I come no more to make you laugh : things now ,
That bear a weighty and a serious brow ,
Sad , high , and working , full of state and woe ,
Such noble scenes as draw the eye to flow ,
We now present . Those that can pity , here 
May , if they think it well , let fall a tear ;
The subject will deserve it . Such as give 
Their money out of hope they may believe ,
May here find truth too . Those that come to see 
Only a show or two , and so agree 
The play may pass , if they be still and willing ,
I'll undertake may see away their shilling 
Richly in two short hours . Only they 
That come to hear a merry , bawdy play ,
A noise of targets , or to see a fellow 
In a long molley coat guarded with yellow ,
Will be deceiv'd ; for , gentle hearers , know ,
To rank our chosen truth with such a show 
As fool and fight is , besides forfeiting 
Our own brains , and the opinion that we bring ,
To make that only true we now intend ,
Will leave us never an understanding friend .
Therefore , for goodness' sake , and as you are known 
The first and happiest hearers of the town ,
Be sad , as we would make ye : think ye see 
The very persons of our noble story 
As they were living ; think you see them great ,
And follow'd with the general throng and sweat 
Of thousand friends ; then , in a moment see 
How soon this mightiness meets misery :
And if you can be merry then , I'll say 
A man may weep upon his wedding day .


Good morrow , and well met . How have you done ,
Since last we saw in France ?

I thank your Grace ,
Healthful ; and ever since a fresh admirer 
Of what I saw there .

An untimely ague 
Stay'd me a prisoner in my chamber , when 
Those suns of glory , those two lights of men ,
Met in the vale of Andren .

'Twixt Guynes and Arde :
I was then present , saw them salute on horseback ;
Beheld them , when they lighted , how they clung 
In their embracement , as they grew together ;
Which had they , what four thron'd ones could have weigh'd 
Such a compounded one ?

All the whole time 
I was my chamber's prisoner .

Then you lost 
The view of earthly glory : men might say ,
Till this time , pomp was single , but now married 
To one above itself . Each following day 
Became the next day's master , till the last 
Made former wonders its . To-day the French 
All clinquant , all in gold , like heathen gods ,
Shone down the English ; and to-morrow they 
Made Britain India : every man that stood 
Show'd like a mine . Their dwarfish pages were 
As cherubins , all gilt : the madams , too ,
Not us'd to toil , did almost sweat to bear 
The pride upon them , that their very labour 
Was to them as a painting . Now this masque 
Was cried incomparable ; and the ensuing night 
Made it a fool , and beggar . The two kings ,
Equal in lustre , were now best , now worst ,
As presence did present them ; him in eye ,
Still him in praise ; and , being present both ,
'Twas said they saw but one ; and no discerner 
Durst wag his tongue in censure . When these suns 
For so they phrase 'em by their heralds challeng'd 
The noble spirits to arms , they did perform 
Beyond thought's compass ; that former fabulous story ,
Being now seen possible enough , got credit ,
That Bevis was believ'd .

O ! you go far .

As I belong to worship , and affect 
In honour honesty , the tract of every thing 
Would by a good discourser lose some life ,
Which action's self was tongue to . All was royal ;
To the disposing of it nought rebell'd ,
Order gave each thing view ; the office did 
Distinctly his full function .

Who did guide ,
I mean , who set the body and the limbs 
Of this great sport together , as you guess ?

One certes , that promises no element 
In such a business .

I pray you , who , my lord ?

All this was order'd by the good discretion 
Of the right reverend Cardinal of York .

The devil speed him ! no man's pie is freed 
From his ambitious finger . What had he 
To do in these fierce vanities ? I wonder 
That such a keech can with his very bulk 
Take up the rays o' the beneficial sun ,
And keep it from the earth .

Surely , sir ,
There's in him stuff that puts him to these ends ;
For , being not propp'd by ancestry , whose grace 
Chalks successors their way , nor call'd upon 
For high feats done to the crown ; neither allied 
To eminent assistants ; but , spider-like ,
Out of his self-drawing web , he gives us note ,
The force of his own merit makes his way ;
A gift that heaven gives for him , which buys 
A place next to the king .

I cannot tell 
What heaven hath given him : let some graver eye 
Pierce into that ; but I can see his pride 
Peep through each part of him : whence has he that ?
If not from hell , the devil is a niggard ,
Or has given all before , and he begins 
A new hell in himself .

Why the devil ,
Upon this French going-out , took he upon him ,
Without the privity o' the king , to appoint 
Who should attend on him ? He makes up the file 
Of all the gentry ; for the most part such 
To whom as great a charge as little honour 
He meant to lay upon : and his own letter ,
The honourable board of council out ,
Must fetch him in he papers .

I do know 
Kinsmen of mine , three at the least , that have 
By this so sicken'd their estates , that never 
They shall abound as formerly .

O ! many 
Have broke their backs with laying manors on 'em 
For this great journey . What did this vanity 
But minister communication of 
A most poor issue ?

Grievingly I think ,
The peace between the French and us not values 
The cost that did conclude it .

Every man ,
After the hideous storm that follow'd , was 
A thing inspir'd ; and , not consulting , broke 
Into a general prophecy : That this tempest ,
Dashing the garment of this peace , aboded 
The sudden breach on't .

Which is budded out ;
For France hath flaw'd the league , and hath attach'd 
Our merchants' goods at Bourdeaux .

Is it therefore 
The ambassador is silenc'd ?

Marry , is't .

A proper title of a peace ; and purchas'd 
At a superfluous rate !

Why , all this business 
Our reverend cardinal carried .

Like it your Grace ,
The state takes notice of the private difference 
Betwixt you and the cardinal . I advise you ,
And take it from a heart that wishes towards you 
Honour and plenteous safety ,that you read 
The cardinal's malice and his potency 
Together ; to consider further that 
What his high hatred would effect wants not 
A minister in his power . You know his nature ,
That he's revengeful ; and I know his sword 
Hath a sharp edge : it's long , and 't may be said ,
It reaches far ; and where 'twill not extend ,
Thither he darts it . Bosom up my counsel ,
You'll find it wholesome . Lo where comes that rock 
That I advise your shunning .

The Duke of Buckingham's surveyor , ha ?
Where's his examination ?

Here , so please you .

Is he in person ready ?

Ay , please your Grace .

Well , we shall then know more ; and Buckingham 
Shall lessen this big look .


