The life and death of King Richard the Second
William Shakespeare
Original text: Bodleian Libraries · Shakespeare First Folio (1623), Bodleian Library Arch. G c.7; diplomatic TEI transcription
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The life and death of King Richard the Second.
Actus Primus, Scæna Prima.
Enter King Richard, Iohn of Gaunt, with other Nobles and Attendants.
King Richard. OLd Iohn of Gaunt, time‑honoured Lancaster, Hast thou according to thy oath and band Brought hither…
Gaunt. I haue my Liege.
King. Tell me moreouer, hast thou sounded him, If he appeale the Duke on ancient malice, Or worthily…
Gaunt. As neere as I could sift him on that argument, On some apparant danger seene in him,…
Kin. Then call them to our presence face to face, And frowning brow to brow, our selues will…
Enter Bullingbrooke and Mowbray.
Bul. Many yeares of happy dayes befall My gracious Soueraigne, my most louing Liege.
Mow. Each day still better others happinesse, Vntill the heauens enuying earths good hap, Adde an immortall title…
King. We thanke you both, yet one but flatters vs, As well appeareth by the cause you come,…
Bul. First, heauen be the record to my speech, In the deuotion of a subiects loue, Tendering the…
Mow. Let not my cold words heere accuse my zeale: 'Tis not the triall of a Womans warre,…
Bul. Pale trembling Coward, there I throw my gage, Disclaiming heere the kindred of a King, And lay…
Mow. I take it vp, and by that sword I sweare, Which gently laid my Knight‑hood on my…
King. What doth our Cosin lay to Mowbraies charge? It must be great that can inherite vs, So…
Bul. Looke what I said, my life shall proue it true, That Mowbray hath receiu'd eight thousand Nobles,…
King. How high a pitch his resolution soares: Thomas of Norfolke, what sayest thou to this?
Mow. Oh let my Soueraigne turne away his face, And bid his eares a little while be deafe,…
King. Mowbray, impartiall are our eyes and eares, Were he my brother, nay our kingdomes heyre, As he…
Mow. Then Bullingbrooke, as low as to thy heart, Through the false passage of thy throat; thou lyest:…
King. Wrath‑kindled Gentlemen be rul'd by me: Let's purge this choller without letting blood: This we prescribe, though…
Gaunt. To be a make‑peace shall become my age, Throw downe (my sonne) the Duke of Norfolkes gage.
King. And Norfolke, throw downe his.
Gaunt. When Harrie when? Obedience bids, Obedience bids I should not bid agen.
King. Norfolke, throw downe, we bidde; there is no boote.
Mow. My selfe I throw (dread Soueraigne) at thy foot. My life thou shalt command, but not my…
King. Rage must be withstood: Giue me his gage: Lyons make Leopards tame.
Mo. Yea but not change his spots: take but my shame, And I resigne my gage. My deere,…
King. Coosin, throw downe your gage, Do you begin.
Bul. Oh heauen defend my soule from such foule sin. Shall I seeme Crest‑falne in my fathers sight,…
Exit Gaunt.
King. We were not borne to sue, but to command, Which since we cannot do to make you…
Exeunt.
Scæna Secunda.
Enter Gaunt, and Dutchesse of Gloucester.
Gaunt. Alas, the part I had in Glousters blood, Doth more solicite me then your exclaimes, To stirre…
Dut. Findes brotherhood in thee no sharper spurre? Hath loue in thy old blood no liuing fire? Edwards…
Gaunt. Heauens is the quarrel: for heauens substitute His Deputy annointed in his sight, Hath caus'd his death,…
Dut. Where then (alas may I) complaint my selfe?
Gau. To heauen, the widdowes Champion to defence
Dut. Why then I will: farewell old Gaunt. Thou go'st to Couentrie, there to behold Our Cosine Herford,…
Gau. Sister farewell: I must to Couentree, As much good stay with thee, as go with mee.
Dut. Yet one wotd more: Greefe boundeth where it (falls, Not with the emptie hollownes, but weight: I…
Exeunt
Scena Tertia.
Enter Marshall, and Aumerle.
Mar. My L. Aumerle, is Harry Herford arm'd.
Aum. Yea, at all points, and longs to enter in.
Mar. The Duke of Norfolke, sprightfully and bold, Stayes but the summons of the Appealants Trumpet.
Au. Why then the Champions, are prepar'd, and stay For nothing but his Maiesties approach.
Flourish.
Enter King, Gaunt, Bushy, Bagot, Greene, & others: Then Mowbray in Ar mor, and Harrold.
Rich. Marshall, demand of yonder Champion The cause of his arriuall heere in Armes, Aske him his name,…
Mar. In Gods name, and the Kings say who yu art, And why thou com'st thus knightly clad…
Mow. My name is Tho. Mowbray, Duke of Norfolk, Who hither comes engaged by my oath (Which heauen…
Tucket. Enter Hereford, and Harold.
Rich. Marshall: Aske yonder Knight in Armes, Both who he is, and why he commeth hither, Thus placed…
Mar. What is thy name? and wherfore comst yu hither Before King Richard in his Royall Lists? Against…
Bul. Harry of Herford, Lancaster, and Derbie, Am I: who ready heere do stand in Armes, To proue…
Mar. On paine of death, no person be so bold, Or daring hardie as to touch the Listes,…
Bul. Lord Marshall, let me kisse my Soueraigns hand, And bow my knee before his Maiestie: For Mowbray…
Mar. The Appealant in all duty greets your Highnes, And craues to kisse your hand, and take his…
Rich. We will descend, and fold him in our armes. Cosin of Herford, as they cause is iust,…
Bull. Oh let no noble eye prophane a teare For me, if I be gor'd with Mowbrayes speare:…
Gaunt. Heauen in thy good cause make thee prosp'rous Be swift like lightning in the execution, And let…
Bul. Mine innocence, and S. George to thriue.
Mow. How euer heauen or fortune cast my lot, There liues, or dies, tgrue to Kings Richards Throne,…
Rich. Farewell, my Lord, securely I espy Vertue with Valour, couched in thine eye: Order the trial Marshall,…
Mar. Harrie of Herford, Lancaster, and Derby, Receiue thy Launce, and heauen defend thy right.
Bul. Strong as a towre in hope, I cry Amen.
