hit together: if our father carry authority
him. Pray you let us hit together: if our father carry authority
with such disposition as he bears, this last surrender of his
with such disposition as he bears, this last surrender of his
will but offend us.</p>
will but offend us.</p>


<p>REGAN.<br/>
<p>REGAN.<br/>
We shall further think of it.
We shall further think of it.
</p>
</p>


<p>GONERIL.<br/>
<p>GONERIL.<br/>
We must do something, and i' th' heat.
We must do something, and i' th' heat.
</p>
</p>


Line 702: Line 1,180:


<p class="scenedesc"> Enter <span class="charname">Edmund</span> with a
<p class="scenedesc"> Enter <span class="charname">Edmund</span> with a
letter.</p>
letter.</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
Thou, Nature, art my goddess; to thy law<br/>
Thou, Nature, art my goddess; to thy law<br/>
My services are bound. Wherefore should I<br/>
My services are bound. Wherefore should I<br/>
Stand in the plague of custom, and permit<br/>
Stand in the plague of custom, and permit<br/>
The curiosity of nations to deprive me?<br/>
The curiosity of nations to deprive me?<br/>
For that I am some twelve or fourteen moonshines<br/>
For that I am some twelve or fourteen moonshines<br/>
Lag of a brother? Why bastard? Wherefore base?<br/>
Lag of a brother? Why bastard? Wherefore base?<br/>
When my dimensions are as well compact,<br/>
When my dimensions are as well compact,<br/>
My mind as generous, and my shape as true<br/>
My mind as generous, and my shape as true<br/>
As honest madam's issue? Why brand they us<br/>
As honest madam's issue? Why brand they us<br/>
With base? With baseness? bastardy? Base, base?<br/>
With base? With baseness? bastardy? Base, base?<br/>
Who, in the lusty stealth of nature, take<br/>
Who, in the lusty stealth of nature, take<br/>
More composition and fierce quality<br/>
More composition and fierce quality<br/>
Than doth within a dull stale tired bed<br/>
Than doth within a dull stale tired bed<br/>
Go to the creating a whole tribe of fops<br/>
Go to the creating a whole tribe of fops<br/>
Got 'tween asleep and wake? Well then,<br/>
Got 'tween asleep and wake? Well then,<br/>
Legitimate Edgar, I must have your land:<br/>
Legitimate Edgar, I must have your land:<br/>
Our father's love is to the bastard Edmund<br/>
Our father's love is to the bastard Edmund<br/>
As to the legitimate: fine word: legitimate!<br/>
As to the legitimate: fine word: legitimate!<br/>
Well, my legitimate, if this letter speed,<br/>
Well, my legitimate, if this letter speed,<br/>
And my invention thrive, Edmund the base<br/>
And my invention thrive, Edmund the base<br/>
Shall top the legitimate. I grow, I prosper.<br/>
Shall top the legitimate. I grow, I prosper.<br/>
Now, gods, stand up for bastards!
Now, gods, stand up for bastards!
</p>
</p>


Line 732: Line 1,234:


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
Kent banish'd thus! and France in choler parted!<br/>
Kent banish'd thus! and France in choler parted!<br/>
And the King gone tonight! Prescrib'd his pow'r!<br/>
And the King gone tonight! Prescrib'd his pow'r!<br/>
Confin'd to exhibition! All this done<br/>
Confin'd to exhibition! All this done<br/>
Upon the gad!&mdash;Edmund, how now! What news?
 
Upon the gad!&amp;mdash;Edmund, how now! What news?
 
</p>
</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
So please your lordship, none.
So please your lordship, none.
</p>
</p>


Line 745: Line 1,254:


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
Why so earnestly seek you to put up that letter?
Why so earnestly seek you to put up that letter?
</p>
</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
I know no news, my lord.
I know no news, my lord.
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
What paper were you reading?
What paper were you reading?
</p>
</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
Nothing, my lord.
Nothing, my lord.
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
No? What needed then that terrible dispatch of it into your pocket? The
No? What needed then that terrible dispatch of it into your pocket? The
quality of nothing hath not such need to hide itself. Let's see. Come, if
quality of nothing hath not such need to hide itself. Let's see. Come, if
it be nothing, I shall not need spectacles.
it be nothing, I shall not need spectacles.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
I beseech you, sir, pardon me. It is a letter from my brother that I have not
I beseech you, sir, pardon me. It is a letter from my brother that I have not
all o'er-read; and for so much as I have perus'd, I find it not fit
all o'er-read; and for so much as I have perus'd, I find it not fit
for your o'er-looking.
for your o'er-looking.
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
Give me the letter, sir.
Give me the letter, sir.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
I shall offend, either to detain or give it. The contents, as in
I shall offend, either to detain or give it. The contents, as in
part I understand them, are to blame.</p>
part I understand them, are to blame.</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
Let's see, let's see!
Let's see, let's see!
</p>
</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
I hope, for my brother's justification, he wrote this but as an
I hope, for my brother's justification, he wrote this but as an
essay, or taste of my virtue.</p>
essay, or taste of my virtue.</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
[<i>Reads.</i>] 'This policy and reverence of age makes the world
[<i>Reads.</i>] 'This policy and reverence of age makes the world
bitter to the best of our times; keeps our fortunes from us
bitter to the best of our times; keeps our fortunes from us
till our oldness cannot relish them. I begin to find an idle
till our oldness cannot relish them. I begin to find an idle
and fond bondage in the oppression of aged tyranny; who sways
and fond bondage in the oppression of aged tyranny; who sways
not as it hath power, but as it is suffered. Come to me, that
not as it hath power, but as it is suffered. Come to me, that
of this I may speak more. If our father would sleep till I
of this I may speak more. If our father would sleep till I
waked him, you should enjoy half his revenue for ever, and live
waked him, you should enjoy half his revenue for ever, and live
the beloved of your brother EDGAR.'<br/>
the beloved of your brother EDGAR.'<br/>
Hum! Conspiracy? 'Sleep till I wake him, you should enjoy half
Hum! Conspiracy? 'Sleep till I wake him, you should enjoy half
his revenue.'&mdash;My son Edgar! Had he a hand to write this? A heart
 
his revenue.'&amp;mdash;My son Edgar! Had he a hand to write this? A heart
 
and brain to breed it in? When came this to you? Who brought it?</p>
and brain to breed it in? When came this to you? Who brought it?</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
It was not brought me, my lord, there's the cunning of it. I
It was not brought me, my lord, there's the cunning of it. I
found it thrown in at the casement of my closet.</p>
found it thrown in at the casement of my closet.</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
You know the character to be your brother's?
You know the character to be your brother's?
</p>
</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
If the matter were good, my lord, I durst swear it were his; but
If the matter were good, my lord, I durst swear it were his; but
in respect of that, I would fain think it were not.</p>
in respect of that, I would fain think it were not.</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
It is his.
It is his.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
It is his hand, my lord; but I hope his heart is not in the
It is his hand, my lord; but I hope his heart is not in the
contents.</p>
contents.</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
Has he never before sounded you in this business?
Has he never before sounded you in this business?
</p>
</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
Never, my lord. But I have heard him oft maintain it to be fit
Never, my lord. But I have heard him oft maintain it to be fit
that, sons at perfect age, and fathers declined, the father
that, sons at perfect age, and fathers declined, the father
should be as ward to the son, and the son manage his revenue.</p>
should be as ward to the son, and the son manage his revenue.</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
O villain, villain! His very opinion in the letter! Abhorred
O villain, villain! His very opinion in the letter! Abhorred
villain! Unnatural, detested, brutish villain! worse than
villain! Unnatural, detested, brutish villain! worse than
brutish! Go, sirrah, seek him; I'll apprehend him. Abominable
brutish! Go, sirrah, seek him; I'll apprehend him. Abominable
villain, Where is he?</p>
villain, Where is he?</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
I do not well know, my lord. If it shall please you to suspend
I do not well know, my lord. If it shall please you to suspend
your indignation against my brother till you can derive from him
your indignation against my brother till you can derive from him
better testimony of his intent, you should run a certain course;
better testimony of his intent, you should run a certain course;
where, if you violently proceed against him, mistaking his
where, if you violently proceed against him, mistaking his
purpose, it would make a great gap in your own honour, and shake
purpose, it would make a great gap in your own honour, and shake
in pieces the heart of his obedience. I dare pawn down my life
in pieces the heart of his obedience. I dare pawn down my life
for him, that he hath writ this to feel my affection to your
for him, that he hath writ this to feel my affection to your
honour, and to no other pretence of danger.</p>
honour, and to no other pretence of danger.</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
Think you so?
Think you so?
</p>
</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
If your honour judge it meet, I will place you where you shall hear us
If your honour judge it meet, I will place you where you shall hear us
confer of this, and by an auricular assurance have your satisfaction,
confer of this, and by an auricular assurance have your satisfaction,
and that without any further delay than this very evening.</p>
and that without any further delay than this very evening.</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
He cannot be such a monster.
He cannot be such a monster.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
Nor is not, sure.
Nor is not, sure.
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
To his father, that so tenderly and entirely loves him. Heaven
To his father, that so tenderly and entirely loves him. Heaven
and earth! Edmund, seek him out; wind me into him, I pray you:
and earth! Edmund, seek him out; wind me into him, I pray you:
frame the business after your own wisdom. I would unstate myself
frame the business after your own wisdom. I would unstate myself
to be in a due resolution.</p>
to be in a due resolution.</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
I will seek him, sir, presently; convey the business as I shall
I will seek him, sir, presently; convey the business as I shall
find means, and acquaint you withal.</p>
find means, and acquaint you withal.</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
These late eclipses in the sun and moon portend no good to us:
These late eclipses in the sun and moon portend no good to us:
though the wisdom of Nature can reason it thus and thus, yet
though the wisdom of Nature can reason it thus and thus, yet
nature finds itself scourged by the sequent effects. Love cools,
nature finds itself scourged by the sequent effects. Love cools,
friendship falls off, brothers divide: in cities, mutinies; in
friendship falls off, brothers divide: in cities, mutinies; in
countries, discord; in palaces, treason; and the bond cracked
countries, discord; in palaces, treason; and the bond cracked
'twixt son and father. This villain of mine comes under the
'twixt son and father. This villain of mine comes under the
prediction; there's son against father: the King falls from
prediction; there's son against father: the King falls from
bias of nature; there's father against child. We have seen the
bias of nature; there's father against child. We have seen the
best of our time. Machinations, hollowness, treachery, and all
best of our time. Machinations, hollowness, treachery, and all
ruinous disorders follow us disquietly to our graves. Find out
ruinous disorders follow us disquietly to our graves. Find out
this villain, Edmund; it shall lose thee nothing; do it
this villain, Edmund; it shall lose thee nothing; do it
carefully.&mdash;And the noble and true-hearted Kent banished! his
 
carefully.&amp;mdash;And the noble and true-hearted Kent banished! his
 
offence, honesty! 'Tis strange.</p>
offence, honesty! 'Tis strange.</p>


Line 891: Line 1,490:


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
This is the excellent foppery of the world, that, when we are
This is the excellent foppery of the world, that, when we are
sick in fortune, often the surfeits of our own behaviour, we
sick in fortune, often the surfeits of our own behaviour, we
make guilty of our disasters the sun, the moon, and the stars; as
make guilty of our disasters the sun, the moon, and the stars; as
if we were villains on necessity; fools by heavenly compulsion;
if we were villains on necessity; fools by heavenly compulsion;
knaves, thieves, and treachers by spherical predominance;
knaves, thieves, and treachers by spherical predominance;
drunkards, liars, and adulterers by an enforced obedience of
drunkards, liars, and adulterers by an enforced obedience of
planetary influence; and all that we are evil in, by a divine
planetary influence; and all that we are evil in, by a divine
thrusting on. An admirable evasion of whoremaster man, to lay his
thrusting on. An admirable evasion of whoremaster man, to lay his
goatish disposition to the charge of a star. My father compounded
goatish disposition to the charge of a star. My father compounded
with my mother under the dragon's tail, and my nativity was under
with my mother under the dragon's tail, and my nativity was under
Ursa Major, so that it follows I am rough and lecherous. Fut! I
Ursa Major, so that it follows I am rough and lecherous. Fut! I
should have been that I am, had the maidenliest star in the
should have been that I am, had the maidenliest star in the
firmament twinkled on my bastardizing.</p>
firmament twinkled on my bastardizing.</p>


Line 908: Line 1,520:


<p>Pat! he comes, like the catastrophe of the old comedy: my cue
<p>Pat! he comes, like the catastrophe of the old comedy: my cue
is villainous melancholy, with a sigh like Tom o'Bedlam.&mdash;O,
 
is villainous melancholy, with a sigh like Tom o'Bedlam.&amp;mdash;O,
 
these eclipses do portend these divisions! Fa, sol, la, mi.</p>
these eclipses do portend these divisions! Fa, sol, la, mi.</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
How now, brother Edmund, what serious contemplation are you in?
How now, brother Edmund, what serious contemplation are you in?
</p>
</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
I am thinking, brother, of a prediction I read this other day,
I am thinking, brother, of a prediction I read this other day,
what should follow these eclipses.</p>
what should follow these eclipses.</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
Do you busy yourself with that?
Do you busy yourself with that?
</p>
</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
I promise you, the effects he writes of succeed unhappily: as of
I promise you, the effects he writes of succeed unhappily: as of
unnaturalness between the child and the parent; death, dearth,
unnaturalness between the child and the parent; death, dearth,
dissolutions of ancient amities; divisions in state, menaces and
dissolutions of ancient amities; divisions in state, menaces and
maledictions against King and nobles; needless diffidences,
maledictions against King and nobles; needless diffidences,
banishment of friends, dissipation of cohorts, nuptial breaches,
banishment of friends, dissipation of cohorts, nuptial breaches,
and I know not what.</p>
and I know not what.</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
How long have you been a sectary astronomical?
How long have you been a sectary astronomical?
</p>
</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
Come, come! when saw you my father last?
Come, come! when saw you my father last?
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
The night gone by.
The night gone by.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
Spake you with him?
Spake you with him?
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
Ay, two hours together.
Ay, two hours together.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
Parted you in good terms? Found you no displeasure in him, by word
Parted you in good terms? Found you no displeasure in him, by word
nor countenance?</p>
nor countenance?</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
None at all.
None at all.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
Bethink yourself wherein you may have offended him: and at my
Bethink yourself wherein you may have offended him: and at my
entreaty forbear his presence until some little time hath
entreaty forbear his presence until some little time hath
qualified the heat of his displeasure; which at this instant so
qualified the heat of his displeasure; which at this instant so
rageth in him that with the mischief of your person it would
rageth in him that with the mischief of your person it would
scarcely allay.</p>
scarcely allay.</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
Some villain hath done me wrong.
Some villain hath done me wrong.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
That's my fear. I pray you have a continent forbearance till the
That's my fear. I pray you have a continent forbearance till the
speed of his rage goes slower; and, as I say, retire with me to
speed of his rage goes slower; and, as I say, retire with me to
my lodging, from whence I will fitly bring you to hear my lord
my lodging, from whence I will fitly bring you to hear my lord
speak: pray ye, go; there's my key. If you do stir abroad, go
speak: pray ye, go; there's my key. If you do stir abroad, go
armed.</p>
armed.</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
Armed, brother?
Armed, brother?
</p>
</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
Brother, I advise you to the best; I am no honest man
Brother, I advise you to the best; I am no honest man
if there be any good meaning toward you: I have told you what I
if there be any good meaning toward you: I have told you what I
have seen and heard. But faintly; nothing like the image and
have seen and heard. But faintly; nothing like the image and
horror of it: pray you, away!</p>
horror of it: pray you, away!</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
Shall I hear from you anon?
Shall I hear from you anon?
</p>
</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
I do serve you in this business.
I do serve you in this business.
</p>
</p>


Line 998: Line 1,660:


<p>A credulous father! and a brother noble,<br/>
<p>A credulous father! and a brother noble,<br/>
Whose nature is so far from doing harms<br/>
Whose nature is so far from doing harms<br/>
That he suspects none; on whose foolish honesty<br/>
That he suspects none; on whose foolish honesty<br/>
My practices ride easy! I see the business.<br/>
My practices ride easy! I see the business.<br/>
Let me, if not by birth, have lands by wit;<br/>
Let me, if not by birth, have lands by wit;<br/>
All with me's meet that I can fashion fit.
All with me's meet that I can fashion fit.
</p>
</p>


Line 1,010: Line 1,678:


<p class="scenedesc"> Enter <span class="charname">Goneril</span> and <span
<p class="scenedesc"> Enter <span class="charname">Goneril</span> and <span
class="charname">Oswald</span>.</p>
class="charname">Oswald</span>.</p>


<p>GONERIL.<br/>
<p>GONERIL.<br/>
Did my father strike my gentleman for chiding of his fool?
Did my father strike my gentleman for chiding of his fool?
</p>
</p>


<p>OSWALD.<br/>
<p>OSWALD.<br/>
Ay, madam.</p>
Ay, madam.</p>


<p>GONERIL.<br/>
<p>GONERIL.<br/>
By day and night, he wrongs me; every hour<br/>
By day and night, he wrongs me; every hour<br/>
He flashes into one gross crime or other,<br/>
He flashes into one gross crime or other,<br/>
That sets us all at odds; I'll not endure it:<br/>
That sets us all at odds; I'll not endure it:<br/>
His knights grow riotous, and himself upbraids us<br/>
His knights grow riotous, and himself upbraids us<br/>
On every trifle. When he returns from hunting,<br/>
On every trifle. When he returns from hunting,<br/>
I will not speak with him; say I am sick.<br/>
I will not speak with him; say I am sick.<br/>
If you come slack of former services,<br/>
If you come slack of former services,<br/>
You shall do well; the fault of it I'll answer.
You shall do well; the fault of it I'll answer.
</p>
</p>


Line 1,033: Line 1,714:


<p>OSWALD.<br/>
<p>OSWALD.<br/>
He's coming, madam; I hear him.
He's coming, madam; I hear him.
</p>
</p>


<p>GONERIL.<br/>
<p>GONERIL.<br/>
Put on what weary negligence you please,<br/>
Put on what weary negligence you please,<br/>
You and your fellows; I'd have it come to question:<br/>
You and your fellows; I'd have it come to question:<br/>
If he distaste it, let him to our sister,<br/>
If he distaste it, let him to our sister,<br/>
Whose mind and mine, I know, in that are one,<br/>
Whose mind and mine, I know, in that are one,<br/>
Not to be overruled. Idle old man,<br/>
Not to be overruled. Idle old man,<br/>
That still would manage those authorities<br/>
That still would manage those authorities<br/>
That he hath given away! Now, by my life,<br/>
That he hath given away! Now, by my life,<br/>
Old fools are babes again; and must be us'd<br/>
Old fools are babes again; and must be us'd<br/>
With checks as flatteries, when they are seen abus'd.<br/>
With checks as flatteries, when they are seen abus'd.<br/>
Remember what I have said.
Remember what I have said.
</p>
</p>


<p>OSWALD.<br/>
<p>OSWALD.<br/>
Very well, madam.
Very well, madam.
</p>
</p>


<p>GONERIL.<br/>
<p>GONERIL.<br/>
And let his knights have colder looks among you;<br/>
And let his knights have colder looks among you;<br/>
What grows of it, no matter; advise your fellows so;<br/>
What grows of it, no matter; advise your fellows so;<br/>
I would breed from hence occasions, and I shall,<br/>
I would breed from hence occasions, and I shall,<br/>
That I may speak. I'll write straight to my sister<br/>
That I may speak. I'll write straight to my sister<br/>
To hold my very course. Prepare for dinner.
To hold my very course. Prepare for dinner.
</p>
</p>


Line 1,068: Line 1,770:


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
If but as well I other accents borrow,<br/>
If but as well I other accents borrow,<br/>
That can my speech defuse, my good intent<br/>
That can my speech defuse, my good intent<br/>
May carry through itself to that full issue<br/>
May carry through itself to that full issue<br/>
For which I rais'd my likeness. Now, banish'd Kent,<br/>
For which I rais'd my likeness. Now, banish'd Kent,<br/>
If thou canst serve where thou dost stand condemn'd,<br/>
If thou canst serve where thou dost stand condemn'd,<br/>
So may it come, thy master, whom thou lov'st,<br/>
So may it come, thy master, whom thou lov'st,<br/>
Shall find thee full of labours.
Shall find thee full of labours.
</p>
</p>


<p class="scenedesc"> Horns within. Enter <span class="charname">King
<p class="scenedesc"> Horns within. Enter <span class="charname">King
Lear,</span> Knights and Attendants.</p>
Lear,</span> Knights and Attendants.</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Let me not stay a jot for dinner; go get it ready.
Let me not stay a jot for dinner; go get it ready.
</p>
</p>


Line 1,089: Line 1,802:


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
A man, sir.
A man, sir.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
What dost thou profess? What wouldst thou with us?
What dost thou profess? What wouldst thou with us?
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
I do profess to be no less than I seem; to serve him truly that
I do profess to be no less than I seem; to serve him truly that
will put me in trust; to love him that is honest; to converse
will put me in trust; to love him that is honest; to converse
with him that is wise and says little; to fear judgement; to fight
with him that is wise and says little; to fear judgement; to fight
when I cannot choose; and to eat no fish.</p>
when I cannot choose; and to eat no fish.</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
What art thou?
What art thou?
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
A very honest-hearted fellow, and as poor as the King.
A very honest-hearted fellow, and as poor as the King.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
If thou be'st as poor for a subject as he's for a king, thou art
If thou be'st as poor for a subject as he's for a king, thou art
poor enough. What wouldst thou?</p>
poor enough. What wouldst thou?</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
Service.
Service.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Who wouldst thou serve?
Who wouldst thou serve?
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
You.
You.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Dost thou know me, fellow?
Dost thou know me, fellow?
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
No, sir; but you have that in your countenance which I would fain
No, sir; but you have that in your countenance which I would fain
call master.</p>
call master.</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
What's that?
What's that?
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
Authority.
Authority.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
What services canst thou do?
What services canst thou do?
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
I can keep honest counsel, ride, run, mar a curious tale in
I can keep honest counsel, ride, run, mar a curious tale in
telling it and deliver a plain message bluntly. That which
telling it and deliver a plain message bluntly. That which
ordinary men are fit for, I am qualified in, and the best of
ordinary men are fit for, I am qualified in, and the best of
me is diligence.</p>
me is diligence.</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
How old art thou?
How old art thou?
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
Not so young, sir, to love a woman for singing; nor so old to
Not so young, sir, to love a woman for singing; nor so old to
dote on her for anything: I have years on my back forty-eight.</p>
dote on her for anything: I have years on my back forty-eight.</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Follow me; thou shalt serve me. If I like thee no worse after dinner, I will not
Follow me; thou shalt serve me. If I like thee no worse after dinner, I will not
part from thee yet. Dinner, ho, dinner! Where's my knave? my fool? Go you
part from thee yet. Dinner, ho, dinner! Where's my knave? my fool? Go you
and call my fool hither.
and call my fool hither.
</p>
</p>


Line 1,173: Line 1,928:


<p>OSWALD.<br/>
<p>OSWALD.<br/>
So please you,&mdash;
 
So please you,&amp;mdash;
 
</p>
</p>


Line 1,179: Line 1,936:


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
What says the fellow there? Call the clotpoll back.
What says the fellow there? Call the clotpoll back.
</p>
</p>


Line 1,191: Line 1,950:


<p>KNIGHT.<br/>
<p>KNIGHT.<br/>
He says, my lord, your daughter is not well.
He says, my lord, your daughter is not well.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Why came not the slave back to me when I called him?
Why came not the slave back to me when I called him?
</p>
</p>


<p>KNIGHT.<br/>
<p>KNIGHT.<br/>
Sir, he answered me in the roundest manner, he would not.
Sir, he answered me in the roundest manner, he would not.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
He would not?
He would not?
</p>
</p>


<p>KNIGHT.<br/>
<p>KNIGHT.<br/>
My lord, I know not what the matter is; but to my judgement your
My lord, I know not what the matter is; but to my judgement your
highness is not entertained with that ceremonious affection as
highness is not entertained with that ceremonious affection as
you were wont; there's a great abatement of kindness appears as
you were wont; there's a great abatement of kindness appears as
well in the general dependants as in the Duke himself also, and
well in the general dependants as in the Duke himself also, and
your daughter.</p>
your daughter.</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Ha! say'st thou so?
Ha! say'st thou so?
</p>
</p>


<p>KNIGHT.<br/>
<p>KNIGHT.<br/>
I beseech you pardon me, my lord, if I be mistaken; for my duty
I beseech you pardon me, my lord, if I be mistaken; for my duty
cannot be silent when I think your highness wronged.</p>
cannot be silent when I think your highness wronged.</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Thou but rememberest me of mine own conception: I have perceived
Thou but rememberest me of mine own conception: I have perceived
a most faint neglect of late; which I have rather blamed as mine
a most faint neglect of late; which I have rather blamed as mine
own jealous curiosity than as a very pretence and purpose of
own jealous curiosity than as a very pretence and purpose of
unkindness: I will look further into't. But where's my fool? I
unkindness: I will look further into't. But where's my fool? I
have not seen him this two days.</p>
have not seen him this two days.</p>


<p>KNIGHT.<br/>
<p>KNIGHT.<br/>
Since my young lady's going into France, sir, the fool hath much
Since my young lady's going into France, sir, the fool hath much
pined away.</p>
pined away.</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
No more of that; I have noted it well. Go you and tell my
No more of that; I have noted it well. Go you and tell my
daughter I would speak with her.</p>
daughter I would speak with her.</p>


Line 1,247: Line 2,032:


<p>OSWALD.<br/>
<p>OSWALD.<br/>
My lady's father.
My lady's father.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
My lady's father! my lord's knave: you whoreson dog! you slave! you
My lady's father! my lord's knave: you whoreson dog! you slave! you
cur!</p>
cur!</p>


<p>OSWALD.<br/>
<p>OSWALD.<br/>
I am none of these, my lord; I beseech your pardon.
I am none of these, my lord; I beseech your pardon.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Do you bandy looks with me, you rascal?
Do you bandy looks with me, you rascal?
</p>
</p>


Line 1,265: Line 2,058:


<p>OSWALD.<br/>
<p>OSWALD.<br/>
I'll not be struck, my lord.
I'll not be struck, my lord.
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
Nor tripp'd neither, you base football player.
Nor tripp'd neither, you base football player.
</p>
</p>


Line 1,275: Line 2,072:


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
I thank thee, fellow. Thou serv'st me, and I'll love thee.
I thank thee, fellow. Thou serv'st me, and I'll love thee.
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
Come, sir, arise, away! I'll teach you differences: away, away! If you
Come, sir, arise, away! I'll teach you differences: away, away! If you
will measure your lubber's length again, tarry; but away! go to; have you
will measure your lubber's length again, tarry; but away! go to; have you
wisdom? So.
wisdom? So.
</p>
</p>


Line 1,287: Line 2,090:


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Now, my friendly knave, I thank thee: there's earnest of thy service.
Now, my friendly knave, I thank thee: there's earnest of thy service.
</p>
</p>


Line 1,295: Line 2,100:


<p>FOOL.<br/>
<p>FOOL.<br/>
Let me hire him too; here's my coxcomb.
Let me hire him too; here's my coxcomb.
</p>
</p>


<p class="right"> [<i>Giving <span class="charname">Kent</span> his
<p class="right"> [<i>Giving <span class="charname">Kent</span> his
cap.</i>]</p>
cap.</i>]</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
How now, my pretty knave, how dost thou?
How now, my pretty knave, how dost thou?
</p>
</p>


<p>FOOL.<br/>
<p>FOOL.<br/>
Sirrah, you were best take my coxcomb.
Sirrah, you were best take my coxcomb.
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
Why, fool?
Why, fool?
</p>
</p>


<p>FOOL.<br/>
<p>FOOL.<br/>
Why, for taking one's part that's out of favour. Nay, an thou
Why, for taking one's part that's out of favour. Nay, an thou
canst not smile as the wind sits, thou'lt catch cold shortly:
canst not smile as the wind sits, thou'lt catch cold shortly:
there, take my coxcomb: why, this fellow has banish'd two on's
there, take my coxcomb: why, this fellow has banish'd two on's
daughters, and did the third a blessing against his will; if
daughters, and did the third a blessing against his will; if
thou follow him, thou must needs wear my coxcomb. How now,
thou follow him, thou must needs wear my coxcomb. How now,
nuncle! Would I had two coxcombs and two daughters!</p>
nuncle! Would I had two coxcombs and two daughters!</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Why, my boy?
Why, my boy?
</p>
</p>


<p>FOOL.<br/>
<p>FOOL.<br/>
If I gave them all my living, I'd keep my coxcombs myself. There's
If I gave them all my living, I'd keep my coxcombs myself. There's
mine; beg another of thy daughters.
mine; beg another of thy daughters.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Take heed, sirrah, the whip.
Take heed, sirrah, the whip.
</p>
</p>


<p>FOOL.<br/>
<p>FOOL.<br/>
Truth's a dog must to kennel; he must be whipped out, when
Truth's a dog must to kennel; he must be whipped out, when
the Lady Brach may stand by the fire and stink.</p>
the Lady Brach may stand by the fire and stink.</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
A pestilent gall to me!
A pestilent gall to me!
</p>
</p>


<p>FOOL.<br/>
<p>FOOL.<br/>
Sirrah, I'll teach thee a speech.
Sirrah, I'll teach thee a speech.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Do.
Do.
</p>
</p>


<p>FOOL.<br/>
<p>FOOL.<br/>
Mark it, nuncle:<br/>
Mark it, nuncle:<br/>
     Have more than thou showest,<br/>
     Have more than thou showest,<br/>
     Speak less than thou knowest,<br/>
     Speak less than thou knowest,<br/>
     Lend less than thou owest,<br/>
     Lend less than thou owest,<br/>
     Ride more than thou goest,<br/>
     Ride more than thou goest,<br/>
     Learn more than thou trowest,<br/>
     Learn more than thou trowest,<br/>
     Set less than thou throwest;<br/>
     Set less than thou throwest;<br/>
     Leave thy drink and thy whore,<br/>
     Leave thy drink and thy whore,<br/>
     And keep in-a-door,<br/>
     And keep in-a-door,<br/>
     And thou shalt have more<br/>
     And thou shalt have more<br/>
     Than two tens to a score.
     Than two tens to a score.
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
This is nothing, fool.
This is nothing, fool.
</p>
</p>


<p>FOOL.<br/>
<p>FOOL.<br/>
Then 'tis like the breath of an unfee'd lawyer, you gave me
Then 'tis like the breath of an unfee'd lawyer, you gave me
nothing for't. Can you make no use of nothing, nuncle?</p>
nothing for't. Can you make no use of nothing, nuncle?</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Why, no, boy; nothing can be made out of nothing.
Why, no, boy; nothing can be made out of nothing.
</p>
</p>


<p>FOOL.<br/>
<p>FOOL.<br/>
[<i>to Kent.</i>] Prythee tell him, so much the rent of his land
[<i>to Kent.</i>] Prythee tell him, so much the rent of his land
comes to: he will not believe a fool.</p>
comes to: he will not believe a fool.</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
A bitter fool.
A bitter fool.
</p>
</p>


<p>FOOL.<br/>
<p>FOOL.<br/>
Dost thou know the difference, my boy, between a bitter fool and
Dost thou know the difference, my boy, between a bitter fool and
a sweet one?</p>
a sweet one?</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
No, lad; teach me.
No, lad; teach me.
</p>
</p>


<p>FOOL.<br/>
<p>FOOL.<br/>
   That lord that counsell'd thee<br/>
   That lord that counsell'd thee<br/>
     To give away thy land,<br/>
     To give away thy land,<br/>
   Come place him here by me,<br/>
   Come place him here by me,<br/>
     Do thou for him stand.<br/>
     Do thou for him stand.<br/>
   The sweet and bitter fool<br/>
   The sweet and bitter fool<br/>
     Will presently appear;<br/>
     Will presently appear;<br/>
   The one in motley here,<br/>
   The one in motley here,<br/>
     The other found out there.
     The other found out there.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Dost thou call me fool, boy?
Dost thou call me fool, boy?
</p>
</p>


<p>FOOL.<br/>
<p>FOOL.<br/>
All thy other titles thou hast given away; that thou wast born
All thy other titles thou hast given away; that thou wast born
with.</p>
with.</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
This is not altogether fool, my lord.
This is not altogether fool, my lord.
</p>
</p>


<p>FOOL.<br/>
<p>FOOL.<br/>
No, faith; lords and great men will not let me; if I had a
No, faith; lords and great men will not let me; if I had a
monopoly out, they would have part on't and ladies too, they
monopoly out, they would have part on't and ladies too, they
will not let me have all the fool to myself; they'll be
will not let me have all the fool to myself; they'll be
snatching. Nuncle, give me an egg, and I'll give thee two
snatching. Nuncle, give me an egg, and I'll give thee two
crowns.</p>
crowns.</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
What two crowns shall they be?
What two crowns shall they be?
</p>
</p>


<p>FOOL.<br/>
<p>FOOL.<br/>
Why, after I have cut the egg i' the middle and eat up the
Why, after I have cut the egg i' the middle and eat up the
meat, the two crowns of the egg. When thou clovest thy crown i'
meat, the two crowns of the egg. When thou clovest thy crown i'
the middle and gav'st away both parts, thou bor'st thine ass on
the middle and gav'st away both parts, thou bor'st thine ass on
thy back o'er the dirt: thou hadst little wit in thy bald crown
thy back o'er the dirt: thou hadst little wit in thy bald crown
when thou gav'st thy golden one away. If I speak like myself in
when thou gav'st thy golden one away. If I speak like myself in
this, let him be whipped that first finds it so.<br/>
this, let him be whipped that first finds it so.<br/>
[<i>Singing.</i>]<br/>
[<i>Singing.</i>]<br/>
   Fools had ne'er less grace in a year;<br/>
   Fools had ne'er less grace in a year;<br/>
     For wise men are grown foppish,<br/>
     For wise men are grown foppish,<br/>
   And know not how their wits to wear,<br/>
   And know not how their wits to wear,<br/>
     Their manners are so apish.
     Their manners are so apish.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
When were you wont to be so full of songs, sirrah?
When were you wont to be so full of songs, sirrah?
</p>
</p>


<p>FOOL.<br/>
<p>FOOL.<br/>
I have used it, nuncle, e'er since thou mad'st thy daughters thy
I have used it, nuncle, e'er since thou mad'st thy daughters thy
mothers; for when thou gav'st them the rod, and put'st down thine
mothers; for when thou gav'st them the rod, and put'st down thine
own breeches,<br/>
own breeches,<br/>
[<i>Singing.</i>]<br/>
[<i>Singing.</i>]<br/>
   Then they for sudden joy did weep,<br/>
   Then they for sudden joy did weep,<br/>
     And I for sorrow sung,<br/>
     And I for sorrow sung,<br/>
   That such a king should play bo-peep,<br/>
   That such a king should play bo-peep,<br/>
     And go the fools among.<br/>
     And go the fools among.<br/>
Prythee, nuncle, keep a schoolmaster that can teach thy fool to
Prythee, nuncle, keep a schoolmaster that can teach thy fool to
lie; I would fain learn to lie.</p>
lie; I would fain learn to lie.</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
An you lie, sirrah, we'll have you whipped.
An you lie, sirrah, we'll have you whipped.
</p>
</p>


<p>FOOL.<br/>
<p>FOOL.<br/>
I marvel what kin thou and thy daughters are: they'll have me
I marvel what kin thou and thy daughters are: they'll have me
whipped for speaking true; thou'lt have me whipped for lying;
whipped for speaking true; thou'lt have me whipped for lying;
and sometimes I am whipped for holding my peace. I had rather be
and sometimes I am whipped for holding my peace. I had rather be
any kind o'thing than a fool: and yet I would not be thee,
any kind o'thing than a fool: and yet I would not be thee,
nuncle: thou hast pared thy wit o'both sides, and left nothing
nuncle: thou hast pared thy wit o'both sides, and left nothing
i' the middle: here comes one o' the parings.</p>
i' the middle: here comes one o' the parings.</p>


Line 1,471: Line 2,386:


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
How now, daughter? What makes that frontlet on? Methinks you
How now, daughter? What makes that frontlet on? Methinks you
are too much of late i' the frown.</p>
are too much of late i' the frown.</p>


<p>FOOL.<br/>
<p>FOOL.<br/>
Thou wast a pretty fellow when thou hadst no need to care for
Thou wast a pretty fellow when thou hadst no need to care for
her frowning. Now thou art an O without a figure: I am better
her frowning. Now thou art an O without a figure: I am better
than thou art now. I am a fool, thou art nothing. [<i>To Goneril.</i>]
than thou art now. I am a fool, thou art nothing. [<i>To Goneril.</i>]
Yes, forsooth, I will hold my tongue. So your face bids me, though
Yes, forsooth, I will hold my tongue. So your face bids me, though
you say nothing. Mum, mum,<br/>
you say nothing. Mum, mum,<br/>
     He that keeps nor crust nor crum,<br/>
     He that keeps nor crust nor crum,<br/>
     Weary of all, shall want some.<br/>
     Weary of all, shall want some.<br/>
[<i>Pointing to Lear</i>.] That's a shealed peascod.</p>
[<i>Pointing to Lear</i>.] That's a shealed peascod.</p>


<p>GONERIL.<br/>
<p>GONERIL.<br/>
Not only, sir, this your all-licens'd fool,<br/>
Not only, sir, this your all-licens'd fool,<br/>
But other of your insolent retinue<br/>
But other of your insolent retinue<br/>
Do hourly carp and quarrel; breaking forth<br/>
Do hourly carp and quarrel; breaking forth<br/>
In rank and not-to-be-endured riots. Sir,<br/>
In rank and not-to-be-endured riots. Sir,<br/>
I had thought, by making this well known unto you,<br/>
I had thought, by making this well known unto you,<br/>
To have found a safe redress; but now grow fearful,<br/>
To have found a safe redress; but now grow fearful,<br/>
By what yourself too late have spoke and done,<br/>
By what yourself too late have spoke and done,<br/>
That you protect this course, and put it on<br/>
That you protect this course, and put it on<br/>
By your allowance; which if you should, the fault<br/>
By your allowance; which if you should, the fault<br/>
Would not scape censure, nor the redresses sleep,<br/>
Would not scape censure, nor the redresses sleep,<br/>
Which, in the tender of a wholesome weal,<br/>
Which, in the tender of a wholesome weal,<br/>
Might in their working do you that offence<br/>
Might in their working do you that offence<br/>
Which else were shame, that then necessity<br/>
Which else were shame, that then necessity<br/>
Will call discreet proceeding.
Will call discreet proceeding.
</p>
</p>


<p>FOOL.<br/>
<p>FOOL.<br/>
For you know, nuncle,<br/>
For you know, nuncle,<br/>
   The hedge-sparrow fed the cuckoo so long<br/>
   The hedge-sparrow fed the cuckoo so long<br/>
   That it's had it head bit off by it young.<br/>
   That it's had it head bit off by it young.<br/>
So out went the candle, and we were left darkling.
So out went the candle, and we were left darkling.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Are you our daughter?
Are you our daughter?
</p>
</p>


<p>GONERIL.<br/>
<p>GONERIL.<br/>
Come, sir,<br/>
Come, sir,<br/>
I would you would make use of that good wisdom,<br/>
I would you would make use of that good wisdom,<br/>
Whereof I know you are fraught; and put away<br/>
Whereof I know you are fraught; and put away<br/>
These dispositions, which of late transform you<br/>
These dispositions, which of late transform you<br/>
From what you rightly are.
From what you rightly are.
</p>
</p>


<p>FOOL.<br/>
<p>FOOL.<br/>
May not an ass know when the cart draws the horse? Whoop, Jug! I
May not an ass know when the cart draws the horse? Whoop, Jug! I
love thee!</p>
love thee!</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Doth any here know me? This is not Lear;<br/>
Doth any here know me? This is not Lear;<br/>
Doth Lear walk thus? speak thus? Where are his eyes?<br/>
Doth Lear walk thus? speak thus? Where are his eyes?<br/>
Either his notion weakens, his discernings<br/>
Either his notion weakens, his discernings<br/>
Are lethargied. Ha! waking? 'Tis not so!<br/>
Are lethargied. Ha! waking? 'Tis not so!<br/>
Who is it that can tell me who I am?
Who is it that can tell me who I am?
</p>
</p>


<p>FOOL.<br/>
<p>FOOL.<br/>
Lear's shadow.
Lear's shadow.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
I would learn that; for by the marks of sovereignty, knowledge and
I would learn that; for by the marks of sovereignty, knowledge and
reason, I should be false persuaded I had daughters.
reason, I should be false persuaded I had daughters.
</p>
</p>


<p>FOOL.<br/>
<p>FOOL.<br/>
Which they will make an obedient father.
Which they will make an obedient father.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Your name, fair gentlewoman?
Your name, fair gentlewoman?
</p>
</p>