This butcher's cur is venom-mouth'd , and I 
Have not the power to muzzle him ; therefore best 
Not wake him in his slumber . A beggar's book 
Outworths a noble's blood .

What ! are you chaf'd ?
Ask God for temperance ; that's the appliance only 
Which your disease requires .

I read in's looks 
Matter against me ; and his eye revil'd 
Me , as his abject object : at this instant 
He bores me with some trick : he's gone to the king ;
I'll follow , and out-stare him .

Stay , my lord ,
And let your reason with your choler question 
What 'tis you go about . To climb steep hills 
Requires slow pace at first : anger is like 
A full-hot horse , who being allow'd his way ,
Self-mettle tires him . Not a man in England 
Can advise me like you : be to yourself 
As you would to your friend .

I'll to the king ;
And from a mouth of honour quite cry down 
This Ipswich fellow's insolence , or proclaim 
There's difference in no persons .

Be advis'd ;
Heat not a furnace for your foe so hot 
That it do singe yourself . We may outrun 
By violent swiftness that which we run at ,
And lose by overrunning . Know you not ,
The fire that mounts the liquor till it run o'er ,
In seeming to augment it wastes it ? Be advis'd :
I say again , there is no English soul 
More stronger to direct you than yourself ,
If with the sap of reason you would quench ,
Or but allay , the fire of passion .

Sir ,
I am thankful to you , and I'll go along 
By your prescription : but this top-proud fellow 
Whom from the flow of gall I name not , but 
From sincere motions ,by intelligence ,
And proofs as clear as founts in July , when 
We see each grain of gravel ,I do know 
To be corrupt and treasonous .

Say not , 'treasonous .' 

To the king I'll say't ; and make my vouch as strong 
As shore of rock . Attend . This holy fox ,
Or wolf , or both ,for he is equal ravenous 
As he is subtle , and as prone to mischief 
As able to perform 't , his mind and place 
Infecting one another , yea , reciprocally ,
Only to show his pomp as well in France 
As here at home , suggests the king our master 
To this last costly treaty , the interview ,
That swallow'd so much treasure , and like a glass 
Did break i' the rinsing .

Faith , and so it did .

Praygive me favour , sir . This cunning cardinal 
The articles o' the combination drew 
As himself pleas'd ; and they were ratified 
As he cried , 'Thus let be ,' to as much end 
As give a crutch to the dead . But our count-cardinal 
Has done this , and 'tis well ; for worthy Wolsey ,
Who cannot err , he did it . Now this follows ,
Which , as I take it , is a kind of puppy 
To the old dam , treason , Charles the emperor ,
Under pretence to see the queen his aunt ,
For 'twas indeed his colour , but he came 
To whisper Wolsey ,here makes visitation :
His fears were , that the interview betwixt 
England and France might , through their amity ,
Breed him some prejudice ; for from this league 
Peep'd harms that menac'd him . He privily 
Deals with our cardinal , and , as I trow ,
Which I do well ; for , I am sure the emperor 
Paid ere he promis'd ; whereby his suit was granted 
Ere it was ask'd ; but when the way was made ,
And pav'd with gold , the emperor thus desir'd :
That he would please to alter the king's course ,
And break the foresaid peace . Let the king know 
As soon he shall by me that thus the cardinal 
Does buy and sell his honour as he pleases ,
And for his own advantage .

I am sorry 
To hear this of him ; and could wish he were 
Something mistaken in 't .

No , not a syllable :
I do pronounce him in that very shape 
He shall appear in proof .


Your office , sergeant ; execute it .

Sir ,
My Lord the Duke of Buckingham , and Earl 
Of Hereford , Stafford , and Northampton , I 
Arrest thee of high treason , in the name 
Of our most sovereign king .

Lo you , my lord ,
The net has fall'n upon me ! I shall perish 
Under device and practice .

I am sorry 
To see you ta'en from liberty , to look on 
The business present . 'Tis his highness' pleasure 
You shall to the Tower .

It will help me nothing 
To plead mine innocence , for that dye is on me 
Which makes my whit'st part black . The will of heaven 
Be done in this and all things ! I obey .
O ! my Lord Abergavenny , fare you well !

Nay , he must bear you company .

The king 
Is pleas'd you shall to the Tower , till you know 
How he determines further .

As the duke said ,
The will of heaven be done , and the king's pleasure 
By me obey'd !

Here is a warrant from 
The king to attach Lord Montacute ; and the bodies 
Of the duke's confessor , John de la Car ,
One Gilbert Peck , his chancellor ,

So , so ;
These are the limbs o' the plot : no more , I hope .

A monk o' the Chartreux .

O ! Nicholas Hopkins ?

He .

My surveyor is false ; the o'er-great cardinal 
Hath show'd him gold . My life is spann'd already :
I am the shadow of poor Buckingham ,
Whose figure even this instant cloud puts on ,
By dark'ning my clear sun . My lord , farewell .


My life itself , and the best heart of it ,
Thanks you for this great care : I stood i' the level 
Of a full-charg'd confederacy , and give thanks 
To you that chok'd it . Let be call'd before us 
That gentleman of Buckingham's ; in person 
I'll hear him his confessions justify ;
And point by point the treasons of his master 
He shall again relate .

Nay , we must longer kneel : I am a suitor .

Arise , and take place by us : half your suit 
Never name to us ; you have half our power :
The other moiety , ere you ask , is given ;
Repeat your will , and take it .

Thank your majesty .
That you would love yourself , and in that love 
Not unconsider'd leave your honour , nor 
The dignity of your office , is the point 
Of my petition .

Lady mine , proceed .

I am solicited , not by a few ,
And those of true condition , that your subjects 
Are in great grievance : there have been commissions 
Sent down among 'em , which hath flaw'd the heart 
Of all their loyalties : wherein , although ,
My good Lord Cardinal , they vent reproaches 
Most bitterly on you , as putter-on 
Of these exactions , yet the king our master ,
Whose honour heaven shield from soil !even he escapes not 
Language unmannerly ; yea , such which breaks 
The sides of loyalty , and almost appears 
In loud rebellion .

Not almost appears ,
It doth appear ; for , upon these taxations ,
The clothiers all , not able to maintain 
The many to them 'longing , have put off 
The spinsters , carders , fullers , weavers , who ,
Unfit for other life , compell'd by hunger 
And lack of other means , in desperate manner 
Daring the event to the teeth , are all in uproar ,
And danger serves among them .

