The third Part of Henry the Sixt, with the death of the Duke of Yorke

The third Part of Henry the Sixt, with the death of the Duke of YORKE.

Actus Primus. Scœna Prima.

Alarum.

Enter Plantagenet, Edward, Richard, Norfolke, Mount­ ague, Warwicke, and Souldiers.

Warwicke. I Wonder how the King escap'd our hands?

Pl. while we pursu'd the Horsmen of yͤ North, He slyly stole away, and left his men: Whereat…

Edw. Lord Staffords Father, Duke of Buckingham, Is either slaine or wounded dangerous. I cleft his Beauer with…

Mount. And Brother, here's the Earle of Wiltshires (blood, Whom I encountred as the Battels ioyn'd.

Rich. Speake thou for me, and tell them what I did.

Plan. Richard hath best deseru'd of all my sonnes: But is your Grace dead, my Lord of Somerset?

Nor. Such hope haue all the line of Iohn of Gaunt.

Rich. Thus do I hope to shake King Henries head.

Warw. And so doe I, victorious Prince of Yorke. Before I see thee seated in that Throne, Which…

Plant. Assist me then, sweet Warwick, and I will, For hither we haue broken in by force.

Norf. Wee'le all assist you: he that flyes, shall dye.

Plant. Thankes gentle Norfolke, stay by me my Lords, And Souldiers stay and lodge by me this Night.

They goe vp.

Warw. And when the King comes, offer him no violence, Vnlesse he seeke to thrust you out perforce.

Plant. The Queene this day here holds her Parliament, But little thinkes we shall be of her counsaile,…

Rich. Arm'd as we are, let's stay within this House.

Warw. The bloody Parliament shall this be call'd, Vnlesse Plantagenet, Duke of Yorke, be King, And bashfull Henry…

Plant. Then leaue me not, my Lords be resolute, I meane to take possession of my Right.

Warw. Neither the King, nor he that loues him best, The prowdest hee that holds vp Lancaster, Dares…

Flourish. Enter King Henry, Clifford, Northumberland, Westmerland, Exeter, and the rest.

Henry. My Lords, looke where the sturdie Rebell sits, Euen in the Chayre of State: belike he meanes,…

Northumb. If I be not, Heauens be reueng'd on me.

Clifford. The hope thereof, makes Clifford mourne in Steele.

Westm. What, shall we suffer this? lets pluck him down, My heart for anger burnes, I cannot brooke…

Henry. Be patient, gentle Earle of Westmerland.

Clifford. Patience is for Poultroones, such as he: He durst not sit there, had your Father liu'd. My…

North. Well hast thou spoken, Cousin be it so.

Henry. Ah, know you not the Citie fauours them, And they haue troupes of Souldiers at their beck?

Westm. But when the Duke is slaine, they'le quickly flye.

Henry. Farre be the thought of this from Henries heart, To make a Shambles of the Parliament House.…

Yorke. I am thine.

Exet. For shame come downe, he made thee Duke of Yorke.

Yorke. It was my Inheritance, as the Earledome was.

Exet. Thy Father was a Traytor to the Crowne.

Warw. Exeter thou art a Traytor to the Crowne, In following this vsurping Henry.

Clifford. Whom should hee follow, but his naturall King?

Warw. True Clifford, that's Richard Duke of Yorke.

Henry. And shall I stand, and thou sit in my Throne?

Yorke. It must and shall be so, content thy selfe.

Warw. Be Duke of Lancaster, let him be King.

Westm. He is both King, and Duke of Lancaster, And that the Lord of Westmerland shall maintaine.

Warw. And Warwick shall disproue it. You forget, That we are those which chas'd you from the field,…

Northumb. Yes Warwicke, I remember it to my griefe, And by his Soule, thou and thy House shall…

Westm. Piantagenet, of thee and these thy Sonnes, Thy Kinsmen, and thy Friends, Ile haue more liues Then…

Cliff. Vrge it no more, lest that in stead of words, I send thee, Warwicke, such a Messenger,…

Warw. Poore Clifford, how I scorne his worthlesse Threats.

Plant. Will you we shew our Title to the Crowne? If not, our Swords shall pleade it in…

Henry. What Title hast thou Traytor to the Crowne? My Father was as thou art, Duke of Yorke,…

Warw. Talke not of France, sith thou hast lost it all.

Henry. The Lord Protector lost it, and not I: When I was crown'd, I was but nine moneths…

Rich. You are old enough now, And yet me thinkes you loose: Father teare the Crowne from the…

Edward. Sweet Father doe so, set it on your Head.

Mount. Good Brother, As thou lou'st and honorest Armes, Let's fight it out, and not stand cauilling thus.

Richard. Sound Drummes and Trumpets, and the King will flye.

Plant. Sonnes peace.

Henry. Peace thou, and giue King Henry leaue to speake.

Warw. Plantagenet shal speake first: Heare him Lords, And be you silent and attentiue too, For he that…

Hen. Think'st thou, that I will leaue my Kingly Throne, Wherein my Grandsire and my Father sat? No:…

Warw. Proue it Henry, and thou shalt be King.

Hen. Henry the Fourth by Conquest got the Crowne.

Plant. 'Twas by Rebellion against his King.

Henry. I know not what to say, my Titles weake: Tell me, may not a King adopt an…

Plant. What then?

Henry. And if he may, then am I lawfull King: For Richard, in the view of many Lords,…

Plant. He rose against him, being his Soueraigne, And made him to resigne his Crowne perforce.

Warw. Suppose, my Lords, he did it vnconstrayn'd, Thinke you 'twere preiudiciall to his Crowne?

Exet. No: for he could not so resigne his Crowne, But that the next Heire should succeed and…

Henry. Art thou against vs, Duke of Exeter?

Exet. His is the right, and therefore pardon me.

Plant. Why whisper you, my Lords, and answer not?

Exet. My Conscience tells me he is lawfull King.

Henry. All will reuolt from me, and turne to him.

Northumb. Plantagenet, for all the Clayme thou lay'st, Thinke not, that Henry shall be so depos'd.

Warw. Depos'd he shall be, in despight of all.

Northumb. Thou art deceiu'd: 'Tis not thy Southerne power Of Essex, Norfolke, Suffolke, nor of Kent, Which makes…

Clifford. King Henry, be thy Title right or wrong, Lord Clifford vowes to fight in thy defence: May…

Henry. Oh Clifford, how thy words reuiue my heart.

Plant. Henry of Lancaster, resigne thy Crowne: What mutter you, or what conspire you Lords?

Warw. Doe right vnto this Princely Duke of Yorke, Or I will fill the House with armed men,…

He stampes with his foot, and the Souldiers shew themselues.

Henry. My Lord of Warwick, heare but one word, Let me for this my life time reigne as…

Plant. Confirme the Crowne to me and to mine Heires, And thou shalt reigne in quiet while thou…

Henry. I am content: Richard Plantagenet Enioy the Kingdome after my decease.

Clifford. What wrong is this vnto the Prince, your Sonne?

Warw. What good is this to England, and himselfe?

Westm. Base, fearefull, and despayring Henry.

Clifford. How hast thou iniur'd both thy selfe and vs?

Westm. I cannot stay to heare these Articles.

Northumb. Nor I.

Clifford. Come Cousin, let vs tell the Queene these Newes.

Westm. Farwell faint‑hearted and degenerate King, In whose cold blood no sparke of Honor bides.

Northumb. Be thou a prey vnto the House of Yorke, And dye in Bands, for this vnmanly deed.

Cliff. In dreadfull Warre may'st thou be ouercome, Or liue in peace abandon'd and despis'd.

Warw. Turne this way Henry, and regard them not.

Exeter. They seeke reuenge, and therefore will not yeeld.

Henry. Ah Exeter.

Warw. Why should you sigh, my Lord?

Henry. Not for my selfe Lord Warwick, but my Sonne, Whom I vnnaturally shall dis‑inherite. But be it…

Plant. This Oath I willingly take, and will performe.

Warw. Long liue King Henry: Plantagenet embrace him.

Henry. And long liue thou, and these thy forward Sonnes.

Plant. Now Yorke and Lancaster are reconcil'd.

Exet. Accurst be he that seekes to make them foes.

Senet. Here they come downe.

Plant. Farewell my gracious Lord, Ile to my Castle.

Warw. And Ile keepe London with my Souldiers.

Norf. And I to Norfolke with my follower□.

