The Tragedie of King Lear
William Shakespeare
Original text: Bodleian Libraries · Shakespeare First Folio (1623), Bodleian Library Arch. G c.7; diplomatic TEI transcription
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The Tragedie of King Lear.
Actus Primus. Scœna Prima.
Enter Kent, Gloucester, and Edmond.
Kent. I Thought the King had more affected the Duke of Albany, then Cornwall.
Glou. It did alwayes seeme so to vs: But now in the diuision of the Kingdome, it ap…
Kent. Is not this your Son, my Lord?
Glou. His breeding Sir, hath bin at my charge. I haue so often blush'd to acknowledge him, that…
Kent. I cannot conceiue you.
Glou. Sir, this yong Fellowes mother could; wherevpon she grew round womb'd, and had indeede (Sir) a Sonne…
Kent. I cannot wish the fault vndone, the issue of it, being so proper.
Glou. But I haue a Sonne, Sir, by order of Law, some yeere elder then this; who, yet…
Edm. No, my Lord.
Glou. My Lord of Kent: Remember him heereafter, as my Honourable Friend.
Edm. My seruices to your Lordship.
Kent. I must loue you, and sue to know you better.
Edm. Sir, I shall study deseruing.
Glou. He hath bin out nine yeares, and away he shall againe. The King is comming.
Sennet.
Enter King Lear, Cornwall, Albany, Gonerill, Re gan, Cordelia,[missing 1 units]and attendants.
Lear. Attend the Lords of France & Burgundy, Gloster
Glou. I shall, my Lord.
Exit.
Lear. Meane time we shal expresse our darker purpose. Giue me the Map there. Know, that we haue…
Gon. Sir, I loue you more then word can weild y matter, Deerer then eye‐sight, space, and libertie,…
Cor. What shall Cordelia speake? Loue, and be silent.
Lear. Of all these bounds euen from this Line, to this, With shadowie Forrests, and with Champains rich'd…
Reg. I am made of that selfe‐mettle as my Sister, And prize me at her worth. In my…
Cor. Then poore Cordelia, And yet not so, since I am sure my loue's More ponderous then my…
Lear. To thee, and thine hereditarie euer, Remaine this ample third of our faire Kingdome, No lesse in…
Cor. Nothing my Lord.
Lear. Nothing?
Cor. Nothing.
Lear. Nothing will come of nothing, speake againe.
Cor. Vnhappie that I am, I cannot heaue My heart into my mouth: I loue your Maiesty According…
Lear. How, how Cordelia? Mend your speech a little, Least you may marre your Fortunes.
Cor. Good my Lord, You haue begot me, bred me, lou'd me. I returne those duties backe as…
Lear. But goes thy heart with this?
Cor. I my good Lord.
Lear. So young, and so vntender?
Cor. So young my Lord, and true.
Lear. Let it be so, thy truth then be thy dowre: For by the sacred radience of the…
Kent. Good my Liege.
Lear. Peace Kent, Come not betweene the Dragon and his wrath, I lou'd her most, and thought to…
Kent. Royall Lear, Whom I haue euer honor'd as my King, Lou'd as my Father, as my Master…
Le. The bow is bent & drawne, make from the shaft.
Kent. Let it fall rather, though the forke inuade The region of my heart, be Kent vnmannerly, When…
Lear. Kent, on thy life no more.
Kent. My life I neuer held but as pawne To wage against thine enemies, nere feare to loose…
Lear. Out of my sight.
Kent. See better Lear, and let me still remaine The true blanke of thine eie.
Kear. Now by Apollo.
Lent. Now by Apollo, King Thou swear'st thy Gods in vaine.
Lear. O Vassall! Miscreant.
Alb. Cor. Deare Sir forbeare.
Kent. Kill thy Physition, and thy fee bestow Vpon the foule disease, reuoke thy guift, Or whil'st I…
Lea. Heare me recreant, on thine allegeance heare me; That thou hast sought to make vs breake our…
Kent. Fare thee well King, sith thus thou wilt appeare, Freedome liues hence, and banishment is here; The…
Exit.
Flourish.
Enter Gloster with France, and Burgundy, Attendants.
Cor. Heere's France and Burgundy, my Noble Lord.
Lear. My Lord of Burgundie, We first addresse toward you, who with this King Hath riuald for our…
Bur. Most Royall Maiesty, I craue no more then hath your Highnesse offer'd, Nor will you tender lesse?
Lear. Right Noble Burgundy, When she was deare to vs, we did hold her so, But now her…
Bur. I know no answer.
Lear. Will you with those infirmities she owes, Vnfriended, new adopted to our hate, Dow'rd with our curse,…
Bur. Pardon me Royall Sir, Election makes not vp in such conditions.
Le. Then leaue her sir, for by the powre that made me, I tell you all her wealth.…
Fra. This is most strange, That she whom euen but now, was your obiect, The argument of your…
Cor. I yet beseech your Maiesty. If for I want that glib and oylie Art, To speake and…
Lear. Better thou had'st[missing 1 units] Not beene borne, then not t'haue pleas'd me better.
Fra. Is it but this? A tardinesse in nature, Which often leaues the history vnspoke That it intends…
Bur. RoyallKing, Giue but that portion which your selfe propos'd, And here I take Cordelia by the hand,…
Lear. Nothing, I haue sworne, I am firme.
Bur. I am sorry then you haue so lost a Father, That you must loose a husband.
Cor. Peace be with Burgundie, Since that respect and Fortunes are his loue, I shall not be his…
Fra. Fairest Cordelia, that art most rich being poore, Most choise forsaken, and most lou'd despis'd, Thee and…
Lear. Thou hast her France, let her be thine, for we Haue no such Daughter, nor shall euer…
Flo[missing 1 units]ri[missing 1 units]h.
Exeunt.
Fra. Bid farwell to your Sisters.
Cor. The Iewels of our Father, with wash'd eies Cordelia leaues you, I know you what you are,…
Regn. Prescribe not vs our dutie.
Gon. Let your study Be to content your Lord, who hath receiu'd you At Fortunes almes, you haue…
Cor. Time shall vnfold what plighted cunning hides, Who couers faults, at last with shame derides: Well may…
Fra. Come my faire Cordelia.
Exit France and Cor.
Gon. Sister, it is not little I haue to say, Of what most neerely appertaines to vs both,…
Reg. That's most certaine, and with you: next moneth
Gon. You see how full of changes his age is, the obseruation we haue made of it hath…
Reg. 'Tis the infirmity of his age, yet he hath euer but slenderly knowne himself.
Gon. The best and soundest of his time hath bin but rash, then must we looke from his…
Reg. Such vnconstant starts are we like to haue from him, as this of Kents banishment.
Gon. There is further complement of leaue‐taking betweene France and him, pray you let vs sit together, if…
Reg. We shall further thinke of it.
Gon. We must do something, and i'th' heate.
Exeunt.
Scena Secunda.
Enter Bastard.
Bast. Thou Nature art my Goddesse, to thy Law My seruices are bound, wherefore should I Stand in…
Enter Gloucester.
Glo. Kent banish'd thus? and France in choller parted? And the King gone to night? Prescrib'd his powre,…
Bast. So please your Lordship, none.
Glou. Why so earnestly seeke you to put vp y Letter?
Bast. I know no newes, my Lord.
Glou. What Paper were you reading?
Bast. Nothing my Lord.
Glou. No? what needed then that terrible dispatch of it into your Pocket? The quality of nothing, hath…
Bast. I beseech you Sir, pardon mee; it is a Letter from my Brother, that I haue not…
Glou. Giue me the Letter, Sir.
Bast. I shall offend, either to detaine, or giue it: The Contents, as in part I vnderstand them,…
Glou. Let's see, let's see.
Bast. I hope for my Brothers iustification, hee wrote this but as an essay, or taste of my…
Glou.reads. This policie, and reuerence of Age, makes the world bitter to the best of our times: keepes…
Bast. It was not brought mee, my Lord; there's the cunning of it. I found it throwne in…
Glou. You know the character to be your Brothers?
Bast. If the matter were good my Lord, I durst swear it were his: but in respect of…
Glou. It is his.
Bast. It is his hand, my Lord: but I hope his heart is not in the Contents.
Glo. Has he neuer before sounded you in this busines?
Bast. Neuer my Lord. But I haue heard him oft maintaine it to be fit, that Sonnes at…
Glou. O Villain, villain: his very opinion in the Letter. Abhorred Villaine, vnnaturall, detested, brutish Villaine; worse then…
Bast. I do not well know my L. If it shall please you to suspend your indignation against…
Glou. Thinke you so?
Bast. If your Honor iudge it meete, I will place you where you shall heare vs conferre of…
Glou. He cannot bee such a Monster. Edmond seeke him out: winde me into him, I pray you:…
Bast. I will seeke him Sir, presently: conuey the businesse as I shall find meanes, and acquaint you…
Glou. These late Eclipses in the Sun and Moone portend no good to vs: though the wisedome of…
Exit
Bast. This is the excellent foppery of the world, that when we are sicke in fortune, often the…
Enter Edgar.
Pat: he comes like the Catastrophe of the old Comedie: my Cue is villanous Melancholly, with a sighe…
Edg. How now Brother Edmond, what serious contemplation are you in?
