The Tragedy of Richard the Third

The Tragedy of Richard the Third: with the Landing of Earle Richmond, and the Battell at Bosworth field.

Actus Primus. Scœna Prima.

Enter Richard Duke of Gloster, solus.

NOw is the Winter of our Discontent, Made glorious Summer by this Son of Yorke: And all the…

Enter Clarence, and Brakenbury, guarded. Brother, good day: What meanes this armed guard That waites vpon your Grace?

Cla. His Maiesty tendring my persons safety, Hath appointed this Conduct, to conuey me to th'Tower

Rich. Vpon what cause?

Cla. Because my name is George.

Rich. Alacke my Lord, that fault is none of yours: He should for that commit your Godfathers. O…

Cla. Yea Richard, when I know: but I protest As yet I do not: But as I can…

Rich. Why this it is, when men are rul'd by Women: 'Tis not the King that sends you…

Cla. By heauen, I thinke there is no man secure But the Queenes Kindred, and night‑walking Heralds, That…

Rich. Humbly complaining to her Deitie, Got my Lord Chamberlaine to her libertie. Ile tell you what, I…

Bra. I beseech your Graces both to pardon me, His Maiesty hath straightly giuen in charge, That no…

Rich. Euen so, and please your Worship Brakenbury, You may partake of any thing we say: We speake…

Bra. With this (my Lord) my selfe haue nought to doo.

Rich. Naught to do with Mistris Shore? I tell thee Fellow, he that doth naught with her (Excepting…

Bra. What one, my Lord?

Rich. Her Husband Knaue, would'st thou betray me?

Bra. I do beseech your Grace To pardon me, and withall forbeare Your Conferenee with the Noble Duke.

Cla. We know thy charge Brakenbury, and wil obey.

Rich. We are the Queenes abiects, and must obey. Brother farewell, I will vnto the King, And whatsoe're…

Cla. I know it pleaseth neither of vs well.

Rich. Well, your imprisonment shall not be long, I will deliuer you, or else lye for you: Meane…

Cla. I must perforce: Farewell.

Exit Clar.

Rich. Go treade the path that thou shalt ne're return: Simple plaine Clarence, I do loue thee so,…

Enter Lord Hastings.

Hast. Good time of day vnto my gracious Lord.

Rich. As much vnto my good Lord Chamberlaine: Well are you welcome to this open Ayre, How hath…

Hast. With patience (Noble Lord) as prisoners must: But I shall liue (my Lord) to giue them thankes…

Rich. No doubt, no doubt, and so shall Clarence too, For they that were your Enemies, are his,…

Hast. More pitty, that the Eagles should be mew'd, Whiles Kites and Buzards play at liberty.

Rich. What newes abroad?

Hast. No newes so bad abroad, as this at home: The King is sickly, weake, and melancholly, And…

Rich. Now by S. Iohn, that Newes is bad indeed. O he hath kept an euill Diet long,…

Hast. He is.

Rich. Go you before, and I will follow you. Exit Hastings. He cannot liue I hope, and must…

Exit

Scena Secunda.

Enter the Coarse of Henrie the sixt with Halberds to guard it, Lady Anne being the Mourner.

Anne. Set downe, set downe your honourable load, If Honor may be shrowded in a Herse; Whil'st I…

Enter Richard Duke of Gloster.

Rich. Stay you that beare the Coarse, & set it down.

An. What blacke Magitian coniures vp this Fiend, To stop deuoted charitable deeds?

Rich. Villaines set downe the Coarse, or by S. Paul, Ile make a Coarse of him that disobeyes.

Gen. My Lord stand backe, and let the Coffin passe.

Rich. Vnmanner'd Dogge, Stand'st thou when I commaund: Aduance thy Halbert higher then my brest, Or by S.…

Anne. What do you tremble? are you all affraid? Alas, I blame you not, for you are Mortall,…

Rich. Sweet Saint, for Charity, be not so curst.

An. Foule Diuell, For Gods sake hence, and trouble vs not, For thou hast made the happy earth…

Rich. Lady, you know no Rules of Charity, Which renders good for bad, Blessings for Curses.

An. Villaine, thou know'st nor law of God nor Man, No Beast so fierce, but knowes some touch…

Rich. But I know none, and therefore am no Beast.

An. O wonderfull, when diuels tell the truth!

Rich. More wonderfull, when Angels are so angry: Vouchsafe (diuine perfection of a Woman) Of these supposed Crimes,…

An. Vouchsafe (defus'd infection of man) Of these knowne euils, but to giue me leaue By circumstance, to…

Rich. Fairer then tongue can name thee, let me haue Some patient leysure to excuse my selfe.

An. Fouler then heart can thinke thee, Thou can'st make no excuse currant, But to hang thy selfe.

Rich. By such dispaire, I should accuse my selfe.

An. And by dispairing shalt thou stand excused, For doing worthy Vengeance on thy selfe, That did'st vnworthy…

Rich. Say that I slew them not.

An. Then say they were not slaine: But dead they are, and diuellish slaue by thee.

Rich. I did not kill your Husband.

An. Why then he is aliue.

Rich. Nay, he is dead, and slaine by Edwards hands.

An. In thy foule throat thou Ly'st, Queene Margaret saw Thy murd'rous Faulchion smoaking in his blood: The…

Rich. I was prouoked by her sland'rous tongue, That laid their guilt, vpon my guiltlesse Shoulders.

An. Thou was't prouoked by thy bloody minde, That neuer dream'st on ought but Butcheries: Did'st thou not…

Rich. I graunt ye.

An. Do'st grant me Hedge‑hogge, Then God graunt me too Thou may'st be damned for that wicked deede,…

Rich. The better for the King of heauen that hath him.

An. He is in heauen, where thou shalt neuer come.

Rich. Let him thanke me, that holpe to send him thi­ ther: For he was fitter for that…

An. And thou vnfit for any place, but hell.

Rich. Yes one place else, if you will heare me name it.

An. Some dungeon.

Rich. Your Bed‑chamber.

An. Ill rest betide the chamber where thou lyest.

Rich. So will it Madam, till I lye with you.

An. I hope so.

Rich. I know so. But gentle Lady Anne, To leaue this keene encounter of our wittes, And fall…

An. Thou was't the cause, and most accurst effect.

Rich. Your beauty was the cause of that effect: Your beauty, that did haunt me in my sleepe,…

An. If I thought that, I tell thee Homicide, These Nailes should rent that beauty from my Cheekes.

Rich. These eyes could not endure yt beauties wrack, You should not blemish it, if I stood by;…

An. Blacke night ore‑shade thy day, & death thy life.

Rich. Curse not thy selfe faire Creature, Thou art both.

An. I would I were, to be reueng'd on thee.

Rich. It is a quarrell most vnnaturall, To be reueng'd on him that loueth thee.

An. It is a quarrell iust and reasonable, To be reueng'd on him that kill'd my Husband.

Rich. He that bereft the Lady of thy Husband, Did it to helpe thee to a better Husband.

An. His better doth not breath vpon the earth.

Rich. He liues, that loues thee better then he could.

An. Name him.

Rich. Plantagenet.

An. Why that was he.

Rich. The selfesame name, but one of better Nature.

An. Where is he?

Rich. Heere: Spits at him. Why dost thou spit at me.

An. Would it were mortall poyson, for thy sake.

Rich. Neuer came poyson from so sweet a place.