Mount. And I vnto the Sea, from whence I came.

Henry. And I with griefe and sorrow to the Court.

Enter the Queene.

Exeter. Heere comes the Queene, Whose Lookes bewray her anger: Ile steale away.

Henry. Exeter so will I.

Queene. Nay, goe not from me, I will follow thee.

Henry. Be patient gentle Queene, and I will stay.

Queene. Who can be patient in such extreames? Ah wretched man, would I had dy'de a Maid? And…

Prince. Father, you cannot dis‑inherite me: If you be King, why should not I succeede?

Henry. Pardon me Margaret, pardon me sweet Sonne, The Earle of Warwick and the Duke enforc't me.

Quee. Enforc't thee? Art thou King, and wilt be forc't? I shame to heare thee speake: ah timorous…

Henry. Stay gentle Margaret, and heare me speake.

Queene. Thou hast spoke too much already: get thee gone.

Henry. Gentle Sonne Edward, thou wilt stay me?

Queene. I, to be murther'd by his Enemies.

Prince. When I returne with victorie to the field, Ile see your Grace: till then, Ile follow her.

Queene. Come Sonne away, we may not linger thus.

Henry. Poore Queene, How loue to me, and to her Sonne, Hath made her breake out into termes…

Exet. And I, I hope, shall reconcile them all.

Exit.

Flourish. Enter Richard, Edward, and Mountague.

Richard. Brother, though I bee youngest, giue mee leaue.

Edward. No, I can better play the Orator.

Mount. But I haue reasons strong and forceable.

Enter the Duke of Yorke.

Yorke. Why how now Sonnes, and Brother, at a strife? What is your Quarrell? how began it first?

Edward. No Quarrell, but a slight Contention.

Yorke. About what?

Rich. About that which concernes your Grace and vs, The Crowne of England, Father, which is yours.

Yorke. Mine Boy? not till King Henry be dead.

Richard. Your Right depends not on his life, or death.

Edward. Now you are Heire, therefore enioy it now: By giuing the House of Lancaster leaue to breathe,…

Yorke. I tooke an Oath, that hee should quietly reigne.

Edward. But for a Kingdome any Oath may be broken: I would breake a thousand Oathes, to reigne…

Richard. No: God forbid your Grace should be for­ sworne.

Yorke. I shall be, if I clayme by open Warre.

Richard. Ile proue the contrary, if you'le heare mee speake.

Yorke. Thou canst not, Sonne: it is impossible.

Richard. An Oath is of no moment, being not tooke Before a true and lawfull Magistrate, That hath…

Yorke. Richard ynough: I will be King, or dye. Brother, thou shalt to London presently, And whet on…

Gabriel. The Queene, With all the Northerne Earles and Lords, Intend here to besiege you in your Castle.…

Yorke. I, with my Sword. What? think'st thou, that we feare them? Edward and Richard, you shall stay…

Mount. Brother, I goe: Ile winne them, feare it not. And thus most humbly I doe take my…

Exit Mountague.

Enter Mortimer, and his Brother.

Yorke. Sir Iohn, and Sir Hugh Mortimer, mine Vnckles, You are come to Sandall in a happie houre.…

Iohn. Shee shall not neede, wee'le meete her in the field.

Yorke. What, with fiue thousand men?

Richard. I, with fiue hundred, Father, for a neede. A Woman's generall: what should we feare?

A March afarre off.

Edward. I heare their Drummes: Let's set our men in order, And issue forth, and bid them Battaile…

Yorke. Fiue men to twentie: though the oddes be great, I doubt not, Vnckle, of our Victorie. Many…

Alarum. Exit.

Enter Rutland, and his Tutor.

Rutland. Ah, whither shall I flye, to scape their hands? Ah Tutor, looke where bloody Clifford comes.

Enter Clifford.

Clifford. Chaplaine away, thy Priesthood saues thy life. As for the Brat of this accursed Duke, Whose Father…

Tutor. And I, my Lord, will beare him company.

Clifford. Souldiers, away with him.

Tutor. Ah Clifford, murther not this innocent Child, Least thou be hated both of God and Man.

Exit.

Clifford. How now? is he dead alreadie? Or is it feare, that makes him close his eyes? Ile…

Rutland. So looks the pent‑vp Lyon o're the Wretch, That trembles vnder his deuouring Pawes: And so he…

Clifford. In vaine thou speak'st, poore Boy: My Fathers blood hath stopt the passage Where thy words should…

Rutland. Then let my Fathers blood open it againe, He is a man, and Clifford cope with him.

Clifford. Had I thy Brethren here, their liues and thine Were not reuenge sufficient for me: No, if…

Rutland. Oh let me pray, before I take my death: To thee I pray; sweet Clifford pitty me.

Clifford. Such pitty as my Rapiers point affords.

Rutland. I neuer did thee harme: why wilt thou slay me?

Clifford. Thy Father hath.

Rutland. But 'twas ere I was borne. Thou hast one Sonne, for his sake pitty me, Least in…

Clifford. No cause? thy Father slew my Father: there­ fore dye.

Rutland. Dis faciant laudis summa sit ista tuæ.

Clifford. Plantagenet, I come Plantagenet: And this thy Sonnes blood cleauing to my Blade, Shall rust vpon my…

Exit.

Alarum. Enter Richard, Duke of Yorke.

Yorke. The Army of the Queene hath got the field: My Vnckles both are slaine, in rescuing me;…

Northumb. Yeeld to our mercy, proud Plantagenet.

Clifford. I, to such mercy, as his ruthlesse Arme With downe‑right payment, shew'd vnto my Father. Now Phaeton…

Yorke. My ashes, as the Phœnix, may bring forth A Bird, that will reuenge vpon you all: And…

Cliff. So Cowards fight, when they can flye no further, So Doues doe peck the Faulcons piercing Tallons,…

Yorke. Oh Clifford, but bethinke thee once againe, And in thy thought ore‑run my former time: And if…

Clifford. I will not bandie with thee word for word, But buckler with thee blowes twice two for…

Queene. Hold valiant Clifford, for a thousand causes I would prolong a while the Traytors Life: Wrath makes…

Northumb. Hold Clifford, doe not honor him so much, To prick thy finger, though to wound his heart.…

Clifford. I, I, so striues the Woodcocke with the Gynne.

Northumb. So doth the Connie struggle in the Net.

York. So triumph Theeues vpon their conquer'd Booty, So True men yeeld with Robbers, so o're‑matcht.

Northumb. What would your Grace haue done vnto him now?

Queene. Braue Warriors, Clifford, and Northumberland, Come make him stand vpon this Mole‑hill here, That raught at Mountaines…

Now in his Life, against your holy Oath? Oh 'tis a fault too too vnpardonable. Off with the…

Clifford. That is my Offce, for my Fathers sake.

Queene. Nay stay, let's heare the Orizons hee makes.

Yorke. Shee‑Wolfe of France, But worse then Wolues of France, Whose Tongue more poysons then the Adders Tooth:…

Northumb. Beshrew me, but his passions moues me so, That hardly can I check my eyes from Teares.

Yorke. That Face of his, The hungry Caniballs would not haue toucht, Would not haue stayn'd with blood:…

Northumb. Had he been slaughter‑man to all my Kinne, I should not for my Life but weepe with…

Queene. What, weeping ripe, my Lord Northumberland? Thinke but vpon the wrong he did vs all, And that…

Clifford. Heere's for my Oath, heere's for my Fathers Death.

Queene. And heere's to right our gentle‑hearted King.

Yorke. Open thy Gate of Mercy, gracious God, My Soule flyes through these wounds, to seeke out thee.

Queene. Off with his Head, and set it on Yorke Gates, So Yorke may ouer‑looke the Towne of…

Flourish. Exit.

A March. Enter Edward, Richard, and their power.

Edward. I wonder how our Princely Father scap't: Or whether he be scap't away, or no, From Cliffords…

Richard. I cannot ioy, vntill I be resolu'd Where our right valiant Father is become. I saw him…

Ed. Dazle mine eyes, or doe I see three Sunnes?

Rich. Three glorious Sunnes, each one a perfect Sunne, Not seperated with the racking Clouds, But seuer'd in…

Edward. 'Tis wondrous strange, The like yet neuer heard of. I thinke it cites vs (Brother) to the…

Richard. Nay, beare three Daughters: By your leaue, I speake it, You loue the Breeder better then the…

Mess. Ah, one that was a wofull looker on, When as the Noble Duke of Yorke was slaine,…

Edward. Oh speake no more, for I haue heard too much.