<p>GONERIL.<br/>
<p>GONERIL.<br/>
This admiration, sir, is much o' the favour<br/>
This admiration, sir, is much o' the favour<br/>
Of other your new pranks. I do beseech you<br/>
Of other your new pranks. I do beseech you<br/>
To understand my purposes aright:<br/>
To understand my purposes aright:<br/>
As you are old and reverend, you should be wise.<br/>
As you are old and reverend, you should be wise.<br/>
Here do you keep a hundred knights and squires;<br/>
Here do you keep a hundred knights and squires;<br/>
Men so disorder'd, so debosh'd and bold<br/>
Men so disorder'd, so debosh'd and bold<br/>
That this our court, infected with their manners,<br/>
That this our court, infected with their manners,<br/>
Shows like a riotous inn. Epicurism and lust<br/>
Shows like a riotous inn. Epicurism and lust<br/>
Makes it more like a tavern or a brothel<br/>
Makes it more like a tavern or a brothel<br/>
Than a grac'd palace. The shame itself doth speak<br/>
Than a grac'd palace. The shame itself doth speak<br/>
For instant remedy. Be, then, desir'd<br/>
For instant remedy. Be, then, desir'd<br/>
By her that else will take the thing she begs<br/>
By her that else will take the thing she begs<br/>
A little to disquantity your train;<br/>
A little to disquantity your train;<br/>
And the remainder that shall still depend,<br/>
And the remainder that shall still depend,<br/>
To be such men as may besort your age,<br/>
To be such men as may besort your age,<br/>
Which know themselves, and you.
Which know themselves, and you.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Darkness and devils!<br/>
Darkness and devils!<br/>
Saddle my horses; call my train together.<br/>
Saddle my horses; call my train together.<br/>
Degenerate bastard! I'll not trouble thee:<br/>
Degenerate bastard! I'll not trouble thee:<br/>
Yet have I left a daughter.
Yet have I left a daughter.
</p>
</p>


<p>GONERIL.<br/>
<p>GONERIL.<br/>
You strike my people; and your disorder'd rabble<br/>
You strike my people; and your disorder'd rabble<br/>
Make servants of their betters.
Make servants of their betters.
</p>
</p>


Line 1,583: Line 2,578:


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Woe that too late repents!&mdash;<br/>
 
Woe that too late repents!&amp;mdash;<br/>
 
[<i>To Albany.</i>] O, sir, are you come?<br/>
[<i>To Albany.</i>] O, sir, are you come?<br/>
Is it your will? Speak, sir.&mdash;Prepare my horses.<br/>
 
Is it your will? Speak, sir.&amp;mdash;Prepare my horses.<br/>
 
Ingratitude, thou marble-hearted fiend,<br/>
Ingratitude, thou marble-hearted fiend,<br/>
More hideous when thou show'st thee in a child<br/>
More hideous when thou show'st thee in a child<br/>
Than the sea-monster!
Than the sea-monster!
</p>
</p>


<p>ALBANY.<br/>
<p>ALBANY.<br/>
Pray, sir, be patient.
Pray, sir, be patient.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
[<i>to Goneril.</i>] Detested kite, thou liest.<br/>
[<i>to Goneril.</i>] Detested kite, thou liest.<br/>
My train are men of choice and rarest parts,<br/>
My train are men of choice and rarest parts,<br/>
That all particulars of duty know;<br/>
That all particulars of duty know;<br/>
And in the most exact regard support<br/>
And in the most exact regard support<br/>
The worships of their name. O most small fault,<br/>
The worships of their name. O most small fault,<br/>
How ugly didst thou in Cordelia show!<br/>
How ugly didst thou in Cordelia show!<br/>
Which, like an engine, wrench'd my frame of nature<br/>
Which, like an engine, wrench'd my frame of nature<br/>
From the fix'd place; drew from my heart all love,<br/>
From the fix'd place; drew from my heart all love,<br/>
And added to the gall. O Lear, Lear, Lear!<br/>
And added to the gall. O Lear, Lear, Lear!<br/>
[<i>Striking his head.</i>] Beat at this gate that let thy folly in<br/>
[<i>Striking his head.</i>] Beat at this gate that let thy folly in<br/>
And thy dear judgement out! Go, go, my people.
And thy dear judgement out! Go, go, my people.
</p>
</p>


<p>ALBANY.<br/>
<p>ALBANY.<br/>
My lord, I am guiltless, as I am ignorant<br/>
My lord, I am guiltless, as I am ignorant<br/>
Of what hath moved you.
Of what hath moved you.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
It may be so, my lord.<br/>
It may be so, my lord.<br/>
Hear, nature, hear; dear goddess, hear<br/>
Hear, nature, hear; dear goddess, hear<br/>
Suspend thy purpose, if thou didst intend<br/>
Suspend thy purpose, if thou didst intend<br/>
To make this creature fruitful!<br/>
To make this creature fruitful!<br/>
Into her womb convey sterility!<br/>
Into her womb convey sterility!<br/>
Dry up in her the organs of increase;<br/>
Dry up in her the organs of increase;<br/>
And from her derogate body never spring<br/>
And from her derogate body never spring<br/>
A babe to honour her! If she must teem,<br/>
A babe to honour her! If she must teem,<br/>
Create her child of spleen, that it may live<br/>
Create her child of spleen, that it may live<br/>
And be a thwart disnatur'd torment to her!<br/>
And be a thwart disnatur'd torment to her!<br/>
Let it stamp wrinkles in her brow of youth;<br/>
Let it stamp wrinkles in her brow of youth;<br/>
With cadent tears fret channels in her cheeks;<br/>
With cadent tears fret channels in her cheeks;<br/>
Turn all her mother's pains and benefits<br/>
Turn all her mother's pains and benefits<br/>
To laughter and contempt; that she may feel<br/>
To laughter and contempt; that she may feel<br/>
How sharper than a serpent's tooth it is<br/>
How sharper than a serpent's tooth it is<br/>
To have a thankless child! Away, away!
To have a thankless child! Away, away!
</p>
</p>


Line 1,636: Line 2,672:


<p>ALBANY.<br/>
<p>ALBANY.<br/>
Now, gods that we adore, whereof comes this?
Now, gods that we adore, whereof comes this?
</p>
</p>


<p>GONERIL.<br/>
<p>GONERIL.<br/>
Never afflict yourself to know more of it;<br/>
Never afflict yourself to know more of it;<br/>
But let his disposition have that scope<br/>
But let his disposition have that scope<br/>
That dotage gives it.
That dotage gives it.
</p>
</p>


Line 1,648: Line 2,690:


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
What, fifty of my followers at a clap?<br/>
What, fifty of my followers at a clap?<br/>
Within a fortnight?
Within a fortnight?
</p>
</p>


<p>ALBANY.<br/>
<p>ALBANY.<br/>
What's the matter, sir?
What's the matter, sir?
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
I'll tell thee. [<i>To Goneril.</i>] Life and death! I am
I'll tell thee. [<i>To Goneril.</i>] Life and death! I am
asham'd<br/>
asham'd<br/>
That thou hast power to shake my manhood thus;<br/>
That thou hast power to shake my manhood thus;<br/>
That these hot tears, which break from me perforce,<br/>
That these hot tears, which break from me perforce,<br/>
Should make thee worth them. Blasts and fogs upon thee!<br/>
Should make thee worth them. Blasts and fogs upon thee!<br/>
Th'untented woundings of a father's curse<br/>
Th'untented woundings of a father's curse<br/>
Pierce every sense about thee! Old fond eyes,<br/>
Pierce every sense about thee! Old fond eyes,<br/>
Beweep this cause again, I'll pluck ye out,<br/>
Beweep this cause again, I'll pluck ye out,<br/>
And cast you with the waters that you lose<br/>
And cast you with the waters that you lose<br/>
To temper clay. Ha! Let it be so.<br/>
To temper clay. Ha! Let it be so.<br/>
I have another daughter,<br/>
I have another daughter,<br/>
Who, I am sure, is kind and comfortable:<br/>
Who, I am sure, is kind and comfortable:<br/>
When she shall hear this of thee, with her nails<br/>
When she shall hear this of thee, with her nails<br/>
She'll flay thy wolvish visage. Thou shalt find<br/>
She'll flay thy wolvish visage. Thou shalt find<br/>
That I'll resume the shape which thou dost think<br/>
That I'll resume the shape which thou dost think<br/>
I have cast off for ever.
I have cast off for ever.
</p>
</p>


<p class="right"> [<i>Exeunt <span class="charname">Lear, Kent</span> and
<p class="right"> [<i>Exeunt <span class="charname">Lear, Kent</span> and
Attendants.</i>]</p>
Attendants.</i>]</p>


<p>GONERIL.<br/>
<p>GONERIL.<br/>
Do you mark that?
Do you mark that?
</p>
</p>


<p>ALBANY.<br/>
<p>ALBANY.<br/>
I cannot be so partial, Goneril,<br/>
I cannot be so partial, Goneril,<br/>
To the great love I bear you,&mdash;
 
To the great love I bear you,&amp;mdash;
 
</p>
</p>


<p>GONERIL.<br/>
<p>GONERIL.<br/>
Pray you, content. What, Oswald, ho!<br/>
Pray you, content. What, Oswald, ho!<br/>
[<i>To the Fool.</i>] You, sir, more knave than fool, after your master.
[<i>To the Fool.</i>] You, sir, more knave than fool, after your master.
</p>
</p>


<p>FOOL.<br/>
<p>FOOL.<br/>
Nuncle Lear, nuncle Lear, tarry and take the fool with thee.<br/>
Nuncle Lear, nuncle Lear, tarry and take the fool with thee.<br/>
   A fox when one has caught her,<br/>
   A fox when one has caught her,<br/>
   And such a daughter,<br/>
   And such a daughter,<br/>
   Should sure to the slaughter,<br/>
   Should sure to the slaughter,<br/>
   If my cap would buy a halter;<br/>
   If my cap would buy a halter;<br/>
   So the fool follows after.
   So the fool follows after.
</p>
</p>


Line 1,704: Line 2,784:


<p>GONERIL.<br/>
<p>GONERIL.<br/>
This man hath had good counsel.&mdash;A hundred knights!<br/>
 
This man hath had good counsel.&amp;mdash;A hundred knights!<br/>
 
'Tis politic and safe to let him keep<br/>
'Tis politic and safe to let him keep<br/>
At point a hundred knights: yes, that on every dream,<br/>
At point a hundred knights: yes, that on every dream,<br/>
Each buzz, each fancy, each complaint, dislike,<br/>
Each buzz, each fancy, each complaint, dislike,<br/>
He may enguard his dotage with their powers,<br/>
He may enguard his dotage with their powers,<br/>
And hold our lives in mercy. Oswald, I say!
And hold our lives in mercy. Oswald, I say!
</p>
</p>


<p>ALBANY.<br/>
<p>ALBANY.<br/>
Well, you may fear too far.
Well, you may fear too far.
</p>
</p>


<p>GONERIL.<br/>
<p>GONERIL.<br/>
Safer than trust too far:<br/>
Safer than trust too far:<br/>
Let me still take away the harms I fear,<br/>
Let me still take away the harms I fear,<br/>
Not fear still to be taken: I know his heart.<br/>
Not fear still to be taken: I know his heart.<br/>
What he hath utter'd I have writ my sister:<br/>
What he hath utter'd I have writ my sister:<br/>
If she sustain him and his hundred knights,<br/>
If she sustain him and his hundred knights,<br/>
When I have show'd th'unfitness,&mdash;
 
When I have show'd th'unfitness,&amp;mdash;
 
</p>
</p>


Line 1,728: Line 2,824:


<p>How now, Oswald!<br/>
<p>How now, Oswald!<br/>
What, have you writ that letter to my sister?
What, have you writ that letter to my sister?
</p>
</p>


<p>OSWALD.<br/>
<p>OSWALD.<br/>
Ay, madam.
Ay, madam.
</p>
</p>


<p>GONERIL.<br/>
<p>GONERIL.<br/>
Take you some company, and away to horse:<br/>
Take you some company, and away to horse:<br/>
Inform her full of my particular fear;<br/>
Inform her full of my particular fear;<br/>
And thereto add such reasons of your own<br/>
And thereto add such reasons of your own<br/>
As may compact it more. Get you gone;<br/>
As may compact it more. Get you gone;<br/>
And hasten your return.
And hasten your return.
</p>
</p>


Line 1,746: Line 2,852:


<p>No, no, my lord!<br/>
<p>No, no, my lord!<br/>
This milky gentleness and course of yours,<br/>
This milky gentleness and course of yours,<br/>
Though I condemn not, yet, under pardon,<br/>
Though I condemn not, yet, under pardon,<br/>
You are much more attask'd for want of wisdom<br/>
You are much more attask'd for want of wisdom<br/>
Than prais'd for harmful mildness.
Than prais'd for harmful mildness.
</p>
</p>


<p>ALBANY.<br/>
<p>ALBANY.<br/>
How far your eyes may pierce I cannot tell:<br/>
How far your eyes may pierce I cannot tell:<br/>
Striving to better, oft we mar what's well.
Striving to better, oft we mar what's well.
</p>
</p>


<p>GONERIL.<br/>
<p>GONERIL.<br/>
Nay then,&mdash;
 
Nay then,&amp;mdash;
 
</p>
</p>


<p>ALBANY.<br/>
<p>ALBANY.<br/>
Well, well; the event.
Well, well; the event.
</p>
</p>


Line 1,770: Line 2,888:


<p class="scenedesc"> Enter <span class="charname">Lear, Kent</span> and <span
<p class="scenedesc"> Enter <span class="charname">Lear, Kent</span> and <span
class="charname">Fool</span>.</p>
class="charname">Fool</span>.</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Go you before to Gloucester with these letters: acquaint my
Go you before to Gloucester with these letters: acquaint my
daughter no further with anything you know than comes from her
daughter no further with anything you know than comes from her
demand out of the letter. If your diligence be not speedy, I
demand out of the letter. If your diligence be not speedy, I
shall be there afore you.</p>
shall be there afore you.</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
I will not sleep, my lord, till I have delivered your letter.
I will not sleep, my lord, till I have delivered your letter.
</p>
</p>


Line 1,785: Line 2,910:


<p>FOOL.<br/>
<p>FOOL.<br/>
If a man's brains were in's heels, were't not in danger of
If a man's brains were in's heels, were't not in danger of
kibes?
kibes?
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Ay, boy.
Ay, boy.
</p>
</p>


<p>FOOL.<br/>
<p>FOOL.<br/>
Then I prythee be merry; thy wit shall not go slipshod.
Then I prythee be merry; thy wit shall not go slipshod.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Ha, ha, ha!
Ha, ha, ha!
</p>
</p>


<p>FOOL.<br/>
<p>FOOL.<br/>
Shalt see thy other daughter will use thee kindly, for though
Shalt see thy other daughter will use thee kindly, for though
she's as like this as a crab's like an apple, yet I can tell
she's as like this as a crab's like an apple, yet I can tell
what I can tell.</p>
what I can tell.</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
What canst tell, boy?
What canst tell, boy?
</p>
</p>


<p>FOOL.<br/>
<p>FOOL.<br/>
She'll taste as like this as a crab does to a crab. Thou
She'll taste as like this as a crab does to a crab. Thou
canst tell why one's nose stands i'the middle on's face?</p>
canst tell why one's nose stands i'the middle on's face?</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
No.
No.
</p>
</p>


<p>FOOL.<br/>
<p>FOOL.<br/>
Why, to keep one's eyes of either side's nose, that what a man
Why, to keep one's eyes of either side's nose, that what a man
cannot smell out, he may spy into.</p>
cannot smell out, he may spy into.</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
I did her wrong.
I did her wrong.
</p>
</p>


<p>FOOL.<br/>
<p>FOOL.<br/>
Canst tell how an oyster makes his shell?
Canst tell how an oyster makes his shell?
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
No.
No.
</p>
</p>


<p>FOOL.<br/>
<p>FOOL.<br/>
Nor I neither; but I can tell why a snail has a house.
Nor I neither; but I can tell why a snail has a house.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Why?
Why?
</p>
</p>


<p>FOOL.<br/>
<p>FOOL.<br/>
Why, to put's head in; not to give it away to his daughters, and
Why, to put's head in; not to give it away to his daughters, and
leave his horns without a case.</p>
leave his horns without a case.</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
I will forget my nature. So kind a father! Be my horses ready?
I will forget my nature. So kind a father! Be my horses ready?
</p>
</p>


<p>FOOL.<br/>
<p>FOOL.<br/>
Thy asses are gone about 'em. The reason why the seven stars are
Thy asses are gone about 'em. The reason why the seven stars are
no more than seven is a pretty reason.</p>
no more than seven is a pretty reason.</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Because they are not eight?
Because they are not eight?
</p>
</p>


<p>FOOL.<br/>
<p>FOOL.<br/>
Yes indeed: thou wouldst make a good fool.
Yes indeed: thou wouldst make a good fool.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
To tak't again perforce!&mdash;Monster ingratitude!
 
To tak't again perforce!&amp;mdash;Monster ingratitude!
 
</p>
</p>


<p>FOOL.<br/>
<p>FOOL.<br/>
If thou wert my fool, nuncle, I'ld have thee beaten for being
If thou wert my fool, nuncle, I'ld have thee beaten for being
old before thy time.</p>
old before thy time.</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
How's that?
How's that?
</p>
</p>


<p>FOOL.<br/>
<p>FOOL.<br/>
Thou shouldst not have been old till thou hadst been wise.
Thou shouldst not have been old till thou hadst been wise.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
O, let me not be mad, not mad, sweet heaven!<br/>
O, let me not be mad, not mad, sweet heaven!<br/>
Keep me in temper; I would not be mad!
Keep me in temper; I would not be mad!
</p>
</p>


Line 1,888: Line 3,064:


<p>GENTLEMAN.<br/>
<p>GENTLEMAN.<br/>
Ready, my lord.
Ready, my lord.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Come, boy.
Come, boy.
</p>
</p>


<p>FOOL.<br/>
<p>FOOL.<br/>
She that's a maid now, and laughs at my departure,<br/>
She that's a maid now, and laughs at my departure,<br/>
Shall not be a maid long, unless things be cut shorter.
Shall not be a maid long, unless things be cut shorter.
</p>
</p>


<p class="right"> [<i>Exeunt.</i>]</p>
<p class="right"> [<i>Exeunt.</i>]</p>


<h3 id="sceneII_181"> <b>ACT II</b></h3>
<h3 id="sceneII_181"> <b>ACT II</b></h3>
Line 1,911: Line 3,090:


<p class="scenedesc"> Enter <span class="charname">Edmund</span> and <span
<p class="scenedesc"> Enter <span class="charname">Edmund</span> and <span
class="charname">Curan</span>, meeting.</p>
class="charname">Curan</span>, meeting.</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
Save thee, Curan.
Save thee, Curan.
</p>
</p>


<p>CURAN.<br/>
<p>CURAN.<br/>
And you, sir. I have been with your father, and given him
And you, sir. I have been with your father, and given him
notice that the Duke of Cornwall and Regan his Duchess will be
notice that the Duke of Cornwall and Regan his Duchess will be
here with him this night.</p>
here with him this night.</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
How comes that?
How comes that?
</p>
</p>


<p>CURAN.<br/>
<p>CURAN.<br/>
Nay, I know not. You have heard of the news abroad; I mean the
Nay, I know not. You have heard of the news abroad; I mean the
whispered ones, for they are yet but ear-kissing arguments?</p>
whispered ones, for they are yet but ear-kissing arguments?</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
Not I: pray you, what are they?
Not I: pray you, what are they?
</p>
</p>


<p>CURAN.<br/>
<p>CURAN.<br/>
Have you heard of no likely wars toward, 'twixt the two dukes
Have you heard of no likely wars toward, 'twixt the two dukes
of Cornwall and Albany?</p>
of Cornwall and Albany?</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
Not a word.
Not a word.
</p>
</p>


<p>CURAN.<br/>
<p>CURAN.<br/>
You may do, then, in time. Fare you well, sir.
You may do, then, in time. Fare you well, sir.
</p>
</p>


Line 1,949: Line 3,146:


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
The Duke be here tonight? The better! best!<br/>
The Duke be here tonight? The better! best!<br/>
This weaves itself perforce into my business.<br/>
This weaves itself perforce into my business.<br/>
My father hath set guard to take my brother;<br/>
My father hath set guard to take my brother;<br/>
And I have one thing, of a queasy question,<br/>
And I have one thing, of a queasy question,<br/>
Which I must act. Briefness and fortune work!<br/>
Which I must act. Briefness and fortune work!<br/>
Brother, a word, descend, brother, I say!
Brother, a word, descend, brother, I say!
</p>
</p>


Line 1,960: Line 3,164:


<p>My father watches: O sir, fly this place;<br/>
<p>My father watches: O sir, fly this place;<br/>
Intelligence is given where you are hid;<br/>
Intelligence is given where you are hid;<br/>
You have now the good advantage of the night.<br/>
You have now the good advantage of the night.<br/>
Have you not spoken 'gainst the Duke of Cornwall?<br/>
Have you not spoken 'gainst the Duke of Cornwall?<br/>
He's coming hither; now, i' the night, i' the haste,<br/>
He's coming hither; now, i' the night, i' the haste,<br/>
And Regan with him: have you nothing said<br/>
And Regan with him: have you nothing said<br/>
Upon his party 'gainst the Duke of Albany?<br/>
Upon his party 'gainst the Duke of Albany?<br/>
Advise yourself.
Advise yourself.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
I am sure on't, not a word.
I am sure on't, not a word.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
I hear my father coming:&mdash;pardon me;<br/>
 
I hear my father coming:&amp;mdash;pardon me;<br/>
 
In cunning I must draw my sword upon you:<br/>
In cunning I must draw my sword upon you:<br/>
Draw: seem to defend yourself: now quit you well.<br/>
Draw: seem to defend yourself: now quit you well.<br/>
Yield: come before my father. Light, ho, here!<br/>
Yield: come before my father. Light, ho, here!<br/>
Fly, brother. Torches, torches!&mdash;So farewell.
 
Fly, brother. Torches, torches!&amp;mdash;So farewell.
 
</p>
</p>


Line 1,984: Line 3,204:


<p>Some blood drawn on me would beget opinion<br/>
<p>Some blood drawn on me would beget opinion<br/>
Of my more fierce endeavour: [<i>Wounds his arm.</i>]<br/>
Of my more fierce endeavour: [<i>Wounds his arm.</i>]<br/>
I have seen drunkards<br/>
I have seen drunkards<br/>
Do more than this in sport. Father, father!<br/>
Do more than this in sport. Father, father!<br/>
Stop, stop! No help?
Stop, stop! No help?
</p>
</p>


<p class="scenedesc"> Enter <span class="charname">Gloucester</span> and
<p class="scenedesc"> Enter <span class="charname">Gloucester</span> and
Servants with torches.</p>
Servants with torches.</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
Now, Edmund, where's the villain?
Now, Edmund, where's the villain?
</p>
</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
Here stood he in the dark, his sharp sword out,<br/>
Here stood he in the dark, his sharp sword out,<br/>
Mumbling of wicked charms, conjuring the moon<br/>
Mumbling of wicked charms, conjuring the moon<br/>
To stand auspicious mistress.
To stand auspicious mistress.
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
But where is he?
But where is he?
</p>
</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
Look, sir, I bleed.
Look, sir, I bleed.
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
Where is the villain, Edmund?
Where is the villain, Edmund?
</p>
</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
Fled this way, sir. When by no means he could,&mdash;
 
Fled this way, sir. When by no means he could,&amp;mdash;
 
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
Pursue him, ho! Go after.
Pursue him, ho! Go after.
</p>
</p>


<p class="right"> [<i>Exeunt Servants.</i>]</p>
<p class="right"> [<i>Exeunt Servants.</i>]</p>


<p>&mdash;By no means what?</p>
<p>&amp;mdash;By no means what?</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
Persuade me to the murder of your lordship;<br/>
Persuade me to the murder of your lordship;<br/>
But that I told him the revenging gods<br/>
But that I told him the revenging gods<br/>
'Gainst parricides did all their thunders bend;<br/>
'Gainst parricides did all their thunders bend;<br/>
Spoke with how manifold and strong a bond<br/>
Spoke with how manifold and strong a bond<br/>
The child was bound to the father; sir, in fine,<br/>
The child was bound to the father; sir, in fine,<br/>
Seeing how loathly opposite I stood<br/>
Seeing how loathly opposite I stood<br/>
To his unnatural purpose, in fell motion<br/>
To his unnatural purpose, in fell motion<br/>
With his prepared sword, he charges home<br/>
With his prepared sword, he charges home<br/>
My unprovided body, latch'd mine arm;<br/>
My unprovided body, latch'd mine arm;<br/>
But when he saw my best alarum'd spirits,<br/>
But when he saw my best alarum'd spirits,<br/>
Bold in the quarrel's right, rous'd to th'encounter,<br/>
Bold in the quarrel's right, rous'd to th'encounter,<br/>
Or whether gasted by the noise I made,<br/>
Or whether gasted by the noise I made,<br/>
Full suddenly he fled.
Full suddenly he fled.
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
Let him fly far;<br/>
Let him fly far;<br/>
Not in this land shall he remain uncaught;<br/>
Not in this land shall he remain uncaught;<br/>
And found&mdash;dispatch'd. The noble Duke my master,<br/>
 
And found&amp;mdash;dispatch'd. The noble Duke my master,<br/>
 
My worthy arch and patron, comes tonight:<br/>
My worthy arch and patron, comes tonight:<br/>
By his authority I will proclaim it,<br/>
By his authority I will proclaim it,<br/>
That he which finds him shall deserve our thanks,<br/>
That he which finds him shall deserve our thanks,<br/>
Bringing the murderous coward to the stake;<br/>
Bringing the murderous coward to the stake;<br/>
He that conceals him, death.
He that conceals him, death.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
When I dissuaded him from his intent,<br/>
When I dissuaded him from his intent,<br/>
And found him pight to do it, with curst speech<br/>
And found him pight to do it, with curst speech<br/>
I threaten'd to discover him: he replied,<br/>
I threaten'd to discover him: he replied,<br/>
'Thou unpossessing bastard! dost thou think,<br/>
'Thou unpossessing bastard! dost thou think,<br/>
If I would stand against thee, would the reposal<br/>
If I would stand against thee, would the reposal<br/>
Of any trust, virtue, or worth in thee<br/>
Of any trust, virtue, or worth in thee<br/>
Make thy words faith'd? No: what I should deny<br/>
Make thy words faith'd? No: what I should deny<br/>
As this I would; ay, though thou didst produce<br/>
As this I would; ay, though thou didst produce<br/>
My very character, I'd turn it all<br/>
My very character, I'd turn it all<br/>
To thy suggestion, plot, and damned practice:<br/>
To thy suggestion, plot, and damned practice:<br/>
And thou must make a dullard of the world,<br/>
And thou must make a dullard of the world,<br/>
If they not thought the profits of my death<br/>
If they not thought the profits of my death<br/>
Were very pregnant and potential spurs<br/>
Were very pregnant and potential spurs<br/>
To make thee seek it.
To make thee seek it.
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
O strange and fast'ned villain!<br/>
O strange and fast'ned villain!<br/>
Would he deny his letter, said he? I never got him.
Would he deny his letter, said he? I never got him.
</p>
</p>


Line 2,080: Line 3,362:


<p>Hark, the Duke's trumpets! I know not why he comes.<br/>
<p>Hark, the Duke's trumpets! I know not why he comes.<br/>
All ports I'll bar; the villain shall not scape;<br/>
All ports I'll bar; the villain shall not scape;<br/>
The Duke must grant me that: besides, his picture<br/>
The Duke must grant me that: besides, his picture<br/>
I will send far and near, that all the kingdom<br/>
I will send far and near, that all the kingdom<br/>
May have due note of him; and of my land,<br/>
May have due note of him; and of my land,<br/>
Loyal and natural boy, I'll work the means<br/>
Loyal and natural boy, I'll work the means<br/>
To make thee capable.
To make thee capable.
</p>
</p>


<p class="scenedesc"> Enter <span class="charname">Cornwall, Regan</span> and
<p class="scenedesc"> Enter <span class="charname">Cornwall, Regan</span> and
Attendants.</p>
Attendants.</p>


<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
How now, my noble friend! since I came hither,<br/>
How now, my noble friend! since I came hither,<br/>
Which I can call but now, I have heard strange news.
Which I can call but now, I have heard strange news.
</p>
</p>


<p>REGAN.<br/>
<p>REGAN.<br/>
If it be true, all vengeance comes too short<br/>
If it be true, all vengeance comes too short<br/>
Which can pursue th'offender. How dost, my lord?
Which can pursue th'offender. How dost, my lord?
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
O madam, my old heart is crack'd, it's crack'd!
O madam, my old heart is crack'd, it's crack'd!
</p>
</p>


<p>REGAN.<br/>
<p>REGAN.<br/>
What, did my father's godson seek your life?<br/>
What, did my father's godson seek your life?<br/>
He whom my father nam'd? your Edgar?
He whom my father nam'd? your Edgar?
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
O lady, lady, shame would have it hid!
O lady, lady, shame would have it hid!
</p>
</p>


<p>REGAN.<br/>
<p>REGAN.<br/>
Was he not companion with the riotous knights<br/>
Was he not companion with the riotous knights<br/>
That tend upon my father?
That tend upon my father?
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
I know not, madam; 'tis too bad, too bad.
I know not, madam; 'tis too bad, too bad.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
Yes, madam, he was of that consort.
Yes, madam, he was of that consort.
</p>
</p>


<p>REGAN.<br/>
<p>REGAN.<br/>
No marvel then though he were ill affected:<br/>
No marvel then though he were ill affected:<br/>
'Tis they have put him on the old man's death,<br/>
'Tis they have put him on the old man's death,<br/>
To have the expense and waste of his revenues.<br/>
To have the expense and waste of his revenues.<br/>
I have this present evening from my sister<br/>
I have this present evening from my sister<br/>
Been well inform'd of them; and with such cautions<br/>
Been well inform'd of them; and with such cautions<br/>
That if they come to sojourn at my house,<br/>
That if they come to sojourn at my house,<br/>
I'll not be there.
I'll not be there.
</p>
</p>


<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
Nor I, assure thee, Regan.<br/>
Nor I, assure thee, Regan.<br/>
Edmund, I hear that you have shown your father<br/>
Edmund, I hear that you have shown your father<br/>
A childlike office.
A childlike office.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
It was my duty, sir.
It was my duty, sir.
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
He did bewray his practice; and receiv'd<br/>
He did bewray his practice; and receiv'd<br/>
This hurt you see, striving to apprehend him.
This hurt you see, striving to apprehend him.
</p>
</p>


<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
Is he pursued?
Is he pursued?
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
Ay, my good lord.
Ay, my good lord.
</p>
</p>


<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
If he be taken, he shall never more<br/>
If he be taken, he shall never more<br/>
Be fear'd of doing harm: make your own purpose,<br/>
Be fear'd of doing harm: make your own purpose,<br/>
How in my strength you please. For you, Edmund,<br/>
How in my strength you please. For you, Edmund,<br/>
Whose virtue and obedience doth this instant<br/>
Whose virtue and obedience doth this instant<br/>
So much commend itself, you shall be ours:<br/>
So much commend itself, you shall be ours:<br/>
Natures of such deep trust we shall much need;<br/>
Natures of such deep trust we shall much need;<br/>
You we first seize on.
You we first seize on.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
I shall serve you, sir, truly, however else.
I shall serve you, sir, truly, however else.
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
For him I thank your grace.
For him I thank your grace.
</p>
</p>


<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
You know not why we came to visit you?
You know not why we came to visit you?
</p>
</p>


<p>REGAN.<br/>
<p>REGAN.<br/>
Thus out of season, threading dark-ey'd night:<br/>
Thus out of season, threading dark-ey'd night:<br/>
Occasions, noble Gloucester, of some poise,<br/>
Occasions, noble Gloucester, of some poise,<br/>
Wherein we must have use of your advice.<br/>
Wherein we must have use of your advice.<br/>
Our father he hath writ, so hath our sister,<br/>
Our father he hath writ, so hath our sister,<br/>
Of differences, which I best thought it fit<br/>
Of differences, which I best thought it fit<br/>
To answer from our home; the several messengers<br/>
To answer from our home; the several messengers<br/>
From hence attend dispatch. Our good old friend,<br/>
From hence attend dispatch. Our good old friend,<br/>
Lay comforts to your bosom; and bestow<br/>
Lay comforts to your bosom; and bestow<br/>
Your needful counsel to our business,<br/>
Your needful counsel to our business,<br/>
Which craves the instant use.
Which craves the instant use.
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
I serve you, madam:<br/>
I serve you, madam:<br/>
Your graces are right welcome.
Your graces are right welcome.
</p>
</p>


Line 2,205: Line 3,564:


<p class="scenedesc"> Enter <span class="charname">Kent and Oswald</span>,
<p class="scenedesc"> Enter <span class="charname">Kent and Oswald</span>,
severally.</p>
severally.</p>


<p>OSWALD.<br/>
<p>OSWALD.<br/>
Good dawning to thee, friend: art of this house?
Good dawning to thee, friend: art of this house?
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
Ay.
Ay.
</p>
</p>


<p>OSWALD.<br/>
<p>OSWALD.<br/>
Where may we set our horses?
Where may we set our horses?
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
I' the mire.
I' the mire.
</p>
</p>


<p>OSWALD.<br/>
<p>OSWALD.<br/>
Prythee, if thou lov'st me, tell me.
Prythee, if thou lov'st me, tell me.
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
I love thee not.
I love thee not.
</p>
</p>


<p>OSWALD.<br/>
<p>OSWALD.<br/>
Why then, I care not for thee.
Why then, I care not for thee.
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
If I had thee in Lipsbury pinfold, I would make thee care for me.
If I had thee in Lipsbury pinfold, I would make thee care for me.
</p>
</p>


<p>OSWALD.<br/>
<p>OSWALD.<br/>
Why dost thou use me thus? I know thee not.
Why dost thou use me thus? I know thee not.
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
Fellow, I know thee.
Fellow, I know thee.
</p>
</p>


<p>OSWALD.<br/>
<p>OSWALD.<br/>
What dost thou know me for?
What dost thou know me for?
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
A knave; a rascal; an eater of broken meats; a base, proud,
A knave; a rascal; an eater of broken meats; a base, proud,
shallow, beggarly, three-suited, hundred-pound, filthy,
shallow, beggarly, three-suited, hundred-pound, filthy,
worsted-stocking knave; a lily-livered, action-taking, whoreson,
worsted-stocking knave; a lily-livered, action-taking, whoreson,
glass-gazing, super-serviceable, finical rogue;
glass-gazing, super-serviceable, finical rogue;
one trunk-inheriting slave; one that wouldst be a bawd in way of
one trunk-inheriting slave; one that wouldst be a bawd in way of
good service, and art nothing but the composition of a
good service, and art nothing but the composition of a
knave, beggar, coward, pander, and the son and heir of a mongrel
knave, beggar, coward, pander, and the son and heir of a mongrel
bitch: one whom I will beat into clamorous whining, if thou
bitch: one whom I will beat into clamorous whining, if thou
deniest the least syllable of thy addition.</p>
deniest the least syllable of thy addition.</p>


<p>OSWALD.<br/>
<p>OSWALD.<br/>
Why, what a monstrous fellow art thou, thus to rail on one that's
Why, what a monstrous fellow art thou, thus to rail on one that's
neither known of thee nor knows thee?</p>
neither known of thee nor knows thee?</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
What a brazen-faced varlet art thou, to deny thou knowest me! Is
What a brazen-faced varlet art thou, to deny thou knowest me! Is
it two days ago since I tripped up thy heels and beat thee before
it two days ago since I tripped up thy heels and beat thee before
the King? Draw, you rogue: for, though it be night, yet the moon
the King? Draw, you rogue: for, though it be night, yet the moon
shines; I'll make a sop o' the moonshine of you: draw, you
shines; I'll make a sop o' the moonshine of you: draw, you
whoreson cullionly barber-monger, draw!</p>
whoreson cullionly barber-monger, draw!</p>


Line 2,276: Line 3,674:


<p>OSWALD.<br/>
<p>OSWALD.<br/>
Away! I have nothing to do with thee.
Away! I have nothing to do with thee.
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
Draw, you rascal: you come with letters against the King; and
Draw, you rascal: you come with letters against the King; and
take vanity the puppet's part against the royalty of her father:
take vanity the puppet's part against the royalty of her father:
draw, you rogue, or I'll so carbonado your shanks:&mdash;draw, you rascal;
 
draw, you rogue, or I'll so carbonado your shanks:&amp;mdash;draw, you rascal;
 
come your ways!</p>
come your ways!</p>


<p>OSWALD.<br/>
<p>OSWALD.<br/>
Help, ho! murder! help!
Help, ho! murder! help!
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
Strike, you slave; stand, rogue, stand; you neat slave, strike!
Strike, you slave; stand, rogue, stand; you neat slave, strike!
</p>
</p>


Line 2,296: Line 3,704:


<p>OSWALD.<br/>
<p>OSWALD.<br/>
Help, ho! murder! murder!
Help, ho! murder! murder!
</p>
</p>


<p class="scenedesc"> Enter <span class="charname">Edmund, Cornwall, Regan,
<p class="scenedesc"> Enter <span class="charname">Edmund, Cornwall, Regan,
Gloucester</span> and Servants.</p>
Gloucester</span> and Servants.</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
How now! What's the matter? Part!
How now! What's the matter? Part!
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
With you, goodman boy, if you please: come, I'll flesh ye; come
With you, goodman boy, if you please: come, I'll flesh ye; come
on, young master.</p>
on, young master.</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
Weapons! arms! What's the matter here?
Weapons! arms! What's the matter here?
</p>
</p>


<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
Keep peace, upon your lives, he dies that strikes again. What is the matter?
Keep peace, upon your lives, he dies that strikes again. What is the matter?
</p>
</p>


<p>REGAN.<br/>
<p>REGAN.<br/>
The messengers from our sister and the King.
The messengers from our sister and the King.
</p>
</p>


<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
What is your difference? Speak.
What is your difference? Speak.
</p>
</p>


<p>OSWALD.<br/>
<p>OSWALD.<br/>
I am scarce in breath, my lord.
I am scarce in breath, my lord.
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
No marvel, you have so bestirr'd your valour. You cowardly
No marvel, you have so bestirr'd your valour. You cowardly
rascal, nature disclaims in thee; a tailor made thee.</p>
rascal, nature disclaims in thee; a tailor made thee.</p>


<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
Thou art a strange fellow: a tailor make a man?
Thou art a strange fellow: a tailor make a man?
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
Ay, a tailor, sir: a stonecutter or a painter could not have
Ay, a tailor, sir: a stonecutter or a painter could not have
made him so ill, though he had been but two years at the trade.</p>
made him so ill, though he had been but two years at the trade.</p>


<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
Speak yet, how grew your quarrel?
Speak yet, how grew your quarrel?
</p>
</p>


<p>OSWALD.<br/>
<p>OSWALD.<br/>
This ancient ruffian, sir, whose life I have spared at suit of his grey
This ancient ruffian, sir, whose life I have spared at suit of his grey
beard,&mdash;
 
beard,&amp;mdash;
 
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
Thou whoreson zed! thou unnecessary letter! My lord, if you'll
Thou whoreson zed! thou unnecessary letter! My lord, if you'll
give me leave, I will tread this unbolted villain into mortar and
give me leave, I will tread this unbolted villain into mortar and
daub the walls of a jakes with him. Spare my grey beard, you wagtail?
daub the walls of a jakes with him. Spare my grey beard, you wagtail?
</p>
</p>


<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
Peace, sirrah!<br/>
Peace, sirrah!<br/>
You beastly knave, know you no reverence?
You beastly knave, know you no reverence?
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
Yes, sir; but anger hath a privilege.
Yes, sir; but anger hath a privilege.
</p>
</p>


<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
Why art thou angry?
Why art thou angry?
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
That such a slave as this should wear a sword,<br/>
That such a slave as this should wear a sword,<br/>
Who wears no honesty. Such smiling rogues as these,<br/>
Who wears no honesty. Such smiling rogues as these,<br/>
Like rats, oft bite the holy cords a-twain<br/>
Like rats, oft bite the holy cords a-twain<br/>
Which are too intrince t'unloose; smooth every passion<br/>
Which are too intrince t'unloose; smooth every passion<br/>
That in the natures of their lords rebel;<br/>
That in the natures of their lords rebel;<br/>
Bring oil to fire, snow to their colder moods;<br/>
Bring oil to fire, snow to their colder moods;<br/>
Renege, affirm, and turn their halcyon beaks<br/>
Renege, affirm, and turn their halcyon beaks<br/>
With every gale and vary of their masters,<br/>
With every gale and vary of their masters,<br/>
Knowing naught, like dogs, but following.<br/>
Knowing naught, like dogs, but following.<br/>
A plague upon your epileptic visage!<br/>
A plague upon your epileptic visage!<br/>
Smile you my speeches, as I were a fool?<br/>
Smile you my speeches, as I were a fool?<br/>
Goose, if I had you upon Sarum plain,<br/>
Goose, if I had you upon Sarum plain,<br/>
I'd drive ye cackling home to Camelot.
I'd drive ye cackling home to Camelot.
</p>
</p>