An. Neuer hung poyson on a fowler Toade. Out of my sight, thou dost infect mine eyes.

Rich. Thine eyes (sweet Lady) haue infected mine.

An. Would they were Basiliskes, to strike thee dead.

Rich. I would they were, that I might dye at once: For now they kill me with a…

An. Arise Dissembler, though I wish thy death, I will not be thy Executioner.

Rich. Then bid me kill my selfe, and I will do it.

An. I haue already.

Rich. That was in thy rage: Speake it againe, and euen with the word, This hand, which for…

An. I would I knew thy heart.

Rich. 'Tis figur'd in my tongue.

An. I feare me, both are false.

Rich. Then neuer Man was true.

An. Well, well, put vp your Sword.

Rich. Say then my Peace is made.

An. That shalt thou know heereafter.

Rich. But shall I liue in hope.

An. All men I hope liue so. Vouchsafe to weare this Ring.

Rich. Looke how my Ring incompasseth thy Finger, Euen so thy Brest incloseth my poore heart: Weare both…

An. What is it?

Rich. That it may please you leaue these sad designes, To him that hath most cause to be…

An. With all my heart, and much it ioyes me too, To see you are become so penitent.…

Rich. Bid me farwell.

An. 'Tis more then you deserue: But since you teach me how to flatter you, Imagine I haue…

Exit two with Anne.

Gent. Towards Chertsey, Noble Lord?

Rich. No: to White Friars, there attend my comming Exit Coarse Was euer woman in this humour woo'd?…

exit.

Scena Tertia.

Enter the Queene Mother, Lord Riuers, and Lord Gray.

Riu. Haue patience Madam, ther's no doubt his Maiesty Will soone recouer his accustom'd health.

Gray. In that you brooke it ill, it makes him worse, Therefore for Gods sake entertaine good comfort,…

Qu. If he were dead, what would betide on me? If he were dead, what would betide on…

Gray. No other harme, but losse of such a Lord.

Qu. The losse of such a Lord, includes all harmes.

Gray. The Heauens haue blest you with a goodly Son, To be your Comforter, when he is gone.

Qu. Ah! he is yong; and his minority Is put vnto the trust of Richard Glouster, A man…

Riu. Is it concluded he shall be Protector?

Qu. It is determin'd, not concluded yet; But so it must be, if the King miscarry.

Enter Buckingham and Derby.

Gray. Here comes the Lord of Buckingham & Derby.

Buc. Good time of day vnto your Royall Grace.

Der. God make your Maiesty ioyful, as you haue bin

Qu. The Countesse Richmond, good my L. of Derby. To your good prayer, will scarsely say, Amen. Yet…

Der. I do beseech you, either not beleeue The enuious slanders of her false Accusers: Or if she…

Qu. Saw you the King today my Lord of Derby.

Der. But now the Duke of Buckingham and I, Are come from visiting his Maiesty.

Que. What likelyhood of his amendment Lords.

Buc. Madam good hope, his Grace speaks chearfully.

Qu. God grant him health, did you confer with him?

Buc. I Madam, he desires to make attonement Betweene the Duke of Glouster, and your Brothers, And betweene…

Qu. Would all were well, but that will neuer be, I feare our happinesse is at the height.

Enter Richard.

Rich. They do me wrong, and I will not indure it, Who is it that complaines vnto the…

Grey. To who in all this presence speaks your Grace?

Rich. To thee, that hast nor Honesty, nor Grace: When haue I iniur'd thee? When done thee wrong?…

Qu. Brother of Glouster, you mistake the matter: The King on his owne Royall disposition, (And not prouok'd…

Rich. I cannot tell, the world is growne so bad, That Wrens make prey, where Eagles dare not…

Qu. Come, come, we know your meaning Brother (Gloster You enuy my aduancement, and my friends: God grant…

Rich. Meane time, God grants that I haue need of you. Our Brother is imprison'd by your meanes,…

Qu. By him that rais'd me to this carefull height, From that contented hap which I inioy'd, I…

Rich! You may deny that you were not the meane Of my Lord Hastings late imprisonment.

Riu. She may my Lord, for⸺

Rich. She may Lord Riuers, why who knowes not so? She may do more sir then denying that:…

Riu. What marry may she?

Ric. What marrie may she? Marrie with a King, A Batcheller, and a handsome stripling too, I wis…

Qu. My Lord of Glouster, I haue too long borne Your blunt vpbraidings, and your bitter scoffes: By…

Enter old Queen Margaret.

Mar. And lesned be that small, God I beseech him, Thy honor, state, and seate, is due to…

Rich. What? threat you me with telling of the King? I will auouch't in presence of the King:…

Margaret. Out Diuell, I do remember them too well: Thou killd'st my Husband Henrie in the Tower, And…

Rich. Ere you were Queene, I, or your Husband King: I was a packe‑horse in his great affaires:…

Margaret. I and much better Blood Then his, or thine.

Rich. In all which time, you and your Husband Grey Were factious, for the House of Lancaster; And…

Q. M. A murth'rous Villaine, and so still thou art.

Rich. Poore Clarence did forsake his Father Warwicke, I, and forswore himselfe (which Iesu pardon.)

Q. M. Which God reuenge.

Rich. To fight on Edwards partie, for the Crowne, And for his meede, poore Lord, he is mewed…

Q. M. High thee to Hell for shame, & leaue this World Thou Cacodemon, there thy Kingdome is.

Riu. My Lord of Gloster: in those busie dayes, Which here you vrge, to proue vs Enemies, We…

Rich. If I should be? I had rather be a Pedler: Farre be it from my heart, the…

Qu. As little ioy (my Lord) as you suppose You should enioy, were you this Countries King, As…

Q. M. A little ioy enioyes the Queene thereof, For I am shee, and altogether ioylesse: I can…

Rich. Foule wrinckled Witch, what mak'st thou in my (sight?

Q. M. But repetition of what thou hast marr'd, That will I make, before I let thee goe.

Rich. Wert thou not banished, on paine of death?

Q. M. I was: but I doe find more paine in banishment, Then death can yeeld me here,…

Rich. The Curse my □□□le Father layd on thee, When thou didst Crown his Warlike Brows with Paper,…

Qu. So iust is God, to right the innocent.

Hast. O, 'twas the foulest deed to slay that Babe, And the most mercilesse, that ere was heard…

Riu. Tyrants themselues wept when it was reported.

Dors. No man but prophecied reuenge for it.

Buck. Northumberland, then present, wept to see it.

Q. M. What? were you snarling all before I came, Ready to catch each other by the throat,…

Rich. Haue done thy Charme, yu hateful wither'd Hagge.

Q. M. And leaue out thee? stay Dog, for yu shalt heare me. If Heauen haue any grieuous…

Rich. Margaret.

Q. M. Richard.

Rich. Ha.

Q. M. I call thee not.

Rich. I cry thee mercie then: for I did thinke, That thou hadst call'd me all these bitter…

Q. M. Why so I did, but look'd for no reply. Oh let me make the Period to…

Rich. 'Tis done by me, and ends in Margaret.

Qu. Thus haue you breath'd your Curse against your self.

Q. M. Poore painted Queen, vain flourish of my fortune, Why strew'st thou Sugar on that Bottel'd Spider,…

Hast. False boding Woman, end thy frantick Curse, Least to thy harme, thou moue our patience.

Q. M. Foule shame vpon you, you haue all mou'd mine.

Ri. Were you wel seru'd, you would be taught your duty.

