The Famous History of the Life of King HENRY the Eight
William Shakespeare
Original text: Bodleian Libraries · Shakespeare First Folio (1623), Bodleian Library Arch. G c.7; diplomatic TEI transcription
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The Famous History of the Life of King HENRY the Eight.
THE PROLOGVE.
I Come no more to make you laugh, Things now, T□at beare a Weighty, and a Serious Brow,…
Actus Primus. Scœna Prima.
Enter the Duke of Norfolke at one doore. At the other, the Duke of Buckingham, and the Lord…
Buckingham. GOod morrow, and well met. How haue ye done Since last we saw in France?
Norf. I thanke your Grace: Healthfull, and euer since a fresh Admirer Of what I saw there.
Buck. An vntimely Ague Staid me a Prisoner in my Chamber, when Those Sunnes of Glory, those two…
Nor. 'Twixt Guynes and Arde, I was then present, saw them salute on Horsebacke, Beheld them when they…
Buck. All the whole time I was my Chambers Prisoner.
Nor. Then you lost The view of earthly glory: Men might say Till this time Pompe was single,…
Buc. Oh you go farre.
Nor. As I belong to worship, and affect In Honor, Honesty, the tract of eu'ry thing, Would by…
Buc. All was Royall, To the disposing of it nought rebell'd, Order gaue each thing view. The Office…
Nor. As you guesse: One certes, that promises no Element In such a businesse.
Buc. I pray you who, my Lord?
Nor. All this was ordred by the good Discretion Of the right Reuerend Cardinall of Yorke.
Buc. The diuell speed him: No mans Pye is freed From his Ambitious finger. What had he To…
Nor. Surely Sir, There's in him stuffe, that put's him to these ends: For being not propt by…
Abur. I cannot tell What Heauen hath giuen him: let some Grauer eye Pierce into that, but I…
Buc. Why the Diuell, Vpon this French going out, tooke he vpon him (Without the priuity o'th'King) t'appoint…
Abur. I do know Kinsmen of mine, three at the least, that haue By this, so sicken'd their…
Buc. O many Haue broke their backes with laying Mannors on 'em For this great Iourney. What did…
Nor. Greeuingly I thinke, The Peace betweene the French and vs, not valewes The Cost that did conclude…
Buc. Euery man, After the hideous storme that follow'd, was A thing Inspir'd, and not consulting, broke Into…
Nor. Which is budded out, For France hath flaw'd the League, and hath attach'd Our Merchants goods at…
Abur. Is it therefore Th'Ambassador is silenc'd?
Nor. Marry is't.
Abur. A proper Title of a Peace, and purchas'd At a superfluous rate.
Buc. Why all this Businesse Our Reuerend Cardinall carried.
Nor. Like it your Grace, The State takes notice of the priuate difference Betwixt you, and the Cardinall.…
Enter Cardinall Wolsey, the Purse borne before him, certaine of the Guard, and two Secretaries with Papers: The…
Car. The Duke of Buckinghams Surueyor? Ha? Where's his Examination?
Secr. Heere so please you.
Car. Is he in person, ready?
Secr. I, please your Grace.
Car. Well, we shall then know more, & Buckingham Shall lessen this bigge looke.
Exeunt Cardinall, and his Traine.
Buc. This Butchers Curre is venom'd‑mouth'd, and I Haue not the power to muzzle him, therefore best Not…
Nor. What are you chaff'd? Aske God for Temp'rance, that's th'appliance onely Which your disease requires.
Buc. I read in's looks Matter against me, and his eye reuil'd Me as his abiect obiect, at…
Nor. Stay my Lord, And let your Reason with your Choller question What 'tis you go about: to…
Buc. Ile to the King, And from a mouth of Honor, quite cry downe This Ipswich fellowes insolence;…
Norf. Be aduis'd; Heat not a Furnace for your foe so hot That it do sindge your selfe.…
Buck. Sir, I am thankfull to you, and Ile goe along By your prescription: but this top‑proud fellow,…
Norf. Say not treasonous.
Buck. To th'King Ile say't, & make my vouch as strong As shore of Rocke: attend. This holy…
Norf. Faith, and so it did.
Buck. Pray giue me fauour Sir: This cunning Cardinall The Articles o'th'Combination drew As himselfe pleas'd; and they…
Norf. I am sorry To heare this of him; and could wish he were Somthing mistaken in't.
Buck. No, not a sillable: I doe pronounce him in that very shape He shall appeare in proofe.
Enter Brandon, a Sergeant at Armes before him, and two or three of the Guard.
Brandon. Your Office Sergeant: execute it.
Sergeant. Sir, My Lord the Duke of Buckingham, and Earle Of Hertford, Stafford and Northampton, I Arrest thee…
Buck. Lo you my Lord, The net has falne vpon me, I shall perish Vnder deuice, and practise:
Bran. I am sorry, To see you tane from liberty, to looke on The busines present. Tis his…
Buck. It will helpe me nothing To plead mine Innocence; for that dye is on me Which makes…
Bran. Nay, he must beare you company. The King Is pleas'd you shall to th'Tower, till you know…
Abur. As the Duke said, The will of Heauen be done, and the Kings pleasure By me obey'd.
Bran. Here is a warrant from The King, t'attach Lord Mountacute, and the Bodies Of the Dukes Confessor,…
Buck. So, so; These are the limbs o'th'Plot: no more I hope.
Bra. A Monke o'th'Chartreux.
Buck: O Michaell Hopkins?
Bra. He.
Buck. My Surueyor is falce: The ore‑great Cardinall Hath shew'd him gold; my life is spand already: I…
Exe.
Scena Secunda.
Cornets. Enter King Henry, leaning on the Cardinals shoul der, the Nobles, and Sir Thomas Louell: the Cardinall…
King. My life it selfe, and the best heart of it, Thankes you for this great care: I…
A noyse within crying roome for the Queene, vsher'd by the Duke of Norfolke. Enter the Queene, Norfolke…
Queen. Nay, we must longer kneele; I am a Suitor.
King. Arise, and take place by vs; halfe your Suit Neuer name to vs; you haue halfe our…
Queen. Thanke your Maiesty That you would loue your selfe, and in that loue Not vnconsidered leaue your…
Kin. Lady mine proceed.
Queen. I am solicited nor by a few, And those of true condition; That your Subiects Are in…
Norf. Not almost appeares, It doth appeare; for, vpon these Taxations, The Clothiers all not able to maintaine…
Kin. Taxation? Wherein? and what Taxation? My Lord Cardinall, You that are blam'd for it alike with vs,…
Card. Please you Sir, I know but of a single part in ought Pertaines to th'State; and front…
Queen. No, my Lord? You know no more then others? But you frame Things that are knowne alike,…
Kin. Still Exaction: The nature of it, in what kinde let's know, Is this Exaction?
Queen. I am much too venturous In tempting of your patience; but am boldned Vnder your promis'd pardon.…
Kin. By my life, This is against our pleasure.
Card. And for me, I haue no further gone in this, then by A single voice, and that…
Kin. Things done well, And with a care, exempt themselues from feare: Things done without example, in their…
Card. A word with you. Let there be Letters writ to euery Shire, Of the Kings grace and…
Exit Secret.
Enter Surueyor.
Queen. I am sorry, that the Duke of Buckingham Is run in your displeasure.
Kin. It grieues many: The Gentleman is Learn'd, and a most rare Speaker, To Nature none more bound;…
Card. Stand forth, & with bold spirit relate what you Most like a carefull Subiect haue collected Out…
Kin. Speake freely.