Taxation !
Wherein ? and what taxation ? My Lord Cardinal ,
You that are blam'd for it alike with us ,
Know you of this taxation ?

Please you , sir ,
I know but of a single part in aught 
Pertains to the state ; and front but in that file 
Where others tell steps with me .

No , my lord ,
You know no more than others ; but you frame 
Things that are known alike ; which are not wholesome 
To those which would not know them , and yet must 
Perforce be their acquaintance . These exactions ,
Whereof my sov'reign would have note , they are 
Most pestilent to the hearing ; and to bear 'em ,
The back is sacrifice to the load . They say 
They are devis'd by you , or else you suffer 
Too hard an exclamation .

Still exaction !
The nature of it ? In what kind , let's know ,
Is this exaction ?

I am much too venturous 
In tempting of your patience ; but am bolden'd 
Under your promis'd pardon . The subjects' grief 
Comes through commissions , which compel from each 
The sixth part of his substance , to be levied 
Without delay ; and the pretence for this 
Is nam'd , your wars in France . This makes bold mouths :
Tongues spit their duties out , and cold hearts freeze 
Allegiance in them ; their curses now 
Live where their prayers did ; and it's come to pass ,
This tractable obedience is a slave 
To each incensed will . I would your highness 
Would give it quick consideration , for 
There is no primer business .

By my life ,
This is against our pleasure .

And for me ,
I have no further gone in this than by 
A single voice , and that not pass'd me but 
By learned approbation of the judges . If I am 
Traduc'd by ignorant tongues , which neither know 
My faculties nor person , yet will be 
The chronicles of my doing , let me say 
'Tis but the fate of place , and the rough brake 
That virtue must go through . We must not stint 
Our necessary actions , in the fear 
To cope malicious censurers ; which ever ,
As rav'nous fishes , do a vessel follow 
That is new-trimm'd , but benefit no further 
Than vainly longing . What we oft do best ,
By sick interpreters , once weak ones , is 
Not ours , or not allow'd ; what worst , as oft ,
Hitting a grosser quality , is cried up 
For our best act . If we shall stand still ,
In fear our motion will be mock'd or carp'd at ,
We should take root here where we sit , or sit 
State-statues only .

Things done well ,
And with a care , exempt themselves from fear ;
Things done without example , in their issue 
Are to be fear'd . Have you a precedent 
Of this commission ? I believe , not any .
We must not rend our subjects from our laws ,
And stick them in our will . Sixth part of each ?
A trembling contribution ! Why , we take 
From every tree , lop , bark , and part o' the timber ;
And , though we leave it with a root , thus hack'd ,
The air will drink the sap . To every county 
Where this is question'd , send our letters , with 
Free pardon to each man that has denied 
The force of this commission . Pray , look to 't ;
I put it to your care .

A word with you .
Let there be letters writ to every shire ,
Of the king's grace and pardon . The griev'd commons 
Hardly conceive of me ; let it be nois'd 
That through our intercession this revokement 
And pardon comes : I shall anon advise you 
Further in the proceeding .

I am sorry that the Duke of Buckingham 
Is run in your displeasure .

It grieves many :
The gentleman is learn'd , and a most rare speaker ,
To nature none more bound ; his training such 
That he may furnish and instruct great teachers ,
And never seek for aid out of himself . Yet see ,
When these so noble benefits shall prove 
Not well dispos'd , the mind growing once corrupt ,
They turn to vicious forms , ten times more ugly 
Than ever they were fair . This man so complete ,
Who was enroll'd 'mongst wonders , and when we ,
Almost with ravish'd listening , could not find 
His hour of speech a minute ; he , my lady ,
Hath into monstrous habits put the graces 
That once were his , and is become as black 
As if besmear'd in hell . Sit by us ; you shall hear 
This was his gentleman in trust of him 
Things to strike honour sad . Bid him recount 
The fore-recited practices ; whereof 
We cannot feel too little , hear too much .

Stand forth ; and with bold spirit relate what you ,
Most like a careful subject , have collected 
Out of the Duke of Buckingham .

Speak freely .

First , it was usual with him , every day 
It would infect his speech , that if the king 
Should without issue die , he'd carry it so 
To make the sceptre his . These very words 
I've heard him utter to his son-in-law ,
Lord Abergavenny , to whom by oath he menac'd 
Revenge upon the cardinal .

Please your highness , note 
This dangerous conception in this point .
Not friended by his wish , to your high person 
His will is most malignant ; and it stretches 
Beyond you , to your friends .

My learn'd Lord Cardinal ,
Deliver all with charity .

Speak on :
How grounded he his title to the crown 
Upon our fail ? to this point hast thou heard him 
At any time speak aught ?

He was brought to this 
By a vain prophecy of Nicholas Hopkins .

What was that Hopkins ?

Sir , a Chartreux friar ,
His confessor , who fed him every minute 
With words of sovereignty .

How know'st thou this ?

Not long before your highness sped to France ,
The duke being at the Rose , within the parish 
Saint Lawrence Poultney , did of me demand 
What was the speech among the Londoners 
Concerning the French journey : I replied ,
Men fear'd the French would prove perfidious ,
To the king's danger . Presently the duke 
Said , 'twas the fear , indeed ; and that he doubted 
'Twould prove the verity of certain words 
Spoke by a holy monk ; 'that oft ,' says he ,
'Hath sent to me , wishing me to permit 
John de la Car , my chaplain , a choice hour 
To hear from him a matter of some moment :
Whom after under the confession's seal 
He solemnly had sworn , that what he spoke ,
My chaplain to no creature living but 
To me should utter , with demure confidence 
This pausingly ensu'd : neither the king nor 's heirs 
Tell you the duke shall prosper : bid him strive 
To gain the love o' the commonalty : the duke 
Shall govern England .' 

If I know you well ,
You were the duke's surveyor , and lost your office 
On the complaint o' the tenants : take good heed 
You charge not in your spleen a noble person ,
And spoil your nobler soul . I say , take heed ;
Yes , heartily beseech you .

Let him on .
Go forward .

