The first part of King Henry the Sixt
William Shakespeare
Original text: Bodleian Libraries · Shakespeare First Folio (1623), Bodleian Library Arch. G c.7; diplomatic TEI transcription
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The first Part of Henry the Sixt
Actus Primus. Scœna Prima.
Dead March.
Enter the Funerall of King Henry the Fift, attended on by the Duke of Bedford, Regent of France;…
Bedford. HVng be yͤ heauens with black, yield day to night; Comets importing change of Times and States,…
Glost. England ne're had a King vntill his time: Vertue he had, deseruing to command, His brandisht Sword…
Exe. We mourne in black, why mourn we not in blood? Henry is dead, and neuer shall reuiue:…
Winch. He was a King, blest of the King of Kings. Vnto the French, the dreadfull Iudgement‑Day So…
Glost. The Church? where is it? Had not Church‑men pray'd, His thred of Life had not so soone…
Winch. Gloster, what ere we like, thou art Protector, And lookest to command the Prince and Realme. Thy…
Glost. Name not Religion, for thou lou'st the Flesh, And ne're throughout the yeere to Church thou go'st,…
Bed. Cease, cease these Iarres, & rest your minds in peace: Let's to the Altar: Heralds wayt on…
Enter a Messenger.
Mess. My honourable Lords, health to you all; Sad tidings bring I to you out of France, Of…
Bedf. What say'st thou man, before dead Henry's Coarse? Speake softly, or the losse of those great Townes…
Glost. Is Paris lost? is Roan yeelded vp? If Henry were recall'd to life againe, These news would…
Exe. How were they lost? what trecherie was vs'd?
Mess. No trecherie, but want of Men and Money. Amongst the Souldiers this is muttered, That here you…
Exe. Were our Teares wanting to this Funerall, These Tidings would call forth her flowing Tides.
Bedf. Me they concerne, Regent I am of France: Giue me my steeled Coat, Ile fight for France.…
Enter to them another Messenger.
Mess. Lords view these Letters, full of bad mischance. France is reuolted from the English quite, Except some…
Exit.
Exe. The Dolphin crown'd King? all flye to him? O whither shall we flye from this reproach?
Glost. We will not flye, but to our enemies throats. Bedford, if thou be slacke, Ile fight it…
Bed. Gloster, why doubtst thou of my forwardnesse? An Army haue I muster'd in my thoughts, Wherewith already…
Enter another Messenger.
Mes. My gracious Lords, to adde to your laments, Wherewith you now bedew King Henries hearse, I must…
Win. What? wherein Talbot ouercame, is't so?
3. Mes. O no: wherein Lord Talbot was o'rethrown: The circumstance Ile tell you more at large. The…
Bedf. Is Talbot slaine then? I will slay my selfe, For liuing idly here, in pompe and ease,…
3. Mess. O no, he liues, but is tooke Prisoner, And Lord Scales with him, and Lord Hungerford:…
Bedf. His Ransome there is none but I shall pay. Ile hale the Dolphin headlong from his Throne,…
3. Mess. So you had need, for Orleance is besieg'd, The English Army is growne weake and faint:…
Exe. Remember Lords your Oathes to Henry sworne: Eyther to quell the Dolphin vtterly, Or bring him in…
Bedf. I doe remember it, and here take my leaue, To goe about my preparation.
Exit Bedford.
Glost. Ile to the Tower with all the hast I can, To view th'Artillerie and Munition, And then…
Exit Gloster.
Exe. To Eltam will I, where the young King is, Being ordayn'd his speciall Gouernor, And for his…
Exit.
Winch. Each hath his Place and Function to attend: I am left out; for me nothing remaines: But…
Exit.
Sound a Flourish.
Enter Charles, Alanson, and Reigneir, marching with Drum and Souldiers.
Charles. Mars his true mouing, euen as in the Heauens, So in the Earth, to this day is…
Alan. They want their Porredge, & their fat Bul Beeues: Eyther they must be dyeted like Mules, And…
Reigneir. Let's rayse the Siege: why liue we idly here? Talbot is taken, whom we wont to feare:…
Charles. Sound, sound Alarum, we will rush on them. Now for the honour of the forlorne French: Him…
Exeunt.
Here Alarum, they are beaten back by the English, with great losse.
Enter Charles, Alanson, and Reigneir.
Charles. Who euer saw the like? what men haue I? Dogges, Cowards, Dastards: I would ne're haue fled,…
Reigneir. Salisbury is a desperate Homicide, He fighteth as one weary of his life: The other Lords, like…
Alanson. Froysard, a Countreyman of ours, records, England all Oliuers and Rowlands breed, During the time Edward the…
Charles. Let's leaue this Towne, For they are hayre‑brayn'd Slaues, And hunger will enforce them to be more…
Reigneir. I thinke by someodde Gimmors or Deuice Their Armes are set, like Clocks, still to strike on;…
Alanson. Be it so.
Enter the Bastard of Orleance.
Bastard. Where's the Prince Dolphin? I haue newes for him.
Dolph. Bastard of Orleance, thrice welcome to vs.
Bast. Me thinks your looks are sad, your chear appal'd. Hath the late ouerthrow wrought this offence? Be…
Dolph. Goe call her in: but first, to try her skill, Reignier stand thou as Dolphin in my…
Enter Ioane Puzel.
Reigneir. Faire Maid, is't thou wilt doe these won drous feats?
Puzel. Reignier,is't thou that thinkest to beguile me? Where is the Dolphin? Come, come from behinde, I know…
Reigneir. She takes vpon her brauely at first dash.
Puzel. Dolphin, I am by birth a Shepheards Daughter, My wit vntrayn'd in any kind of Art: Heauen…
Dolph. Thou hast astonisht me with thy high termes: Onely this proofe Ile of thy Valour make, In…
Puzel. I am prepar'd: here is my keene‑edg'd Sword, Deckt with fine Flower‑de‑Luces on each side, The which…
Dolph. Then come a Gods name, I feare no woman.
Puzel. And while I liue, Ile ne're flye from a man.
Here they fight, and Ioane de Puzel overcomes.
Dolph. Stay, stay thy hands, thou art an Amazon, And fightest with the Sword of Debora.
Puzel. Christs Mother helpes me, else I were too weake.
Dolph. Who e're helps thee, 'tis thou that must help me: Impatiently I burne with thy desire, My…
Puzel. I must not yeeld to any rights of Loue, For my Profession's sacred from aboue: When I…
Dolph. Meane time looke gracious on thy prostrate Thrall.
Reigneir. My Lord me thinkes is very long in talke.
Alans. Doubtlesse he shriues this woman to her smock, Else ne're could he so long protract his speech.
Reigneir. Shall wee disturbe him, since hee keepes no meane?
Alan. He may meane more then we poor men do know, These women are shrewd tempters with their…
Reigneir. My Lord, where are you? what deuise you on? Shall we giue o're Orleance, or no?
Puzel. Why no, I say: distrustfull Recreants, Fight till the last gaspe: Ile be your guard.
Dolph. What shee sayes, Ile confirme: wee'le fight it out.
Puzel. Assign'd am I to be the English Scourge. This night the Siege assuredly Ile rayse: Expect Saint…
Dolph. Was Mahomet inspired with a Doue? Thou with an Eagle art inspired then. Helen, the Mother of…
Alanson. Leaue off delayes, and let vs rayse the Siege.
Reigneir. Woman, do what thou canst to saue our honors, Driue them from Orleance, and be immortaliz'd.
Dolph. Presently wee'le try: come, let's away about it, No Prophet will I trust, if shee proue false.
Exeunt.
Enter Gloster, with his Seruing‑men.
Glost. I am come to suruey the Tower this day; Since Henries death, I feare there is Conueyance:…
1. Warder. Who's there, that knocks so imperiously?
Glost. 1. Man. It is the Noble Duke of Gloster.
2. Warder. Who ere he be, you may not be let in.
1. Man. Villaines, answer you so the Lord Protector?
1. Warder. The Lord protect him, so we answer him, We doe no otherwise then wee are will'd.
Glost. Who willed you? or whose will stands but mine? There's none Protector of the Realme, but I:…
Glosters men rush at the Tower Gates, and Wooduile the Lieutenant speakes within.