<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
What, art thou mad, old fellow?
What, art thou mad, old fellow?
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
How fell you out? Say that.
How fell you out? Say that.
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
No contraries hold more antipathy<br/>
No contraries hold more antipathy<br/>
Than I and such a knave.
Than I and such a knave.
</p>
</p>


<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
Why dost thou call him knave? What is his fault?
Why dost thou call him knave? What is his fault?
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
His countenance likes me not.
His countenance likes me not.
</p>
</p>


<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
No more perchance does mine, or his, or hers.
No more perchance does mine, or his, or hers.
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
Sir, 'tis my occupation to be plain:<br/>
Sir, 'tis my occupation to be plain:<br/>
I have seen better faces in my time<br/>
I have seen better faces in my time<br/>
Than stands on any shoulder that I see<br/>
Than stands on any shoulder that I see<br/>
Before me at this instant.
Before me at this instant.
</p>
</p>


<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
This is some fellow<br/>
This is some fellow<br/>
Who, having been prais'd for bluntness, doth affect<br/>
Who, having been prais'd for bluntness, doth affect<br/>
A saucy roughness, and constrains the garb<br/>
A saucy roughness, and constrains the garb<br/>
Quite from his nature: he cannot flatter, he,<br/>
Quite from his nature: he cannot flatter, he,<br/>
An honest mind and plain, he must speak truth!<br/>
An honest mind and plain, he must speak truth!<br/>
An they will take it, so; if not, he's plain.<br/>
An they will take it, so; if not, he's plain.<br/>
These kind of knaves I know which in this plainness<br/>
These kind of knaves I know which in this plainness<br/>
Harbour more craft and more corrupter ends<br/>
Harbour more craft and more corrupter ends<br/>
Than twenty silly-ducking observants<br/>
Than twenty silly-ducking observants<br/>
That stretch their duties nicely.
That stretch their duties nicely.
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
Sir, in good faith, in sincere verity,<br/>
Sir, in good faith, in sincere verity,<br/>
Under th'allowance of your great aspect,<br/>
Under th'allowance of your great aspect,<br/>
Whose influence, like the wreath of radiant fire<br/>
Whose influence, like the wreath of radiant fire<br/>
On flickering Phoebus' front,&mdash;
 
On flickering Phoebus' front,&amp;mdash;
 
</p>
</p>


<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
What mean'st by this?
What mean'st by this?
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
To go out of my dialect, which you discommend so much. I know,
To go out of my dialect, which you discommend so much. I know,
sir, I am no flatterer: he that beguiled you in a plain accent
sir, I am no flatterer: he that beguiled you in a plain accent
was a plain knave; which, for my part, I will not be, though I
was a plain knave; which, for my part, I will not be, though I
should win your displeasure to entreat me to't.</p>
should win your displeasure to entreat me to't.</p>


<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
What was the offence you gave him?
What was the offence you gave him?
</p>
</p>


<p>OSWALD.<br/>
<p>OSWALD.<br/>
I never gave him any:<br/>
I never gave him any:<br/>
It pleas'd the King his master very late<br/>
It pleas'd the King his master very late<br/>
To strike at me, upon his misconstruction;<br/>
To strike at me, upon his misconstruction;<br/>
When he, compact, and flattering his displeasure,<br/>
When he, compact, and flattering his displeasure,<br/>
Tripp'd me behind; being down, insulted, rail'd<br/>
Tripp'd me behind; being down, insulted, rail'd<br/>
And put upon him such a deal of man,<br/>
And put upon him such a deal of man,<br/>
That worthied him, got praises of the King<br/>
That worthied him, got praises of the King<br/>
For him attempting who was self-subdu'd;<br/>
For him attempting who was self-subdu'd;<br/>
And, in the fleshment of this dread exploit,<br/>
And, in the fleshment of this dread exploit,<br/>
Drew on me here again.
Drew on me here again.
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
None of these rogues and cowards<br/>
None of these rogues and cowards<br/>
But Ajax is their fool.
But Ajax is their fool.
</p>
</p>


<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
Fetch forth the stocks!<br/>
Fetch forth the stocks!<br/>
You stubborn ancient knave, you reverent braggart,<br/>
You stubborn ancient knave, you reverent braggart,<br/>
We'll teach you.
We'll teach you.
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
Sir, I am too old to learn:<br/>
Sir, I am too old to learn:<br/>
Call not your stocks for me: I serve the King;<br/>
Call not your stocks for me: I serve the King;<br/>
On whose employment I was sent to you:<br/>
On whose employment I was sent to you:<br/>
You shall do small respect, show too bold malice<br/>
You shall do small respect, show too bold malice<br/>
Against the grace and person of my master,<br/>
Against the grace and person of my master,<br/>
Stocking his messenger.
Stocking his messenger.
</p>
</p>


<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
Fetch forth the stocks!<br/>
Fetch forth the stocks!<br/>
As I have life and honour, there shall he sit till noon.</p>
As I have life and honour, there shall he sit till noon.</p>


<p>REGAN.<br/>
<p>REGAN.<br/>
Till noon! Till night, my lord; and all night too!
Till noon! Till night, my lord; and all night too!
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
Why, madam, if I were your father's dog,<br/>
Why, madam, if I were your father's dog,<br/>
You should not use me so.
You should not use me so.
</p>
</p>


<p>REGAN.<br/>
<p>REGAN.<br/>
Sir, being his knave, I will.
Sir, being his knave, I will.
</p>
</p>


Line 2,505: Line 4,042:


<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
This is a fellow of the selfsame colour<br/>
This is a fellow of the selfsame colour<br/>
Our sister speaks of. Come, bring away the stocks!
Our sister speaks of. Come, bring away the stocks!
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
Let me beseech your grace not to do so:<br/>
Let me beseech your grace not to do so:<br/>
His fault is much, and the good King his master<br/>
His fault is much, and the good King his master<br/>
Will check him for't: your purpos'd low correction<br/>
Will check him for't: your purpos'd low correction<br/>
Is such as basest and contemned'st wretches<br/>
Is such as basest and contemned'st wretches<br/>
For pilferings and most common trespasses,<br/>
For pilferings and most common trespasses,<br/>
Are punish'd with. The King must take it ill<br/>
Are punish'd with. The King must take it ill<br/>
That he, so slightly valued in his messenger,<br/>
That he, so slightly valued in his messenger,<br/>
Should have him thus restrained.
Should have him thus restrained.
</p>
</p>


<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
I'll answer that.
I'll answer that.
</p>
</p>


<p>REGAN.<br/>
<p>REGAN.<br/>
My sister may receive it much more worse,<br/>
My sister may receive it much more worse,<br/>
To have her gentleman abus'd, assaulted,<br/>
To have her gentleman abus'd, assaulted,<br/>
For following her affairs. Put in his legs.
For following her affairs. Put in his legs.
</p>
</p>


<p class="right"> [<i><span class="charname">Kent</span> is put in the
<p class="right"> [<i><span class="charname">Kent</span> is put in the
stocks.</i>]</p>
stocks.</i>]</p>


<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
Come, my good lord, away.
Come, my good lord, away.
</p>
</p>


<p class="right"> [<i>Exeunt all but <span class="charname">Gloucester</span>
<p class="right"> [<i>Exeunt all but <span class="charname">Gloucester</span>
and <span class="charname">Kent</span>.</i>]</p>
and <span class="charname">Kent</span>.</i>]</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
I am sorry for thee, friend; 'tis the Duke's pleasure,<br/>
I am sorry for thee, friend; 'tis the Duke's pleasure,<br/>
Whose disposition, all the world well knows,<br/>
Whose disposition, all the world well knows,<br/>
Will not be rubb'd nor stopp'd; I'll entreat for thee.
Will not be rubb'd nor stopp'd; I'll entreat for thee.
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
Pray do not, sir: I have watch'd, and travell'd hard;<br/>
Pray do not, sir: I have watch'd, and travell'd hard;<br/>
Some time I shall sleep out, the rest I'll whistle.<br/>
Some time I shall sleep out, the rest I'll whistle.<br/>
A good man's fortune may grow out at heels:<br/>
A good man's fortune may grow out at heels:<br/>
Give you good morrow!
Give you good morrow!
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
The Duke's to blame in this: 'twill be ill taken.
The Duke's to blame in this: 'twill be ill taken.
</p>
</p>


Line 2,560: Line 4,130:


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
Good King, that must approve the common saw,<br/>
Good King, that must approve the common saw,<br/>
Thou out of heaven's benediction com'st<br/>
Thou out of heaven's benediction com'st<br/>
To the warm sun.<br/>
To the warm sun.<br/>
Approach, thou beacon to this under globe,<br/>
Approach, thou beacon to this under globe,<br/>
That by thy comfortable beams I may<br/>
That by thy comfortable beams I may<br/>
Peruse this letter. Nothing almost sees miracles<br/>
Peruse this letter. Nothing almost sees miracles<br/>
But misery. I know 'tis from Cordelia,<br/>
But misery. I know 'tis from Cordelia,<br/>
Who hath most fortunately been inform'd<br/>
Who hath most fortunately been inform'd<br/>
Of my obscured course. And shall find time<br/>
Of my obscured course. And shall find time<br/>
From this enormous state, seeking to give<br/>
From this enormous state, seeking to give<br/>
Losses their remedies. All weary and o'erwatch'd,<br/>
Losses their remedies. All weary and o'erwatch'd,<br/>
Take vantage, heavy eyes, not to behold<br/>
Take vantage, heavy eyes, not to behold<br/>
This shameful lodging.<br/>
This shameful lodging.<br/>
Fortune, good night: smile once more, turn thy wheel!
Fortune, good night: smile once more, turn thy wheel!
</p>
</p>


Line 2,583: Line 4,168:


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
I heard myself proclaim'd,<br/>
I heard myself proclaim'd,<br/>
And by the happy hollow of a tree<br/>
And by the happy hollow of a tree<br/>
Escap'd the hunt. No port is free, no place<br/>
Escap'd the hunt. No port is free, no place<br/>
That guard and most unusual vigilance<br/>
That guard and most unusual vigilance<br/>
Does not attend my taking. While I may scape<br/>
Does not attend my taking. While I may scape<br/>
I will preserve myself: and am bethought<br/>
I will preserve myself: and am bethought<br/>
To take the basest and most poorest shape<br/>
To take the basest and most poorest shape<br/>
That ever penury in contempt of man,<br/>
That ever penury in contempt of man,<br/>
Brought near to beast: my face I'll grime with filth,<br/>
Brought near to beast: my face I'll grime with filth,<br/>
Blanket my loins; elf all my hair in knots,<br/>
Blanket my loins; elf all my hair in knots,<br/>
And with presented nakedness outface<br/>
And with presented nakedness outface<br/>
The winds and persecutions of the sky.<br/>
The winds and persecutions of the sky.<br/>
The country gives me proof and precedent<br/>
The country gives me proof and precedent<br/>
Of Bedlam beggars, who, with roaring voices,<br/>
Of Bedlam beggars, who, with roaring voices,<br/>
Strike in their numb'd and mortified bare arms<br/>
Strike in their numb'd and mortified bare arms<br/>
Pins, wooden pricks, nails, sprigs of rosemary;<br/>
Pins, wooden pricks, nails, sprigs of rosemary;<br/>
And with this horrible object, from low farms,<br/>
And with this horrible object, from low farms,<br/>
Poor pelting villages, sheep-cotes, and mills,<br/>
Poor pelting villages, sheep-cotes, and mills,<br/>
Sometime with lunatic bans, sometime with prayers,<br/>
Sometime with lunatic bans, sometime with prayers,<br/>
Enforce their charity. Poor Turlygod! poor Tom,<br/>
Enforce their charity. Poor Turlygod! poor Tom,<br/>
That's something yet: Edgar I nothing am.
That's something yet: Edgar I nothing am.
</p>
</p>


Line 2,611: Line 4,218:


<p class="scenedesc"> Enter <span class="charname">Lear, Fool</span> and <span
<p class="scenedesc"> Enter <span class="charname">Lear, Fool</span> and <span
class="charname">Gentleman</span>.</p>
class="charname">Gentleman</span>.</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
'Tis strange that they should so depart from home,<br/>
'Tis strange that they should so depart from home,<br/>
And not send back my messenger.
And not send back my messenger.
</p>
</p>


<p>GENTLEMAN.<br/>
<p>GENTLEMAN.<br/>
As I learn'd,<br/>
As I learn'd,<br/>
The night before there was no purpose in them<br/>
The night before there was no purpose in them<br/>
Of this remove.
Of this remove.
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
Hail to thee, noble master!
Hail to thee, noble master!
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Ha! Mak'st thou this shame thy pastime?
Ha! Mak'st thou this shame thy pastime?
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
No, my lord.
No, my lord.
</p>
</p>


<p>FOOL.<br/>
<p>FOOL.<br/>
Ha, ha! he wears cruel garters. Horses are tied by the
Ha, ha! he wears cruel garters. Horses are tied by the
heads; dogs and bears by the neck, monkeys by the loins, and
heads; dogs and bears by the neck, monkeys by the loins, and
men by the legs: when a man is overlusty at legs, then he
men by the legs: when a man is overlusty at legs, then he
wears wooden nether-stocks.</p>
wears wooden nether-stocks.</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
What's he that hath so much thy place mistook<br/>
What's he that hath so much thy place mistook<br/>
To set thee here?
To set thee here?
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
It is both he and she,<br/>
It is both he and she,<br/>
Your son and daughter.
Your son and daughter.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
No.
No.
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
Yes.
Yes.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
No, I say.
No, I say.
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
I say, yea.
I say, yea.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
No, no; they would not.
No, no; they would not.
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
Yes, they have.
Yes, they have.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
By Jupiter, I swear no.
By Jupiter, I swear no.
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
By Juno, I swear ay.
By Juno, I swear ay.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
They durst not do't.<br/>
They durst not do't.<br/>
They could not, would not do't; 'tis worse than murder,<br/>
They could not, would not do't; 'tis worse than murder,<br/>
To do upon respect such violent outrage:<br/>
To do upon respect such violent outrage:<br/>
Resolve me, with all modest haste, which way<br/>
Resolve me, with all modest haste, which way<br/>
Thou mightst deserve or they impose this usage,<br/>
Thou mightst deserve or they impose this usage,<br/>
Coming from us.
Coming from us.
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
My lord, when at their home<br/>
My lord, when at their home<br/>
I did commend your highness' letters to them,<br/>
I did commend your highness' letters to them,<br/>
Ere I was risen from the place that show'd<br/>
Ere I was risen from the place that show'd<br/>
My duty kneeling, came there a reeking post,<br/>
My duty kneeling, came there a reeking post,<br/>
Stew'd in his haste, half breathless, panting forth<br/>
Stew'd in his haste, half breathless, panting forth<br/>
From Goneril his mistress salutations;<br/>
From Goneril his mistress salutations;<br/>
Deliver'd letters, spite of intermission,<br/>
Deliver'd letters, spite of intermission,<br/>
Which presently they read; on those contents,<br/>
Which presently they read; on those contents,<br/>
They summon'd up their meiny, straight took horse;<br/>
They summon'd up their meiny, straight took horse;<br/>
Commanded me to follow and attend<br/>
Commanded me to follow and attend<br/>
The leisure of their answer; gave me cold looks:<br/>
The leisure of their answer; gave me cold looks:<br/>
And meeting here the other messenger,<br/>
And meeting here the other messenger,<br/>
Whose welcome I perceiv'd had poison'd mine,<br/>
Whose welcome I perceiv'd had poison'd mine,<br/>
Being the very fellow which of late<br/>
Being the very fellow which of late<br/>
Display'd so saucily against your highness,<br/>
Display'd so saucily against your highness,<br/>
Having more man than wit about me, drew;<br/>
Having more man than wit about me, drew;<br/>
He rais'd the house with loud and coward cries.<br/>
He rais'd the house with loud and coward cries.<br/>
Your son and daughter found this trespass worth<br/>
Your son and daughter found this trespass worth<br/>
The shame which here it suffers.
The shame which here it suffers.
</p>
</p>


<p>FOOL.<br/>
<p>FOOL.<br/>
Winter's not gone yet, if the wild geese fly that way.<br/>
Winter's not gone yet, if the wild geese fly that way.<br/>
   Fathers that wear rags<br/>
   Fathers that wear rags<br/>
     Do make their children blind,<br/>
     Do make their children blind,<br/>
   But fathers that bear bags<br/>
   But fathers that bear bags<br/>
     Shall see their children kind.<br/>
     Shall see their children kind.<br/>
   Fortune, that arrant whore,<br/>
   Fortune, that arrant whore,<br/>
   Ne'er turns the key to th' poor.<br/>
   Ne'er turns the key to th' poor.<br/>
But for all this, thou shalt have as many dolours for thy
But for all this, thou shalt have as many dolours for thy
daughters as thou canst tell in a year.
daughters as thou canst tell in a year.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
O, how this mother swells up toward my heart!<br/>
O, how this mother swells up toward my heart!<br/>
<i>Hysterica passio</i>, down, thou climbing sorrow,<br/>
<i>Hysterica passio</i>, down, thou climbing sorrow,<br/>
Thy element's below! Where is this daughter?
Thy element's below! Where is this daughter?
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
With the earl, sir, here within.
With the earl, sir, here within.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Follow me not; stay here.
Follow me not; stay here.
</p>
</p>


Line 2,744: Line 4,436:


<p>GENTLEMAN.<br/>
<p>GENTLEMAN.<br/>
Made you no more offence but what you speak of?
Made you no more offence but what you speak of?
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
None.<br/>
None.<br/>
How chance the King comes with so small a number?
How chance the King comes with so small a number?
</p>
</p>


<p>FOOL.<br/>
<p>FOOL.<br/>
An thou hadst been set i' the stocks for that question,
An thou hadst been set i' the stocks for that question,
thou hadst well deserved it.</p>
thou hadst well deserved it.</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
Why, fool?
Why, fool?
</p>
</p>


<p>FOOL.<br/>
<p>FOOL.<br/>
We'll set thee to school to an ant, to teach thee there's no
We'll set thee to school to an ant, to teach thee there's no
labouring i'the winter. All that follow their noses are led by
labouring i'the winter. All that follow their noses are led by
their eyes but blind men; and there's not a nose among twenty
their eyes but blind men; and there's not a nose among twenty
but can smell him that's stinking. Let go thy hold when a great
but can smell him that's stinking. Let go thy hold when a great
wheel runs down a hill, lest it break thy neck with following
wheel runs down a hill, lest it break thy neck with following
it; but the great one that goes upward, let him draw thee after.
it; but the great one that goes upward, let him draw thee after.
When a wise man gives thee better counsel, give me mine again: I
When a wise man gives thee better counsel, give me mine again: I
would have none but knaves follow it, since a fool gives it.<br/>
would have none but knaves follow it, since a fool gives it.<br/>
           That sir which serves and seeks for gain,<br/>
           That sir which serves and seeks for gain,<br/>
             And follows but for form,<br/>
             And follows but for form,<br/>
           Will pack when it begins to rain,<br/>
           Will pack when it begins to rain,<br/>
             And leave thee in the storm.<br/>
             And leave thee in the storm.<br/>
           But I will tarry; the fool will stay,<br/>
           But I will tarry; the fool will stay,<br/>
             And let the wise man fly:<br/>
             And let the wise man fly:<br/>
           The knave turns fool that runs away;<br/>
           The knave turns fool that runs away;<br/>
             The fool no knave perdy.
             The fool no knave perdy.
     </p>
     </p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
Where learn'd you this, fool?
Where learn'd you this, fool?
</p>
</p>


<p>FOOL.<br/>
<p>FOOL.<br/>
Not i' the stocks, fool.
Not i' the stocks, fool.
</p>
</p>


<p class="scenedesc"> Enter <span class="charname">Lear</span> and <span
<p class="scenedesc"> Enter <span class="charname">Lear</span> and <span
class="charname">Gloucester</span>.</p>
class="charname">Gloucester</span>.</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Deny to speak with me? They are sick? they are weary?<br/>
Deny to speak with me? They are sick? they are weary?<br/>
They have travell'd all the night? Mere fetches;<br/>
They have travell'd all the night? Mere fetches;<br/>
The images of revolt and flying off.<br/>
The images of revolt and flying off.<br/>
Fetch me a better answer.
Fetch me a better answer.
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
My dear lord,<br/>
My dear lord,<br/>
You know the fiery quality of the Duke;<br/>
You know the fiery quality of the Duke;<br/>
How unremovable and fix'd he is<br/>
How unremovable and fix'd he is<br/>
In his own course.
In his own course.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Vengeance! plague! death! confusion!<br/>
Vengeance! plague! death! confusion!<br/>
Fiery? What quality? Why, Gloucester, Gloucester,<br/>
Fiery? What quality? Why, Gloucester, Gloucester,<br/>
I'd speak with the Duke of Cornwall and his wife.
I'd speak with the Duke of Cornwall and his wife.
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
Well, my good lord, I have inform'd them so.
Well, my good lord, I have inform'd them so.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Inform'd them! Dost thou understand me, man?
Inform'd them! Dost thou understand me, man?
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
Ay, my good lord.
Ay, my good lord.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
The King would speak with Cornwall; the dear father<br/>
The King would speak with Cornwall; the dear father<br/>
Would with his daughter speak, commands, tends, service,<br/>
Would with his daughter speak, commands, tends, service,<br/>
Are they inform'd of this? My breath and blood!<br/>
Are they inform'd of this? My breath and blood!<br/>
Fiery? The fiery Duke, tell the hot Duke that&mdash;<br/>
 
Fiery? The fiery Duke, tell the hot Duke that&amp;mdash;<br/>
 
No, but not yet: maybe he is not well:<br/>
No, but not yet: maybe he is not well:<br/>
Infirmity doth still neglect all office<br/>
Infirmity doth still neglect all office<br/>
Whereto our health is bound: we are not ourselves<br/>
Whereto our health is bound: we are not ourselves<br/>
When nature, being oppress'd, commands the mind<br/>
When nature, being oppress'd, commands the mind<br/>
To suffer with the body: I'll forbear;<br/>
To suffer with the body: I'll forbear;<br/>
And am fallen out with my more headier will,<br/>
And am fallen out with my more headier will,<br/>
To take the indispos'd and sickly fit<br/>
To take the indispos'd and sickly fit<br/>
For the sound man. [<i>Looking on Kent.</i>]<br/>
For the sound man. [<i>Looking on Kent.</i>]<br/>
Death on my state! Wherefore<br/>
Death on my state! Wherefore<br/>
Should he sit here? This act persuades me<br/>
Should he sit here? This act persuades me<br/>
That this remotion of the Duke and her<br/>
That this remotion of the Duke and her<br/>
Is practice only. Give me my servant forth.<br/>
Is practice only. Give me my servant forth.<br/>
Go tell the Duke and's wife I'd speak with them,<br/>
Go tell the Duke and's wife I'd speak with them,<br/>
Now, presently: bid them come forth and hear me,<br/>
Now, presently: bid them come forth and hear me,<br/>
Or at their chamber door I'll beat the drum<br/>
Or at their chamber door I'll beat the drum<br/>
Till it cry sleep to death.
Till it cry sleep to death.
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
I would have all well betwixt you.
I would have all well betwixt you.
</p>
</p>


Line 2,852: Line 4,618:


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
O me, my heart, my rising heart! But down!
O me, my heart, my rising heart! But down!
</p>
</p>


<p>FOOL.<br/>
<p>FOOL.<br/>
Cry to it, nuncle, as the cockney did to the eels when she put 'em
Cry to it, nuncle, as the cockney did to the eels when she put 'em
i' the paste alive; she knapped 'em o' the coxcombs
i' the paste alive; she knapped 'em o' the coxcombs
with a stick and cried 'Down, wantons, down!' 'Twas
with a stick and cried 'Down, wantons, down!' 'Twas
her brother that, in pure kindness to his horse buttered his hay.
her brother that, in pure kindness to his horse buttered his hay.
</p>
</p>


<p class="scenedesc"> Enter <span class="charname">Cornwall, Regan,
<p class="scenedesc"> Enter <span class="charname">Cornwall, Regan,
Gloucester</span> and Servants.</p>
Gloucester</span> and Servants.</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Good morrow to you both.
Good morrow to you both.
</p>
</p>


<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
Hail to your grace!
Hail to your grace!
</p>
</p>


<p class="right"> [<i><span class="charname">Kent</span> here set at
<p class="right"> [<i><span class="charname">Kent</span> here set at
liberty.</i>]</p>
liberty.</i>]</p>


<p>REGAN.<br/>
<p>REGAN.<br/>
I am glad to see your highness.
I am glad to see your highness.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Regan, I think you are; I know what reason<br/>
Regan, I think you are; I know what reason<br/>
I have to think so: if thou shouldst not be glad,<br/>
I have to think so: if thou shouldst not be glad,<br/>
I would divorce me from thy mother's tomb,<br/>
I would divorce me from thy mother's tomb,<br/>
Sepulchring an adultress. [<i>To Kent</i>] O, are you free?<br/>
Sepulchring an adultress. [<i>To Kent</i>] O, are you free?<br/>
Some other time for that.&mdash;Beloved Regan,<br/>
 
Some other time for that.&amp;mdash;Beloved Regan,<br/>
 
Thy sister's naught: O Regan, she hath tied<br/>
Thy sister's naught: O Regan, she hath tied<br/>
Sharp-tooth'd unkindness, like a vulture, here.
Sharp-tooth'd unkindness, like a vulture, here.
</p>
</p>


Line 2,893: Line 4,682:


<p>I can scarce speak to thee; thou'lt not believe<br/>
<p>I can scarce speak to thee; thou'lt not believe<br/>
With how deprav'd a quality&mdash;O Regan!
 
With how deprav'd a quality&amp;mdash;O Regan!
 
</p>
</p>


<p>REGAN.<br/>
<p>REGAN.<br/>
I pray you, sir, take patience. I have hope<br/>
I pray you, sir, take patience. I have hope<br/>
You less know how to value her desert<br/>
You less know how to value her desert<br/>
Than she to scant her duty.
Than she to scant her duty.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Say, how is that?
Say, how is that?
</p>
</p>


<p>REGAN.<br/>
<p>REGAN.<br/>
I cannot think my sister in the least<br/>
I cannot think my sister in the least<br/>
Would fail her obligation. If, sir, perchance<br/>
Would fail her obligation. If, sir, perchance<br/>
She have restrain'd the riots of your followers,<br/>
She have restrain'd the riots of your followers,<br/>
'Tis on such ground, and to such wholesome end,<br/>
'Tis on such ground, and to such wholesome end,<br/>
As clears her from all blame.
As clears her from all blame.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
My curses on her.
My curses on her.
</p>
</p>


<p>REGAN.<br/>
<p>REGAN.<br/>
O, sir, you are old;<br/>
O, sir, you are old;<br/>
Nature in you stands on the very verge<br/>
Nature in you stands on the very verge<br/>
Of her confine: you should be rul'd and led<br/>
Of her confine: you should be rul'd and led<br/>
By some discretion, that discerns your state<br/>
By some discretion, that discerns your state<br/>
Better than you yourself. Therefore I pray you,<br/>
Better than you yourself. Therefore I pray you,<br/>
That to our sister you do make return;<br/>
That to our sister you do make return;<br/>
Say you have wrong'd her, sir.
Say you have wrong'd her, sir.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Ask her forgiveness?<br/>
Ask her forgiveness?<br/>
Do you but mark how this becomes the house?<br/>
Do you but mark how this becomes the house?<br/>
'Dear daughter, I confess that I am old;<br/>
'Dear daughter, I confess that I am old;<br/>
[<i>Kneeling.</i>]<br/>
[<i>Kneeling.</i>]<br/>
Age is unnecessary: on my knees I beg<br/>
Age is unnecessary: on my knees I beg<br/>
That you'll vouchsafe me raiment, bed, and food.'
That you'll vouchsafe me raiment, bed, and food.'
</p>
</p>


<p>REGAN.<br/>
<p>REGAN.<br/>
Good sir, no more! These are unsightly tricks:<br/>
Good sir, no more! These are unsightly tricks:<br/>
Return you to my sister.
Return you to my sister.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
[<i>Rising.</i>] Never, Regan:<br/>
[<i>Rising.</i>] Never, Regan:<br/>
She hath abated me of half my train;<br/>
She hath abated me of half my train;<br/>
Look'd black upon me; struck me with her tongue,<br/>
Look'd black upon me; struck me with her tongue,<br/>
Most serpent-like, upon the very heart.<br/>
Most serpent-like, upon the very heart.<br/>
All the stor'd vengeances of heaven fall<br/>
All the stor'd vengeances of heaven fall<br/>
On her ingrateful top! Strike her young bones,<br/>
On her ingrateful top! Strike her young bones,<br/>
You taking airs, with lameness!
You taking airs, with lameness!
</p>
</p>


<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
Fie, sir, fie!
Fie, sir, fie!
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
You nimble lightnings, dart your blinding flames<br/>
You nimble lightnings, dart your blinding flames<br/>
Into her scornful eyes! Infect her beauty,<br/>
Into her scornful eyes! Infect her beauty,<br/>
You fen-suck'd fogs, drawn by the powerful sun,<br/>
You fen-suck'd fogs, drawn by the powerful sun,<br/>
To fall and blast her pride!
To fall and blast her pride!
</p>
</p>


<p>REGAN.<br/>
<p>REGAN.<br/>
O the blest gods!<br/>
O the blest gods!<br/>
So will you wish on me when the rash mood is on.
So will you wish on me when the rash mood is on.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
No, Regan, thou shalt never have my curse.<br/>
No, Regan, thou shalt never have my curse.<br/>
Thy tender-hefted nature shall not give<br/>
Thy tender-hefted nature shall not give<br/>
Thee o'er to harshness. Her eyes are fierce; but thine<br/>
Thee o'er to harshness. Her eyes are fierce; but thine<br/>
Do comfort, and not burn. 'Tis not in thee<br/>
Do comfort, and not burn. 'Tis not in thee<br/>
To grudge my pleasures, to cut off my train,<br/>
To grudge my pleasures, to cut off my train,<br/>
To bandy hasty words, to scant my sizes,<br/>
To bandy hasty words, to scant my sizes,<br/>
And, in conclusion, to oppose the bolt<br/>
And, in conclusion, to oppose the bolt<br/>
Against my coming in. Thou better know'st<br/>
Against my coming in. Thou better know'st<br/>
The offices of nature, bond of childhood,<br/>
The offices of nature, bond of childhood,<br/>
Effects of courtesy, dues of gratitude;<br/>
Effects of courtesy, dues of gratitude;<br/>
Thy half o' the kingdom hast thou not forgot,<br/>
Thy half o' the kingdom hast thou not forgot,<br/>
Wherein I thee endow'd.
Wherein I thee endow'd.
</p>
</p>


<p>REGAN.<br/>
<p>REGAN.<br/>
Good sir, to the purpose.
Good sir, to the purpose.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Who put my man i' the stocks?
Who put my man i' the stocks?
</p>
</p>


Line 2,994: Line 4,852:


<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
What trumpet's that?
What trumpet's that?
</p>
</p>


<p>REGAN.<br/>
<p>REGAN.<br/>
I know't, my sister's: this approves her letter,<br/>
I know't, my sister's: this approves her letter,<br/>
That she would soon be here.
That she would soon be here.
</p>
</p>


Line 3,007: Line 4,870:


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
This is a slave, whose easy borrowed pride<br/>
This is a slave, whose easy borrowed pride<br/>
Dwells in the fickle grace of her he follows.<br/>
Dwells in the fickle grace of her he follows.<br/>
Out, varlet, from my sight!
Out, varlet, from my sight!
</p>
</p>


<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
What means your grace?
What means your grace?
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Who stock'd my servant? Regan, I have good hope<br/>
Who stock'd my servant? Regan, I have good hope<br/>
Thou didst not know on't. Who comes here? O heavens!
Thou didst not know on't. Who comes here? O heavens!
</p>
</p>


Line 3,024: Line 4,896:


<p>If you do love old men, if your sweet sway<br/>
<p>If you do love old men, if your sweet sway<br/>
Allow obedience, if yourselves are old,<br/>
Allow obedience, if yourselves are old,<br/>
Make it your cause; send down, and take my part!<br/>
Make it your cause; send down, and take my part!<br/>
[<i>To Goneril.</i>] Art not asham'd to look upon this beard?<br/>
[<i>To Goneril.</i>] Art not asham'd to look upon this beard?<br/>
O Regan, wilt thou take her by the hand?
O Regan, wilt thou take her by the hand?
</p>
</p>


<p>GONERIL.<br/>
<p>GONERIL.<br/>
Why not by the hand, sir? How have I offended?<br/>
Why not by the hand, sir? How have I offended?<br/>
All's not offence that indiscretion finds<br/>
All's not offence that indiscretion finds<br/>
And dotage terms so.
And dotage terms so.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
O sides, you are too tough!<br/>
O sides, you are too tough!<br/>
Will you yet hold? How came my man i' the stocks?
Will you yet hold? How came my man i' the stocks?
</p>
</p>


<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
I set him there, sir: but his own disorders<br/>
I set him there, sir: but his own disorders<br/>
Deserv'd much less advancement.
Deserv'd much less advancement.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
You? Did you?
You? Did you?
</p>
</p>


<p>REGAN.<br/>
<p>REGAN.<br/>
I pray you, father, being weak, seem so.<br/>
I pray you, father, being weak, seem so.<br/>
If, till the expiration of your month,<br/>
If, till the expiration of your month,<br/>
You will return and sojourn with my sister,<br/>
You will return and sojourn with my sister,<br/>
Dismissing half your train, come then to me:<br/>
Dismissing half your train, come then to me:<br/>
I am now from home, and out of that provision<br/>
I am now from home, and out of that provision<br/>
Which shall be needful for your entertainment.
Which shall be needful for your entertainment.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Return to her, and fifty men dismiss'd?<br/>
Return to her, and fifty men dismiss'd?<br/>
No, rather I abjure all roofs, and choose<br/>
No, rather I abjure all roofs, and choose<br/>
To wage against the enmity o' the air;<br/>
To wage against the enmity o' the air;<br/>
To be a comrade with the wolf and owl,<br/>
To be a comrade with the wolf and owl,<br/>
Necessity's sharp pinch! Return with her?<br/>
Necessity's sharp pinch! Return with her?<br/>
Why, the hot-blooded France, that dowerless took<br/>
Why, the hot-blooded France, that dowerless took<br/>
Our youngest born, I could as well be brought<br/>
Our youngest born, I could as well be brought<br/>
To knee his throne, and, squire-like, pension beg<br/>
To knee his throne, and, squire-like, pension beg<br/>
To keep base life afoot. Return with her?<br/>
To keep base life afoot. Return with her?<br/>
Persuade me rather to be slave and sumpter<br/>
Persuade me rather to be slave and sumpter<br/>
To this detested groom.
To this detested groom.
</p>
</p>


Line 3,076: Line 4,984:


<p>GONERIL.<br/>
<p>GONERIL.<br/>
At your choice, sir.
At your choice, sir.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
I prythee, daughter, do not make me mad:<br/>
I prythee, daughter, do not make me mad:<br/>
I will not trouble thee, my child; farewell:<br/>
I will not trouble thee, my child; farewell:<br/>
We'll no more meet, no more see one another.<br/>
We'll no more meet, no more see one another.<br/>
But yet thou art my flesh, my blood, my daughter;<br/>
But yet thou art my flesh, my blood, my daughter;<br/>
Or rather a disease that's in my flesh,<br/>
Or rather a disease that's in my flesh,<br/>
Which I must needs call mine. Thou art a boil,<br/>
Which I must needs call mine. Thou art a boil,<br/>
A plague sore, or embossed carbuncle<br/>
A plague sore, or embossed carbuncle<br/>
In my corrupted blood. But I'll not chide thee;<br/>
In my corrupted blood. But I'll not chide thee;<br/>
Let shame come when it will, I do not call it:<br/>
Let shame come when it will, I do not call it:<br/>
I do not bid the thunder-bearer shoot,<br/>
I do not bid the thunder-bearer shoot,<br/>
Nor tell tales of thee to high-judging Jove:<br/>
Nor tell tales of thee to high-judging Jove:<br/>
Mend when thou canst; be better at thy leisure:<br/>
Mend when thou canst; be better at thy leisure:<br/>
I can be patient; I can stay with Regan,<br/>
I can be patient; I can stay with Regan,<br/>
I and my hundred knights.
I and my hundred knights.
</p>
</p>


<p>REGAN.<br/>
<p>REGAN.<br/>
Not altogether so,<br/>
Not altogether so,<br/>
I look'd not for you yet, nor am provided<br/>
I look'd not for you yet, nor am provided<br/>
For your fit welcome. Give ear, sir, to my sister;<br/>
For your fit welcome. Give ear, sir, to my sister;<br/>
For those that mingle reason with your passion<br/>
For those that mingle reason with your passion<br/>
Must be content to think you old, and so&mdash;<br/>
 
Must be content to think you old, and so&amp;mdash;<br/>
 
But she knows what she does.
But she knows what she does.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Is this well spoken?
Is this well spoken?
</p>
</p>


<p>REGAN.<br/>
<p>REGAN.<br/>
I dare avouch it, sir: what, fifty followers?<br/>
I dare avouch it, sir: what, fifty followers?<br/>
Is it not well? What should you need of more?<br/>
Is it not well? What should you need of more?<br/>
Yea, or so many, sith that both charge and danger<br/>
Yea, or so many, sith that both charge and danger<br/>
Speak 'gainst so great a number? How in one house<br/>
Speak 'gainst so great a number? How in one house<br/>
Should many people, under two commands,<br/>
Should many people, under two commands,<br/>
Hold amity? 'Tis hard; almost impossible.
Hold amity? 'Tis hard; almost impossible.
</p>
</p>


<p>GONERIL.<br/>
<p>GONERIL.<br/>
Why might not you, my lord, receive attendance<br/>
Why might not you, my lord, receive attendance<br/>
From those that she calls servants, or from mine?
From those that she calls servants, or from mine?
</p>
</p>


<p>REGAN.<br/>
<p>REGAN.<br/>
Why not, my lord? If then they chanc'd to slack ye,<br/>
Why not, my lord? If then they chanc'd to slack ye,<br/>
We could control them. If you will come to me,&mdash;<br/>
 
For now I spy a danger,&mdash;I entreat you<br/>
We could control them. If you will come to me,&amp;mdash;<br/>
 
For now I spy a danger,&amp;mdash;I entreat you<br/>
 
To bring but five-and-twenty: to no more<br/>
To bring but five-and-twenty: to no more<br/>
Will I give place or notice.
Will I give place or notice.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
I gave you all,&mdash;
 
I gave you all,&amp;mdash;
 
</p>
</p>


<p>REGAN.<br/>
<p>REGAN.<br/>
And in good time you gave it.
And in good time you gave it.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Made you my guardians, my depositaries;<br/>
Made you my guardians, my depositaries;<br/>
But kept a reservation to be followed<br/>
But kept a reservation to be followed<br/>
With such a number. What, must I come to you<br/>
With such a number. What, must I come to you<br/>
With five-and-twenty, Regan, said you so?
With five-and-twenty, Regan, said you so?
</p>
</p>


<p>REGAN.<br/>
<p>REGAN.<br/>
And speak't again my lord; no more with me.
And speak't again my lord; no more with me.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Those wicked creatures yet do look well-favour'd<br/>
Those wicked creatures yet do look well-favour'd<br/>
When others are more wicked; not being the worst<br/>
When others are more wicked; not being the worst<br/>
Stands in some rank of praise.<br/>
Stands in some rank of praise.<br/>
[<i>To Goneril.</i>] I'll go with thee:<br/>
[<i>To Goneril.</i>] I'll go with thee:<br/>
Thy fifty yet doth double five-and-twenty,<br/>
Thy fifty yet doth double five-and-twenty,<br/>
And thou art twice her love.
And thou art twice her love.
</p>
</p>


<p>GONERIL.<br/>
<p>GONERIL.<br/>
Hear me, my lord:<br/>
Hear me, my lord:<br/>
What need you five-and-twenty? Ten? Or five?<br/>
What need you five-and-twenty? Ten? Or five?<br/>
To follow in a house where twice so many<br/>
To follow in a house where twice so many<br/>
Have a command to tend you?
Have a command to tend you?
</p>
</p>


<p>REGAN.<br/>
<p>REGAN.<br/>
What need one?
What need one?
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
O, reason not the need: our basest beggars<br/>
O, reason not the need: our basest beggars<br/>
Are in the poorest thing superfluous:<br/>
Are in the poorest thing superfluous:<br/>
Allow not nature more than nature needs,<br/>
Allow not nature more than nature needs,<br/>
Man's life is cheap as beast's. Thou art a lady;<br/>
Man's life is cheap as beast's. Thou art a lady;<br/>
If only to go warm were gorgeous,<br/>
If only to go warm were gorgeous,<br/>
Why, nature needs not what thou gorgeous wear'st<br/>
Why, nature needs not what thou gorgeous wear'st<br/>
Which scarcely keeps thee warm. But, for true need,&mdash;<br/>
 
Which scarcely keeps thee warm. But, for true need,&amp;mdash;<br/>
 
You heavens, give me that patience, patience I need!<br/>
You heavens, give me that patience, patience I need!<br/>
You see me here, you gods, a poor old man,<br/>
You see me here, you gods, a poor old man,<br/>
As full of grief as age; wretched in both!<br/>
As full of grief as age; wretched in both!<br/>
If it be you that stirs these daughters' hearts<br/>
If it be you that stirs these daughters' hearts<br/>
Against their father, fool me not so much<br/>
Against their father, fool me not so much<br/>
To bear it tamely; touch me with noble anger,<br/>
To bear it tamely; touch me with noble anger,<br/>
And let not women's weapons, water-drops,<br/>
And let not women's weapons, water-drops,<br/>
Stain my man's cheeks! No, you unnatural hags,<br/>
Stain my man's cheeks! No, you unnatural hags,<br/>
I will have such revenges on you both<br/>
I will have such revenges on you both<br/>
That all the world shall,&mdash;I will do such things,&mdash;<br/>
 
That all the world shall,&amp;mdash;I will do such things,&amp;mdash;<br/>
 
What they are yet, I know not; but they shall be<br/>
What they are yet, I know not; but they shall be<br/>
The terrors of the earth. You think I'll weep;<br/>
The terrors of the earth. You think I'll weep;<br/>
No, I'll not weep:&mdash; [<i>Storm and tempest.</i>]<br/>
 
No, I'll not weep:&amp;mdash; [<i>Storm and tempest.</i>]<br/>
 
I have full cause of weeping; but this heart<br/>
I have full cause of weeping; but this heart<br/>
Shall break into a hundred thousand flaws<br/>
Shall break into a hundred thousand flaws<br/>
Or ere I'll weep.&mdash;O fool, I shall go mad!
 