Richard. Say how he dy'de, for I will heare it all.

Mess. Enuironed he was with many foes, And stood against them, as the hope of Troy Against the…

Edward. Sweet Duke of Yorke, our Prop to leane vpon, Now thou art gone, wee haue no Staffe,…

Rich. I cannot weepe: for all my bodies moysture Scarse serues to quench my Furnace‑burning hart: Nor can…

Ed. His name that valiant Duke hath left with thee: His Dukedome, and his Chaire with me is…

Rich. Nay, if thou be that Princely Eagles Bird, Shew thy descent by gazing 'gainst the Sunne: For…

March. Enter Warwicke, Marquesse Mountacute, and their Army.

Warwick. How now faire Lords? What faire? What newes abroad?

Rich. Great Lord of Warwicke, if we should recompt Our balefull newes, and at each words deliuerance Stab…

Edw. O Warwicke, Warwicke, that Plantagenet Which held thee deerely, as his Soules Redemption, Is by the sterne…

War. Ten dayes ago, I drown'd these newes in teares. And now to adde more measure to your…

Ed. Where is the Duke of Norfolke, gentle Warwick? And when came George from Burgundy to England?

War. Some six miles off the Duke is with the Soldiers, And for your Brother be was lately…

Rich. 'Twas oddes belike, when valiant Warwick fled; Oft haue I heard his praises in Pursuite, But ne're…

War. Nor now my Scandall Richard, dost thou heare: For thou shalt know this strong right hand of…

Rich. I know it well Lord Warwick, blame me not, 'Tis loue I beare thy glories make me…

War. Why therefore Warwick came to seek you out, And therefore comes my Brother Mountague: Attend me Lords,…

Rich. I, now me thinks I heare great Warwick speak; Ne're may he liue to see a Sun‑shine…

Ed. Lord Warwicke, on thy shoulder will I leane, And when thou failst (as God forbid the houre)…

War. No longer Earle of March, but Duke of Yorke: The next degree, is Englands Royall Throne: For…

Rich. Then Clifford, were thy heart as hard as Steele, As thou hast shewne it flintie by thy…

Ed. Then strike vp Drums, God and S. George for vs.

Enter a Messenger.

War. How now? what newes?

Mes. The Duke of Norfolke sends you word by me, The Queene is comming with a puissant Hoast,…

War. Why then it sorts, braue Warriors, let's away.

Exeunt Omnes.

Flourish. Enter the King, the Queene, Clifford, Northum‑ and Yong Prince, with Drumme and Trumpettes.

Qu. Welcome my Lord, to this braue town of Yorke, Yonders the head of that Arch‑enemy, That sought…

K. I, as the rockes cheare them that feare their wrack, To see this sight, it irkes my…

Clif. My gracious Liege, this too much lenity And harmfull pitty must be layd aside: To whom do…

King. Full well hath Clifford plaid the Orator, Inferring arguments of mighty force: But Clifford tell me, did'st…

Qu. My Lord cheere vp your spirits, our foes are nye, And this soft courage makes your Followers…

King. Edward Plantagenet, arise a Knight, And learne this Lesson; Draw thy Sword in right.

Prin. My gracious Father, by your Kingly leaue, Ile draw it as Apparant to the Crowne, And in…

Clif. Why that is spoken like a toward Prince.

Enter a Messenger.

Mess. Royall Commanders, be in readinesse, For with a Band of thirty thousand men, Comes Warwicke backing of…

Clif. I would your Highnesse would depart the field, The Queene hath best successe when you are absent.

Qu. I good my Lord, and leaue vs to our Fortune.

King. Why, that's my fortune too, therefore Ile stay.

North. Be it with resolution then to fight.

Prin. My Royall Father, cheere these Noble Lords, And hearten those that fight in your defence: Vnsheath your…

mixed. Enter Edward, Warwicke, Richard, Clarence, Norfolke, Mountague, and Soldiers.

Edw. Now periur'd Henry, wilt thou kneel for grace? And set thy Diadem vpon my head? Or bide…

Qu. Go rate thy Minions, proud insulting Boy, Becomes it thee to be thus bold in termes, Before…

Ed. I am his King, and he should bow his knee: I was adopted Heire by his consent.

Cla. Since when, his Oath is broke: for as I heare, You that are King, though he do…

Clif. And reason too, Who should succeede the Father, but the Sonne.

Rich. Are you there Butcher? O, I cannot speake.

Clif. I Crooke‑back, here I stand to answer thee, Or any he, the proudest of thy sort.

Rich. 'Twas you that kill'd yong Rutland, was it not?

Clif. I, and old Yorke, and yet not satisfied.

Rich. For Gods sake Lords giue signall to the fight.

War. What say'st thou Henry, Wilt thou yeeld the Crowne?

Qu. Why how now long‑tongu'd Warwicke, dare (you speak? When you and I, met at S. Albons last,…

War. Then 'twas my turne to fly, and now 'tis thine:

Clif. You said so much before, and yet you fled.

War. 'Twas not your valor Clifford droue me thence.

Nor. No, nor your manhood that□durst make you stay.

Rich. Northumberland, I hold thee reuerently, Breake off the parley, for scarse I can refraine The execution of…

Clif. I slew thy Father, cal'st thou him a Child?

Rich. I like a Dastard, and a treacherous Coward, As thou didd'st kill our tender Brother Rutland, But…

King. Haue done with words (my Lords) and heare me speake.

Qu. Defie them then, or els hold close thy lips.

King. I prythee giue no limits to my Tongue, I am a King, and priuiledg'd to speake.

Clif. My Liege, the Wound that bred this meeting here, Cannot be cur'd by Words, therefore be still.

Rich. Then Executioner vnsheath thy sword: By him that made vs all, I am resolu'd, That Cliffords Manhood,…

Ed. Say Henry, shall I haue my right, or no: A thousand men haue broke their Fasts to…

War. If thou deny, their Blood vpon thy head, For Yorke in iustice put's his Armour on.

Pr. Ed. If that be right, which Warwick saies is right, There is no vvrong, but euery thing…

War. Who euer got thee, there thy Mother stands, For well I vvot, thou hast thy Mothers tongue.

Qu. But thou art neyther like thy Sire nor Damme, But like a foule mishapen Stygmaticke, Mark'd by…

Rich. Iron of Naples, hid with English gilt, Whose Father beares the Title of a King, (As if…

Ed. A wispe of straw were worth a thousand Crowns, To make this shamelesse Callet know her selfe:…

Cla. But when we saw, our Sunshine made thy Spring, And that thy Summer bred vs no increase,…

Edw. And in this resolution, I defie thee, Not willing any longer Conference, Since thou denied'st the gentle…

Qu. Stay Edward.

Ed. No wrangling Woman, wee'l no longer stay, These words will cost ten thousand liues this day.

Exeunt omnes.

Alarum. Excursions. Enter Warwicke.

War. Fore‑spent with Toile, as Runners with a Race, I lay me downe a little while to breath:…

Enter Edward running.

Ed. Smile gentle heauen, or strike vngentle death, For this world frownes, and Edwards Sunne is clowded.

War. How now my Lord, what happe? what hope of good?

Enter Clarence.

Cla. Our hap is losse, our hope but sad dispaire, Our rankes are broke, and ruine followes vs.…

Ed. Bootlesse is flight, they follow vs with Wings, And weake we are, and cannot shun pursuite.

Enter Richard.

Rich. Ah Warwicke, why hast yu withdrawn thy selfe? Thy Brothers blood the thirsty earth hath drunk, Broach'd…

War. Then let the earth be drunken with our blood: Ile kill my Horse, because I will not…

Ed. Oh Warwicke, I do bend my knee with thine, And in this vow do chaine my soule…

Rich. Brother, Giue me thy hand, and gentle Warwicke, Let me imbrace thee in my weary armes; I…

War. Away, away: Once more sweet Lords farwell.

Cla. Yet let vs altogether to our Troopes, And giue them leaue to flye, that will not stay:…

Exeunt

Excursions. Enter Richard and Clifford.

Rich. Now Clifford, I haue singled thee alone, Suppose this arme is for the Duke of Yorke, And…

Clif, Now Richard, I am with thee heere alone, This is the hand that stabb'd thy Father Yorke,…

They Fight, Warwicke comes, Clifford flies.