Wooduile. What noyse is this? what Traytors haue wee here?
Glost. Lieutenant, is it you whose voyce I heare? Open the Gates, here's Gloster that would enter.
Wooduile. Haue patience Noble Duke, I may not open, The Cardinall of Winchester forbids: From him I haue…
Glost. Faint‑hearted Wooduile, prizest him 'fore me? Arrogant Winchester, that haughtie Prelate, Whom Henry our late Soueraigne ne're…
Seruingmen. Open the Ga□es vnto the Lord Protector, Or wee'le burst them open, if that you come not…
Enter to the Protector at the Tower Gates Winchester and his men in Tawney Coates.
Winchest. How now ambitious Vmpheir, what meanes this?
Glost. Piel'd Priest, doo'st thou command me to be shut out?
Winch. I doe, thou most vsurping Proditor, And not Protector of the King or Realme.
Glost. Stand back thou manifest Conspirator, Thou that contriued'st to murther our dead Lord, Thou that giu'st Whores…
Winch. Nay, stand thou back, I will not budge a foot: This be Damascus, be thou cursed Cain,…
Glost. I will not slay thee, but Ile driue thee back: Thy Scarlet Robes, as a Childs bearing…
Winch. Doe what thou dar'st, I beard thee to thy face.
Glost. What? am I dat'd, and bearded to my face? Draw men, for all this priuiledged place, Blew…
Winch. Gloster, thou wilt answere this before the Pope.
Glost. Winchester Goose, I cry, a Rope, a Rope. Now beat them hence, why doe you let them…
Here Glosters men beat out the Cardinalls men, and enter in the hurly‑burly the Maior of London, and…
Maior. Fye Lords, that you being supreme Magistrates, Thus contumeliously should breake the Peace.
Glost. Peace Maior, thou know'st little of my wrongs: Here's Beauford, that regards nor God nor King, Hath…
Winch. Here's Gloster, a Foe to Citizens, One that still motions Warre, and neuer Peace, O're‑charging your free…
Glost. I will not answer thee with words, but blowes.
Here they skirmish againe.
Maior. Naught rests for me, in this tumultuous strife, But to make open Proclamation. Come Officer, as lowd…
Glost. Cardinall, Ile be no breaker of the Law: But we shall meet, and breake our minds at…
Winch. Gloster, wee'le meet to thy cost, be sure: Thy heart‑blood I will haue for this dayes worke.
Maior. Ile call for Clubs, if you will not away: This Cardinall's more haughtie then the Deuill.
Glost. Maior farewell: thou doo'st but what thou may'st.
Winch. Abhominable Gloster, guard thy Head, For I intend to haue it ere long.
Exeunt.
Maior. See the Coast clear'd, and then we will depart. Good God, these Nobles should such stomacks beare,…
Exeunt.
Enter the Master Gunner of Orleance, and his Boy.
M. Gunner. Sirrha, thou know'st how Orleance is besieg'd, And how the Fnglish haue the Suburbs wornne.
Boy. Father I know, and oft haue shot at them, How e're vnfortunate, I miss'd my ayme.
M. Gunner. But now thou shalt not. Be thou rul'd by me: Chiefe Master Gunner am I of…
Exit.
Boy. Father, I warrant you, take you no care, Ile neuer trouble you, if I may spye them.
Exit.
Enter Salisbury and Talbot on the Turrets, with others.
Salisb. Talbot, my life, my ioy, againe return'd? How wert thou handled, being Prisoner? Or by what meanes…
Talbot. The Earle of Bedford had a Prisoner, Call'd the braue Lord Ponton de Santrayle, For him was…
Salisb. Yec tell'st thou not, how thou wert enter tain'd.
Tal. With scoffes and scornes, and contumelious taunts, In open Market‑place produc't they me, To be a publique…
Enter the Boy with a Linstock.
Salisb. I grieue to heare what torments you endur'd, But we will be reueng'd sufficiently. Now it is…
Gargraue. I thinke at the North Gate, for there stands Lords.
Glansdale. And I heere, at the Bulwarke of the Bridge.
Talb. For ought I see, this Citie must be famisht, Or with light Skirmishes enfeebled.
Here they shot, and Salisbury falls downe.
Salisb. O Lord haue mercy on vs, wretched sinners.
Gargraue. O Lord haue mercy on me, wofull man.
Talb. What chance is this, that suddenly hath crost vs? Speake Salisbury; at least, if thou canst, speake:…
Enter a Messenger.
Mess. My Lord, my Lord, the French haue gather'd head. The Dolphin, with one loane de Puzel ioyn'd,…
Here Salisbury lifteth himselfe vp, and groanes.
Talb. Heare, heare, how dying Salisbury doth groane, It irkes his heart he cannot be reueng'd. Frenchmen, Ile…
Alarum. Exeunt.
Here an Alarum againe, and Talbot pursueth the Dolphin, and driueth him: Then enter Ioane de Puzel, driuing…
Talb. Where is my strength, my valour, and my force? Our Englsh Troupes retyre, I cannot stay them,…
Puzel. Come, come, 'tis onely I that must disgrace thee.
Here they fight.
Talb. Heauens, can you suffer Hell so to preuayle? My brest Ile burst with straining of my courage,…
They fight againe.
Puzel. Talbot farwell, thy houre is not yet come, I must goe Victuall Orleance forthwith: A short Alarum:…
Exit.
Talb. My thoughts are whirled like a Potters Wheele, I know not where I am, nor what I…
Exit Talbot.
Alarum, Retreat, Flourish.
Enter on the Walls, Puzel, Dolphin, Reigneir, Alanson, and Souldiers.
Puzel. Aduance our wauing Colours on the Walls, Rescu'd is Orleance from the English. Thus Ioane de Puzel…
Dolph. Diuinest Creature, Astrea's Daughter, How shall I honour thee for this successe? Thy promises are like Adonis…
Reigneir. Why ring not out the Bells alowd, Throughout the Towne? Dolphin command the Citizens make Bonfires, And…
Alans. All France will be repleat with mirth and ioy, When they shall heare how we haue play'd…
Dolph. 'Tis Ioane, not we, by whom the day is wonne: For which, I will diuide my Crowne…
Flourish. Exeunt.
Actus Secundus. Scena Prima.
Enter a Sergeant of a Band, with two Sentinels.
Ser. Sirs, take your places, and be vigilant: If any noyse or Souldier you perceiue Neere to the…
Sent. Sergeant you shall. Thus are poore Seruitors (When others sleepe vpon their quiet beds) Constrain'd to watch…
Enter Talbot, Bedford, and Burgundy, with scaling Ladders: Their Drummes beating a Dead March.
Tal. Lord Regent, and redoubted Burgundy, By whose approach, the Regions of Artoys, Wallon, and Picardy, are friends…
Bed. Coward of France, how much he wrongs his fame, Dispairing of his owne armes fortitude, To ioyne…
Bur. Traitors haue neuer other company. But what's that Puzell whom they tearme so pure?
Tal. A Maid, they say.
Bed. A Maid? And be so martiall?
Bur. Pray God she proue not masculine ere long: If vnderneath the Standard of the French She carry…
Tal. Well, let them practise and conuerse with spirits. God is our Fortresse, in whose conquering name Let…
Bed. Ascend braue Talbot, we will follow thee.
Tal. Not altogether: Better farre I guesse, That we do make our entrance seuerall wayes: That if it…
Bed. Agreed; Ile to yond corner.
Bur. And I to this.
Tal. And heere will Talbot mount, or make his graue. Now Salisbury, for thee and for the right…
Sent. Arme, arme, the enemy doth make assault.
Cry, S. George, A Talbot.
The French leape ore the walles in their shirts. Enter seuerall wayes, Bastard, Alanson, Reignier, halfe ready, and…
Alan. How now my Lords? what all vnreadie so?
Bast. Vnready? I am glad we scap'd so well.
Reig. 'Twas time (I trow) to wake and leaue our beds, Hearing Alarums at our Chamber doores.