Q. M. To serue me well, you all should do me duty, Teach me to be your Queene,…

Dors. Dispute not with her, shee is lunaticke.

Q. M. Peace Master Marquesse, you are malapert, Your fire‑new stampe of Honor is scarce currant. O that…

Rich. Good counsaile marry, learne it, learne it Mar‑ quesse.

Dor. It touches you my Lord, as much as me.

Rich. I, and much more: but I was borne so high: Our ayerie buildeth in the Cedars top,…

Mar. And turnes the Sun to shade: alas, alas, Witnesse my Sonne, now in the shade of death,…

Buc. Peace, peace for shame: If not, for Charity.

Mar. Vrge neither charity, nor shame to me: Vncharitably with me haue you dealt, And shamefully my hopes…

Buc. Haue done, haue done.

Mar. O Princely Buckingham, Ile kisse thy hand, In signe of League and amity with thee: Now faire…

Buc. Nor no one heere: for Curses neuer passe The lips of those that breath them in the…

Mar. I will not thinke but they ascend the sky, And there awake Gods gentle sleeping peace. O…

Rich. What doth she say, my Lord of Buckingham.

Buc. Nothing that I respect my gracious Lord.

Mar. What dost thou scorne me For my gentle counsell? And sooth the diuell that I warne thee…

Exit.

Buc. My haire doth stand an end to heare her curses.

Riu. And so doth mine, I muse why she's at libertie.

Rich. I cannot blame her, by Gods holy mother, She hath had too much wrong, and I repent…

Mar. I neuer did her any to my knowledge.

Rich. Yet you haue all the vantage of her wrong: I was too hot, to do somebody good,…

Riu. A vertuous, and a Christian‑like conclusion To pray for them that haue done scath to vs.

Rich. So do I euer, being well aduis'd. Speakes to himselfe. For had I curst now, I had…

Enter Catesby.

Cates. Madam, his Maiesty doth call for you, And for your Grace, and yours my gracious Lord.

Qu. Catesby I come, Lords will you go with mee.

Riu. We wait vpon your Grace.

Exeunt all but Gloster.

Rich. I do the wrong, and first begin to brawle. The secret Mischeefes that I set abroach, I…

Vil. We are my Lord, and come to haue the Warrant, That we may be admitted where he…

Ric. Well thought vpon, I haue it heare about me: When you haue done, repayre to Crosby place;…

Vil. Tut, tut, my Lord, we will not stand to prate, Talkers are no good dooers, be assur'd:…

Rich. Your eyes drop Mill‑stones, when Fooles eyes fall Teares: I like you Lads, about your businesse straight.…

Vil. We will my Noble Lord.

Scena Quarta.

Enter Clarence and Keeper.

Keep. Why lookes your Grace so heauily to day.

Cla. 0, I haue past a miserable night, So full of fearefull Dreames, of vgly sights, That as…

Keep. What was your dream my Lord, I pray you tel me

Cla. Me thoughts that I had broken from the Tower, And was embark'd to crosse to Burgundy, And…

Keep. Had you such leysure in the time of death To gaze vpon these secrets of the deepe?

Cla. Me thought I had, and often did I striue To yeeld the Ghost: but still the enuious…

Keep. Awak'd you not in this sore Agony?

Clar. No, no, my Dreame was lengthen'd after life. O then, began the Tempest to my Soule. I…

Keep. No maruell Lord, though it affrighted you, I am affraid (me thinkes) to heare you tell it.

Cla. Ah Keeper, Keeper, I haue done these things (That now giue euidence against my Soule) For Edwards…

Keep. I will my Lord, God giue your Grace good rest.

Enter Brakenbury the Lieutenant.

Bra. Sorrow breakes Seasons, and reposing houres, Makes the Night Morning, and the Noon‑tide night: Princes haue but…

Enter two Murtherers.

1. Mur. Ho, who's heere?

Bra. What would'st thou Fellow? And how camm'st thou hither.

2. Mur. I would speak with Clarence, and I came hi­ ther on my Legges.

Bra. What so breefe?

1. 'Tis better (Sir) then to be tedious: Let him see our Commission, and talke no more.

Reads

Bra. I am in this, commanded to deliuer The Noble Duke of Clarence to your hands. I will…

Exit.

1 You may sir, 'tis a point of wisedome: Far you well.

2 What, shall we stab him as he sleepes.

1 No: hee'l say 'twas done cowardly, when he wakes

2 Why he shall neuer wake, vntill the great Iudge­ ment day.

1 Why then hee'l say, we stab'd him sleeping.

2 The vrging of that word Iudgement, hath bred a kinde of remorse in me.

1 What? art thou affraid?

2 Not to kill him, hauing a Warrant, But to be damn'd for killing him, from the which…

1 I thought thou had'st bin resolute.

2 So I am, to let him liue.

1 Ile backe to the Duke of Glouster, and tell him so.

2 Nay, I prythee stay a little: I hope this passionate humor of mine, will change, It was…

1 How do'st thou feele thy selfe now?

2 Some certaine dregges of conscience are yet with­ in mee.

1 Remember our Reward, when the deed's done.

2 Come, he dies: I had forgot the Reward.

1 Where's thy conscience now.

2 O, in the Duke of Glousters purse.

1 When hee opens his purse to giue vs our Reward, thy Conscience flyes out.

2 'Tis no matter, let it goe: There's few or none will entertaine it.

1 What if it come to thee againe?

2 Ile not meddle with it, it makes a man a Coward: A man cannot steale, but it…

1 'Tis euen now at my elbow, perswading me not to kill the Dkue.

2 Take the diuell in thy minde, and beleeue him not: He would insinuate with thee but to…

1 I am strong fram'd, he cannot preuaile with me.

2 Spoke like a tall man, that respects thy reputation. Come, shall we fall to worke?

1 Take him on the Costard, with the hiltes of thy Sword, and then throw him into the…

2 O excellent deuice; and make a sop of him.

1 Soft, he wakes.

2 Strike.

1 No, wee'l reason with him.

Cla. Where art thou Keeper? Giue me a cup of wine.

2 You shall haue Wine enough my Lord anon.

Cla. In Gods name, what art thou?

1 A man, as you are.

Cla. But not as I am Royall.

1 Nor you as we are, Loyall.

Cla. Thy voice is Thunder, but thy looks are humble.

1 My voice is now the Kings, my lookes mine owne.

Cla. How darkly, and how deadly dost thou speake? Your eyes do menace me: why looke you pale?…

2 To, to, to⸺

Cla. To murther me?

Both. I, I.

Cla. You scarsely haue the hearts to tell me so, And therefore cannot haue the hearts to do…

1 Offended vs you haue not, but the King.

Cla. 1 shall be reconcil'd to him againe.

2 Neuer my Lord, therefore prepare to dye.

Cla. Are you drawne forth among a world of men To slay the innocent? What is my offence?…

1 What we will do, we do vpon command.

2 And he that hath commanded, is our King.

Cla. Erroneous Vassals, the great King of Kings Hath in the Table of his Law commanded That thou…

2 And that same Vengeance doth he hurle on thee, For false Forswearing, and for murther too: Thou…

1 And like a Traitor to the name of God, Did'st breake that Vow, and with thy treacherous…

2 Whom thou was't sworne to cherish and defend.

1 How canst thou vrge Gods dreadfull Law to vs When thou hast broke it in such deere…

Cla. Alas! for whose sake did I that ill deede? For Edward, for my Brother, for his sake.…

1 Who made thee then a bloudy minister, When gallant springing braue Plantagenet, That Princely Nouice was strucke…

Cla. My Brothers loue, the Diuell, and my Rage.