Mar. Go beare this Lance to Thomas D. of Norfolke.
1. Har. Harry of Herford, Lancaster, and Derbie, Stands heere for God, his Soueraigne, and himselfe, On paine…
2. Har. Here standeth Tho: Mowbray Duke of Norfolk On paine to be found false and recreant, Both…
A charge sounded
Mar. Sound Trumpets, and set forward Combatants: Stay, the King hath throwne his Warder downe.
Rich. Let them lay by their Helmets & their Speares, And both returne backe to their Chaires againe:…
Bul. Your will be done: This must my comfort be, That Sun that warmes you heere, shall shine…
Rich. Norfolke: for thee remaines a heauier dombe, Which I with some vnwillingnesse pronounce, The slye slow houres…
Mow. A heauy sentence, my most Soueraigne Liege, And all vnlook'd for from your Highnesse mouth: A deerer…
Rich. It boots thee not to be compassionate, After our sentence, plaining comes too late.
Mow. Then thus I turne me from my countries light To dwell in solemne shades of endlesse night.
Ric. Returne againe, and take an oath with thee, Lay on our Royall sword, your banisht hands; Sweare…
Bull. I sweare.
Mow. And I, to keepe all this.
Bul. Norfolke, so fare, as to mine enemie, By this time (had the King permitted vs) One of…
Mow. No Bullingbroke: If euer I were Traitor, My name be blotted from the booke of Life, And…
Exit.
Rich. Vncle, euen in the glasses of thine eyes I see thy greeued heart: thy sad aspect, Hath…
Bul. How long a time lyes in one little word: Foure lagging Winters, and foure wanton springs End…
Gaunt. I thanke my Liege, that in regard of me He shortens foure years of my sonnes exile:…
Rich. Why Vncle, thou hast many yeeres to liue.
Gaunt. But not a minute (King) that thou canst giue; Shorten my dayes thou canst with sudden sorow,…
Ric. Thy sonne is banish'd vpon good aduice, Where to thy tongue a party‑verdict gaue, Why at our…
Gau. Things sweet to tast, proue in digestion sowre: You vrg'd me as a Iudge, but I had…
Rich. Cosine farewell: and Vncle bid him so: Six yeares we banish him, and he shall go.
Exit.
Flourish.
Au. Confine farewell what presence must not know From where you do remaine, let paper show.
Mar. My Lord, no leaue take I, for I will ride As farre as land will let me,…
Gaunt. Oh to what purpose dost thou hord thy words, That thou returnst no greeting to thy friends?
Bull. I haue too few to take my leaue of you, When the tongues office should be prodigall,…
Gau. Thy greefe is but thy absence for a time.
Bull. Ioy absent, greefe is present for that time.
Gan. What is sixe Winters, they are quickely gone?
Bul. To men in ioy, but greefe makes one houre ten.
Gau. Call it a trauell that thou tak'st for pleasure.
Bul. My heart will sigh, when I miscall it so, Which findes it an inforced Pilgrimage.
Gau. The sullen passage of thy weary steppes Esteeme a soyle, wherein thou art to set The precious…
Bul. Oh who can hold a fire in his hand By thinking on the froste Caucasus? Or cloy…
Gau. Come, come (my son) Ile bring thee on thy way Had I thy youth, and cause, I…
Bul. Then Englands ground farewell: sweet soil adieu, My Mother, and my Nurse, which beares me yet: Where…
Scœna Quarta.
Enter King, Aumerle, Greene, and Bagot.
Rich. We did obserue. Cosine Aumerle, How far brought you high Herford on his way?
Aum. I brought high Herford (if you call him so) but to the next high way, and there…
Rich. And say, what store of parting tears were shed?
Aum. Faith none for me: except the Northeast wind Which then grew bitterly against our face, Awak'd the…
Rich. What said our Cosin when you parted with him?
Au. Farewell: and for my hart disdained yt my tongue Should so prophane the word, that taught me…
Rich. He is our Cosin (Cosin) but 'tis doubt, When time shall call him home from banishment, Whether…
Gr. Well, he is gone, & with him go these thoughts: Now for the Rebels, which stand out…
Ric. We will our selfe in person to this warre, And for our Coffers, with too great a…
Bu. Old Iohn of Gaunt is verie sicke my Lord, Sodainly taken, and hath sent post haste To…
Ric. Where lyes he?
Bu. At Ely house.
Ric. Now put it (heauen) in his Physitians minde, To helpe him to his graue immediately: The lining…
Exit.
Actus Secundus. Scena Prima.
Enter Gaunt, sicke with Yorke.
Gau. Will the King come, that I may breath my last In wholsome counsell to his vnstaid youth?
Yor. Vex not your selfe, nor striue not with your breth, For all in vaine comes counsell to…
Gau. Oh but (they say) the tongues of dying men Inforce attention like deepe harmony; Where words are…
Yor. No, it is stopt with other flatt'ring sounds As praises of his state: then there are sound…
Gaunt. Me thinkes I am a Prophet new inspir'd, And thus expiring, do foretell of him, His rash…
Enter King, Queene, Aumerle, Bushy, Greene, Bagot, Ros, and Willoughby.
Yor. The King is come, deale mildly with his youth, For young hot Colts, being rag'd, do rage…
Qu. How fares our noble Vncle Lancaster?
Ri. What comfort man? How ist with aged Gaunt?
Ga. Oh how that name befits my composition: Old Gaunt indeed, and gaunt in being old: Within me…
Ric. Can sicke men play so nicely with their names?
Gau. No, misery makes sport to mocke it selfe: Since thou dost seeke to kill my name in…
Ric. Should dying men flatter those that liue?
Gau. No, no, men liuing flatter those that dye.
Rich. Thou now a dying, sayst thou flatter'st me.
Gau. Oh no, thou dyest, though I the sicker be.
Rich. I am in health, I breath, I see thee ill.
Gau. Now he that made me, knowes I see thee ill: Ill in my selfe to see, and…
Rich. And thou, a lunaticke leane‑witted foole, Presuming on an Agues priuiledge, Dar'st with thy frozen admonition Make…
Gau. Oh spare me not, my brothers Edwards sonne, For that I was his Father Edwards sonne: That…
Exit
Rich. And let them dye, that age and sullens haue, For both hast thou, and both become the…
Yor. I do beseech your Maiestie impute his words To wayward sicklinesse, and age in him: He loues…
Rich. Right, you say true: as Herfords loue, so his; As theirs, so mine: and all be as…
Enter Northumberland.