Sur. First, it was vsuall with him; euery day It would infect his Speech: That if the King…
Card. Please your Highnesse note This dangerous conception in this point, Not frended by his wish to your…
Queen. My learn'd Lord Cardinall, Deliuer all with Charity.
Kin. Speake on; How grounded hee his Title to the Crowne Vpon our faile; to this poynt hast…
Sur. He was brought to this, By a vaine Prophesie of Nicholas Henton.
Kin. What was that Henton?
Sur. Sir, a Chartreux Fryer, His Confessor, who fed him euery minute With words of Soueraignty.
Kin. How know'st thou this?
Sur. Not long before your Hignesse sped to France, The Duke being at the Rose, within the Parish…
Queen. If I know you well, You were the Dukes Surueyor, and lost your Office On the complaint…
Kin. Let him on: Goe forward.
Sur. On my Soule, Ile speake but truth, I told my Lord the Duke, by th'Diuels illusions The…
Kin. Ha? What, so rancke? Ah, ha, There's mischiefe in this man; canst thou say further?
Sur. I can my Liedge.
Kin. Proceed.
Sur. Being at Greenwich, After your Highnesse had reprou'd the Duke About Sir William Blumer.
Kin. I remember of such a time, being my sworn ser (uant, The Duke retein'd him his. But…
Sur. If (quoth he) I for this had beene committed, As to the Tower, I thought; I would…
Kin. A Gyant Traytor.
Card. Now Madam, may his Highnes liue in freedome, And this man out of Prison.
Queen. God mend all.
Kin. Ther's somthing more would out of thee; what (say'st?
Sur. After the Duke his Father, with the knife He stretch'd him, and with one hand on his…
Kin. There's his period, To sheath his knife in vs: he is attach'd, Call him to present tryall:…
Exeunt.
Scæna Tertia.
Enter L. Chamberlaine and L. Sandys.
L. Ch. Is't possible the spels of France should iuggle Men into such strange mysteries?
L. San. New customes, Though they be neuer so ridiculous, (Nay let 'em be vumanly) yet are follow'd.
L. Ch. As farre as I see, all the good our English Haue got by the late Voyage,…
L. San. They haue all new legs, And lame ones; one would take it, That neuer see 'em…
L. Ch. Death my Lord, Their cloathes are after such a Pagan cut too't, That sure th'haue worne…
Enter Sir Thomas Louell.
Louell. Faith my Lord, I heare of none but the new Proclamation, That's clapt vpon the Court Gate.
L. Cham. What is't for?
Lou. The reformation of our trauel'd Gallants, That fill the Court with quarrels, talke, and Taylors.
L. Cham. I'm glad 'tis there; Now I would pray our Monsieurs To thinke an English Courtier may…
Lou. They must either (For so run the Conditions) leaue those remnants Of Foole and Feather, that they…
L. San. Tis time to giue 'em Physicke, their diseases Are growne so catching.
L. Cham. What a losse our Ladies Will haue of these trim vanities?
Louell. I marry, There will be woe indeed Lords, the slye whorsons Haue got a speeding tricke to…
L. San. The Diuell fiddle 'em, I am glad they are going, For sure there's no conuerting of…
L. Cham. Well said Lord Sands, Your Colts tooth is not cast yet?
L. San. No my Lord, Nor shall not while I haue a stumpe.
L. Cham. Sir Thomas, Whither were you a going?
Lou. To the Cardinals; Your Lordship is a guest too.
L. Cham. O, 'tis true; This night he makes a Supper, and a great one, To many Lords…
Lou. That Churchman Beares a bounteous minde indeed, A hand as fruitfull as the Land that feeds vs,…
L. Cham. No doubt hee's Noble; He had a blacke mouth that said other of him.
L. San. He may my Lord, Ha's wherewithall in him; Sparing would shew a worse sinne, then ill…
L. Cham. True, they are so; But few now giue so great ones: My Barge stayes; Your Lordship…
L. San. I am your Lordships.
Exeunt.
Scena Quarta.
Hoboies. A small Table vnder a State for the Cardinall, a longer Table for the Guests. Then Enter…
S. Hen. Guilf. Ladyes, A generall welcome from his Grace Salutes ye all; This Night he dedicates To…
Cham. You are young Sir Harry Guilford.
San. Sir Thomas Louell, had the Cardinall But halfe my Lay‑thoughts in him, some of these Should finde…
Lou. O that your Lordship were but now Confessor, To one or two of these.
San. I would I were, They should finde easie pennance.
Lou. Faith how easie?
San. As easie as a downe bed would affoord it.
Cham. Sweet Ladies will it please you sit; Sir Harry Place you that side, Ile take the charge…
San. By my faith, And thanke your Lordship: by your leaue sweet Ladies, If I chance to talke…
An. Bul. Was he mad Sir?
San. O very mad exceeding mad, in loue too; But he would bite none, iust as I doe…
Cham. Well said my Lord: So now y'are fairely seated: Gntlemen, The pennance lyes on you; if these…
San. For my little Cure, Let me alone.
Hoboyes. Enter Cardinall Wolsey, and takes his State.
Card. Y'are wel□ome my faire Guests that noble Lady Or Gentleman that is not freely merry Is not…
San. Your Grace is Noble, Let me haue such a Bowle may hold my thankes, And saue me…
Card. My Lord Sands, I am beholding to you: cheere your neighbours: Ladies you are not merry; Gentlemen,…
San. The red wine first must rise In their faire cheekes my Lord, then wee shall haue 'em,…
An. B. You are a merry Gamster My Lord Sands.
San. Yes, if I make my play: Heer's to your Ladiship, and pledge it Madam: For tis to…
An. B. You cannot shew me.
Drum and Trumpet, Chambers dischargd.
San. I told your Grace, they would talke anon.
Card. What's that?
Cham. Looke out there, some of ye.
Card. What warlike voyce, And to what end is this? Nay, Ladies, feare not; By all the lawes…
Enter a Seruant.
Cham. How now, what is't?
Seru. A noble troupe of Strangers, For so they seeme; th'haue left their Barge and landed, And hither…
Card. Good Lord Chamberlaine, Go, giue 'em welcome; you can speake the French tongue And pray receiue 'em…
Cham. Because they speak no English, thus they praid To tell your Grace: That hauing heard by fame…
Card. Say, Lord Chamberlaine, They haue done my poore house grace: For which I pay 'em a thousand…
Choose Ladies, King and An Bullen.
King. The fairest hand I euer touch'd: O Beauty, Till now I neuer knew thee.
Musicke, Dance.
Card. My Lord.
Cham. Your Grace.
Card. Pray tell 'em thus much from me: There should be one amongst 'em by his person More…
Cham. I will my Lord.
Card. What say they?
Cham. Such a one, they all confesse There is indeed, which they would haue your Grace Find out,…
Card. Let me see then, By all your good leaues Gentlemen; heere Ile make My royall choyce.
Kin. Ye haue found him Cardinall, You hold a faire Assembly; you doe well Lord: You are a…
Card. I am glad Your Grace is growne so pleasant.
Kin. My Lord Chamberlaine, Prethee come hither, what faire Ladie's that?
Cham. An't please your Grace, Sir Thomas Bullens Daughter, the Viscount Rochford, One of her Highnesse women.