Rich. Nay Warwicke, single out some other Chace, For I my selfe will hunt this Wolfe to death.

Exeunt.

Alarum. Enter King Henry alone.

Hen. This battell fares like to the mornings Warre, When dying clouds contend, with growing light, What time…

Giues not the Hawthorne bush a sweeter shade To Shepheards, looking on their silly Sheepe, Then doth a…

Alarum. Enter a Sonne that hath killed his Father, at one doore: and a Father that hath killed…

Son. Ill blowes the winde that profits no body, This man whom hand to hand I slew in…

King. O pitteous spectacle! O bloody Times! Whiles Lyons Warre, and battaile for their Dennes, Poore harmlesse Lambes…

Enter Father, bearing of his Sonne.

Fa. Thou that so stoutly hath resisted me, Giue me thy Gold, if thou hast any Gold: For…

King. Wo aboue wo: greefe, more thē common greefe O that my death would stay these ruthfull deeds:…

Son. How will my Mother, for a Fathers death Take on with me, and ne're be satisfi'd?

Fa. How will my Wife, for slaughter of my Sonne, Shed seas of Teares, and ne're be satisfi'd?

King. How will the Country, for these woful chances, Mis‑thinke the King, and not be satisfied?

Son. Was euer sonne, so rew'd a Fathers death?

Fath. Was euer Father so bemoan'd his Sonne?

Hen. Was euer King so greeu'd for Subiects woe? Much is your sorrow; Mine, ten times so much.

Son. Ile beare thee hence, where I may weepe my fill.

Fath. These armes of mine shall be thy winding sheet: My heart (sweet Boy) shall be thy Sepulcher,…

Exit

Hen. Sad‑hearted‑men, much ouergone with Care; Heere sits a King, more wofull then you are.

Alarums. Excursions. Enter the Queen, the Prince, and Exeter.

Prin. Fly Father, flye: for all your Friends are fled. And Warwicke rages like a chafed Bull: Away,…

Qu. Mount you my Lord, towards Barwicke post a­ maine: Edward and Richard like a brace of Grey‑hounds,…

Exet. Away: for vengeance comes along with them. Nay, stay not to expostulate, make speed, Or else come…

Hen. Nay take me with thee, good sweet Exeter: Not that I feare to stay, but loue to…

Exeunt

A lowd alarum. Enter Clifford Wounded.

Clif. Heare burnes my Candle out; I, heere it dies, Which whiles it lasted, gaue King Henry light.…

Alarum & Retreat. Enter Edward, Warwicke, Richard, and Soldiers, Montague, & Clarence.

Ed. Now breath we Lords, good fortune bids vs pause, And smooth the frownes of War, with peacefull…

War. No, 'tis impossible he should escape: (For though before his face I speake the words) Your Brother…

Clifford grones

Rich. Whose soule is that which takes hir heauy leaue? A deadly grone, like life and deaths departing.…

Ed. And now the Battailes ended, If Friend or Foe, let him be gently vsed.

Rich. Reuoke that doome of mercy, for 'tis Clifford, Who not contented that he lopp'd the Branch In…

War. From off the gates of Yorke, fetch down yͤ head, Your Fathers head, which Ciifford placed there:…

Ed. Bring forth that fatall Schreechowle to our house, That nothing sung but death, to vs and ours:…

War. I thinke is vnderstanding is bereft: Speake Clifford, dost thou know who speakes to thee? Darke cloudy…

Rich. O would he did, and so (perhaps) he doth, 'Tis but his policy to counterfet, Because he…

Cla If so thou think'st, Vex him with eager Words.

Rich. Clifford, aske mercy, and obtaine no grace.

Ed. Clifford, repent in bootlesse penitence.

War. Clifford, deuise excuses for thy faults.

Cla. While we deuise fell Tortures for thy faults.

Rich. Thou didd'st loue Yorke, and I am son to Yorke.

Edw. Thou pittied'st Rutland, I will pitty thee.

Cla. Where's Captaine Margaret, to fence you now?

War. They mocke thee Clifford, Sweare as thou was't wont.

Ric. What, not an Oath? Nay then the world go's hard When Clifford cannot spare his Friends an…

War. I, but he's dead. Of with the Traitors head, And reare it in the place your Fathers…

Ed. Euen as thou wilt sweet Warwicke, let it bee: For in thy shoulder do I builde my…

Rich. Let me be Duke of Clarence, George of Gloster, For Glosters Dukedome is too ominous.

War. Tut, that's a foolish obseruation: Richard, be Duke of Gloster: Now to London, To see these Honors…

Exeunt

Enter Sinklo, and Humfrey, with Crosse‑bowes in their hands.

Sink. Vnder this thicke growne brake, wee'l shrowd (our selues: For through this Laund anon the Deere will…

Hum. Ile stay aboue the hill, so both may shoot.

Sink. That cannot be, the noise of thy Crosse‑bow Will scarre the Heard, and so my shoot is…

Sink. Heere comes a man, let's stay till he be past.

Enter the King with a Prayer booke.

Hen. From Scotland am I stolne euen of pure loue, To greet mine owne Land with my wishfull…

Sink. I, heere's a Deere, whose skin's a Keepers Fee: This is the quondam King; Let's seize vpon…

Hen. Let me embrace the sower Aduersaries, For Wise men say, it is the wisest course.

Hum. Why linger we? Let vs lay hands vpon him.

Sink. Forbeare a‑while, wee'l heare a little more.

Hen. My Queene and Son are gone to France for aid: And (as I heare) the great Commanding…

Hum. Say, what art thou talk'st of Kings & Queens?

King. More then I seeme, and lesse then I was born to: A man at least, for lesse…

Hum. I, but thou talk'st, as if thou wer't a King.

King. Why so I am (in Minde) and that's enough.

Hum. But if thou be a King, where is thy Crowne?

King. My Crowne is in my heart, not on my head: Not deck'd with Diamonds, and Indian stones:…

Hum. Well, if you be a King crown'd with Content, Your Crowne Content, and you, must be contented…

King. But did you neuer sweare, and breake an Oath.

Hum. No, neuer such an Oath, nor will not now.

King. Where did you dwell when I was K. of England?

Hum. Heere in this Country, where we now remaine.

King. I was annointed King at nine monthes old, My Father, and my Grandfather were Kings: And you…

Sin. No, for we were Subiects, but while you wer king

King. Why? Am I dead? Do I not breath a Man? Ah simple men, you know not what…

Sinklo. We are true Subiects to the king, King Edward.

King. So would you be againe to Henrie, If he were seated as king Edward is.

Sinklo. We charge you in Gods name & the Kings, To go with vs vnto the Officers.

King. In Gods name lead, your Kings name be obeyd, And what God will, that let your King…

Exeunt

Enter K. Edward, Gloster, Clarence, Lady Gray.

King. Brother of Gloster, at S. Albons field This Ladyes Husband, Sir Richard Grey, was slaine, His Land…

Rich. Your Highnesse shall doe well to graunt her suit: It were dishonor to deny it her.

King. It were no lesse, but yet Ile make a pawse.

Rich. Yea, is it so: I see the Lady hath a thing to graunt, Before the King will…

Clarence. Hee knowes the Game, how true hee keepes the winde?

Rich. Silence.

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

Wid. Right gracious Lord, I cannot brooke delay: May it please your Highnesse to resolue me now, And…

Rich. I Widow? then Ile warrant you all your Lands, And if what pleases him, shall pleasure you:…

Clarence. I feare her not, vnlesse she chance to fall.

Rich. God forbid that, for hee'le take vantages.

King. How many Children hast thou, Widow? tell me.

Clarence. I thinke he meanes to begge a Child of her.

Rich. Nay then whip me: hee'le rather giue her two.

Wid. Three, my most gracious Lord.

Rich. You shall haue foure, if you'le be rul'd by him.

King. 'Twere pittie they should lose their Fathers Lands.

Wid. Be pittifull, dread Lord, and graunt it then.

King. Lords giue vs leaue, Ile trye this Widowes wit.

Rich. I, good leaue haue you, for you will haue leaue, Till Youth take leaue, and leaue you…

King. Now tell me, Madame, doe you loue your Children?

Wid. I, full as dearely as I loue my selfe.

King. And would you not doe much to doe them good?

Wid. To doe them good, I would sustayne some harme.