Or ere I'll weep.&amp;mdash;O fool, I shall go mad!
 
</p>
</p>


<p class="right"> [<i>Exeunt <span class="charname">Lear, Gloucester,
<p class="right"> [<i>Exeunt <span class="charname">Lear, Gloucester,
Kent</span> and <span class="charname">Fool</span>.</i>]</p>
Kent</span> and <span class="charname">Fool</span>.</i>]</p>


<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
Let us withdraw; 'twill be a storm.
Let us withdraw; 'twill be a storm.
</p>
</p>


<p>REGAN.<br/>
<p>REGAN.<br/>
This house is little: the old man and his people<br/>
This house is little: the old man and his people<br/>
Cannot be well bestow'd.
Cannot be well bestow'd.
</p>
</p>


<p>GONERIL.<br/>
<p>GONERIL.<br/>
'Tis his own blame; hath put himself from rest<br/>
'Tis his own blame; hath put himself from rest<br/>
And must needs taste his folly.
And must needs taste his folly.
</p>
</p>


<p>REGAN.<br/>
<p>REGAN.<br/>
For his particular, I'll receive him gladly,<br/>
For his particular, I'll receive him gladly,<br/>
But not one follower.
But not one follower.
</p>
</p>


<p>GONERIL.<br/>
<p>GONERIL.<br/>
So am I purpos'd.<br/>
So am I purpos'd.<br/>
Where is my lord of Gloucester?
Where is my lord of Gloucester?
</p>
</p>


Line 3,226: Line 5,240:


<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
Followed the old man forth, he is return'd.
Followed the old man forth, he is return'd.
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
The King is in high rage.
The King is in high rage.
</p>
</p>


<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
Whither is he going?
Whither is he going?
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
He calls to horse; but will I know not whither.
He calls to horse; but will I know not whither.
</p>
</p>


<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
'Tis best to give him way; he leads himself.
'Tis best to give him way; he leads himself.
</p>
</p>


<p>GONERIL.<br/>
<p>GONERIL.<br/>
My lord, entreat him by no means to stay.
My lord, entreat him by no means to stay.
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
Alack, the night comes on, and the high winds<br/>
Alack, the night comes on, and the high winds<br/>
Do sorely ruffle; for many miles about<br/>
Do sorely ruffle; for many miles about<br/>
There's scarce a bush.
There's scarce a bush.
</p>
</p>


<p>REGAN.<br/>
<p>REGAN.<br/>
O, sir, to wilful men<br/>
O, sir, to wilful men<br/>
The injuries that they themselves procure<br/>
The injuries that they themselves procure<br/>
Must be their schoolmasters. Shut up your doors.<br/>
Must be their schoolmasters. Shut up your doors.<br/>
He is attended with a desperate train,<br/>
He is attended with a desperate train,<br/>
And what they may incense him to, being apt<br/>
And what they may incense him to, being apt<br/>
To have his ear abus'd, wisdom bids fear.
To have his ear abus'd, wisdom bids fear.
</p>
</p>


<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
Shut up your doors, my lord; 'tis a wild night.<br/>
Shut up your doors, my lord; 'tis a wild night.<br/>
My Regan counsels well: come out o' the storm.
My Regan counsels well: come out o' the storm.
</p>
</p>


<p class="right"> [<i>Exeunt.</i>]</p>
<p class="right"> [<i>Exeunt.</i>]</p>


<h3 id="sceneIII_181"> <b>ACT III</b></h3>
<h3 id="sceneIII_181"> <b>ACT III</b></h3>
Line 3,280: Line 5,316:


<p class="scenedesc"> A storm with thunder and lightning. Enter <span
<p class="scenedesc"> A storm with thunder and lightning. Enter <span
class="charname">Kent</span> and a <span class="charname">Gentleman</span>,
class="charname">Kent</span> and a <span class="charname">Gentleman</span>,
severally.</p>
severally.</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
Who's there, besides foul weather?
Who's there, besides foul weather?
</p>
</p>


<p>GENTLEMAN.<br/>
<p>GENTLEMAN.<br/>
One minded like the weather, most unquietly.
One minded like the weather, most unquietly.
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
I know you. Where's the King?
I know you. Where's the King?
</p>
</p>


<p>GENTLEMAN.<br/>
<p>GENTLEMAN.<br/>
Contending with the fretful elements;<br/>
Contending with the fretful elements;<br/>
Bids the wind blow the earth into the sea,<br/>
Bids the wind blow the earth into the sea,<br/>
Or swell the curled waters 'bove the main,<br/>
Or swell the curled waters 'bove the main,<br/>
That things might change or cease; tears his white hair,<br/>
That things might change or cease; tears his white hair,<br/>
Which the impetuous blasts with eyeless rage,<br/>
Which the impetuous blasts with eyeless rage,<br/>
Catch in their fury and make nothing of;<br/>
Catch in their fury and make nothing of;<br/>
Strives in his little world of man to outscorn<br/>
Strives in his little world of man to outscorn<br/>
The to-and-fro-conflicting wind and rain.<br/>
The to-and-fro-conflicting wind and rain.<br/>
This night, wherein the cub-drawn bear would couch,<br/>
This night, wherein the cub-drawn bear would couch,<br/>
The lion and the belly-pinched wolf<br/>
The lion and the belly-pinched wolf<br/>
Keep their fur dry, unbonneted he runs,<br/>
Keep their fur dry, unbonneted he runs,<br/>
And bids what will take all.
And bids what will take all.
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
But who is with him?
But who is with him?
</p>
</p>


<p>GENTLEMAN.<br/>
<p>GENTLEMAN.<br/>
None but the fool, who labours to out-jest<br/>
None but the fool, who labours to out-jest<br/>
His heart-struck injuries.
His heart-struck injuries.
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
Sir, I do know you;<br/>
Sir, I do know you;<br/>
And dare, upon the warrant of my note<br/>
And dare, upon the warrant of my note<br/>
Commend a dear thing to you. There is division,<br/>
Commend a dear thing to you. There is division,<br/>
Although as yet the face of it be cover'd<br/>
Although as yet the face of it be cover'd<br/>
With mutual cunning, 'twixt Albany and Cornwall;<br/>
With mutual cunning, 'twixt Albany and Cornwall;<br/>
Who have, as who have not, that their great stars<br/>
Who have, as who have not, that their great stars<br/>
Throne'd and set high; servants, who seem no less,<br/>
Throne'd and set high; servants, who seem no less,<br/>
Which are to France the spies and speculations<br/>
Which are to France the spies and speculations<br/>
Intelligent of our state. What hath been seen,<br/>
Intelligent of our state. What hath been seen,<br/>
Either in snuffs and packings of the Dukes;<br/>
Either in snuffs and packings of the Dukes;<br/>
Or the hard rein which both of them have borne<br/>
Or the hard rein which both of them have borne<br/>
Against the old kind King; or something deeper,<br/>
Against the old kind King; or something deeper,<br/>
Whereof, perchance, these are but furnishings;&mdash;<br/>
 
Whereof, perchance, these are but furnishings;&amp;mdash;<br/>
 
But, true it is, from France there comes a power<br/>
But, true it is, from France there comes a power<br/>
Into this scatter'd kingdom; who already,<br/>
Into this scatter'd kingdom; who already,<br/>
Wise in our negligence, have secret feet<br/>
Wise in our negligence, have secret feet<br/>
In some of our best ports, and are at point<br/>
In some of our best ports, and are at point<br/>
To show their open banner.&mdash;Now to you:<br/>
 
To show their open banner.&amp;mdash;Now to you:<br/>
 
If on my credit you dare build so far<br/>
If on my credit you dare build so far<br/>
To make your speed to Dover, you shall find<br/>
To make your speed to Dover, you shall find<br/>
Some that will thank you making just report<br/>
Some that will thank you making just report<br/>
Of how unnatural and bemadding sorrow<br/>
Of how unnatural and bemadding sorrow<br/>
The King hath cause to plain.<br/>
The King hath cause to plain.<br/>
I am a gentleman of blood and breeding;<br/>
I am a gentleman of blood and breeding;<br/>
And from some knowledge and assurance<br/>
And from some knowledge and assurance<br/>
Offer this office to you.
Offer this office to you.
</p>
</p>


<p>GENTLEMAN.<br/>
<p>GENTLEMAN.<br/>
I will talk further with you.
I will talk further with you.
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
No, do not.<br/>
No, do not.<br/>
For confirmation that I am much more<br/>
For confirmation that I am much more<br/>
Than my out-wall, open this purse, and take<br/>
Than my out-wall, open this purse, and take<br/>
What it contains. If you shall see Cordelia,<br/>
What it contains. If you shall see Cordelia,<br/>
As fear not but you shall, show her this ring;<br/>
As fear not but you shall, show her this ring;<br/>
And she will tell you who your fellow is<br/>
And she will tell you who your fellow is<br/>
That yet you do not know. Fie on this storm!<br/>
That yet you do not know. Fie on this storm!<br/>
I will go seek the King.
I will go seek the King.
</p>
</p>


<p>GENTLEMAN.<br/>
<p>GENTLEMAN.<br/>
Give me your hand: have you no more to say?
Give me your hand: have you no more to say?
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
Few words, but, to effect, more than all yet:<br/>
Few words, but, to effect, more than all yet:<br/>
That, when we have found the King, in which your pain<br/>
That, when we have found the King, in which your pain<br/>
That way, I'll this; he that first lights on him<br/>
That way, I'll this; he that first lights on him<br/>
Holla the other.
Holla the other.
</p>
</p>


Line 3,379: Line 5,486:


<p class="scenedesc"> Storm continues. Enter <span class="charname">Lear</span>
<p class="scenedesc"> Storm continues. Enter <span class="charname">Lear</span>
and <span class="charname">Fool</span>.</p>
and <span class="charname">Fool</span>.</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Blow, winds, and crack your cheeks! Rage! blow!<br/>
Blow, winds, and crack your cheeks! Rage! blow!<br/>
You cataracts and hurricanoes, spout<br/>
You cataracts and hurricanoes, spout<br/>
Till you have drench'd our steeples, drown'd the cocks!<br/>
Till you have drench'd our steeples, drown'd the cocks!<br/>
You sulphurous and thought-executing fires,<br/>
You sulphurous and thought-executing fires,<br/>
Vaunt-couriers to oak-cleaving thunderbolts,<br/>
Vaunt-couriers to oak-cleaving thunderbolts,<br/>
Singe my white head! And thou, all-shaking thunder,<br/>
Singe my white head! And thou, all-shaking thunder,<br/>
Strike flat the thick rotundity o' the world!<br/>
Strike flat the thick rotundity o' the world!<br/>
Crack nature's moulds, all germens spill at once,<br/>
Crack nature's moulds, all germens spill at once,<br/>
That make ingrateful man!
That make ingrateful man!
</p>
</p>


<p>FOOL.<br/>
<p>FOOL.<br/>
O nuncle, court holy-water in a dry house is better than this
O nuncle, court holy-water in a dry house is better than this
rain-water out o' door. Good nuncle, in; and ask thy daughters
rain-water out o' door. Good nuncle, in; and ask thy daughters
blessing: here's a night pities neither wise men nor fools.</p>
blessing: here's a night pities neither wise men nor fools.</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Rumble thy bellyful! Spit, fire! spout, rain!<br/>
Rumble thy bellyful! Spit, fire! spout, rain!<br/>
Nor rain, wind, thunder, fire are my daughters;<br/>
Nor rain, wind, thunder, fire are my daughters;<br/>
I tax not you, you elements, with unkindness.<br/>
I tax not you, you elements, with unkindness.<br/>
I never gave you kingdom, call'd you children;<br/>
I never gave you kingdom, call'd you children;<br/>
You owe me no subscription: then let fall<br/>
You owe me no subscription: then let fall<br/>
Your horrible pleasure. Here I stand your slave,<br/>
Your horrible pleasure. Here I stand your slave,<br/>
A poor, infirm, weak, and despis'd old man:<br/>
A poor, infirm, weak, and despis'd old man:<br/>
But yet I call you servile ministers,<br/>
But yet I call you servile ministers,<br/>
That will with two pernicious daughters join<br/>
That will with two pernicious daughters join<br/>
Your high-engender'd battles 'gainst a head<br/>
Your high-engender'd battles 'gainst a head<br/>
So old and white as this! O! O! 'tis foul!
So old and white as this! O! O! 'tis foul!
</p>
</p>


<p>FOOL.<br/>
<p>FOOL.<br/>
He that has a house to put's head in has a good head-piece.<br/>
He that has a house to put's head in has a good head-piece.<br/>
   The codpiece that will house<br/>
   The codpiece that will house<br/>
     Before the head has any,<br/>
     Before the head has any,<br/>
   The head and he shall louse:<br/>
   The head and he shall louse:<br/>
     So beggars marry many.<br/>
     So beggars marry many.<br/>
   The man that makes his toe<br/>
   The man that makes his toe<br/>
     What he his heart should make<br/>
     What he his heart should make<br/>
   Shall of a corn cry woe,<br/>
   Shall of a corn cry woe,<br/>
     And turn his sleep to wake.<br/>
     And turn his sleep to wake.<br/>
For there was never yet fair woman but she made mouths in a glass.
For there was never yet fair woman but she made mouths in a glass.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
No, I will be the pattern of all patience;<br/>
No, I will be the pattern of all patience;<br/>
I will say nothing.
I will say nothing.
</p>
</p>


Line 3,433: Line 5,580:


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
Who's there?
Who's there?
</p>
</p>


<p>FOOL.<br/>
<p>FOOL.<br/>
Marry, here's grace and a codpiece; that's a wise man and a
Marry, here's grace and a codpiece; that's a wise man and a
fool.
fool.
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
Alas, sir, are you here? Things that love night<br/>
Alas, sir, are you here? Things that love night<br/>
Love not such nights as these; the wrathful skies<br/>
Love not such nights as these; the wrathful skies<br/>
Gallow the very wanderers of the dark,<br/>
Gallow the very wanderers of the dark,<br/>
And make them keep their caves. Since I was man,<br/>
And make them keep their caves. Since I was man,<br/>
Such sheets of fire, such bursts of horrid thunder,<br/>
Such sheets of fire, such bursts of horrid thunder,<br/>
Such groans of roaring wind and rain I never<br/>
Such groans of roaring wind and rain I never<br/>
Remember to have heard. Man's nature cannot carry<br/>
Remember to have heard. Man's nature cannot carry<br/>
Th'affliction, nor the fear.
Th'affliction, nor the fear.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Let the great gods,<br/>
Let the great gods,<br/>
That keep this dreadful pudder o'er our heads,<br/>
That keep this dreadful pudder o'er our heads,<br/>
Find out their enemies now. Tremble, thou wretch,<br/>
Find out their enemies now. Tremble, thou wretch,<br/>
That hast within thee undivulged crimes<br/>
That hast within thee undivulged crimes<br/>
Unwhipp'd of justice. Hide thee, thou bloody hand;<br/>
Unwhipp'd of justice. Hide thee, thou bloody hand;<br/>
Thou perjur'd, and thou simular of virtue<br/>
Thou perjur'd, and thou simular of virtue<br/>
That art incestuous. Caitiff, to pieces shake<br/>
That art incestuous. Caitiff, to pieces shake<br/>
That under covert and convenient seeming<br/>
That under covert and convenient seeming<br/>
Hast practis'd on man's life: close pent-up guilts,<br/>
Hast practis'd on man's life: close pent-up guilts,<br/>
Rive your concealing continents, and cry<br/>
Rive your concealing continents, and cry<br/>
These dreadful summoners grace. I am a man<br/>
These dreadful summoners grace. I am a man<br/>
More sinn'd against than sinning.
More sinn'd against than sinning.
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
Alack, bareheaded!<br/>
Alack, bareheaded!<br/>
Gracious my lord, hard by here is a hovel;<br/>
Gracious my lord, hard by here is a hovel;<br/>
Some friendship will it lend you 'gainst the tempest:<br/>
Some friendship will it lend you 'gainst the tempest:<br/>
Repose you there, whilst I to this hard house,&mdash;<br/>
 
Repose you there, whilst I to this hard house,&amp;mdash;<br/>
 
More harder than the stones whereof 'tis rais'd;<br/>
More harder than the stones whereof 'tis rais'd;<br/>
Which even but now, demanding after you,<br/>
Which even but now, demanding after you,<br/>
Denied me to come in,&mdash;return, and force<br/>
 
Denied me to come in,&amp;mdash;return, and force<br/>
 
Their scanted courtesy.
Their scanted courtesy.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
My wits begin to turn.<br/>
My wits begin to turn.<br/>
Come on, my boy. How dost, my boy? Art cold?<br/>
Come on, my boy. How dost, my boy? Art cold?<br/>
I am cold myself. Where is this straw, my fellow?<br/>
I am cold myself. Where is this straw, my fellow?<br/>
The art of our necessities is strange,<br/>
The art of our necessities is strange,<br/>
That can make vile things precious. Come, your hovel.<br/>
That can make vile things precious. Come, your hovel.<br/>
Poor fool and knave, I have one part in my heart<br/>
Poor fool and knave, I have one part in my heart<br/>
That's sorry yet for thee.
That's sorry yet for thee.
</p>
</p>


<p>FOOL.<br/>
<p>FOOL.<br/>
[<i>Singing.</i>]<br/>
[<i>Singing.</i>]<br/>
   He that has and a little tiny wit,<br/>
   He that has and a little tiny wit,<br/>
     With heigh-ho, the wind and the rain,<br/>
     With heigh-ho, the wind and the rain,<br/>
   Must make content with his fortunes fit,<br/>
   Must make content with his fortunes fit,<br/>
     Though the rain it raineth every day.
     Though the rain it raineth every day.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
True, boy. Come, bring us to this hovel.
True, boy. Come, bring us to this hovel.
</p>
</p>


<p class="right"> [<i>Exeunt <span class="charname">Lear</span> and <span
<p class="right"> [<i>Exeunt <span class="charname">Lear</span> and <span
class="charname">Kent</span>.</i>]</p>
class="charname">Kent</span>.</i>]</p>


<p>FOOL.<br/>
<p>FOOL.<br/>
This is a brave night to cool a courtezan. I'll speak a prophecy
This is a brave night to cool a courtezan. I'll speak a prophecy
ere I go:<br/>
ere I go:<br/>
   When priests are more in word than matter;<br/>
   When priests are more in word than matter;<br/>
   When brewers mar their malt with water;<br/>
   When brewers mar their malt with water;<br/>
   When nobles are their tailors' tutors;<br/>
   When nobles are their tailors' tutors;<br/>
   No heretics burn'd, but wenches' suitors;<br/>
   No heretics burn'd, but wenches' suitors;<br/>
   When every case in law is right;<br/>
   When every case in law is right;<br/>
   No squire in debt, nor no poor knight;<br/>
   No squire in debt, nor no poor knight;<br/>
   When slanders do not live in tongues;<br/>
   When slanders do not live in tongues;<br/>
   Nor cut-purses come not to throngs;<br/>
   Nor cut-purses come not to throngs;<br/>
   When usurers tell their gold i' the field;<br/>
   When usurers tell their gold i' the field;<br/>
   And bawds and whores do churches build,<br/>
   And bawds and whores do churches build,<br/>
   Then shall the realm of Albion<br/>
   Then shall the realm of Albion<br/>
   Come to great confusion:<br/>
   Come to great confusion:<br/>
   Then comes the time, who lives to see't,<br/>
   Then comes the time, who lives to see't,<br/>
   That going shall be us'd with feet.<br/>
   That going shall be us'd with feet.<br/>
This prophecy Merlin shall make; for I live before his time.
This prophecy Merlin shall make; for I live before his time.
</p>
</p>


Line 3,528: Line 5,746:


<p class="scenedesc"> Enter <span class="charname">Gloucester</span> and <span
<p class="scenedesc"> Enter <span class="charname">Gloucester</span> and <span
class="charname">Edmund</span>.</p>
class="charname">Edmund</span>.</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
Alack, alack, Edmund, I like not this unnatural dealing. When I
Alack, alack, Edmund, I like not this unnatural dealing. When I
desired their leave that I might pity him, they took from me the
desired their leave that I might pity him, they took from me the
use of mine own house; charged me on pain of perpetual displeasure,
use of mine own house; charged me on pain of perpetual displeasure,
neither to speak of him, entreat for him, or any way sustain him.</p>
neither to speak of him, entreat for him, or any way sustain him.</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
Most savage and unnatural!
Most savage and unnatural!
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
Go to; say you nothing. There is division between the Dukes,
Go to; say you nothing. There is division between the Dukes,
and a worse matter than that: I have received a letter this
and a worse matter than that: I have received a letter this
night;&mdash;'tis dangerous to be spoken;&mdash;I have locked the letter
 
night;&amp;mdash;'tis dangerous to be spoken;&amp;mdash;I have locked the letter
 
in my closet: these injuries the King now bears will be revenged
in my closet: these injuries the King now bears will be revenged
home; there's part of a power already footed: we must incline to
home; there's part of a power already footed: we must incline to
the King. I will look him, and privily relieve him: go you and
the King. I will look him, and privily relieve him: go you and
maintain talk with the Duke, that my charity be not of him
maintain talk with the Duke, that my charity be not of him
perceived: if he ask for me, I am ill, and gone to bed. If I
perceived: if he ask for me, I am ill, and gone to bed. If I
die for it, as no less is threatened me, the King my old master
die for it, as no less is threatened me, the King my old master
must be relieved. There is some strange thing toward, Edmund;
must be relieved. There is some strange thing toward, Edmund;
pray you be careful.</p>
pray you be careful.</p>


Line 3,556: Line 5,792:


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
This courtesy, forbid thee, shall the Duke<br/>
This courtesy, forbid thee, shall the Duke<br/>
Instantly know; and of that letter too.<br/>
Instantly know; and of that letter too.<br/>
This seems a fair deserving, and must draw me<br/>
This seems a fair deserving, and must draw me<br/>
That which my father loses, no less than all:<br/>
That which my father loses, no less than all:<br/>
The younger rises when the old doth fall.
The younger rises when the old doth fall.
</p>
</p>


Line 3,568: Line 5,810:


<p class="scenedesc"> Storm continues. Enter <span class="charname">Lear,
<p class="scenedesc"> Storm continues. Enter <span class="charname">Lear,
Kent</span> and <span class="charname">Fool</span>.</p>
Kent</span> and <span class="charname">Fool</span>.</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
Here is the place, my lord; good my lord, enter:<br/>
Here is the place, my lord; good my lord, enter:<br/>
The tyranny of the open night's too rough<br/>
The tyranny of the open night's too rough<br/>
For nature to endure.
For nature to endure.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Let me alone.
Let me alone.
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
Good my lord, enter here.
Good my lord, enter here.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Wilt break my heart?
Wilt break my heart?
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
I had rather break mine own. Good my lord, enter.
I had rather break mine own. Good my lord, enter.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Thou think'st 'tis much that this contentious storm<br/>
Thou think'st 'tis much that this contentious storm<br/>
Invades us to the skin: so 'tis to thee,<br/>
Invades us to the skin: so 'tis to thee,<br/>
But where the greater malady is fix'd,<br/>
But where the greater malady is fix'd,<br/>
The lesser is scarce felt. Thou'dst shun a bear;<br/>
The lesser is scarce felt. Thou'dst shun a bear;<br/>
But if thy flight lay toward the raging sea,<br/>
But if thy flight lay toward the raging sea,<br/>
Thou'dst meet the bear i' the mouth. When the mind's
Thou'dst meet the bear i' the mouth. When the mind's
free,<br/>
free,<br/>
The body's delicate: the tempest in my mind<br/>
The body's delicate: the tempest in my mind<br/>
Doth from my senses take all feeling else<br/>
Doth from my senses take all feeling else<br/>
Save what beats there. Filial ingratitude!<br/>
Save what beats there. Filial ingratitude!<br/>
Is it not as this mouth should tear this hand<br/>
Is it not as this mouth should tear this hand<br/>
For lifting food to't? But I will punish home;<br/>
For lifting food to't? But I will punish home;<br/>
No, I will weep no more. In such a night<br/>
No, I will weep no more. In such a night<br/>
To shut me out! Pour on; I will endure:<br/>
To shut me out! Pour on; I will endure:<br/>
In such a night as this! O Regan, Goneril!<br/>
In such a night as this! O Regan, Goneril!<br/>
Your old kind father, whose frank heart gave all,<br/>
Your old kind father, whose frank heart gave all,<br/>
O, that way madness lies; let me shun that;<br/>
O, that way madness lies; let me shun that;<br/>
No more of that.
No more of that.
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
Good my lord, enter here.
Good my lord, enter here.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Prythee go in thyself; seek thine own ease:<br/>
Prythee go in thyself; seek thine own ease:<br/>
This tempest will not give me leave to ponder<br/>
This tempest will not give me leave to ponder<br/>
On things would hurt me more. But I'll go in.<br/>
On things would hurt me more. But I'll go in.<br/>
[<i>To the Fool.</i>] In, boy; go first. You houseless poverty,<br/>
[<i>To the Fool.</i>] In, boy; go first. You houseless poverty,<br/>
Nay, get thee in. I'll pray, and then I'll sleep.
Nay, get thee in. I'll pray, and then I'll sleep.
</p>
</p>


Line 3,628: Line 5,910:


<p>Poor naked wretches, wheresoe'er you are,<br/>
<p>Poor naked wretches, wheresoe'er you are,<br/>
That bide the pelting of this pitiless storm,<br/>
That bide the pelting of this pitiless storm,<br/>
How shall your houseless heads and unfed sides,<br/>
How shall your houseless heads and unfed sides,<br/>
Your loop'd and window'd raggedness, defend you<br/>
Your loop'd and window'd raggedness, defend you<br/>
From seasons such as these? O, I have ta'en<br/>
From seasons such as these? O, I have ta'en<br/>
Too little care of this! Take physic, pomp;<br/>
Too little care of this! Take physic, pomp;<br/>
Expose thyself to feel what wretches feel,<br/>
Expose thyself to feel what wretches feel,<br/>
That thou mayst shake the superflux to them<br/>
That thou mayst shake the superflux to them<br/>
And show the heavens more just.
And show the heavens more just.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
[<i>Within.</i>] Fathom and half, fathom and half! Poor Tom!
[<i>Within.</i>] Fathom and half, fathom and half! Poor Tom!
</p>
</p>


<p class="right"> [<i>The <span class="charname">Fool</span> runs out from the
<p class="right"> [<i>The <span class="charname">Fool</span> runs out from the
hovel.</i>]</p>
hovel.</i>]</p>


<p>FOOL.<br/>
<p>FOOL.<br/>
Come not in here, nuncle, here's a spirit.<br/>
Come not in here, nuncle, here's a spirit.<br/>
Help me, help me!
Help me, help me!
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
Give me thy hand. Who's there?
Give me thy hand. Who's there?
</p>
</p>


<p>FOOL.<br/>
<p>FOOL.<br/>
A spirit, a spirit: he says his name's poor Tom.
A spirit, a spirit: he says his name's poor Tom.
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
What art thou that dost grumble there i' the straw?<br/>
What art thou that dost grumble there i' the straw?<br/>
Come forth.
Come forth.
</p>
</p>


<p class="scenedesc"> Enter <span class="charname">Edgar</span>, disguised as a
<p class="scenedesc"> Enter <span class="charname">Edgar</span>, disguised as a
madman.</p>
madman.</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
Away! the foul fiend follows me! Through the sharp hawthorn blows the
Away! the foul fiend follows me! Through the sharp hawthorn blows the
cold wind. Humh! go to thy cold bed, and warm thee.
cold wind. Humh! go to thy cold bed, and warm thee.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Didst thou give all to thy two daughters?<br/>
Didst thou give all to thy two daughters?<br/>
And art thou come to this?
And art thou come to this?
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
Who gives anything to poor Tom? Whom the foul fiend hath led
Who gives anything to poor Tom? Whom the foul fiend hath led
through fire and through flame, through ford and whirlpool, o'er
through fire and through flame, through ford and whirlpool, o'er
bog and quagmire; that hath laid knives under his pillow and
bog and quagmire; that hath laid knives under his pillow and
halters in his pew, set ratsbane by his porridge; made him proud
halters in his pew, set ratsbane by his porridge; made him proud
of heart, to ride on a bay trotting horse over four-inched
of heart, to ride on a bay trotting horse over four-inched
bridges, to course his own shadow for a traitor. Bless thy five
bridges, to course his own shadow for a traitor. Bless thy five
wits! Tom's a-cold. O, do, de, do, de, do, de. Bless thee from
wits! Tom's a-cold. O, do, de, do, de, do, de. Bless thee from
whirlwinds, star-blasting, and taking! Do poor Tom some charity,
whirlwinds, star-blasting, and taking! Do poor Tom some charity,
whom the foul fiend vexes. There could I have him now, and
whom the foul fiend vexes. There could I have him now, and
there,&mdash;and there again, and there.
 
there,&amp;mdash;and there again, and there.
 
</p>
</p>


Line 3,692: Line 6,014:


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
What, have his daughters brought him to this pass?<br/>
What, have his daughters brought him to this pass?<br/>
Couldst thou save nothing? Didst thou give 'em all?
Couldst thou save nothing? Didst thou give 'em all?
</p>
</p>


<p>FOOL.<br/>
<p>FOOL.<br/>
Nay, he reserv'd a blanket, else we had been all shamed.
Nay, he reserv'd a blanket, else we had been all shamed.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Now all the plagues that in the pendulous air<br/>
Now all the plagues that in the pendulous air<br/>
Hang fated o'er men's faults light on thy daughters!
Hang fated o'er men's faults light on thy daughters!
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
He hath no daughters, sir.
He hath no daughters, sir.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Death, traitor! nothing could have subdu'd nature<br/>
Death, traitor! nothing could have subdu'd nature<br/>
To such a lowness but his unkind daughters.<br/>
To such a lowness but his unkind daughters.<br/>
Is it the fashion that discarded fathers<br/>
Is it the fashion that discarded fathers<br/>
Should have thus little mercy on their flesh?<br/>
Should have thus little mercy on their flesh?<br/>
Judicious punishment! 'twas this flesh begot<br/>
Judicious punishment! 'twas this flesh begot<br/>
Those pelican daughters.
Those pelican daughters.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
   Pillicock sat on Pillicock hill,<br/>
   Pillicock sat on Pillicock hill,<br/>
     Alow, alow, loo loo!
     Alow, alow, loo loo!
</p>
</p>


<p>FOOL.<br/>
<p>FOOL.<br/>
This cold night will turn us all to fools and madmen.
This cold night will turn us all to fools and madmen.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
Take heed o' th' foul fiend: obey thy parents; keep thy word
Take heed o' th' foul fiend: obey thy parents; keep thy word
justly; swear not; commit not with man's sworn spouse; set not
justly; swear not; commit not with man's sworn spouse; set not
thy sweet-heart on proud array. Tom's a-cold.</p>
thy sweet-heart on proud array. Tom's a-cold.</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
What hast thou been?
What hast thou been?
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
A serving-man, proud in heart and mind; that curled my hair;
A serving-man, proud in heart and mind; that curled my hair;
wore gloves in my cap; served the lust of my mistress' heart, and
wore gloves in my cap; served the lust of my mistress' heart, and
did the act of darkness with her; swore as many oaths as I spake
did the act of darkness with her; swore as many oaths as I spake
words, and broke them in the sweet face of heaven. One that
words, and broke them in the sweet face of heaven. One that
slept in the contriving of lust, and waked to do it. Wine loved
slept in the contriving of lust, and waked to do it. Wine loved
I deeply, dice dearly; and in woman out-paramour'd the Turk.
I deeply, dice dearly; and in woman out-paramour'd the Turk.
False of heart, light of ear, bloody of hand; hog in sloth, fox
False of heart, light of ear, bloody of hand; hog in sloth, fox
in stealth, wolf in greediness, dog in madness, lion in prey.
in stealth, wolf in greediness, dog in madness, lion in prey.
Let not the creaking of shoes nor the rustling of silks betray
Let not the creaking of shoes nor the rustling of silks betray
thy poor heart to woman. Keep thy foot out of brothels, thy hand
thy poor heart to woman. Keep thy foot out of brothels, thy hand
out of plackets, thy pen from lender's book, and defy the foul
out of plackets, thy pen from lender's book, and defy the foul
fiend. Still through the hawthorn blows the cold wind: says
fiend. Still through the hawthorn blows the cold wind: says
suum, mun, nonny. Dolphin my boy, boy, sessa! let him trot by.</p>
suum, mun, nonny. Dolphin my boy, boy, sessa! let him trot by.</p>


Line 3,754: Line 6,116:


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Why, thou wert better in thy grave than to answer with thy uncovered
Why, thou wert better in thy grave than to answer with thy uncovered
body this extremity of the skies. Is man no more than this? Consider
body this extremity of the skies. Is man no more than this? Consider
him well. Thou owest the worm no silk, the beast no hide, the sheep no
him well. Thou owest the worm no silk, the beast no hide, the sheep no
wool, the cat no perfume. Ha! here's three on's are
wool, the cat no perfume. Ha! here's three on's are
sophisticated! Thou art the thing itself: unaccommodated man is no more
sophisticated! Thou art the thing itself: unaccommodated man is no more
but such a poor, bare, forked animal as thou art. Off, off, you
but such a poor, bare, forked animal as thou art. Off, off, you
lendings! Come, unbutton here.
lendings! Come, unbutton here.
</p>
</p>


Line 3,766: Line 6,136:


<p>FOOL.<br/>
<p>FOOL.<br/>
Prythee, nuncle, be contented; 'tis a naughty night to swim
Prythee, nuncle, be contented; 'tis a naughty night to swim
in. Now a little fire in a wild field were like an old lecher's
in. Now a little fire in a wild field were like an old lecher's
heart, a small spark, all the rest on's body cold. Look, here
heart, a small spark, all the rest on's body cold. Look, here
comes a walking fire.</p>
comes a walking fire.</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
This is the foul fiend Flibbertigibbet: he begins at curfew, and walks till the
This is the foul fiend Flibbertigibbet: he begins at curfew, and walks till the
first cock; he gives the web and the pin, squints the eye, and makes the
first cock; he gives the web and the pin, squints the eye, and makes the
harelip; mildews the white wheat, and hurts the poor creature of earth.<br/>
harelip; mildews the white wheat, and hurts the poor creature of earth.<br/>
   Swithold footed thrice the old;<br/>
   Swithold footed thrice the old;<br/>
   He met the nightmare, and her nine-fold;<br/>
   He met the nightmare, and her nine-fold;<br/>
     Bid her alight and her troth plight,<br/>
     Bid her alight and her troth plight,<br/>
   And aroint thee, witch, aroint thee!
   And aroint thee, witch, aroint thee!
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
How fares your grace?
How fares your grace?
</p>
</p>


<p class="scenedesc"> Enter <span class="charname">Gloucester</span> with a
<p class="scenedesc"> Enter <span class="charname">Gloucester</span> with a
torch.</p>
torch.</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
What's he?
What's he?
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
Who's there? What is't you seek?
Who's there? What is't you seek?
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
What are you there? Your names?
What are you there? Your names?
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
Poor Tom; that eats the swimming frog, the toad, the todpole, the
Poor Tom; that eats the swimming frog, the toad, the todpole, the
wall-newt and the water; that in the fury of his heart, when the
wall-newt and the water; that in the fury of his heart, when the
foul fiend rages, eats cow-dung for sallets; swallows the old rat
foul fiend rages, eats cow-dung for sallets; swallows the old rat
and the ditch-dog; drinks the green mantle of the standing pool;
and the ditch-dog; drinks the green mantle of the standing pool;
who is whipped from tithing to tithing, and stocked, punished,
who is whipped from tithing to tithing, and stocked, punished,
and imprisoned; who hath had three suits to his back, six shirts
and imprisoned; who hath had three suits to his back, six shirts
to his body,<br/>
to his body,<br/>
     Horse to ride, and weapon to wear.<br/>
     Horse to ride, and weapon to wear.<br/>
     But mice and rats and such small deer,<br/>
     But mice and rats and such small deer,<br/>
     Have been Tom's food for seven long year.<br/>
     Have been Tom's food for seven long year.<br/>
Beware my follower. Peace, Smulkin; peace, thou fiend!
Beware my follower. Peace, Smulkin; peace, thou fiend!
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
What, hath your grace no better company?
What, hath your grace no better company?
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
The prince of darkness is a gentleman:<br/>
The prince of darkness is a gentleman:<br/>
Modo he's call'd, and Mahu.
Modo he's call'd, and Mahu.
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
Our flesh and blood, my lord, is grown so vile<br/>
Our flesh and blood, my lord, is grown so vile<br/>
That it doth hate what gets it.
That it doth hate what gets it.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
Poor Tom's a-cold.
Poor Tom's a-cold.
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
Go in with me: my duty cannot suffer<br/>
Go in with me: my duty cannot suffer<br/>
T'obey in all your daughters' hard commands;<br/>
T'obey in all your daughters' hard commands;<br/>
Though their injunction be to bar my doors,<br/>
Though their injunction be to bar my doors,<br/>
And let this tyrannous night take hold upon you,<br/>
And let this tyrannous night take hold upon you,<br/>
Yet have I ventur'd to come seek you out,<br/>
Yet have I ventur'd to come seek you out,<br/>
And bring you where both fire and food is ready.
And bring you where both fire and food is ready.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
First let me talk with this philosopher.<br/>
First let me talk with this philosopher.<br/>
What is the cause of thunder?
What is the cause of thunder?
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
Good my lord, take his offer; go into the house.
Good my lord, take his offer; go into the house.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
I'll talk a word with this same learned Theban.<br/>
I'll talk a word with this same learned Theban.<br/>
What is your study?
What is your study?
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
How to prevent the fiend and to kill vermin.
How to prevent the fiend and to kill vermin.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Let me ask you one word in private.
Let me ask you one word in private.
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
Importune him once more to go, my lord;<br/>
Importune him once more to go, my lord;<br/>
His wits begin t'unsettle.
His wits begin t'unsettle.
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
Canst thou blame him?<br/>
Canst thou blame him?<br/>
His daughters seek his death. Ah, that good Kent!<br/>
His daughters seek his death. Ah, that good Kent!<br/>
He said it would be thus, poor banish'd man!<br/>
He said it would be thus, poor banish'd man!<br/>
Thou sayest the King grows mad; I'll tell thee, friend,<br/>
Thou sayest the King grows mad; I'll tell thee, friend,<br/>
I am almost mad myself. I had a son,<br/>
I am almost mad myself. I had a son,<br/>
Now outlaw'd from my blood; he sought my life<br/>
Now outlaw'd from my blood; he sought my life<br/>
But lately, very late: I lov'd him, friend,<br/>
But lately, very late: I lov'd him, friend,<br/>
No father his son dearer: true to tell thee,
No father his son dearer: true to tell thee,
</p>
</p>