Kin. By Heauen she is a dainty one. Sweet heart, I were vnmannerly to take you out, And…
Card. Sir Thomas Louell, is the Banket ready I'th'Priuy Chamber?
Lou. Yes, my Lord.
Card. Your Grace I feare, with dancing is a little heated.
Kin. I feare too much.
Card. There's fresher ayre my Lord, In the next Chamber.
Kin. Lead in your Ladies eu'ry one: Sweet Partner, I must not yet forsake you: Let's be merry,…
Exeunt with Trumpets.
Actus Secundus. Scena Prima.
Enter two Gentlemen at seuerall Doores.
1. Whether away so fast?
2. O, God saue ye: Eu'n to the Hall, to heare what shall become Of the great Duke…
1. Ile saue you That labour Sir. All's now done but the Ceremony Of bringing backe the Prisoner.
2. Were you there?
1. Yes indeed was I.
2. Pray speake what ha's happen'd.
1. You may guesse quickly what.
2. Is he found guilty?
1. Yes truly is he, And condemn'd vpon't.
2. I am sorry fort.
1. So are a number more.
2. But pray how past it?
1. Ile tell you in a little. The great Duke Came to the Bar; where, to his accusations…
2. That was hee That fed him with his Prophecies.
1. The same, All these accus'd him strongly, which he faine Would haue flung from him; but indeed…
2. After all this, how did he beare himselfe?
1. When he was brought agen to th'Bar, to heare His Knell rung out, his Iudgement, he was…
2. I doe not thinke he feares death.
1. Sure he does not, He neuer was so womanish, the cause He may a little grieue at.
2. Certainly, The Cardinall is the end of this.
1. Tis likely, By all coniectures: First Kildares Attendure; Then Deputy of lreland, who remou'd Earle Surrey, was…
2. That tricke of State Was a deepe enuious one,
1. At his returne, No doubt he will requite it; this is noted (And generally) who euer the…
2. All the Commons Hate him perniciously, and o' my Conscience Wish him ten faddom deepe: This Duke…
Enter Buckingham from his Arraignment, Tipstaues before him, the Axe with the edge towards him, Halberds on each…
1. Stay there Sir, And see the noble ruin'd man you speake of.
2. Let's stand close and behold him.
Buck All good people, You that thus farre haue come to pitty me; Heare what I say, and…
Louell. I doe beseech your Grace, for charity If euer any malice in your heart Were hid against…
Buck. Sir Thomas Louell, I as free forgiue you As I would be forgiuen: I forgiue all. There…
Lou. To th' water side I must conduct your Grace; Then giue my Charge vp to Sir Nicholas…
Vaux. Prepare there, The Duke is comming: See the Barge be ready; And fit it with such furniture…
Buck. Nay, Sir Nicholas, Let it alone; my State now will but mocke me. When I came hither,…
Exeunt Duke and Traine.
1. O, this is full of pitty; Sir, it cals I feare, too many curses on their heads…
2. If the Duke be guiltlesse, 'Tis full of woe: yet I can giue you inckling Of an…
1. Good Angels keepe it from vs: What may it be? you doe not doubt my faith Sir?
2. This Secret is so weighty, 'twill require A strong faith to conceale it.
1: Let me haue it: I doe not talke much.
2. I am confident; You shall Sir: Did you not of late dayes heare A buzzing of a…
1. Yes, but it held not; For when the King once heard it, out of anger He sent…
2. But that slander Sir, Is found a truth now: for it growes agen Fresher then e're it…
1. Tis the Cardinall; And meerely to reuenge him on the Emperour, For not bestowing on him at…
2. I thinke You haue hit the marke; but is't not cruell, That she should feele the smart…
1. 'Tis wofull. Wee are too open heere to argue this: Let's thinke in priuate more.
Exeunt.
Scena Secunda.
Enter Lord Chamberlaine, reading this Letter.
MY Lord, the Horses your Lordship sent for, with all the care I had, I saw well chosen,…
Enter to the Lord Chamberlaine, the Dukes of Nor folke and Suffolke.
Norf. Well met my Lord Chamberlaine.
Cham. Good day to both your Graces.
Suff. How is the King imployd?
Cham. I left him priuate, Full of sad thoughts and troubles.
Norf. What's the cause?
Cham. It seemes the Marriage with his Brothers Wife Ha's crept too neere his Conscience.
Suff. No, his Conscience Ha's crept too neere another Ladie.
Norf. Tis so; This is the Cardinals doing; The King‑Cardinall, That blinde Priest, like the eldest Sonne of…
Suff. Pray God he doe, Hee'l neuer know himselfe else.
Norf. How holily he workes in all his businesse, And with what zeale? For now he has crackt…
Cham. Heauen keep me from such councel: tis most true These newes are euery where, euery tongue speaks…
Suff. And free vs from his slauery.
Norf. We had need pray, And heartily, for our deliuerance; Or this imperious man will worke vs all…
Suff. For me, my Lords, I loue him not, nor feare him, there's my Creede: As I am…
Norf. Let's in; And with some other busines, put the King From these sad thoughts, that work too…
Cham. Excuse me, The King ha's sent me otherwhere: Besides You'l finde a most vnfit time to disturbe…
Norfolke. Thankes my good Lord Chamberlaine.
Exit Lord Chamberlaine, and the King drawes the Curtaine and sits reading pensiuely.
Suff. How sad he lookes; sure he is much afflicted.
Kin. Who's there? Ha?
Norff. Pray God he be not angry.
Kin. Who's there I say? How dare you thrust your (selues Into my priuate Meditations? Who am I?…
Norff. A gracious King, that pardons all offences Malice ne're meant: Our breach of Duty this way, Is…
Kin. Ye are too bold: Go too; Ile make ye know your times of businesse: Is this an…
Wol. Sir, you cannot; I would your Grace would giue vs but an houre Of priuate conference.
Kin. We are busie; goe.
Norff. This Priest ha's no pride in him?
Suff. Not to speake of: I would not be so sicke though for his place: But this cannot…
Norff. If it doe, Ile venture one; haue at him.
Suff. I another.
Exeunt Norfolke and Suffolke.
Wol. Your Grace ha's giuen a President of wisedome Aboue all Princes, in committing freely Your scruple to…
Kin. And once more in mine armes I bid him welcome, And thanke the holy Conclaue for their…
Cam. Your Grace must needs deserue all strangers loues, You are so Noble: To your Highnesse hand I…
Kin. Two equall men: The Queene shall be acquain (ted Forthwith for what you come. Where's Gardiner?
Wol. I know your Maiesty, ha's alwayes lou'd her So deare in heart, not to deny her that…
Kin. I, and the best she shall haue; and my fauour To him that does best, God forbid…
Enter Gardiner.
Wol. Giue me your hand: much ioy & fauour to you; You are the Kings now.
Card. But to be commanded For euer by your Grace, whose hand ha's rais'd me.
Kin. Come hither Gardiner.
Walkes and whispers.
Camp. My Lord of Yorke, was not one Doctor Pace In this mans place before him?
Wol. Yes, he was.
Camp. Was he not held a learned man?
Wol. Yes surely.
Camp. Beleeue me, there's an ill opinion spread then, Euen of your selfe Lord Cardinall.
Wol. How? of me?
Camp They will not sticke to say, you enuide him; And fearing he would rise (he was so…
Wol. Heau'ns peace be with him: That's Christian care enough: for liuing Murmurers, There's places of rebuke. He…
Kin. Deliuer this with modesty to th'Queene. Exit Gardiner. The most conuenient place, that I can thinke of…
Exeunt.