1 Thy Brothers Loue, our Duty, and thy Faults, Prouoke vs hither now, to slaughter thee.

Cla. If you do loue my Brother, hate not me: I am his Brother, and I loue him…

2 You are deceiu'd, Your Brother Glouster hates you.

Cla. Oh no, he loues me, and he holds me deere: Go you to him from me.

1 I so we will.

Cla. Tell him, when that our Princely Father Yorke, Blest his three Sonnes with his victorious Arme, He…

1 I Milstones, as he lessoned vs to weepe.

Cla. O do not slander him, for he is kinde.

1 Right, as Snow in Haruest: Come, you deceiue your selfe, 'Tis he that sends vs to destroy…

Cla. It cannot be, for he bewept my Fortune, And hugg'd me in his armes, and swore with…

1 Why so he doth, when he deliuers you From this earths thraldome, to the ioyes of heauen.

2 Make peace with God, for you must die my Lord.

Cla. Haue you that holy feeling in your soules, To counsaile me to make my peace with God,…

2 What shall we do?

Clar. Relent, and saue your soules: Which of you, if you were a Princes Sonne, Being pent from…

1 Relent? no: 'Tis cowardly and womanish.

Cla. Not to relent, is beastly, sauage, diuellish: My Friend, I spy some pitty in thy lookes: O,…

2 Looke behinde you, my Lord.

1 Take that, and that, if all this will not do, Stabs him. Ile drowne you in the…

Exit.

2 A bloody deed, and desperately dispatcht: How faine (like Pilate) would I wash my hands Of this…

Enter 1. Murtherer

1 How now? what mean'st thou that thou help'st me not? By Heauen the Duke shall know how…

2. Mur. I would he knew that I had sau'd his brother, Take thou the Fee, and tell…

Exit.

1. Mur. So do not I: go Coward as thou art. Well, Ile go hide the body in…

Exit

Actus Secundus. Scœna Prima.

Flourish.

Enter the King sicke, the Queene, Lord Marquesse Dorset, Riuers, Hastings, Catesby, Buckingham, Wooduill.

King. Why so: now haue I done a good daies work. You Peeres, continue this vnited League: I,…

Riu. By heauen, my soule is purg'd from grudging hate And with my hand I seale my true…

Hast. So thriue I, as I truly sweare the like.

King. Take heed you dally not before your King, Lest he that is the supreme King of Kings…

Hast. So prosper I, as I sweare perfect loue.

Ri. And I, as I loue Hastings with my heart.

King. Madam, your selfe is not exempt from this: Nor you Sonne Dorset, Buckingham nor you; You haue…

Qu. There Hastings, I will neuer more remember Our former hatred, so thriue I, and mine.

King. Dorset, imbrace him: Hastings, loue Lord Marquesse.

Dor. This interchange of loue, I heere protest Vpon my part, shall be inuiolable.

Hast. And so sweare I.

King. Now Princely Buckingham, seale yu this league With thy embracements to my wiues Allies, And make me…

Buc. When euer Buckingham doth turne his hate Vpon your Grace, but with all dutious loue, Doth cherish…

Embrace

King. A pleasing Cordiall, Princely Buckingham Is this thy Vow, vnto my sickely heart: There wanteth now our…

Buc. And in good time, Heere comes Sir Richard Ratcliffe, and the Duke.

Enter Ratcliffe, and Gloster.

Rich. Good morrow to my Soueraigne King & Queen And Princely Peeres, a happy time of day.

King, Happy indeed, as we haue spent the day: Gloster, we haue done deeds of Charity, Made peace…

Rich. A blessed labour my most Soueraigne Lord: Among this Princely heape, if any heere By false intelligence,…

Qu. A holy day shall this be kept heereafter: I would to God all strifes were well compounded.…

Rich Why Madam, haue I offred loue for this, To be so flowted in this Royall presence? Who…

They all start.

King. Who knowes not he is dead? Who knowes he is?

Qu. All‑seeing heauen, what a world is this?

Buc. Looke I so pale Lord Dorset, as the rest?

Dor. I my good Lord, and no man in the presence, But his red colour hath forsooke his…

King. Is Clarence dead? The Order was reuerst.

Rich. But he (poore man) by your first order dyed, And that a winged Mercurie did beare: Some…

Enter Earle of Derby.

Der. A boone my Soueraigne for my seruice done.

King. I prethee peace, my soule is full of sorrow.

Der. I will not rise, vnlesse your Highnes heare me.

King. Then say at once, what is it thou requests.

Der. The forfeit (Soueraigne) of my seruants life, Who slew to day a Riotous Gentleman, Lately attendant on…

King. Haue I a tongue to doome my Brothers death? And shall that tongue giue pardon to a…

Exeunt some with K. & Queen.

Rich. This is the fruits of rashnes: Markt you not, How that the guilty Kindred of the Queene…

Buc. We wait vpon your Grace.

exeunt.

Scena Secunda.

Enter the old Dutchesse of Yorke, with the two children of Clarence.

Edw. Good Grandam tell vs, is our Father dead?

Dutch. No Boy.

Daugh. Why do weepe so oft? And beate your Brest? And cry, O Clarence, my vnhappy Sonne.

Boy. Why do you looke on vs and shake your head, And call vs Orphans, Wretches, Castawayes, If…

Dut. My pretty Cosins, you mistake me both, I do lament the sicknesse of the King, As loath…

Boy. Then you conclude, (my Grandam) he is dead: The King mine Vnckle is too blame for it.…

Daugh. And so will I.

Dut. Peace children peace, the King doth loue you wel. Incapeable, and shallow Innocents, You cannot guesse who…

Boy. Grandam we can: for my good Vnkle Gloster Told me, the King prouok'd to it by the…

Dut. Ah! that Deceit should steale such gentle shape, And with a vertuous Vizor hide deepe vice. He…

Boy. Thinke you my Vnkle did dissemble Grandam?

Dut. I Boy.

Boy. I cannot thinke it. Hearke, what noise is this?

Enter the Queene with her haire about her ears, Riuers & Dorset after her.

Qu. Ah! who shall hinder me to waile and weepe? To chide my Fortune, and torment my Selfe.…

Dut. What meanes this Scene of rude impatience?

Qu. To make an act of Tragicke violence. Edward my Lord, thy Sonne, our King is dead. Why…

Dut. Ah so much interest haue in thy sorrow, As I had Title in thy Noble Husband: I…

Boy. Ah Aunt! you wept not for our Fathers death: How can we ayde you with our Kindred…

Daugh. Our fatherlesse distresse was left vnmoan'd, Your widdow‑dolour, likewise be vnwept.

Qu. Giue me no helpe in Lamentation, I am not barren to bring forth complaints: All Springs reduce…

Chil. Ah for our Father, for our deere Lord Clarence.

Dut. Alas for both, both mine Edward and Clarence.

Qu. What stay had I but Edward, and hee's gone?

Chil. What stay had we but Clarence? and he's gone.

Dut. What stayes had I, but they? and they are gone.

Qu. Was neuer widdow had so deere a losse.

Chil. Were neuer Orphans had so deere a losse.