Bast. I am thinking Brother of a prediction I read this other day, what should follow these Eclipses.
Edg. Do you busie your selfe with that?
Bast. I promise you, the effects he writes of, succeede vnhappily. When saw you my Father last?
Edg. The night gone by.
Bast. Spake you with him?
Edg. I, two houres together.
Bast. Parted you in good termes? Found you no displeasure in him, by word, nor countenance?
Edg. None at all,
Bast. Bethink your selfe wherein you may haue offended him: and at my entreaty forbeare his presence, vntill…
Edg. Some Villaine hath done me wrong.
Edm. That's my feare, I pray you haue a continent forbear ance till the speed of his rage…
Edg. Arm'd, Brother?
Edm. Brother, I aduise you to the best, I am no honest man, if ther be any good…
Edg. Shall I heare from you anon?
Exit.
Edm. I do serue you in this businesse: A Credulous Father, and a Brother Noble, Whose nature is…
Exit.
Scena Tertia.
Enter Gonerill, and Steward.
Gon. Did my Father strike my Gentleman for chiding of his Foole?
Ste. I Madam.
Gon. By day and night, he wrongs me, euery howre He flashes into one grosse crime, or other,…
Ste. He's comming Madam, I heare him.
Gon. Put on what weary negligence you please, You and your Fellowes: I'de haue it come to question;…
Ste. Well Madam.
Gon. And let his Knights haue colder lookes among you: what growes of it no matter, aduise your…
Exeunt.
Scena Quarta.
Enter Kent.
Kent. If but as will I other accents borrow, That can my speech defuse, my good intent May…
Hornes within.
Enter Lear and Attendants.
Lear. Let me not stay a iot for dinner, go get it ready: how now, what art thou?
Kent. A man Sir.
Lear. What dost thou professe? What would'st thou with vs?
Kent. I do professe to be no lesse then I seeme; to serue him truely that will put…
Lear. What art thou?
Kent. A very honest hearted Fellow, and as poore as the King.
Lear. If thou be'st as poore for a subiect, as hee's for a King, thou art poore enough.…
Kent. Seruice.
Lear. Who wouldst thou serue?
Kent. You.
Lear. Do'st thou know me fellow?
Kent. No Sir, but you haue that in your countenance, which I would faine call Master.
Lear. What's that?
Kent. Authority.
Lear. What seruices canst thou do?
Kent. I can keepe honest counsaile, ride, run, marre a curious tale in telling it, and deliuer a…
Lear. How old art thou?
Kent. Not so young Sir to loue a woman for singing, nor so old to dote on her…
Lear. Follow me, thou shalt serue me, if I like thee no worse after dinner, I will not…
Enter Steward.
Ste. So please you ———
Exit.
Lear. What saies the Fellow there? Call the Clotpole backe: wher's my Foole? Ho, I thinke the world's…
Knigh. He saies my Lord, your Daughters is not well.
Lear. Why came not the slaue backe to me when I call'd him?
Knigh. Sir, he answered me in the roundest manner, he would not.
Lear. He would not?
Knight. My Lord, I know not what the matter is, but to my iudgement your Highnesse is not…
Lear. Ha[missing 1 units] Saist thou so?
Knigh. I beseech you pardon me my Lord, if I bee mistaken, for my duty cannot be silent,…
Lear. Thou but remembrest me of mine owne Conception, I haue perceiued a most faint neglect of late,…
Knight. Since my young Ladies going into France Sir, the Foole hath much pined away.
Lear. No more of that, I haue noted it well, goe you and tell my Daughter, I would…
Enter Steward.
Ste. My Ladies Father.
Lear. My Ladies Father? my Lords knaue, you whorson dog, you slaue, you curre.
Ste. I am none of these my Lord, I beseech your pardon.
Lear. Do you bandy lookes with me, you Rascall?
Ste. Ile not be strucken my Lord.
Kent. Nor tript neither, you base Foot‐ball plaier.
Lear. I thanke thee fellow. Thou seru'st me, and Ile loue thee.
Kent. Come sir, arise, away, Ile teach you differences: away, away, if you will measure your lubbers length…
Lear. Now my friendly knaue I thanke thee, there's earnest of thy seruice.
Enter Foole.
Foole. Let me hire him too, here's my Coxcombe.
Lear. How now my pretty knaue, how dost thou?
Foole. Sirrah, you were best take my Coxcombe.
Lear. Why my Boy?
Foole. Why? for taking ones part that's out of fauour, nay, & thou canst not smile as the…
Lear. Why my Boy?
Fool. If I gaue them all my liuing, I'ld keepe my Coxcombes my selfe, there's mine, beg another…
Lear. Take heed Sirrah, the whip.
Foole. Truth's a dog must to kennell, hee must bee whipt out, when the Lady Brach may stand…
Lear. A pestilent gall to me.
Foole. Sirha, Ile teach thee a speech.
Lear. Do.
Foole. Marke it Nuncle; Haue more then thou showest, Speake lesse then thou knowest, Lend lesse then thou…
Kent. This is nothing Foole.
Foole. Then 'tis like the breath of an vnfeed Lawyer, you gaue me nothing for't, can you make…
Lear. Why no Boy, Nothing can be made out of nothing.
Foole. Prythee tell him, so much the rent of his land comes to, he will not beleeue a…
Lear. A bitter Foole.
Foole. Do'st thou know the difference my Boy, betweene a bitter Foole, and a sweet one.
Lear. No Lad, teach me.
Foole. Nunckle, giue me an egge, and Ile giue thee two Crownes.
Lear. What two Crownes shall they be?
Foole. Why after I haue cut the egge i'th' middle and eate vp the meate, the two Crownes…
Le. When were you wont to be so full of Songs sirrah?
Foole. I haue vsed it Nunckle, ere since thou mad'st thy Daughters thy Mothers, for when thou gau'st…
Lear. And you lie sirrah, wee'l haue you whipt.
Foole. I maruell what kin thou and thy daughters are, they'l haue me whipt for speaking true: thou'lt…
Enter Gonerill.
Lear. How now Daughter? what makes that Frontlet on? You are too much of late i'th' frowne.
Foole. Thou wast a pretty fellow when thou hadst no need to care for her frowning, now thou…
Gon. Not only Sir this, your all‐lycenc'd Foole, But other of your insolent retinue Do hourely Carpe and…
Foole. For you know Nunckle, the Hedge‐Sparrow fed the Cuckoo so long, that it's had it head bit…
Lear. Are you our Daughter?
Gon. I would you would make vse of your good wisedome (Whereof I know you are fraught), and…
Foole. May not an Asse know, when the Cart drawes the Horse? Whoop Iugge I loue thee.
Lear. Do's any heere know me? This is not Lear: Do's Lear walke thus? Speake thus? Where are…
Foole. Lears shadow.
Lear. Your name, faire Gentlewoman?
Gon. This admiration Sir, is much o'th' sauour Of other your new prankes. I do beseech you To…
Lear. Darknesse, and Diuels. Saddle my horses: call my Traine together. Degenerate Bastard, Ile not trouble thee; Yet…
Gon. You strike my people, and your disorder'd rable, make Seruants of their Betters.
Enter Albany.
Lear. Woe, that too late repents: Is it your will, speake Sir? Prepare my Horses. Ingratitude! thou Marble‐hearted…
Alb. Pray Sir be patient.
Lear. Detested Kite, thou lyest. My Traine are men of choice, and rarest parts, That all particulars of…
Alb. My Lord, I am guiltlesse, as I am ignorant Of what hath moued you.
Lear. It may be so, my Lord. Heare Nature, heare deere Goddesse, heare: Suspend thy purpose, if thou…
Exit.
Alb. Now Gods that we adore, Whereof comes this?
Gon. Neuer afflict your selfe to know more of it: But let his disposition haue that scope As…
Enter Lear.
Lear. What fiftie of my Followers at a clap? Within a fortnight?
Alb. What's the matter, Sir?
Lear. Ile tell thee: Life and death, I am asham'd That thou hast power to shake my manhood…
Exit
Gon. Do you marke that?
Alb. I cannot be so partiall Gonerill, To the great loue I beare you.
Gon. Pray you content. What Oswald, hoa? You Sir, more Knaue then Foole, after your Master.
Foole. Nunkle Lear, Nunkle Lear, Tarry, take the Foole with thee: A Fox, when one has caught her,…
Exit
Gon. This man hath had good Counsell, A hundred Knights? 'Tis politike, and safe to let him keepe…
Alb. Well, you may feare too farre.
Gon. Safer then trust too farre; Let me still take away the harmes I feare, Not feare still…
Stew. I Madam.
Gon. Take you some company, and away to horse, Informe her full of my particular feare, And thereto…
Alb. How farre your eies may pierce I cannot tell; Striuing to better, oft we marre what's well.
Gon. Nay then ———
Alb. Well, well, th'euent.
Exeunt.
Scena Quinta.
Enter Lear, Kent, Gentleman, and Foole.
Lear. Go you before to Gloster with these Letters; acquaint my Daughter no further with any thing you…
Kent. I will not sleepe my Lord, till I haue deliuered your Letter.
Exit.
Foole. If a mans braines were in's heeles, wert not in danger of kybes?
Lear. I Boy.
Foole. Then I prythee be merry, thy wit shall not go slip‐shod.
Lear. Ha, ha, ha.