Scena Tertia.
Enter Anne Bullen, and an old Lady.
An. Not for that neither; here's the pang that pinches. His Highnesse, hauing liued so long with her,…
Old La. Hearts of most hard temper Melt and lament for her.
An. Oh Gods will, much better She ne're had knowne pompe; though't be temporall, Yet if that quarrell.…
Old L. Alas poore Lady, Shee's a stranger now againe.
An. So much the more Must pitty drop vpon her; verily I sweare, tis better to be lowly…
Old L. Our content Is our best hauing.
Anne. By my troth, and Maidenhead, I would not be a Queene.
Old. L. Beshrew me, I would, And venture Maidenhead for't, and so would you For all this spice…
Anne. Nay, good troth.
Old L. Yes troth, & troth; you would not be a Queen?
Anne. No, not for all the riches vnder Heauen.
Old. L. Tis strange; a threepence bow'd would hire me Old as I am, to Queene it: but…
An. No in truth.
Old. L. Then you are weakly made; plucke off a little, I would not be a young Count…
An. How you doe talke; I sweare againe, I would not be a Queene, For all the world:
Old. L. In faith, for little England You'ld venture an emballing: I my selfe Would for Carnaruanshire, although…
Enter Lord Chamberlaine.
L. Cham. Good morrow Ladies; what wer't worth to (know The secret of your conference?
An. My good Lord, Not your demand; it values not your asking: Our Mistris Sorrowes we were pittying.
Cham. It was a gentle businesse, and becomming The action of good women, there is hope All will…
An. Now I pray God, Amen.
Cham. You beare a gentle minde, & heau'nly blessings Follow such Creatures. That you may, faire Lady Perceiue…
An. I doe not know What kinde of my obedience, I should tender; More then my All, is…
Cham. Lady; I shall not faile t'approue the faire conceit The King hath of you. I haue perus'd…
Exit Lord Chamberlaine.
An. My honour'd Lord.
Old. L. Why this it is: See, see, I haue beene begging sixteene yeares in Court (Am yet…
An. This strange to me.
Old L. How tasts it? Is it bitter? Forty pence, no: There was a Lady once (tis an…
An. Come you are pleasant.
Old. L. With your Theame, I could Ore‑mount the Larke: The Marchionesse of Pembrooke? A thousand pounds a…
An. Good Lady, Make your selfe mirth with your particular fancy, And leaue me out on't. Would I…
Old L. What doe you thinke me —
Exeunt.
Scena Quarta.
Trumpets, Sennet, and Cornets.
Enter two Vergers, with short siluer wands; next them two Scribes in the habite of Doctors; after them,…
Car. Whil'st our Commission from Rome is read, Let silence be commanded.
King. What's the need? It hath already publiquely bene read, And on all sides th'Authority allow'd, You may…
Car. Bee't so, proceed.
Scri. Say, Henry K. of England, come into the Court.
Crier. Henry King of England, &c.
King. Heere.
Scribe. Say, Katherine Queene of England, Come into the Court.
Crier. Katherine Queene of England, &c.
The Queene makes no answer, rises out of her Chaire, goes about the Court, comes to the King,…
Sir, I desire you do me Right and Iustice, And to bestow your pitty on me; for I…
Beseech you Sir, to spare me, till I may Be by my Friends in Spaine, aduis'd; whose Counsaile…
Wol. You haue heere Lady, (And of your choice) these Reuerend Fathers, men Of singular Integrity, and Learning;…
Camp. His Grace Hath spoken well, and iustly: Therefore Madam, It's fit this Royall Session do proceed, And…
Qu. Lord Cardinall, to you I speake.
Wol. Your pleasure, Madam.
Qu. Sir, I am about to weepe; but thinking that We are a Queene (or long haue dream'd…
Wol. Be patient yet.
Qu. I will, when you are humble; Nay before, Or God will punish me. I do beleeue (Induc'd…
Wol. I do professe You speake not like your selfe: who euer yet Haue stood to Charity, and…
Queen. My Lord, my Lord, I am a simple woman, much too weake T'oppose your eunning. Y'are meek,…
She Curtsies to the King, and offers to depart.
Camp. The Queene is obstinate, Stubborne to Iustice, apt to accuse it, and Disdainfull to be tride by't;…
Kin. Call her againe.
Crier. Katherine, Q of England, come into the Court.
Gent. Vsh. Madam, you are cald backe.
Que. What need you note it? pray you keep your way, When you are cald returne. Now the…
Exit Queene, and her Attendants.
Kin. Goe thy wayes Kate, That man i'th'world, who shall report he ha's A better Wife, let him…
Wol. Most gracious Sir, In humblest manner I require your Highnes, That it shall please you to declare…
Kin. My Lord Cardinall, I doe excuse you; yea, vpon mine Honour, I free you from't: You are…
(Well worthy the best Heyre o'th'World) should not Be gladded in't by me. Then followes, that I weigh'd…
B. Lin. Very well my Liedge.
Kin. I haue spoke long, be pleas'd your selfe to say How farre you satisfide me.
Lin. So please your Highnes, The question did at first so stagger me, Bearing a State of mighty…
Kin. I then mou'd you, My Lord of Canterbury, and got your leaue To make this present Summons…
Camp. So please your Highnes, The Queene being absent, 'tis a needfull fitnesse, That we adiourne this Court…
Kin. I may perceiue These Cardinals trifle with me: I abhorre This dilatory sloth, and trickes of Rome.…
Exeunt, in manner as they enter'd.
Actus Tertius. Scena Prima.
Enter Queene and her Women as at worke.
Queen. Take thy Lute wench, My Soule growes sad with troubles, Sing, and disperse 'em if thou canst:…
Enter a Gentleman.
Queen. How now?
Gent. And't please your Grace, the two great Cardinals Wait in the presence.
Queen. Would they speake with me?
Gent. They wil'd me say so Madam.
Queen. Pray their Graces To come neere: what can be their busines With me, a poore weake woman,…
Enter the two Cardinalls, Wolsey & Campian.
Wols. Peace to your Highnesse.
Queen. Your Graces find me heere part of a Houswife, (I would be all) against the worst may…
Wol. May it please you Noble Madam, to withdraw Into your priuate Chamber; we shall giue you The…
Queen. Speake it heere. There's nothing I haue done yet o' my Conscience Deserues a Corner: would all…
Card. Tanta est erga te mentis integritas Regina serenissima.
Queen. O good my Lord, no Latin; I am not such a Truant since my comming, As not…
Card. Noble Lady, I am sorry my integrity shoul breed, (And seruice to his Maiesty and you) So…
Camp. Most honour'd Madam, My Lord of Yorke, out of his Noble nature, Zeale and obedience he still…
Queen. To betray me. My Lords, I thanke you both for your good wills, Ye speake like honest…
Wol. Madam, You wrong the Kings loue with these feares, Your hopes and friends are infinite.
Queen. In England, But little for my profit can you thinke Lords, That any English man dare giue…
Camp. I would your Grace Would leaue your greefes, and take my Counsell.
Queen. How Sir?
Camp. Put your maine cause into the Kings protection, Hee's louing and most gracious. 'Twill be much, Both…
Wol. He tels you rightly.
Queen. Ye tell me what ye wish for both, my ruine: Is this your Christian Councell? Out vpon…
Camp. Your rage mistakes vs.