Alan. Of all exploits since first I follow'd Armes, Nere heard I of a warlike enterprize More venturous,…
Bast. I thinke this Talbot be a Fiend of Hell.
Reig. If not of Hell, the Heauens sure fauour him.
Alans. Here Commeth Charles, I maruell how he sped?
Enter Charles and Ioane.
Bast. Tut, holy Ioane was his defensiue Guard.
Charl. Is this thy cunning, thou deceitfull Dame? Didst thou at first to flatter vs withall, Make vs…
Ioane. Wherefore is Charles impatient with his friend? At all times will you haue my Power alike? Sleeping…
Charl. Duke of Alanson, this was your default, That being Captaine of the Watch to Night, Did looke…
Alans. Had all your Quarters been as safely kept, As that whereof I had the gouernment, We had…
Bast. Mine was secure.
Reig. And so was mine, my Lord.
Charl. And for my selfe, most part of all this Night Within her Quarter, and mine owne Precinct,…
Ioane. Question (my Lords) no further of the case, How or which way; 'tis sure they found some…
Exeunt.
Alarum. Enter a Souldier, crying, a Talbot, a Talbot: they flye, leauing their Clothes behind.
Sould. Ile be so bold to take what they haue left: The Cry of Talbot serues me for…
Exit.
Enter Talbot, Bedford, Burgundie.
Bedf. The Day begins to breake, and Night is fled, Whose pitchy Mantle ouer‑vayl'd the Earth. Here sound…
Retreat.
Talb. Bring forth the Body of old Salisbury, And here aduance it in the Market‑Place, The middle Centure…
Bedf. 'Tis thought Lord Talbot, when the fight began, Rows'd on the sudden from their drowsie Beds, They…
Burg. My selfe, as farre as I could well discerne, For smoake, and duskie vapours of the night,…
Enter a Messenger.
Mess All hayle, my Lords: which of this Princely trayne Call ye the Warlike Talbot, for his Acts…
Talb. Here is the Talbot, who would speak with him?
Mess. The vertuous Lady, Countesse of Ouergne, With modestie admiring thy Renowne, By me entreats (great Lord) thou…
Burg. Is it euen so? Nay, then I see our Warres Will turne vnto a peacefull Comick sport,…
Talb. Ne're trust me then: for when a World of men Could not preuayle with all their Oratorie,…
Bedf. No, truly, 'tis more then manners will: And I haue heard it sayd, Vnbidden Guests Are often…
Talb. Well then, alone (since there's no remedie) I meane to proue this Ladyes courtesie. Come hither Captaine,…
Whispers.
Capt. I doe my Lord, and meane accordingly.
Exeunt.
Enter Countesse.
Count. Porter, remember what I gaue in charge, And when you haue done so, bring the Keyes to…
Port. Madame, I will.
Exit.
Count. The Plot is layd, if all things fall out right, I shall as famous be by this…
Enter Messenger and Talbot.
Mess. Madame, according as your Ladyship desir'd, By Message crau'd, so is Lord Talbot come.
Count. And he is welcome: what? is this the man?
Mess. Madame, it is.
Count. Is this the Scourge of France? Is this the Talbot, so much fear'd abroad? That with his…
Talb. Madame, I haue beene bold to trouble you: But since your Ladyship is not at leysure, Ile…
Count. What meanes he now? Goe aske him, whither he goes?
Mess. Stay my Lord Talbot, for my Lady craues, To know the cause of your abrupt departure?
Talb. Marry, for that shee's in a wrong beleefe, I goe to certifie her Talbot's here.
Enter Porter with Keyes.
Count. If thou be he, then art thou Prisoner.
Talb. Prisoner? to whom?
Count. To me, blood‑thirstie Lord: And for that cause I trayn'd thee to my House. Long time thy…
Talb. Ha, ha, ha.
Count. Laughest thou Wretch? Thy mirth shall turne to moane.
Talb. I laugh to see your Ladyship so fond, To thinke, that you haue ought but Talbots shadow,…
Count. Why? art not thou the man?
Talb. I am indeede.
Count. Then haue I substance too.
Talb. No, no, I am but shadow of my selfe: You are deceiu'd, my substance is not here;…
Count. This is a Riddling Merchant for the nonce, He will be here, and yet he is not…
Talb. That will I shew you presently. Winds his Horne, Drummes strike vp, a Peale of Ordenance: Enter…
Count. Victorious Talbot, pardon my abuse, I finde thou art no lesse then Fame hath bruited, And more…
Talb. Be not dismay'd, faire Lady, nor misconster The minde of Talbot, as you did mistake The outward…
Count. With all my heart, and thinke me honored, To feast so great a Warrior in my House.
Exeunt.
Enter Richard Plantagenet, Warwick, Somerset, Poole, and others.
Yorke. Great Lords and Gentlemen, What meanes this silence? Dare no man answer in a Case of Truth?
Suff. Within the Temple Hall we were too lowd, The Garden here is more conuenient.
York. Then say at once, if I maintain'd the Truth: Or else was wrangling Somerset in th'error?
Suff. Faith I haue beene a Truant in the Law, And neuer yet could frame my will to…
Som. Iudge you, my Lord of Warwicke, then be tweene vs.
War. Between two Hawks, which flyes the higher pitch, Between two Dogs, which hath the deeper mouth, Between…
York. Tut, tut, here is a mannerly forbearance; The truth appeares so naked on my side, That any…
Som. And on my side it is so well apparrell'd, So cleare, so shinning, and so euident, That…
York. Since you are tongue‑ty'd, and so loth to speake, In dumbe significants proclayme your thoughts: Let him…
Som. Let him that is no Coward, nor no Flatterer, But dare maintaine the partie of the truth,…
War. I loue no Colours: and without all colour Of base insinuating flatterie, I pluck this white Rose…
Suff. I pluck this red Rose, with young Somerset, And say withall, I thinke he held the right.
Vernon. Stay Lords and Gentlemen, and pluck no more Till you conclude, that he vpon whose side The…
Som. Good Master Vernon, it is well obiected: If I haue fewest, I subscribe in silence.
York. And I.
Vernon. Then for the truth, and plainnesse of the Case, I pluck this pale and Maiden Blossome here,…
Som. Prick not your finger as you pluck it off, Least bleeding, you doe paint the white Rose…
Vernon. If I, my Lord, for my opinion bleed, Opinion shall be Surgeon to my hurt, And keepe…
Som. Well, well, come on, who else?
Lawyer. Vnlesse my Studie and my Bookes be false, The argument you held, was wrong in you; In…
Yorke. Now Somerset, where is your argument?
Som. Here in my Scabbard, meditating, that Shall dye your white Rose in a bloody red.
York. Meane time your cheeks do counterfeit our Roses: For pale they looke with feare, as witnessing The…
Som. No Plantagenet: 'Tis not for feare, but anger, that thy cheekes Blush for pure shame, to counterfeit…
Yorke. Hath not thy Rose a Canker, Somerset?
Som. Hath not thy Rose a Thorne, Plantagenet?
Yorke. I, sharpe and piercing to maintaine his truth, Whiles thy consuming Canker eates his falsehood.
Som. Well, Ile find friends to weare my bleeding Roses, That shall maintaine what I haue said is…
Yorke. Now by this Maiden Blossome in my hand, I scorne thee and thy fashion, peeuish Boy.
Suff. Turne not thy scornes this way, Plantagenet.
Yorke. Prowd Poole, I will, and scorne both him and thee.
Suff. Ile turne my part thereof into thy throat.
Som. Away, away, good William de la Poole, We grace the Yeoman, by conuersing with him.
Warw. Now by Gods, will thou wrong'st him, Somerset: His Grandfather was Lyonel Duke of Clarence, Third Sonne…
Yorke. He beares him on the place's Priuiledge, Or durst not for his crauen heart say thus.
Som. By him that made me, Ile maintaine my words On any Plot of Ground in Christendome. Was…
Yorke. My father was attached, not attainted, Condemn'd to dye for Treason, but no Traytor; And that Ile…
Som. Ah, thou shalt finde vs ready for thee still: And know vs by these Colours for thy…
Yorke. And by my Soule, this pale and angry Rose, As Cognizance of my blood‑drinking hate, Will I…
Suff. Goe forward, and be choak'd with thy ambition; And so farwell, vntill I meet thee next.