Fool. Shalt see thy other Daughter will vse thee kindly, for though she's as like this, as a…
Lear. What can'st tell Boy?
Foole. She will taste as like this as, a Crabbe do's to a Crab: thou canst, tell why…
Lear. No.
Foole. Why to keepe ones eyes of either side's nose, that what a man cannot smell out, he…
Lear. I did her wrong.
Foole. Can'st tell how an Oyster makes his shell?
Lear. No.
Foole. Nor I neither; but I can tell why a Snaile ha's a house.
Lear. Why?
Foole. Why to put's head in, not to giue it away to his daughters, and leaue his hornes…
Lear. I will forget my Nature, so kind a Father? Be my Horsses ready?
Foole. Thy Asses are gone about 'em; the reason why the seuen Starres are no mo then seuen,…
Lear. Because they are not eight.
Foole. Yes indeed, thou would'st make a good Foole.
Lear. To tak't againe perforce; Monster Ingratitude!
Foole. If thou wert my Foole Nunckle, Il'd haue thee beaten for being old before thy time.
Lear. How's that?
Foole. Thou shouldst not haue bin old, till thou hadst bin wise.
Lear. O let me not be mad, not mad sweet Heauen: keepe me in temper, I would not…
Gent. Ready my Lord.
Lear. Come Boy.
Fool. She that's a Maid now, & laughs at my departure, Shall not be a Maid long, vnlesse…
Exeunt.
Actus Secundus. Scena Prima.
Enter Bastard, and Curan, seuerally.
Bast. Saue thee Curan.
Cur. And you Sir, I haue bin With your Father, and giuen him notice That the Duke of…
Bast. How comes that?
Cur. Nay I know not, you haue heard of the newes abroad, I meane the whisper'd ones, for…
Bast. Not I: pray you what are they?
Cur. Haue you heard of no likely Warres toward, 'Twixt the Dukes of Cornwall, and Albany?
Bast. Not a word.
Cur. You may do then in time, Fare you well Sir.
Exit.
Bast. The Duke be here to night? The better best, This weaues it selfe perforce into my businesse,…
Edg. I am sure on't, not a word.
Bast. I heare my Father comming, pardon me: In cunning, I must draw my Sword vpon you: Draw,…
Enter Gloster, and Seruants with Torches.
Glo. Now Edmund, where's the villaine?
Bast. Here stood he in the dark, his sharpe Sword out, Mumbling of wicked charmes, coniuring the Moone…
Glo. But where is he?
Bast. Looke Sir, I bleed.
Glo. Where is the villaine, Edmund?
Bast. Fled this way Sir, when by no meanes he could.
Glo. Pursue him, ho: go after. By no meanes, what?
Bast. Perswade me to the murther of your Lordship, But that I told him the reuenging Gods, 'Gainst…
Glost. Let him fly farre: Not in this Land shall he remaine vncaught And found; dispatch, the Noble…
Bast. When I disswaded him from his intent, And found him pight to doe it, with curst speech…
Glo. O strange and fastned Villaine, Would he deny his Letter, said he? Harke, the Dukes Trumpets, I…
Enter Cornewall, Regan, and Attendants.
Corn. How now my Noble friend, since I came hither (Which I can call but now,) I haue…
Reg. If it be true, all vengeance comes too short Which can pursue th'offender; how dost my Lord[missing…
Glo. O Madam, my old heart is crack'd, it's crack'd.
Reg. What, did my Fathers Godsonne seeke your life? He whom my Father nam'd, your Edgar?
Glo. O Lady, Lady, shame would haue it hid.
Reg. Was he not companion with the riotous Knights That tended vpon my Father?
Glo. I know not Madam, 'tis too bad, too bad.
Bast. Yes Madam, he was of that consort.
Reg. No maruaile then, though he were ill affected, 'Tis they haue put him on the old mans…
Cor. Nor I, assure thee Regan; Edmund, I heare that you haue shewne your Father A Child‐like Office.
Bast. It was my duty Sir.
Glo. He did bewray his practise, and receiu'd This hurt you see, striuing to apprehend him.
Cor. Is he pursued?
Glo. I my good Lord.
Cor. If he be taken, he shall neuer more Be fear'd of doing harme, make your owne purpose,…
Bast. I shall serue you Sir truely, how euer else.
Glo. For him I thanke your Grace.
Cor. You know not why we came to visit you?
Reg. Thus out of season, thredding darke ey'd night, Occasions Noble Glost er of some prize, Wherein we…
Glo. I serue you Madam, Your Graces are right welcome.
Exeunt.
Flourish.
Scena Secunda.
Enter Kent, and Steward seuerally.
Stew. Good dawning to thee Friend, art of this house?
Kent. I.
Stew. Where may we set our horses?
Kent. I'th' myre.
Stew. Prythee, if thou lou'st me, tell me.
Kent. I loue thee not.
Ste. Why then I care not for thee.
Kent. If I had thee in Lipsbury Pinfold, I would make thee care for me.
Ste. Why do'st thou vse me thus? I know thee not.
Kent. Fellow I know thee.
Ste. Wha[missing 1 units] do'st thou know me for?
Kent. A Knaue, a Rascall, an eater of broken meates, a base, proud, shallow, beggerly, three‐suited‐hundred pound, filthy…
Stew. Why, what a monstrous Fellow art thou, thus to raile on one, that is neither knowne of…
Kent. What a brazen‐fac'd Varlet art thou, to deny thou knowest me? Is it two dayes since I…
Stew. Away, I haue nothing to do with thee.
Kent. Draw you Rascall, you come with Letters against the King, and take Vanitie the puppets part, against…
Ste. Helpe, ho, murther, helpe.
Kent. Strike you slaue: stand rogue, stand you neat slaue, strike.
Stew. Helpe hoa, murther, murther.
Enter Bastard, Cornewall, Regan, Gloster, Seruants.
Bast. How now, what's the matter? Part.
Kent. With you goodman Boy, if you please, come, Ile flesh ye, come on yong Master.
Glo. Weapons? Armes? What's the matter here?
Cor. Keepe peace vpon your liues, he dies that strikes againe, what is the matter?
Reg. The Messengers from our Sister, and the King?
Cor. What is your difference, speake?
Stew. I am scarce in breath my Lord.
Kent. No Maruell, you haue so bestir'd your valour, you cowardly Rascall, nature disclaimes in thee: a Taylor…
Cor. Thou art a strange fellow, a Taylor make a man?
Kent. A Taylor Sir, a Stone‐cutter, or a Painter, could not haue made him so ill, though they…
Cor. Speake yet, how grew your quarrell?
Ste. This ancient Ruffian Sir, whose life I haue spar'd at sute of his gray‐beard.
Kent. Thou whoreson Zed, thou vnnecessary letter: my Lord, if you will giue me leaue, I will tread…
Cor. Peace sirrah, You beastly knaue, know you no reuerence?
Kent. Yes Sir, but anger hath a priuiledge.
Cor. Why art thou angrie?
Kent. That such a slaue as this should weare a Sword, Who weares no honesty: such smiling rogues…
Corn. What art thou mad old Fellow?
Glost. How fell you out, say that?
Kent. No contraries hold more antipathy, Then I, and such a knaue.
Corn. Why do'st thou call him Knaue? What is his fault?
Kent. His countenance likes me not.
Cor. No more perchance do's mine, nor his, nor hers[missing 1 units]
Kent. Sir, 'tis my occupation to be plaine, I haue seene better faces in my Time, Then stands…
Corn. This is some Fellow, Who hauing beene prais'd for bluntnesse, doth affect A saucy roughnes, and constraines…
Kent. Sir, in good faith, in sincere verity, Vnder th'allowance of your great aspect, Whose influence like the…
Corn. What mean'st by this?
Kent. To go out of my dialect, which you discommend so much; I know Sir, I am no…
Corn. What was th'offence you gaue him?
Ste. I neuer gaue him any: It pleas'd the King his Master very late To strike at me…
Kent. None of these Rogues, and Cowards But Aiax is there Foole.
Corn. Fetch forth the Stocks? You stubborne ancient Knaue, you reuerent Bragart, Wee'l teach you.
Kent. Sir, I am too old to learne: Call not your Stocks for me, I serue the King.…
Corn. Fetch forth the Stocks; As I haue life and Honour, there shall he sit till Noone.
Reg. Till noone? till night my Lord, and all night too.
Kent. Why Madam, if I were your Fathers dog, You should not vse me so.
Reg. Sir, being his Knaue, I will. Stocks brought out.
Cor. This is a Fellow of the selfe same colour, Our Sister speakes of. Come, bring away the…
Glo. Let me beseech your Grace, not to do so, The King his Master, needs must take it…
Cor. Ile answere that.
Reg. My Sister may recieue it much more worsse, To haue her Gentleman abus'd, assaulted.
Corn. Come my Lord, away.
Exit.
Glo. I am sorry for thee friend, 'tis the Dukes pleasure, Whose disposition all the world well knows…
Kent. Pray do not Sir, I haue watch'd and trauail'd hard, Some time I shall sleepe out, the…
Glo. The Duke's too blame in this, 'Twill be ill taken.
Exit.
Kent. Good King, that must approue the common saw, Thou out of Heauens benediction com'st To the warme…
Enter Edgar.