King. Then get your Husbands Lands, to doe them good.

Wid. Therefore I came vnto your Maiestie.

King. Ile tell you how these Lands are to be got.

Wid. So shall you bind me to your Highnesse seruice.

King. What seruice wilt thou doe me, if I giue them?

Wid. What you command, that rests in me to doe.

King. But you will take exceptions to my Boone.

Wid. No, gracious Lord, except I cannot doe it.

King. I, but thou canst doe what I meane to aske.

Wid. Why then I will doe what your Grace com­ mands.

Rich. Hee plyes her hard, and much Raine weares the Marble.

Clar. As red as fire? nay then, her Wax must melt.

Wid. Why stoppes my Lord? shall I not heare my Taske?

King. An easie Taske, 'tis but to loue a King.

Wid. That's soone perform'd, because I am a Subiect.

King. Why then, thy Husbands Lands I freely giue thee.

Wid. I take my leaue with many thousand thankes.

Rich. The Match is made, shee seales it with a Cursie.

King. But stay thee, 'tis the fruits of loue I meane.

Wid. The fruits of Loue, I meane, my louing Liege.

King. I, but I feare me in another sence. What Loue, think'st thou, I sue so much to…

Wid. My loue till death, my humble thanks, my prayers, That loue which Vertue begges, and Vertue graunts.

King. No, by my troth, I did not meane such loue.

Wid. Why then you meane not, as I thought you did.

King. But now you partly may perceiue my minde.

Wid. My minde will neuer graunt what I perceiue Your Highnesse aymes at, if I ayme aright.

King. To tell thee plaine, I ayme to lye with thee.

Wid. To tell you plaine, I had rather lye in Prison.

King. Why then thou shalt not haue thy Husbands Lands.

Wid. Why then mine Honestie shall be my Dower, For by that losse, I will not purchase them.

King. Therein thou wrong'st thy Children mightily.

Wid. Herein your Highnesse wrongs both them & me: But mightie Lord, this merry inclination Accords not with…

King. I, if thou wilt say I to my request: No, if thou do'st say No to my…

Wid. Then No, my Lord: my suit is at an end.

Rich. The Widow likes him not, shee knits her Browes.

Clarence. Hee is the bluntest Wooer in Christen­ dome.

King. Her Looks doth argue her replete with Modesty, Her Words doth shew her Wit incomparable, All her…

Wid. 'Tis better said then done, my gracious Lord: I am a subiect fit to ieast withall, But…

King. Sweet Widow, by my State I sweare to thee, I speake no more then what my Soule…

Wid. And that is more then I will yeeld vnto: I know, I am too meane to be…

King. You cauill, Widow, I did meane my Queene.

Wid. 'Twill grieue your Grace, my Sonnes should call you Father.

King. No more, then when my Daughters Call thee Mother. Thou art a Widow, and thou hast some…

Rich. The Ghostly Father now hath done his Shrift.

Clarence. When hee was made a Shriuer, 'twas for shift.

King. Brothers, you muse what Chat wee two haue had.

Rich. The Widow likes it not, for shee lookes very sad.

King. You'ld thinke it strange, if I should marrie her.

Clarence. To who, my Lord?

King. Why Clarence, to my selfe.

Rich. That would be tenne dayes wonder at the least.

Clarence. That's a day longer then a Wonder lasts.

Rich. By so much is the Wonder in extremes.

King. Well, ieast on Brothers: I can tell you both, He□ suit is graunted for her Husbands Lands.

Enter a Noble man.

Nob. My gracious Lord, Henry your Foe is taken, And brought your Prisoner to your Pallace Gate.

King. See that he be conuey'd vnto the Tower: And goe wee Brothers to the man that tooke…

Exeunt.

Manet Richard.

Rich. I, Edward will vse Women honourably: Would he were wasted, Marrow, Bones, and all, That from his…

Oh monstrous fault, to harbour such a thought. Then since this Earth affoords no Ioy to me, But…

Exit.

Flourish.

Enter Lewis the French King, his Sister Bona, his Admirall, call'd Bourbon: Prince Edward, Queene Margaret, and the…

Lewis. Faire Queene of England, worthy Margaret, Sit downe with vs: it ill befits thy State, And Birth,…

Marg. No, mightie King of France: now Margaret Must strike her sayle, and learne a while to serue,…

Lewis. Why say, faire Queene, whence springs this deepe despaire?

Marg. From such a cause, as fills mine eyes with teares, And stops my tongue, while heart is…

Lewis. What ere it be, be thou still like thy selfe, And sit thee by our side. Seats…

Marg. Those gracious words Reuiue my drooping thoughts, And giue my tongue‑ty'd sorrowes leaue to speake. Now therefore…

Lewis. Renowned Queene, With patience calme the Storme, While we bethinke a meanes to breake it off.

Marg. The more wee stay, the stronger growes our Foe.

Lewis. The more I stay, the more Ile succour thee.

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

Enter Warwicke.

Lewis. What's hee approacheth boldly to our pre­ sence?

Marg. Our Earle of Warwicke, Edwards greatest Friend.

Lewis. Welcome braue Warwicke, what brings thee to France?

Hee descends. Shee ariseth.

Marg. I now begins a second Storme to rise, For this is hee that moues both Winde and…

Warw. From worthy Edward, King of Albion, My Lord and Soueraigne, and thy vowed Friend, I come (in…

Marg. If that goe forward, Henries hope is done.

Warw. And gracious Madame, Speaking to Bona. In our Kings behalfe, I am commanded, with your leaue and…

Marg. King Lewis, and Lady Bona, heare me speake, Before you answer Warwicke. His demand Springs not from…

Warw. Iniurious Margaret.

Edw. And why not Queene?

Warw. Because thy Father Henry did vsurpe, And thou no more art Prince, then shee is Queene.

Oxf. Then Warwicke disanulls great Iohn of Gaunt, Which did subdue the greatest part of Spaine; And after…

Warw. Oxford, how haps it in this smooth discourse, You told not, how Henry the Sixt hath lost…

Oxf. Why Warwicke, canst thou speak against thy Liege, Whom thou obeyd'st thirtie and six yeeres, And not…

Warw. Can Oxford, that did euer sence the right, Now buckler Falsehood with a Pedigree? For shame leaue…

Oxf. Call him my King, by whose iniurious doome My elder Brother, the Lord sAubrey Vere Was done…

Warw. And I the House of Yorke.

Lewis. Queene Margaret, Prince Edward, and Oxford, Vouchsafe at our request, to stand aside, While I vse further…

They stand aloofe.

Marg. Heauens graunt, that Warwickes wordes be­ witch him not.

Lewis. Now Warwicke, tell me euen vpon thy conscience Is Edward your true King? for I were loth…

Warw. Thereon I pawne my Credit, and mine Ho­ nor.

Lewis. But is hee gracious in the Peoples eye?

Warw. The more, that Henry was vnfortunate.

Lewis. Then further: all dissembling set aside, Tell me for truth, the measure of his Loue Vnto our…

War. Such it seemes, As may beseeme a Monarch like himselfe. My selfe haue often heard him say,…

Lewis. Now Sister, let vs heare your firme resolue.

Bona. Your graunt, or your denyall, shall be mine. Yet I confesse, that often ere this day, Speaks…

Lewis. Then Warwicke, thus: Our Sister shall be Edwards. And now forthwith shall Articles be drawne, Touching the…

Pr. Edw. To Edward, but not to the English King.

Marg. Deceitfull Warwicke, it was thy deuice, By this alliance to make void my suit: Before thy comming,…

Lewis. And still is friend to him, and Margaret. But if your Title to the Crowne be weake,…

Warw. Henry now liues in Scotland, at his ease; Where hauing nothing, nothing can he lose. And as…

Mar. Peace impudent, and shamelesse Warwicke, Proud setter vp, and puller downe of Kings, I will not hence,…

Lewis. Warwicke, this is some poste to vs, or thee.

Enter the Poste.

Post. My Lord Ambassador, These Letters are for you. Speakes to Warwick, Sent from your Brother Marquesse Montague.…

They all reade their Letters.

Oxf. I like it well, that our faire Queene and Mistris Smiles at her newes, while Warwicke frownes…

Prince Ed. Nay marke how Lewis stampes as he were I netled. I hope, all's for the best.

Lew. Warwicke, what are thy Newes? And yours, faire Queene.

Mar. Mine such, as fill my heart with vnhop'd ioyes.