Exit.
Som. Haue with thee Poole: Farwell ambitious Ri chard.
Exit.
Yorke. How I am b□au'd, and must perforce endure it?
Warw. This blot that they obiect against your House, Shall be whipt out in the next Parliament, Call'd…
Yorke. Good Master Vernon, I am bound to you, That you on my behalfe would pluck a flower.
Ver. In your behalfe still will I weare the same.
Lawyer. And so will I.
Yorke. Thankes gentle. Come, let vs foure to Dinner: I dare say, This Quarrell will drinke Blood another…
Exeunt.
Enter Mortimer, brought in a Chayre, and Iaylors.
Mort. Kind Keepers of my weake decaying Age, Let dying Mortimer here rest himselfe. Euen like a man…
Keeper. Richard Plantagenet, my Lord, will come: We sent vnto the Temple, vnto his Chamber, And answer was…
Mort. Enough: my Soule shall then be satisfied. Poore Gentleman, his wrong doth equall mine. Since Henry Monmouth…
Enter Richard.
Keeper. My Lord, your louing Nephew now is come.
Mor. Richard Plantagenet, my friend, is he come?
Rich. I, Noble Vnckle, thus ignobly vs'd, Your Nephew, late despised Richard, comes.
Mort. Direct mine Armes, I may embrace his Neck, And in his Bosome spend my latter gaspe. Oh…
Rich. First, leane thine aged Back against mine Arme, And in that ease, Ile tell thee my Disease.…
Mort. That cause (faire Nephew) that imprison'd me, And hath detayn'd me all my flowring Youth, Within a…
Rich. Discouer more at large what cause that was, For I am ignorant, and cannot guesse.
Mort. I will, if that my fading breath permit, And Death approach not, ere my Tale be done.…
Rich. Of which, my Lord, your Honor is the last.
Mort. True; and thou seest, that I no Issue haue, And that my fainting words doe warrant death:…
Rich. Thy graue admonishments preuayle with me: But yet me thinkes, my Fathers execution Was nothing lesse then…
Mort. With silence, Nephew, be thou pollitick, Strong fixed is the House of Lancaster, And like a Mountaine,…
Rich. O Vnckle, would some part of my young yeeres Might but redeeme the passage of your Age.
Mort. Thou do'st then wrong me, as yt slaughterer doth, Which giueth many Wounds, when one will kill.…
Dyes.
Rich. And Peace, no Warre, befall thy parting Soule. In Prison, hast thou spent a Pilgrimage, And like…
Exit.
Actus Tertius. Scena Prima.
Flourish. Enter King, Exeter, Gloster, Winchester, Warwick, Somerset, Suffolk, Richard Plantagenet. Gloster offers to put vp a Bill:…
Winch. Com'st thou with deepe premeditated Lines? With written Pamphlets, studiously deuis'd? Humfrey of Gloster, if thou canst…
Glo. Presumptuous Priest, this place cōmands my patiēce, Or thou should'st finde thou hast dis‑honor'd me. Thinke not,…
Winch. Gloster, I doe defie thee. Lords vouchsafe To giue me hearing what I shall reply. If I…
Glost. As good? Thou Bastard of my Grandfather.
Winch. I, Lordly Sir: for what are you, I pray, But one imperious in anothers Throne?
Glost. Am I not Protector, sawcie Priest?
Winch. And am not I a Prelate of the Church?
Glost. Yes, as an Out‑law in a Castle keepes, And vseth it, to patronage his Theft.
Winch. Vnreuerent Glocester.
Glost. Thou art reuerent, Touching thy Spirituall Function, not thy Life.
Winch. Rome shall remedie this.
Warw. Roame thither then. My Lord, it were your dutie to forbeare.
Som. I, see the Bishop be not ouer‑borne: Me thinkes my Lord should be Religious, And know the…
Warw. Me thinkes his Lordship should be humbler, It fitteth not a Prelate so to plead.
Som. Yes, when his holy State is toucht so neere.
Warw. State holy, or vnhallow'd, what of that? Is not his Grace Protector to the King?
Rich. Plantagenet I see must hold his tongue, Least it be said, Speake Sirrha when you should: Must…
King. Vnckles of Gloster, and of Winchester, The speciall Watch‑men of our English Weale, I would preuayle, if…
A noyse within, Downe with the Tawny‑Coats.
King. What tumult's this?
Warw. An Vprore, I dare warrant, Begun through malice of the Bishops men.
A noyse againe, Stones, Stones.
Enter Maior.
Maior. Oh my good Lords, and vertuous Henry, Pitty the Citie of London, pitty vs: The Bishop, and…
Enter in skirmish with bloody Pates.
King. We charge you, on allegeance to our selfe, To hold your slaughtring hands, and keepe the Peace:…
1. Seruing. Nay, if we be forbidden stones, wee'le fall to it with our Teeth.
2. Seruing. Doe what ye dare, we are as resolute.
Skirmish againe.
Glost. You of my household, leaue this peeuish broyle, And let this vnaccustom'd fight aside.
3. Seru. My Lord, we know your Grace to be a man Iust, and vpright; and for your…
1. Seru. I, and the very parings of our Nayles Shall pitch a Field when we are dead.
Begin againe.
Glost. Stay, stay, I say: And if you loue me, as you say you doe, Let me perswade…
King. Oh, how this discord doth afflict my Soule. Can you, my Lord of Winchester, behold My sighes…
Warw. Yeeld my Lord Protector, yeeld Winchester, Except you meane with obstinate repulse To stay your Soueraigne, and…
Winch. He shall submit, or I will neuer yeeld.
Glost. Compassion on the King commands me stoupe, Or I would see his heart out, ere the Priest…
Warw. Behold my Lord of Winchester, the Duke Hath banisht moodie discontented fury, As by his smoothed Browes…
Glost. Here Winchester, I offer thee my Hand.
King. Fie Vnckle Beauford, I haue heard you preach, That Mallice was a great and grieuous sinne: And…
Warw. Sweet King: the Bishop hath a kindly gyrd: For shame my Lord of Winchester relent; What, shall…
Winch. Well Duke of Gloster, I will yeeld to thee Loue for thy Loue, and Hand for Hand…
Glost. I, but I feare me with a hollow Heart. See here my Friends and louing Countreymen, This…
Winch. So helpe me God, as I intend it not.
King. Oh louing Vnckle, kinde Duke of Gloster, How ioyfull am I made by this Contract, Away my…
1. Seru. Content, Ile to the Surgeons.
2. Seru. And so will I.
3. Seru. And I will see what Physick the Tauerne af fords.
Exeunt.
Warw. Accept this Scrowle, most gracious Soueraigne, Which in the Right of Richard Plantagenet, We doe exhibite to…
Glo. Well vrg'd, my Lord of Warwick: for sweet Prince, And if your Grace marke euery circumstance, You…
King. And those occasions, Vnckle, were of force: Therefore my louing Lords, our pleasure is, That Richard be…
Warw. Let Richard be restored to his Blood, So shall his Fathers wrongs be recompenc't.
Winch. As will the rest, so willeth Winchester.
King. If Richard will be true, not that all alone, But all the whole Inheritance I giue, That…
Rich. Thy humble seruant vowes obedience, And humble seruice, till the point of death.
King. Stoope then, and set your Knee against my Foot, And in reguerdon of that dutie done, I…
Rich. And so thriue Richard, as thy foes may fall, And as my dutie springs, so perish they,…
All. Welcome high Prince, the mighty Duke of Yorke.
Som. Perish base Prince, ignoble Duke of Yorke.
Glost. Now will it best auaile your Maiestie, To crosse the Seas, and to be Crown'd in France:…
King. When Gloster sayes the word, King Henry goes, For friendly counsaile cuts off many Foes.
Glost. Your Ships alreadie are in readinesse.
Senet. Flourish. Exeunt.
Manet Exeter.
Exet. I, we may march in England, or in France, Not seeing what is likely to ensue: This…
Exit.
Scœna Secunda.
Enter Pucell disguis'd, with foure Souldiors with Sacks vpon their backs.