On my soul , I'll speak but truth .
I told my lord the duke , by the devil's illusions 
The monk might be deceiv'd ; and that 'twas dangerous for him 
To ruminate on this so far , until 
It forg'd him some design , which , being believ'd ,
It was much like to do . He answer'd , 'Tush !
It can do me no damage ;' adding further ,
That had the king in his last sickness fail'd ,
The cardinal's and Sir Thomas Lovell's heads 
Should have gone off .

Ha ! what , so rank ? Ah , ha !
There's mischief in this man . Canst thou say further ?

I can , my liege .

Proceed .

Being at Greenwich ,
After your highness had reprov'd the duke 
About Sir William Blomer ,

I remember 
Of such a time : being my sworn servant ,
The duke retain'd him his . But on ; what hence ?

'If ,' quoth he , 'I for this had been committed ,
As , to the Tower , I thought , I would have play'd 
The part my father meant to act upon 
The usurper Richard ; who , being at Salisbury ,
Made suit to come in 's presence ; which if granted ,
As he made semblance of his duty , would 
Have put his knife into him .' 

A giant traitor !

Now , madam , may his highness live in freedom ,
And this man out of prison ?

God mend all !

There's something more would out of thee ? what sayst ?

After 'the duke his father ,' with 'the knife ,' 
He stretch'd him , and , with one hand on his dagger ,
Another spread on's breast , mounting his eyes ,
He did discharge a horrible oath ; whose tenour 
Was , were he evil us'd , he would outgo 
His father by as much as a performance 
Does an irresolute purpose .

There's his period ;
To sheathe his knife in us . He is attach'd ;
Call him to present trial : if he may 
Find mercy in the law , 'tis his ; if none ,
Let him not seek't of us : by day and night !
He's traitor to the height .


Is't possible the spells of France should juggle 
Men into such strange mysteries ?

New customs ,
Though they be never so ridiculous ,
Nay , let 'em be unmanly , yet are follow'd .

As far as I see , all the good our English 
Have got by the late voyage is but merely 
A fit or two o' the face ; but they are shrewd ones ;
For when they hold 'em , you would swear directly 
Their very noses had been counsellors 
To Pepin or Clotharius , they keep state so .

They have all new legs , and lame ones : one would take it ,
That never saw 'em pace before , the spavin 
Or springhalt reign'd among 'em .

Death ! my lord ,
Their clothes are after such a pagan cut too ,
That , sure , they've worn out Christendom .


How now !

What news , Sir Thomas Lovell ?

Faith , my lord ,
I hear of none , but the new proclamation 
That's clapp'd upon the court-gate .

What is't for ?

The reformation of our travell'd gallants ,
That fill the court with quarrels , talk , and tailors .

I am glad 'tis there : now I would pray our monsieurs 
To think an English courtier may be wise ,
And never see the Louvre .

They must either 
For so run the conditions leave those remnants 
Of fool and feather that they got in France ,
With all their honourable points of ignorance 
Pertaining thereunto ,as fights and fireworks ;
Abusing better men than they can be ,
Out of a foreign wisdom ;renouncing clean 
The faith they have in tennis and tall stockings ,
Short blister'd breeches , and those types of travel ,
And understand again like honest men ;
Or pack to their old playfellows : there , I take it ,
They may , cum privilegio , wear away 
The lag end of their lewdness , and be laugh'd at .

'Tis time to give 'em physic , their diseases 
Are grown so catching .

What a loss our ladies 
Will have of these trim vanities !

Ay , marry ,
There will be woe indeed , lords : the sly whoresons 
Have got a speeding trick to lay down ladies ;
A French song and a fiddle has no fellow .

The devil fiddle 'em ! I am glad they're going :
For , sure , there's no converting of 'em : now 
An honest country lord , as I am , beaten 
A long time out of play , may bring his plainsong 
And have an hour of hearing ; and , by'r lady ,
Held current music too .

Well said , Lord Sands ;
Your colt's tooth is not cast yet .

No , my lord ;
Nor shall not , while I have a stump .

Sir Thomas ,
Whither were you a-going ?

To the cardinal's :
Your lordship is a guest too .

O ! 'tis true :
This night he makes a supper , and a great one ,
To many lords and ladies ; there will be 
The beauty of this kingdom , I'll assure you .

That churchman bears a bounteous mind indeed ,
A hand as fruitful as the land that feeds us ;
His dews fall everywhere .

No doubt he's noble ;
He had a black mouth that said other of him .

He may , my lord ; he has wherewithal : in him 
Sparing would show a worse sin than ill doctrine :
Men of his way should be most liberal ;
They are set here for examples .

True , they are so ;
But few now give so great ones . My barge stays ;
Your lordship shall along . Come , good Sir Thomas ,
We shall be late else ; which I would not be ,
For I was spoke to , with Sir Henry Guildford ,
This night to be comptrollers .

I am your lordship's .

Ladies , a general welcome from his Grace 
Salutes ye all ; this night he dedicates 
To fair content and you . None here , he hopes ,
In all this noble bevy , has brought with her 
One care abroad ; he would have all as merry 
As , first , good company , good wine , good welcome 
Can make good people .

O , my lord ! you're tardy :
The very thought of this fair company 
Clapp'd wings to me .

You are young , Sir Harry Guildford .

Sir Thomas Lovell , had the cardinal 
But half my lay-thoughts in him , some of these 
Should find a running banquet ere they rested ,
I think would better please 'em : by my life ,
They are a sweet society of fair ones .

O ! that your lordship were but now confessor 
To one or two of these !

I would I were ;
They should find easy penance .

Faith , how easy ?

As easy as a down-bed would afford it .

Sweet ladies , will it please you sit ? Sir Harry ,
Place you that side , I'll take the charge of this ;
His Grace is ent'ring . Nay you must not freeze ;
Two women plac'd together makes cold weather :
My Lord Sands , you are one will keep 'em waking ;
Pray , sit between these ladies .

By my faith ,
And thank your lordship . By your leave , sweet ladies :

If I chance to talk a little wild , forgive me ;
I had it from my father .

Was he mad , sir ?

O ! very mad , exceeding mad ; in love too :
But he would bite none ; just as I do now ,
He would kiss you twenty with a breath .


Well said , my lord .
So , now you're fairly seated . Gentlemen ,
The penance lies on you , if these fair ladies 
Pass away frowning .

For my little cure ,
Let me alone .


You're welcome , my fair guests : that noble lady ,
Or gentleman , that is not freely merry ,
Is not my friend : this , to confirm my welcome ;
And to you all , good health .