Line 3,882: Line 6,326:


<p>The grief hath craz'd my wits. What a night's this!<br/>
<p>The grief hath craz'd my wits. What a night's this!<br/>
I do beseech your grace.
I do beseech your grace.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
O, cry you mercy, sir.<br/>
O, cry you mercy, sir.<br/>
Noble philosopher, your company.
Noble philosopher, your company.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
Tom's a-cold.
Tom's a-cold.
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
In, fellow, there, into the hovel; keep thee warm.
In, fellow, there, into the hovel; keep thee warm.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Come, let's in all.
Come, let's in all.
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
This way, my lord.
This way, my lord.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
With him;<br/>
With him;<br/>
I will keep still with my philosopher.
I will keep still with my philosopher.
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
Good my lord, soothe him; let him take the fellow.
Good my lord, soothe him; let him take the fellow.
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
Take him you on.
Take him you on.
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
Sirrah, come on; go along with us.
Sirrah, come on; go along with us.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Come, good Athenian.
Come, good Athenian.
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
No words, no words, hush.
No words, no words, hush.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
   Child Rowland to the dark tower came,<br/>
   Child Rowland to the dark tower came,<br/>
   His word was still&mdash;Fie, foh, and fum,<br/>
 
   His word was still&amp;mdash;Fie, foh, and fum,<br/>
 
   I smell the blood of a British man.
   I smell the blood of a British man.
</p>
</p>


Line 3,942: Line 6,416:


<p class="scenedesc"> Enter <span class="charname">Cornwall</span> and <span
<p class="scenedesc"> Enter <span class="charname">Cornwall</span> and <span
class="charname">Edmund</span>.</p>
class="charname">Edmund</span>.</p>


<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
I will have my revenge ere I depart his house.
I will have my revenge ere I depart his house.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
How, my lord, I may be censured, that nature thus gives way to
How, my lord, I may be censured, that nature thus gives way to
loyalty, something fears me to think of.</p>
loyalty, something fears me to think of.</p>


<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
I now perceive it was not altogether your brother's evil
I now perceive it was not altogether your brother's evil
disposition made him seek his death; but a provoking merit, set
disposition made him seek his death; but a provoking merit, set
a-work by a reproveable badness in himself.</p>
a-work by a reproveable badness in himself.</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
How malicious is my fortune, that I must repent to be just! This
How malicious is my fortune, that I must repent to be just! This
is the letter he spoke of, which approves him an intelligent
is the letter he spoke of, which approves him an intelligent
party to the advantages of France. O heavens! that this treason
party to the advantages of France. O heavens! that this treason
were not; or not I the detector!</p>
were not; or not I the detector!</p>


<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
Go with me to the Duchess.
Go with me to the Duchess.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
If the matter of this paper be certain, you have mighty business
If the matter of this paper be certain, you have mighty business
in hand.</p>
in hand.</p>


<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
True or false, it hath made thee Earl of Gloucester. Seek out
True or false, it hath made thee Earl of Gloucester. Seek out
where thy father is, that he may be ready for our apprehension.</p>
where thy father is, that he may be ready for our apprehension.</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
[<i>Aside.</i>] If I find him comforting the King, it will stuff his
[<i>Aside.</i>] If I find him comforting the King, it will stuff his
suspicion more fully. I will persever in my course of loyalty,
suspicion more fully. I will persever in my course of loyalty,
though the conflict be sore between that and my blood.</p>
though the conflict be sore between that and my blood.</p>


<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
I will lay trust upon thee; and thou shalt find a dearer father
I will lay trust upon thee; and thou shalt find a dearer father
in my love.</p>
in my love.</p>


Line 3,989: Line 6,486:


<p class="scenedesc"> Enter <span class="charname">Gloucester, Lear, Kent,
<p class="scenedesc"> Enter <span class="charname">Gloucester, Lear, Kent,
Fool</span> and <span class="charname">Edgar</span>.</p>
Fool</span> and <span class="charname">Edgar</span>.</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
Here is better than the open air; take it thankfully. I will
Here is better than the open air; take it thankfully. I will
piece out the comfort with what addition I can: I will not be
piece out the comfort with what addition I can: I will not be
long from you.</p>
long from you.</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
All the power of his wits have given way to his impatience:&mdash;
 
All the power of his wits have given way to his impatience:&amp;mdash;
 
the gods reward your kindness!</p>
the gods reward your kindness!</p>


Line 4,003: Line 6,506:


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
Frateretto calls me; and tells me Nero is an angler in the lake
Frateretto calls me; and tells me Nero is an angler in the lake
of darkness. Pray, innocent, and beware the foul fiend.</p>
of darkness. Pray, innocent, and beware the foul fiend.</p>


<p>FOOL.<br/>
<p>FOOL.<br/>
Prythee, nuncle, tell me whether a madman be a gentleman or a
Prythee, nuncle, tell me whether a madman be a gentleman or a
yeoman.</p>
yeoman.</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
A king, a king!
A king, a king!
</p>
</p>


<p>FOOL.<br/>
<p>FOOL.<br/>
No, he's a yeoman that has a gentleman to his son; for he's a mad
No, he's a yeoman that has a gentleman to his son; for he's a mad
yeoman that sees his son a gentleman before him.</p>
yeoman that sees his son a gentleman before him.</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
To have a thousand with red burning spits<br/>
To have a thousand with red burning spits<br/>
Come hissing in upon 'em.
Come hissing in upon 'em.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
The foul fiend bites my back.
The foul fiend bites my back.
</p>
</p>


<p>FOOL.<br/>
<p>FOOL.<br/>
He's mad that trusts in the tameness of a wolf, a horse's health,
He's mad that trusts in the tameness of a wolf, a horse's health,
a boy's love, or a whore's oath.</p>
a boy's love, or a whore's oath.</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
It shall be done; I will arraign them straight.<br/>
It shall be done; I will arraign them straight.<br/>
[<i>To Edgar.</i>] Come, sit thou here, most learned justicer;<br/>
[<i>To Edgar.</i>] Come, sit thou here, most learned justicer;<br/>
[<i>To the Fool.</i>] Thou, sapient sir, sit here. Now, you she-foxes!&mdash;
 
[<i>To the Fool.</i>] Thou, sapient sir, sit here. Now, you she-foxes!&amp;mdash;
 
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
Look, where he stands and glares! Want'st thou eyes at trial, madam?<br/>
Look, where he stands and glares! Want'st thou eyes at trial, madam?<br/>
   Come o'er the bourn, Bessy, to me.
   Come o'er the bourn, Bessy, to me.
</p>
</p>


<p>FOOL.<br/>
<p>FOOL.<br/>
   Her boat hath a leak,<br/>
   Her boat hath a leak,<br/>
   And she must not speak<br/>
   And she must not speak<br/>
   Why she dares not come over to thee.
   Why she dares not come over to thee.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
The foul fiend haunts poor Tom in the voice of a nightingale. Hoppedance cries
The foul fiend haunts poor Tom in the voice of a nightingale. Hoppedance cries
in Tom's belly for two white herring. Croak not, black angel; I have no
in Tom's belly for two white herring. Croak not, black angel; I have no
food for thee.
food for thee.
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
How do you, sir? Stand you not so amaz'd;<br/>
How do you, sir? Stand you not so amaz'd;<br/>
Will you lie down and rest upon the cushions?
Will you lie down and rest upon the cushions?
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
I'll see their trial first. Bring in their evidence.<br/>
I'll see their trial first. Bring in their evidence.<br/>
[<i>To Edgar.</i>] Thou, robed man of justice, take thy place.<br/>
[<i>To Edgar.</i>] Thou, robed man of justice, take thy place.<br/>
[<i>To the Fool.</i>] And thou, his yokefellow of equity,<br/>
[<i>To the Fool.</i>] And thou, his yokefellow of equity,<br/>
Bench by his side. [<i>To Kent.</i>] You are o' the commission,<br/>
Bench by his side. [<i>To Kent.</i>] You are o' the commission,<br/>
Sit you too.
Sit you too.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
   Let us deal justly.<br/>
   Let us deal justly.<br/>
   Sleepest or wakest thou, jolly shepherd?<br/>
   Sleepest or wakest thou, jolly shepherd?<br/>
     Thy sheep be in the corn;<br/>
     Thy sheep be in the corn;<br/>
   And for one blast of thy minikin mouth<br/>
   And for one blast of thy minikin mouth<br/>
     Thy sheep shall take no harm.<br/>
     Thy sheep shall take no harm.<br/>
Purr! the cat is grey.
Purr! the cat is grey.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Arraign her first; 'tis Goneril. I here take my oath before
Arraign her first; 'tis Goneril. I here take my oath before
this honourable assembly, she kicked the poor King her father.</p>
this honourable assembly, she kicked the poor King her father.</p>


<p>FOOL.<br/>
<p>FOOL.<br/>
Come hither, mistress. Is your name Goneril?
Come hither, mistress. Is your name Goneril?
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
She cannot deny it.
She cannot deny it.
</p>
</p>


<p>FOOL.<br/>
<p>FOOL.<br/>
Cry you mercy, I took you for a joint-stool.
Cry you mercy, I took you for a joint-stool.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
And here's another, whose warp'd looks proclaim<br/>
And here's another, whose warp'd looks proclaim<br/>
What store her heart is made on. Stop her there!<br/>
What store her heart is made on. Stop her there!<br/>
Arms, arms! sword! fire! Corruption in the place!<br/>
Arms, arms! sword! fire! Corruption in the place!<br/>
False justicer, why hast thou let her 'scape?
False justicer, why hast thou let her 'scape?
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
Bless thy five wits!
Bless thy five wits!
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
O pity! Sir, where is the patience now<br/>
O pity! Sir, where is the patience now<br/>
That you so oft have boasted to retain?
That you so oft have boasted to retain?
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
[<i>Aside.</i>] My tears begin to take his part so much<br/>
[<i>Aside.</i>] My tears begin to take his part so much<br/>
They mar my counterfeiting.
They mar my counterfeiting.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
The little dogs and all,<br/>
The little dogs and all,<br/>
Trey, Blanch, and Sweetheart, see, they bark at me.
Trey, Blanch, and Sweetheart, see, they bark at me.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
Tom will throw his head at them. Avaunt, you curs!<br/>
Tom will throw his head at them. Avaunt, you curs!<br/>
   Be thy mouth or black or white,<br/>
   Be thy mouth or black or white,<br/>
   Tooth that poisons if it bite;<br/>
   Tooth that poisons if it bite;<br/>
   Mastiff, greyhound, mongrel grim,<br/>
   Mastiff, greyhound, mongrel grim,<br/>
   Hound or spaniel, brach or him,<br/>
   Hound or spaniel, brach or him,<br/>
   Or bobtail tike or trundle-tail,<br/>
   Or bobtail tike or trundle-tail,<br/>
   Tom will make them weep and wail;<br/>
   Tom will make them weep and wail;<br/>
   For, with throwing thus my head,<br/>
   For, with throwing thus my head,<br/>
   Dogs leap the hatch, and all are fled.<br/>
   Dogs leap the hatch, and all are fled.<br/>
Do, de, de, de. Sessa! Come, march to wakes and fairs and market towns.
Do, de, de, de. Sessa! Come, march to wakes and fairs and market towns.
Poor Tom, thy horn is dry.
Poor Tom, thy horn is dry.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Then let them anatomize Regan; see what breeds about her
Then let them anatomize Regan; see what breeds about her
heart. Is there any cause in nature that makes these hard
heart. Is there any cause in nature that makes these hard
hearts? [<i>To Edgar.</i>] You, sir, I entertain you for one of my
hearts? [<i>To Edgar.</i>] You, sir, I entertain you for one of my
hundred; only I do not like the fashion of your garments. You'll
hundred; only I do not like the fashion of your garments. You'll
say they are Persian; but let them be changed.</p>
say they are Persian; but let them be changed.</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
Now, good my lord, lie here and rest awhile.
Now, good my lord, lie here and rest awhile.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Make no noise, make no noise; draw the curtains.<br/>
Make no noise, make no noise; draw the curtains.<br/>
So, so. We'll go to supper i' the morning.
So, so. We'll go to supper i' the morning.
</p>
</p>


<p>FOOL.<br/>
<p>FOOL.<br/>
And I'll go to bed at noon.
And I'll go to bed at noon.
</p>
</p>


Line 4,155: Line 6,752:


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
Come hither, friend;<br/>
Come hither, friend;<br/>
Where is the King my master?
Where is the King my master?
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
Here, sir; but trouble him not, his wits are gone.
Here, sir; but trouble him not, his wits are gone.
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
Good friend, I prythee, take him in thy arms;<br/>
Good friend, I prythee, take him in thy arms;<br/>
I have o'erheard a plot of death upon him;<br/>
I have o'erheard a plot of death upon him;<br/>
There is a litter ready; lay him in't<br/>
There is a litter ready; lay him in't<br/>
And drive towards Dover, friend, where thou shalt meet<br/>
And drive towards Dover, friend, where thou shalt meet<br/>
Both welcome and protection. Take up thy master;<br/>
Both welcome and protection. Take up thy master;<br/>
If thou shouldst dally half an hour, his life,<br/>
If thou shouldst dally half an hour, his life,<br/>
With thine, and all that offer to defend him,<br/>
With thine, and all that offer to defend him,<br/>
Stand in assured loss. Take up, take up;<br/>
Stand in assured loss. Take up, take up;<br/>
And follow me, that will to some provision<br/>
And follow me, that will to some provision<br/>
Give thee quick conduct.
Give thee quick conduct.
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
Oppressed nature sleeps.<br/>
Oppressed nature sleeps.<br/>
This rest might yet have balm'd thy broken sinews,<br/>
This rest might yet have balm'd thy broken sinews,<br/>
Which, if convenience will not allow,<br/>
Which, if convenience will not allow,<br/>
Stand in hard cure. Come, help to bear thy master;<br/>
Stand in hard cure. Come, help to bear thy master;<br/>
[<i>To the Fool.</i>] Thou must not stay behind.
[<i>To the Fool.</i>] Thou must not stay behind.
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
Come, come, away!
Come, come, away!
</p>
</p>


<p class="right"> [<i>Exeunt <span class="charname">Kent, Gloucester</span> and
<p class="right"> [<i>Exeunt <span class="charname">Kent, Gloucester</span> and
the <span class="charname">Fool</span> bearing off <span
the <span class="charname">Fool</span> bearing off <span
class="charname">Lear</span>.</i>]</p>
class="charname">Lear</span>.</i>]</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
When we our betters see bearing our woes,<br/>
When we our betters see bearing our woes,<br/>
We scarcely think our miseries our foes.<br/>
We scarcely think our miseries our foes.<br/>
Who alone suffers, suffers most i' the mind,<br/>
Who alone suffers, suffers most i' the mind,<br/>
Leaving free things and happy shows behind:<br/>
Leaving free things and happy shows behind:<br/>
But then the mind much sufferance doth o'erskip<br/>
But then the mind much sufferance doth o'erskip<br/>
When grief hath mates, and bearing fellowship.<br/>
When grief hath mates, and bearing fellowship.<br/>
How light and portable my pain seems now,<br/>
How light and portable my pain seems now,<br/>
When that which makes me bend makes the King bow;<br/>
When that which makes me bend makes the King bow;<br/>
He childed as I fathered! Tom, away!<br/>
He childed as I fathered! Tom, away!<br/>
Mark the high noises; and thyself bewray,<br/>
Mark the high noises; and thyself bewray,<br/>
When false opinion, whose wrong thoughts defile thee,<br/>
When false opinion, whose wrong thoughts defile thee,<br/>
In thy just proof repeals and reconciles thee.<br/>
In thy just proof repeals and reconciles thee.<br/>
What will hap more tonight, safe 'scape the King!<br/>
What will hap more tonight, safe 'scape the King!<br/>
Lurk, lurk.
Lurk, lurk.
</p>
</p>


Line 4,214: Line 6,852:


<p class="scenedesc"> Enter <span class="charname">Cornwall, Regan, Goneril,
<p class="scenedesc"> Enter <span class="charname">Cornwall, Regan, Goneril,
Edmund</span> and <span class="charname">Servants</span>.</p>
Edmund</span> and <span class="charname">Servants</span>.</p>


<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
Post speedily to my lord your husband, show him this letter: the army
Post speedily to my lord your husband, show him this letter: the army
of France is landed. Seek out the traitor Gloucester.</p>
of France is landed. Seek out the traitor Gloucester.</p>


Line 4,223: Line 6,864:


<p>REGAN.<br/>
<p>REGAN.<br/>
Hang him instantly.
Hang him instantly.
</p>
</p>


<p>GONERIL.<br/>
<p>GONERIL.<br/>
Pluck out his eyes.
Pluck out his eyes.
</p>
</p>


<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
Leave him to my displeasure. Edmund, keep you our sister
Leave him to my displeasure. Edmund, keep you our sister
company: the revenges we are bound to take upon your traitorous
company: the revenges we are bound to take upon your traitorous
father are not fit for your beholding. Advise the Duke where you
father are not fit for your beholding. Advise the Duke where you
are going, to a most festinate preparation: we are bound to the
are going, to a most festinate preparation: we are bound to the
like. Our posts shall be swift and intelligent betwixt us.
like. Our posts shall be swift and intelligent betwixt us.
Farewell, dear sister, farewell, my lord of Gloucester.</p>
Farewell, dear sister, farewell, my lord of Gloucester.</p>


Line 4,243: Line 6,894:


<p>OSWALD.<br/>
<p>OSWALD.<br/>
My lord of Gloucester hath convey'd him hence:<br/>
My lord of Gloucester hath convey'd him hence:<br/>
Some five or six and thirty of his knights,<br/>
Some five or six and thirty of his knights,<br/>
Hot questrists after him, met him at gate;<br/>
Hot questrists after him, met him at gate;<br/>
Who, with some other of the lord's dependants,<br/>
Who, with some other of the lord's dependants,<br/>
Are gone with him toward Dover: where they boast<br/>
Are gone with him toward Dover: where they boast<br/>
To have well-armed friends.
To have well-armed friends.
</p>
</p>


<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
Get horses for your mistress.
Get horses for your mistress.
</p>
</p>


<p>GONERIL.<br/>
<p>GONERIL.<br/>
Farewell, sweet lord, and sister.
Farewell, sweet lord, and sister.
</p>
</p>


<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
Edmund, farewell.
Edmund, farewell.
</p>
</p>


<p class="right"> [<i>Exeunt <span class="charname">Goneril, Edmund</span> and
<p class="right"> [<i>Exeunt <span class="charname">Goneril, Edmund</span> and
<span class="charname">Oswald</span>.</i>]</p>
<span class="charname">Oswald</span>.</i>]</p>


<p>Go seek the traitor Gloucester,<br/>
<p>Go seek the traitor Gloucester,<br/>
Pinion him like a thief, bring him before us.
Pinion him like a thief, bring him before us.
</p>
</p>


Line 4,273: Line 6,940:


<p>Though well we may not pass upon his life<br/>
<p>Though well we may not pass upon his life<br/>
Without the form of justice, yet our power<br/>
Without the form of justice, yet our power<br/>
Shall do a courtesy to our wrath, which men<br/>
Shall do a courtesy to our wrath, which men<br/>
May blame, but not control. Who's there? The traitor?
May blame, but not control. Who's there? The traitor?
</p>
</p>


<p class="scenedesc"> Enter <span class="charname">Gloucester</span>
<p class="scenedesc"> Enter <span class="charname">Gloucester</span>
and Servants.</p>
and Servants.</p>


<p>REGAN.<br/>
<p>REGAN.<br/>
Ingrateful fox! 'tis he.
Ingrateful fox! 'tis he.
</p>
</p>


<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
Bind fast his corky arms.
Bind fast his corky arms.
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
What mean your graces?<br/>
What mean your graces?<br/>
Good my friends, consider you are my guests.<br/>
Good my friends, consider you are my guests.<br/>
Do me no foul play, friends.
Do me no foul play, friends.
</p>
</p>


<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
Bind him, I say.
Bind him, I say.
</p>
</p>


Line 4,302: Line 6,984:


<p>REGAN.<br/>
<p>REGAN.<br/>
Hard, hard. O filthy traitor!
Hard, hard. O filthy traitor!
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
Unmerciful lady as you are, I'm none.
Unmerciful lady as you are, I'm none.
</p>
</p>


<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
To this chair bind him. Villain, thou shalt find&mdash;
 
To this chair bind him. Villain, thou shalt find&amp;mdash;
 
</p>
</p>


<p class="right"> [<i><span class="charname">Regan</span> plucks his
<p class="right"> [<i><span class="charname">Regan</span> plucks his
beard.</i>]</p>
beard.</i>]</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
By the kind gods, 'tis most ignobly done<br/>
By the kind gods, 'tis most ignobly done<br/>
To pluck me by the beard.
To pluck me by the beard.
</p>
</p>


<p>REGAN.<br/>
<p>REGAN.<br/>
So white, and such a traitor!
So white, and such a traitor!
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
Naughty lady,<br/>
Naughty lady,<br/>
These hairs which thou dost ravish from my chin<br/>
These hairs which thou dost ravish from my chin<br/>
Will quicken, and accuse thee. I am your host:<br/>
Will quicken, and accuse thee. I am your host:<br/>
With robber's hands my hospitable favours<br/>
With robber's hands my hospitable favours<br/>
You should not ruffle thus. What will you do?
You should not ruffle thus. What will you do?
</p>
</p>


<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
Come, sir, what letters had you late from France?
Come, sir, what letters had you late from France?
</p>
</p>


<p>REGAN.<br/>
<p>REGAN.<br/>
Be simple answer'd, for we know the truth.
Be simple answer'd, for we know the truth.
</p>
</p>


<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
And what confederacy have you with the traitors,<br/>
And what confederacy have you with the traitors,<br/>
Late footed in the kingdom?
Late footed in the kingdom?
</p>
</p>


<p>REGAN.<br/>
<p>REGAN.<br/>
To whose hands have you sent the lunatic King?<br/>
To whose hands have you sent the lunatic King?<br/>
Speak.
Speak.
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
I have a letter guessingly set down,<br/>
I have a letter guessingly set down,<br/>
Which came from one that's of a neutral heart,<br/>
Which came from one that's of a neutral heart,<br/>
And not from one oppos'd.
And not from one oppos'd.
</p>
</p>


<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
Cunning.
Cunning.
</p>
</p>


<p>REGAN.<br/>
<p>REGAN.<br/>
And false.
And false.
</p>
</p>


<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
Where hast thou sent the King?
Where hast thou sent the King?
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
To Dover.
To Dover.
</p>
</p>


<p>REGAN.<br/>
<p>REGAN.<br/>
Wherefore to Dover? Wast thou not charg'd at peril,&mdash;
 
Wherefore to Dover? Wast thou not charg'd at peril,&amp;mdash;
 
</p>
</p>


<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
Wherefore to Dover? Let him first answer that.
Wherefore to Dover? Let him first answer that.
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
I am tied to the stake, and I must stand the course.
I am tied to the stake, and I must stand the course.
</p>
</p>


<p>REGAN.<br/>
<p>REGAN.<br/>
Wherefore to Dover, sir?
Wherefore to Dover, sir?
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
Because I would not see thy cruel nails<br/>
Because I would not see thy cruel nails<br/>
Pluck out his poor old eyes; nor thy fierce sister<br/>
Pluck out his poor old eyes; nor thy fierce sister<br/>
In his anointed flesh stick boarish fangs.<br/>
In his anointed flesh stick boarish fangs.<br/>
The sea, with such a storm as his bare head<br/>
The sea, with such a storm as his bare head<br/>
In hell-black night endur'd, would have buoy'd up,<br/>
In hell-black night endur'd, would have buoy'd up,<br/>
And quench'd the stelled fires;<br/>
And quench'd the stelled fires;<br/>
Yet, poor old heart, he holp the heavens to rain.<br/>
Yet, poor old heart, he holp the heavens to rain.<br/>
If wolves had at thy gate howl'd that stern time,<br/>
If wolves had at thy gate howl'd that stern time,<br/>
Thou shouldst have said, 'Good porter, turn the key.'<br/>
Thou shouldst have said, 'Good porter, turn the key.'<br/>
All cruels else subscrib'd: but I shall see<br/>
All cruels else subscrib'd: but I shall see<br/>
The winged vengeance overtake such children.
The winged vengeance overtake such children.
</p>
</p>


<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
See't shalt thou never. Fellows, hold the chair.<br/>
See't shalt thou never. Fellows, hold the chair.<br/>
Upon these eyes of thine I'll set my foot.
Upon these eyes of thine I'll set my foot.
</p>
</p>


<p class="right"> [<i><span class="charname">Gloucester</span> is held down in
<p class="right"> [<i><span class="charname">Gloucester</span> is held down in
his chair, while <span class="charname">Cornwall</span> plucks out one
his chair, while <span class="charname">Cornwall</span> plucks out one
of his eyes and sets his foot on it.</i>]</p>
of his eyes and sets his foot on it.</i>]</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
He that will think to live till he be old,<br/>
He that will think to live till he be old,<br/>
Give me some help!&mdash;O cruel! O you gods!
 
Give me some help!&amp;mdash;O cruel! O you gods!
 
</p>
</p>


<p>REGAN.<br/>
<p>REGAN.<br/>
One side will mock another; the other too!
One side will mock another; the other too!
</p>
</p>


<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
If you see vengeance&mdash;
 
If you see vengeance&amp;mdash;
 
</p>
</p>


<p>FIRST SERVANT.<br/>
<p>FIRST SERVANT.<br/>
Hold your hand, my lord:<br/>
Hold your hand, my lord:<br/>
I have serv'd you ever since I was a child;<br/>
I have serv'd you ever since I was a child;<br/>
But better service have I never done you<br/>
But better service have I never done you<br/>
Than now to bid you hold.
Than now to bid you hold.
</p>
</p>


<p>REGAN.<br/>
<p>REGAN.<br/>
How now, you dog!
How now, you dog!
</p>
</p>


<p>FIRST SERVANT.<br/>
<p>FIRST SERVANT.<br/>
If you did wear a beard upon your chin,<br/>
If you did wear a beard upon your chin,<br/>
I'd shake it on this quarrel. What do you mean?
I'd shake it on this quarrel. What do you mean?
</p>
</p>


<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
My villain?
My villain?
</p>
</p>


Line 4,448: Line 7,214:


<p>FIRST SERVANT.<br/>
<p>FIRST SERVANT.<br/>
Nay, then, come on, and take the chance of anger.
Nay, then, come on, and take the chance of anger.
</p>
</p>


<p class="right"> [<i>Draws. They fight. <span class="charname">Cornwall</span>
<p class="right"> [<i>Draws. They fight. <span class="charname">Cornwall</span>
is wounded.</i>]</p>
is wounded.</i>]</p>


<p>REGAN.<br/>
<p>REGAN.<br/>
[<i>To another servant.</i>] Give me thy sword. A peasant stand up thus?
[<i>To another servant.</i>] Give me thy sword. A peasant stand up thus?
</p>
</p>


Line 4,461: Line 7,232:


<p>FIRST SERVANT.<br/>
<p>FIRST SERVANT.<br/>
O, I am slain! My lord, you have one eye left<br/>
O, I am slain! My lord, you have one eye left<br/>
To see some mischief on him. O!
To see some mischief on him. O!
</p>
</p>


Line 4,468: Line 7,242:


<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
Lest it see more, prevent it. Out, vile jelly!<br/>
Lest it see more, prevent it. Out, vile jelly!<br/>
Where is thy lustre now?
Where is thy lustre now?
</p>
</p>


<p class="right"> [<i>Tears out <span class="charname">Gloucester's</span>
<p class="right"> [<i>Tears out <span class="charname">Gloucester's</span>
other eye and throws it on the ground.</i>]</p>
other eye and throws it on the ground.</i>]</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
All dark and comfortless. Where's my son Edmund?<br/>
All dark and comfortless. Where's my son Edmund?<br/>
Edmund, enkindle all the sparks of nature<br/>
Edmund, enkindle all the sparks of nature<br/>
To quit this horrid act.
To quit this horrid act.
</p>
</p>


<p>REGAN.<br/>
<p>REGAN.<br/>
Out, treacherous villain!<br/>
Out, treacherous villain!<br/>
Thou call'st on him that hates thee: it was he<br/>
Thou call'st on him that hates thee: it was he<br/>
That made the overture of thy treasons to us;<br/>
That made the overture of thy treasons to us;<br/>
Who is too good to pity thee.
Who is too good to pity thee.
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
O my follies! Then Edgar was abus'd.<br/>
O my follies! Then Edgar was abus'd.<br/>
Kind gods, forgive me that, and prosper him!
Kind gods, forgive me that, and prosper him!
</p>
</p>


<p>REGAN.<br/>
<p>REGAN.<br/>
Go thrust him out at gates, and let him smell<br/>
Go thrust him out at gates, and let him smell<br/>
His way to Dover. How is't, my lord? How look you?
His way to Dover. How is't, my lord? How look you?
</p>
</p>


<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
<p>CORNWALL.<br/>
I have receiv'd a hurt: follow me, lady.<br/>
I have receiv'd a hurt: follow me, lady.<br/>
Turn out that eyeless villain. Throw this slave<br/>
Turn out that eyeless villain. Throw this slave<br/>
Upon the dunghill. Regan, I bleed apace:<br/>
Upon the dunghill. Regan, I bleed apace:<br/>
Untimely comes this hurt: give me your arm.
Untimely comes this hurt: give me your arm.
</p>
</p>


<p class="right"> [<i>Exit <span class="charname">Cornwall,</span> led by <span
<p class="right"> [<i>Exit <span class="charname">Cornwall,</span> led by <span
class="charname">Regan; Servants</span> unbind <span
class="charname">Regan; Servants</span> unbind <span
class="charname">Gloucester</span> and lead
class="charname">Gloucester</span> and lead
him out.</i>]</p>
him out.</i>]</p>


<p>SECOND SERVANT.<br/>
<p>SECOND SERVANT.<br/>
I'll never care what wickedness I do,<br/>
I'll never care what wickedness I do,<br/>
If this man come to good.
If this man come to good.
</p>
</p>


<p>THIRD SERVANT.<br/>
<p>THIRD SERVANT.<br/>
If she live long,<br/>
If she live long,<br/>
And in the end meet the old course of death,<br/>
And in the end meet the old course of death,<br/>
Women will all turn monsters.
Women will all turn monsters.
</p>
</p>


<p>SECOND SERVANT.<br/>
<p>SECOND SERVANT.<br/>
Let's follow the old Earl, and get the bedlam<br/>
Let's follow the old Earl, and get the bedlam<br/>
To lead him where he would: his roguish madness<br/>
To lead him where he would: his roguish madness<br/>
Allows itself to anything.
Allows itself to anything.
</p>
</p>


<p>THIRD SERVANT.<br/>
<p>THIRD SERVANT.<br/>
Go thou: I'll fetch some flax and whites of eggs<br/>
Go thou: I'll fetch some flax and whites of eggs<br/>
To apply to his bleeding face. Now heaven help him!
To apply to his bleeding face. Now heaven help him!
</p>
</p>


<p class="right"> [<i>Exeunt.</i>]</p>
<p class="right"> [<i>Exeunt.</i>]</p>


<h3 id="sceneIV_181"> <b>ACT IV</b></h3>
<h3 id="sceneIV_181"> <b>ACT IV</b></h3>
Line 4,545: Line 7,356:


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
Yet better thus, and known to be contemn'd,<br/>
Yet better thus, and known to be contemn'd,<br/>
Than still contemn'd and flatter'd. To be worst,<br/>
Than still contemn'd and flatter'd. To be worst,<br/>
The lowest and most dejected thing of fortune,<br/>
The lowest and most dejected thing of fortune,<br/>
Stands still in esperance, lives not in fear:<br/>
Stands still in esperance, lives not in fear:<br/>
The lamentable change is from the best;<br/>
The lamentable change is from the best;<br/>
The worst returns to laughter. Welcome then,<br/>
The worst returns to laughter. Welcome then,<br/>
Thou unsubstantial air that I embrace;<br/>
Thou unsubstantial air that I embrace;<br/>
The wretch that thou hast blown unto the worst<br/>
The wretch that thou hast blown unto the worst<br/>
Owes nothing to thy blasts.
Owes nothing to thy blasts.
</p>
</p>


<p class="scenedesc"> Enter <span class="charname">Gloucester</span>, led by an
<p class="scenedesc"> Enter <span class="charname">Gloucester</span>, led by an
<span class="charname">Old Man</span>.</p>
<span class="charname">Old Man</span>.</p>


<p>But who comes here? My father, poorly led?<br/>
<p>But who comes here? My father, poorly led?<br/>
World, world, O world!<br/>
World, world, O world!<br/>
But that thy strange mutations make us hate thee,<br/>
But that thy strange mutations make us hate thee,<br/>
Life would not yield to age.
Life would not yield to age.
</p>
</p>


<p>OLD MAN.<br/>
<p>OLD MAN.<br/>
O my good lord, I have been your tenant, and your father's tenant
O my good lord, I have been your tenant, and your father's tenant
these fourscore years.
these fourscore years.
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
Away, get thee away; good friend, be gone.<br/>
Away, get thee away; good friend, be gone.<br/>
Thy comforts can do me no good at all;<br/>
Thy comforts can do me no good at all;<br/>
Thee they may hurt.
Thee they may hurt.
</p>
</p>


<p>OLD MAN.<br/>
<p>OLD MAN.<br/>
You cannot see your way.
You cannot see your way.
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
I have no way, and therefore want no eyes;<br/>
I have no way, and therefore want no eyes;<br/>
I stumbled when I saw. Full oft 'tis seen<br/>
I stumbled when I saw. Full oft 'tis seen<br/>
Our means secure us, and our mere defects<br/>
Our means secure us, and our mere defects<br/>
Prove our commodities. O dear son Edgar,<br/>
Prove our commodities. O dear son Edgar,<br/>
The food of thy abused father's wrath!<br/>
The food of thy abused father's wrath!<br/>
Might I but live to see thee in my touch,<br/>
Might I but live to see thee in my touch,<br/>
I'd say I had eyes again!
I'd say I had eyes again!
</p>
</p>


<p>OLD MAN.<br/>
<p>OLD MAN.<br/>
How now! Who's there?
How now! Who's there?
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
[<i>Aside.</i>] O gods! Who is't can say 'I am at the
[<i>Aside.</i>] O gods! Who is't can say 'I am at the
worst'?<br/>
worst'?<br/>
I am worse than e'er I was.
I am worse than e'er I was.
</p>
</p>


<p>OLD MAN.<br/>
<p>OLD MAN.<br/>
'Tis poor mad Tom.
'Tis poor mad Tom.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
[<i>Aside.</i>] And worse I may be yet. The worst is not<br/>
[<i>Aside.</i>] And worse I may be yet. The worst is not<br/>
So long as we can say 'This is the worst.'
So long as we can say 'This is the worst.'
</p>
</p>


<p>OLD MAN.<br/>
<p>OLD MAN.<br/>
Fellow, where goest?
Fellow, where goest?
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
Is it a beggar-man?
Is it a beggar-man?
</p>
</p>


<p>OLD MAN.<br/>
<p>OLD MAN.<br/>
Madman, and beggar too.
Madman, and beggar too.
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
He has some reason, else he could not beg.<br/>
He has some reason, else he could not beg.<br/>
I' the last night's storm I such a fellow saw;<br/>
I' the last night's storm I such a fellow saw;<br/>
Which made me think a man a worm. My son<br/>
Which made me think a man a worm. My son<br/>
Came then into my mind, and yet my mind<br/>
Came then into my mind, and yet my mind<br/>
Was then scarce friends with him.<br/>
Was then scarce friends with him.<br/>
I have heard more since.<br/>
I have heard more since.<br/>
As flies to wanton boys are we to the gods,<br/>
As flies to wanton boys are we to the gods,<br/>
They kill us for their sport.
They kill us for their sport.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
[<i>Aside.</i>] How should this be?<br/>
[<i>Aside.</i>] How should this be?<br/>
Bad is the trade that must play fool to sorrow,<br/>
Bad is the trade that must play fool to sorrow,<br/>
Angering itself and others. Bless thee, master!
Angering itself and others. Bless thee, master!
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
Is that the naked fellow?
Is that the naked fellow?
</p>
</p>


<p>OLD MAN.<br/>
<p>OLD MAN.<br/>
Ay, my lord.
Ay, my lord.
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
Then prythee get thee away. If for my sake<br/>
Then prythee get thee away. If for my sake<br/>
Thou wilt o'ertake us hence a mile or twain,<br/>
Thou wilt o'ertake us hence a mile or twain,<br/>
I' the way toward Dover, do it for ancient love,<br/>
I' the way toward Dover, do it for ancient love,<br/>
And bring some covering for this naked soul,<br/>
And bring some covering for this naked soul,<br/>
Which I'll entreat to lead me.
Which I'll entreat to lead me.
</p>
</p>


<p>OLD MAN.<br/>
<p>OLD MAN.<br/>
Alack, sir, he is mad.
Alack, sir, he is mad.
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
'Tis the time's plague when madmen lead the blind.<br/>
'Tis the time's plague when madmen lead the blind.<br/>
Do as I bid thee, or rather do thy pleasure;<br/>
Do as I bid thee, or rather do thy pleasure;<br/>
Above the rest, be gone.
Above the rest, be gone.
</p>
</p>


<p>OLD MAN.<br/>
<p>OLD MAN.<br/>
I'll bring him the best 'parel that I have,<br/>
I'll bring him the best 'parel that I have,<br/>
Come on't what will.
Come on't what will.
</p>
</p>


Line 4,672: Line 7,564:


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
Sirrah naked fellow.
Sirrah naked fellow.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
Poor Tom's a-cold.<br/>
Poor Tom's a-cold.<br/>
[<i>Aside.</i>] I cannot daub it further.
[<i>Aside.</i>] I cannot daub it further.
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
Come hither, fellow.
Come hither, fellow.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
[<i>Aside.</i>] And yet I must. Bless thy sweet eyes, they bleed.
[<i>Aside.</i>] And yet I must. Bless thy sweet eyes, they bleed.
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
Know'st thou the way to Dover?
Know'st thou the way to Dover?
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
Both stile and gate, horseway and footpath. Poor Tom hath been
Both stile and gate, horseway and footpath. Poor Tom hath been
scared out of his good wits. Bless thee, good man's son, from
scared out of his good wits. Bless thee, good man's son, from
the foul fiend! Five fiends have been in poor Tom at once; of
the foul fiend! Five fiends have been in poor Tom at once; of
lust, as Obidicut; Hobbididence, prince of darkness; Mahu, of
lust, as Obidicut; Hobbididence, prince of darkness; Mahu, of
stealing; Modo, of murder; Flibbertigibbet, of mopping and
stealing; Modo, of murder; Flibbertigibbet, of mopping and
mowing, who since possesses chambermaids and waiting women. So,
mowing, who since possesses chambermaids and waiting women. So,
bless thee, master!</p>
bless thee, master!</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
Here, take this purse, thou whom the heaven's plagues<br/>
Here, take this purse, thou whom the heaven's plagues<br/>
Have humbled to all strokes: that I am wretched<br/>
Have humbled to all strokes: that I am wretched<br/>
Makes thee the happier. Heavens deal so still!<br/>
Makes thee the happier. Heavens deal so still!<br/>
Let the superfluous and lust-dieted man,<br/>
Let the superfluous and lust-dieted man,<br/>
That slaves your ordinance, that will not see<br/>
That slaves your ordinance, that will not see<br/>
Because he does not feel, feel your power quickly;<br/>
Because he does not feel, feel your power quickly;<br/>
So distribution should undo excess,<br/>
So distribution should undo excess,<br/>
And each man have enough. Dost thou know Dover?
And each man have enough. Dost thou know Dover?
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
Ay, master.
Ay, master.
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
There is a cliff, whose high and bending head<br/>
There is a cliff, whose high and bending head<br/>
Looks fearfully in the confined deep:<br/>
Looks fearfully in the confined deep:<br/>
Bring me but to the very brim of it,<br/>
Bring me but to the very brim of it,<br/>
And I'll repair the misery thou dost bear<br/>
And I'll repair the misery thou dost bear<br/>
With something rich about me: from that place<br/>
With something rich about me: from that place<br/>
I shall no leading need.
I shall no leading need.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
Give me thy arm:<br/>
Give me thy arm:<br/>
Poor Tom shall lead thee.
Poor Tom shall lead thee.
</p>
</p>


Line 4,735: Line 7,666:


<p class="scenedesc"> Enter <span class="charname">Goneril, Edmund;
<p class="scenedesc"> Enter <span class="charname">Goneril, Edmund;
Oswald</span> meeting them.</p>
Oswald</span> meeting them.</p>