War. Mine full of sorrow, and hearts discontent.

Lew. What? has your King married the Lady Grey? And now to sooth your Forgery, and his, Sends…

Mar. I told your Maiesty as much before: This proueth Edwards Loue, and Warwickes honesty.

War. King Lewis, I heere protest in sight of heauen, And by the hope I haue of heauenly…

Mar. Warwicke, These words haue turn'd my Hate, to Loue, And I forgiue, and quite forget old faults,…

War. So much his Friend, I, his vnfained Friend, That if King Lewis vouchsafe to furnish vs With…

Bona. Deere Brother, how shall Bona be reueng'd, But by thy helpe to this distressed Queene?

Mar. Renowned Prince, how shall Poore Henry liue, Vnlesse thou rescue him from foule dispaire?

Bona. My quarrel, and this English Queens, are one.

War. And mine faire Lady Bona, ioynes with yours.

Lew. And mine, with hers, and thine, and Margarets. Therefore, at last, I firmely am resolu'd You shall…

Mar. Let me giue humble thankes for all, at once.

Lew. Then Englands Messenger, returne in Poste, And tell false Edward, thy supposed King, That Lewis of France,…

Bona. Tell him, in hope hee'l proue a widower shortly, I weare the Willow Garland for his sake.

Mar. Tell him, my mourning weeds are layde aside, And I am ready to put Armor on.

War. Tell him from me, that he hath done me wrong, And therefore Ile vn‑Crowne him, er't be…

Exit Post.

Lew. But Warwicke, Thou and Oxford, with fiue thousand men Shall crosse the Seas, and bid false Edward…

War. This shall assure my constant Loyalty, That if our Queene, and this young Prince agree, Ile ioyne…

Mar. Yes, I agree, and thanke you for your Motion. Sonne Edward, she is Faire and Vertuous, Therefore…

Prin. Ed. Yes, I accept her, for she well deserues it, And heere to pledge my Vow, I…

He giues his hand to Warw.

Lew. Why stay we now? These soldiers shalbe leuied, And thou Lord Bourbon, our High Admirall Shall waft…

Exeunt. Manet Warwicke.

War. I came from Edward as Ambassador, But I returne his sworne and mortall Foe: Matter of Marriage…

Exit.

Enter Richard, Clarence, Somerset, and Mountague.

Rich. Now tell me Brother Clarence, what thinke you Of this new Marriage with the Lady Gray? Hath…

Cla. Alas, you know, tis farre from hence to France, How could he stay till Warwicke made returne?

Som. My Lords, forbeare this talke: heere comes the King.

Flourish.

Enter King Edward, Lady Grey, Penbrooke, Staf­ ford, Hastings: foure stand on one side, and foure on the…

Rich. And his well‑chosen Bride.

Clarence. I minde to tell him plainly what I thinke.

King. Now Brother of Clarence, How like you our Choyce, That you stand pensiue, as halfe malecontent?

Clarence. As well as Lewis of France, Or the Earle of Warwicke, Which are so weake of courage,…

King. Suppose they take offence without a cause: They are but Lewis and Warwicke, I am Edward, Your…

Rich. And shall haue your will, because our King: Yet hastie Marriage seldome proueth well.

King. Yea, Brother Richard, are you offended too?

Rich. Not I: no: God forbid, that I should wish them seuer'd, Whom God hath ioyn'd together: I,…

King. Setting your skornes, and your mislike aside, Tell me some reason, why the Lady Grey Should not…

Clarence. Then this is mine opinion: That King Lewis becomes your Enemie, For mocking him about the Marriage…

Rich. And Warwicke, doing what you gaue in charge, Is now dis‑honored by this new Marriage.

King. What, if both Lewis and Warwick, be appeas'd, By such inuention as I can deuise?

Mount. Yet, to haue ioyn'd with France in such alliance, Would more haue strength'ned this our Commonwealth 'Gainst…

Hast. Why, knowes not Mountague, that of it selfe, England is safe, if true within it selfe?

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

Hast. 'Tis better vsing France, then trusting France: Let vs be back'd with God, and with the Seas,…

Clar. For this one speech, Lord Hastings well deserues To haue the Heire of the Lord Hungerford.

King. I, what of that? it was my will, and graunt, And for this once, my Will shall…

Rich. And yet me thinks, your Grace hath not done well, To giue the Heire and Daughter of…

Clar. Or else you would not haue bestow'd the Heire Of the Lord Bonuill on your new Wiues…

King. Alas, poore Clarence: is it for a Wife That thou art malecontent? I will prouide thee.

Clarence. In chusing for your selfe, You shew'd your iudgement: Which being shallow, you shall giue me leaue…

King. Leaue me, or tarry, Edward will be King, And not be ty'd vnto his Brothers will.

Lady Grey. My Lords, before it pleas'd his Maiestie To rayse my state to Title of a Queene,…

King. My Loue, forbeare to fawne vpon their frownes; What danger, or what sorrow can befall thee, So…

Rich. I heare, yet say not much, but thinke the more.

Enter a Poste.

King. Now Messenger, what Letters, or what Newes from France?

Post. My Soueraigne Liege, no Letters, & few words, But such, as I (without your speciall pardon) Dare…

King. Goe too, wee pardon thee: Therefore, in briefe, tell me their words, As neere as thou canst…

Post. At my depart, these were his very words: Goe tell false Edward, the supposed King, That Lewis…

King. Is Lewis so braue? belike he thinkes me Henry. But what said Lady Bona to my Marriage?

Post. These were her words, vtt'red with mild disdaine: Tell him, in hope hee'le proue a Widower shortly,…

King. I blame not her; she could say little lesse: She had the wrong. But what said Henries…

Post. Tell him (quoth she) My mourning Weedes are done, And I am readie to put Armour on.

King. Belike she minds to play the Amazon. But what said Warwicke to these iniuries?

Post. He, more incens'd against your Maiestie, Then all the rest, discharg'd me with these words: Tell him…

King. Ha? durst the Traytor breath out so prowd words? Well, I will arme me, being thus fore‑warn'd:…

Post. I, gracious Soueraigne, They are so link'd in friendship, That yong Prince Edward marryes Warwicks Daughter.

Clarence. Belike, the elder; Clarence will haue the younger. Now Brother King farewell, and sit you fast, For…

Exit Clarence, and Somerset followes.

Rich. Not I: My thoughts ayme at a further matter: I stay not for the loue of Edward,…

King. Clarence and Somerset both gone to Warwicke? Yet am I arm'd against the worst can happen: And…

Mount. So God helpe Mountague, as hee proues true.

Hast. And Hastings, as hee fauours Edwards cause.

King. Now Brother Richard, will you stand by vs?

Rich. I, in despight of all that shall withstand you.

King. Why so: then am I sure of Victorie. Now therefore let vs hence, and lose no howre,…

Exeunt.

Enter Warwicke and Oxford in England, with French Souldiors.

Warw. Trust me, my Lord, all hitherto goes well, The common people by numbers swarme to vs. Enter…

Clar. Feare not that, my Lord.

Warw. Then gentle Clarence, welcome vnto Warwicke, And welcome Somerset: I hold it cowardize, To rest mistrustfull, where…

Exeunt.

Enter three Watchmen to guard the Kings Tent.

1. Watch. Come on my Masters, each man take his stand, The King by this, is set him…

2. Watch. What, will he not to Bed?

1. Watch. Why, no: for he hath made a solemne Vow, Neuer to lye and take his naturall…

2. Watch. To morrow then belike shall be the day, If Warwicke be so neere as men report.

3. Watch. But say, I pray, what Noble man is that, That with the King here resteth in…

1. Watch. 'Tis the Lord Hastings, the Kings chiefest friend.

3. Watch. O, is it so? but why commands the King, That his chiefe followers lodge in Townes…

2. Watch. 'Tis the more honour, because more dange­ rous.

3. Watch. I, but giue me worship, and quietnesse, I like it better then a dangerous honor. If…

1. Watch. Vnlesse our Halberds did shut vp his pas­ sage.

2. Watch. I: wherefore else guard we his Royall Tent, But to defend his Person from Night‑foes?

Enter Warwicke, Clarence, Oxford, Somerset, and French Souldiors, silent all.