Your Grace is noble :
Let me have such a bowl may hold my thanks ,
And save me so much talking .

My Lord Sands ,
I am beholding to you : cheer your neighbours .
Ladies , you are not merry : gentlemen ,
Whose fault is this ?

The red wine first must rise 
In their fair cheeks , my lord ; then , we shall have 'em 
Talk us to silence .

You are a merry gamester ,
My Lord Sands .

Yes , if I make my play .
Here's to your ladyship ; and pledge it , madam ,
For 'tis to such a thing ,

You cannot show me .

I told your Grace they would talk anon .


What's that ?

Look out there , some of ye .


What war-like voice ,
And to what end , is this ? Nay , ladies , fear not ;
By all the laws of war you're privileg'd .


How now , what is't ?

A noble troop of strangers ;
For so they seem : they've left their barge and landed ;
And hither make , as great ambassadors 
From foreign princes .

Good Lord Chamberlain ,
Go , give 'em welcome ; you can speak the French tongue ;
And , pray , receive 'em nobly , and conduct 'em 
Into our presence , where this heaven of beauty 
Shall shine at full upon them . Some attend him .

You have now a broken banquet ; but we'll mend it .
A good digestion to you all ; and once more 
I shower a welcome on ye ; welcome all .

A noble company ! what are their pleasures ?

Because they speak no English , thus they pray'd 
To tell your Grace : that , having heard by fame 
Of this so noble and so fair assembly 
This night to meet here , they could do no less ,
Out of the great respect they bear to beauty ,
But leave their flocks ; and , under your fair conduct ,
Crave leave to view these ladies , and entreat 
An hour of revels with 'em .

Say , Lord Chamberlain ,
They have done my poor house grace ; for which I pay 'em 
A thousand thanks , and pray 'em take their pleasures .


The fairest hand I ever touch'd ! O beauty ,
Till now I never knew thee !


My lord .

Your Grace ?

Pray tell them thus much from me :
There should be one amongst 'em , by his person ,
More worthy this place than myself ; to whom ,
If I but knew him , with my love and duty 
I would surrender it .

I will , my lord .


What say they ?

Such a one , they all confess ,
There is , indeed ; which they would have your Grace 
Find out , and he will take it .

Let me see then .

By all your good leaves , gentlemen , here I'll make 
My royal choice .

You have found him , cardinal .
You hold a fair assembly ; you do well , lord :
You are a churchman , or , I'll tell you , cardinal ,
I should judge now unhappily .

I am glad 
Your Grace is grown so pleasant .

My Lord Chamberlain ,
Prithee , come hither . What fair lady's that ?

An't please your Grace , Sir Thomas Bullen's daughter ,
The Viscount Rochford , one of her highness' women .

By heaven , she is a dainty one . Sweetheart ,
I were unmannerly to take you out ,
And not to kiss you . A health , gentlemen !
Let it go round .

Sir Thomas Lovell , is the banquest ready 
I' the privy chamber ?

Yes , my lord .

Your Grace ,
I fear , with dancing is a little heated .

I fear , too much .

There's fresher air , my lord ,
In the next chamber .

Lead in your ladies , every one . Sweet partner ,
I must not yet forsake you . Let's be merry :
Good my Lord Cardinal , I have half a dozen healths 
To drink to these fair ladies , and a measure 
To lead 'em once again ; and then let's dream 
Who's best in favour . Let the music knock it .


Whither away so fast ?

O ! God save ye .
E'en to the hall , to hear what shall become 
Of the great Duke of Buckingham .

I'll save you 
That labour , sir . All's now done but the ceremony 
Of bringing back the prisoner .

Were you there ?

Yes , indeed , was I .

Pray speak what has happen'd .

You may guess quickly what .

Is he found guilty ?

Yes , truly is he , and condemn'd upon't .

I am sorry for 't .

So are a number more .

But , pray , how pass'd it ?

I'll tell you in a little . The great duke 
Came to the bar ; where , to his accusations 
He pleaded still not guilty , and alleg'd 
Many sharp reasons to defeat the law .
The king's attorney on the contrary 
Urg'd on the examinations , proofs , confessions 
Of divers witnesses , which the duke desir'd 
To have brought , viv  voce , to his face :
At which appear'd against him his surveyor ;
Sir Gilbert Peck his chancellor ; and John Car ,
Confessor to him ; with that devil-monk ,
Hopkins , that made this mischief .

That was he 
That fed him with his prophecies ?

The same .
All these accus'd him strongly ; which he fain 
Would have flung from him , but , indeed , he could not :
And so his peers , upon this evidence ,
Have found him guilty of high treason . Much 
He spoke , and learnedly , for life ; but all 
Was either pitied in him or forgotten .

After all this how did he bear himself ?

When he was brought again to the bar , to hear 
His knell rung out , his judgment , he was stirr'd 
With such an agony , he sweat extremely ,
And something spoke in choler , ill , and hasty :
But he fell to himself again , and sweetly 
In all the rest show'd a most noble patience .

I do not think he fears death .

Sure , he does not ;
He never was so womanish ; the cause 
He may a little grieve at .

Certainly 
The cardinal is the end of this .

'Tis likely 
By all conjectures : first , Kildare's attainder ,
Then deputy of Ireland ; who , remov'd ,
Earl Surrey was sent thither , and in haste too ,
Lest he should help his father .

That trick of state 
Was a deep envious one .

At his return ,
No doubt he will requite it . This is noted ,
And generally , whoever the king favours ,
The cardinal instantly will find employment ,
And far enough from court too .

All the commons 
Hate him perniciously , and o' my conscience ,
Wish him ten fathom deep : this duke as much 
They love and dote on ; call him bounteous Buckingham ,
The mirror of all courtesy ;

Stay there , sir ,
And see the noble ruin'd man you speak of .

Let's stand close , and behold him .

All good people ,
You that thus far have come to pity me ,
Hear what I say , and then go home and lose me .
I have this day receiv'd a traitor's judgment ,
And by that name must die : yet , heaven bear witness ,
And if I have a conscience , let it sink me ,
Even as the axe falls , if I be not faithful !
The law I bear no malice for my death ,
'T has done upon the premises but justice ;
But those that sought it I could wish more Christians :
Be what they will , I heartily forgive 'em .
Yet let 'em look they glory not in mischief ,
Nor build their evils on the graves of great men ;
For then my guiltless blood must cry against 'em .
For further life in this world I ne'er hope ,
Nor will I sue , although the king have mercies 
More than I dare make faults . You few that lov'd me ,
And dare be bold to weep for Buckingham ,
His noble friends and fellows , whom to leave 
Is only bitter to him , only dying ,
Go with me , like good angels , to my end ;
And , as the long divorce of steel falls on me ,
Make of your prayers one sweet sacrifice ,
And lift my soul to heaven . Lead on , o' God's name .