Dut. Was neuer Mother had so deere a losse. Alas! I am the Mother of these Greefes, Their…

Dor. Comfort deere Mother, God is much displeas'd, That you take with vnthankfulnesse his doing. In common worldly…

Riuers. Madam, bethinke you like a carefull Mother Of the young Prince your sonne: send straight for him,…

Enter Richard, Buckingham, Derbie, Ha­ stings, and Ratcliffe.

Rich. Sister haue comfort, all of vs haue cause To waile the dimming of our shining Starre: But…

Dut. God blesse thee, and put meeknes in thy breast, Loue Charity, Obedience, and true Dutie.

Rich. Amen, and make me die a good old man, That is the butt‑end of a Mothers blessing;…

Buc. You clowdy‑Princes, & hart‑sorowing‑Peeres, That beare this heauie mutuall loade of Moane, Now cheere each other, in…

Riuers. Why with some little Traine, My Lord of Buckingham?

Buc. Marrie my Lord, least by a multitude, The new‑heal'd wound of Malice should breake out, Which would…

Rich. I hope the King made peace with all of vs, And the compact is firme, and true…

Riu. And so in me, and so (I thinke) in all. Yet since it is but greene, it…

Hast. And so say I.

Rich. Then be it so, and go we to determine Who they shall be that strait shall poste…

Exeunt.

Manet Buckingham, and Richard.

Buc. My Lord, who euer iournies to the Prince, For God sake let not vs two stay at…

Rich. My other selfe, my Counsailes Consistory, My Oracle, My Prophet, my deere Cosin, I, as a childe,…

Exeunt

Scena Tertia.

Enter one Citizen at one doore, and another at the other.

1. Cit. Good morrow Neighbour, whether away so fast?

2. Cit. I promise you, I scarsely know my selfe: Heare you the newes abroad?

1. Yes, that the King is dead.

2. Ill newes byrlady, seldome comes the better: I feare, I feare, 'twill proue a giddy world.

Enter another Citizen.

3. Neighbours, God speed.

1. Giue you good morrow sir.

3. Doth the newes hold of good king Edwards death?

2. I sir, it is too true, God helpe the while.

3. Then Masters looke to see a troublous world.

1. No, no, by Gods good grace, his Son shall reigne.

3. Woe to that Land that's gouern'd by a Childe.

2. In him there is a hope of Gouernment, Which in his nonage, counsell vnder him, And in…

1. So stood the State, when Henry the sixt Was crown'd in Paris, but at nine months old.

3. Stood the state so? No, no, good friends, God wot For then this Land was famously enrich'd…

1. Why so hath this, both by his Father and Mother.

3. Better it were they all came by his Father: Or by his Father there were none at…

1. Come, come, we feare the worst: all will be well.

3. When Clouds are seen, wisemen put on their clokes; When great leaues fall, then Winter is at…

2. Truly, the hearts of men are full of feare: You cannot reason (almost) with a man, That…

3. Before the dayes of Change, still is it so, By a diuine instinct, mens mindes mistrust Pursuing…

2 Marry we were sent for to the Iustices.

3 And so was I: Ile beare you company.

Exeunt.

Scena Quarta.

Enter Arch‑bishop, yong Yorke, the Queene, and the Dutchesse.

Arch. Last night I heard they lay at Stony Stratford, And at Northampton they do rest to night:…

Dut. I long with all my heart to see the Prince: I hope he is much growne since…

Qu. But I heare no, they say my sonne of Yorke Ha's almost ouertane him in his growth.

Yorke. I Mother, but I would not haue it so.

Dut. Why my good Cosin, it is good to grow.

Yor. Grandam, one night as we did sit at Supper, My Vnkle Riuers talk'd how I did grow…

Dut. Good faith, good faith, the saying did not hold In him that did obiect the same to…

Yor. And so no doubt he is, my gracious Madam.

Dut. I hope he is, but yet let Mothers doubt.

Yor. Now by my troth, if I had beene remembred, I could haue giuen my Vnkles Grace, a…

Dut. How my yong Yorke, I prythee let me heare it.

Yor. Marry (they say) my Vnkle grew so fast, That he could gnaw a crust at two houres…

Dut. I prythee pretty Yorke, who told thee this?

Yor. Grandam, his Nursse.

Dut. His Nurse? why she was dead, ere yu wast borne.

Yor. lf 'twere not she, I cannot tell who told me.

Qu. A parlous Boy: go too, you are too shrew'd.

Dut. Good Madam, be not angry with the Childe.

Qu. Pitchers haue eares.

Enter Messenger.

Arch. Heere comes a Messenger: What Newes?

Mes. Such newes my Lord, as greeues me to report,

Qu. How doth the Prince?

Mes. Well Madam, and in health.

Dut. What is thy Newes?

Mess. Lord Riuers, and Lord Grey, Are sent to Pomfret, and with them, Sir Thomas Vaughan, Prisoners.

Dut. Who hath committed them?

Mes. The Mighty Dukes, Glouster and Buckingham.

Arch. For what offence?

Mes. The summe of all I can, I haue disclos'd: Why, or for what, the Nobles were committed,…

Qu. Aye me! I see the ruine of my House: The Tyger now hath seiz'd the gentle Hinde,…

Dut. Accursed, and vnquiet wrangling dayes, How many of you haue mine eyes beheld? My Husband lost his…

Qu. Come, come my Boy, we will to Sanctuary. Madam, farwell.

Dut. Stay, I will go with you.

Qu. You haue no cause.

Arch. My gracious Lady go, And thether beare your Treasure and your Goodes, For my part, Ile resigne…

Exeunt

Actus Tertius. Scœna Prima.

The Trumpets sound.

Enter yong Prince, the Dukes of Glocester, and Buckingham, Lord Cardinall, with others.

Buc. Welcome sweete Prince to London, To your Chamber.

Rich. Welcome deere Cosin, my thoughts Soueraign The wearie way hath made you Melancholly.

Prin. No Vnkle, but our crosses on the way, Haue made it tedious, wearisome, and heauie. I want…

Rich. Sweet Prince, the vntainted vertue of your yeers Hath not yet diu'd into the Worlds deceit: No…

Prin. God keepe me from false Friends, But they were none.

Rich. My lord, the Maior of London comes to greet you.

Enter Lord Maior.

Lo. Maior. God blesse your Grace, with health and happie dayes.

Prin. I thanke you, good my Lord, and thank you all: I thought my Mother, and my Brother…

Enter Lord Hastings.

Buck. And in good time, heere comes the sweating Lord.

Prince. Welcome, my Lord: what, will our Mother come?

Hast. On what occasion God he knowes, not I; The Queene your Mother, and your Brother Yorke, Haue…

Buck. Fie, what an indirect and peeuish course Is this of hers? Lord Cardinall, will your Grace Perswade…

Card. My Lord of Buckingham, if my weake Oratorie Can from his Mother winne the Duke of Yorke,…

Buck. You are too sencelesse obstinate, my Lord, Too ceremonious, and traditionall. Weigh it but with the grossenesse…

Card. My Lord, you shall o're‑rule my mind for once. Come on, Lord Hastings, will you goe with…

Hast. I goe, my Lord.

Exit Cardinall and Hastings.

Prince. Good Lords, make all the speedie hast you may. Say, Vnckle Glocester, if our Brother come, Where…

Glo. Where it think'st best vnto your Royall selfe. If I may counsaile you, some day or two…

Prince. I doe not like the Tower, of any place: Did Iulius Cæsar build that place, my Lord?