Queen. The more shame for ye; holy men I thought ye, Vpon my Soule two reuerend Cardinall Vertues:…
Car. Madam, this is a meere distraction, You turne the good we offer, into enuy.
Quee. Ye turne me into nothing. Woe vpon ye, And all such false Professors. Would you haue me…
Camp. Your feares are worse.
Qu. Haue I liu'd thus long (let me speak my selfe, Since Vertue findes no friends) a Wife,…
Car. Madam, you wander from the good We ayme at.
Qu. My Lord, I dare not make my selfe so guiltie, To giue vp willingly that Noble Title…
Car. Pray heare me.
Qu. Would I had neuer trod this English Earth, Or felt the Flatteries that grow vpon it: Ye…
Car. If your Grace Could but be brought to know, our Ends are honest, Youl'd feele more comfort.…
Camp. Madam, you'l finde it so: You wrong your Vertues With these weake Womens feares. A Noble Spirit…
Qu. Do what ye will, my Lords: And pray forgiue me; If I haue vs'd my selfe vnmannerly,…
Exeunt
Scena Secunda.
Enter the Duke of Norfolke, Duke of Suffolke, Lord Surrey, and Lord Chamberlaine.
Norf. If you will now vnite in your Complaints, And force them with a Constancy, the Cardinall Cannot…
Sur. I am ioyfull To meete the least occasion, that may giue me Remembrance of my Father‑in‑Law, the…
Suf. Which of the Peeres Haue vncontemn'd gone by him, or at least Strangely neglected? When did he…
Cham. My Lords, you speake your pleasures: What he deserues of you and me, I know: What we…
Nor. O feare him not, His spell in that is out: the King hath found Matter against him,…
Sur. Sir, I should be glad to heare such Newes as this Once euery houre.
Nor. Beleeue it, this is true. In the Diuorce, his contrarie proceedings Are all vnfolded: wherein he appeares,…
Sur. How came His practises to light?
Suf. Most strangely.
Sur. O how? how?
Suf. The Cardinals Letters to the Pope miscarried, And came to th'eye o'th'King, wherein was read How that…
Sur. Ha's the King this?
Suf. Beleeue it.
Sur. Will this worke?
Cham. The King in this perceiues him, how he coasts And hedges his owne way. But in this…
Sur. Would he had.
Suf. May you be happy in your wish my Lord, For I professe you haue it.
Sur. Now all my ioy Trace the Coniunction.
Suf. My Amen too't.
Nor. All mens.
Suf. There's order giuen for her Coronation: Marry this is yet but yong, and may be left To…
Sur. But will the King Digest this Letter of the Cardinals? The Lord forbid.
Nor. Marry Amen.
Suf. No, no: There be moe Waspes that buz about his Nose, Will make this sting the sooner.…
Cham. Now God incense him, And let him cry Ha, lowder.
Norf. But my Lord When returnes Cranmer?
Suf. He is return'd in his Opinions, which Haue satisfied the King for his Diuorce, Together with all…
Nor. This same Cranmer's A worthy Fellow, and hath tane much paine In the Kings businesse.
Suf. He has, and we shall see him For it, an Arch‑byshop.
Nor. So I heare.
Suf. 'Tis so. Enter Wolsey and Cromwell. The Cardinall.
Nor. Obserue, obserue, hee's moody.
Car. The Packet Cromwell, Gau't you the King?
Crom. To his owne hand, in's Bed‑chamber.
Card. Look'd he o'th'inside of the Paper?
Crom. Presently He did vnseale them; and the first he view'd, He did it with a Serious minde:…
Card. Is he ready to come abroad?
Crom. I thinke by this he is.
Card. Leaue me a while. Exit Cromwell. It shall be to the Dutches of Alanson, The French Kings…
Nor. He's discontented.
Suf. Maybe he heares the King Does whet his Anger to him.
Sur. Sharpe enough, Lord for thy Iustice.
Car. The late Queenes Gentlewoman? A Knights Daughter To be her Mistris Mistris? The Queenes, Queene? This Candle…
Nor. He is vex'd at something.
Enter King, reading of a Scedule.
Sur. I would 'twer somthing yt would fret the string, The Master‑cord on's heart.
Suf. The King, the King.
King. What piles of wealth hath he accumulated To his owne portion? And what expence by'th'houre Seemes to…
Nor. My Lord, we haue Stood heere obseruing him. Some strange Commotion Is in his braine: He bites…
King. It may well be, There is a mutiny in's minde. This morning, Papers of State he sent…
Nor. It's Heauens will, Some Spirit put this paper in the Packet, To blesse your eye withall.
King. If we did thinke His Contemplation were aboue the earth, And fixt on Spirituall obiect, he should…
King takes his Seat, whispers Louell, who goes to the Cardinall.
Car. Heauen forgiue me, Euer God blesse your Highnesse.
King. Good my Lord, You are full of Heauenly stuffe, and beare the Inuentory Of your best Graces,…
Car. Sir, For Holy Offices I haue a time; a time To thinke vpon the part of businesse,…
King. You haue said well.
Car. And euer may your Highnesse yoake together, (As I will lend you cause) my doing Well, With…
King. 'Tis well said agen, And 'tis a kinde of good deede to say well, And yet words…
Car. What should this meane?
Sur. The Lord increase this businesse.
King. Haue I not made you The prime man of the State? I pray you tell me, If…
Car. My Soueraigne, I confesse your Royall graces Showr'd on me daily, haue bene more then could My…
King. Fairely answer'd: A Loyall, and obedient Subiect is Therein illustrated, the Honor of it Does pay the…
Car. I do professe, That for your Highnesse good, I euer labour'd More then mine owne: that am,…
King. 'Tis Nobly spoken: Take notice Lords, he ha's a Loyall brest, For you haue seene him open't.…
Exit King, frowning vpon the Cardinall, the Nobles throng after him smiling, and whispering.
Car. What should this meane? What sodaine Anger's this? How haue I reap'd it? He parted Frowning from…
Enter to Woolsey, the Dukes of Norfolke and Suffolke, the Earle of Surrey, and the Lord Chamberlaine.
Nor. Heare the Kings pleasure Cardinall, Who commands you To render vp rhe Great Seale presently Into our…
Car. Stay: Where's your Commission? Lords, words cannot carrie Authority so weighty.
Suf. Who dare crosse 'em, Bearing the Kings will from his mouth expressely?
Car. Till I finde more then will, or words to do it, (I meane your malice) know, Officious…
Sur. The King that gaue it.
Car. It must be himselfe then.
Sur. Thou art a proud Traitor, Priest.
Car. Proud Lord, thou lyest: Within these fortie houres, Surrey durst better Haue burnt that Tongue, then saide…
Sur. Thy Ambition (Thou Scarlet sinne) robb'd this bewailing Land Of Noble Buckingham, my Father‑in‑Law, The heads of…
Wol. This, and all else This talking Lord can lay vpon my credit, I answer, is most false.…
Sur. By my Soule, Your long Coat (Priest) protects you, Thou should'st feele My Sword i'th'life blood of…
Card. All Goodnesse Is poyson to thy stomacke.
Sur. Yes, that goodnesse Of gleaning all the Lands wealth into one, Into your owne hands (Card'nall) by…
Car. How much me thinkes, I could despise this man, But that I am bound in Charitie against…
Nor. Those Articles, my Lord, are in the Kings hand: But thus much, they are foule ones.