I do beseech your Grace , for charity ,
If ever any malice in your heart 
Were hid against me , now to forgive me frankly .

Sir Thomas Lovell , I as free forgive you 
As I would be forgiven : I forgive all .
There cannot be those numberless offences 
'Gainst me that I cannot take peace with : no black envy 
Shall mark my grave . Commend me to his Grace ;
And , if he speak of Buckingham , pray , tell him 
You met him half in heaven . My vows and prayers 
Yet are the king's ; and , till my soul forsake ,
Shall cry for blessings on him : may he live 
Longer than I have time to tell his years !
Ever belov'd and loving may his rule be !
And when old time shall lead him to his end ,
Goodness and he fill up one monument !

To the water side I must conduct your Grace ;
Then give my charge up to Sir Nicholas Vaux ,
Who undertakes you to your end .

Prepare there !
The duke is coming : see the barge be ready ;
And fit it with such furniture as suits 
The greatness of his person .

Nay , Sir Nicholas ,
Let it alone ; my state now will but mock me .
When I came hither , I was Lord High Constable ,
And Duke of Buckingham ; now , poor Edward Bohun :
Yet I am richer than my base accusers ,
That never knew what truth meant : I now seal it ;
And with that blood will make them one day groan for't .
My noble father , Henry of Buckingham ,
Who first rais'd head against usurping Richard ,
Flying for succour to his servant Banister ,
Being distress'd , was by that wretch betray'd ,
And without trial fell : God's peace be with him !
Henry the Seventh succeeding , truly pitying 
My father's loss , like a most royal prince ,
Restor'd me to my honours , and , out of ruins ,
Made my name once more noble . Now his son ,
Henry the Eighth , life , honour , name , and all 
That made me happy , at one stroke has taken 
For ever from the world . I had my trial ,
And , must needs say , a noble one ; which makes me 
A little happier than my wretched father :
Yet thus far we are one in fortunes ; both 
Fell by our servants , by those men welov'd most :
A most unnatural and faithless service !
Heaven has an end in all ; yet , you that hear me ,
This from a dying man receive as certain :
Where you are liberal of your loves and counsels 
Be sure you be not loose ; for those you make friends 
And give your hearts to , when they once perceive 
The least rub in your fortunes , fall away 
Like water from ye , never found again 
But where they mean to sink ye . All good people ,
Pray for me ! I must now forsake ye : the last hour 
Of my long weary life is come upon me .
Farewell :
And when you would say something that is sad ,
Speak how I fell . I have done ; and God forgive me !


O ! this is full of pity ! Sir , it calls ,
I fear , too many curses on their heads 
That were the authors .

If the duke be guiltless ,
'Tis full of woe ; yet I can give you inkling 
Of an ensuing evil , if it fall ,
Greater than this .

Good angels keep it from us !
What may it be ? You do not doubt my faith , sir ?

This secret is so weighty , 'twill require 
A strong faith to conceal it .

Let me have it ;
I do not talk much .

I am confident :
You shall , sir . Did you not of late days hear 
A buzzing of a separation 
Between the king and Katharine ?

Yes , but it held not ;
For when the king once heard it , out of anger 
He sent command to the lord mayor straight 
To stop the rumour , and allay those tongues 
That durst disperse it .

But that slander , sir ,
Is found a truth now ; for it grows again 
Fresher than e'er it was ; and held for certain 
The king will venture at it . Either the cardinal ,
Or some about him near , have , out of malice 
To the good queen , possess'd him with a scruple 
That will undo her : to confirm this too ,
Cardinal Campeius is arriv'd , and lately ;
As all think , for this business .

'Tis the cardinal ;
And merely to revenge him on the emperor 
For not bestowing on him , at his asking ,
The archbishopric of Toledo , this is purpos'd .

I think you have hit the mark : but is't not cruel 
That she should feel the smart of this ? The cardinal 
Will have his will , and she must fall .

'Tis woeful .
We are too open here to argue this ;
Let's think in private more .


My lord , The horses your lordship sent for , with all the care I had , I saw well chosen , ridden , and furnished . They were young and handsome , and of the best breed in the north . When they were ready to set out for London , a man of my Lord Cardinal's , by commission and main power , took them from me ; with this reason : His master would be served before a subject , if not before the king ; which stopped our mouths , sir .
I fear he will indeed . Well , let him have them :
He will have all , I think .


Well met , my Lord Chamberlain .

Good day to both your Graces .

How is the king employ'd ?

I left him private ,
Full of sad thoughts and troubles .

What's the cause ?

It seems the marriage with his brother's wife 
Has crept too near his conscience .

No ; his conscience 
Has crept too near another lady .

'Tis so :
This is the cardinal's doing , the king-cardinal :
That blind priest , like the eldest son of Fortune ,
Turns what he list . The king will know him one day .

Pray God he do ! he'll never know himself else .

How holily he works in all his business ,
And with what zeal ! for , now he has crack'd the league 
Between us and the emperor , the queen's great nephew ,
He dives into the king's soul , and there scatters 
Dangers , doubts , wringing of the conscience ,
Fears , and despairs ; and all these for his marriage :
And out of all these , to restore the king ,
He counsels a divorce ; a loss of her ,
That like a jewel has hung twenty years 
About his neck , yet never lost her lustre ;
Of her , that loves him with that excellence 
That angels love good men with ; even of her ,
That , when the greatest stroke of fortune falls ,
Will bless the king : and is not this course pious ?

Heaven keep me from such counsel ! 'Tis most true 
These news are every where ; every tongue speaks 'em ,
And every true heart weeps for't . All that dare 
Look into these affairs , see this main end ,
The French king's sister . Heaven will one day open 
The king's eyes , that so long have slept upon 
This bold bad man .

And free us from his slavery .

We had need pray ,
And heartily , for our deliverance ;
Or this imperious man will work us all 
From princes into pages . All men's honours 
Lie like one lump before him , to be fashion'd 
Into what pitch he please .