Nor. My Liege, olde Gaunt commends him to your Maiestie.
Rich. What sayes he?
Nor. Nay nothing, all is said: His tongue is now a stringlesse instrument, Words, life, and all, old…
Yor. Be Yorke the next, that must be bankrupt so, Though death be poore, it ends a mortall…
Rich. The ripest fruit first fals, and so doth he, His time is spent, our pilgrimage must be:…
Yor. How long shall I be patient? Oh how long Shall tender dutie make me suffer wrong? Not…
Rich. Why Vncle, What's the matter?
Yor. Oh my Liege, pardon me if you please, if not I pleas'd not to be pardon'd, am…
Ric. Thinke what you will: we seise into our hands, His plate, his goods, his money, and his…
Yor. Ile not be by the while: My Liege farewell, What will ensue heereof, there's none can tell.…
Exit.
Rich. Go Bushie to the Earle of Wiltshire streight, Bid him repaire to vs to Ely house, To…
Flourish.
Manet North. Willughby, & Ross.
Nor. Well Lords, the Duke of Lancaster is dead.
Ross. And liuing too, for now his sonne is Duke.
Wil. Barely in title, not in reuennew.
Nor. Richly in both, if iustice had her right.
Ross. My heart is great: but it must break with silence, Er't be disburthen'd with a liberall tongue.
Nor. Nay speake thy mind: & let him ne'r speak more That speakes thy words againe to do…
Wil. Tends that thou'dst speake to th'Du. of Hereford, If it be so, out with it boldly man,…
Ross. No good at all that I can do for him, Vnlesse you call it good to pitie…
Nor. Now afore heauen, 'tis shame such wrongs are borne, In him a royall Prince, and many moe…
Ros. The Commons hath he pil'd with greeuous taxes And quite lost their hearts: the Nobles hath he…
Wil. And daily new exactions are deuis'd, As blankes, beneuolences, and I wo□ not what: But what o'Gods…
Nor. Wars hath not wasted it, for war'd he hath not. But basely yielded vpon comprimize, That which…
Ros. The Earle of Wiltshire hath the realme in Farme.
Wil. The Kings growne bankrupt like a broken man.
Nor. Reproach and dissolution hangeth ouer him.
Ros. He hath not monie for these Irish warres: (His burthenous taxations notwithstanding) But by the robbing of…
Nor. His noble Kinsman, most degenerate King: But Lords, we heare this fearefull tempest sing, Yet seeke no…
Ros. We see the very wracke that we must suffer, And vnauoyded is the danger now For suffering…
Nor. Not so: euen through the hollow eyes of death, I spie life peering: but I dare not…
Wil. Nay let vs share thy thoughts, as thou dost ours
Ros. Be confident to speake Northumberland, We three, are but thy selfe, and speaking so, Thy words are…
Nor. Then thus: I haue from Port le Blan A Bay in Britaine, receiu'd intelligence, That Harry Duke…
Ros. To horse, to horse, vrge doubts to them yt feare.
Wil. Hold out my horse, and I will first be there.
Exeunt.
Scena Secunda.
Enter Queene, Bushy, and Bagot.
Bush. Madam, your Maiesty is too much sad, You promis'd when you parted with the King, To lay…
Qu. To please the King, I did: to please my selfe I cannot do it: yet I know…
Bush. Each substance of a greefe hath twenty shadows Which shewes like greefe it selfe, but is not…
Qu. It may be so: but yet my inward soule Perswades me it is otherwise: how ere it…
Bush. 'Tis nothing but conceit (my gracious Lady.)
Qu. 'Tis nothing lesse: conceit is still deriu'd From some fore‑father greefe, mine is not so, For nothing…
Enter Greene.
Gree. Heauen saue your Maiesty, and wel met Gentle (men: I hope the King is not yet shipt…
Qu. Why hop'st thou so? Tis better hope he is: For his designes craue hast, his hast good…
Gre. That he our hope, might haue retyr'd his power, and driuen into dispaire an enemies hope, Who…
Qu. Now God in heauen forbid.
Gr. O Madam 'tis too true: and that is worse, The L. Northumberland, his yong sonne Henrie Percie,…
Bush. Why haue you □not proclaim'd Northumberland And the rest of the reuolted faction, Traitors?
Gre. We haue: whereupon the Earle of Worcester Hath broke his staffe, resign'd his Stewardship, And al the…
Qu. So Greene, thou art the midwife of my woe, And Bullinbrooke my sorrowes dismall heyre: Now hath…
Bush. Dispaire not Madam.
Qu. Who shall hinder me? I will dispaire, and be at enmitie With couzening hope; he is a…
Enter Yorke
Gre. Heere comes the Duke of Yorke.
Qu. With signes of warre about his aged necke, Oh full of carefull businesse are his lookes: Vncle,…
Yor. Comfort's in heauen, and we are on the earth, Where nothing liues but crosses, care and greefe:…
Enter a seruant.
Ser. My Lord, your sonne was gone before I came.
Yor. He was: why so: go all which way it will: The Nobles they are fled, the Commons…
Ser. My Lord, I had forgot To tell your Lordship, to day I came by, and call'd there,…
Yor. What is't knaue?
Ser. An houre before I came, the Dutchesse di'de.
Yor. Heau'n for his mercy, what a tide of woes Come rushing on this wofull Land at once?…
Exit
Bush. The winde sits faire for newes to go to Ireland, But none returnes: For vs to leuy…
Gr. Besides our neerenesse to the King in loue, Is neere the hate of those loue not the…
Ba. And that's the wauering Commons, for their loue Lies in their purses, and who so empties them,…
Bush. Wherein the king stands generally condemn'd
Bag. If iudgement lye in them, then so do we, Because we haue beene euer neere the King.
Gr. Well: I will for refuge straight to Bristoll Castle, The Earle of Wiltshire is alreadie there.