Warw. This is his Tent, and see where stand his Guard; Courage my Masters: Honor now, or neuer:…

1. Watch. Who goes there?

2. Watch. Stay, or thou dyest.

Warwicke and the rest cry all, Warwicke, Warwicke, and set vpon the Guard, who flye, crying, Arme, Arme,…

The Drumme playing, and Trumpet sounding. Enter Warwicke, Somerset, and the rest, bringing the King out in his…

Som. What are they that flye there?

Warw. Richard and Hastings: let them goe, heere is the Duke.

K. Edw. The Duke? Why Warwicke, when wee parted, Thou call'dst me King.

Warw. I, but the case is alter'd. When you disgrac'd me in my Embassade, Then I degraded you…

K. Edw. Yea, Brother of Clarence, Art thou here too? Nay then I see, that Edward needs must…

Warw. Then for his minde, be Edward Englands King, Takes off his Crowne. But Henry now shall weare…

K. Ed. What Fates impose, that men must needs abide; It boots not to resist both winde and…

Exeunt.

Oxf. What now remaines my Lords for vs to do, But march to London with our Soldiers?

War. I, that's the first thing that we haue to do, To free King Henry from imprisonment, And…

exit.

Enter Riuers, and Lady Gray.

Riu. Madam, what makes you in this sodain change?

Gray. Why Brother Riuers, are you yet to learne What late misfortune is befalne King Edward?

Riu. What losse of some pitcht battell Against Warwicke?

Gray. No, but the losse of his owne Royall person.

Riu. Then is my Soueraigne slaine?

Gray. I almost slaine, for he is taken prisoner, Either betrayd by falshood of his Guard, Or by…

Riu. These Newes I must confesse are full of greefe, Yet gracious Madam, beare it as you may,…

Gray. Till then, faire hope must hinder liues decay: And I the rather waine me from dispaire For…

Riu. But Madam, Where is Warwicke then become?

Gray. I am inform'd that he comes towards London, To set the Crowne once more on Henries head,…

exeunt.

Enter Richard, Lord Hastings, and Sir William Stanley.

Rich. Now my Lord Hastings, and Sir William Stanley Leaue off to wonder why I drew you hither,…

Enter King Edward, and a Huntsman with him.

Huntsman. This way my Lord, For this way lies the Game.

King Edw. Nay this way man, See where the Huntsmen stand. Now Brother of Gloster, Lord Hastings, and…

Rich. Brother, the time and case, requireth hast, Your horse stands ready at the Parke‑corner.

King Ed. But whether shall we then?

Hast. To Lyn my Lord, And shipt from thence to Flanders.

Rich. Wel guest beleeue me, for that was my meaning

K. Ed. Stanley, I will requite thy forwardnesse.

Rich. But wherefore stay we? 'tis no time to talke.

K. Ed. Huntsman, what say'st thou? Wilt thou go along?

Hunts. Better do so, then tarry and be hang'd.

Rich. Come then away, lets ha no more adoo.

K. Ed. Bishop farwell, Sheeld thee from Warwickes frowne, And pray that I may re‑possesse the Crowne.

exeunt

Flourish. Enter King Henry the sixt, Clarence, Warwicke, Somerset, young Henry, Oxford, Mountague, and Lieutenant.

K. Hen. M. Lieutenant, now that God and Friends Haue shaken Edward from the Regall seate, And turn'd…

Lieu. Subiects may challenge nothing of their Sou'rains But, if an humble prayer may preuaile, I then craue…

K. Hen. For what, Lieutenant? For well vsing me? Nay, be thou sure, Ile well requite thy kindnesse.…

Warw. Your Grace hath still beene fam'd for vertuous, And now may seeme as wise as vertuous, By…

Clar. No Warwicke, thou art worthy of the sway, To whom the Heau'ns in thy Natiuitie, Adiudg'd an…

Warw. And I chuse Clarence onely for Protector.

King. Warwick and Clarence, giue me both your Hands: Now ioyne your Hands, & with your Hands your…

Warw. What answeres Clarence to his Soueraignes will?

Clar. That he consents, if Warwicke yeeld consent, For on thy fortune I repose my selfe.

Warw. Why then, though loth, yet must I be content: Wee'le yoake together, like a double shadow To…

Clar. What else? and that Succession be determined.

Warw. I, therein Clarence shall not want his part.

King. But with the first, of all your chiefe affaires, Let me entreat (for I command no more)…

Clar. It shall bee done, my Soueraigne, with all speede.

King. My Lord of Somerset, what Youth is that, Of whom you seeme to haue so tender care?

Somers. My Liege, it is young Henry, Earle of Rich­ mond.

King. Come hither, Englands Hope: Layes his Hand on his Head. If secret Powers suggest but truth To…

Enter a Poste.

Warw. What newes, my friend?

Poste. That Edward is escaped from your Brother, And fled (as hee heares since) to Burgundie.

Warw. Vnsauorie newes: but how made he escape?

Poste. He was conuey'd by Richard, Duke of Gloster, And the Lord Hastings, who attended him In secret…

Warw. My Brother was too carelesse of his charge. But let vs hence, my Soueraigne, to prouide A…

Exeunt.

Manet Somerset, Richmond, and Oxford.

Som. My Lord, I like not of this flight of Edwards: For doubtlesse, Burgundie will yeeld him helpe,…

Oxf. I: for if Edward re‑possesse the Crowne, 'Tis like that Richmond, with the rest, shall downe.

Som. It shall be so: he shall to Brittanie. Come therefore, let's about it speedily.

Exeunt.

Flourish. Enter Edward, Richard, Hastings, and Souldiers.

Edw. Now Brother Richard, Lord Hastings, and the rest, Yet thus farre Fortune maketh vs amends, And sayes,…

Rich. The Gates made fast? Brother, I like not this. For many men that stumble at the Threshold,…

Edw. Tush man, aboadments must not now affright vs: By faire or foule meanes we must enter in,…

Hast. My Liege, Ile knocke once more, to summon them.

Enter on the Walls, the Maior of Yorke, and his Brethren.

Maior. My Lords, We were fore‑warned of your comming, And shut the Gates, for safetie of our selues;…

Edw. But, Master Maior, if Henry be your King, Yet Edward, at the least, is Duke of Yorke.

Maior. True, my good Lord, I know you for no lesse.

Edw. Why, and I challenge nothing but my Dukedome, As being well content with that alone.

Rich. But when the Fox hath once got in his Nose, Hee'le soone finde meanes to make the…

Hast. Why, Master Maior, why stand you in a doubt? Open the Gates, we are King Henries friends.

Maior. I, say you so? the Gates shall then be opened.

He descends.

Rich. A wise stout Captaine, and soone perswaded.

Hast. The good old man would faine that all were wel, So 'twere not long of him: but…

Enter the Maior, and two Aldermen.

Edw. So, Master Maior: these Gates must not be shut, But in the Night, or in the time…

March. Enter Mountgomerie, with Drumme and Souldiers.

Rich. Brother, this is Sir Iohn Mountgomerie, Our trustie friend, vnlesse I be deceiu'd.

Edw. Welcome Sir Iohn: but why come you in Armes?

Mount. To helpe King Edward in his time of storme, As euery loyall Subiect ought to doe.

Edw. Thankes good Mountgomerie: But we now forget our Title to the Crowne, And onely clayme our Dukedome,…

Mount. Then fare you well, for I will hence againe, I came to serue a King, and not…

The Drumme begins to march.

Edw. Nay stay, Sir Iohn, a while, and wee'le debate By what safe meanes the Crowne may be…

Mount. What talke you of debating? in few words, If you'le not here proclaime your selfe our King,…

Rich. Why Brother, wherefore stand you on nice points?

Edw. When wee grow stronger, Then wee'le make our Clayme: Till then, 'tis wisdome to conceale our meaning.

Hast. Away with scrupulous Wit, now Armes must rule.

Rich. And fearelesse minds clyme soonest vnto Crowns. Brother, we will proclaime you out of hand, The bruit…

Edw. Then be it as you will: for 'tis my right, And Henry but vsurpes the Diademe.

Mount. I, now my Soueraigne speaketh like himselfe, And now will I be Edwards Champion.

Hast. Sound Trumpet, Edward shal be here proclaim'd: Come, fellow Souldior, make thou proclamation.

Flourish. Sound.

Soul. Edward the Fourth, by the Grace of Cod, King of England and France, and Lord of Ireland,…

Mount. And whosoe're gainsays King Edwards right, By this I challenge him to single fight.

Throwes downe his Gauntlet.