For me , my lords ,
I love him not , nor fear him ; there's my creed .
As I am made without him , so I'll stand ,
If the king please ; his curses and his blessings 
Touch me alike , they're breath I not believe in .
I knew him , and I know him ; so I leave him 
To him that made him proud , the pope .

Let's in ;
And with some other business put the king 
From these sad thoughts , that work too much upon him .
My lord , you'll bear us company ?

Excuse me ;
The king hath sent me otherwhere : besides ,
You'll find a most unfit time to disturb him :
Health to your lordships .

Thanks , my good Lord Chamberlain .

How sad he looks ! sure , he is much afflicted .

Who is there , ha ?

Pray God he be not angry .

Who's there , I say ? How dare you thrust yourselves 
Into my private meditations ?
Who am I , ha ?

A gracious king that pardons all offences 
Malice ne'er meant : our breach of duty this way 
Is business of estate ; in which we come 
To know your royal pleasure .

Ye are too bold .
Go to ; I'll make ye know your times of business :
Is this an hour for temporal affairs , ha ?


Who's there ? my good Lord Cardinal ? O ! my Wolsey ,
The quiet of my wounded conscience ;
Thou art a cure fit for a king .

You're welcome ,
Most learned reverend sir , into our kingdom :
Use us , and it .

My good lord , have great care 

I be not found a talker .

Sir , you cannot .
I would your Grace would give us but an hour 
Of private conference .

We are busy : go .

This priest has no pride in him !

Not to speak of ;
I would not be so sick though for his place :
But this cannot continue .

If it do ,
I'll venture one have-at-him .

I another .


Your Grace has given a precedent of wisdom 
Above all princes , in committing freely 
Your scruple to the voice of Christendom .
Who can be angry now ? what envy reach you ?
The Spaniard , tied by blood and favour to her ,
Must now confess , if they have any goodness ,
The trial just and noble . All the clerks ,
I mean the learned ones , in Christian kingdoms 
Have their free voices : Rome , the nurse of judgment ,
Invited by your noble self , hath sent 
One general tongue unto us , this good man ,
This just and learned priest , Cardinal Campeius ;
Whom once more I present unto your highness .

And once more in my arms I bid him welcome ,
And thank the holy conclave for their loves :
They have sent me such a man I would have wish'd for .

Your Grace must needs deserve all strangers' loves ,
You are so noble . To your highness' hand 
I tender my commission , by whose virtue ,
The court of Rome commanding ,you , my Lord 
Cardinal of York , are join'd with me , their servant ,
In the impartial judging of this business .

Two equal men . The queen shall be acquainted 
Forthwith for what you come . Where's Gardiner ?

I know your majesty has always lov'd her 
So dear in heart , not to deny her that 
A woman of less place might ask by law ,
Scholars , allow'd freely to argue for her .

Ay , and the best , she shall have ; and my favour 
To him that does best : God forbid else . Cardinal ,
Prithee , call Gardiner to me , my new secretary :
I find him a fit fellow .

Give me your hand ; much joy and favour to you ;
You are the king's now .

But to be commanded 
For ever by your Grace , whose hand has rais'd me .

Come hither , Gardiner .


My Lord of York , was not one Doctor Pace 
In this man's place before him ?

Yes , he was .

Was he not held a learned man ?

Yes , surely .

Believe me , there's an ill opinion spread then 
Even of yourself , Lord Cardinal .

How ! of me ?

They will not stick to say , you envied him ,
And fearing he would rise , he was so virtuous ,
Kept him a foreign man still ; which so griev'd him 
That he ran mad and died .

Heaven's peace be with him !
That's Christian care enough : for living murmurers 
There's places of rebuke . He was a fool ,
For he would needs be virtuous : that good fellow ,
If I command him , follows my appointment :
I will have none so near else . Learn this , brother ,
We live not to be grip'd by meaner persons .

Deliver this with modesty to the queen .

The most convenient place that I can think of 
For such receipt of learning , is Black-Friars ;
There ye shall meet about this weighty business .
My Wolsey , see it furnish'd . O my lord !
Would it not grieve an able man to leave 
So sweet a bedfellow ? But , conscience , conscience !
O ! 'tis a tender place , and I must leave her .


Not for that neither : here's the pang that pinches :
His highness having liv'd so long with her , and she 
So good a lady that no tongue could ever 
Pronounce dishonour of her ; by my life ,
She never knew harm-doing ; O ! now , after 
So many courses of the sun enthron'd ,
Still growing in a majesty and pomp , the which 
To leave a thousand-fold more bitter than 
'Tis sweet at first to acquire , after this process 
To give her the avaunt ! it is a pity 
Would move a monster .

Hearts of most hard temper 
Melt and lament for her .

O ! God's will ; much better 
She ne'er had known pomp : though 't be temporal ,
Yet , if that quarrel , Fortune , do divorce 
It from the bearer , 'tis a sufferance panging 
As soul and body's severing .

Alas ! poor lady ,
She's a stranger now again .

So much the more 
Must pity drop upon her . Verily ,
I swear , 'tis better to be lowly born ,
And range with humble livers in content ,
Than to be perk'd up in a glist'ring grief 
And wear a golden sorrow .

Our content 
Is our best having .

By my troth and maidenhead 
I would not be a queen .

Beshrew me , I would ,
And venture maidenhead for't ; and so would you ,
For all this spice of your hypocrisy .
You , that have so fair parts of woman on you ,
Have too a woman's heart ; which ever yet 
Affected eminence , wealth , sovereignty :
Which , to say sooth , are blessings , and which gifts 
Saving your mincing the capacity 
Of your soft cheveril conscience would receive ,
If you might please to stretch it .

Nay , good troth .

Yes , troth , and troth ; you would not be a queen ?

No , not for all the riches under heaven .

'Tis strange : a three-pence bow'd would hire me ,
Old as I am , to queen it . But , I pray you ,
What think you of a duchess ? have you limbs 
To bear that load of title ?

No , in truth .

Then you are weakly made . Pluck off a little :
I would not be a young count in your way ,
For more than blushing comes to : if your back 
Cannot vouchsafe this burden , 'tis too weak 
Ever to get a boy .

How you do talk !
I swear again , I would not be a queen 
For all the world .