Bush. Thither will I with you, for little office Will the hatefull Commons performe for vs, Except like…
Bag. No, I will to Ireland to his Maistie: Farewell, if hearts presages be not vaine, We three…
Bu. That's as Yorke thriues to beate back Bullinbroke
Gr. Alas poore Duke, the taske he vndertakes Is numbring sands, and drinking Oceans drie, Where one on…
Bush. Farewell a□ once, for once, for all, and euer. Well, we may meete againe.
Bag. I feare me neuer.
Exit.
Scæna Tertia.
Enter the Duke of Herford, and Northum berland.
Bul. How farre is it my Lord to Berkley now?
Nor. Beleeue me noble Lord, I am a stranger heere in Gloustershire, These high wilde hilles, and rough…
Bull. Of much lesse value is my Companie, Then your good words: but who comes here?
Enter H. Percie.
North. It is my Sonne, young Harry Percie, Sent from my Brother Worcester: Whence soeuer. Harry, how fares…
Percie. I had thought, my Lord, to haue learn'd his health of you.
North. Why, is he not with the Queene?
Percie. No, my good Lord, he hath forsook the Court, Broken his Staffe of Office, and disperst The…
North. What was his reason? He was not so resolu'd, when we last spake together.
Percie. Because your Lordship was proclaimed Traitor. But hee, my Lord, is gone to Rauenspurgh, To offer seruice…
North. Haue you forgot the Duke of Hereford (Boy.)
Percie. No, my good Lord; for that is not forgot Which ne're I did remember: to my knowledge,…
North. Then learne to know him now: this is the Duke.
Percie. My gracious Lord, I tender you my seruice, Such as it is, being tender, raw, and young,…
Bull. I thanke thee gentle Percie, and be sure I count my selfe in nothing else so happy,…
North. How farre is it to Barkely? and what stirre Keepes good old Yorke there, with his Men…
Percie. There stands the Castle, by yond tuft of Trees, Mann'd with three hundred men, as I haue…
Enter Rosse and Willoughby.
North. Here come the Lords of Rosse and Willoughby, Bloody with spurring, fierie red with haste.
Bull. Welcome my Lords, I wot your loue pursues A banisht Traytor; all my Treasurie Is yet but…
Ross. Your presence makes vs rich, most Noble Lord.
Willo. And farre surmounts our labour to attaine it.
Bull. Euermore thankes, th'Exchequer of the poore, Which till my infant‑fortune comes to yeeres, Stands for my Bountie:…
Enter Barkely.
North. It is my Lord of Barkely, as I ghesse.
Bark. My Lord of Hereford, my Message is to you.
Bull. My Lord, my Answere is to Lancaster, And I am come to seeke that Name in England,…
Bark. Mistake me not, my Lord, 'tis not my meaning To raze one Title of your Honor out.…
Enter Yorke.
Bull. I shall not need transport my words by you, Here comes his Grace in Person. My Noble…
York. Shew me thy humble heart, and not thy knee, Whose dutie is deceiuable, and false.
Bull. My gracious Vnckle.
York. Tut, tut, Grace me no Grace, nor Vnckle me, I am no Traytors Vnckle, and that word…
Bull. My gracious Vnckle, let me know my Fault, On what Condition stands it, and wherein?
York. Euen in Condition of the worst degree, In grosse Rebellion, and detested Treason: Thou art a banish'd…
Bull. As I was banish'd, I was banish'd Hereford, But as I come, I come for Lancaster. And…
North. The Noble Duke hath been too much abus'd.
Ross. It stands your Grace vpon, to doe him right.
Willo. Base men by his endowments are made great.
York. My Lords of England, let me tell you this, I haue had feeling of my Cosens Wrongs,…
North. The Noble Duke hath sworne his comming is But for his owne: and for the right of…
York. Well, well, I see the issue of these Armes, I cannot mend it, I must needs confesse,…
Bull. An offer Vnckle, that wee will accept: But wee must winne your Grace to goe with vs…
York. It may be I will go with you: but yet Ile pawse, For I am loth to…
Exeunt.
Scœna Quarta.
Enter Salisbury, and a Captaine.
Capt. My Lord of Salisbury, we haue stayd ten dayes, And hardly kept our Countreymen together, And yet…
Sal. Stay yet another day, thou trustie Welchman, The King reposeth all his confidence in thee.
Capt. 'Tis thought the King is dead, we will not stay; And Meteors fright the fixed Starres of…
Exit.
Sal. Ah Richard, with eyes of heauie mind, I see thy Glory, like a shooting Starre, Fall to…
Exit.
Actus Tertius. Scena Prima.
Enter Bullingbrooke, Yorke, Northumberland, Rosse, Percie, Willoughby, with Bushie and Greene Prisoners.
Bull. Bring forth these men: Bushie and Greene, I will not vex your soules, (Since presently your soules…
Bushie. More welcome is the stroake of death to me, Then Bullingbrooke to England.
Greene. My comfort is, that Heauen will take our soules, And plague Iniustice with the paines of Hell.
Bull. My Lord Northemberland see them dispatch'd: Vnckle, you say the Queene is at your House, For Heauens…
York. A Gentleman of mine I haue dispatch'd With Letters of your loue, to her at large.
Bull. Thankes gentle Vnckle: come Lords away, To fight with Glendoure, and his Complices; A while to worke,…
Exeunt.
Scena Secunda.
Drums: Flourish, and Colours.
Enter Richard, Aumerle, Carlile, and Souldiers.
Rich. Barkloughly Castle call you this at hand?
Au. Yea, my Lord: how brooks your Grace the ayre, After your late tossing on the breaking Seas?
Rich. Needs must I like it well: I weepe for ioy To stand vpon my Kingdome once againe.…
Car. Feare not my Lord, that Power that made you King Hath power to keepe you King, in…
Aum. He meanes, my Lord, tht we are too remisse, Whilest Bullingbrooke through our securitie, Growes strong and…
Rich. Discomfortable Cousin, knowest thou not, That which the searching Eye of Heauen is hid Behind the Globe,…
Salisb. Nor neere, nor farther off, my gracious Lord, Then this weake arme; discomfort guides my tongue, And…
Aum. Comfort my Liege, why lookes your Grace so pale?
Rich. But now the blood of twentie thousand men Did triumph in my face, and they are fled,…
Aum. Comfort my Liege, remember who you are.