Pucell. These are the Citie Gates, the Gates of Roan, Through which our Pollicy must make a breach.…
Souldier. Our Sacks shall be a meane to sack the City. And we be Lords and Rulers ouer…
Knock.
Watch. Che la.
Pucell. Peasauns la pouure gens de Fraunce, Poore Market folkes that come to sell their Corne.
Watch. Enter, goe in, the Market Bell is rung.
Pucell. Now Roan, Ile shake thy Bulwarkes to the ground.
Exeunt.
Enter Charles, Bastard, Alanson.
Charles. Saint Dennis blesse this happy Stratageme, And once againe wee'le sleepe secure in Roan.
Bastard. Here entred Pucell, and her Practisants: Now she is there, how will she specifie? Here is the…
Reig. By thrusting out a Torch from yonder Tower, Which once discern'd, shewes that her meaning is, No…
Enter Pucell on the top, thrusting out a Torch burning.
Pucell. Behold, this is the happy Wedding Torch, That ioyneth Roan vnto her Countreymen, But burning fatall to…
Bastard. See Noble Charles the Beacon of our friend, The burning Torch in yonder Turret stands.
Charles. Now shine it like a Commet of Reuenge, A Prophet to the fall of all our Foes.
Reig. Deferre no time, delayes haue dangerous ends, Enter and cry, the Dolphin, presently, And then doe execution…
Alarum.
An Alarum. Talbot in an Excursion.
Talb. France, thou shalt rue this Treason with thy teares, If Talbot but suruiue thy Trecherie. Pucell that…
Exit.
An Alarum: Excursions. Bedford brought in sicke in a Chayre.
Enter Talbot and Burgonie without: within, Pucell, Charles, Bastard, and Reigneir on the Walls.
Pucell. God morrow Gallants, want ye Corn for Bread? I thinke the Duke of Burgonie will fast, Before…
Burg. Scoffe on vile Fiend, and shamelesse Curtizan, I trust ere long to choake thee with thine owne,…
Charles. Your Grace may starue (perhaps) before that time.
Bedf. Oh let no words, but deedes, reuenge this Trea son.
Pucell. What will you doe, good gray‑beard? Breake a Launce, and runne a‑Tilt at Death, Within a Chayre.
Talb. Foule fiend of France, and Hag of all despight, Incompass'd with thy lustfull paramours, Becomes it thee…
Pucell. Are ye so hot, Sir: yet Pucell hold thy peace, If Talbot doe but Thunder, Raine will…
Talb. Dare yee come forth, and meet vs in the field?
Pucell. Belike your Lordship takes vs then for fooles, To try if that our owne be ours, or…
Talb. I speake not to that rayling Hecate, But vnto thee Alanson, and the rest. Will ye, like…
Alans. Seignior no.
Talb. Seignior hang: base Muleters of France, Like Pesant foot‑Boyes doe they keepe the Walls, And dare not…
Pucell. Away Captaines, let's get vs from the Walls, For Talbot meanes no goodnesse by his Lookes. God…
Exeunt from the Walls.
Talb. And there will we be too, ere it be long, Or else reproach be Talbots greatest fame.…
Burg. My Vowes are equall partners with thy Vowes.
Talb. But ere we goe, regard this dying Prince, The valiant Duke of Bedford: Come my Lord, We…
Bedf. Lord Talbot, doe not so dishonour me: Here will I sit, before the Walls of Roan, And…
Burg. Couragious Bedford, let vs now perswade you.
Bedf. Not to be gone from hence: for once I read, That stout Pendragon, in his Litter sick,…
Talb. Vndaunted spirit in a dying breast, Then be it so: Heauens keepe old Bedford safe. And now…
Exit.
An Alarum: Excursions. Enter Sir Iohn Falstaffe, and a Captaine.
Capt. Whither away Sir Iohn Falstaffe, in such haste?
Falst. Whither away? to saue my selfe by flight, We are like to haue the ouerthrow againe.
Capt. What? will you flye, and leaue Lord Talbot?
Falst. I, all the Talbots in the World, to saue my life.
Exit.
Capt. Cowardly Knight, ill fortune follow thee.
Exit.
Retreat. Excursions. Pucell, Alanson, and Charles flye.
Bedf. Now quiet Soule, depart when Heauen please, For I haue seene our Enemies ouerthrow. What is the…
Bedford dyes, and is carryed in by two in his Chaire.
An Alarum. Enter Talbot, Burgonie, and the rest.
Talb. Lost, and recouered in a day againe, This is a double Honor, Burgonie: Yet Heauens haue glory…
Burg. Warlike and Martiall Talbot, Burgonie Inshrines thee in his heart, and there erects Thy noble Deeds, as…
Talb. Thanks gentle Duke: but where is Pucel now? I thinke her old Familiar is asleepe. Now where's…
Burg. What wills Lord Talbot, pleaseth Burgonie.
Talb. But yet before we goe, let's not forget The Noble Duke of Bedford, late deceas'd, But see…
Exeunt.
Scæna Tertia
Enter Charles, Bastard, Alanson, Pucell.
Pucell. Dismay not (Princes) at this accident, Nor grieue that Roan is so recouered: Care is no cure,…
Charles. We haue been guided by thee hitherto, And of thy Cunning had no diffidence, One sudden Foyle…
Bastard. Search out thy wit for secret pollicies, And we will make thee famous through the World.
Alans. Wee'le set thy statue in some holy place, And haue thee reuerenc't like a blessed Saint. Employ…
Pucell. Then thus it must be, this doth Ioane deuise: By faire perswasions, mixt with sugred words, We…
Charles. I marry Sweeting, if we could doe that, France were no place for Henryes Warriors, Nor should…
Alans. For euer should they be expuls'd from France, And not haue Title of an Earledome here.
Pucell. Your Honors shall perceiue how I will worke, To bring this matter to the wished end. Drumme…
Trumpets sound a Parley.
Charles. A Parley with the Duke of Burgonie.
Burg. Who craues a Parley with the Burgonie?
Pucell. The Princely Charles of France, thy Countrey man.
Burg. What say'st thou Charles? for I am marching hence.
Charles. Speake Pucell, and enchaunt him with thy words.
Pucell. Braue Burgonie, vndoubted hope of France, Stay, let thy humble Hand‑maid speake to thee.
Burg. Speake on, but be not ouer‑tedious.
Pucell. Looke on thy Country, look on fertile France, And see the Cities and the Townes defac't, By…
Burg. Either she hath bewitcht me with her words, Or Nature makes me suddenly relent.
Pucell. Besides, all French and France exclaimes on thee, Doubting thy Birth and lawfull Progenie. Who ioyn'st thou…
Burg. I am vanquished: These haughtie wordes of hers Haue batt'red me like roaring Cannon‑shot, And made me…
Pucell. Done like a Frenchman: turne and turne a gaine.
Charles. Welcome braue Duke, thy friendship makes vs fresh.
Bastard. And doth beget new Courage in our Breasts.
Alans. Pucell hath brauely play'd her part in this, And doth deserue a Coronet of Gold.
Charles. Now let vs on, my Lords, And ioyne our Powers, And seeke how we may preiudice the…
Exeunt.
Scœna Quarta.
Enter the King, Gloucester, Winchester, Yorke, Suffolke, Somerset, Warwicke, Exeter: To them, with his Souldiors, Talbot.
Talb. My gracious Prince, and honorable Peeres, Hearing of your arriuall in this Realme, I haue a while…
King. Is this the Lord Talbot, Vnckle Gloucester, That hath so long beene resident in France?
Glost. Yes, if it please your Maiestie, my Liege.
King. Welcome braue Captaine, and victorious Lord: When I was young (as yet I am not old) I…
Senet. Flourish. Exeunt.
Manet Vernon and Basset.
Vern. Now Sir, to you that were so hot at Sea, Disgracing of these Colours that I weare,…
Bass. Yes Sir, as well as you dare patronage The enuious barking of your sawcie Tongue, Against my…
Vern. Sirrha, thy Lord I honour as he is.
Bass. Why, what is he? as good a man as Yorke.
Vern. Hearke ye: not so: in witnesse take ye that.
Strikes him.