Edg. I heard my selfe proclaim'd, And by the happy hollow of a Tree, Escap'd the hunt. No…
Exit.
Enter Lear, Foole, and Gentleman.
Lea. 'Tis strange that they should so depart from home, And not send backe my Messengers.
Gent. As I learn'd, The night before, there was no purpose in them Of this remoue.
Kent. Haile to thee Noble Master.
Lear. Ha? Mak'st thou this shame thy pastime?
Kent. No my Lord.
Foole. Hah, ha, he weares Cruell Garters Horses are tide by the heads, Dogges and Beares by'th' necke,…
Lear. What's he, That hath so much thy place mistooke To set thee heere?
Kent. It is both he and she, Your Son, and Daughter.
Lear. No.
Kent. Yes.
Lear. No I say
Kent. I say yea.
Lear. By Iupiter I sweare no.
Kent. By Iuno, I sweare I.
Lear. They durst not do't: They could not, would not do't: 'tis worse then murther, To do vpon…
Kent. My Lord, when at their home I did commend your Highnesse Letters to them, Ere I was…
Foole. Winters not gon yet, if the wil'd Geese fly that way, Fathers that weare rags, do make…
Lear. Oh how this Mother swels vp toward my heart! Historica passio, downe thou climing sorrow, Thy Elements…
Kent. With the Earle Sir, here within.
Lear. Follow me not, stay here.
Exit.
Gen. Made you no more offence, But what you speake of?
Kent. None: How chance the King comes with so small a number?
Foole. And thou ha[missing 1 units]st beene set i'th' Stockes for that question, thoud'st well deseru'd it.
Kent. Why Foole?
Foole. Wee'l set thee to schoole to an Ant, to teach thee ther's no labouring i'th' winter. All…
Enter Lear, and Gloster:
Kent. Where learn'd you this Foole?
Foole. Not i'th' Stocks Foole.
Lear. Deny to speake with me? They are sicke, they are weary, They haue trauail'd all the night?…
Glo. My deere Lord, You know the fiery quality of the Duke, How vnremoueable and fixt he is…
Lear. Vengeance, Plague, Death, Confusion: Fiery? What quality? Why Gloster, Gloster, I'ld speake with the Duke of Cornewall,…
Glo. Well my good Lord, I haue inform'd them so.
Lear. Inform'd them? Do'st thou vnderstand me man.
Glo. I my good Lord.
Lear. The King would speake with Cornwall, The deere Father Would with his Daughter speake, commands, tends, ser…
Glo. I would haue all well betwixt you.
Exit.
Lear. Oh me my heart! My rising heart! But downe.
Foole. Cry to it Nunckle, as the Cockney did to the Eeles, when she put 'em i'th' Paste…
Enter Cornewall, Regan, Gloster, Seruants.
Lear. Good morrow to you both.
Corn. Haile to your Grace. Kent here set at liberty.
Reg. I am glad to see your Highnesse.
Lear. Regan, I thinke you are. I know what reason I haue to thinke so, if thou should'st…
Reg. I pray you Sir, take patience, I haue hope You lesse know how to value her desert,…
Lear. Say? How is that?
Reg. I cannot thinke my Sister in the least Would faile her Obligation. If Sir perchance She haue…
Lear. My curses on her.
Reg. O Sir, you are old, Nature in you stands on the very Verge Of his confine: you…
Lear. Aske her forgiuenesse? Do you but marke how this becomes the house? Deere daughter, I confesse that…
Reg. Good Sir, no more: these are vnsightly trickes: Returne you to my Sister.
Lear. Neuer Regan: She hath abated me of halfe my Traine; Look'd blacke vpon me, strooke me with…
Corn. Fye sir, fie.
Le. You nimble Lightnings, dart your blinding flames Into her scornfull eyes: Infect her Beauty, You Fen‐suck'd Fogges,…
Reg. O the blest Gods! So will you wish on me, when the rash moode is on.
Lear. No Regan, thou shalt neuer haue my curse: Thy tender‐hefted Nature shall not giue Thee o're to…
Reg. Good Sir, to'th' purpose. Tucket within.
Lear. Who put my man i'th' Stockes?
Enter Steward.
Corn. What Trumpet's that?
Reg. I know't, my Sisters: this approues her Letter, That she would soone be heere. Is your Lady…
Lear. This is a Slaue, whose easie borrowed pride Dwels in the sickly grace of her he followes.…
Corn. What meanes your Grace?
Enter Gonerill.
Lear. Who stockt my Seruant? Regan, I haue good hope Thou did'st not know on't. Who comes here?…
Gon. Why not by'th' hand Sir? How haue I offended? All's not offence that indiscretion findes, And dotage…
Lear. O sides, you are too tough! Will you yet hold? How came my man i'th' Stockes?
Corn. I set him there, Sir: but his owne Disorders Deseru'd much lesse aduancement
Lear. You? Did you?
Reg. I pray you Father being weake, seeme so. If till the expiration of your Moneth You will…
Lear. Returne to her? and fifty men dismiss'd? No, rather I abiure all roofes, and chuse To wage…
Gon. At your choice Sir.
Lear. I prythee Daughter do not make me mad, I will not trouble thee my Child: farewell: Wee'l…
Reg. Not altogether so, I look'd not for you yet, nor am prouided For your fit welcome, giue…
Lear. Is this well spoken?
Reg. I dare auouch it Sir, what fifty Followers? Is it not well? What should you need of…
Gon. Why might not you my Lord, receiue attendance From those that she cals Seruants, or from mine?
Reg. Why not my Lord? If then they chanc'd to slacke ye, We could comptroll them; if you…
Lear. I gaue you all.
Reg. And in good time you gaue it.
Lear. Made you my Guardians, my Depositaries, But kept a reseruation to be followed With such a number?…
Reg. And speak't againe my Lord, no more with me.
Lea. Those wicked Creatures yet do look wel fauor'd When others are more wicked, not being the worst…
Gon. Heare me my Lord; What need you fiue and twenty? Ten? Or fiue? To follow in a…
Reg. What need one?
Lear. O reason not the need: our basest Beggers Are in the poorest thing superfluous. Allow not Nature,…
Corn. Let vs withdraw, 'twill be a Storme.
Reg. This house is little, the old man and's people, Cannot be well bestow'd.
Gon. 'Tis his owne blame hath put himselfe from rest, And must needs taste his folly.
Reg. For his particular, Ile receiue him gladly, But not one follower.
Gon. So am I purpose'd, Where is my Lord of Gloster?
Enter Gloster.
Corn. Followed the old man forth, he is return'd.
Glo. The King is in high rage.
Corn. Whether is he going?
Glo. He cals to Horse, but will I know not whether.
Corn. 'Tis best to giue him way, he leads himself.
Gon. My Lord, entreate him by no meanes to stay.
Glo. Alacke the night comes on, and the high windes Do sorely.ruffle, for many Miles about There's scarce…
Reg. O Sir, to wilfull men, The iniuries that they themselues procure, Must be their Schoole‐Masters: shut vp…
Cor. Shut vp your doores my Lord, 'tis a wil'd night, My Regan counsels well: come out oth'storme.
Exeunt.
Actus Tertius. Scena Prima.
Storme still.
Enter Kent, and a Gentleman, seuerally.
Kent. Who's there besides foule weather?
Gen. One minded like the weather, most vnquietly.
Kent. I know you: Where's the King?
Gent. Contending with the fretfull Elements; Bids the winde blow the Earth into the Sea, Or swell the…
Kent. But who is with him?
Gent. None but the Foole, who labours to out‐iest His heart‐strooke iniuries.
Kent. Sir, I do know you, And dare vpon the warrant of my note Commend a deere thing…
Gent. I will talke further with you.
Kent. No, do not: For confirmation that I am much more Then my out‐wall; open this Purse, and…
Gent. Giue me your hand, Haue you no more to say?
Kent. Few words, but to effect more then all yet; That when we haue found the King, in…
Exeunt.
Scena Secunda.
Storme still.
Enter Lear, and Foole.
Lear. Blow windes, & crack your cheeks; Rage, blow You Cataracts, and Hyrricano's spout, Till you haue drench'd…
Foole. O Nunkle, Court holy‐water in a dry house, is better then this Rain‐water out o'doore. Good Nunkle,…
Lear. Rumble thy belly full: spit Fire, spowt Raine: Nor Raine, Winde, Thunder, Fire are my Daughters; I…
Foole. He that has a house to put's head in, has a good Head‐peece: The Codpiece that will…
Enter Kent.
Lear. No, I will be the patterne of all patience, I will say nothing.
Kent. Who's there?
Foole. Marry here's Grace, and a Codpiece, that's a Wiseman, and a Foole.
Kent. Alas Sir are you here? Things that loue night, Loue not such nights as these: The wrathfull…
Lear. Let the great Goddes That keepe this dreadfull pudder o're our heads, Finde out their enemies now.…
Kent. Alacke, bare‐headed? Gracious my Lord, hard by heere is a Houell, Some friendship will it lend you…
Lear. My wits begin to turne. Come on my boy. How dost my boy? Art cold? I am…
Foole. He that has and a little‐tyne wit, With heigh‐ho, the Winde and the Raine, Must make content…
Le. True Boy: Come bring vs to this Houell.
Exit.