<p>GONERIL.<br/>
<p>GONERIL.<br/>
Welcome, my lord. I marvel our mild husband<br/>
Welcome, my lord. I marvel our mild husband<br/>
Not met us on the way. Now, where's your master?
Not met us on the way. Now, where's your master?
</p>
</p>


<p>OSWALD.<br/>
<p>OSWALD.<br/>
Madam, within; but never man so chang'd.<br/>
Madam, within; but never man so chang'd.<br/>
I told him of the army that was landed;<br/>
I told him of the army that was landed;<br/>
He smil'd at it: I told him you were coming;<br/>
He smil'd at it: I told him you were coming;<br/>
His answer was, 'The worse.' Of Gloucester's treachery<br/>
His answer was, 'The worse.' Of Gloucester's treachery<br/>
And of the loyal service of his son<br/>
And of the loyal service of his son<br/>
When I inform'd him, then he call'd me sot,<br/>
When I inform'd him, then he call'd me sot,<br/>
And told me I had turn'd the wrong side out.<br/>
And told me I had turn'd the wrong side out.<br/>
What most he should dislike seems pleasant to him;<br/>
What most he should dislike seems pleasant to him;<br/>
What like, offensive.
What like, offensive.
</p>
</p>


<p>GONERIL.<br/>
<p>GONERIL.<br/>
[<i>To Edmund.</i>] Then shall you go no further.<br/>
[<i>To Edmund.</i>] Then shall you go no further.<br/>
It is the cowish terror of his spirit,<br/>
It is the cowish terror of his spirit,<br/>
That dares not undertake. He'll not feel wrongs<br/>
That dares not undertake. He'll not feel wrongs<br/>
Which tie him to an answer. Our wishes on the way<br/>
Which tie him to an answer. Our wishes on the way<br/>
May prove effects. Back, Edmund, to my brother;<br/>
May prove effects. Back, Edmund, to my brother;<br/>
Hasten his musters and conduct his powers.<br/>
Hasten his musters and conduct his powers.<br/>
I must change names at home, and give the distaff<br/>
I must change names at home, and give the distaff<br/>
Into my husband's hands. This trusty servant<br/>
Into my husband's hands. This trusty servant<br/>
Shall pass between us. Ere long you are like to hear,<br/>
Shall pass between us. Ere long you are like to hear,<br/>
If you dare venture in your own behalf,<br/>
If you dare venture in your own behalf,<br/>
A mistress's command. [<i>Giving a favour.</i>]<br/>
A mistress's command. [<i>Giving a favour.</i>]<br/>
Wear this; spare speech;<br/>
Wear this; spare speech;<br/>
Decline your head. This kiss, if it durst speak,<br/>
Decline your head. This kiss, if it durst speak,<br/>
Would stretch thy spirits up into the air.<br/>
Would stretch thy spirits up into the air.<br/>
Conceive, and fare thee well.
Conceive, and fare thee well.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
Yours in the ranks of death.
Yours in the ranks of death.
</p>
</p>


Line 4,779: Line 7,742:


<p>GONERIL.<br/>
<p>GONERIL.<br/>
My most dear Gloucester.<br/>
My most dear Gloucester.<br/>
O, the difference of man and man!<br/>
O, the difference of man and man!<br/>
To thee a woman's services are due;<br/>
To thee a woman's services are due;<br/>
My fool usurps my body.
My fool usurps my body.
</p>
</p>


<p>OSWALD.<br/>
<p>OSWALD.<br/>
Madam, here comes my lord.
Madam, here comes my lord.
</p>
</p>


Line 4,794: Line 7,764:


<p>GONERIL.<br/>
<p>GONERIL.<br/>
I have been worth the whistle.
I have been worth the whistle.
</p>
</p>


<p>ALBANY.<br/>
<p>ALBANY.<br/>
O Goneril!<br/>
O Goneril!<br/>
You are not worth the dust which the rude wind<br/>
You are not worth the dust which the rude wind<br/>
Blows in your face! I fear your disposition;<br/>
Blows in your face! I fear your disposition;<br/>
That nature which contemns its origin<br/>
That nature which contemns its origin<br/>
Cannot be bordered certain in itself.<br/>
Cannot be bordered certain in itself.<br/>
She that herself will sliver and disbranch<br/>
She that herself will sliver and disbranch<br/>
From her material sap, perforce must wither<br/>
From her material sap, perforce must wither<br/>
And come to deadly use.
And come to deadly use.
</p>
</p>


<p>GONERIL.<br/>
<p>GONERIL.<br/>
No more; the text is foolish.
No more; the text is foolish.
</p>
</p>


<p>ALBANY.<br/>
<p>ALBANY.<br/>
Wisdom and goodness to the vile seem vile;<br/>
Wisdom and goodness to the vile seem vile;<br/>
Filths savour but themselves. What have you done?<br/>
Filths savour but themselves. What have you done?<br/>
Tigers, not daughters, what have you perform'd?<br/>
Tigers, not daughters, what have you perform'd?<br/>
A father, and a gracious aged man,<br/>
A father, and a gracious aged man,<br/>
Whose reverence even the head-lugg'd bear would lick,<br/>
Whose reverence even the head-lugg'd bear would lick,<br/>
Most barbarous, most degenerate, have you madded.<br/>
Most barbarous, most degenerate, have you madded.<br/>
Could my good brother suffer you to do it?<br/>
Could my good brother suffer you to do it?<br/>
A man, a prince, by him so benefitted!<br/>
A man, a prince, by him so benefitted!<br/>
If that the heavens do not their visible spirits<br/>
If that the heavens do not their visible spirits<br/>
Send quickly down to tame these vile offences,<br/>
Send quickly down to tame these vile offences,<br/>
It will come,<br/>
It will come,<br/>
Humanity must perforce prey on itself,<br/>
Humanity must perforce prey on itself,<br/>
Like monsters of the deep.
Like monsters of the deep.
</p>
</p>


<p>GONERIL.<br/>
<p>GONERIL.<br/>
Milk-liver'd man!<br/>
Milk-liver'd man!<br/>
That bear'st a cheek for blows, a head for wrongs;<br/>
That bear'st a cheek for blows, a head for wrongs;<br/>
Who hast not in thy brows an eye discerning<br/>
Who hast not in thy brows an eye discerning<br/>
Thine honour from thy suffering; that not know'st<br/>
Thine honour from thy suffering; that not know'st<br/>
Fools do those villains pity who are punish'd<br/>
Fools do those villains pity who are punish'd<br/>
Ere they have done their mischief. Where's thy drum?<br/>
Ere they have done their mischief. Where's thy drum?<br/>
France spreads his banners in our noiseless land;<br/>
France spreads his banners in our noiseless land;<br/>
With plumed helm thy state begins to threat,<br/>
With plumed helm thy state begins to threat,<br/>
Whilst thou, a moral fool, sitt'st still, and criest<br/>
Whilst thou, a moral fool, sitt'st still, and criest<br/>
'Alack, why does he so?'
'Alack, why does he so?'
</p>
</p>


<p>ALBANY.<br/>
<p>ALBANY.<br/>
See thyself, devil!<br/>
See thyself, devil!<br/>
Proper deformity seems not in the fiend<br/>
Proper deformity seems not in the fiend<br/>
So horrid as in woman.
So horrid as in woman.
</p>
</p>


<p>GONERIL.<br/>
<p>GONERIL.<br/>
O vain fool!
O vain fool!
</p>
</p>


<p>ALBANY.<br/>
<p>ALBANY.<br/>
Thou changed and self-cover'd thing, for shame!<br/>
Thou changed and self-cover'd thing, for shame!<br/>
Be-monster not thy feature! Were't my fitness<br/>
Be-monster not thy feature! Were't my fitness<br/>
To let these hands obey my blood.<br/>
To let these hands obey my blood.<br/>
They are apt enough to dislocate and tear<br/>
They are apt enough to dislocate and tear<br/>
Thy flesh and bones. Howe'er thou art a fiend,<br/>
Thy flesh and bones. Howe'er thou art a fiend,<br/>
A woman's shape doth shield thee.
A woman's shape doth shield thee.
</p>
</p>


<p>GONERIL.<br/>
<p>GONERIL.<br/>
Marry, your manhood, mew!
Marry, your manhood, mew!
</p>
</p>


Line 4,867: Line 7,890:


<p>ALBANY.<br/>
<p>ALBANY.<br/>
What news?
What news?
</p>
</p>


<p>MESSENGER.<br/>
<p>MESSENGER.<br/>
O, my good lord, the Duke of Cornwall's dead;<br/>
O, my good lord, the Duke of Cornwall's dead;<br/>
Slain by his servant, going to put out<br/>
Slain by his servant, going to put out<br/>
The other eye of Gloucester.
The other eye of Gloucester.
</p>
</p>


<p>ALBANY.<br/>
<p>ALBANY.<br/>
Gloucester's eyes!
Gloucester's eyes!
</p>
</p>


<p>MESSENGER.<br/>
<p>MESSENGER.<br/>
A servant that he bred, thrill'd with remorse,<br/>
A servant that he bred, thrill'd with remorse,<br/>
Oppos'd against the act, bending his sword<br/>
Oppos'd against the act, bending his sword<br/>
To his great master; who, thereat enrag'd,<br/>
To his great master; who, thereat enrag'd,<br/>
Flew on him, and amongst them fell'd him dead;<br/>
Flew on him, and amongst them fell'd him dead;<br/>
But not without that harmful stroke which since<br/>
But not without that harmful stroke which since<br/>
Hath pluck'd him after.
Hath pluck'd him after.
</p>
</p>


<p>ALBANY.<br/>
<p>ALBANY.<br/>
This shows you are above,<br/>
This shows you are above,<br/>
You justicers, that these our nether crimes<br/>
You justicers, that these our nether crimes<br/>
So speedily can venge! But, O poor Gloucester!<br/>
So speedily can venge! But, O poor Gloucester!<br/>
Lost he his other eye?
Lost he his other eye?
</p>
</p>


<p>MESSENGER.<br/>
<p>MESSENGER.<br/>
Both, both, my lord.<br/>
Both, both, my lord.<br/>
This letter, madam, craves a speedy answer;<br/>
This letter, madam, craves a speedy answer;<br/>
'Tis from your sister.
'Tis from your sister.
</p>
</p>


<p>GONERIL.<br/>
<p>GONERIL.<br/>
[<i>Aside.</i>] One way I like this well;<br/>
[<i>Aside.</i>] One way I like this well;<br/>
But being widow, and my Gloucester with her,<br/>
But being widow, and my Gloucester with her,<br/>
May all the building in my fancy pluck<br/>
May all the building in my fancy pluck<br/>
Upon my hateful life. Another way<br/>
Upon my hateful life. Another way<br/>
The news is not so tart. I'll read, and answer.
The news is not so tart. I'll read, and answer.
</p>
</p>


Line 4,913: Line 7,966:


<p>ALBANY.<br/>
<p>ALBANY.<br/>
Where was his son when they did take his eyes?
Where was his son when they did take his eyes?
</p>
</p>


<p>MESSENGER.<br/>
<p>MESSENGER.<br/>
Come with my lady hither.
Come with my lady hither.
</p>
</p>


<p>ALBANY.<br/>
<p>ALBANY.<br/>
He is not here.
He is not here.
</p>
</p>


<p>MESSENGER.<br/>
<p>MESSENGER.<br/>
No, my good lord; I met him back again.
No, my good lord; I met him back again.
</p>
</p>


<p>ALBANY.<br/>
<p>ALBANY.<br/>
Knows he the wickedness?
Knows he the wickedness?
</p>
</p>


<p>MESSENGER.<br/>
<p>MESSENGER.<br/>
Ay, my good lord. 'Twas he inform'd against him;<br/>
Ay, my good lord. 'Twas he inform'd against him;<br/>
And quit the house on purpose, that their punishment<br/>
And quit the house on purpose, that their punishment<br/>
Might have the freer course.
Might have the freer course.
</p>
</p>


<p>ALBANY.<br/>
<p>ALBANY.<br/>
Gloucester, I live<br/>
Gloucester, I live<br/>
To thank thee for the love thou show'dst the King,<br/>
To thank thee for the love thou show'dst the King,<br/>
And to revenge thine eyes. Come hither, friend,<br/>
And to revenge thine eyes. Come hither, friend,<br/>
Tell me what more thou know'st.
Tell me what more thou know'st.
</p>
</p>


Line 4,950: Line 8,022:


<p class="scenedesc"> Enter <span class="charname">Kent</span> and a <span
<p class="scenedesc"> Enter <span class="charname">Kent</span> and a <span
class="charname">Gentleman</span>.</p>
class="charname">Gentleman</span>.</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
Why the King of France is so suddenly gone back, know you no
Why the King of France is so suddenly gone back, know you no
reason?</p>
reason?</p>


<p>GENTLEMAN.<br/>
<p>GENTLEMAN.<br/>
Something he left imperfect in the state, which since his coming
Something he left imperfect in the state, which since his coming
forth is thought of, which imports to the kingdom so much fear
forth is thought of, which imports to the kingdom so much fear
and danger that his personal return was most required and
and danger that his personal return was most required and
necessary.</p>
necessary.</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
Who hath he left behind him general?
Who hath he left behind him general?
</p>
</p>


<p>GENTLEMAN.<br/>
<p>GENTLEMAN.<br/>
The Mareschal of France, Monsieur La Far.
The Mareschal of France, Monsieur La Far.
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
Did your letters pierce the queen to any demonstration of grief?
Did your letters pierce the queen to any demonstration of grief?
</p>
</p>


<p>GENTLEMAN.<br/>
<p>GENTLEMAN.<br/>
Ay, sir; she took them, read them in my presence;<br/>
Ay, sir; she took them, read them in my presence;<br/>
And now and then an ample tear trill'd down<br/>
And now and then an ample tear trill'd down<br/>
Her delicate cheek. It seem'd she was a queen<br/>
Her delicate cheek. It seem'd she was a queen<br/>
Over her passion; who, most rebel-like,<br/>
Over her passion; who, most rebel-like,<br/>
Sought to be king o'er her.
Sought to be king o'er her.
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
O, then it mov'd her.
O, then it mov'd her.
</p>
</p>


<p>GENTLEMAN.<br/>
<p>GENTLEMAN.<br/>
Not to a rage: patience and sorrow strove<br/>
Not to a rage: patience and sorrow strove<br/>
Who should express her goodliest. You have seen<br/>
Who should express her goodliest. You have seen<br/>
Sunshine and rain at once: her smiles and tears<br/>
Sunshine and rain at once: her smiles and tears<br/>
Were like a better day. Those happy smilets<br/>
Were like a better day. Those happy smilets<br/>
That play'd on her ripe lip seem'd not to know<br/>
That play'd on her ripe lip seem'd not to know<br/>
What guests were in her eyes; which parted thence<br/>
What guests were in her eyes; which parted thence<br/>
As pearls from diamonds dropp'd. In brief,<br/>
As pearls from diamonds dropp'd. In brief,<br/>
Sorrow would be a rarity most belov'd,<br/>
Sorrow would be a rarity most belov'd,<br/>
If all could so become it.
If all could so become it.
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
Made she no verbal question?
Made she no verbal question?
</p>
</p>


<p>GENTLEMAN.<br/>
<p>GENTLEMAN.<br/>
Faith, once or twice she heav'd the name of 'father'<br/>
Faith, once or twice she heav'd the name of 'father'<br/>
Pantingly forth, as if it press'd her heart;<br/>
Pantingly forth, as if it press'd her heart;<br/>
Cried 'Sisters, sisters! Shame of ladies! sisters!<br/>
Cried 'Sisters, sisters! Shame of ladies! sisters!<br/>
Kent! father! sisters! What, i' the storm? i' the night?<br/>
Kent! father! sisters! What, i' the storm? i' the night?<br/>
Let pity not be believ'd!' There she shook<br/>
Let pity not be believ'd!' There she shook<br/>
The holy water from her heavenly eyes,<br/>
The holy water from her heavenly eyes,<br/>
And clamour master'd her: then away she started<br/>
And clamour master'd her: then away she started<br/>
To deal with grief alone.
To deal with grief alone.
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
It is the stars,<br/>
It is the stars,<br/>
The stars above us govern our conditions;<br/>
The stars above us govern our conditions;<br/>
Else one self mate and make could not beget<br/>
Else one self mate and make could not beget<br/>
Such different issues. You spoke not with her since?
Such different issues. You spoke not with her since?
</p>
</p>


<p>GENTLEMAN.<br/>
<p>GENTLEMAN.<br/>
No.
No.
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
Was this before the King return'd?
Was this before the King return'd?
</p>
</p>


<p>GENTLEMAN.<br/>
<p>GENTLEMAN.<br/>
No, since.
No, since.
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
Well, sir, the poor distressed Lear's i' the town;<br/>
Well, sir, the poor distressed Lear's i' the town;<br/>
Who sometime, in his better tune, remembers<br/>
Who sometime, in his better tune, remembers<br/>
What we are come about, and by no means<br/>
What we are come about, and by no means<br/>
Will yield to see his daughter.
Will yield to see his daughter.
</p>
</p>


<p>GENTLEMAN.<br/>
<p>GENTLEMAN.<br/>
Why, good sir?
Why, good sir?
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
A sovereign shame so elbows him. His own unkindness,<br/>
A sovereign shame so elbows him. His own unkindness,<br/>
That stripp'd her from his benediction, turn'd her<br/>
That stripp'd her from his benediction, turn'd her<br/>
To foreign casualties, gave her dear rights<br/>
To foreign casualties, gave her dear rights<br/>
To his dog-hearted daughters, these things sting<br/>
To his dog-hearted daughters, these things sting<br/>
His mind so venomously that burning shame<br/>
His mind so venomously that burning shame<br/>
Detains him from Cordelia.
Detains him from Cordelia.
</p>
</p>


<p>GENTLEMAN.<br/>
<p>GENTLEMAN.<br/>
Alack, poor gentleman!
Alack, poor gentleman!
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
Of Albany's and Cornwall's powers you heard not?
Of Albany's and Cornwall's powers you heard not?
</p>
</p>


<p>GENTLEMAN.<br/>
<p>GENTLEMAN.<br/>
'Tis so; they are afoot.
'Tis so; they are afoot.
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
Well, sir, I'll bring you to our master Lear<br/>
Well, sir, I'll bring you to our master Lear<br/>
And leave you to attend him. Some dear cause<br/>
And leave you to attend him. Some dear cause<br/>
Will in concealment wrap me up awhile;<br/>
Will in concealment wrap me up awhile;<br/>
When I am known aright, you shall not grieve<br/>
When I am known aright, you shall not grieve<br/>
Lending me this acquaintance.<br/>
Lending me this acquaintance.<br/>
I pray you, go along with me.
I pray you, go along with me.
</p>
</p>


Line 5,078: Line 8,230:


<p class="scenedesc"> Enter with drum and colours, <span
<p class="scenedesc"> Enter with drum and colours, <span
class="charname">Cordelia, Physician</span>
class="charname">Cordelia, Physician</span>
and <span class="charname">Soldiers</span>.</p>
and <span class="charname">Soldiers</span>.</p>


<p>CORDELIA.<br/>
<p>CORDELIA.<br/>
Alack, 'tis he: why, he was met even now<br/>
Alack, 'tis he: why, he was met even now<br/>
As mad as the vex'd sea; singing aloud;<br/>
As mad as the vex'd sea; singing aloud;<br/>
Crown'd with rank fumiter and furrow weeds,<br/>
Crown'd with rank fumiter and furrow weeds,<br/>
With harlocks, hemlock, nettles, cuckoo-flowers,<br/>
With harlocks, hemlock, nettles, cuckoo-flowers,<br/>
Darnel, and all the idle weeds that grow<br/>
Darnel, and all the idle weeds that grow<br/>
In our sustaining corn. A century send forth;<br/>
In our sustaining corn. A century send forth;<br/>
Search every acre in the high-grown field,<br/>
Search every acre in the high-grown field,<br/>
And bring him to our eye.
And bring him to our eye.
</p>
</p>


Line 5,095: Line 8,258:


<p>What can man's wisdom<br/>
<p>What can man's wisdom<br/>
In the restoring his bereaved sense,<br/>
In the restoring his bereaved sense,<br/>
He that helps him take all my outward worth.
He that helps him take all my outward worth.
</p>
</p>


<p>PHYSICIAN.<br/>
<p>PHYSICIAN.<br/>
There is means, madam:<br/>
There is means, madam:<br/>
Our foster nurse of nature is repose,<br/>
Our foster nurse of nature is repose,<br/>
The which he lacks; that to provoke in him<br/>
The which he lacks; that to provoke in him<br/>
Are many simples operative, whose power<br/>
Are many simples operative, whose power<br/>
Will close the eye of anguish.
Will close the eye of anguish.
</p>
</p>


<p>CORDELIA.<br/>
<p>CORDELIA.<br/>
All bless'd secrets,<br/>
All bless'd secrets,<br/>
All you unpublish'd virtues of the earth,<br/>
All you unpublish'd virtues of the earth,<br/>
Spring with my tears! Be aidant and remediate<br/>
Spring with my tears! Be aidant and remediate<br/>
In the good man's distress! Seek, seek for him;<br/>
In the good man's distress! Seek, seek for him;<br/>
Lest his ungovern'd rage dissolve the life<br/>
Lest his ungovern'd rage dissolve the life<br/>
That wants the means to lead it.
That wants the means to lead it.
</p>
</p>


Line 5,119: Line 8,298:


<p>MESSENGER.<br/>
<p>MESSENGER.<br/>
News, madam;<br/>
News, madam;<br/>
The British powers are marching hitherward.
The British powers are marching hitherward.
</p>
</p>


<p>CORDELIA.<br/>
<p>CORDELIA.<br/>
'Tis known before. Our preparation stands<br/>
'Tis known before. Our preparation stands<br/>
In expectation of them. O dear father,<br/>
In expectation of them. O dear father,<br/>
It is thy business that I go about;<br/>
It is thy business that I go about;<br/>
Therefore great France<br/>
Therefore great France<br/>
My mourning and important tears hath pitied.<br/>
My mourning and important tears hath pitied.<br/>
No blown ambition doth our arms incite,<br/>
No blown ambition doth our arms incite,<br/>
But love, dear love, and our ag'd father's right:<br/>
But love, dear love, and our ag'd father's right:<br/>
Soon may I hear and see him!
Soon may I hear and see him!
</p>
</p>


Line 5,139: Line 8,330:


<p class="scenedesc"> Enter <span class="charname">Regan</span> and <span
<p class="scenedesc"> Enter <span class="charname">Regan</span> and <span
class="charname">Oswald</span>.</p>
class="charname">Oswald</span>.</p>


<p>REGAN.<br/>
<p>REGAN.<br/>
But are my brother's powers set forth?
But are my brother's powers set forth?
</p>
</p>


<p>OSWALD.<br/>
<p>OSWALD.<br/>
Ay, madam.
Ay, madam.
</p>
</p>


<p>REGAN.<br/>
<p>REGAN.<br/>
Himself in person there?
Himself in person there?
</p>
</p>


<p>OSWALD.<br/>
<p>OSWALD.<br/>
Madam, with much ado.<br/>
Madam, with much ado.<br/>
Your sister is the better soldier.
Your sister is the better soldier.
</p>
</p>


<p>REGAN.<br/>
<p>REGAN.<br/>
Lord Edmund spake not with your lord at home?
Lord Edmund spake not with your lord at home?
</p>
</p>


<p>OSWALD.<br/>
<p>OSWALD.<br/>
No, madam.
No, madam.
</p>
</p>


<p>REGAN.<br/>
<p>REGAN.<br/>
What might import my sister's letter to him?
What might import my sister's letter to him?
</p>
</p>


<p>OSWALD.<br/>
<p>OSWALD.<br/>
I know not, lady.
I know not, lady.
</p>
</p>


<p>REGAN.<br/>
<p>REGAN.<br/>
Faith, he is posted hence on serious matter.<br/>
Faith, he is posted hence on serious matter.<br/>
It was great ignorance, Gloucester's eyes being out,<br/>
It was great ignorance, Gloucester's eyes being out,<br/>
To let him live. Where he arrives he moves<br/>
To let him live. Where he arrives he moves<br/>
All hearts against us. Edmund, I think, is gone<br/>
All hearts against us. Edmund, I think, is gone<br/>
In pity of his misery, to dispatch<br/>
In pity of his misery, to dispatch<br/>
His nighted life; moreover to descry<br/>
His nighted life; moreover to descry<br/>
The strength o' th'enemy.
The strength o' th'enemy.
</p>
</p>


<p>OSWALD.<br/>
<p>OSWALD.<br/>
I must needs after him, madam, with my letter.
I must needs after him, madam, with my letter.
</p>
</p>


<p>REGAN.<br/>
<p>REGAN.<br/>
Our troops set forth tomorrow; stay with us;<br/>
Our troops set forth tomorrow; stay with us;<br/>
The ways are dangerous.
The ways are dangerous.
</p>
</p>


<p>OSWALD.<br/>
<p>OSWALD.<br/>
I may not, madam:<br/>
I may not, madam:<br/>
My lady charg'd my duty in this business.
My lady charg'd my duty in this business.
</p>
</p>


<p>REGAN.<br/>
<p>REGAN.<br/>
Why should she write to Edmund? Might not you<br/>
Why should she write to Edmund? Might not you<br/>
Transport her purposes by word? Belike,<br/>
Transport her purposes by word? Belike,<br/>
Somethings, I know not what, I'll love thee much.<br/>
Somethings, I know not what, I'll love thee much.<br/>
Let me unseal the letter.
Let me unseal the letter.
</p>
</p>


<p>OSWALD.<br/>
<p>OSWALD.<br/>
Madam, I had rather&mdash;
 
Madam, I had rather&amp;mdash;
 
</p>
</p>


<p>REGAN.<br/>
<p>REGAN.<br/>
I know your lady does not love her husband;<br/>
I know your lady does not love her husband;<br/>
I am sure of that; and at her late being here<br/>
I am sure of that; and at her late being here<br/>
She gave strange oeillades and most speaking looks<br/>
She gave strange oeillades and most speaking looks<br/>
To noble Edmund. I know you are of her bosom.
To noble Edmund. I know you are of her bosom.
</p>
</p>


<p>OSWALD.<br/>
<p>OSWALD.<br/>
I, madam?
I, madam?
</p>
</p>


<p>REGAN.<br/>
<p>REGAN.<br/>
I speak in understanding; y'are, I know't:<br/>
I speak in understanding; y'are, I know't:<br/>
Therefore I do advise you take this note:<br/>
Therefore I do advise you take this note:<br/>
My lord is dead; Edmund and I have talk'd,<br/>
My lord is dead; Edmund and I have talk'd,<br/>
And more convenient is he for my hand<br/>
And more convenient is he for my hand<br/>
Than for your lady's. You may gather more.<br/>
Than for your lady's. You may gather more.<br/>
If you do find him, pray you give him this;<br/>
If you do find him, pray you give him this;<br/>
And when your mistress hears thus much from you,<br/>
And when your mistress hears thus much from you,<br/>
I pray desire her call her wisdom to her.<br/>
I pray desire her call her wisdom to her.<br/>
So, fare you well.<br/>
So, fare you well.<br/>
If you do chance to hear of that blind traitor,<br/>
If you do chance to hear of that blind traitor,<br/>
Preferment falls on him that cuts him off.
Preferment falls on him that cuts him off.
</p>
</p>


<p>OSWALD.<br/>
<p>OSWALD.<br/>
Would I could meet him, madam! I should show<br/>
Would I could meet him, madam! I should show<br/>
What party I do follow.
What party I do follow.
</p>
</p>


<p>REGAN.<br/>
<p>REGAN.<br/>
Fare thee well.
Fare thee well.
</p>
</p>


Line 5,248: Line 8,504:


<p class="scenedesc"> Enter <span class="charname">Gloucester,</span> and <span
<p class="scenedesc"> Enter <span class="charname">Gloucester,</span> and <span
class="charname">Edgar</span>  dressed like a peasant.</p>
class="charname">Edgar</span>  dressed like a peasant.</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
When shall I come to the top of that same hill?
When shall I come to the top of that same hill?
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
You do climb up it now. Look how we labour.
You do climb up it now. Look how we labour.
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
Methinks the ground is even.
Methinks the ground is even.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
Horrible steep.<br/>
Horrible steep.<br/>
Hark, do you hear the sea?
Hark, do you hear the sea?
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
No, truly.
No, truly.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
Why, then, your other senses grow imperfect<br/>
Why, then, your other senses grow imperfect<br/>
By your eyes' anguish.
By your eyes' anguish.
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
So may it be indeed.<br/>
So may it be indeed.<br/>
Methinks thy voice is alter'd; and thou speak'st<br/>
Methinks thy voice is alter'd; and thou speak'st<br/>
In better phrase and matter than thou didst.
In better phrase and matter than thou didst.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
Y'are much deceiv'd: in nothing am I chang'd<br/>
Y'are much deceiv'd: in nothing am I chang'd<br/>
But in my garments.
But in my garments.
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
Methinks you're better spoken.
Methinks you're better spoken.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
Come on, sir; here's the place. Stand still. How fearful<br/>
Come on, sir; here's the place. Stand still. How fearful<br/>
And dizzy 'tis to cast one's eyes so low!<br/>
And dizzy 'tis to cast one's eyes so low!<br/>
The crows and choughs that wing the midway air<br/>
The crows and choughs that wing the midway air<br/>
Show scarce so gross as beetles. Half way down<br/>
Show scarce so gross as beetles. Half way down<br/>
Hangs one that gathers samphire&mdash;dreadful trade!<br/>
 
Hangs one that gathers samphire&amp;mdash;dreadful trade!<br/>
 
Methinks he seems no bigger than his head.<br/>
Methinks he seems no bigger than his head.<br/>
The fishermen that walk upon the beach<br/>
The fishermen that walk upon the beach<br/>
Appear like mice; and yond tall anchoring bark,<br/>
Appear like mice; and yond tall anchoring bark,<br/>
Diminish'd to her cock; her cock a buoy<br/>
Diminish'd to her cock; her cock a buoy<br/>
Almost too small for sight: the murmuring surge<br/>
Almost too small for sight: the murmuring surge<br/>
That on th'unnumber'd idle pebble chafes<br/>
That on th'unnumber'd idle pebble chafes<br/>
Cannot be heard so high. I'll look no more;<br/>
Cannot be heard so high. I'll look no more;<br/>
Lest my brain turn, and the deficient sight<br/>
Lest my brain turn, and the deficient sight<br/>
Topple down headlong.
Topple down headlong.
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
Set me where you stand.
Set me where you stand.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
Give me your hand.<br/>
Give me your hand.<br/>
You are now within a foot of th'extreme verge.<br/>
You are now within a foot of th'extreme verge.<br/>
For all beneath the moon would I not leap upright.
For all beneath the moon would I not leap upright.
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
Let go my hand.<br/>
Let go my hand.<br/>
Here, friend, 's another purse; in it a jewel<br/>
Here, friend, 's another purse; in it a jewel<br/>
Well worth a poor man's taking. Fairies and gods<br/>
Well worth a poor man's taking. Fairies and gods<br/>
Prosper it with thee! Go thou further off;<br/>
Prosper it with thee! Go thou further off;<br/>
Bid me farewell, and let me hear thee going.
Bid me farewell, and let me hear thee going.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
Now fare ye well, good sir.
Now fare ye well, good sir.
</p>
</p>


Line 5,333: Line 8,642:


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
With all my heart.
With all my heart.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
[<i>Aside.</i>] Why I do trifle thus with his despair<br/>
[<i>Aside.</i>] Why I do trifle thus with his despair<br/>
Is done to cure it.
Is done to cure it.
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
O you mighty gods!<br/>
O you mighty gods!<br/>
This world I do renounce, and in your sights,<br/>
This world I do renounce, and in your sights,<br/>
Shake patiently my great affliction off:<br/>
Shake patiently my great affliction off:<br/>
If I could bear it longer, and not fall<br/>
If I could bear it longer, and not fall<br/>
To quarrel with your great opposeless wills,<br/>
To quarrel with your great opposeless wills,<br/>
My snuff and loathed part of nature should<br/>
My snuff and loathed part of nature should<br/>
Burn itself out. If Edgar live, O, bless him!<br/>
Burn itself out. If Edgar live, O, bless him!<br/>
Now, fellow, fare thee well.
Now, fellow, fare thee well.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
Gone, sir, farewell.
Gone, sir, farewell.
</p>
</p>


<p class="right"> [<i><span class="charname">Gloucester</span> leaps, and falls
<p class="right"> [<i><span class="charname">Gloucester</span> leaps, and falls
along</i>]</p>
along</i>]</p>


<p>And yet I know not how conceit may rob<br/>
<p>And yet I know not how conceit may rob<br/>
The treasury of life when life itself<br/>
The treasury of life when life itself<br/>
Yields to the theft. Had he been where he thought,<br/>
Yields to the theft. Had he been where he thought,<br/>
By this had thought been past. Alive or dead?<br/>
By this had thought been past. Alive or dead?<br/>
Ho you, sir! friend! Hear you, sir? speak!<br/>
Ho you, sir! friend! Hear you, sir? speak!<br/>
Thus might he pass indeed: yet he revives.<br/>
Thus might he pass indeed: yet he revives.<br/>
What are you, sir?
What are you, sir?
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
Away, and let me die.
Away, and let me die.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
Hadst thou been aught but gossamer, feathers, air,<br/>
Hadst thou been aught but gossamer, feathers, air,<br/>
So many fathom down precipitating,<br/>
So many fathom down precipitating,<br/>
Thou'dst shiver'd like an egg: but thou dost breathe;<br/>
Thou'dst shiver'd like an egg: but thou dost breathe;<br/>
Hast heavy substance; bleed'st not; speak'st; art sound.<br/>
Hast heavy substance; bleed'st not; speak'st; art sound.<br/>
Ten masts at each make not the altitude<br/>
Ten masts at each make not the altitude<br/>
Which thou hast perpendicularly fell.<br/>
Which thou hast perpendicularly fell.<br/>
Thy life is a miracle. Speak yet again.
Thy life is a miracle. Speak yet again.
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
But have I fall'n, or no?
But have I fall'n, or no?
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
From the dread summit of this chalky bourn.<br/>
From the dread summit of this chalky bourn.<br/>
Look up a-height, the shrill-gorg'd lark so far<br/>
Look up a-height, the shrill-gorg'd lark so far<br/>
Cannot be seen or heard. Do but look up.
Cannot be seen or heard. Do but look up.
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
Alack, I have no eyes.<br/>
Alack, I have no eyes.<br/>
Is wretchedness depriv'd that benefit<br/>
Is wretchedness depriv'd that benefit<br/>
To end itself by death? 'Twas yet some comfort<br/>
To end itself by death? 'Twas yet some comfort<br/>
When misery could beguile the tyrant's rage<br/>
When misery could beguile the tyrant's rage<br/>
And frustrate his proud will.
And frustrate his proud will.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
Give me your arm.<br/>
Give me your arm.<br/>
Up, so. How is't? Feel you your legs? You stand.
Up, so. How is't? Feel you your legs? You stand.
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
Too well, too well.
Too well, too well.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
This is above all strangeness.<br/>
This is above all strangeness.<br/>
Upon the crown o' the cliff what thing was that<br/>
Upon the crown o' the cliff what thing was that<br/>
Which parted from you?
Which parted from you?
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
A poor unfortunate beggar.
A poor unfortunate beggar.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
As I stood here below, methought his eyes<br/>
As I stood here below, methought his eyes<br/>
Were two full moons; he had a thousand noses,<br/>
Were two full moons; he had a thousand noses,<br/>
Horns whelk'd and waved like the enraged sea.<br/>
Horns whelk'd and waved like the enraged sea.<br/>
It was some fiend. Therefore, thou happy father,<br/>
It was some fiend. Therefore, thou happy father,<br/>
Think that the clearest gods, who make them honours<br/>
Think that the clearest gods, who make them honours<br/>
Of men's impossibilities, have preserv'd thee.
Of men's impossibilities, have preserv'd thee.
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
I do remember now: henceforth I'll bear<br/>
I do remember now: henceforth I'll bear<br/>
Affliction till it do cry out itself<br/>
Affliction till it do cry out itself<br/>
'Enough, enough,' and die. That thing you speak of,<br/>
'Enough, enough,' and die. That thing you speak of,<br/>
I took it for a man; often 'twould say,<br/>
I took it for a man; often 'twould say,<br/>
'The fiend, the fiend'; he led me to that place.
'The fiend, the fiend'; he led me to that place.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
Bear free and patient thoughts. But who comes here?
Bear free and patient thoughts. But who comes here?
</p>
</p>


<p class="scenedesc"> Enter <span class="charname">Lear</span>, fantastically
<p class="scenedesc"> Enter <span class="charname">Lear</span>, fantastically
dressed up with flowers.</p>
dressed up with flowers.</p>