Buck. He did, my gracious Lord, begin that place, Which since, succeeding Ages haue re‑edify'd.

Prince. Is it vpon record? or else reported Successiuely from age to age, he built it?

Buck. Vpon record, my gracious Lord.

Prince. But say, my Lord, it were not registred, Me thinkes the truth should liue from age to…

Glo. So wise, so young, they say doe neuer liue long.

Prince. What say you, Vnckle?

Glo. I say, without Characters, Fame liues long, Thus, like the formall Vice, Iniquitie, I morallize two meanings…

Prince. That Iulius Cæsar was a famous man, With what his Valour did enrich his Wit, His Wit…

Buck. What, my gracious Lord?

Prince. And if I liue vntill I be a man, Ile win our ancient Right in France againe,…

Glo. Short Summers lightly haue a forward Spring.

Enter young Yorke, Hastings, and Cardinall.

Buck. Now in good time, heere comes the Duke of Yorke.

Prince. Richard of Yorke, how fares our Noble Bro­ ther?

Yorke. Well, my deare Lord, so must I call you now.

Prince. I, Brother, to our griefe, as it is yours: Too late he dy'd, that might haue kept…

Glo. How fares our Cousin, Noble Lord of Yorke?

Yorke. I thanke you, gentle Vnckle. O my Lord, You said, that idle Weeds are fast in growth:…

Glo. He hath, my Lord.

Yorke. And therefore is he idle?

Glo. Oh my faire Cousin, I must not say so.

Yorke. Then he is more beholding to you, then I.

Glo. He may command me as my Soueraigne, But you haue power in me, as in a Kinsman.

Yorke. I pray you, Vnckle, giue me this Dagger.

Glo. My Dagger, little Cousin? with all my heart.

Prince. A Begger, Brother?

Yorke. Of my kind Vnckle, that I know will giue, And being but a Toy, which is no…

Glo. A greater gift then that, Ile giue my Cousin.

Yorke. A greater gift? O, that's the Sword to it.

Glo. I, gentle Cousin, were it light enough.

Yorke. O then I see, you will part but with light gifts, In weightier things you'le say a…

Glo. It is too weightie for your Grace to weare.

Yorke. I weigh it lightly, were it heauier.

Glo. What, would you haue my Weapon, little Lord?

Yorke. I would that I might thanke you, as, as, you call me.

Glo. How?

Yorke. Little.

Prince. My Lord of Yorke will still be crosse in talke: Vnckle, your Grace knowes how to beare…

Yorke. You meane to beare me, not to beare with me: Vnckle, my Brother mockes both you and…

Buck. With what a sharpe prouided wit he reasons: To mittigate the scorne he giues his Vnckle, He…

Glo. My Lord, wilt please you passe along? My selfe, and my good Cousin Buckingham, Will to your…

Yorke. What, will you goe vnto the Tower, my Lord?

Prince. My Lord Protector will haue it so.

Yorke. I shall not sleepe in quiet at the Tower.

Glo. Why, what should you feare?

Yorke. Marry, my Vnckle Clarence angry Ghost: My Grandam told me he was murther'd there.

Prince. I feare no Vnckles dead.

Glo. Nor none that liue, I hope.

Prince. And if they liue, I hope I need not feare. But come my Lord: and with a…

A Senet. Exeunt Prince, Yorke, Hastings, and Dorset.

Manet Richard, Buckingham, and Catesby.

Buck. Thinke you, my Lord, this little prating Yorke Was not incensed by his subtile Mother, To taunt…

Glo. No doubt, no doubt: Oh 'tis a perillous Boy, Bold, quicke, ingenious, forward, capable: Hee is all…

Buck. Well, let them rest: Come hither Catesby, Thou art sworne as deepely to effect what we intend,…

Cates. He for his fathers sake so loues the Prince, That he will not be wonne to ought…

Buck. What think'st thou then of Stanley? Will not hee?

Cates. Hee will doe all in all as Hastings doth.

Buck. Well then, no more but this: Goe gentle Catesby, and as it were farre off, Sound thou…

Rich. Commend me to Lord William: tell him Catesby, His ancient Knot of dangerous Aduersaries To morrow are…

Buck. Good Catesby, goe effect this businesse soundly.

Cates. My good Lords both, with all the heed I can.

Rich. Shall we heare from you, Catesby, ere we sleepe?

Cates. You shall, my Lord.

Rich. At Crosby House, there shall you find vs both.

Exit Catesby.

Buck. Now, my Lord, What shall wee doe, if wee perceiue Lord Hastings will not yeeld to our…

Rich. Chop off his Head: Something wee will determine: And looke when I am King, clayme thou of…

Buck. Ile clayme that promise at your Graces hand.

Rich. And looke to haue it yeelded with all kindnesse. Come, let vs suppe betimes, that afterwards Wee…

Exeunt.

Scena Secunda.

Enter a Messenger to the Doore of Hastings.

Mess. My Lord, my Lord.

Hast. Who knockes?

Mess. One from the Lord Stanley.

Hast. What is't a Clocke?

Mess. Vpon the stroke of foure.

Enter Lord Hastings.

Hast. Cannot my Lord Stanley sleepe these tedious Nights?

Mess. So it appeares, by that I haue to say: First, he commends him to your Noble selfe.

Hast. What then?

Mess. Then certifies your Lordship, that this Night He dreamt, the Bore had rased off his Helme: Besides,…

Hast. Goe fellow, goe, returne vnto thy Lord, Bid him not feare the seperated Councell: His Honor and…

Mess. Ile goe, my Lord, and tell him what you say.

Exit.

Enter Catesby.

Cates. Many good morrowes to my Noble Lord.

Hast. Good morrow Catesby, you are early stirring: What newes, what newes, in this our tott'ring State?

Cates. It is a reeling World indeed, my Lord: And I beleeue will neuer stand vpright, Till Richard…

Hast. How weare the Garland? Doest thou meane the Crowne?

Cates. I, my good Lord.

Hast. Ile haue this Crown of mine cut frō my shoulders, Before Ile see the Crowne so foule…

Cates. I, on my life, and hopes to find you forward, Vpon his partie, for the gaine thereof:…

Hast. Indeed I am no mourner for that newes, Because they haue beene still my aduersaries: But, that…

Cates. God keepe your Lordship in that gracious minde.

Hast. But I shall laugh at this a twelue‑month hence, That they which brought me in my Masters…

Cates. 'Tis a vile thing to dye, my gracious Lord, When men are vnprepar'd, and looke not for…

Hast. O monstrous, monstrous! and so falls it out With Riuers, Vaughan, Grey: and so 'twill doe With…

Cates. The Princes both make high account of you, For they account his Head vpon the Bridge.

Hast. I know they doe, and I haue well deseru'd it. Enter Lord Stanley. Come on, come on,…

Stan. My Lord good morrow, good morrow Catesby: You may ieast on, but by the holy Rood, I…

Hast. My Lord, I hold my Life as deare as yours, And neuer in my dayes, I doe…

Sta. The Lords at Pomfret, whē they rode from London, Were iocund, and suppos'd their states were sure,…

Hast. Come, come, haue with you: Wot you what, my Lord, To day the Lords you talke of,…

Sta. They, for their truth, might better wear their Heads, Then some that haue accus'd them, weare their…

Enter a Pursuiuant.