Foole. This is a braue night to coole a Curtizan: Ile speake a Prophesie ere I go: When…
Exit.
Scœna Tertia.
Enter Gloster, and Edmund.
Glo. Alacke, alacke Edmund, I like not this vnnaturall dealing; when I desired their leaue that I might…
Bast. Most sauage and vnnaturall.
Glo. Go too; say you nothing. There is diuision betweene the Dukes, and a worsse matter then that:…
Exit.
Bast. This Curtesie forbid thee, shall the Duke Instantly know, and of that Letter too; This seemes a…
Exit.
Scena Quarta.
Enter Lear, Kent, and Foole.
Kent. Here is the place my Lord, good my Lord enter, The tirrany of the open night's too…
Lear. Let me alone.
Kent. Good my Lord enter here.
Lear. Wilt breake my heart?
Kent. I had rather breake mine owne, Good my Lord enter.
Lear. Thou think'st 'tis much that this contentious storme Inuades vs to the skin so: 'tis to thee,…
Kent. Good my Lord enter here.
Lear. Prythee go in thy selfe, seeke thine owne ease, This tempest will not giue me leaue to…
Enter Edgar, and Foole.
Edg. Fathom, and halfe, Fathom and halfe; poore Tom.
Foole. Come not in heere Nuncle, here's a spirit, helpe me, helpe me.
Kent. Giue my thy hand, who's there?
Foole. A spirite, a spirite, he sayes his name's poore Tom.
Kent. What art thou that dost grumble there i'th' straw? Come forth.
Edg. Away, the foule Fiend followes me, through the sharpe Hauthorne blow the windes. Humh, goe to thy…
Lear. Did'st thou giue all to thy Daughters? And art thou come to this?
Edgar. Who giues any thing to poore Tom? Whom the foule fiend hath led through Fire, and through…
Lear. Ha's his Daughters brought him to this passe? Could'st thou saue nothing? Would'st thou giue 'em all?
Foole. Nay, he reseru'd a Blanket, else we had bin all sham'd.
Lea. Now all the plagues that in the pendulous ayre Hang fated o're mens faults, light on thy…
Kent. He hath no Daughters Sir.
Lear. Death Traitor, nothing could haue subdue'd Nature To such a lownesse, but his vnkind Daughters. Is it…
Edg. Pillicock sat on Pillicock hill, alow: alow, loo, loo.
Foole. This cold night will turne vs all to Fooles, and Madmen.
Edgar. Take heed o'th' foule Fiend, obey thy Parents, keepe thy words Iustice, sweare not, commit not, with…
Lear. What hast thou bin?
Edg. A Seruingman? Proud in heart, and minde; that curl'd my haire, wore Gloues in my cap; seru'd…
Storme still.
Lear. Thou wert better in a Graue, then to answere with thy vncouer'd body, this extremitie of the…
Enter Gloucester, with a Torch.
Foole. Prythee Nunckle be contented, 'tis a naughtie night to swimme in. Now a little fire in a…
Edg. This is the foule Flibbertigibbet; hee begins at Curfew, and walkes at first Cocke: Hee giues the…
Kent. How fares your Grace?
Lear. What's he?
Kent. Who's there? What is't you seeke?
Glou. What are you there? Your Names?
Edg. Poore Tom, that eates the swimming Frog, the Toad, the Tod‐pole, the wall‐Neut, and the water: that…
Glou. What, hath your Grace no better company?
Edg. The Prince of Darkenesse is a Gentleman. Modo he's call'd, and Mahu.
Glou. Our flesh and blood, my Lord, is growne so vilde, that it doth hate what gets it.
Edg. Poore Tom's a cold.
Glou. Go in with me; my duty cannot suffer T'obey in all your daughters hard commands: Though their…
Lear. First let me talke with this Philosopher, What is the cause of Thunder?
Kent. Good my Lord take his offer, Go into th'house.
Lear. Ile talke a word with this same lerned Theban: What is your study?
Edg. How to preuent the Fiend, and to kill Vermine.
Lear. Let me aske you one word in priuate.
Kent. Importune him once more to go my Lord, His wits begin t'vnsettle.
Glou. Canst thou blame him? Storm still His Daughters seeke his death: Ah, that good Kent, He said…
Lear. O cry you mercy, Sir: Noble Philosopher, your company.
Edg. Tom's a cold.
Glou. In fellow there, into th'Houel; keep thee warm.
Lear. Come, let's in all.
Kent. This way, my Lord.
Lear. With him; I will keepe still with my Philosopher.
Kent. Good my Lord, sooth him: Let him take the Fellow.
Glou. Take him you on.
Kent. Sirra, come on: go along with vs.
Lear. Come, good Athenian.
Glou. No words, no words, hush.
Edg. Childe Rowland to the darke Tower came, His word was still, fie, foh, and fumme, I smell…
Exeunt.
Scena Quinta.
Enter Cornwall, and Edmund.
Corn. I will haue my reuenge, ere I depart his house.
Bast. How my Lord, I may be censured, that Nature thus giues way to Loyaltie, something feares mee…
Cornw. I now perceiue, it was not altogether your Brothers euill disposition made him seeke his death: but…
Bast. How malicious is my fortune, that I must repent to be iust? This is the Letter which…
Corn. Go with me to the Dutchesse.
Bast. If the matter of this Paper be certain, you haue mighty businesse in hand.
Corn. True or false, it hath made thee Earle of Gloucester: seeke out where thy Father is, that…
Bast. If I finde him comforting the King, it will stuffe his suspition more fully. I will perseuer…
Corn. I will lay trust vpon thee: and thou shalt finde a deere Father in my loue.
Exeunt.
Scena Sexta.
Enter Kent, and Gloucester.
Glou. Heere is better then the open ayre, take it thankfully: I will peece out the comfort with…
Exit
Kent. All the powre of his wits, haue giuen way to his impatience: the Gods reward your kindnesse.
Enter Lear, Edgar, and Foole.
Edg. Fraterretto cals me, and tells me Nero is an Angler in the Lake of Darknesse: pray Innocent,…
Foole. Prythee Nunkle tell me, whether a madman be a Gentleman, or a Yeoman.
Lear. A King, a King.
Foole. No, he's a Yeoman, that ha's a Gentleman to his Sonne: for hee's a mad Yeoman that…
Lear. To haue a thousand with red burning spits Come hizzing in vpon 'em.
Edg. Blesse thy fiue wits.
Kent. O pitty: Sir, where is the patience now That you so oft haue boasted to retaine?
Edg. My teares begin to take his part so much, They marre my counterfetting.
Lear. The little dogges, and all; Trey, Blanch, and Sweet‐heart: see, they barke at me.
Edg. Tom, will throw his head at them: Auaunt you Curres, be thy mouth or blacke or white:…
Lear. Then let them Anatomize Regan: See what breeds about her heart. Is there any cause in Nature…
Enter Gloster.
Kent. Now good my Lord, lye heere, and rest awhile.
Lear. Make no noise, make no noise, draw the Curtaines: so, so, wee'l go to Supper i'th' morning.
Foole. And Ile go to bed at noone.
Glou. Come hither Friend: Where is the King my Master?
Kent. Here Sir, but trouble him not, his wits are gon.
Glou. Good friend, I prythee take him in thy armes; I haue ore‐heard a plot of death vpon…
Exeunt.
Scena Septima.
Enter Cornwall, Regan, Gonerill, Bastard, and Seruants.
Corn. Poste speedily to my Lord your husband, shew him this Letter, the Army of France is landed:…
Reg. Hang him instantly.
Gon. Plucke out his eyes.
Corn. Leaue him to my displeasure. Edmond, keepe you our Sister company: the reuenges wee are bound to…
Enter Steward.
How now? Where's the King?
Stew. My Lord of Glouster hath conuey'd him hence Some fiue or six and thirty of his Knights…
Corn. Get horses for your Mistris.
Gon. Farewell sweet Lord, and Sister.
Exit
Corn. Edmund farewell: go seek the Traitor Gloster, Pinnion him like a Theefe, bring him before vs: Though…
Enter Gloucester, and Seruants.
Who's there? the Traitor?
Reg. Ingratefull Fox, 'tis he.
Corn. Binde fast his corky armes.
Glou. What meanes your Graces? Good my Friends consider you are my Ghests: Do me no foule play,…
Corn. Binde him I say.
Reg. Hard, hard: O filthy Traitor.
Glou. Vnmercifull Lady, as you are, I'me none.
Corn. To this Chaire binde him, Villaine, thou shalt finde.
Glou. By the kinde Gods, 'tis most ignobly done To plucke me by the Beard.
Reg. So white, and such a Traitor?
Glou. Naughty Ladie, These haires which thou dost rauish from my chin Will quicken and accuse thee. I…
Corn. Come Sir. What Letters had you late from France?
Reg. Be simple answer'd, for we know the truth.
Corn. And what confederacie haue you with the Traitors, late footed in the Kingdome?
Reg. To whose hands You haue sent the Lunaticke King: Speake.
Glou. I haue a Letter guessingly set downe Which came from one that's of a newtrall heart, And…
Corn. Cunning.
Reg. And false.
Corn. Where hast thou sent the King?
Glou. To Douer.
Reg. Wherefore to Douer? Was't thou not charg'd at perill.
Corn. Wherefore to Douer? Let him answer that.