<p>The safer sense will ne'er accommodate<br/>
<p>The safer sense will ne'er accommodate<br/>
His master thus.
His master thus.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
No, they cannot touch me for coining. I am the King himself.
No, they cannot touch me for coining. I am the King himself.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
O thou side-piercing sight!
O thou side-piercing sight!
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Nature's above art in that respect. There's your press money.
Nature's above art in that respect. There's your press money.
That fellow handles his bow like a crow-keeper: draw me a clothier's
That fellow handles his bow like a crow-keeper: draw me a clothier's
yard. Look, look, a mouse! Peace, peace, this piece of toasted cheese will
yard. Look, look, a mouse! Peace, peace, this piece of toasted cheese will
do't. There's my gauntlet; I'll prove it on a giant.
do't. There's my gauntlet; I'll prove it on a giant.
Bring up the brown bills. O, well flown, bird! i' the clout, i'
Bring up the brown bills. O, well flown, bird! i' the clout, i'
the clout. Hewgh! Give the word.
the clout. Hewgh! Give the word.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
Sweet marjoram.
Sweet marjoram.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Pass.
Pass.
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
I know that voice.
I know that voice.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Ha! Goneril with a white beard! They flattered me like a dog; and told
Ha! Goneril with a white beard! They flattered me like a dog; and told
me I had white hairs in my beard ere the black ones were there. To say
me I had white hairs in my beard ere the black ones were there. To say
'ay' and 'no' to everything I said 'ay'
'ay' and 'no' to everything I said 'ay'
and 'no' to was no good divinity. When the rain came to wet
and 'no' to was no good divinity. When the rain came to wet
me once, and the wind to make me chatter; when the thunder would not
me once, and the wind to make me chatter; when the thunder would not
peace at my bidding; there I found 'em, there I smelt 'em out.
peace at my bidding; there I found 'em, there I smelt 'em out.
Go to, they are not men o' their words: they told me I was everything;
Go to, they are not men o' their words: they told me I was everything;
'tis a lie, I am not ague-proof.
'tis a lie, I am not ague-proof.
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
The trick of that voice I do well remember:<br/>
The trick of that voice I do well remember:<br/>
Is't not the King?
Is't not the King?
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Ay, every inch a king.<br/>
Ay, every inch a king.<br/>
When I do stare, see how the subject quakes.<br/>
When I do stare, see how the subject quakes.<br/>
I pardon that man's life. What was thy cause?<br/>
I pardon that man's life. What was thy cause?<br/>
Adultery? Thou shalt not die: die for adultery! No:<br/>
Adultery? Thou shalt not die: die for adultery! No:<br/>
The wren goes to't, and the small gilded fly<br/>
The wren goes to't, and the small gilded fly<br/>
Does lecher in my sight. Let copulation thrive;<br/>
Does lecher in my sight. Let copulation thrive;<br/>
For Gloucester's bastard son was kinder to his father<br/>
For Gloucester's bastard son was kinder to his father<br/>
Than my daughters got 'tween the lawful sheets.<br/>
Than my daughters got 'tween the lawful sheets.<br/>
To't, luxury, pell-mell! for I lack soldiers.<br/>
To't, luxury, pell-mell! for I lack soldiers.<br/>
Behold yond simp'ring dame,<br/>
Behold yond simp'ring dame,<br/>
Whose face between her forks presages snow;<br/>
Whose face between her forks presages snow;<br/>
That minces virtue, and does shake the head<br/>
That minces virtue, and does shake the head<br/>
To hear of pleasure's name.<br/>
To hear of pleasure's name.<br/>
The fitchew nor the soiled horse goes to't with a more riotous appetite.
The fitchew nor the soiled horse goes to't with a more riotous appetite.
Down from the waist they are centaurs, though women all above. But to the girdle
Down from the waist they are centaurs, though women all above. But to the girdle
do the gods inherit, beneath is all the fiend's; there's hell,
do the gods inherit, beneath is all the fiend's; there's hell,
there's darkness, there is the sulphurous pit; burning, scalding, stench,
there's darkness, there is the sulphurous pit; burning, scalding, stench,
consumption. Fie, fie, fie! pah, pah! Give me an ounce of civet, good
consumption. Fie, fie, fie! pah, pah! Give me an ounce of civet, good
apothecary, to sweeten my imagination. There's money for thee.
apothecary, to sweeten my imagination. There's money for thee.
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
O, let me kiss that hand!
O, let me kiss that hand!
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Let me wipe it first; it smells of mortality.
Let me wipe it first; it smells of mortality.
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
O ruin'd piece of nature, this great world<br/>
O ruin'd piece of nature, this great world<br/>
Shall so wear out to naught. Dost thou know me?
Shall so wear out to naught. Dost thou know me?
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
I remember thine eyes well enough. Dost thou squiny at me?<br/>
I remember thine eyes well enough. Dost thou squiny at me?<br/>
No, do thy worst, blind Cupid; I'll not love.<br/>
No, do thy worst, blind Cupid; I'll not love.<br/>
Read thou this challenge; mark but the penning of it.
Read thou this challenge; mark but the penning of it.
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
Were all the letters suns, I could not see one.
Were all the letters suns, I could not see one.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
I would not take this from report,<br/>
I would not take this from report,<br/>
It is, and my heart breaks at it.
It is, and my heart breaks at it.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Read.
Read.
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
What, with the case of eyes?
What, with the case of eyes?
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
O, ho, are you there with me? No eyes in your head, nor no money
O, ho, are you there with me? No eyes in your head, nor no money
in your purse? Your eyes are in a heavy case, your purse in a
in your purse? Your eyes are in a heavy case, your purse in a
light, yet you see how this world goes.</p>
light, yet you see how this world goes.</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
I see it feelingly.
I see it feelingly.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
What, art mad? A man may see how the world goes with no eyes.
What, art mad? A man may see how the world goes with no eyes.
Look with thine ears. See how yon justice rails upon yon simple
Look with thine ears. See how yon justice rails upon yon simple
thief. Hark, in thine ear: change places; and, handy-dandy, which
thief. Hark, in thine ear: change places; and, handy-dandy, which
is the justice, which is the thief? Thou hast seen a farmer's
is the justice, which is the thief? Thou hast seen a farmer's
dog bark at a beggar?</p>
dog bark at a beggar?</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
Ay, sir.
Ay, sir.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
And the creature run from the cur? There thou mightst behold
And the creature run from the cur? There thou mightst behold
the great image of authority: a dog's obeyed in office.<br/>
the great image of authority: a dog's obeyed in office.<br/>
Thou rascal beadle, hold thy bloody hand!<br/>
Thou rascal beadle, hold thy bloody hand!<br/>
Why dost thou lash that whore? Strip thine own back;<br/>
Why dost thou lash that whore? Strip thine own back;<br/>
Thou hotly lusts to use her in that kind<br/>
Thou hotly lusts to use her in that kind<br/>
For which thou whipp'st her. The usurer hangs the cozener.<br/>
For which thou whipp'st her. The usurer hangs the cozener.<br/>
Through tatter'd clothes great vices do appear;<br/>
Through tatter'd clothes great vices do appear;<br/>
Robes and furr'd gowns hide all. Plate sin with gold,<br/>
Robes and furr'd gowns hide all. Plate sin with gold,<br/>
And the strong lance of justice hurtless breaks;<br/>
And the strong lance of justice hurtless breaks;<br/>
Arm it in rags, a pygmy's straw does pierce it.<br/>
Arm it in rags, a pygmy's straw does pierce it.<br/>
None does offend, none, I say none; I'll able 'em;<br/>
None does offend, none, I say none; I'll able 'em;<br/>
Take that of me, my friend, who have the power<br/>
Take that of me, my friend, who have the power<br/>
To seal the accuser's lips. Get thee glass eyes,<br/>
To seal the accuser's lips. Get thee glass eyes,<br/>
And like a scurvy politician, seem<br/>
And like a scurvy politician, seem<br/>
To see the things thou dost not. Now, now, now, now:<br/>
To see the things thou dost not. Now, now, now, now:<br/>
Pull off my boots: harder, harder, so.
Pull off my boots: harder, harder, so.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
O, matter and impertinency mix'd!<br/>
O, matter and impertinency mix'd!<br/>
Reason in madness!
Reason in madness!
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
If thou wilt weep my fortunes, take my eyes.<br/>
If thou wilt weep my fortunes, take my eyes.<br/>
I know thee well enough, thy name is Gloucester.<br/>
I know thee well enough, thy name is Gloucester.<br/>
Thou must be patient; we came crying hither:<br/>
Thou must be patient; we came crying hither:<br/>
Thou know'st the first time that we smell the air<br/>
Thou know'st the first time that we smell the air<br/>
We wawl and cry. I will preach to thee: mark.
We wawl and cry. I will preach to thee: mark.
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
Alack, alack the day!
Alack, alack the day!
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
When we are born, we cry that we are come<br/>
When we are born, we cry that we are come<br/>
To this great stage of fools. This a good block:<br/>
To this great stage of fools. This a good block:<br/>
It were a delicate stratagem to shoe<br/>
It were a delicate stratagem to shoe<br/>
A troop of horse with felt. I'll put't in proof<br/>
A troop of horse with felt. I'll put't in proof<br/>
And when I have stol'n upon these son-in-laws,<br/>
And when I have stol'n upon these son-in-laws,<br/>
Then kill, kill, kill, kill, kill, kill!
Then kill, kill, kill, kill, kill, kill!
</p>
</p>


<p class="scenedesc"> Enter a <span class="charname">Gentleman</span> with
<p class="scenedesc"> Enter a <span class="charname">Gentleman</span> with
Attendants.</p>
Attendants.</p>


<p>GENTLEMAN.<br/>
<p>GENTLEMAN.<br/>
O, here he is: lay hand upon him. Sir,<br/>
O, here he is: lay hand upon him. Sir,<br/>
Your most dear daughter&mdash;
 
Your most dear daughter&amp;mdash;
 
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
No rescue? What, a prisoner? I am even<br/>
No rescue? What, a prisoner? I am even<br/>
The natural fool of fortune. Use me well;<br/>
The natural fool of fortune. Use me well;<br/>
You shall have ransom. Let me have surgeons;<br/>
You shall have ransom. Let me have surgeons;<br/>
I am cut to the brains.
I am cut to the brains.
</p>
</p>


<p>GENTLEMAN.<br/>
<p>GENTLEMAN.<br/>
You shall have anything.
You shall have anything.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
No seconds? All myself?<br/>
No seconds? All myself?<br/>
Why, this would make a man a man of salt,<br/>
Why, this would make a man a man of salt,<br/>
To use his eyes for garden water-pots,<br/>
To use his eyes for garden water-pots,<br/>
Ay, and for laying autumn's dust.
Ay, and for laying autumn's dust.
</p>
</p>


<p>GENTLEMAN.<br/>
<p>GENTLEMAN.<br/>
Good sir.
Good sir.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
I will die bravely, like a smug bridegroom.<br/>
I will die bravely, like a smug bridegroom.<br/>
What! I will be jovial. Come, come,<br/>
What! I will be jovial. Come, come,<br/>
I am a king, my masters, know you that.
I am a king, my masters, know you that.
</p>
</p>


<p>GENTLEMAN.<br/>
<p>GENTLEMAN.<br/>
You are a royal one, and we obey you.
You are a royal one, and we obey you.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Then there's life in't. Come, and you get it,<br/>
Then there's life in't. Come, and you get it,<br/>
You shall get it by running. Sa, sa, sa, sa!</p>
You shall get it by running. Sa, sa, sa, sa!</p>


Line 5,662: Line 9,188:


<p>GENTLEMAN.<br/>
<p>GENTLEMAN.<br/>
A sight most pitiful in the meanest wretch,<br/>
A sight most pitiful in the meanest wretch,<br/>
Past speaking of in a king! Thou hast one daughter<br/>
Past speaking of in a king! Thou hast one daughter<br/>
Who redeems nature from the general curse<br/>
Who redeems nature from the general curse<br/>
Which twain have brought her to.
Which twain have brought her to.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
Hail, gentle sir.
Hail, gentle sir.
</p>
</p>


<p>GENTLEMAN.<br/>
<p>GENTLEMAN.<br/>
Sir, speed you. What's your will?
Sir, speed you. What's your will?
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
Do you hear aught, sir, of a battle toward?
Do you hear aught, sir, of a battle toward?
</p>
</p>


<p>GENTLEMAN.<br/>
<p>GENTLEMAN.<br/>
Most sure and vulgar.<br/>
Most sure and vulgar.<br/>
Everyone hears that, which can distinguish sound.
Everyone hears that, which can distinguish sound.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
But, by your favour,<br/>
But, by your favour,<br/>
How near's the other army?
How near's the other army?
</p>
</p>


<p>GENTLEMAN.<br/>
<p>GENTLEMAN.<br/>
Near and on speedy foot; the main descry<br/>
Near and on speedy foot; the main descry<br/>
Stands on the hourly thought.
Stands on the hourly thought.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
I thank you sir, that's all.
I thank you sir, that's all.
</p>
</p>


<p>GENTLEMAN.<br/>
<p>GENTLEMAN.<br/>
Though that the queen on special cause is here,<br/>
Though that the queen on special cause is here,<br/>
Her army is mov'd on.
Her army is mov'd on.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
I thank you, sir.
I thank you, sir.
</p>
</p>


Line 5,711: Line 9,264:


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
You ever-gentle gods, take my breath from me;<br/>
You ever-gentle gods, take my breath from me;<br/>
Let not my worser spirit tempt me again<br/>
Let not my worser spirit tempt me again<br/>
To die before you please.
To die before you please.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
Well pray you, father.
Well pray you, father.
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
Now, good sir, what are you?
Now, good sir, what are you?
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
A most poor man, made tame to fortune's blows;<br/>
A most poor man, made tame to fortune's blows;<br/>
Who, by the art of known and feeling sorrows,<br/>
Who, by the art of known and feeling sorrows,<br/>
Am pregnant to good pity. Give me your hand,<br/>
Am pregnant to good pity. Give me your hand,<br/>
I'll lead you to some biding.
I'll lead you to some biding.
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
Hearty thanks:<br/>
Hearty thanks:<br/>
The bounty and the benison of heaven<br/>
The bounty and the benison of heaven<br/>
To boot, and boot.
To boot, and boot.
</p>
</p>


Line 5,740: Line 9,310:


<p>OSWALD.<br/>
<p>OSWALD.<br/>
A proclaim'd prize! Most happy!<br/>
A proclaim'd prize! Most happy!<br/>
That eyeless head of thine was first fram'd flesh<br/>
That eyeless head of thine was first fram'd flesh<br/>
To raise my fortunes. Thou old unhappy traitor,<br/>
To raise my fortunes. Thou old unhappy traitor,<br/>
Briefly thyself remember. The sword is out<br/>
Briefly thyself remember. The sword is out<br/>
That must destroy thee.
That must destroy thee.
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
Now let thy friendly hand<br/>
Now let thy friendly hand<br/>
Put strength enough to't.
Put strength enough to't.
</p>
</p>


Line 5,755: Line 9,334:


<p>OSWALD.<br/>
<p>OSWALD.<br/>
Wherefore, bold peasant,<br/>
Wherefore, bold peasant,<br/>
Dar'st thou support a publish'd traitor? Hence;<br/>
Dar'st thou support a publish'd traitor? Hence;<br/>
Lest that th'infection of his fortune take<br/>
Lest that th'infection of his fortune take<br/>
Like hold on thee. Let go his arm.
Like hold on thee. Let go his arm.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
Chill not let go, zir, without vurther 'casion.
Chill not let go, zir, without vurther 'casion.
</p>
</p>


<p>OSWALD.<br/>
<p>OSWALD.<br/>
Let go, slave, or thou diest!
Let go, slave, or thou diest!
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
Good gentleman, go your gait, and let poor volke pass. An chud ha'
Good gentleman, go your gait, and let poor volke pass. An chud ha'
bin zwaggered out of my life, 'twould not ha' bin zo long
bin zwaggered out of my life, 'twould not ha' bin zo long
as 'tis by a vortnight. Nay, come not near th'old man; keep
as 'tis by a vortnight. Nay, come not near th'old man; keep
out, che vor ye, or ise try whether your costard or my ballow be the
out, che vor ye, or ise try whether your costard or my ballow be the
harder: chill be plain with you.</p>
harder: chill be plain with you.</p>


<p>OSWALD.<br/>
<p>OSWALD.<br/>
Out, dunghill!
Out, dunghill!
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
Chill pick your teeth, zir. Come! No matter vor your foins.
Chill pick your teeth, zir. Come! No matter vor your foins.
</p>
</p>


<p class="right"> [<i>They fight, and <span class="charname">Edgar</span>
<p class="right"> [<i>They fight, and <span class="charname">Edgar</span>
knocks him down.</i>]</p>
knocks him down.</i>]</p>


<p>OSWALD.<br/>
<p>OSWALD.<br/>
Slave, thou hast slain me. Villain, take my purse.<br/>
Slave, thou hast slain me. Villain, take my purse.<br/>
If ever thou wilt thrive, bury my body;<br/>
If ever thou wilt thrive, bury my body;<br/>
And give the letters which thou find'st about me<br/>
And give the letters which thou find'st about me<br/>
To Edmund, Earl of Gloucester. Seek him out<br/>
To Edmund, Earl of Gloucester. Seek him out<br/>
Upon the British party. O, untimely death!
Upon the British party. O, untimely death!
</p>
</p>


Line 5,798: Line 9,402:


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
I know thee well. A serviceable villain,<br/>
I know thee well. A serviceable villain,<br/>
As duteous to the vices of thy mistress<br/>
As duteous to the vices of thy mistress<br/>
As badness would desire.
As badness would desire.
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
What, is he dead?
What, is he dead?
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
Sit you down, father; rest you.<br/>
Sit you down, father; rest you.<br/>
Let's see these pockets; the letters that he speaks of<br/>
Let's see these pockets; the letters that he speaks of<br/>
May be my friends. He's dead; I am only sorry<br/>
May be my friends. He's dead; I am only sorry<br/>
He had no other deathsman. Let us see:<br/>
He had no other deathsman. Let us see:<br/>
Leave, gentle wax; and, manners, blame us not.<br/>
Leave, gentle wax; and, manners, blame us not.<br/>
To know our enemies' minds, we rip their hearts,<br/>
To know our enemies' minds, we rip their hearts,<br/>
Their papers is more lawful.<br/>
Their papers is more lawful.<br/>
[<i>Reads.</i>] 'Let our reciprocal vows be remembered. You have many
[<i>Reads.</i>] 'Let our reciprocal vows be remembered. You have many
opportunities to cut him off: if your will want not, time and place will be
opportunities to cut him off: if your will want not, time and place will be
fruitfully offered. There is nothing done if he return the conqueror: then am I
fruitfully offered. There is nothing done if he return the conqueror: then am I
the prisoner, and his bed my gaol; from the loathed warmth whereof deliver me,
the prisoner, and his bed my gaol; from the loathed warmth whereof deliver me,
and supply the place for your labour. 'Your (wife, so I would say)
and supply the place for your labour. 'Your (wife, so I would say)
affectionate servant, 'Goneril.'<br/>
affectionate servant, 'Goneril.'<br/>
O indistinguish'd space of woman's will!<br/>
O indistinguish'd space of woman's will!<br/>
A plot upon her virtuous husband's life,<br/>
A plot upon her virtuous husband's life,<br/>
And the exchange my brother! Here in the sands<br/>
And the exchange my brother! Here in the sands<br/>
Thee I'll rake up, the post unsanctified<br/>
Thee I'll rake up, the post unsanctified<br/>
Of murderous lechers: and in the mature time,<br/>
Of murderous lechers: and in the mature time,<br/>
With this ungracious paper strike the sight<br/>
With this ungracious paper strike the sight<br/>
Of the death-practis'd Duke: for him 'tis well<br/>
Of the death-practis'd Duke: for him 'tis well<br/>
That of thy death and business I can tell.
That of thy death and business I can tell.
</p>
</p>


<p class="right"> [<i>Exit <span class="charname">Edgar</span>, dragging out the
<p class="right"> [<i>Exit <span class="charname">Edgar</span>, dragging out the
body.</i>]</p>
body.</i>]</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
The King is mad: how stiff is my vile sense,<br/>
The King is mad: how stiff is my vile sense,<br/>
That I stand up, and have ingenious feeling<br/>
That I stand up, and have ingenious feeling<br/>
Of my huge sorrows! Better I were distract:<br/>
Of my huge sorrows! Better I were distract:<br/>
So should my thoughts be sever'd from my griefs,<br/>
So should my thoughts be sever'd from my griefs,<br/>
And woes by wrong imaginations lose<br/>
And woes by wrong imaginations lose<br/>
The knowledge of themselves.
The knowledge of themselves.
</p>
</p>


Line 5,846: Line 9,486:


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
Give me your hand.<br/>
Give me your hand.<br/>
Far off methinks I hear the beaten drum.<br/>
Far off methinks I hear the beaten drum.<br/>
Come, father, I'll bestow you with a friend.
Come, father, I'll bestow you with a friend.
</p>
</p>


Line 5,856: Line 9,500:


<p class="scenedesc"><span class="charname">Lear</span> on a bed, asleep, soft
<p class="scenedesc"><span class="charname">Lear</span> on a bed, asleep, soft
music playing; <span class="charname">Physician, Gentleman</span> and others
music playing; <span class="charname">Physician, Gentleman</span> and others
attending.</p>
attending.</p>


<p class="scenedesc"> Enter <span class="charname">Cordelia</span> and <span
<p class="scenedesc"> Enter <span class="charname">Cordelia</span> and <span
class="charname">Kent</span>.</p>
class="charname">Kent</span>.</p>


<p>CORDELIA.<br/>
<p>CORDELIA.<br/>
O thou good Kent, how shall I live and work<br/>
O thou good Kent, how shall I live and work<br/>
To match thy goodness? My life will be too short,<br/>
To match thy goodness? My life will be too short,<br/>
And every measure fail me.
And every measure fail me.
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
To be acknowledg'd, madam, is o'erpaid.<br/>
To be acknowledg'd, madam, is o'erpaid.<br/>
All my reports go with the modest truth;<br/>
All my reports go with the modest truth;<br/>
Nor more, nor clipp'd, but so.
Nor more, nor clipp'd, but so.
</p>
</p>


<p>CORDELIA.<br/>
<p>CORDELIA.<br/>
Be better suited,<br/>
Be better suited,<br/>
These weeds are memories of those worser hours:<br/>
These weeds are memories of those worser hours:<br/>
I prythee put them off.
I prythee put them off.
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
Pardon, dear madam;<br/>
Pardon, dear madam;<br/>
Yet to be known shortens my made intent.<br/>
Yet to be known shortens my made intent.<br/>
My boon I make it that you know me not<br/>
My boon I make it that you know me not<br/>
Till time and I think meet.
Till time and I think meet.
</p>
</p>


<p>CORDELIA.<br/>
<p>CORDELIA.<br/>
Then be't so, my good lord. [<i>To the Physician.</i>] How, does the
Then be't so, my good lord. [<i>To the Physician.</i>] How, does the
King?</p>
King?</p>


<p>PHYSICIAN.<br/>
<p>PHYSICIAN.<br/>
Madam, sleeps still.
Madam, sleeps still.
</p>
</p>


<p>CORDELIA.<br/>
<p>CORDELIA.<br/>
O you kind gods,<br/>
O you kind gods,<br/>
Cure this great breach in his abused nature!<br/>
Cure this great breach in his abused nature!<br/>
The untun'd and jarring senses, O, wind up<br/>
The untun'd and jarring senses, O, wind up<br/>
Of this child-changed father.
Of this child-changed father.
</p>
</p>


<p>PHYSICIAN.<br/>
<p>PHYSICIAN.<br/>
So please your majesty<br/>
So please your majesty<br/>
That we may wake the King: he hath slept long.
That we may wake the King: he hath slept long.
</p>
</p>


<p>CORDELIA.<br/>
<p>CORDELIA.<br/>
Be govern'd by your knowledge, and proceed<br/>
Be govern'd by your knowledge, and proceed<br/>
I' the sway of your own will. Is he array'd?
I' the sway of your own will. Is he array'd?
</p>
</p>


<p>PHYSICIAN.<br/>
<p>PHYSICIAN.<br/>
Ay, madam. In the heaviness of sleep<br/>
Ay, madam. In the heaviness of sleep<br/>
We put fresh garments on him.<br/>
We put fresh garments on him.<br/>
Be by, good madam, when we do awake him;<br/>
Be by, good madam, when we do awake him;<br/>
I doubt not of his temperance.
I doubt not of his temperance.
</p>
</p>


<p>CORDELIA.<br/>
<p>CORDELIA.<br/>
Very well.
Very well.
</p>
</p>


<p>PHYSICIAN.<br/>
<p>PHYSICIAN.<br/>
Please you draw near. Louder the music there!
Please you draw near. Louder the music there!
</p>
</p>


<p>CORDELIA.<br/>
<p>CORDELIA.<br/>
O my dear father! Restoration hang<br/>
O my dear father! Restoration hang<br/>
Thy medicine on my lips; and let this kiss<br/>
Thy medicine on my lips; and let this kiss<br/>
Repair those violent harms that my two sisters<br/>
Repair those violent harms that my two sisters<br/>
Have in thy reverence made!
Have in thy reverence made!
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
Kind and dear princess!
Kind and dear princess!
</p>
</p>


<p>CORDELIA.<br/>
<p>CORDELIA.<br/>
Had you not been their father, these white flakes<br/>
Had you not been their father, these white flakes<br/>
Did challenge pity of them. Was this a face<br/>
Did challenge pity of them. Was this a face<br/>
To be oppos'd against the warring winds?<br/>
To be oppos'd against the warring winds?<br/>
To stand against the deep dread-bolted thunder?<br/>
To stand against the deep dread-bolted thunder?<br/>
In the most terrible and nimble stroke<br/>
In the most terrible and nimble stroke<br/>
Of quick cross lightning? to watch, poor perdu!<br/>
Of quick cross lightning? to watch, poor perdu!<br/>
With this thin helm? Mine enemy's dog,<br/>
With this thin helm? Mine enemy's dog,<br/>
Though he had bit me, should have stood that night<br/>
Though he had bit me, should have stood that night<br/>
Against my fire; and wast thou fain, poor father,<br/>
Against my fire; and wast thou fain, poor father,<br/>
To hovel thee with swine and rogues forlorn<br/>
To hovel thee with swine and rogues forlorn<br/>
In short and musty straw? Alack, alack!<br/>
In short and musty straw? Alack, alack!<br/>
'Tis wonder that thy life and wits at once<br/>
'Tis wonder that thy life and wits at once<br/>
Had not concluded all. He wakes; speak to him.
Had not concluded all. He wakes; speak to him.
</p>
</p>


<p>PHYSICIAN.<br/>
<p>PHYSICIAN.<br/>
Madam, do you; 'tis fittest.
Madam, do you; 'tis fittest.
</p>
</p>


<p>CORDELIA.<br/>
<p>CORDELIA.<br/>
How does my royal lord? How fares your majesty?
How does my royal lord? How fares your majesty?
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
You do me wrong to take me out o' the grave.<br/>
You do me wrong to take me out o' the grave.<br/>
Thou art a soul in bliss; but I am bound<br/>
Thou art a soul in bliss; but I am bound<br/>
Upon a wheel of fire, that mine own tears<br/>
Upon a wheel of fire, that mine own tears<br/>
Do scald like molten lead.
Do scald like molten lead.
</p>
</p>


<p>CORDELIA.<br/>
<p>CORDELIA.<br/>
Sir, do you know me?
Sir, do you know me?
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
You are a spirit, I know: when did you die?
You are a spirit, I know: when did you die?
</p>
</p>


<p>CORDELIA.<br/>
<p>CORDELIA.<br/>
Still, still, far wide!
Still, still, far wide!
</p>
</p>


<p>PHYSICIAN.<br/>
<p>PHYSICIAN.<br/>
He's scarce awake: let him alone awhile.
He's scarce awake: let him alone awhile.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Where have I been? Where am I? Fair daylight?<br/>
Where have I been? Where am I? Fair daylight?<br/>
I am mightily abus'd. I should e'en die with pity,<br/>
I am mightily abus'd. I should e'en die with pity,<br/>
To see another thus. I know not what to say.<br/>
To see another thus. I know not what to say.<br/>
I will not swear these are my hands: let's see;<br/>
I will not swear these are my hands: let's see;<br/>
I feel this pin prick. Would I were assur'd<br/>
I feel this pin prick. Would I were assur'd<br/>
Of my condition!
Of my condition!
</p>
</p>


<p>CORDELIA.<br/>
<p>CORDELIA.<br/>
O, look upon me, sir,<br/>
O, look upon me, sir,<br/>
And hold your hands in benediction o'er me.<br/>
And hold your hands in benediction o'er me.<br/>
No, sir, you must not kneel.
No, sir, you must not kneel.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Pray, do not mock me:<br/>
Pray, do not mock me:<br/>
I am a very foolish fond old man,<br/>
I am a very foolish fond old man,<br/>
Fourscore and upward, not an hour more nor less;<br/>
Fourscore and upward, not an hour more nor less;<br/>
And to deal plainly,<br/>
And to deal plainly,<br/>
I fear I am not in my perfect mind.<br/>
I fear I am not in my perfect mind.<br/>
Methinks I should know you, and know this man;<br/>
Methinks I should know you, and know this man;<br/>
Yet I am doubtful: for I am mainly ignorant<br/>
Yet I am doubtful: for I am mainly ignorant<br/>
What place this is; and all the skill I have<br/>
What place this is; and all the skill I have<br/>
Remembers not these garments; nor I know not<br/>
Remembers not these garments; nor I know not<br/>
Where I did lodge last night. Do not laugh at me;<br/>
Where I did lodge last night. Do not laugh at me;<br/>
For, as I am a man, I think this lady<br/>
For, as I am a man, I think this lady<br/>
To be my child Cordelia.
To be my child Cordelia.
</p>
</p>


<p>CORDELIA.<br/>
<p>CORDELIA.<br/>
And so I am. I am.
And so I am. I am.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Be your tears wet? Yes, faith. I pray weep not:<br/>
Be your tears wet? Yes, faith. I pray weep not:<br/>
If you have poison for me, I will drink it.<br/>
If you have poison for me, I will drink it.<br/>
I know you do not love me; for your sisters<br/>
I know you do not love me; for your sisters<br/>
Have, as I do remember, done me wrong.<br/>
Have, as I do remember, done me wrong.<br/>
You have some cause, they have not.
You have some cause, they have not.
</p>
</p>


<p>CORDELIA.<br/>
<p>CORDELIA.<br/>
No cause, no cause.
No cause, no cause.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Am I in France?
Am I in France?
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
In your own kingdom, sir.
In your own kingdom, sir.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Do not abuse me.
Do not abuse me.
</p>
</p>


<p>PHYSICIAN.<br/>
<p>PHYSICIAN.<br/>
Be comforted, good madam, the great rage,<br/>
Be comforted, good madam, the great rage,<br/>
You see, is kill'd in him: and yet it is danger<br/>
You see, is kill'd in him: and yet it is danger<br/>
To make him even o'er the time he has lost.<br/>
To make him even o'er the time he has lost.<br/>
Desire him to go in; trouble him no more<br/>
Desire him to go in; trouble him no more<br/>
Till further settling.
Till further settling.
</p>
</p>


<p>CORDELIA.<br/>
<p>CORDELIA.<br/>
Will't please your highness walk?
Will't please your highness walk?
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
You must bear with me:<br/>
You must bear with me:<br/>
Pray you now, forget and forgive: I am old and foolish.
Pray you now, forget and forgive: I am old and foolish.
</p>
</p>


<p class="right"> [<i>Exeunt <span class="charname">Lear, Cordelia,
<p class="right"> [<i>Exeunt <span class="charname">Lear, Cordelia,
Physician</span> and Attendants.</i>]</p>
Physician</span> and Attendants.</i>]</p>


<p>GENTLEMAN.<br/>
<p>GENTLEMAN.<br/>
Holds it true, sir, that the Duke of Cornwall was so slain?
Holds it true, sir, that the Duke of Cornwall was so slain?
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
Most certain, sir.
Most certain, sir.
</p>
</p>


<p>GENTLEMAN.<br/>
<p>GENTLEMAN.<br/>
Who is conductor of his people?
Who is conductor of his people?
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
As 'tis said, the bastard son of Gloucester.
As 'tis said, the bastard son of Gloucester.
</p>
</p>


<p>GENTLEMAN.<br/>
<p>GENTLEMAN.<br/>
They say Edgar, his banished son, is with the Earl of Kent
They say Edgar, his banished son, is with the Earl of Kent
in Germany.</p>
in Germany.</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
Report is changeable. 'Tis time to look about; the powers of
Report is changeable. 'Tis time to look about; the powers of
the kingdom approach apace.</p>
the kingdom approach apace.</p>


<p>GENTLEMAN.<br/>
<p>GENTLEMAN.<br/>
The arbitrement is like to be bloody.<br/>
The arbitrement is like to be bloody.<br/>
Fare you well, sir.
Fare you well, sir.
</p>
</p>


Line 6,095: Line 9,888:


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
My point and period will be throughly wrought,<br/>
My point and period will be throughly wrought,<br/>
Or well or ill, as this day's battle's fought.
Or well or ill, as this day's battle's fought.
</p>
</p>


<p class="right"> [<i>Exit.</i>]</p>
<p class="right"> [<i>Exit.</i>]</p>


<h3 id="sceneV_181"> <b>ACT V</b></h3>
<h3 id="sceneV_181"> <b>ACT V</b></h3>
Line 6,110: Line 9,902:


<p class="scenedesc"> Enter, with drum and colours <span
<p class="scenedesc"> Enter, with drum and colours <span
class="charname">Edmund, Regan, Officers, Soldiers</span> and others.</p>
class="charname">Edmund, Regan, Officers, Soldiers</span> and others.</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
Know of the Duke if his last purpose hold,<br/>
Know of the Duke if his last purpose hold,<br/>
Or whether since he is advis'd by aught<br/>
Or whether since he is advis'd by aught<br/>
To change the course, he's full of alteration<br/>
To change the course, he's full of alteration<br/>
And self-reproving, bring his constant pleasure.
And self-reproving, bring his constant pleasure.
</p>
</p>


Line 6,122: Line 9,920:


<p>REGAN.<br/>
<p>REGAN.<br/>
Our sister's man is certainly miscarried.
Our sister's man is certainly miscarried.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
'Tis to be doubted, madam.
'Tis to be doubted, madam.
</p>
</p>


<p>REGAN.<br/>
<p>REGAN.<br/>
Now, sweet lord,<br/>
Now, sweet lord,<br/>
You know the goodness I intend upon you:<br/>
You know the goodness I intend upon you:<br/>
Tell me but truly, but then speak the truth,<br/>
Tell me but truly, but then speak the truth,<br/>
Do you not love my sister?
Do you not love my sister?
</p>
</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
In honour'd love.
In honour'd love.
</p>
</p>


<p>REGAN.<br/>
<p>REGAN.<br/>
But have you never found my brother's way<br/>
But have you never found my brother's way<br/>
To the forfended place?
To the forfended place?
</p>
</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
That thought abuses you.
That thought abuses you.
</p>
</p>


<p>REGAN.<br/>
<p>REGAN.<br/>
I am doubtful that you have been conjunct<br/>
I am doubtful that you have been conjunct<br/>
And bosom'd with her, as far as we call hers.
And bosom'd with her, as far as we call hers.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
No, by mine honour, madam.
No, by mine honour, madam.
</p>
</p>


<p>REGAN.<br/>
<p>REGAN.<br/>
I never shall endure her, dear my lord,<br/>
I never shall endure her, dear my lord,<br/>
Be not familiar with her.
Be not familiar with her.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
Fear not,<br/>
Fear not,<br/>
She and the Duke her husband!
She and the Duke her husband!
</p>
</p>


<p class="scenedesc"> Enter with drum and colours <span
<p class="scenedesc"> Enter with drum and colours <span
class="charname">Albany, Goneril</span> and <span
class="charname">Albany, Goneril</span> and <span
class="charname">Soldiers</span>.</p>
class="charname">Soldiers</span>.</p>


<p>GONERIL.<br/>
<p>GONERIL.<br/>
[<i>Aside.</i>] I had rather lose the battle than that sister<br/>
[<i>Aside.</i>] I had rather lose the battle than that sister<br/>
Should loosen him and me.
Should loosen him and me.
</p>
</p>


<p>ALBANY.<br/>
<p>ALBANY.<br/>
Our very loving sister, well be-met.<br/>
Our very loving sister, well be-met.<br/>
Sir, this I heard: the King is come to his daughter,<br/>
Sir, this I heard: the King is come to his daughter,<br/>
With others whom the rigour of our state<br/>
With others whom the rigour of our state<br/>
Forc'd to cry out. Where I could not be honest,<br/>
Forc'd to cry out. Where I could not be honest,<br/>
I never yet was valiant. For this business,<br/>
I never yet was valiant. For this business,<br/>
It toucheth us as France invades our land,<br/>
It toucheth us as France invades our land,<br/>
Not bolds the King, with others whom I fear<br/>
Not bolds the King, with others whom I fear<br/>
Most just and heavy causes make oppose.
Most just and heavy causes make oppose.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
Sir, you speak nobly.
Sir, you speak nobly.
</p>
</p>


<p>REGAN.<br/>
<p>REGAN.<br/>
Why is this reason'd?
Why is this reason'd?
</p>
</p>


<p>GONERIL.<br/>
<p>GONERIL.<br/>
Combine together 'gainst the enemy;<br/>
Combine together 'gainst the enemy;<br/>
For these domestic and particular broils<br/>
For these domestic and particular broils<br/>
Are not the question here.
Are not the question here.
</p>
</p>


<p>ALBANY.<br/>
<p>ALBANY.<br/>
Let's, then, determine with the ancient of war<br/>
Let's, then, determine with the ancient of war<br/>
On our proceeding.
On our proceeding.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
I shall attend you presently at your tent.
I shall attend you presently at your tent.
</p>
</p>


<p>REGAN.<br/>
<p>REGAN.<br/>
Sister, you'll go with us?
Sister, you'll go with us?
</p>
</p>


<p>GONERIL.<br/>
<p>GONERIL.<br/>
No.
No.
</p>
</p>


<p>REGAN.<br/>
<p>REGAN.<br/>
'Tis most convenient; pray you, go with us.
'Tis most convenient; pray you, go with us.
</p>
</p>


<p>GONERIL.<br/>
<p>GONERIL.<br/>
[<i>Aside</i>.] O, ho, I know the riddle. I will go.
[<i>Aside</i>.] O, ho, I know the riddle. I will go.
</p>
</p>


<p class="right"> [<i>Exeunt <span class="charname">Edmund, Regan, Goneril,
<p class="right"> [<i>Exeunt <span class="charname">Edmund, Regan, Goneril,
Officers, Soldiers</span> and <span class="charname">Attendants</span>.</i>]</p>
Officers, Soldiers</span> and <span class="charname">Attendants</span>.</i>]</p>


<p class="scenedesc"> As they are going out, enter <span
<p class="scenedesc"> As they are going out, enter <span
class="charname">Edgar</span> disguised.</p>
class="charname">Edgar</span> disguised.</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
If e'er your grace had speech with man so poor,<br/>
If e'er your grace had speech with man so poor,<br/>
Hear me one word.
Hear me one word.
</p>
</p>


<p>ALBANY.<br/>
<p>ALBANY.<br/>
I'll overtake you. Speak.
I'll overtake you. Speak.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
Before you fight the battle, ope this letter.<br/>
Before you fight the battle, ope this letter.<br/>
If you have victory, let the trumpet sound<br/>
If you have victory, let the trumpet sound<br/>
For him that brought it: wretched though I seem,<br/>
For him that brought it: wretched though I seem,<br/>
I can produce a champion that will prove<br/>
I can produce a champion that will prove<br/>
What is avouched there. If you miscarry,<br/>
What is avouched there. If you miscarry,<br/>
Your business of the world hath so an end,<br/>
Your business of the world hath so an end,<br/>
And machination ceases. Fortune love you!
And machination ceases. Fortune love you!
</p>
</p>


<p>ALBANY.<br/>
<p>ALBANY.<br/>
Stay till I have read the letter.
Stay till I have read the letter.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
I was forbid it.<br/>
I was forbid it.<br/>
When time shall serve, let but the herald cry,<br/>
When time shall serve, let but the herald cry,<br/>
And I'll appear again.
And I'll appear again.
</p>
</p>


<p>ALBANY.<br/>
<p>ALBANY.<br/>
Why, fare thee well. I will o'erlook thy paper.
Why, fare thee well. I will o'erlook thy paper.
</p>
</p>


Line 6,271: Line 10,154:


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
The enemy's in view; draw up your powers.<br/>
The enemy's in view; draw up your powers.<br/>
Here is the guess of their true strength and forces<br/>
Here is the guess of their true strength and forces<br/>
By diligent discovery; but your haste<br/>
By diligent discovery; but your haste<br/>
Is now urg'd on you.
Is now urg'd on you.
</p>
</p>


<p>ALBANY.<br/>
<p>ALBANY.<br/>
We will greet the time.
We will greet the time.
</p>
</p>


Line 6,284: Line 10,174:


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
To both these sisters have I sworn my love;<br/>
To both these sisters have I sworn my love;<br/>
Each jealous of the other, as the stung<br/>
Each jealous of the other, as the stung<br/>
Are of the adder. Which of them shall I take?<br/>
Are of the adder. Which of them shall I take?<br/>
Both? One? Or neither? Neither can be enjoy'd,<br/>
Both? One? Or neither? Neither can be enjoy'd,<br/>
If both remain alive. To take the widow<br/>
If both remain alive. To take the widow<br/>
Exasperates, makes mad her sister Goneril;<br/>
Exasperates, makes mad her sister Goneril;<br/>
And hardly shall I carry out my side,<br/>
And hardly shall I carry out my side,<br/>
Her husband being alive. Now, then, we'll use<br/>
Her husband being alive. Now, then, we'll use<br/>
His countenance for the battle; which being done,<br/>
His countenance for the battle; which being done,<br/>
Let her who would be rid of him devise<br/>
Let her who would be rid of him devise<br/>
His speedy taking off. As for the mercy<br/>
His speedy taking off. As for the mercy<br/>
Which he intends to Lear and to Cordelia,<br/>
Which he intends to Lear and to Cordelia,<br/>
The battle done, and they within our power,<br/>
The battle done, and they within our power,<br/>
Shall never see his pardon: for my state<br/>
Shall never see his pardon: for my state<br/>
Stands on me to defend, not to debate.
Stands on me to defend, not to debate.
</p>
</p>


Line 6,306: Line 10,212:


<p class="scenedesc"> Alarum within. Enter with drum and colours, <span
<p class="scenedesc"> Alarum within. Enter with drum and colours, <span
class="charname">Lear, Cordelia</span> and their Forces, and exeunt.</p>
class="charname">Lear, Cordelia</span> and their Forces, and exeunt.</p>


<p class="scenedesc"> Enter <span class="charname">Edgar</span> and <span
<p class="scenedesc"> Enter <span class="charname">Edgar</span> and <span
class="charname">Gloucester</span>.</p>
class="charname">Gloucester</span>.</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
Here, father, take the shadow of this tree<br/>
Here, father, take the shadow of this tree<br/>
For your good host; pray that the right may thrive:<br/>
For your good host; pray that the right may thrive:<br/>
If ever I return to you again,<br/>
If ever I return to you again,<br/>
I'll bring you comfort.
I'll bring you comfort.
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
Grace go with you, sir!
Grace go with you, sir!
</p>
</p>


Line 6,325: Line 10,240:


<p class="scenedesc"> Alarum and retreat within. Enter <span
<p class="scenedesc"> Alarum and retreat within. Enter <span
class="charname">Edgar</span>.</p>
class="charname">Edgar</span>.</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
Away, old man, give me thy hand, away!<br/>
Away, old man, give me thy hand, away!<br/>
King Lear hath lost, he and his daughter ta'en:<br/>
King Lear hath lost, he and his daughter ta'en:<br/>
Give me thy hand; come on!
Give me thy hand; come on!
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
No further, sir; a man may rot even here.
No further, sir; a man may rot even here.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
What, in ill thoughts again? Men must endure<br/>
What, in ill thoughts again? Men must endure<br/>
Their going hence, even as their coming hither;<br/>
Their going hence, even as their coming hither;<br/>
Ripeness is all. Come on.
Ripeness is all. Come on.
</p>
</p>


<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
<p>GLOUCESTER.<br/>
And that's true too.
And that's true too.
</p>
</p>


Line 6,352: Line 10,280:


<p class="scenedesc"> Enter in conquest with drum and colours, <span
<p class="scenedesc"> Enter in conquest with drum and colours, <span
class="charname">Edmund, Lear</span> and <span class="charname">Cordelia</span>
class="charname">Edmund, Lear</span> and <span class="charname">Cordelia</span>
as prisoners; Officers, Soldiers, &amp;c.</p>
 
as prisoners; Officers, Soldiers, &amp;amp;c.</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
Some officers take them away: good guard<br/>
Some officers take them away: good guard<br/>
Until their greater pleasures first be known<br/>
Until their greater pleasures first be known<br/>
That are to censure them.
That are to censure them.
</p>
</p>