Rich. I had forgot my selfe. Am I not King? Awake thou sluggard Maiestie, thou sleepest: Is not…
Enter Scroope.
Scroope. More health and happinesse betide my Liege, Then can my care‑tun'd tongue deliuer him.
Rich. Mine eare is open, and my heart prepar'd: The worst is worldly losse, thou canst vnfold: Say,…
Scroope. Glad am I, that your Highnesse is so arm'd To beare the tidings of Calamitie. Like an…
Rich. Too well, too well thou tell'st a Tale so ill. Where is the Earle of Wiltshire? where…
Scroope. Peace haue they made with him indeede (my Lord.)
Rich. Oh Villains, Vipers, damn'd without redemption, Doggers, easily woon to fawne on any man, Snakes in my…
Scroope. Sweet Loue (I see) changing his propertie, Turnes to the sowrest, and most deadly hate: Againe vncurse…
Aum. Is Bushie, Greene, and the Earle of Wiltshire dead?
Scroope. Yea, all of them at Bristow lost their heads.
Aum. Where is the Duke my Father with his Power?
Rich. No matter where; of comfort no man speake: Let's talke of Graues, of Wormes, and Epitaphs, Make…
Carl. My Lord, wise men ne're waile their present woes, But presently preuent the wayes to waile: to…
Aum. My Father hath a Power, enquire of him, And learne to make a Body of a Limbe.
Rich. Thou chid'st me well: proud Bullingbrooke I come To change Blowes with thee, for our day of…
Scroope. Men iudge by the complexion of the Skie The state and inclination of the day; So may…
Rich. Thou hast said enough. Beshrew thee Cousin, which didst lead me forth Of that sweet way I…
Aum. My Liege, one word.
Rich. He does me double wrong, That wounds me with the flatteries of his tongue. Discharge my followers:…
Exeunt.
Scæna Tertia.
Enter with Drum and Colours, Bullingbrooke, Yorke, Northumberland, Attendants.
Bull. So that by this intelligence we learne The Welchmen are dispers'd, and Salisbury Is gone to meet…
North. The newes is very faire and good, my Lord, Richard, not farre from hence, hath hid his…
York. It would beseeme the Lord Northumberland, To say King Richard: alack the heauie day, When such a…
North. Your Grace mistakes: onely to be briefe, Left I this Title out.
York. The time hath beene, Would you haue beene so briefe with him, he would Haue beene so…
Bull. Mistake not (Vnckle) farther then you should.
York. Take not (good Cousin) farther then you should. Least you mistake the Heauens are ore your head.
Bull. I know it (Vnckle) and oppose not my selfe Against their will. But who comes here? Enter…
Per. The Castle royally is mann'd, my Lord, Against thy entrance.
Bull. Royally? Why, it containes no King?
Per. Yes (my good Lord) It doth containe a King: King Richard lyes Within the limits of yond…
North. Oh, belike it is the Bishop of Carlile.
Bull. Noble Lord, Goe to the rude Ribs of that ancient Castle, Through Brazen Trumpet send the breath…
York. Yet lookes he like a King: behold his Eye (As bright as is the Eagles) lightens forth…
Rich. Wee are amaz'd, and thus long haue we stood To watch the fearefull bending of thy knee,…
North. The King of Heauen forbid our Lord the King Should so with ciuill and vnciuill Armes Be…
Rich. Northumberland, say thus: The King returnes, His Noble Cousin is right welcome hither, And all the number…
Aum. No, good my Lord, let's fight with gentle words, Till time lend friends, and friends their helpeful…
Rich. Oh God, oh God, that ere this tongue of mine, That layd the Sentence of dread Banishment…
Aum. Northumberland comes backe from Bulling brooke.
Rich. What must the King doe now? must he submit? The King shall doe it: Must he be…
North. My Lord, in the base Court he doth attend To speake with you, may it please you…
Rich. Downe, downe I come, like glist'ring Phaeton, Wanting the manage of vnruly Iades. In the base Court?…
Bull. What says his Maiestie?
North. Sorrow, and griefe of heart Makes him speake fondly, like a frantick man: Yet he is come.
Bull. Stand all apart, And shew faire dutie to his Maiestie. My gracious Lord.
Rich. Faire Cousin, You debase your Princely Knee, To make the base Earth prowd with kissing it. Me…
Bull. My gracious Lord, I come but for mine owne.
Rich. Your owne is yours, and I am yours, and all.
Bull. So farre be mine, my most redoubted Lord, As my true seruice shall deserue your loue.
Rich. Well you deseru'd: They well deserue to haue, That know the strong'st, and surest way to get.…
Bull. Yea, my good Lord.
Rich. Then I must not say, no.
Flourish. Exeunt.
Scene Quarta.
Enter the Queene, and two Ladies.
Qu. What sport shall we deuise here in this Garden, To driue away the heauie thought of Care?
La. Madame, wee'le play at Bowles.
Qu. 'Twill make me thinke the World is full of Rubs, And that my fortune runnes against the…
La. Madame, wee'le Dance.
Qu. My Legges can keepe no measure in Delight, When my poore Heart no measure keepes in Griefe.…
La. Madame, wee'le tell Tales.
Qu. Of Sorrow, or of Griefe?
La. Of eyther, Madame.
Qu. Of neyther, Girle. For if of Ioy, being altogether wanting, It doth remember me the more of…
La. Madame, Ile sing.
Qu. 'Tis well that thou hast cause: But thou should'st please me better, would'st thou weepe.
La. I could weepe, Madame, would it doe you good.
Qu. And I could sing, would weeping doe me good, And neuer borrow any Teare of thee. Enter…
Gard. Goe binde thou vp yond dangling Apricocks, Which like vnruly Children, make their Syre Stoupe with oppression…
Ser. Why should we, in the compasse of a Pale, Keepe Law and Forme, and due Proportion, Shewing…
Gard. Hold thy peace. He that hath suffer'd this disorder'd Spring, Hath now himselfe met with the Fall…
Ser. What are they dead?
Gard. They are, And Bullingbrooke hath seiz'd the wastefull King. Oh, what pitty is it, that he had…
Ser. What thinke you the King shall be depos'd?