Glou. I am tyed to'th' Stake, And I must stand the Course.
Reg. Wherefore to Douer?
Glou. Because I would not see thy cruell Nailes Plucke out his poore old eyes: nor thy fierce…
Corn. See't shalt thou neuer. Fellowes hold y Chaire, Vpon these eyes of thine, Ile set my foote.
Glou. He that will thinke to liue, till he be old, Giue me some helpe. ——— O cruell!…
Reg. One side will mocke another: Th' other too.
Corn. If you see vengeance.
Seru. Hold your hand, my Lord: I haue seru'd you euer since I was a Childe: But better…
Reg. How now, you dogge?
Ser. If you did weare a beard vpon your chin, I'ld shake it on this quarrell. What do…
Corn. My Villaine?
Seru. Nay then come on, and take the chance of anger.
Reg. Giue me thy Sword. A pezant stand vp thus?
Killes him.
Ser. Oh I am slaine: my Lord, you haue one eye left To see some mischefe on him.…
Corn. Lest it see more, preuent it; Out vilde gelly: Where is thy luster now?
Glou. All darke and comfortlesse? Where's my Sonne Edmund? Edmund, enkindle all the sparkes of Nature To quit…
Reg. Out treacherous Villaine, Thou call'st on him, that hates thee. It was he That made the ouerture…
Glou. O my Follies! then Edgar was abus'd, Kinde Gods, forgiue me that, and prosper him.
Reg. Go thrust him out at gates, and let him smell His way to Douer.
Exit with Glouster.
How is't my Lord? How looke you?
Corn. I haue receiu'd a hurt: Follow me Lady; Turne out that eyelesse Villaine: throw this Slaue Vpon…
Exeunt.
Actus Quartus. Scena Prima.
Enter Edgar.
Edg. Yet better thus, and knowne to be contemn'd, Then still contemn'd and flatter'd, to be worst: The…
Oldm. O my good Lord, I haue bene your Tenant, And your Fathers Tenant, these fourescore yeares.
Glou. Away, get thee away: good Friend be gone, Thy comforts can do me no good at all,…
Oldm. You cannot see your way.
Glou. I haue no way, and therefore want no eyes: I stumbled when I saw. Full oft 'tis…
Oldm. How now? who's there?
Edg. O Gods! Who is't can say I am at the worst? I am worse then ere I…
Old. 'Tis poore mad Tom.
Edg. And worse I may be yet: the worst is not, So long as we can say this…
Oldm. Fellow, where goest?
Glou. Is it a Beggar‐man?
Oldm. Madman, and beggar too.
Glou. He has some reason, else he could not beg. I'th' last nights storme, I such a fellow…
Edg. How should this be? Bad is the Trade that must play Foole to sorrow, Ang'ring it selfe,…
Glou. Is that the naked Fellow?
Oldm. I, my Lord.
Glou. Get thee away: If for my sake Thou wilt ore‐take vs hence a mile or twaine I'th'…
Old. Alacke sir, he is mad.
Glou. 'Tis the times plague, When Madmen leade the blinde: Do as I bid thee, or rather do…
Oldm. Ile bring him the best Parrell that I haue Come on't what will.
Exit
Glou. Sirrah, naked fellow.
Edg. Poore Tom's a cold. I cannot daub it further.
Glou. Come hither fellow.
Edg. And yet I must: Blesse thy sweete eyes, they bleede.
Glou. Know'st thou the way to Douer?
Edg. Both style, and gate; Horseway, and foot‐path: poore Tom hath bin scar'd out of his good wits.…
Glou. Here take this purse, y whom the heau'ns plagues Haue humbled to all strokes: that I am…
Edg. I Master.
Glou. There is a Cliffe, whose high and bending head Lookes fearfully in the confined Deepe: Bring me…
Edg. Giue me thy arme; Poore Tom shall leade thee.
Exeunt.
Scena Secunda.
Enter Gonerill, Bastard, and Steward.
Gon. Welcome my Lord. I meruell our mild husband Not met vs on the way. Now, where's your…
Stew. Madam within, but neuer man so chang'd: I told him of the Army that was Landed: He…
Gon. Then shall you go no further. It is the Cowish terror of his spirit That dares not…
Bast. Yours in the rankes of death.
Exit.
Gon. My most deere Gloster. Oh, the difference of man, and man, To thee a Womans seruices are…
Stew. Madam, here come's my Lord.
Enter Albany.
Gon. I haue beene worth the whistle.
Alb. Oh Gonerill, You are not worth the dust which the rude winde Blowes in your face.
Gon. Milke‐Liuer'd man, That bear'st a cheeke for blowes, a head for wrongs, Who hast not in thy…
Alb. See thy selfe diuell: Proper deformitie seemes not in the Fiend So horrid as in woman.
Gon. Oh vaine Foole.
Enter a Messenger.
Mes. Oh my good Lord, the Duke of Cornwals dead, Slaine by his Seruant, going to put out…
Alb. Glousters eyes.
Mes. A Seruant that he bred, thrill'd with remorse, Oppos'd against the act: bending his Sword To his…
Alb. This shewes you are aboue You Iustices, that these our neather crimes So speedily can venge. But…
Mes. Both, both, my Lord. This Leter Madam, craues a speedy answer: 'Tis from your Sister.
Gon. One way I like this well. But being widdow, and my Glouster with her, May all the…
Alb. Where was his Sonne, When they did take his eyes?
Mes. Come with my Lady hither.
Alb. He is not heere.
Mes. No my good Lord, I met him backe againe.
Alb. Knowes he the wickednesse?
Mes. I my good Lord: 'twas he inform'd against him And quit the house on purpose, that their…
Alb. Glouster, I liue To thanke thee for the loue thou shew'dst the King, And to reuenge thine…
Exeunt.
Scena Tertia.
Enter with Drum and Colours, Cordelia, Gentlemen, and Souldiours.
Cor. Alacke, 'tis he: why he was met euen now As mad as the vext Sea, singing alowd.…
Gent. There is meanes Madam: Our foster Nurse of Nature, is repose, The which he lackes: that to…
Cord. All blest Secrets, All you vnpublish'd Vertues of the earth Spring with my teares; be aydant, and…
Enter Messenger.
Mes. Newes Madam, The Brittish Powres are marching hitherward.
Cor. 'Tis knowne before. Our preparation stands In expectation of them. O deere Father, It is thy businesse…
Exeunt.
Scena Quarta.
Enter Regan, and Steward.
Reg. But are my Brothers Powres set forth?
Stew. I Madam.
Reg. Himselfe in person there?
Stew. Madam with much ado: Your Sister is the better Souldier.
Reg. Lord Edmund spake not with your Lord at home?
Stew. No Madam.
Reg. What might import my Sisters Letter to him?
Stew. I know not, Lady.
Reg. Faith he is poasted hence on serious matter: It was great ignorance, Glousters eyes being out To…
Stew. I must needs after him, Madam, with my Letter.
Reg. Our troopes set forth to morrow, stay with vs: The wayes are dangerous.
Stew. I may not Madam: My Lady charg'd my dutie in this busines.
Reg. Why should she write to Edmund? Might not you transport her purposes by word? Belike, Some things,…
Stew. Madam, I had rather ———
Reg. I know your Lady do's not loue her Husband, I am sure of that: and at her…
Stew. I, Madam?
Reg. I speake in vnderstanding: Y'are: I know't, Therefore I do aduise you take this note: My Lord…
Stew. Would I could meet Madam, I should shew What party I do follow.
Reg. Fare thee well.
Exeunt.
Scena Quinta.
Enter Gloucester, and Edgar.
Glou. When shall I come to th'top of that same hill?
Edg. You do climbe vp it now. Look how we labor.
Glou. Me thinkes the ground is eeuen.
Edg. Horrible steepe. Hearke, do you heare the Sea?
Glou. No truly.
Edg. Why then your other Senses grow imperfect By your eyes anguish.
Glou. So may it be indeed. Me thinkes thy voyce is alter'd, and thou speak'st In better phrase,…
Edg. Y'are much deceiu'd: In nothing am I chang'd But in my Garments.
Glou. Me thinkes y'are better spoken.
Edg. Come on Sir, Heere's the place: stand still: how fearefull And dizie 'tis, to cast ones eyes…
Glou. Set me where you stand.
Edg. Giue me your hand: You are now within a foote of th'extreme Verge: For all beneath the…
Glou. Let go my hand: Heere Friend's another purse: in it, a Iewell Well worth a poore mans…
Edg. Now fare ye well, good Sir.
Glou. With all my heart.
Edg. Why I do trifle thus with his dispaire, Is done to cure it.
Glou. O you mighty Gods! This world I do renounce, and in your sights Shake patiently my great…
Edg. Gone Sir, farewell: And yet I know not how conceit may rob The Treasury of life, when…
Glou. Away, and let me dye.
Edg. Had'st thou beene ought But Gozemore, Feathers, Ayre, (So many fathome downe precipitating) Thou'dst shiuer'd like an…
Glou. But haue I falne, or no?
Edg. From the dread Somnet of this Chalkie Bourne Looke vp a height, the shrill‐gorg'd Larke so farre…
Glou. Alacke, I haue no eyes: Is wretchednesse depriu'd that benefit To end it selfe by death? 'Twas…
Edg. Giue me your arme. Vp, so: How is't? Feele you your Legges? You stand.