Wol. So much fairer And spotlesse, shall mine Innocence arise, When the King knowes my Truth.
Sur. This cannot saue you: I thanke my Memorie, I yet remember Some of these Articles, and out…
Wol. Speake on Sir, I dare your worst Obiections: If I blush, It is to see a Nobleman…
Sur. I had rather want those, then my head; Haue at you. First, that without the Kings assent…
Nor. Then, That in all you writ to Rome, or else To Forraigne Princes, Ego & Rex meus…
Suf. Then, that without the knowledge Either of King or Councell, when you went Ambassador to the Emperor,…
Sur. Item, You sent a large Commission To Gregory de Cassado, to conclude Without the Kings will, or…
Suf. That out of meere Ambition, you haue caus'd Your holy‑Hat to be stampt on the Kings Coine.
Sur. Then, That you haue sent inumerable substance, (By what meanes got, I leaue to your owne conscience)…
Cham. O my Lord, Presse not a falling man too farre: 'tis Vertue: His faults lye open to…
Sur. I forgiue him.
Suf. Lord Cardinall, the Kings further pleasure is, Bccause all those things you haue done of late By…
Nor. And so wee'l leaue you to your Meditations How to liue better. For your stubborne answer About…
Exeunt all but Wolsey.
Wol. So farewell, to the little good you beare me. Farewell? A long farewell to all my Greatnesse.…
Crom. I haue no power to speake Sir.
Car. What, amaz'd At my misfortunes? Can thy Spirit wonder A great man should decline. Nay, and you…
Crom. How does your Grace.
Card. Why well: Neuer so truly happy, my good Cromwell, I know my selfe now, and I feele…
Crom. I am glad your Grace, Ha's made that right vse of it.
Card. I hope I haue: I am able now (me thinkes) (Out of a Fortitude of Soule, I…
Crom. The heauiest, and the worst, Is your displeasure with the King.
Card. God blesse him.
Crom. The next is, that Sir Thomas Moore is chosen Lord Chancellor, in your place.
Card. That's somewhat sodain. But he's a Learned man. May he continue Long in his Highnesse fauour, and…
Crom. That Cranmer is return'd with welcome; Install'd Lord Arch‑byshop of Canterbury.
Card. That's Newes indeed.
Crom. Last, that the Lady Anne, Whom the King hath in secrecie long married, This day was view'd…
Card. There was the waight that pull'd me downe, O Cromwell, The King ha's gone beyond me: All…
Crom. O my Lord, Must I then leaue you? Must I needes forgo So good, so Noble, and…
Card. Cromwel, I did not thinke to shed a teare In all my Miseries: But thou hast forc'd…
Crom. Good Sir, haue patience.
Card. So I haue. Farewell The Hopes of Court, my Hopes in Heauen do dwell.
Exeunt.
Aetus Quartus. Scena Prima.
Enter two Gentlemen, meeting one another.
1 Y'are well met once againe.
2 So are you.
1 You come to take your stand heere, and behold The Lady Anne, passe from her Corronation.
2 'Tis all my businesse. At our last encounter, The Duke of Buckingham came from his Triall.
1 'Tis very true. But that time offer'd sorrow, This generall ioy.
2 'Tis well: The Citizens I am sure haue shewne at full their Royall minds, As let 'em…
1 Neuer greater, Nor Ile assure you better taken Sir.
2 May I be bold to aske what that containes, That Paper in your hand.
1 Yes, 'tis the List Of those that claime their Offices this day, By custome of the Coronation.…
1 I thanke you Sir: Had I not known those customs, I should haue beene beholding to your…
1 That I can tell you too. The Archbishop Of Canterbury, accompanied with other Learned, and Reuerend Fathers…
2 Alas good Lady. The Trumpets sound: Stand close, The Queene is comming.
Ho‑boyes.
The Order of the Coronation.
Musicke.
Exeunt, first passing ouer the Stage in Order and State, and then, A great Flourish of Trumpets.
2 A Royall Traine beleeue me: These I know: Who's that that beares the Scepter?
1 Marquesse Dorset, And that the Earle of Surrey, with the Rod.
2 A bold braue Gentleman. That should bee The Duke of Suffolke.
1 'Tis the same: high Steward.
2 And that my Lord of Norfolke?
1 Yes.
2 Heauen blesse thee, Thou hast the sweetest face I euer look'd on. Sir, as I haue a…
1 They that beare The Cloath of Honour ouer her, are foure Barons Of the Cinque Ports.
2 Those men are happy, And so are all, are neere her. I take it, she that carries…
1 It is, and all the rest are Countesses.
2 Their Coronets say so. These are Starres indeed, And sometimes falling ones.
2 No more of that.
Enter third Gentleman.
1 God saue you Sir. Where haue you bin broiling?
3 Among the crow'd i'th'Abbey, where a finger Could not be wedg'd in more: I am stifled With…
2 You saw the Ceremony?
3 That I did.
1 How was it?
3 Well worth the seeing.
2 Good Sir, speake it to vs?
3 As well as I am able. The rich streame Of Lords, and Ladies, hauing brought the Queene…
2 But what follow'd?
3 At length, her Grace rose, and with modest paces Came to the Altar, where she kneel'd, and…
1 Sir, You must no more call it Yorke‑place, that's past: For since the Cardinall fell, that Titles…
3 I know it: But 'tis so lately alter'd, that the old name Is fresh about me.
2 What two Reuerend Byshops Were those that went on each side of the Queene?
3 Stokeley and Gardiner, the one of Winchester, Newly preferr'd from the Kings Secretary: The other London.
2 He of Winchester Is held no great good louer of the Archbishops, The vertuous Cranmer.
3 All the Land knowes that: How euer, yet there is no great breach, when it comes Cranmer…
2 Who may that be, I pray you.
3 Thomas Cromwell, A man in much esteeme with th'King, and truly A worthy Friend. The King ha's…
2 He will deserue more.
3 Yes without all doubt. Come Gentlemen, ye shall go my way, Which is to'th Court, and there…
Both. You may command vs Sir.
Exeunt.
Scena Secunda.
Enter Katherine Dowager, sicke, lead betweene Griffith, her Gentleman Vsher, and Patience her Woman.
Grif. How do's your Grace?
Kath. O Griffith, sicke to death: My Legges like loaden Branches bow to'th'Earth, Willing to leaue their burthen:…
Grif. Yes Madam: but I thanke your Grace Out of the paine you suffer'd, gaue no eare too't.
Kath. Pre'thee good Griffith, tell me how he dy'de. If well, he stept before me happily For my…
Grif. Well, the voyce goes Madam, For after the stout Earle Northumberland Arrested him at Yorke, and brought…
Kath. Alas poore man.
Grif. At last, with easie Rodes, he came to Leicester, Lodg'd in the Abbey; where the reuerend Abbot…
Kath. So may he rest, His Faults lye gently on him: Yet thus farre Griffith, giue me leaue…
Grif. Noble Madam: Mens euill manners, liue in Brasse, their Vertues We write in Water. May it please…
Kath. Yes good Griffith, I were malicious else.
Grif. This Cardinall, Though from an humble Stocke, vndoubtedly Was fashion'd to much Honor. From his Cradle He…
Kath. After my death, I wish no other Herald, No other speaker of my liuing Actions, To keepe…
Sad and solemne Musicke.
Grif. She is asleep: Good wench, let's sit down quiet, For feare we wake her. Softly, gentle Patience.
The Vision.