Gar. Deprest he is already, and depos'd 'Tis doubted he will be. Letters came last night To a…
Qu. Oh I am prest to death through want of speaking: Thou old Adams likenesse, set to dresse…
Gard. Pardon me Madam. Little ioy haue I To breath these newes; yet what I say, is true;…
Qu. Nimble mischance, that art so light of foote, Doth not thy Embassage belong to me? And am…
Exit.
G Poore Queen, so that thy State might be no worse, I would my skill were subiect to…
Exit.
Actus Quartus. Scœna Prima.
Enter as to the Parliament, Bullingbrooke, Aumerle, Nor‑ thumberland, Percie, Fitz‑Water, Surrey, Carlile, Abbot of Westminster. Herauld, Officers…
Bullingbrooke. Call forth Bagot. Now Bagot, freely speake thy minde, What thou do'st know of Noble Glousters death:…
Bag. Then set before my face, the Lord Aumerle.
Bul. Cosin, stand forth, and looke vpon that man.
Bag. My Lord Aumerle, I know your daring tongue Scornes to vnsay, what it hath once deliuer'd. In…
Aum. Princes, and Noble Lords: What answer shall I make to this base man? Shall I so much…
Bul. Bagot forbeare, thou shalt not take it vp.
Aum. Excepting one, I would he were the best In all this presence, that hath mou'd me so.
Fitz. If that thy valour stand on sympathize: There is my Gage, Aumerle, in Gage to thine: By…
Aum. Thou dar'st not (Coward) liue to see the day.
Fitz. Now by my Soule, I would it were this houre.
Aum. Fitzwater thou art damn'd to hell for this.
Per. Aumerle, thou lye'st: his Honor is as true In this Appeale, as thou art all vniust: And…
Aum. And if I do not, may my hands rot off, And neuer brandish more reuengefull Steele, Ouer…
Surrey. My Lord Fitz water: I do remember well, the very time Aumerle, and you did talke.
Fitz. My Lord, 'Tis very true: You were in presence then, And you can witnesse with me, this…
Surrey. As false, by heauen, As Heauen it selfe is true.
Fitz. Surrey, thou Lyest.
Surrey. Dishonourable Boy; That Lye, shall lie so heauy on my Sword, That it shall render Vengeance, and…
Fitzw. How fondly do'st thou spurre a forward Horse? If I dare eate, or drinke, or breathe, or…
Aum. Some honest Christian trust me with a Gage, That Norfolke lyes: here doe I throw downe this,…
Bull. These differences shall all rest vnder Gage, Till Norfolke be repeal'd: repeal'd he shall be; And (though…
Carl. That honorable day shall ne're be seene. Many a time hath banish'd Norfolke fought For Iesu Christ,…
Bull. Why Bishop, is Norfolke dead?
Carl. As sure as I liue, my Lord.
Bull. Sweet peace conduct his sweet Soule To the Bosome of good old Abraham. Lords Appealants, your differēces…
Enter Yorke.
Yorke. Great Duke of Lancaster, I come to thee From plume‑pluckt Richard, who with willing Soule Adopts thee…
Bull. In Gods Name, Ile ascend the Regall Throne.
Carl. Mary, Heauen forbid. Worst in this Royall Presence may I speake, Yet best beseeming me to speake…
North. Well haue you argu'd Sir: and for your paines, Of Capitall Treason we arrest you here. My…
Bull. Fetch hither Richard, that in common view He may surrender: so we shall proceede Without suspition.
Yorke. I will be his Conduct.
Exit.
Bull. Lords, you that here are vnder our Arrest, Procure your Sureties for your Dayes of Answer: Little…
Enter Richard and Yorke.
Rich. Alack, why am I sent for to a King, Before I haue shooke off the Regall thoughts…
Yorke. To doe that office of thine owne good will, Which tyred Maiestie did make thee offer: The…
Rich. Giue me the Crown. Here Cousin, seize yͤ Crown: Here Cousin, on this side my Hand, on…
Bull. I thought you had been willing to resigne.
Rich. My Crowne I am, but still my Griefes are mine: You may my Glories and my State…
Bull. Part of your Cares you giue me with your Crowne.
Rich. Your Cares set vp, do not pluck my Cares downe. My Care, is losse of Care, by…
Bull. Are you contented to resigne the Crowne?
Rich. I, no; no, I: for I must nothing bee: Therefore no, no, for I resigne to thee.…
North. No more: but that you reade These Accusations, and these grieuous Crymes, Committed by your Person, and…
Rich. Must I doe so? and must I rauell out My weau'd‑vp follyes? Gentle Northumberland, If thy Offences…
North. My Lord dispatch, reade o're these Articles.
Rich. Mine Eyes are full of Teares, I cannot see: And yet salt‑Water blindes them not so much,…
North. My Lord.
Rich. No Lord of thine, thou haught‑insulting man; No, nor no mans Lord: I haue no Name, no…
Bull. Goe some of you, and fetch a Looking‑Glasse.
North. Read o're this Paper, while yͤ Glasse doth come.
Rich. Fiend, thou torments me, ere I come to Hell.
Bull. Vrge it no more, my Lord Northumberland.
North. The Commons will not then be satisfy'd.
Rich. They shall be satisfy'd: Ile reade enough, When I doe see the very Booke indeede, Where all…
Bull. The shadow of your Sorrow hath destroy'd The shadow of your Face.
Rich. Say that againe. The shadow of my Sorrow: ha, let's see, 'Tis very true, my Griefe lyes…
Bull. Name it, faire Cousin.
Rich. Faire Cousin? I am greater then a King: For when I was a King, my flatterers Were…
Bull. Yet aske.
Rich. And shall I haue?
Bull. You shall.
Rich. Then giue me leaue to goe.
Bull. Whither?
Rich. Whither you will, so I were from your sights.
Bull. Goe some of you, conuey him to the Tower.
Rich. Oh good: conuey: Conueyers are you all, That rise thus nimbly by a true Kings fall.
Bull. On Wednesday next, we solemnly set downe Our Coronation: Lords, prepare your selues.
Exeunt.
Abbot. A wofull Pageant haue we here beheld.
Carl. The Woes to come, the Children yet vnborne, Shall feele this day as sharpe to them as…
Aum. You holy Clergie‑men, is there no Plot To rid the Realme of this pernicious Blot.
Abbot. Before I freely speake my minde herein, You shall not onely take the Sacrament, To bury mine…
Exeunt.