Glou. Too well, too well.
Edg. This is aboue all strangenesse, Vpon the crowne o'th' Cliffe. What thing was that Which parted from…
Glou. A poore vnfortunate Beggar.
Edg. As I stood heere below, me thought his eyes Were two full Moones: he had a thousand…
Glou. I do remember now: henceforth Ile beare Affliction, till it do cry out it selfe Enough, enough,…
Edgar. Beare free and patient thoughts. Enter Lear. But who comes heere? The safer sense will ne're accommodate…
Lear. No, they cannot touch me for crying. I am the King himselfe.
Edg. O thou side‐piercing sight!
Lear. Nature's aboue Art, in that respect. Ther's your Presse‐money. That fellow handles his bow, like a Crowkeeper:…
Edg. Sweet Mariorum.
Lear. Passe.
Glou. I know that voice.
Lear. Ha! Gonerill with a white beard? They flatter'd me like a Dogge, and told mee I had…
Glou. The tricke of that voyce, I do well remember: Is't not the King?
Lear. I, euery inch a King. When I do stare, see how the Subiect quakes. I pardon that…
Glou. O let me kisse that hand.
Lear. Let me wipe it first, It smelles of Mortality.
Glou. O ruin'd peece of Nature, this great world Shall so weare out to naught. Do'st thou know…
Lear. I remember thine eyes well enough: dost thou squiny at me? No, doe thy worst blinde Cupid,…
Glou. Were all thy Letters Sunnes, I could not see.
Edg. I would not take this from report, It is, and my heart breakes at it.
Lear. Read.
Glou. What with the Case of eyes?
Lear. Oh ho, are you there with me? No eies in your head, nor no mony in your…
Glou. I see it feelingly.
Lear. What, art mad? A man may see how this world goes, with no eyes. Looke with thine…
Glou. I Sir.
Lear. And the Creature run from the Cur: there thou mightֺst behold the great image of Authoritie, a…
Edg. O matter, and impertinency mixt, Reason in Madnesse.
Lear. If thou wilt weepe my Fortunes, take my eyes. I know thee well enough, thy name is…
Glou. Alacke, alacke the day.
Lear. When we are borne, we cry that we are come To this great stage of Fooles. This…
Enter a Gentleman.
Gent. Oh heere he is: lay hand vpon him, Sir. Your most deere Daughter ———
Lear. No rescue? What, a Prisoner? I am euen The Naturall Foole of Fortune. Vse me well, You…
Gent. You shall haue any thing.
Lear. No Seconds? All my selfe? Why, this would make a man, a man of Salt To vse…
Gent. You are a Royall one, and we obey you.
Lear. Then there's life in't. Come, and you get it, You shall get it by running: Sa, sa,…
Exit.
Gent. A sight most pittifull in the meanest wretch, Past speaking of in a King. Thou hast a…
Edg. Haile gentle Sir.
Gent. Sir, speed you: what's your will?
Edg. Do you heare ought (Sir) of a Battell toward.
Gent. Most sure, and vulgar: Euery one heares that, which can distinguish sound.
Edg. But by your fauour: How neere's the other Army?
Gent. Neere, and on speedy foot: the maine descry Stands on the hourely thought.
Edg. I thanke you Sir, that's all.
Gent. Though that the Queen on special cause is here Her Army is mou'd on.
Exit.
Edg. I thanke you Sir.
Glou. You euer gentle Gods, take my breath from me, Let not my worser Spirit tempt me againe…
Edg. Well pray you Father.
Glou. Now good sir, what are you?
Edg. A most poore man, made tame to Fortunes blows Who, by the Art of knowne, and feeling…
Glou. Heartie thankes: The bountie, and the benizon of Heauen To boot, and boot.
Enter Steward.
Stew. A proclaim'd prize: most happie That eyelesse head of thine, was first fram'd flesh To raise my…
Glou. Now let thy friendly hand Put strength enough too't.
Stew. Wherefore, bold Pezant, Dar'st thou support a publish'd Traitor? Hence, Least that th'infection of his fortune take…
Edg. Chill not let go Zir, Without vurther 'casion.
Stew. Let go Slaue, or thou dy'st.
Edg. Good Gentleman goe your gate, and let poore volke passe: and 'chud ha'bin zwaggerd out of my…
Stew. Out Dunghill.
Edg. Chill picke your teeth Zir: come, no matter vor your foynes.
Stew. Slaue thou hast slaine me: Villain, take my purse; If euer thou wilt thriue, bury my bodie,…
Edg. I know thee well. A seruiceable Villaine, As duteous to the vices of thy Mistris, As badnesse…
Glou. What, is he dead?
Edg. Sit you downe Father: rest you. Let's see these Pockets; the Letters that he speakes of May…
Glou. The King is mad: How stiffe is my vilde sense That I stand vp, and haue ingenious…
Edg. Giue me your hand: Farre off methinkes I heare the beaten Drumme. Come Father, Ile bestow you…
Exeunt.
Scoena Septima.
Enter Cordelia, Kent, and Gentleman.
Cor. O thou good Kent, How shall I liue and worke To match thy goodnesse? My life will…
Kent. To be acknowledge'd Madam is orepai'd, All my reports go with the modest truth, Nor more, nor…
Cor. Be better suited, These weedes are memories of those worser houres: I prythee put them off.
Kent. Pardon deere Madam, Yet to be knowne shortens my made intent, My boone I make it, that…
Cor. Then be't so my good Lord: How do's the King?
Gent. Madam sleepes still.
Cor. O you kind Gods! Cure this great breach in his abused Nature, Th'vntun'd and iarring senses, O…
Gent. So please your Maiesty, That we may wake the King, he hath slept long?
Cor. Be gouern'd by your knowledge, and proceede I'th' sway of your owne will: is he array'd?
Enter Lear in a chaire carried by Seruants
Gent. I Madam: in the heauinesse of sleepe, We put fresh garments on him. Be by good Madam…
Cor. O my deere Father, restauratian hang Thy medicine on my lippes, and let this kisse Repaire those…
Kent. Kind and deere Princesse.
Cor. Had you not bin their Father, these white flakes Did challenge pitty of them. Was this a…
Gen. Madam do you, 'tis fittest.
Cor. How does my Royall Lord? How fares your Maiesty?
Lear. You do me wrong to take me out o'th' graue, Thou art a Soule in blisse, but…
Cor. Sir, do you know me?
Lear. You are a spirit I know, where did you dye?
Cor. Still, still, farre wide.
Gen. He's scarse awake, Let him alone a while.
Lear. Where haue I bin? Where am I? Faire day light? I am mightily abus'd; I should eu'n…
Cor. O looke vpon me Sir, And hold your hand in benediction o're me, You must not kneele.
Lear. Pray do not mocke me: I am a very foolish fond old man, Fourescore and vpward, Not…
Cor. And so I am: I am.
Lear. Be your teares wet? Yes faith: I pray weepe not, If you haue poyson for me, I…
Cor. No cause, no cause.
Lear. Am I in France?
Kent. In your owne kingdome Sir.
Lear. Do not abuse me.
Gent. Be comforted good Madam, the great rage You see is kill'd in him: desire him to go…
Cor. Wilt please your Highnesse walke?
Lear. You must beare with me: Pray you now forget, and forgiue, I am old and foolish.
Exeunt.
Actus Quintus. Scena Prima.
Enter with Drumme and Colours, Edmund, Regan. Gentlemen, and Souldiers.
Bast. Know of the Duke if his last purpose hold, Or whether since he is aduis'd by ought…
Reg. Our Sisters man is certainely miscarried.
Bast. 'Tis to be doubted Madam.
Reg. Now sweet Lord, You know the goodnesse I intend vpon you: Tell me but truly, but then…
Bast. In honour'd Loue.
Reg. But haue you neuer found my Brothers way, To the fore‐fended place?
Bast. No by mine honour, Madam.
Reg. I neuer shall endure her, deere my Lord Be not familiar with her.
Bast. Feare not, she and the Duke her husband.
Enter with Drum and Colours, Albany, Gonerill, Soldiers.
Alb. Our very louing Sister, well be‐met: Sir, this I heard, the King is come to his Daughter…
Regan. Why is this reasond?
Gone. Combine together 'gainst the Enemie: For these domesticke and particular broiles, Are not the question here.
Alb. Let's then determine with th'ancient of warre On our proceeding.
Reg. Sister you'le go with vs?
Gon. No.
Reg. 'Tis most conuenient, pray go with vs.
Gon. Oh ho, I know the Riddle, I will goe.
Exeunt both the Armies.
Enter Edgar.
Edg. If ere your Grace had speech with man so poore, Heare me one word.
Alb. Ile ouertake you, speake.
Edg. Before you fight the Battaile, ope this Letter: If you haue victory, [missing 1 units]et the Trumpet…
Alb. Stay till I haue read the Letter.
Edg. I was forbid it: When time shall serue, let but the Herald cry, And Ile appeare againe.
Exit.
Alb. Why farethee well, I will o're‐looke thy paper.
Enter Edmund.
Bast. The Enemy's in view, draw vp your powers, Heere is the guesse of their true strength and…
Alb. We will greet the time.
Exit.