Bass. Villaine, thou knowest The Law of Armes is such, That who so drawes a Sword,'tis present death,…
Vern. Well miscreant, Ile be there as soone as you, And after meete you, sooner then you would.
Exeunt.
Actus Quartus. Scena Prima.
Enter King, Glocester, Winchester, Yorke, Suffolke, Somer set, Warwicke, Talbot, and Gouernor Exeter.
Glo. Lord Bishop set the Crowne vpon his head.
Win. God saue King Henry of that name the sixt.
Glo. Now Gouernour of Paris take your oath, That you elect no other King but him; Esteeme none…
Enter Falstaffe.
Fal. My gracious Soueraigne, as I rode from Calice, To haste vnto your Coronation: A Letter was deliuer'd…
Tal. Shame to the Duke of Burgundy, and thee: I vow'd (base Knight) when I did meete the…
Glo. To say the truth, this fact was infamous, And ill beseeming any common man; Much more a…
Tal. When first this Order was ordain'd my Lords, Knights of the Garrer were of Noble birth; Valiant,…
K. Staine to thy Countrymen, thou hear'st thy doom: Be packing therefore, thou that was't a knight: Henceforth…
Glo. What meanes his Grace, that he hath chaung'd his Stile? No more but plaine and bluntly? (To…
King. What? doth my Vnckle Burgundy reuolt?
Glo. He doth my Lord, and is become your foe.
King. Is that the worst this Letter doth containe?
Glo. It is the worst, and all (my Lord) he writes.
King. Why then Lord Talbot there shal talk with him, And giue him chasticement for this abuse. How…
Tal. Content, my Liege? Yes: But yt I am preuented, I should haue begg'd I might haue bene…
King. Then gather strength, and march vnto him straight: Let him perceiue how ill we brooke his Treason,…
Tal. I go my Lord, in heart desiring still You may behold confusion of your foes.
Enter Vernon and Bassit.
Ver. Grant me the Combate, gracious Soueraigne.
Bas. And me (my Lord) grant me the Combate too.
Yorke. This is my Seruant, heare him Noble Prince.
Som. And this is mine (sweet Henry) fauour him.
King. Be patient Lords, and giue them leaue to speak. Say Gentlemen, what makes you thus exclaime, And…
Ver. With him (my Lord) for he hath done me wrong.
Bas. And I with him, for he hath done me wrong.
King. What is that wrong, wherof you both complain First let me know, and then Ile answer you.
Bas. Crossing the Sea, from England into France, This Fellow heere with enuious carping tongue, Vpbraided me about…
Ver. And that is my petition (Noble Lord:) For though he seeme with forged queint conceite To set…
Yorke. Will not this malice Somerset be left?
Som. Your priuate grudge my Lord of York, wil out, Though ne're so cunningly you smother it.
King. Good Lord, what madnesse rules in braine sicke men, When for so slighr and friuolous a cause,…
Yorke. Let this dissention first be tried by fight, And then your Highnesse shall command a Peace.
Som. The quarrell toucheth none but vs alone, Betwixt our selues let vs decide it then.
Yorke. There is my pledge, accept it Somerset.
Ver. Nay, let it rest where it began at first.
Bass. Confirme it so, mine honourable Lord.
Glo. Confirme it so? Confounded be your strife, And perish with your audacious prate, Presumptuous vassals, are you…
Exet. It greeues his Highnesse, Good my Lords, be Friends.
King. Come hither you that would be Combatants: Henceforth I charge you, as you loue our fauour, Quite…
Exeunt. Manet Yorke, Warwick, Exeter, Vernon.
War. My Lord of Yorke, I promise you the King Prettily (me thought) did play the Orator.)
Yorke. And so he did, but yet I like it not, In that he weares the badge of…
War. Tush, that was but his fancie, blame him not, I dare presume (sweet Prince) he thought no…
Yorke. And if I wish he did. But let it rest, Other affayres must now be managed.
Exeunt.
Flourish. Manet Exeter.
Exet. Well didst thou Richard to suppresse thy voice: For had the passions of thy heart burst out,…
Exit.
Enter Talbot with Trumpe and Drumme, before Burdeaux.
Talb. Go to the Gates of Burdeaux Trumpeter, Summon their Generall vnto the Wall. Sounds. Enter Generall aloft.…
Cap. Thou ominous and fearefull Owle of death, Our Nations terror, and their bloody scourge, The period of…
Exit
Tal. He Fables not, I heare the enemie: Out some light Horsemen, and peruse their Wings. O negligent…
Enter a Messenger that meets Yorke. Enter Yorke with Trumpet, and many Soldiers.
Yorke. Are not the speedy scouts return'd againe, That dog'd the mighty Army of the Dolphin?
Mess. They are return'd my Lord, and giue it out, That he is march'd to Burdeaux with his…
Yorke A plague vpon that Villaine Somerset, That thus delayes my promised supply Of horsemen, that were leuied…
Enter another Messenger.
2. Mes. Thou Princely Leader of our English strength, Neuer so needfull on the earth of France, Spurre…
Yorke. O God, that Somerset who in proud heart Doth stop my Cornets, were in Talbots place, So…
Mes. O send some succour to the distrest Lord.
Yorke. He dies, we loose: I breake my warlike word: We mourne, France smiles: We loose, they dayly…
Mes. Then God take mercy on braue Talbots soule, And on his Sonne yong Iohn, who two houres…
Yorke. Alas, what ioy shall noble Talbot haue, To bid his yong sonne welcome to his Graue: Away,…
Exit
Mes. Thus while the Vulture of sedition, Feedes in the bosome of such great Commanders, Sleeping neglection doth…
Enter Somerset with his Armie.
Som. It is too late, I cannot send them now: This expedition was by Yorke and Talbot, Too…
Cap. Heere is Sir William Lucie, who with me Set from our ore‑matcht forces forth for ayde.
Som. How now Sir William, whether were you sent?
Lu. Whether my Lord, from bought & sold L. Talbot, Who ring'd about with bold aduersitie, Cries out…
Som. Yorke set him on, Yorke should haue sent him ayde.
Luc. And Yorke as fast vpon your Grace exclaimes, Swearing that you with‑hold his leuied hoast, Collected for…
Som. York lyes: He might haue sent, & had the Horse; I owe him little Dutie, and lesse…
Lu. The fraud of England, not the force of France, Hath now intrapt the Noble‑minded Talbot: Neuer to…
Som. Come go, I will dispatch the Horsemen strait: Within sixe houres, they will be at his ayde.
Lu. Too late comes rescue, he is tane or slaine, For flye he could not, if he would…
Som. If he be dead, braue Talbot then adieu.
Lu. His Fame liues in the world. His Shame in you.
Exeunt.
Enter Talbot and his Sonne.
Tal. O yong Iohn Talbot, I did send for thee To tutor thee in stratagems of Warre, That…
Iohn. Is my name Talbot? and am I your Sonne? And shall I flye? O, if you loue…
Talb. Flye, to reuenge my death, if I be slaine.
Iohn. He that flyes so, will ne're returne againe.
Talb. If we both stay, we both are sure to dye.
Iohn. Then let me stay, and Father doe you flye: Your losse is great, so your regard should…
Talb. Shall all thy Mothers hopes lye in one Tombe?
Iohn. I, rather then Ile shame my Mothers Wombe.
Talb. Vpon my Blessing I command thee goe.
Iohn. To fight I will, but not to flye the Foe.
Talb. Part of thy Father may be sau'd in thee.
Iohn. No part of him, but will be shame in mee.
Talb. Thou neuer hadst Renowne, nor canst not lose it.
Iohn. Yes, your renowned Name: shall flight abuse it?
Talb. Thy Fathers charge shal cleare thee from yt staine.
Iohn. You cannot witnesse for me, being slaine. If Death be so apparant, then both flye.
Talb. And leaue my followers here to fight and dye? My Age was neuer tainted with such shame.
Iohn. And shall my Youth be guiltie of such blame? No more can I be seuered from your…
Talb. Then here I take my leaue of thee, faire Sonne, Borne to eclipse thy Life this afternoone:…
Exit.