Enter solemnely tripping one after another, sixe Personages, clad in white Robes, wearing on their heades Garlands of…
Kath. Spirits of peace, where are ye? Are ye all gone? And leaue me heere in wretchednesse, behinde…
Grif. Madam, we are heere.
Kath. It is not you I call for, Saw ye none enter since I slept?
Grif. None Madam.
Kath. No? Saw you not euen now a blessed Troope Inuite me to a Banquet, whose bright faces…
Grif. I am most ioyfull Madam, such good dreames Possesse your Fancy.
Kath. Bid the Musicke leaue, They are harsh and heauy to me.
Musicke ceases.
Pati. Do you note How much her Grace is alter'd on the sodaine? How long her face is…
Grif. She is going Wench. Pray, pray.
Pati. Heauen comfort her.
Enter a Messenger.
Mes. And't like your Grace—
Kath. You are a sawcy Fellow, Deserue we no more Reuerence?
Grif. You are too blame, Knowing she will not loose her wonted Greatnesse To vse so rude behauiour.…
Mes. I humbly do entreat your Highnesse pardon, My hast made me vnmannerly. There is staying A Gentleman…
Kath. Admit him entrance Griffith. But this Fellow Let me ne're see againe. Exit Messeng. Enter Lord Capuchius.…
Cap. Madam the same. Your Seruant.
Kath. O my Lord, The Times and Titles now are alter'd strangely With me, since first you knew…
Cap. Noble Lady, First mine owne seruice to your Grace, the next The Kings request, that I would…
Kath. O my good Lord, that comfort comes too late, 'Tis like a Pardon after Execution; That gentle…
Cap. Madam, in good health.
Kath. So may he euer do, and euer flourish, When I shall dwell with Wormes, and my poore…
Pat. No Madam.
Kath. Sir, I most humbly pray you to deliuer This to my Lord the King.
Cap. Most willing Madam.
Kath. In which I haue commended to his goodnesse The Modell of our chaste loues: his yong daughter,…
Cap. By Heauen I will, Or let me loose the fashion of a man.
Kath. I thanke you honest Lord. Remember me In all humilitie vnto his Highnesse: Say his long trouble…
Exeunt leading Katherine.
Actus Quintus. Scena Prima.
Enter Gardiner Bishop of Winchester, a Page with a Torch before him, met by Sir Thomas Louell.
Gard. It's one a clocke Boy, is't not.
Boy. It hath strooke.
Gard. These should be houres for necessities, Not for delights: Times to repayre our Nature With comforting repose,…
Lou. Came you from the King, my Lord?
Gar. I did Sir Thomas, and left him at Primero With the Duke of Suffolke.
Lou. I must to him too Before he go to bed. Ile take my leaue.
Gard. Not yet Sir Thomas Louell: what's the matter? It seemes you are in hast: and if there…
Lou. My Lord, I loue you; And durst commend a secret to your eare Much waightier then this…
Gard. The fruite she goes with I pray for heartily, that it may finde Good time, and liue:…
Lou. Me thinkes I could Cry the Amen, and yet my Conscience sayes Shee's a good Creature, and…
Gard. But Sir, Sir, Heare me Sir Thomas, y'are a Gentleman Of mine owne way. I know you…
Louell. Now Sir, you speake of two The most remark'd i'th'Kingdome; as for Cromwell, Beside that of the…
Gard. Yes, yes, Sir Thomas, There are that Dare, and I my selfe haue ventur'd To speake my…
Exit Gardiner and Page.
Lou. Many good nights, my Lord, I rest your seruant.
Enter King and Suffolke.
King. Charles, I will play no more to night, My mindes not on't, you are too hard for…
Suff. Sir, I did neuer win of you before.
King. But little Charles, Nor shall not when my Fancies on my play. Now Louel, from the Queene…
Lou. I could not personally deliuer to her What you commanded me, but by her woman, I sent…
King. What say'st thou? Ha? To pray for her? What, is she crying out?
Lou. So said her woman, and that her suffrance made Almost each pang, a death.
King. Alas good Lady.
Suf. God safely quit her of her Burthen, and With gentle Trauaile, to the gladding of Your Highnesse…
King. 'Tis midnight Charles, Prythee to bed, and in thy Prayres remember Th'estate of my poore Queene. Leaue…
Suf. I wish your Highnesse A quiet night, and my good Mistris will Remember in my Prayers.
King. Charles good night. Exit Suffolke. Well Sir, what followes?
Enter Sir Anthony Denny.
Den. Sir, I haue brought my Lord the Arch‑byshop, As you commanded me.
King. Ha? Canterbury?
Den. I my good Lord.
King. 'Tis true: where is he Denny?
Den. He attends your Highnesse pleasure.
King. Bring him to Vs.
Lou. This is about that, which the Byshop spake, I am happily come hither.
Enter Cranmer and Denny.
King. Auoyd the Gallery. Louel seemes to stay. Ha? I haue said. Be gone. What?
Exeunt Louell and Denny.
Cran. I am fearefull: Wherefore frownes he thus? 'Tis his Aspect of Terror. All's not well.
King. How now my Lord? You do desire to know wherefore I sent for you.
Cran. It is my dutie T'attend your Highnesse pleasure.
King. Pray you arise My good and gracious Lord of Canterburie: Come, you and I must walke a…
Cran. I humbly thanke your Highnesse, And am right glad to catch this good occasion Most throughly to…
King. Stand vp, good Canterbury, Thy Truth, and thy Integrity is rooted In vs thy Friend. Giue me…
Cran. Most dread Liege, The good I stand on, is my Truth and Honestie: If they shall faile,…
King. Know you not How your state stands i'th'world, with the whole world? Your Enemies are many, and…
Cran. God, and your Maiesty Protect mine innocence, or I fall into The trap is laid for me.
King. Be of good cheere, They shall no more preuaile, then we giue way too: Keepe comfort to…
Enter Olde Lady.
Gent. within. Come backe: what meane you?
Lady. Ile not come backe, the tydings that I bring Will make my boldnesse, manners. Now good Angels…
King. Now by thy lookes I gesse thy Message. Is the Queene deliuer'd? Say I, and of a…
Lady. I, I my Liege, And of a louely Boy: the God of heauen Both now, and euer…
King. Louell.
Lou. Sir.
King. Giue her an hundred Markes. Ile to the Queene.
Exit King.
Lady. An hundred Markes? By this light, Ile ha more. An ordinary Groome is for such payment. I…
Exit Ladie.
Scena Secunda.
Enter Cranmer, Archbyshop of Canterbury.
Cran. I hope I am not too late, and yet the Gentleman That was lent to me from…
Enter Keeper.
Keep. Yes, my Lord: But yet I cannot helpe you.
Cran. Why?
Keep. Your Grace must waight till you be call'd for.
Enter Doctor Buts.
Cran. So.
Buts. This is a Peere of Malice: I am glad I came this way so happily. The King…
Exit Buts
Cran. 'Tis Buts. The Kings Physitian, as he past along How earnestly he cast his eyes vpon me;…
Enter the King, and Buts, at a Windowe aboue.
Buts. Ile shew your Grace the strangest sight.
King. What's that Buts?
Butts. I thinke your Highnesse saw this many a day.
Kin. Body a me: where is it?
Butts, There my Lord: The high promotion of his Grace of Canterbury, Who holds his State at dore…
Kin. Ha? 'Tis he indeed. Is this the Honour they doe one another? 'Tis well there's one aboue…
A Councell Table brought in with Chayres and Stooles, and placed vnder the State. Enter Lord Chancellour, places…
Chan. Speake to the businesse, M. Secretary; Why are we met in Councell?