Actus Quintus. Scena Prima.
Enter Queene, and Ladies.
Qu. This way the King will come: this is the way To Iulius Cæsars ill‑erected Tower: To whose…
Rich. Ioyne not with griefe, faire Woman, do not so, To make my end too sudden: learne good…
Qu. What, is my Richard both in shape and minde Transform'd, and weaken'd? Hath Bullingbrooke Depos'd thine Intellect?…
Rich. A King of Beasts indeed: if aught but Beasts, I had beene still a happy King of…
Enter Northumberland.
North. My Lord, the mind of Bullingbrooke is chang'd. You must to Pomfret, not vnto the Tower. And…
Rich. Northumberland, thou Ladder wherewithall The mounting Bullingbrooke ascends my Throne, The time shall not be many houres…
North. My guilt be on my Head, and there an end: Take leaue, and part, for you must…
Rich. Doubly diuorc'd? (bad men) ye violate A two‑fold Marriage; 'twixt my Crowne, and me, And then betwixt…
Qu. And must we be diuided? must we part?
Rich. I, hand from hand (my Loue) and heart frō heart.
Qu. Banish vs both, and send the King with me.
North. That were some Loue, but little Pollicy.
Qu. Then whither he goes, thither let me goe.
Rich. So two together weeping, make one Woe. Weepe thou for me in France; I, for thee heere:…
Qu. So longest Way shall haue the longest Moanes.
Rich. Twice for one step Ile groane, yͤ Way being short, And peece the Way out with a…
Qu. Giue me mine owne againe: 'twere no good part, To take on me to keep□, and kill…
Rich. We make Woe wanton with this fond delay: Once more adieu; the rest, let Sorrow say.
Exeunt.
Scœna Secunda.
Enter Yorke, and his Duchesse.
Duch. My Lord, you told me you would tell the rest, When weeping made you breake the story…
Yorke. Where did I leaue?
Duch. At that sad stoppe, my Lord, Where rude mis‑gouern'd hands, from Windowes tops, Threw dust and rubbish…
Yorke. Then, as I said, the Duke, great Bullingbrooke, Mounted vpon a hot and fierie Steed, Which his…
Dutch. Alas poore Richard, where rides he the whilst?
Yorke. As in a Theater, the eyes of men After a well grac'd actor leaues the Stage, Are…
Enter Aumerle.
Dut. Heere comes my sonne Aumerle.
Yor. Aumerle that was, But that is lost, for being Richards Friend. And Madam, you must call him…
Dut. Welcome my sonne: who are the Violets now, That strew the greene lap of the new‑come Spring?
Aum. Madam, I know not, nor I greatly care not, God knowes, I had as liefe be none,…
Yorke. Well, beare you well in this new‑spring of time Least you be cropt before you come to…
Aum. For ought I know my Lord, they do.
Yorks. You will be there I know.
Aum. If God preuent not, I purpose so.
Yor. What Seale is that that hangs without thy bosom? Yea, look'st thou pale? Let me see the…
Aum. My Lord, 'tis nothing.
Yorke. No matter then who sees it, I will be satisfied, let me see the Writing.
Aum. I do beseech your Grace to pardon me, It is a matter of small consequence, Which for…
Yorke. Which for some reasons sir, I meane to see: I feare, I feare.
Dut. What should you feare? 'Tis nothing but some bond, that he is enter'd into For gay apparrell,…
Yorke. Bound to himselfe? What doth he with a Bond That he is bound to? Wife, thou art…
Aum. I do beseech you pardon me, I may not shew it.
Yor. I will be satisfied: let me see it I say. Snatches it Treason, foule Treason, Villaine, Traitor,…
Dut. What's the matter, my Lord?
Yorke. Hoa, who's within there? Saddle my horse. Heauen for his mercy: what treachery is heere?
Dut. Why, what is't my Lord?
Yorke. Giue me my boots, I say: Saddle my horse: Now by my Honor, my life, my troth,…
Dut. What is the matter?
Yorke. Peace foolish Woman.
Dut. I will not peace. What is the matter Sonne?
Aum. Good Mother be content, it is no more Then my poore life must answer.
Dut. Thy life answer?
Enter Seruant with Boots.
Yor. Bring me my Boots, I will vnto the King.
Dutt. Strike him Aumerle. Poore boy, yu rt aamaz'd, Hence Villaine, neuer more come in my sight.
Yor. Giue me my Boots, I say.
Dut. Why Yorke, what wilt thou do? Wilt thou not hide the Trespasse of thine owne? Haue we…
Yor. Thou fond mad woman: Wilt thou conceale this darke Conspiracy? A dozen of them heere haue tane…
Dut. He shall be none: Wee'l keepe him heere: then what is that to him?
Yor. Away fond woman: were hee twenty times my Son, I would appeach him.
Dut. Hadst thou groan'd for him as I haue done, Thou wouldest be more pittifull: But now I…
Yorke. Make way, vnruly Woman.
Exit
Dut. After Aumerle. Mount thee vpon his horse, Spurre post, and get before him to the King, And…
Exit
Scœna Tertia.
Enter Bullingbrooke, Percie, and other Lords.
Bul. Can no man tell of my vnthriftie Sonne? 'Tis full three monthes since I did see him…
Per. My Lord, some two dayes since I saw the Prince, And told him of these Triumphes held…
Bul. And what said the Gallant?
Per. His answer was: he would vnto the Stewes, And from the common'st creature plucke a Gloue And…
Bul. As dissolute as desp'rate, yet through both, I see some sparkes of better hope: which elder dayes…
Enter Aumerle.
Aum. Where is the King?
Bul. What meanes our Cosin, that hee stares And lookes so wildely?
Aum. God saue your Grace. I do beseech your Maiesty To haue some conference with your Grace alone.
Bul. Withdraw your selues, and leaue vs here alone: What is the matter with our Cosin now?
Aum. For euer may my knees grow to the earth, My tongue cleaue to my roofe within my…
Bul. Intended, or committed was this fault? If on the first, how heynous ere it bee, To win…
Aum. Then giue me leaue, that I may turne the key, That no man enter, till my tale…
Bul. Haue thy desire.
Yorke within.
Yor. My Liege beware, looke to thy selfe, Thou hast a Traitor in thy presence there.