Alarum: Excursions, wherein Talbots Sonne is hemm'd about, and Talbot rescues him.
Talb. Saint George, and Victory; fight Souldiers, fight: The Regent hath with Talbot broke his word, And left…
Iohn. O twice my Father, twice am I thy Sonne: The Life thou gau'st me first, was lost…
Talb. When fro the Dolphins Crest thy Sword struck fire, It warm'd thy Fathers heart with prowd desire…
Iohn. The Sword of Orleance hath not made me smart, These words of yours draw Life‑blood from my…
Talb. Then follow thou thy desp'rate Syre of Creet, Thou Icarus, thy Life to me is sweet: If…
Exit.
Alarum. Excursions. Enter old Talbot led.
Talb. Where is my other Life? mine owne is gone. O, where's young Talbot? where is valiant Iohn?…
Enter with Iohn Talbot, borne.
Seru. O my deare Lord, loe where your Sonne is borne.
Tal. Thou antique Death, which laugh'st vs here to scorn, Anon from thy insulting Tyrannie, Coupled in bonds…
Dyes
Enter Charles, Alanson, Burgundie, Bastard, and Pucell.
Char. Had Yorke and Somerset brought rescue in, We should haue found a bloody day of this.
Bast. How the yong whelpe of Talbots raging wood, Did flesh his punie‑sword in Frenchmens blood.
Puc. Once I encountred him, and thus I said: Thou Maiden youth, be vanquisht by a Maide. But…
Bur. Doubtlesse he would haue made a noble Knight: See where he lyes inherced in the armes Of…
Bast. Hew them to peeces, hack their bones assunder, Whose life was Englands glory, Gallia's wonder.
Char. Oh no forbeare: For that which we haue fled During the life, let vs not wrong it…
Enter Lucie.
Lu. Herald, conduct me to the Dolphins Tent, To know who hath obtain'd the glory of the day.
Char. On what submissiue message art thou sent?
Lucy. Submission Dolphin? Tis a meere French word: We English Warriours wot not what it meanes. I come…
Char. For prisoners askst thou? Hell our prison is. But tell me whom thou seek'st?
Luc. But where's the great Alcides of the field, Valiant Lord Talbot Earle of Shrewsbury? Created for his…
Puc. Heere's a silly stately stile indeede: The Turke that two and fiftie Kingdomes hath, Writes not so…
Lucy. Is Talbot slaine, the Frenchmens only Scourge, Your Kingdomes terror, and blacke Nemesis? Oh were mine eye‑balles…
Pucel. I thinke this vpstart is old Talbots Ghost, He speakes with such a proud commanding spirit: For…
Char. Go take their bodies hence.
Lucy. Ile beare them hence: but from their ashes shal be reard A Phœnix that shall make all…
Char. So we be rid of them, do with him what yu wilt. And now to Paris in…
Exit.
Scena secunda.
SENNET.
Enter King, Glocester, and Exeter.
King. Haue you perus'd the Letters from the Pope, The Emperor, and the Earle of Arminack?
Glo. I haue my Lord, and their intent is this, They humbly sue vnto your Excellence, To haue…
King. How doth your Grace affect their motion?
Glo. Well (my good Lord) and as the only meanes To stop effusion of our Christian blood, And…
King. I marry Vnckle, for I alwayes thought It was both impious and vnnaturall, That such immanity and…
Glo. Bcside my Lord, the sooner to effect, And surer binde this knot of amitie, The Earle of…
King. Marriage Vnckle? Alas my yeares are yong: And fitter is my studie, and my Bookes, Than wanton…
Enter Winchester, and three Ambassadors.
Exet. What, is my Lord of Winchester install'd, And call'd vnto a Cardinalls degree? Then I perceiue, that…
King. My Lords Ambassadors, your seuerall suites Haue bin consider'd and debated on, Your purpose is both good…
Glo. And for the proffer of my Lord your Master, I haue inform'd his Highnesse so at large,…
King. In argument and proofe of which contract, Beare her this Iewell, pledge of my affection. And so…
Exeunt.
Win. Stay my Lord Legate, you shall first receiue The summe of money which I promised Should be…
Legat. I will attend vpon your Lordships leysure.
Win. Now Winchester will not submit, I trow, Or be inferior to the proudest Peere; Humfrey of Gloster,…
Exeunt
Scœna Tertia.
Enter Charles, Burgundy, Alanson, Bastard, Reignier, and Ione.
Char. These newes (my Lords) may cheere our droo ping spirits: 'Tis said, the stout Parisians do reuolt,…
Alan. Then march to Paris Royall Charles of France, And keepe not backe your powers in dalliance.
Pucel. Peace be amongst them if they turne to vs, Else ruine combate with their Pallaces.
Enter Scout.
Scout. Successe vnto our valiant Generall, And happinesse to his accomplices.
Char. What tidings send our Scouts? I prethee speak.
Scout. The English Army that diuided was Into two parties, is now conioyn'd in one, And meanes to…
Char. Somewhat too sodaine Sirs, the warning is, But we will presently prouide for them.
Bur. I trust the Ghost of Talbot is not there: Now he is gone my Lord, you neede…
Pucel. Of all base passions, Feare is most accurst. Command the Conquest Charles, it shall be thine: Let…
Char. Then on my Lords, and France be fortunate.
Exeunt. Alarum. Excursions.
Enter Ione de Pucell.
Puc. The Regent conquers, and the Frenchmen flye. Now helpe ye charming Spelles and Periapts, And ye choise…
Exit.
Excursions. Burgundie and Yorke fight hand to hand. French flye.
Yorke. Damsell of France, I thinke I haue you fast, Vnchaine your spirits now with spelling Charmes, And…
Puc. Chang'd to a worser shape thou canst not be.
Yor. Oh, Charles the Dolphin is a proper man, No shape but his can please your dainty eye.
Puc. A plaguing mischeefe light on Charles, and thee, And may ye both be sodainly surpriz'd By bloudy…
Yorke. Fell banning Hagge, Inchantresse hold thy tongue.
Puc. I prethee giue me leaue to curse awhile.
Yorke. Curse Miscreant, when thou comst to the stake
Exeunt.
Alarum. Enter Suffolke with Margaret in his hand.
Suff. Be what thou wilt, thou art my prisoner. Gazes on her. Oh Fairest Beautie, do not feare,…
Mar. Margaret my name, and daughter to a King, The King of Naples, who so ere thou art.
Suff. An Earle I am, and Suffolke am I call'd. Be not offended Natures myracle, Thou art alotted…
Mar. Say Earle of Suffolke, if thy name be so, What ransome must I pay before I passe?…
Suf. How canst thou tell she will deny thy suite, Before thou make a triall of her loue?
M. Why speak'st thou not? What ransom must I pay?
Suf. She's beautifull; and therefore to be Wooed: She is a Woman; therefore to be Wonne.
Mar. Wilt thou accept of ransome, yea or no?
Suf. Fond man, remember that thou hast a wife, Then how can Margaret be thy Paramour?
Mar. I were best to leaue him, for he will not heare.
Suf. There all is marr'd: there lies a cooling card.
Mar. He talkes at randon: sure the man is mad.
Suf. And yet a dispensation may bee had.
Mar. And yet I would that you would answer me:
Suf. Ile win this Lady Margaret. For whom? Why for my King: Tush, that's a woodden thing.
Mar. He talkes of wood: It is some Carpenter.
Suf. Yet so my fancy may be satisfied, And peace established betweene these Realmes. But there remaines a…
Mar. Heare ye Captaine? Are you not at leysure?
Suf. It shall be so, disdaine they ne're so much: Henry is youthfull, and will quickly yeeld. Madam,…
Mar. What though I be inthral'd, he seems a knight And will not any way dishonor me.
Suf. Lady, vouchsafe to listen what I say.
Mar. Perhaps I shall be rescu'd by the French, And then I need not craue his curtesie.
Suf. Sweet Madam, giue me hearing in a cause.
Mar. Tush, women haue bene captiuate ere now.
Suf. Lady, wherefore talke you so?
Mar. I cry you mercy, 'tis but Quid for Quo.
Suf. Say gentle Princesse, would you not suppose Your bondage happy, to be made a Queene?