Crom. Please your Honours, The chiefe cause concernes his Grace of Canterbury.
Gard. Ha's he had knowledge of it?
Crom. Yes.
Norf. Who waits there?
Keep. Without my Noble Lords?
Gard. Yes.
Keep. My Lord Archbishop: And ha's done halfe an houre to know your pleasures.
Chan. Let him come in.
Keep. Your Grace may enter now.
Cranmer approches the Councell Table.
Chan. My good Lord Archbishop, I'm very sorry To sit heere at this present, and behold That Chayre…
Gard. Which Reformation must be sodaine too My Noble Lords; for those that tame wild Horses, Pace 'em…
Cran. My good Lords; Hitherto, in all the Progresse Both of my Life and Office, I haue labour'd,…
Suff. Nay, my Lord, That cannot be; you are a Counsellor, And by that vertue no man dare…
Gard. My Lord, because we haue busines of more mo (ment, We will be short with you. 'Tis…
Cran. Ah my good Lord of Winchester: I thanke you, You are alwayes my good Friend, if your…
Gard. My Lord, my Lord, you are a Sectary, That's the plaine truth; your painted glosse discouers To…
Crom. My Lord of Winchester, y'are a little, By your good fauour, too sharpe; Men of Noble, How…
Gard. Good M. Secretary, I cry your Honour mercie; you may worst Of all this Table say so.
Crom. Why my Lord?
Gard. Doe not I know you for a Fauourer Of this new Sect? ye are not sound.
Crom. Not sound?
Gard. Not sound I say.
Crom. Would you were halfe so honest: Mens prayers then would seeke you, not their feares.
Gard. I shall remember this bold Language.
Crom. Doe. Remember your bold life too.
Cham. This is too much; Forbeare for shame my Lords.
Gard. I haue done.
Crom. And I.
Cham. Then thus for you my Lord, it stands agreed I take it, by all voyces: That forthwith,…
All. We are.
Cran. Is there no other way of mercy, But I must needs to th'Tower my Lords?
Gard. What other, Would you expect? You are strangely troublesome: Let some o'th'Guard be ready there.
Enter the Guard.
Cran. For me? Must I goe like a Traytor thither?
Gard. Receiue him, And see him safe i'th'Tower.
Cran. Stay good my Lords, I haue a little yet to say. Looke there my Lords, By vertue…
Cham. This is the Kings Ring.
Sur. 'Tis no counterfeit.
Suff. 'Ts the right Ring, by Heau'n: I told ye all, When we first put this dangerous stone…
Norf. Doe you thinke my Lords The King will suffer but the little finger Of this man to…
Cham. Tis now too certaine; How much more is his Life in value with him? Would I were…
Crom. My mind gaue me, In seeking tales and Informations Against this man, whose honesty the Diuell And…
Enter King frowning on them, takes his Seate.
Gard. Dread Soueraigne, How much are we bound to Heauen, In dayly thankes; that gaue vs such a…
Kin. You were euer good at sodaine Commendations, Bishop of Winchester. But know I come not To heare…
Sur. May it please your Grace;—
Kin. No Sir, it doe's not please me, I had thought, I had had men of some vnderstanding,…
Chan. Thus farre My most dread Soueraigne, may it like your Grace, To let my tongue excuse all.…
Kin. Well, well my Lords respect him, Take him, and vse him well; hee's worthy of it. I…
Cran. The greatest Monarch now aliue may glory In such an honour: how may I deserue it, That…
Kin. Come, come my Lord, you'd spare your spoones; You shall haue two noble Partners with you: the…
Gard. With a true heart, And Brother; loue I doe it.
Cran. And let Heauen Witnesse how deare, I hold this Confirmation.
Kin. Good Man, those ioyfull teares shew thy true (hearts, The common voyce I see is verified Of…
Exeunt.
Scena Tertia.
Noyse and Tumult within: Enter Porter and his man.
Port. You'l leaue your noyse anon ye Rascals: doe you take the Court for Parish Garden: ye rude…
Port. Belong to th'Gallowes, and be hang'd ye Rogue: Is this a place to roare in? Fetch me…
Man. Pray Sir be patient; 'tis as much impossible, Vnlesse wee sweepe 'em f□om the dore with Cannons,…
Por. How got they in, and be hang'd?
Man. Alas I know not, how gets the Tide in? As much as one sound Cudgell of foure…
Port. You did nothing Sir.
Man. I am not Sampson, nor Sir Guy, nor Colebrand, To mow 'em downe before me: but if…
Port. I shall be with you presently, good M. Puppy, Keepe the dore close Sirha.
Man. What would you haue me doe?
Por. What should you doe, But knock 'em downe by th'dozens? Is this More fields to muster in?…
Man. The Spoones will be the bigger Sir: There is a fellow somewhat neere the doore, he should…
Por. These are the youths that thunder at a Playhouse, and fight for bitten Apples, that no Audience…
Enter Lord Chamberlaine.
Cham. Mercy o'me: what a Multitude are heere? They grow still too; from all Parts they are comming,…
Por. And't please your Honour, We are but men; and what so many may doe, Not being torne…
Cham. As I liue, If the King blame me for't; Ile lay ye all By th'heeles, and sodainly:…
Por. Make way there, for the Princesse.
Man. You great fellow, Stand close vp, or Ile make your head ake.
Por. You i'th'Chamblet, get vp o'th'raile, Ile pecke you o're the pales else.
Exeunt.
Scena Quarta.
Enter Trumpets sounding: Then two Aldermen, L. Maior, Garter, Cranmer, Duke of Norfolke with his Marshals Staffe, Duke…
Gart. Heauen From thy endlesse goodnesse, send prosperous life, Long, and euer happie, to the high and Mighty…
Flourish. Enter King and Guard.
Cran. And to your Royall Grace, & the good Queen, My Noble Partners, and my selfe thus pray…
Kin. Thanke you good Lord Archbishop: What is her Name?
Cran. Elizabeth.
Kin. Stand vp Lord, With this Kisse, take my Blessing: God protect thee, into whose hand, I giue…
Cran. Amen.
Kin. My Noble Gossips, y'haue beene too Prodigall; I thanke ye heartily: So shall this Lady, When she…
Cran. Let me speake Sir, For Heauen now bids me; and the words I vtter, Let none thinke…
Shall be, and make new Nations. He shall flourish, And like a Mountaine Cedar, reach his branches, To…
Kin. Thou speakest wonders.
Cran. She shall be to the happinesse of England, An aged Princesse; many dayes shall see her, And…
Kin. O Lord Archbishop Thou hast made me now a man, neuer before This happy Child, did I…
Exeunt.
THE EPILOGVE.
TIs ten to one, this Play can neuer please
All that are heere: Some come to take their ease,
And sleepe an Act or two; but tbose we feare
W'haue frighted with our Tumpets: so 'tis cleare,
They'll say tis naught. Others to heare the City
Abus'd extreamly, and to cry that's witty,
Which wee haue not done neither; that I feare
All the expected good w'are like to heare.
For this Play at this time, is onely in
The mercifull construction of good women,
For such a one we shew'd 'em: If they smile,
And say twill doe; I know within a while,
All the best men are ours; for 'tis ill hap,
If they hold, when their Ladies bid 'em clap.