<p>CORDELIA.<br/>
<p>CORDELIA.<br/>
We are not the first<br/>
We are not the first<br/>
Who with best meaning have incurr'd the worst.<br/>
Who with best meaning have incurr'd the worst.<br/>
For thee, oppressed King, I am cast down;<br/>
For thee, oppressed King, I am cast down;<br/>
Myself could else out-frown false fortune's frown.<br/>
Myself could else out-frown false fortune's frown.<br/>
Shall we not see these daughters and these sisters?
Shall we not see these daughters and these sisters?
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
No, no, no, no. Come, let's away to prison:<br/>
No, no, no, no. Come, let's away to prison:<br/>
We two alone will sing like birds i' the cage:<br/>
We two alone will sing like birds i' the cage:<br/>
When thou dost ask me blessing I'll kneel down<br/>
When thou dost ask me blessing I'll kneel down<br/>
And ask of thee forgiveness. So we'll live,<br/>
And ask of thee forgiveness. So we'll live,<br/>
And pray, and sing, and tell old tales, and laugh<br/>
And pray, and sing, and tell old tales, and laugh<br/>
At gilded butterflies, and hear poor rogues<br/>
At gilded butterflies, and hear poor rogues<br/>
Talk of court news; and we'll talk with them too,<br/>
Talk of court news; and we'll talk with them too,<br/>
Who loses and who wins; who's in, who's out;<br/>
Who loses and who wins; who's in, who's out;<br/>
And take upon's the mystery of things,<br/>
And take upon's the mystery of things,<br/>
As if we were God's spies. And we'll wear out,<br/>
As if we were God's spies. And we'll wear out,<br/>
In a wall'd prison, packs and sects of great ones<br/>
In a wall'd prison, packs and sects of great ones<br/>
That ebb and flow by the moon.
That ebb and flow by the moon.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
Take them away.
Take them away.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Upon such sacrifices, my Cordelia,<br/>
Upon such sacrifices, my Cordelia,<br/>
The gods themselves throw incense. Have I caught thee?<br/>
The gods themselves throw incense. Have I caught thee?<br/>
He that parts us shall bring a brand from heaven,<br/>
He that parts us shall bring a brand from heaven,<br/>
And fire us hence like foxes. Wipe thine eyes;<br/>
And fire us hence like foxes. Wipe thine eyes;<br/>
The good years shall devour them, flesh and fell,<br/>
The good years shall devour them, flesh and fell,<br/>
Ere they shall make us weep!<br/>
Ere they shall make us weep!<br/>
We'll see 'em starve first: come.
We'll see 'em starve first: come.
</p>
</p>


<p class="right"> [<i>Exeunt <span class="charname">Lear</span> and <span
<p class="right"> [<i>Exeunt <span class="charname">Lear</span> and <span
class="charname">Cordelia</span>, guarded.</i>]</p>
class="charname">Cordelia</span>, guarded.</i>]</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
Come hither, captain, hark.<br/>
Come hither, captain, hark.<br/>
Take thou this note [<i>giving a paper</i>]; go follow them to prison.<br/>
Take thou this note [<i>giving a paper</i>]; go follow them to prison.<br/>
One step I have advanc'd thee; if thou dost<br/>
One step I have advanc'd thee; if thou dost<br/>
As this instructs thee, thou dost make thy way<br/>
As this instructs thee, thou dost make thy way<br/>
To noble fortunes: know thou this, that men<br/>
To noble fortunes: know thou this, that men<br/>
Are as the time is; to be tender-minded<br/>
Are as the time is; to be tender-minded<br/>
Does not become a sword. Thy great employment<br/>
Does not become a sword. Thy great employment<br/>
Will not bear question; either say thou'lt do't,<br/>
Will not bear question; either say thou'lt do't,<br/>
Or thrive by other means.
Or thrive by other means.
</p>
</p>


<p>CAPTAIN.<br/>
<p>CAPTAIN.<br/>
I'll do't, my lord.
I'll do't, my lord.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
About it; and write happy when thou hast done.<br/>
About it; and write happy when thou hast done.<br/>
Mark, I say, instantly; and carry it so<br/>
Mark, I say, instantly; and carry it so<br/>
As I have set it down.
As I have set it down.
</p>
</p>


<p>CAPTAIN.<br/>
<p>CAPTAIN.<br/>
I cannot draw a cart, nor eat dried oats;<br/>
I cannot draw a cart, nor eat dried oats;<br/>
If it be man's work, I'll do't.
If it be man's work, I'll do't.
</p>
</p>


Line 6,431: Line 10,414:


<p class="scenedesc"> Flourish. Enter <span class="charname">Albany, Goneril,
<p class="scenedesc"> Flourish. Enter <span class="charname">Albany, Goneril,
Regan, Officers</span> and <span class="charname">Attendants</span>.</p>
Regan, Officers</span> and <span class="charname">Attendants</span>.</p>


<p>ALBANY.<br/>
<p>ALBANY.<br/>
Sir, you have show'd today your valiant strain,<br/>
Sir, you have show'd today your valiant strain,<br/>
And fortune led you well: you have the captives<br/>
And fortune led you well: you have the captives<br/>
Who were the opposites of this day's strife:<br/>
Who were the opposites of this day's strife:<br/>
I do require them of you, so to use them<br/>
I do require them of you, so to use them<br/>
As we shall find their merits and our safety<br/>
As we shall find their merits and our safety<br/>
May equally determine.
May equally determine.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
Sir, I thought it fit<br/>
Sir, I thought it fit<br/>
To send the old and miserable King<br/>
To send the old and miserable King<br/>
To some retention and appointed guard;<br/>
To some retention and appointed guard;<br/>
Whose age has charms in it, whose title more,<br/>
Whose age has charms in it, whose title more,<br/>
To pluck the common bosom on his side,<br/>
To pluck the common bosom on his side,<br/>
And turn our impress'd lances in our eyes<br/>
And turn our impress'd lances in our eyes<br/>
Which do command them. With him I sent the queen;<br/>
Which do command them. With him I sent the queen;<br/>
My reason all the same; and they are ready<br/>
My reason all the same; and they are ready<br/>
Tomorrow, or at further space, to appear<br/>
Tomorrow, or at further space, to appear<br/>
Where you shall hold your session. At this time<br/>
Where you shall hold your session. At this time<br/>
We sweat and bleed: the friend hath lost his friend;<br/>
We sweat and bleed: the friend hath lost his friend;<br/>
And the best quarrels in the heat are curs'd<br/>
And the best quarrels in the heat are curs'd<br/>
By those that feel their sharpness.<br/>
By those that feel their sharpness.<br/>
The question of Cordelia and her father<br/>
The question of Cordelia and her father<br/>
Requires a fitter place.
Requires a fitter place.
</p>
</p>


<p>ALBANY.<br/>
<p>ALBANY.<br/>
Sir, by your patience,<br/>
Sir, by your patience,<br/>
I hold you but a subject of this war,<br/>
I hold you but a subject of this war,<br/>
Not as a brother.
Not as a brother.
</p>
</p>


<p>REGAN.<br/>
<p>REGAN.<br/>
That's as we list to grace him.<br/>
That's as we list to grace him.<br/>
Methinks our pleasure might have been demanded<br/>
Methinks our pleasure might have been demanded<br/>
Ere you had spoke so far. He led our powers;<br/>
Ere you had spoke so far. He led our powers;<br/>
Bore the commission of my place and person;<br/>
Bore the commission of my place and person;<br/>
The which immediacy may well stand up<br/>
The which immediacy may well stand up<br/>
And call itself your brother.
And call itself your brother.
</p>
</p>


<p>GONERIL.<br/>
<p>GONERIL.<br/>
Not so hot:<br/>
Not so hot:<br/>
In his own grace he doth exalt himself,<br/>
In his own grace he doth exalt himself,<br/>
More than in your addition.
More than in your addition.
</p>
</p>


<p>REGAN.<br/>
<p>REGAN.<br/>
In my rights,<br/>
In my rights,<br/>
By me invested, he compeers the best.
By me invested, he compeers the best.
</p>
</p>


<p>ALBANY.<br/>
<p>ALBANY.<br/>
That were the most, if he should husband you.
That were the most, if he should husband you.
</p>
</p>


<p>REGAN.<br/>
<p>REGAN.<br/>
Jesters do oft prove prophets.
Jesters do oft prove prophets.
</p>
</p>


<p>GONERIL.<br/>
<p>GONERIL.<br/>
Holla, holla!<br/>
Holla, holla!<br/>
That eye that told you so look'd but asquint.
That eye that told you so look'd but asquint.
</p>
</p>


<p>REGAN.<br/>
<p>REGAN.<br/>
Lady, I am not well; else I should answer<br/>
Lady, I am not well; else I should answer<br/>
From a full-flowing stomach. General,<br/>
From a full-flowing stomach. General,<br/>
Take thou my soldiers, prisoners, patrimony;<br/>
Take thou my soldiers, prisoners, patrimony;<br/>
Dispose of them, of me; the walls are thine:<br/>
Dispose of them, of me; the walls are thine:<br/>
Witness the world that I create thee here<br/>
Witness the world that I create thee here<br/>
My lord and master.
My lord and master.
</p>
</p>


<p>GONERIL.<br/>
<p>GONERIL.<br/>
Mean you to enjoy him?
Mean you to enjoy him?
</p>
</p>


<p>ALBANY.<br/>
<p>ALBANY.<br/>
The let-alone lies not in your good will.
The let-alone lies not in your good will.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
Nor in thine, lord.
Nor in thine, lord.
</p>
</p>


<p>ALBANY.<br/>
<p>ALBANY.<br/>
Half-blooded fellow, yes.
Half-blooded fellow, yes.
</p>
</p>


<p>REGAN.<br/>
<p>REGAN.<br/>
[<i>To Edmund.</i>] Let the drum strike, and prove my title thine.
[<i>To Edmund.</i>] Let the drum strike, and prove my title thine.
</p>
</p>


<p>ALBANY.<br/>
<p>ALBANY.<br/>
Stay yet; hear reason: Edmund, I arrest thee<br/>
Stay yet; hear reason: Edmund, I arrest thee<br/>
On capital treason; and, in thine arrest,<br/>
On capital treason; and, in thine arrest,<br/>
This gilded serpent. [<i>pointing to Goneril.</i>]<br/>
This gilded serpent. [<i>pointing to Goneril.</i>]<br/>
For your claim, fair sister,<br/>
For your claim, fair sister,<br/>
I bar it in the interest of my wife;<br/>
I bar it in the interest of my wife;<br/>
'Tis she is sub-contracted to this lord,<br/>
'Tis she is sub-contracted to this lord,<br/>
And I her husband contradict your bans.<br/>
And I her husband contradict your bans.<br/>
If you will marry, make your loves to me,<br/>
If you will marry, make your loves to me,<br/>
My lady is bespoke.
My lady is bespoke.
</p>
</p>


<p>GONERIL.<br/>
<p>GONERIL.<br/>
An interlude!
An interlude!
</p>
</p>


<p>ALBANY.<br/>
<p>ALBANY.<br/>
Thou art arm'd, Gloucester. Let the trumpet sound:<br/>
Thou art arm'd, Gloucester. Let the trumpet sound:<br/>
If none appear to prove upon thy person<br/>
If none appear to prove upon thy person<br/>
Thy heinous, manifest, and many treasons,<br/>
Thy heinous, manifest, and many treasons,<br/>
There is my pledge. [<i>Throwing down a glove.</i>]<br/>
There is my pledge. [<i>Throwing down a glove.</i>]<br/>
I'll make it on thy heart,<br/>
I'll make it on thy heart,<br/>
Ere I taste bread, thou art in nothing less<br/>
Ere I taste bread, thou art in nothing less<br/>
Than I have here proclaim'd thee.
Than I have here proclaim'd thee.
</p>
</p>


<p>REGAN.<br/>
<p>REGAN.<br/>
Sick, O, sick!
Sick, O, sick!
</p>
</p>


<p>GONERIL.<br/>
<p>GONERIL.<br/>
[<i>Aside.</i>] If not, I'll ne'er trust medicine.
[<i>Aside.</i>] If not, I'll ne'er trust medicine.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
There's my exchange. [<i>Throwing down a glove.</i>]<br/>
There's my exchange. [<i>Throwing down a glove.</i>]<br/>
What in the world he is<br/>
What in the world he is<br/>
That names me traitor, villain-like he lies.<br/>
That names me traitor, villain-like he lies.<br/>
Call by thy trumpet: he that dares approach,<br/>
Call by thy trumpet: he that dares approach,<br/>
On him, on you, who not? I will maintain<br/>
On him, on you, who not? I will maintain<br/>
My truth and honour firmly.
My truth and honour firmly.
</p>
</p>


<p>ALBANY.<br/>
<p>ALBANY.<br/>
A herald, ho!
A herald, ho!
</p>
</p>


Line 6,578: Line 10,660:


<p>Trust to thy single virtue; for thy soldiers,<br/>
<p>Trust to thy single virtue; for thy soldiers,<br/>
All levied in my name, have in my name<br/>
All levied in my name, have in my name<br/>
Took their discharge.
Took their discharge.
</p>
</p>


<p>REGAN.<br/>
<p>REGAN.<br/>
My sickness grows upon me.
My sickness grows upon me.
</p>
</p>


<p>ALBANY.<br/>
<p>ALBANY.<br/>
She is not well. Convey her to my tent.
She is not well. Convey her to my tent.
</p>
</p>


Line 6,593: Line 10,682:


<p>Come hither, herald. Let the trumpet sound<br/>
<p>Come hither, herald. Let the trumpet sound<br/>
And read out this.
And read out this.
</p>
</p>


<p>OFFICER.<br/>
<p>OFFICER.<br/>
Sound, trumpet!
Sound, trumpet!
</p>
</p>


Line 6,603: Line 10,696:


<p>HERALD.<br/>
<p>HERALD.<br/>
[<i>Reads.</i>] 'If any man of quality or degree within the lists of
[<i>Reads.</i>] 'If any man of quality or degree within the lists of
the army will maintain upon Edmund, supposed Earl of Gloucester,
the army will maintain upon Edmund, supposed Earl of Gloucester,
that he is a manifold traitor, let him appear by the third sound
that he is a manifold traitor, let him appear by the third sound
of the trumpet. He is bold in his defence.'</p>
of the trumpet. He is bold in his defence.'</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
Sound!
Sound!
</p>
</p>


Line 6,615: Line 10,714:


<p>HERALD.<br/>
<p>HERALD.<br/>
Again!
Again!
</p>
</p>


Line 6,621: Line 10,722:


<p>HERALD.<br/>
<p>HERALD.<br/>
Again!
Again!
</p>
</p>


<p class="scenedesc"> Third trumpet. Trumpet answers within. Enter <span
<p class="scenedesc"> Third trumpet. Trumpet answers within. Enter <span
class="charname">Edgar</span>, armed, preceded by a trumpet.</p>
class="charname">Edgar</span>, armed, preceded by a trumpet.</p>


<p>ALBANY.<br/>
<p>ALBANY.<br/>
Ask him his purposes, why he appears<br/>
Ask him his purposes, why he appears<br/>
Upon this call o' the trumpet.
Upon this call o' the trumpet.
</p>
</p>


<p>HERALD.<br/>
<p>HERALD.<br/>
What are you?<br/>
What are you?<br/>
Your name, your quality? and why you answer<br/>
Your name, your quality? and why you answer<br/>
This present summons?
This present summons?
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
Know my name is lost;<br/>
Know my name is lost;<br/>
By treason's tooth bare-gnawn and canker-bit.<br/>
By treason's tooth bare-gnawn and canker-bit.<br/>
Yet am I noble as the adversary<br/>
Yet am I noble as the adversary<br/>
I come to cope.
I come to cope.
</p>
</p>


<p>ALBANY.<br/>
<p>ALBANY.<br/>
Which is that adversary?
Which is that adversary?
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
What's he that speaks for Edmund, Earl of Gloucester?
What's he that speaks for Edmund, Earl of Gloucester?
</p>
</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
Himself, what say'st thou to him?
Himself, what say'st thou to him?
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
Draw thy sword,<br/>
Draw thy sword,<br/>
That if my speech offend a noble heart,<br/>
That if my speech offend a noble heart,<br/>
Thy arm may do thee justice: here is mine.<br/>
Thy arm may do thee justice: here is mine.<br/>
Behold, it is the privilege of mine honours,<br/>
Behold, it is the privilege of mine honours,<br/>
My oath, and my profession: I protest,<br/>
My oath, and my profession: I protest,<br/>
Maugre thy strength, youth, place, and eminence,<br/>
Maugre thy strength, youth, place, and eminence,<br/>
Despite thy victor sword and fire-new fortune,<br/>
Despite thy victor sword and fire-new fortune,<br/>
Thy valour and thy heart, thou art a traitor;<br/>
Thy valour and thy heart, thou art a traitor;<br/>
False to thy gods, thy brother, and thy father;<br/>
False to thy gods, thy brother, and thy father;<br/>
Conspirant 'gainst this high illustrious prince;<br/>
Conspirant 'gainst this high illustrious prince;<br/>
And, from the extremest upward of thy head<br/>
And, from the extremest upward of thy head<br/>
To the descent and dust beneath thy foot,<br/>
To the descent and dust beneath thy foot,<br/>
A most toad-spotted traitor. Say thou 'No,'<br/>
A most toad-spotted traitor. Say thou 'No,'<br/>
This sword, this arm, and my best spirits are bent<br/>
This sword, this arm, and my best spirits are bent<br/>
To prove upon thy heart, whereto I speak,<br/>
To prove upon thy heart, whereto I speak,<br/>
Thou liest.
Thou liest.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
In wisdom I should ask thy name;<br/>
In wisdom I should ask thy name;<br/>
But since thy outside looks so fair and warlike,<br/>
But since thy outside looks so fair and warlike,<br/>
And that thy tongue some say of breeding breathes,<br/>
And that thy tongue some say of breeding breathes,<br/>
What safe and nicely I might well delay<br/>
What safe and nicely I might well delay<br/>
By rule of knighthood, I disdain and spurn.<br/>
By rule of knighthood, I disdain and spurn.<br/>
Back do I toss those treasons to thy head,<br/>
Back do I toss those treasons to thy head,<br/>
With the hell-hated lie o'erwhelm thy heart;<br/>
With the hell-hated lie o'erwhelm thy heart;<br/>
Which for they yet glance by and scarcely bruise,<br/>
Which for they yet glance by and scarcely bruise,<br/>
This sword of mine shall give them instant way,<br/>
This sword of mine shall give them instant way,<br/>
Where they shall rest for ever. Trumpets, speak!
Where they shall rest for ever. Trumpets, speak!
</p>
</p>


<p class="right"> [<i>Alarums. They fight. <span class="charname">Edmund</span>
<p class="right"> [<i>Alarums. They fight. <span class="charname">Edmund</span>
falls.</i>]</p>
falls.</i>]</p>


<p>ALBANY.<br/>
<p>ALBANY.<br/>
Save him, save him!
Save him, save him!
</p>
</p>


<p>GONERIL.<br/>
<p>GONERIL.<br/>
This is mere practice, Gloucester:<br/>
This is mere practice, Gloucester:<br/>
By the law of arms thou wast not bound to answer<br/>
By the law of arms thou wast not bound to answer<br/>
An unknown opposite; thou art not vanquish'd,<br/>
An unknown opposite; thou art not vanquish'd,<br/>
But cozen'd and beguil'd.
But cozen'd and beguil'd.
</p>
</p>


<p>ALBANY.<br/>
<p>ALBANY.<br/>
Shut your mouth, dame,<br/>
Shut your mouth, dame,<br/>
Or with this paper shall I stop it. Hold, sir;<br/>
Or with this paper shall I stop it. Hold, sir;<br/>
Thou worse than any name, read thine own evil.<br/>
Thou worse than any name, read thine own evil.<br/>
No tearing, lady; I perceive you know it.
No tearing, lady; I perceive you know it.
</p>
</p>


<p class="right"> [<i>Gives the letter to <span
<p class="right"> [<i>Gives the letter to <span
class="charname">Edmund</span>.</i>]</p>
class="charname">Edmund</span>.</i>]</p>


<p>GONERIL.<br/>
<p>GONERIL.<br/>
Say if I do, the laws are mine, not thine:<br/>
Say if I do, the laws are mine, not thine:<br/>
Who can arraign me for't?
Who can arraign me for't?
</p>
</p>


Line 6,721: Line 10,888:


<p>ALBANY.<br/>
<p>ALBANY.<br/>
Most monstrous! O!<br/>
Most monstrous! O!<br/>
Know'st thou this paper?
Know'st thou this paper?
</p>
</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
Ask me not what I know.
Ask me not what I know.
</p>
</p>


<p>ALBANY.<br/>
<p>ALBANY.<br/>
[<i>To an Officer, who goes out.</i>] Go after her; she's desperate;
[<i>To an Officer, who goes out.</i>] Go after her; she's desperate;
govern her.
govern her.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
What you have charg'd me with, that have I done;<br/>
What you have charg'd me with, that have I done;<br/>
And more, much more; the time will bring it out.<br/>
And more, much more; the time will bring it out.<br/>
'Tis past, and so am I. But what art thou<br/>
'Tis past, and so am I. But what art thou<br/>
That hast this fortune on me? If thou'rt noble,<br/>
That hast this fortune on me? If thou'rt noble,<br/>
I do forgive thee.
I do forgive thee.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
Let's exchange charity.<br/>
Let's exchange charity.<br/>
I am no less in blood than thou art, Edmund;<br/>
I am no less in blood than thou art, Edmund;<br/>
If more, the more thou hast wrong'd me.<br/>
If more, the more thou hast wrong'd me.<br/>
My name is Edgar and thy father's son.<br/>
My name is Edgar and thy father's son.<br/>
The gods are just, and of our pleasant vices<br/>
The gods are just, and of our pleasant vices<br/>
Make instruments to plague us:<br/>
Make instruments to plague us:<br/>
The dark and vicious place where thee he got<br/>
The dark and vicious place where thee he got<br/>
Cost him his eyes.
Cost him his eyes.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
Thou hast spoken right, 'tis true;<br/>
Thou hast spoken right, 'tis true;<br/>
The wheel is come full circle; I am here.
The wheel is come full circle; I am here.
</p>
</p>


<p>ALBANY.<br/>
<p>ALBANY.<br/>
Methought thy very gait did prophesy<br/>
Methought thy very gait did prophesy<br/>
A royal nobleness. I must embrace thee.<br/>
A royal nobleness. I must embrace thee.<br/>
Let sorrow split my heart if ever I<br/>
Let sorrow split my heart if ever I<br/>
Did hate thee or thy father.
Did hate thee or thy father.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
Worthy prince, I know't.
Worthy prince, I know't.
</p>
</p>


<p>ALBANY.<br/>
<p>ALBANY.<br/>
Where have you hid yourself?<br/>
Where have you hid yourself?<br/>
How have you known the miseries of your father?
How have you known the miseries of your father?
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
By nursing them, my lord. List a brief tale;<br/>
By nursing them, my lord. List a brief tale;<br/>
And when 'tis told, O that my heart would burst!<br/>
And when 'tis told, O that my heart would burst!<br/>
The bloody proclamation to escape<br/>
The bloody proclamation to escape<br/>
That follow'd me so near,&mdash;O, our lives' sweetness!<br/>
 
That follow'd me so near,&amp;mdash;O, our lives' sweetness!<br/>
 
That with the pain of death we'd hourly die<br/>
That with the pain of death we'd hourly die<br/>
Rather than die at once!&mdash;taught me to shift<br/>
 
Rather than die at once!&amp;mdash;taught me to shift<br/>
 
Into a madman's rags; t'assume a semblance<br/>
Into a madman's rags; t'assume a semblance<br/>
That very dogs disdain'd; and in this habit<br/>
That very dogs disdain'd; and in this habit<br/>
Met I my father with his bleeding rings,<br/>
Met I my father with his bleeding rings,<br/>
Their precious stones new lost; became his guide,<br/>
Their precious stones new lost; became his guide,<br/>
Led him, begg'd for him, sav'd him from despair;<br/>
Led him, begg'd for him, sav'd him from despair;<br/>
Never,&mdash;O fault!&mdash;reveal'd myself unto him<br/>
 
Never,&amp;mdash;O fault!&amp;mdash;reveal'd myself unto him<br/>
 
Until some half hour past, when I was arm'd;<br/>
Until some half hour past, when I was arm'd;<br/>
Not sure, though hoping of this good success,<br/>
Not sure, though hoping of this good success,<br/>
I ask'd his blessing, and from first to last<br/>
I ask'd his blessing, and from first to last<br/>
Told him my pilgrimage. But his flaw'd heart,<br/>
Told him my pilgrimage. But his flaw'd heart,<br/>
Alack, too weak the conflict to support!<br/>
Alack, too weak the conflict to support!<br/>
'Twixt two extremes of passion, joy and grief,<br/>
'Twixt two extremes of passion, joy and grief,<br/>
Burst smilingly.
Burst smilingly.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
This speech of yours hath mov'd me,<br/>
This speech of yours hath mov'd me,<br/>
And shall perchance do good, but speak you on;<br/>
And shall perchance do good, but speak you on;<br/>
You look as you had something more to say.
You look as you had something more to say.
</p>
</p>


<p>ALBANY.<br/>
<p>ALBANY.<br/>
If there be more, more woeful, hold it in;<br/>
If there be more, more woeful, hold it in;<br/>
For I am almost ready to dissolve,<br/>
For I am almost ready to dissolve,<br/>
Hearing of this.
Hearing of this.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
This would have seem'd a period<br/>
This would have seem'd a period<br/>
To such as love not sorrow; but another,<br/>
To such as love not sorrow; but another,<br/>
To amplify too much, would make much more,<br/>
To amplify too much, would make much more,<br/>
And top extremity.<br/>
And top extremity.<br/>
Whilst I was big in clamour, came there a man<br/>
Whilst I was big in clamour, came there a man<br/>
Who, having seen me in my worst estate,<br/>
Who, having seen me in my worst estate,<br/>
Shunn'd my abhorr'd society; but then finding<br/>
Shunn'd my abhorr'd society; but then finding<br/>
Who 'twas that so endur'd, with his strong arms<br/>
Who 'twas that so endur'd, with his strong arms<br/>
He fastened on my neck, and bellow'd out<br/>
He fastened on my neck, and bellow'd out<br/>
As he'd burst heaven; threw him on my father;<br/>
As he'd burst heaven; threw him on my father;<br/>
Told the most piteous tale of Lear and him<br/>
Told the most piteous tale of Lear and him<br/>
That ever ear receiv'd, which in recounting<br/>
That ever ear receiv'd, which in recounting<br/>
His grief grew puissant, and the strings of life<br/>
His grief grew puissant, and the strings of life<br/>
Began to crack. Twice then the trumpets sounded,<br/>
Began to crack. Twice then the trumpets sounded,<br/>
And there I left him tranc'd.
And there I left him tranc'd.
</p>
</p>


<p>ALBANY.<br/>
<p>ALBANY.<br/>
But who was this?
But who was this?
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
Kent, sir, the banish'd Kent; who in disguise<br/>
Kent, sir, the banish'd Kent; who in disguise<br/>
Follow'd his enemy king and did him service<br/>
Follow'd his enemy king and did him service<br/>
Improper for a slave.
Improper for a slave.
</p>
</p>


<p class="scenedesc"> Enter a <span class="charname">Gentleman</span> hastily,
<p class="scenedesc"> Enter a <span class="charname">Gentleman</span> hastily,
with a bloody knife.</p>
with a bloody knife.</p>


<p>GENTLEMAN.<br/>
<p>GENTLEMAN.<br/>
Help, help! O, help!
Help, help! O, help!
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
What kind of help?
What kind of help?
</p>
</p>


<p>ALBANY.<br/>
<p>ALBANY.<br/>
Speak, man.
Speak, man.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
What means this bloody knife?
What means this bloody knife?
</p>
</p>


<p>GENTLEMAN.<br/>
<p>GENTLEMAN.<br/>
'Tis hot, it smokes;<br/>
'Tis hot, it smokes;<br/>
It came even from the heart of&mdash;O! she's dead!
 
It came even from the heart of&amp;mdash;O! she's dead!
 
</p>
</p>


<p>ALBANY.<br/>
<p>ALBANY.<br/>
Who dead? Speak, man.
Who dead? Speak, man.
</p>
</p>


<p>GENTLEMAN.<br/>
<p>GENTLEMAN.<br/>
Your lady, sir, your lady; and her sister<br/>
Your lady, sir, your lady; and her sister<br/>
By her is poisoned; she hath confesses it.
By her is poisoned; she hath confesses it.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
I was contracted to them both, all three<br/>
I was contracted to them both, all three<br/>
Now marry in an instant.
Now marry in an instant.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
Here comes Kent.
Here comes Kent.
</p>
</p>


Line 6,881: Line 11,156:


<p>ALBANY.<br/>
<p>ALBANY.<br/>
Produce their bodies, be they alive or dead.<br/>
Produce their bodies, be they alive or dead.<br/>
This judgement of the heavens that makes us tremble<br/>
This judgement of the heavens that makes us tremble<br/>
Touches us not with pity. O, is this he?<br/>
Touches us not with pity. O, is this he?<br/>
The time will not allow the compliment<br/>
The time will not allow the compliment<br/>
Which very manners urges.
Which very manners urges.
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
I am come<br/>
I am come<br/>
To bid my King and master aye good night:<br/>
To bid my King and master aye good night:<br/>
Is he not here?
Is he not here?
</p>
</p>


<p>ALBANY.<br/>
<p>ALBANY.<br/>
Great thing of us forgot!<br/>
Great thing of us forgot!<br/>
Speak, Edmund, where's the King? and where's Cordelia?
Speak, Edmund, where's the King? and where's Cordelia?
</p>
</p>


<p class="scenedesc"> The bodies of <span class="charname">Goneril</span> and
<p class="scenedesc"> The bodies of <span class="charname">Goneril</span> and
<span class="charname">Regan</span> are brought in.</p>
<span class="charname">Regan</span> are brought in.</p>


Line 6,905: Line 11,194:


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
Alack, why thus?
Alack, why thus?
</p>
</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
Yet Edmund was belov'd.<br/>
Yet Edmund was belov'd.<br/>
The one the other poisoned for my sake,<br/>
The one the other poisoned for my sake,<br/>
And after slew herself.
And after slew herself.
</p>
</p>


<p>ALBANY.<br/>
<p>ALBANY.<br/>
Even so. Cover their faces.
Even so. Cover their faces.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
I pant for life. Some good I mean to do,<br/>
I pant for life. Some good I mean to do,<br/>
Despite of mine own nature. Quickly send,<br/>
Despite of mine own nature. Quickly send,<br/>
Be brief in it, to the castle; for my writ<br/>
Be brief in it, to the castle; for my writ<br/>
Is on the life of Lear and on Cordelia;<br/>
Is on the life of Lear and on Cordelia;<br/>
Nay, send in time.
Nay, send in time.
</p>
</p>


<p>ALBANY.<br/>
<p>ALBANY.<br/>
Run, run, O, run!
Run, run, O, run!
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
To who, my lord? Who has the office? Send<br/>
To who, my lord? Who has the office? Send<br/>
Thy token of reprieve.
Thy token of reprieve.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
Well thought on: take my sword,<br/>
Well thought on: take my sword,<br/>
Give it the captain.
Give it the captain.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
Haste thee for thy life.
Haste thee for thy life.
</p>
</p>


Line 6,947: Line 11,260:


<p>EDMUND.<br/>
<p>EDMUND.<br/>
He hath commission from thy wife and me<br/>
He hath commission from thy wife and me<br/>
To hang Cordelia in the prison, and<br/>
To hang Cordelia in the prison, and<br/>
To lay the blame upon her own despair,<br/>
To lay the blame upon her own despair,<br/>
That she fordid herself.
That she fordid herself.
</p>
</p>


<p>ALBANY.<br/>
<p>ALBANY.<br/>
The gods defend her! Bear him hence awhile.
The gods defend her! Bear him hence awhile.
</p>
</p>


<p class="right"> [<i><span class="charname">Edmund</span> is borne
<p class="right"> [<i><span class="charname">Edmund</span> is borne
off.</i>]</p>
off.</i>]</p>


<p class="scenedesc"> Enter <span class="charname">Lear</span> with <span
<p class="scenedesc"> Enter <span class="charname">Lear</span> with <span
class="charname">Cordelia</span> dead in his arms; <span class="charname">Edgar,
class="charname">Cordelia</span> dead in his arms; <span class="charname">Edgar,
Officer</span> and others following.</p>
Officer</span> and others following.</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Howl, howl, howl, howl! O, you are men of stone.<br/>
Howl, howl, howl, howl! O, you are men of stone.<br/>
Had I your tongues and eyes, I'ld use them so<br/>
Had I your tongues and eyes, I'ld use them so<br/>
That heaven's vault should crack. She's gone for ever!<br/>
That heaven's vault should crack. She's gone for ever!<br/>
I know when one is dead, and when one lives;<br/>
I know when one is dead, and when one lives;<br/>
She's dead as earth. Lend me a looking glass;<br/>
She's dead as earth. Lend me a looking glass;<br/>
If that her breath will mist or stain the stone,<br/>
If that her breath will mist or stain the stone,<br/>
Why, then she lives.
Why, then she lives.
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
Is this the promis'd end?
Is this the promis'd end?
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
Or image of that horror?
Or image of that horror?
</p>
</p>


<p>ALBANY.<br/>
<p>ALBANY.<br/>
Fall, and cease!
Fall, and cease!
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
This feather stirs; she lives! If it be so,<br/>
This feather stirs; she lives! If it be so,<br/>
It is a chance which does redeem all sorrows<br/>
It is a chance which does redeem all sorrows<br/>
That ever I have felt.
That ever I have felt.
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
O, my good master! [<i>Kneeling.</i>]
O, my good master! [<i>Kneeling.</i>]
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Prythee, away!
Prythee, away!
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
'Tis noble Kent, your friend.
'Tis noble Kent, your friend.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
A plague upon you, murderers, traitors all!<br/>
A plague upon you, murderers, traitors all!<br/>
I might have sav'd her; now she's gone for ever!<br/>
I might have sav'd her; now she's gone for ever!<br/>
Cordelia, Cordelia! stay a little. Ha!<br/>
Cordelia, Cordelia! stay a little. Ha!<br/>
What is't thou say'st? Her voice was ever soft,<br/>
What is't thou say'st? Her voice was ever soft,<br/>
Gentle, and low, an excellent thing in woman.<br/>
Gentle, and low, an excellent thing in woman.<br/>
I kill'd the slave that was a-hanging thee.
I kill'd the slave that was a-hanging thee.
</p>
</p>


<p>OFFICER.<br/>
<p>OFFICER.<br/>
'Tis true, my lords, he did.
'Tis true, my lords, he did.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Did I not, fellow?<br/>
Did I not, fellow?<br/>
I have seen the day, with my good biting falchion<br/>
I have seen the day, with my good biting falchion<br/>
I would have made them skip. I am old now,<br/>
I would have made them skip. I am old now,<br/>
And these same crosses spoil me. Who are you?<br/>
And these same crosses spoil me. Who are you?<br/>
Mine eyes are not o' the best, I'll tell you straight.
Mine eyes are not o' the best, I'll tell you straight.
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
If Fortune brag of two she lov'd and hated,<br/>
If Fortune brag of two she lov'd and hated,<br/>
One of them we behold.
One of them we behold.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
This is a dull sight. Are you not Kent?
This is a dull sight. Are you not Kent?
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
The same,<br/>
The same,<br/>
Your servant Kent. Where is your servant Caius?
Your servant Kent. Where is your servant Caius?
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
He's a good fellow, I can tell you that;<br/>
He's a good fellow, I can tell you that;<br/>
He'll strike, and quickly too:. He's dead and rotten.
He'll strike, and quickly too:. He's dead and rotten.
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
No, my good lord; I am the very man.
No, my good lord; I am the very man.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
I'll see that straight.
I'll see that straight.
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
That from your first of difference and decay<br/>
That from your first of difference and decay<br/>
Have follow'd your sad steps.
Have follow'd your sad steps.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
You are welcome hither.
You are welcome hither.
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
Nor no man else. All's cheerless, dark and deadly.<br/>
Nor no man else. All's cheerless, dark and deadly.<br/>
Your eldest daughters have fordone themselves,<br/>
Your eldest daughters have fordone themselves,<br/>
And desperately are dead.
And desperately are dead.
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
Ay, so I think.
Ay, so I think.
</p>
</p>


<p>ALBANY.<br/>
<p>ALBANY.<br/>
He knows not what he says; and vain is it<br/>
He knows not what he says; and vain is it<br/>
That we present us to him.
That we present us to him.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
Very bootless.
Very bootless.
</p>
</p>


Line 7,083: Line 11,476:


<p>OFFICER.<br/>
<p>OFFICER.<br/>
Edmund is dead, my lord.
Edmund is dead, my lord.
</p>
</p>


<p>ALBANY.<br/>
<p>ALBANY.<br/>
That's but a trifle here.<br/>
That's but a trifle here.<br/>
You lords and noble friends, know our intent.<br/>
You lords and noble friends, know our intent.<br/>
What comfort to this great decay may come<br/>
What comfort to this great decay may come<br/>
Shall be applied For us, we will resign,<br/>
Shall be applied For us, we will resign,<br/>
During the life of this old majesty,<br/>
During the life of this old majesty,<br/>
To him our absolute power;<br/>
To him our absolute power;<br/>
[<i>to Edgar and Kent</i>] you to your rights;<br/>
[<i>to Edgar and Kent</i>] you to your rights;<br/>
With boot and such addition as your honours<br/>
With boot and such addition as your honours<br/>
Have more than merited. All friends shall taste<br/>
Have more than merited. All friends shall taste<br/>
The wages of their virtue and all foes<br/>
The wages of their virtue and all foes<br/>
The cup of their deservings. O, see, see!
The cup of their deservings. O, see, see!
</p>
</p>


<p>LEAR.<br/>
<p>LEAR.<br/>
And my poor fool is hang'd! No, no, no life!<br/>
And my poor fool is hang'd! No, no, no life!<br/>
Why should a dog, a horse, a rat have life,<br/>
Why should a dog, a horse, a rat have life,<br/>
And thou no breath at all? Thou'lt come no more,<br/>
And thou no breath at all? Thou'lt come no more,<br/>
Never, never, never, never, never!<br/>
Never, never, never, never, never!<br/>
Pray you undo this button. Thank you, sir.<br/>
Pray you undo this button. Thank you, sir.<br/>
Do you see this? Look on her: look, her lips,<br/>
Do you see this? Look on her: look, her lips,<br/>
Look there, look there!
Look there, look there!
</p>
</p>


Line 7,113: Line 11,528:


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
He faints! My lord, my lord!
He faints! My lord, my lord!
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
Break, heart; I prythee break!
Break, heart; I prythee break!
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
Look up, my lord.
Look up, my lord.
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
Vex not his ghost: O, let him pass! He hates him<br/>
Vex not his ghost: O, let him pass! He hates him<br/>
That would upon the rack of this rough world<br/>
That would upon the rack of this rough world<br/>
Stretch him out longer.
Stretch him out longer.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
He is gone indeed.
He is gone indeed.
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
The wonder is, he hath endur'd so long:<br/>
The wonder is, he hath endur'd so long:<br/>
He but usurp'd his life.
He but usurp'd his life.
</p>
</p>


<p>ALBANY.<br/>
<p>ALBANY.<br/>
Bear them from hence. Our present business<br/>
Bear them from hence. Our present business<br/>
Is general woe. [<i>To Edgar and Kent.</i>] Friends of my soul, you twain,<br/>
Is general woe. [<i>To Edgar and Kent.</i>] Friends of my soul, you twain,<br/>
Rule in this realm and the gor'd state sustain.
Rule in this realm and the gor'd state sustain.
</p>
</p>


<p>KENT.<br/>
<p>KENT.<br/>
I have a journey, sir, shortly to go;<br/>
I have a journey, sir, shortly to go;<br/>
My master calls me, I must not say no.
My master calls me, I must not say no.
</p>
</p>


<p>EDGAR.<br/>
<p>EDGAR.<br/>
The weight of this sad time we must obey;<br/>
The weight of this sad time we must obey;<br/>
Speak what we feel, not what we ought to say.<br/>
Speak what we feel, not what we ought to say.<br/>
The oldest hath borne most; we that are young<br/>
The oldest hath borne most; we that are young<br/>
Shall never see so much, nor live so long.
Shall never see so much, nor live so long.
</p>
</p>


<p class="right"> [<i>Exeunt with a dead march.</i>]</p>
<p class="right"> [<i>Exeunt with a dead march.</i>]</p>


{{close-shakespeare}}
{{close-shakespeare}}</text>