Hast. Goe on before, Ile talke with this good fellow. Exit Lord Stanley, and Catesby. How now, Sirrha?…

Purs. The better, that your Lordship please to aske.

Hast. I tell thee man, 'tis better with me now, Then when thou met'st me last, where now…

Purs. God hold it, to your Honors good content.

Hast. Gramercie fellow: there, drinke that for me.

Throwes him his Purse.

Purs. I thanke your Honor.

Exit Pursuiuant.

Enter a Priest.

Priest. Well met, my Lord, I am glad to see your Ho­ nor.

Hast. I thanke thee, good Sir Iohn, with all my heart. I am in your debt, for your…

Priest. Ile wait vpon your Lordship.

Enter Buckingham.

Buc. What, talking with a Priest, Lord Chamberlaine? Your friends at Pomfret, they doe need the Priest, Your…

Hast. Good faith, and when I met this holy man, The men you talke of, came into my…

Buc. I doe, my Lord, but long I cannot stay there: I shall returne before your Lordship, thence.

Hast. Nay like enough, for I stay Dinner there.

Buc. And Supper too, although thou know'st it not. Come, will you goe?

Hast. Ile wait vpon your Lordship.

Exeunt.

Scena Tertia.

Enter Sir Richard Ratcliffe, with Halberds, carrying the Nobles to death at Pomfret.

Riuers. Sir Richard Ratcliffe, let me tell thee this, To day shalt thou behold a Subiect die, For…

Grey. God blesse the Prince from all the Pack of you, A Knot you are, of damned Blood‑suckers.

Vaugh. You liue, that shall cry woe for this heere­ after.

Rat. Dispatch, the limit of your Liues is out.

Riuers. O Pomfret, Pomfret! O thou bloody Prison! Fatall and ominous to Noble Peeres: Within the guiltie Closure…

Grey. Now Margarets Curse is falne vpon our Heads, When shee exclaim'd on Hastings, you, and I, For…

Riuers. Then curs'd shee Richard, Then curs'd shee Buckingham, Then curs'd shee Hastings. Oh remember God, To heare…

Rat. Make haste, the houre of death is expiate.

Riuers. Come Grey, come Vaughan, let vs here embrace. Farewell, vntill we meet againe in Heauen.

Exeunt.

Scæna Quarta.

Enter Buckingham, Darby, Hastings, Bishop of Ely, Norfolke, Ratcliffe, Louell, with others, at a Table.

Hast. Now Noble Peeres, the cause why we are met, Is to determine of the Coronation: In Gods…

Buck. Is all things ready for the Royall time?

Darb. It is, and wants but nomination.

Ely. To morrow then I iudge a happie day.

Buck. Who knowes the Lord Protectors mind herein? Who is most inward with the Noble Duke?

Ely. Your Grace, we thinke, should soonest know his minde.

Buck. We know each others Faces: for our Hearts, He knowes no more of mine, then I of…

Hast. I thanke his Grace, I know he loues me well: But for his purpose in the Coronation,…

Enter Gloucester.

Ely. In happie time, here comes the Duke himselfe.

Rich. My Noble Lords, and Cousins all, good morrow: I haue beene long a sleeper: but I trust,…

Buck. Had you not come vpon your Q my Lord, William, Lord Hastings, had pronounc'd your part; I…

Rich. Then my Lord Hastings, no man might be bolder, His Lordship knowes me well, and loues me…

Ely. Mary and will, my Lord, with all my heart.

Exit Bishop.

Rich. Cousin of Buckingham, a word with you. Catesby hath sounded Hastings in our businesse, And findes the…

Buck. Withdraw your selfe a while, Ile goe with you.

Exeunt.

Darb. We haue not yet set downe this day of Triumph: To morrow, in my iudgement, is too…

Enter the Bishop of Ely.

Ely. Where is my Lord, the Duke of Gloster? I haue sent for these Strawberries.

Ha. His Grace looks chearfully & smooth this morning, There's some conceit or other likes him well, When…

Darb. What of his Heart perceiue you in his Face, By any liuelyhood he shew'd to day?

Hast. Mary, that with no man here he is offended: For were he, he had shewne it in…

Enter Richard, and Buckingham.

Rich. I pray you all, tell me what they deserue, That doe conspire my death with diuellish Plots…

Hast. The tender loue I beare your Grace, my Lord, Makes me most forward, in this Princely presence,…

Rich. Then be your eyes the witnesse of their euill. Looke how I am bewitch'd: behold, mine Arme…

Hast. If they haue done this deed, my Noble Lord.

Rich. If? thou Protector of this damned Strumpet, Talk'st thou to me of Ifs: thou art a Traytor,…

Manet Louell and Ratcliffe, with the Lord Hastings.

Hast. Woe, woe for England, not a whit for me, For I, too fond, might haue preuented this:…

Ra. Come, come, dispatch, the Duke would be at dinner: Make a short Shrift, he longs to see…

Hast. O momentarie grace of mortall men, Which we more hunt for, then the grace of God! Who…

Lou. Come, come, dispatch, 'tis bootlesse to exclaime.

Hast. O bloody Richard: miserable England, I prophecie the fearefull'st time to thee, That euer wretched Age hath…

Exeunt.

Enter Richard, and Buckingham, in rotten Armour, maruellous ill‑fauoured.

Richard. Come Cousin, Canst thou quake, and change thy colour, Murther thy breath in middle of a word,…

Buck. Tut, I can counterfeit the deepe Tragedian, Speake, and looke backe, and prie on euery side, Tremble…

Rich. He is, and see he brings the Maior along.

Enter the Maior, and Catesby.

Buck. Lord Maior.

Rich. Looke to the Draw‑Bridge there.

Buck. Hearke, a Drumme.

Rich. Catesby, o're‑looke the Walls.

Buck. Lord Maior, the reason we haue sent.

Rich. Looke back, defend thee, here are Enemies.

Buck. God and our Innocencie defend, and guard vs.

Enter Louell and Ratcliffe, with Hastings Head.

Rich. Be patient, they are friends: Ratcliffe, and Louell.

Louell. Here is the Head of that ignoble Traytor, The dangerous and vnsuspected Hastings.

Rich. So deare I lou'd the man, that I must weepe: I tooke him for the plainest harmelesse…

Buck. Well, well, he was the couertst sheltred Traytor That euer liu'd. Would you imagine, or almost beleeue,…

Maior. Had he done so?

Rich. What? thinke you we are Turkes, or Infidels? Or that we would, against the forme of Law,…

Maior. Now faire befall you, he deseru'd his death, And your good Graces both haue well proceeded, To…

Buck. I neuer look'd for better at his hands, After he once fell in with Mistresse Shore: Yet…

Ma. But, my good Lord, your Graces words shal serue, As well as I had seene, and heard…

Rich. And to that end we wish'd your Lordship here, T'auoid the Censures of the carping World.

Buck. Which since you come too late of our intent, Yet witnesse what you heare we did intend:…

Exit Maior.

Rich. Goe after, after, Cousin Buckingham. The Maior towards Guild‑Hall hyes him in all poste: There, at your…

Buck. Doubt not, my Lord, Ile play the Orator, As if the Golden Fee, for which I plead,…

Rich. If you thriue wel, bring them to Baynards Castle, Where you shall finde me well accompanied With…

Buck. I goe, and towards three or foure a Clocke Looke for the Newes that the Guild‑Hall affoords.