Bast. To both these Sisters haue I sworne my loue: Each iealous of the other, as the stung…
Exit.
Scena Secunda.
Alarum within. Enter with Drumme and Colours, Lear, Cordelia, and Souldiers, ouer the Stage, and Exeunt.
Enter Edgar, and Gloster.
Edg. Heere Father, take the shadow of this Tree For your good hoast: pray that the right may…
Glo. Grace go with you Sir.
Exit.
Alarum and Retreat within.
Enter Edgar.
Edgar. Away old man, giue me thy hand, away: King Lear hath lost, he and his Daughter tane,…
Glo. No further Sir, a man may rot euen heere.
Edg. What in ill thoughts againe? Men must endure Their going hence, euen as their comming hither, Ripenesse…
Glo. And that's true too.
Exeunt.
Scena Tertia.
Enter in conquest with Drum and Colours, Edmund, Lear, and Cordelia, as prisoners, Souldiers, Captaine.
Bast. Some Officers take them away: good guard, Vntill their greater pleasures first be knowne That are to…
Cor. We are not the first, Who with best meaning haue incur'd the worst: For thee oppressed King…
Lear. No, no, no, no: come let's away to prison, We two alone will sing like Birds i'th'…
Bast. Take them away.
Lear. Vpon such sacrifices my Cordelia, The Gods themselues throw Incense. Haue I caught thee? He that parts…
Exit.
Bast. Come hither Captaine, hearke. Take thou this note, go follow them to prison, One step I haue…
Capt. Ile do't my Lord.
Bast. About it, and write happy, when th'hast done, Marke I say instantly, and carry it so As…
Exit Captaine.
Flourish.
Enter Albany, Gonerill, Regan, Soldiers.
Alb. Sir, you haue shew'd to day your valiant straine And Fortune led you well: you haue the…
Bast. Sir, I thought it fit, To send the old and miserable King to some retention, Whose age…
Alb. Sir, by your patience, I hold you but a subiect of this Warre, Not as a Brother.
Reg. That's as we list to grace him. Methinkes our pleasure might haue bin demanded Ere you had…
Gon. Not so hot: In his owne grace he doth exalt himselfe, More then in your addition.
Reg. In my rights, By me inuested, he compeeres the best.
Alb. That were the most, if he should husband you.
Reg. Iesters do oft proue Prophets.
Gon. Hola, hola, That eye that told you so, look'd but a squint.
Rega. Lady I am not well, else I should answere From a full flowing stomack. Generall, Take thou…
Gon. Meane you to enioy him?
Alb. The let alone lies not in your good will.
Bast. Nor in thine Lord.
Alb. Halfe‐blooded fellow, yes.
Reg. Let the Drum strike, and proue my title thine.
Alb. Stay yet, heare reason: Edmund, I arrest thee On capitall Treason; and in thy arrest, This guilded…
Gon. An enterlude.
Alb. Thou art armed Gloster, Let the Trumpet sound: If none appeare to proue vpon thy person, Thy…
Reg. Sicke, O sicke.
Gon. If not, Ile nere trust medicine.
Bast. There's my exchange, what in the world hes That names me Traitor, villain‐like he lies, Call by…
Enter a Herald.
Alb. A Herald, ho. Trust to thy single vertue, for thy Souldiers All leuied in my name, haue…
Regan. My sicknesse growes vpon me.
Alb. She is not well, conuey her to my Tent. Come hither Herald, let the Trumpet sound, And…
A Trumpet sounds.
Herald reads. I f any man of qualitie or degree, within the lists of the Army, will maintaine…
Her. Againe. 2 Trumpet.
Her. Againe. 3 Trumpet.
Trumpet answers within.
Enter Edgar armed.
Alb. Aske him his purposes, why he appears Vpon this Call o'th' Trumpet.
Her. What are you? Your name, your quality, and why you answer This present Summons?
Edg. Know my name is lost By Treasons tooth: bare‐gnawne, and Canker‐bit, Yet am I Noble as the…
Alb. Which is that Aduersary?
Edg. What's he that speakes for Edmund Earle of Glo (ster?
Bast. Himselfe, what saist thou to him?
Edg. Draw thy Sword, That if my speech offend a Noble heart, Thy arme may do thee Iustice,…
Bast. In wisedome I should aske thy name, But since thy out‐side lookes so faire and Warlike, And…
Alb. Saue him, saue him.
Alarums. Fights.
Gon. This is practise Gloster, By th'law of Warre, thou wast not bound to answer An vnknowne opposite:…
Alb. Shut your mouth Dame, Or with this paper shall I stop it: hold Sir, Thou worse then…
Gon. Say if I do, the Lawes are mine not thine, Who can araigne me for't?
Exit.
Alb. Most monstrous! O, know'st thou this paper?
Bast. Aske me not what I know.
Alb. Go after her, she's desperate, gouerne her.
Bast. What you haue charg'd me with, That haue I done, And more, much more, the time will…
Edg. Let's exchange charity: I am no lesse in blood then thou art Edmond, If more, the more…
Bast. Th'hast spoken right, 'tis true, The Wheele is come full circle, I am heere.
Alb. Me thought thy very gate did prophesie A Royall Noblenesse: I must embrace thee, Let sorrow split…
Edg. Worthy Prince I know't.
Alb. Where haue you hid your selfe? How haue you knowne the miseries of your Father?
Edg. By nursing them my Lord. List a breefe tale, And when 'tis told, O that my heart…
Bast. This speech of yours hath mou'd me, And shall perchance do good, but speake you on, You…
Alb. If there be more, more wofull, hold it in, For I am almost ready to dissolue, Hearing…
Enter a Gentleman.
Gen. Helpe, helpe: O helpe.
Edg. What kinde of helpe?
Alb. Speake man.
Edg. What meanes this bloody Knife?
Gen. 'Tis hot, it smoakes, it came euen from the heart of ——— O she's dead.
Alb. Who dead? Speake man.
Gen. Your Lady Sir, your Lady; and her Sister By her is poyson'd: she confesses it.
Bast. I was contracted to them both, all three Now marry in an instant.
Edg. Here comes Kent.
Enter Kent.
Alb. Produce the bodies, be they aliue or dead; Gonerill and Regans bodies brought out. This iudgement of…
Kent. I am come To bid my King and Master aye good night. Is he not here?
Alb. Great thing of vs forgot, Speake Edmund, where's the King? and where's Cordelia? Seest thou this obiect…
Kent. Alacke, why thus?
Bast. Yet Edmund was belou'd: The one the other poison'd for my sake, And after slew herself.
Alb. Euen so: couer their faces.
Bast. I pant for life: some good I meane to do Despight of mine owne Nature. Quickly send,…
Alb. Run, run, O run.
Edg. To who my Lord? Who ha's the Office? Send thy token of repreeue.
Bast. Well thought on, take my Sword, Giue it the Captaine.
Edg. Hast thee for thy life.
Bast. He hath Commission from thy Wife and me, To hang Cordelia in the prison, and To lay…
Alb. The Gods defend her, beare him hence awhile.
Enter Lear with Cordelia in his armes.
Lear. Howle, howle, howle: O you are men of stones, Had I your tongues and eyes, Il'd vse…
Kent. Is this the promis'd end?
Edg. Or image of that horror.
Alb. Fall and cease.
Lear. This feather stirs, she liues: if it be so, It is a chance which do's redeeme all…
Kent. O my good Master.
Lear. Prythee away.
Edg. 'Tis Noble Kent your Friend.
Lear. A plague vpon you Murderors, Traitors all, I might haue sau'd her, now she's gone for euer:…
Gent. 'Tis true (my Lords) he did.
Lear. Did I not fellow? I haue seene the day, with my good biting Faulchion I would haue…
Kent. If Fortune brag of two, she lou'd and hated, One of them we behold.
Lear. This is a dull sight, are you not Kent?
Kent. The same: your Seruant Kent, Where is your Seruant Caius?
Lear. He's a good fellow, I can tell you that, He'le strike and quickly too, he's dead and…
Kent. No my good Lord, I am the very man.
Lear. Ile see that straight.
Kent. That from your first of difference and decay, Haue follow'd your sad steps.
Lear. You are welcome hither.
Kent. Nor no man else: All's cheerlesse, darke, and deadly, Your eldest Daughters haue fore‐done themselues, And desperately…
Lear. I so I thinke.
Alb. He knowes not what he saies, and vaine is it That we present vs to him.
Enter a Messenger.
Edg. Very bootlesse.
Mess. Edmund is dead my Lord.
Alb. That's but a trifle heere: You Lords and Noble Friends, know our intent, What comfort to this…
Lear. And my poore Foole is hang'd: no, no, no life? Why should a Dog, a Horse, a…
Edg. He faints, my Lord, my Lord.
Kent. Breake heart, I prythee breake.
Edg. Looke vp my Lord.
Kent. Vex not his ghost, O let him passe, he hates him, That would vpon the wracke of…
Edg. He is gon indeed.
Kent. The wonder is, he hath endur'd so long, He but vsurpt his life.
Alb. Beare them from hence, our present businesse Is generall woe: Friends of my soule, you twaine, Rule…
Kent. I haue a iourney Sir, shortly to go, My Master calls me, I must not say no.
Edg. The waight of this sad time we must obey, Speake what we feele, not what we ought…
Exeunt with a dead March.