Mar. To be a Queene in bondage, is more vile, Than is a slaue, in base seruility: For…
Suf. And so shall you, If happy Englands Royall King be free.
Mar. Why what concernes his freedome vnto mee?
Suf. Ile vndertake to make thee Henries Queene, To put a Golden Scepter in thy hand, And set…
Mar. What?
Suf. His loue.
Mar. I am vnworthy to be Henries wife.
Suf. No gentle Madam, I vnworthy am To woe so faire a Dame to be his wife, And…
Mar. And if my Father please, I am content.
Suf. Then call our Captaines and our Colours forth, And Madam, at your Fathers Castle walles, Wee'l craue…
Reig. To whom?
Suf. To me.
Reig. Suffolke, what remedy? I am a Souldier, and vnapt to weepe, Or to exclaime on Fortunes ficklenesse.
Suf. Yes, there is remedy enough my Lord, Consent, and for thy Honor giue consent, Thy daughter shall…
Reig. Speakes Suffolke as he thinkes?
Suf. Faire Margaret knowes, That Suffolke doth not flatter, face, or faine.
Reig. Vpon thy Princely warrant, I descend, To giue thee answer of thy iust demand.
Suf. And heere I will expect thy comming.
Trumpets sound. Enter Reignier.
Reig. Welcome braue Earle into our Territories, Command in Aniou what your Honor pleases.
Suf. Thankes Reignier, happy for so sweet a Childe, Fit to be made companion with a King: What…
Reig. Since thou dost daigne to woe her little worth, To be the Princely Bride of such a…
Suf. That is her ransome, I deliuer her, And those two Counties I will vndertake Your Grace shall…
Reig. And I againe in Henries Royall name, As Deputy vnto that gracious King, Giue thee her hand…
Suf. Reignier of France, I giue thee Kingly thankes, Because this is in Trafficke of a King. And…
Reig. I do embrace thee, as I would embrace The Christian Prince King Henrie were he heere.
Mar. Farewell my Lord, good wishes, praise, & praiers, Shall Suffolke euer haue of Margaret.
Shee is going.
Suf. Farwell sweet Madam: but hearke you Margaret, No Princely commendations to my King?
Mar. Such commendations as becomes a Maide, A Virgin, and his Seruant, say to him.
Suf. Words sweetly plac'd, and modestie directed, But Madame, I must trouble you againe, No louing Token to…
Mar. Yes, my good Lord, a pure vnspotted heart, Neuer yet taint with loue, I send the King.
Suf. And this withall.
Kisse her.
Mar. That for thy selfe, I will not so presume, To send such peeuish tokens to a King.
Suf. Oh wert thou for my selfe: but Suffolke stay, Thou mayest not wander in that Labyrinth, There…
Exit
Enter Yorke, Warwicke, Shepheard, Pucell.
Yor. Bring forth that Sorceresse condemn'd to burne.
Shep. Ah Ione, this kils thy Fathers heart out‑right, Haue I sought euery Country farre and neere, And…
Pucel. Decrepit Miser, base ignoble Wretch, I am descended of a gentler blood. Thou art no Father, nor…
Shep. Out, out: My Lords, and please you, 'tis not so I did beget her, all the Parish…
War. Gracelesse, wilt thou deny thy Parentage?
Yorke. This argues what her kinde of life hath beene, Wicked and vile, and so her death concludes.
Shep. Fye Ione, that thou wilt be so obstacle: God knowes, thou art a collop of my flesh,…
Pucell. Pezant auant. You haue suborn'd this man Of purpose, to obscure my Noble birth.
Shep. 'Tis true, I gaue a Noble to the Priest, The morne that I was wedded to her…
Exit.
Yorke. Take her away, for she hath liu'd too long, To fill the world with vicious qualities.
Puc. First let me tell you whom you haue condemn'd; Not me, begotten of a Shepheard Swaine, But…
Yorke. I, I: away with her to execution.
War. And hearke ye sirs: because she is a Maide, Spare for no Faggots, let there be enow:…
Puc. Will nothing turne your vnrelenting hearts? Then Ione discouer thine infirmity, That wartanteth by Law, to be…
Yor. Now heauen forfend, the holy Maid with child?
War. The greatest miracle that ere ye wrought. Is all your strict precisenesse come to this?
Yorke. She and the Dolphin haue bin iugling, I did imagine what would be her refuge.
War. Well go too, we'll haue no Bastards liue, Especially since Charles must Father it.
Puc. You are deceyu'd, my childe is none of his, It was Alanson that inioy'd my loue.
Yorke. Alanson that notorious Macheuile? It dyes, and if it had a thousand liues.
Pue. Oh giue me leaue, I haue deluded you, 'Twas neyther Charles, nor yet the Duke I nam'd,…
War. A married man, that's most intollerable.
Yor. Why here's a Gyrle: I think she knowes not wel (There were so many) whom she may…
War. It's signe she hath beene liberall and free.
Yor. And yet forsooth she is a Virgin pure. Strumpet, thy words condemne thy Brat, and thee. Vse…
Pu. Then lead me hence: with whom I leaue my curse. May neuer glorious Sunne reflex his beames…
Exit
Enter Cardinall.
Yorke. Breake thou in peeces, and consume to ashes, Thou fowle accursed minister of Hell.
Car. Lord Regent, I do greete your Excellence With Letters of Commission from the King. For know my…
Yorke. Is all our trauell turn'd to this effect, After the slaughter of so many Peeres, So many…
War. Be patient Yorke, if we conclude a Peace It shall be with such strict and seuere Couenants,…
Enter Charles, Alanson, Bastard, Reignier.
Char. Since Lords of England, it is thus agreed, That peacefull truce shall be proclaim'd in France, We…
Yorke. Speake Winchcster, for boyling choller chokes The hollow passage of my poyson'd voyce, By sight of these…
Win. Charles, and the rest, it is enacted thus: That in regard King Henry giues consent, Of meere…
Alan. Must he be then as shadow of himselfe? Adorne his Temples with a Coronet, And yet in…
Char. 'Tis knowne already that I am possest With more then halfe the Gallian Territories, And therein reuerenc'd…
Yorke. Insulting Charles, hast thou by secret meanes Vs'd intercession to obtaine a league, And now the matter…
Reig. My Lord, you do not well in obstinacy, To cauill in the course of this Contract: If…
Alan. To say the truth, it is your policie, To saue your Subiects from such massacre And ruthlesse…
War. How sayst thou Charles? Shall our Condition stand?
Char. It Shall: Onely reseru'd, you claime no interest In any our Townes of Garrison.
Yor. Then sweare Allegeance to his Maiesty, As thou art Knight, neuer to disobey, Nor be Rebellious to…
Exeunt
Actus Quintus.
Enter Suffolke in conference with the King, Glocester and Exeter.
King. Your wondrous rare description (noble Earle) Of beauteous Margaret hath astonish'd me: Her vertues graced with externall…
Suf. Tush my good Lord, this superficiall tale, Is but a preface of her worthy praise: The cheefe…
King. And otherwise, will Henry ne're presume: Therefore my Lord Protector, giue consent, That Marg'ret may be Englands…
Glo. So should I giue consent to flatter sinne, You know (my Lord) your Highnesse is betroath'd Vnto…
Suf. As doth a Ruler with vnlawfull Oathes, Or one that at a Triumph, hauing vow'd To try…
Gloucester. Why what (I pray) is Margaret more then that? Her Father is no better than an Earle,…
Suf. Yes my Lord, her Father is a King, The King of Naples, and Ierusalem, And of such…
Glo. And so the Earle of Arminacke may doe, Because he is neere Kinsman vnto Charles.
Exet. Beside, his wealth doth warrant a liberal dower, Where Reignier sooner will receyue, than giue.
Suf. A Dowre my Lords? Disgrace not so your King, That he should be so abiect, base, and…
King. Whether it be through force of your report, My Noble Lord of Suffolke: Or for that My…
Exit.
Glo. I greefe I feare me, both at first and last.
Exit Glocester.
Suf. Thus Suffolke hath preuail'd, and thus he goes As did the youthfull Paris once to Greece, With…
Exit