All. Long liue Edward the Fourth.

Edw. Thankes braue Montgomery, And thankes vnto you all: If fortune serue me, Ile requite this kindnesse. Now…

Exeunt.

Flourish. Enter the King, Warwicke, Mountague, Clarence, Oxford, and Somerset.

War. What counsaile, Lords? Edward from Belgia, With hastie Germanes, and blunt Hollanders, Hath pass'd in safetie through…

King. Let's leuie men, and beat him backe againe.

Clar. A little fire is quickly trodden out, Which being suffer'd, Riuers cannot quench.

War. In Warwickshire I haue true‑hearted friends, Not mutinous in peace, yet bold in Warre, Those will I…

King. Farewell my Hector, and my Troyes true hope.

Clar. In signe of truth, I kisse your Highnesse Hand.

King. Well‑minded Clarence, be thou fortunate.

Mount. Comfort, my Lord, and so I take my leaue.

Oxf. And thus I seale my truth, and bid adieu.

King. Sweet Oxford, and my louing Mountague, And all at once, once more a happy farewell.

War. Farewell, sweet Lords, let's meet at Couentry.

Exeunt.

King. Here at the Pallace will I rest a while. Cousin of Exeter, what thinks your Lordship? Me…

Exet. The doubt is, that he will seduce the rest.

King. That's not my feare, my meed hath got me fame: I haue not stopt mine eares to…

Shout within, A Lancaster, A Lancaster.

Exet. Hearke, hearke, my Lord, what Shouts are these?

Enter Edward and his Souldiers.

Edw. Seize on the shamefac'd Henry, beare him hence, And once agane proclaime vs King of England. You…

Rich. Away betimes before his forces ioyne, And take the great‑growne Traytor vnawares: Braue Warriors, march amaine towards…

Exeunt.

Enter Warwicke, the Maior of Couentry, two Messengers and others vpon the Walls.

War. Where is the Post that came from valiant Oxford? How farre hence is thy Lord, mine honest…

Mess. 1. By this at Dunsmore, marching hitherward.

War. How farre off is our Brother Mountague? Where is the Post that came from Mountague?

Mess. 2. By this at Daintry, with a puissant troope.

Enter Someruile.

War. Say Someruile, what sayes my louing Sonne? And by thy guesse, how nigh is Clarence now?

Someru. At Southam I did leaue him with his forces, And doe expect him here some two howres…

War. Then Clarence is at hand, I heare his Drumme.

Someru. It is not his, my Lord, here Southam lyes: The Drum your Honor heares, marcheth from Warwicke.

War. Who should that be? belike vnlook'd for friends.

Someru. They are at hand, and you shall quickly know.

March. Flourish. Enter Edward, Richard, and Souldiers.

Edw. Goe, Trumpet, to the Walls, and sound a Parle.

Rich. See how the surly Warwicke mans the Wall.

War. Oh vnbid spight, is sportfull Edward come? Where slept our Scouts, or how are they seduc'd, That…

Edw. Now Warwicke, wilt thou ope the Citie Gates, Speake gentle words, and humbly bend thy Knee, Call…

War. Nay rather, wilt thou draw thy forces hence, Confesse who set thee vp, and pluckt thee downe,…

Rich. I thought at least he would haue said the King, Or did he makes the Ieast against…

War. Is not a Dukedome, Sir, a goodly gift?

Rich. I, by my faith, for a poore Earle to giue, Ile doe thee seruice for so good…

War. 'Twas I that gaue the Kingdome to thy Bro­ ther.

Edw. Why then 'tis mine, if but by Warwickes gift.

War. Thou art no Atlas for so great a Weight: And Weakeling, Warwicke takes his gift againe, And…

Edw. But Warwickes King is Edwards Prisoner: And gallant Warwicke, doe but answer this, What is the Body,…

Rich. Alas, that Warwicke had no more fore‑cast, But whiles he thought to steale the single Ten, The…

Edw. 'Tis euen so, yet you are Warwicke still.

Rich. Come Warwicke, Take the time, kneele downe, kneele downe: Nay when? strike now, or else the Iron…

War. I had rather chop this Hand off at a blow, And with the other, fling it at…

Edw. Sayle how thou canst, Haue Winde and Tyde thy friend, This Hand, fast wound about thy coale‑black…

Enter Oxford, with Drumme and Colours.

War. Oh chearefull Colours, see where Oxford comes.

Oxf. Oxford, Oxford, for Lancaster.

Rich. The Gates are open, let vs enter too.

Edw. So other foes may set vpon our backs. Stand we in good array: for they no doubt…

War. Oh welcome Oxford, for we want thy helpe.

Enter Mountague, with Drumme and Colours.

Mount. Mountague, Mountague, for Lancaster.

Rich. Thou and thy Brother both shall buy this Treason Euen with the dearest blood your bodies beare.

Edw. The harder matcht, the greater Victorie, My minde presageth happy gaine, and Conquest.

Enter Somerset, with Drumme and Colours.

Som. Somerset, Somerset, for Lancaster.

Rich. Two of thy Name, both Dukes of Somerset, Haue sold their Liues vnto the House of Yorke,…

Enter Clarence, with Drumme and Colours.

War. And loe, where George of Clarence sweepes along, Of force enough to bid his Brother Battaile: With…

Clar. Father of Warwick, know you what this meanes? Looke here, I throw my infamie at thee: I…

Edw. Now welcome more, and ten times more belou'd, Then if thou neuer hadst deseru'd our hate.

Rich. Welcome good Clarence, this is Brother‑like.

Warw. Oh passing Traytor, periur'd and vniust.

Edw. What Warwicke, Wilt thou leaue the Towne, and fight? Or shall we beat the Stones about thine…

Warw. Alas, I am not coop'd here for defence: I will away towards Barnet presently, And bid thee…

Edw. Yes Warwicke, Edward dares, and leads the way: Lords to the field: Saint George, and Victorie.

Exeunt.

March. Warwicke and his companie followes.

Alarum, and Excursions. Enter Edward bringing forth Warwicke wounded.

Edw. So, lye thou there: dye thou, and dye our feare, For Warwicke was a Bugge that fear'd…

Exit.

Warw. Ah, who is nigh? come to me, friend, or foe, And tell me who is Victor, Yorke,…

Enter Oxford and Somerset.

Som. Ah Warwicke, Warwicke, wert thou as we are, We might recouer all our Losse againe: The Queene…

Warw. Why then I would not flye. Ah Mountague, If thou be there, sweet Brother, take my Hand,…

Som. Ah Warwicke, Mountague hath breath'd his last, And to the latest gaspe, cry'd out for Warwicke: And…

Warw. Sweet rest his Soule: Flye Lords, and saue your selues, For Warwicke bids you all farewell, to…

Oxf. Away, away, to meet the Queenes great power.

Here they beare away his Body.

Exeunt.

Flourish. Enter King Edward in triumph, with Richard, Clarence, and the rest.

King. Thus farre our fortune keepes an vpward course, And we are grac'd with wreaths of Victorie: But…

Clar. A little gale will soone disperse that Cloud, And blow it to the Source from whence it…

Rich. The Queene is valued thirtie thousand strong, And Somerset, with Oxford, fled to her: If she haue…

King. We are aduertis'd by our louing friends, That they doe hold their course toward Tewksbury. We hauing…

Exeunt.

Flourish. March. Enter the Queene, young Edward, Somerset, Oxford, and Souldiers.

Qu. Great Lords, wise men ne'r sit and waile their losse, But chearely seeke how to redresse their…

Prince. Me thinkes a Woman of this valiant Spirit, Should, if a Coward heard her speake these words,…

Oxf. Women and Children of so high a courage, And Warriors faint, why 'twere perpetuall shame. Oh braue…

Som. And he that will not fight for such a hope, Goe home to Bed, and like the…

Qu. Thankes gentle Somerset, sweet Oxford thankes.

Prince. And take his thankes, that yet hath nothing else.

Enter a Messenger.

Mess. Prepare you Lords, for Edward is at hand, Readie to fight: therefore be resolute.

Oxf. I thought no lesse: it is his Policie, To haste thus fast, to finde vs vnprouided.

Som. But hee's deceiu'd, we are in readinesse.

Qu. This cheares my heart, to see your forwardnesse.

Oxf. Here pitch our Battaile, hence we will not budge.

Flourish, and march. Enter Edward, Richard, Clarence, and Souldiers.