Exit Buckingham.

Rich. Goe Louell with all speed to Doctor Shaw, Goe thou to Fryer Peuker, bid them both Meet…

Exeunt.

Enter a Scriuener.

Scr. Here is the Indictment of the good Lord Hastings, Which in a set Hand fairely is engross'd,…

Exit.

Enter Richard and Buckingham at seurall Doores.

Rich. How now, how now, what say the Citizens?

Buck. Now by the holy Mother of our Lord, The Citizens are mum, say not a word.

Rich. Toucht you the Bastardie of Edwards Children?

Buck. I did, with his Contract with Lady Lucy, And his Contract by Deputie in France, Th'vnsatiate greedinesse…

Rich. And did they so?

Buck. No, so God helpe me, they spake not a word, But like dumbe Statues, or breathing Stones,…

Rich. What tongue‑lesse Blockes were they, Would they not speake? Will not the Maior then, and his Brethren,…

Buck. The Maior is here at hand: intend some feare, Be not you spoke with, but by mightie…

Rich. I goe: and if you plead as well for them, As I can say nay to thee…

Buck. Go, go vp to the Leads, the Lord Maior knocks. Enter the Maior, and Citizens. Welcome, my…

Enter Catesby.

Buck. Now Catesby, what sayes your Lord to my request?

Catesby. He doth entreat your Grace, my Noble Lord, To visit him to morrow, or next day: He…

Buck. Returne, good Catesby, to the gracious Duke, Tell him, my selfe, the Maior and Aldermen, In deepe…

Catesby. Ile signifie so much vnto him straight.

Exit.

Buck. Ah ha, my Lord, this Prince is not an Edward, He is not lulling on a lewd…

Maior. Marry God defend his Grace should say vs nay.

Buck. I feare he will: here Catesby comes againe. Enter Catesby. Now Catesby, what sayes his Grace?

Catesby. He wonders to what end you haue assembled Such troopes of Citizens, to come to him, His…

Buck. Sorry I am, my Noble Cousin should Suspect me, that I meane no good to him: By…

Enter Richard aloft, betweene two Bishops.

Maior. See where his Grace stands, tweene two Clergie men.

Buck. Two Props of Vertue, for a Christian Prince, To stay him from the fall of Vanitie: And…

Rich. My Lord, there needs no such Apologie: I doe beseech your Grace to pardon me, Who earnest…

Buck. Euen that (I hope) which pleaseth God aboue, And all good men, of this vngouern'd Ile.

Rich. I doe suspect I haue done some offence, That seemes disgracious in the Cities eye, And that…

Buck. You haue, my Lord: Would it might please your Grace, On our entreaties, to amend your fault.

Rich. Else wherefore breathe I in a Christian Land.

Buck. Know then, it is your fault, that you resigne The Supreme Seat, the Throne Maiesticall, The Sceptred…

Rich. I cannot tell, if to depart in silence, Or bitterly to speake in your reproofe, Best fitteth…

Buck. My Lord, this argues Conscience in your Grace, But the respects thereof are nice, and triuiall, All…

Maior. Do good my Lord, your Citizens entreat you.

Buck. Refuse not, mightie Lord, this proffer'd loue.

Catesb. O make them ioyfull, grant their lawfull suit.

Rich. Alas, why would you heape this Care on me? I am vnfit for State, and Maiestie: I…

Buck. If you refuse it, as in loue and zeale, Loth to depose the Child, your Brothers Sonne,…

Exeunt.

Catesb. Call him againe, sweet Prince, accept their suit: If you denie them, all the Land will rue…

Rich. Will you enforce me to a world of Cares. Call them againe, I am not made of…

Maior. God blesse your Grace, wee see it, and will say it.

Rich. In saying so, you shall but say the truth.

Buck. Then I salute you with this Royall Title, Long liue King Richard, Englands worthie King.

All. Amen.

Buck. To morrow may it please you to be Crown'd.

Rich. Euen when you please, for you will haue it so.

Buck. To morrow then we will attend your Grace, And so most ioyfully we take our leaue.

Rich. Come, let vs to our holy Worke againe. Farewell my Cousins, farewell gentle friends.

Exeunt.

Actus Quartus. Scena Prima.

Enter the Queene, Anne Duchesse of Gloucester, the Duchesse of Yorke, and Marquesse Dorset.

Duch. Yorke. Who meetes vs heere? My Neece Plantagenet, Led in the hand of her kind Aunt of…

Anne. God giue your Graces both, a happie And a ioyfull time of day.

Qu. As much to you, good Sister: whither away?

Anne. No farther then the Tower, and as I guesse, Vpon the like deuotion as your selues, To…

Qu. Kind Sister thankes, wee'le enter all together: Enter the Lieutenant. And in good time, here the Lieutenant…

Lieu. Right well, deare Madame: by your patience, I may not suffer you to visit them, The King…

Qu. The King? who's that?

Lieu. I meane, the Lord Protector.

Qu. The Lord protect him from that Kingly Title. Hath he set bounds betweene their loue, and me?…

Duch. Yorke. I am their Fathers Mother, I will see them.

Anne. Their Aunt I am in law, in loue their Mother: Then bring me to their sights, Ile…

Lieu. No, Madame, no; I may not leaue it so: I am bound by Oath, and therefore pardon…

Exit Lieutenant.

Enter Stanley.

Stanley. Let me but meet you Ladies one howre hence, And Ile salute your Grace of Yorke as…

Qu. Ah, cut my Lace asunder, That my pent heart may haue some scope to beat, Or else…

Anne. Despightfull tidings, O vnpleasing newes.

Dors. Be of good cheare: Mother, how fares your Grace?

Qu. O Dorset, speake not to me, get thee gone, Death and Destruction dogges thee at thy heeles,…

Stanley. Full of wise care, is this your counsaile, Madame: Take all the swift aduantage of the howres:…

Duch. Yorke. O ill dispersing Winde of Miserie, O my accursed Wombe, the Bed of Death: A Cockatrice…

Stanley. Come, Madame, come, I in all haste was sent.

Anne. And I with all vnwillingnesse will goe. O would to God, that the inclusiue Verge Of Golden…

Qu. Goe, goe, poore soule, I enuie not thy glory, To feed my humor, with thy selfe no…

Anne. No: why? When he that is my Husband now, Came to me, as I follow'd Henries Corse,…

Qu. Poore heart adieu, I pittie thy complaining.

Anne. No more, then with my soule I mourne for yours.

Dors. Farewell, thou wofull welcommer of glory.

Anne. Adieu, poore soule, that tak'st thy leaue of it.

Du. Y. Go thou to Richmond, & good fortune guide thee, Go thou to Richard, and good Angels…

Qu. Stay, yet looke backe with me vnto the Tower. Pitty, you ancient Stones, those tender Babes, Whom…

Exeunt.

Scena Secunda.

Sound a Sennet. Enter Richard in pompe, Buc­ kingham, Catesby, Ratcliffe, Louel.

Rich. Stand all apart. Cousin of Buckingham.

Buck. My gracious Soueraigne.

Rich. Giue me thy hand. Sound. Thus high, by thy aduice, and thy assistance, Is King Richard seated:…

Buck. Still liue they, and for euer let them last.

Rich. Ah Buckingham, now doe I play the Touch, To trie if thou be currant Gold indeed: Young…

Buck. Say on my louing Lord.