Bul. Villaine, Ile make thee safe.
Aum. Stay thy reuengefull hand, thou hast no cause to feare.
Yorke. Open the doore, secure foole‑hardy King: Shall I for loue speake treason to thy face? Open the…
Enter Yorke.
Bul. What is the matter (Vnkle) speak, recouer breath, Tell vs how neere is danger, That we many…
Yor. Peruse this writing heere, and thou shalt know The reason that my haste forbids me show.
Aum. Remember as thou read'st, thy promise past: I do repent me, reade not my name there, My…
Yor. It was (villaine) ere thy hand did set it downe. I tore it from the Traitors bosome,…
Bul. Oh heinous, strong, and bold Conspiracie, O loyall Father of a treacherous Sonne: Thou sheere, immaculate, and…
Yorke. So shall my Vertue be his Vices bawd, And he shall spend mine Honour, with his Shame;…
Dutchesse within.
Dut. What hoa (my Liege) for heauens sake let me in.
Bul. What shrill‑voic'd Suppliant, makes this eager cry?
Dut. A woman, and thine Aunt (great King) 'tis I. Speake with me, pitty me, open the dore,…
Bul. Our Scene is alter'd from a serious thing, And now chang'd to the Begger, and the King.…
Yorke. If thou do pardon, whosoeuer pray, More sinnes for this forgiuenesse, prosper may. This fester'd ioynt cut…
Enter Dutchesse.
Dut. O King, beleeue not this hard‑hearted man, Loue, louing not it selfe, none other can.
Yor. Thou franticke woman, what dost yu make here, Shall thy old dugges, once more a Traitor reare?
Dut. Sweet Yorke be patient, heare me gentle Liege.
Bul. Rise vp good Aunt.
Dut. Not yet, I thee beseech. For euer will I kneele vpon my knees, And neuer see day,…
Aum. Vnto my mothers prayres, I bend my knee.
Yorke. Against them both, my true ioynts bended be.
Dut. Pleades he in earnest? Looke vpon his Face, His eyes do drop no teares: his prayres are…
Bul. Good Aunt stand vp.
Dut. Nay, do not say stand vp. But Pardon first, and afterwards stand vp. And if I were…
York. Speake it in French (King) say Pardon'ne moy.
Dut. Dost thou teach pardon, Pardon to destroy? Ah my sowre husband, my hard‑hearted Lord, That set's the…
Bul. Good Aunt, stand vp.
Dut. I do not sue to stand, Pardon is all the suite I haue in hand.
Bul. I pardon him, as heauen shall pardon mee.
Dut. O happy vantage of a kneeling knee: Yet am I sicke for feare: Speake it againe, Twice…
Bul. I pardon him with all my hart.
Dut. A God on earth thou art.
Bul. But for our trusty brother‑in‑Law, the Abbot, With all the rest of that consorted crew, Destruction straight…
Dut. Come my old son, I pray heauen make thee new.
Exeunt.
Enter Exton and Seruants.
Ext. Didst thou not marke the King what words hee spake? Haue I no friend will rid me…
Ser. Those were his very words.
Ex. Haue I no Friend? (quoth he:) he spake it twice, And vrg'd it twice together, did he…
Ser. He did.
Ex. And speaking it, he wistly look'd on me, As who should say, I would thou wer't the…
Exit.
Scæna Quarta.
Enter Richard.
Rich. I haue bin studying, how to compare This Prison where I liue, vnto the World: And for…
Ha, ha? keepe time: How sowre sweet Musicke is, When Time is broke, and no Proportion kept? So…
Enter Groome.
Groo. Haile Royall Prince.
Rich. Thankes Noble Peere, The cheapest of vs, is ten groates too deere. What are thou? And how…
Groo. I was poore Groome of thy Stable (King) When thou wer't King: who trauelling towards Yorke, With…
Rich. Rode he on Barbary? Tell me gentle Friend, How went he vnder him?
Groo. So proudly, as if he had disdain'd the ground.
Rich. So proud, that Bullingbrooke was on his backe; That Iade hath eate bread from my Royall hand.…
Enter Keeper with a Dish.
Keep. Fellow, giue place, heere is no longer stay.
Rich. If thou loue me, 'tis time thou wer't away.
Groo. What my tongue dares not, that my heart shall say.
Exit.
Keep. My Lord, wilt please you to fall too?
Rich. Taste of it first, as thou wer't wont to doo.
Keep. My Lord I dare not: Sir Pierce of Exton, Who lately came from th'King, commands the contrary.
Rich. The diuell take Henrie of Lancaster, and thee; Patience is stale, and I am weary of it.
Keep. Helpe, helpe, helpe.
Enter Exton and Seruants.
Ri. How now? what meanes Death in this rude assalt? Villaine, thine owne hand yeelds thy deaths instrument,…
Exton. As full of Valor, as of Royall blood, Both haue I spilt: Oh would the deed were…
Exit.
Scœna Quinta.
Flourish. Enter Bullingbrooke, Yorke, with other Lords & attendants.
Bul. Kinde Vnkle Yorke, the latest newes we heare, Is that the Rebels haue consum'd with fire Our…
Nor. First to thy Sacred State, wish I all happinesse: The next newes is, I haue to London…
Bul. We thank thee gentle Percy for thy paines, And to thy worth will adde right worthy gaines.
Enter Fitz‑waters.
Fitz. My Lord, I haue from Oxford sent to London, The heads of Broccas, and Sir Bennet Seely,…
Bul. Thy paines Fitzwaters shall not be forgot, Right Noble is thy merit, well I wot.
Enter Percy and Carlile.
Per. The grand Conspirator, Abbot of Westminster, With clog of Conscience, and sowre Melancholly, Hath yeelded vp his…
Bul. Carlile, this is your doome: Choose out some secret place, some reuerend roome More then thou hast,…
Enter Exton with a Coffin.
Exton. Great King, within this Coffin I present Thy buried feare. Heerein all breathlesse lies The mightiest of…
Bul. Exton, I thanke thee not, for thou hast wrought A deede of Slaughter, with thy fatall hand,…
Ex. From your owne mouth my Lord, did I this deed.
Bul. They loue not poyson, that do poyson neede, Nor do I thee: though I did wish him…
Exeunt