In faith , for little England 
You'd venture an emballing : I myself 
Would for Carnarvonshire , although there 'long'd 
No more to the crown but that . Lo ! who comes here ?


Good morrow , ladies . What were't worth to know 
The secret of your conference ?

My good lord ,
Not your demand ; it values not your asking :
Our mistress' sorrows we were pitying .

It was a gentle business , and becoming 
The action of good women : there is hope 
All will be well .

Now , I pray God , amen !

You bear a gentle mind , and heavenly blessings 
Follow such creatures . That you may , fair lady ,
Perceive I speak sincerely , and high note's 
Ta'en of your many virtues , the king's majesty 
Commends his good opinion of you , and 
Does purpose honour to you no less flowing 
Than Marchioness of Pembroke ; to which title 
A thousand pound a year , annual support ,
Out of his grace he adds .

I do not know 
What kind of my obedience I should tender ;
More than my all is nothing , nor my prayers 
Are not words duly hallow'd , nor my wishes 
More worth than empty vanities ; yet prayers and wishes 
Are all I can return . Beseech your lordship ,
Vouchsafe to speak my thanks and my obedience ,
As from a blushing handmaid , to his highness ,
Whose health and royalty I pray for .

Lady ,
I shall not fail to approve the fair conceit 
The king hath of you .

I have perus'd her well ;
Beauty and honour in her are so mingled 
That they have caught the king ; and who knows yet 
But from this lady may proceed a gem 
To lighten all this isle ?

I'll to the king ,
And say , I spoke with you .

My honour'd lord .


Why , this it is ; see , see !
I have been begging sixteen years in court ,
Am yet a courtier beggarly , nor could 
Come pat betwixt too early and too late ;
For any suit of pounds ; and you , O fate !
A very fresh-fish here ,fie , fie , upon 
This compell'd fortune !have your mouth fill'd up 
Before you open it .

This is strange to me .

How tastes it ? is it bitter ? forty pence , no .
There was a lady once ,'tis an old story ,
That would not be a queen , that would she not ,
For all the mud in Egypt : have you heard it ?

Come , you are pleasant .

With your theme I could 
O'ermount the lark . The Marchioness of Pembroke !
A thousand pounds a year , for pure respect !
No other obligation ! By my life 
That promises more thousands : honour's train 
Is longer than his foreskirt . By this time 
I know your back will bear a duchess : say ,
Are you not stronger than you were ?

Good lady ,
Make yourself mirth with your particular fancy ,
And leave me out on't . Would I had no being ,
If this salute my blood a jot : it faints me ,
To think what follows .
The queen is comfortless , and we forgetful 
In our long absence . Pray , do not deliver 
What here you've heard to her .

What do you think me ?


Whilst our commission from Rome is read ,
Let silence be commanded .

What's the need ?
It hath already publicly been read ,
And on all sides the authority allow'd ;
You may then spare that time .

Be't so . Proceed .

Say , Henry King of England , come into the court .

Henry King of England , come into the court .

Here .

Say , Katharine Queen of England , come into the court .

Katharine Queen of England , come into the court .

Sir , I desire you do me right and justice ;
And to bestow your pity on me ; for 
I am a most poor woman , and a stranger ,
Born out of your dominions ; having here 
No judge indifferent , nor no more assurance 
Of equal friendship and proceeding . Alas ! sir ,
In what have I offended you ? what cause 
Hath my behaviour given to your displeasure ,
That thus you should proceed to put me off 
And take your good grace from me ? Heaven witness ,
I have been to you a true and humble wife ,
At all times to your will conformable ;
Ever in fear to kindle your dislike ,
Yea , subject to your countenance , glad or sorry 
As I saw it inclin'd . When was the hour 
I ever contradicted your desire ,
Or made it not mine too ? Or which of your friends 
Have I not strove to love , although I knew 
He were mine enemy ? what friend of mine 
That had to him deriv'd your anger , did I 
Continue in my liking ? nay , gave notice 
He was from thence discharg'd . Sir , call to mind 
That I have been your wife , in this obedience 
Upward of twenty years , and have been blest 
With many children by you : if , in the course 
And process of this time , you can report ,
And prove it too , against mine honour aught ,
My bond to wedlock , or my love and duty ,
Against your sacred person , in God's name 
Turn me away ; and let the foul'st contempt 
Shut door upon me , and so give me up 
To the sharp'st kind of justice . Please you , sir ,
The king , your father , was reputed for 
A prince most prudent , of an excellent 
And unmatch'd wit and judgment : Ferdinand ,
My father , King of Spain , was reckon'd one 
The wisest prince that there had reign'd by many 
A year before : it is not to be question'd 
That they had gather'd a wise council to them 
Of every realm , that did debate this business ,
Who deem'd our marriage lawful . Wherefore I humbly 
Beseech you , sir , to spare me , till I may 
Be by my friends in Spain advis'd , whose counsel 
I will implore : if not , i' the name of God ,
Your pleasure be fulfill'd !

You have here , lady ,
And of your choice ,these reverend fathers ; men 
Of singular integrity and learning ,
Yea , the elect o' the land , who are assembled 
To plead your cause . It shall be therefore bootless 
That longer you desire the court , as well 
For your own quiet , as to rectify 
What is unsettled in the king .

His Grace 
Hath spoken well and justly : therefore , madam ,
It's fit this royal session do proceed ,
And that , without delay , their arguments 
Be now produc'd and heard .

Lord Cardinal ,
To you I speak .

Your pleasure , madam ?

Sir ,
I am about to weep ; but , thinking that 
We are a queen ,or long have dream'd so ,certain 
The daughter of a king , my drops of tears 
I'll turn to sparks of fire .

Be patient yet .

I will , when you are humble ; nay , before ,
Or God will punish me . I do believe ,
Induc'd by potent circumstances , that 
You are mine enemy ; and make my challenge 
You shall not be my judge ; for it is you 
Have blown this coal betwixt my lord and me ,
Which God's dew quench ! Therefore I say again ,
I utterly abhor , yea , from my soul 
Refuse you for my judge , whom , yet once more ,
I hold my most malicious foe , and think not 
At all a friend to truth .

I do profess 
You speak not like yourself ; who ever yet 
Have stood to charity , and display'd the effects 
Of disposition gentle , and of wisdom 
O'ertopping woman's power . Madam , you do me wrong :
I have no spleen against you ; nor injustice 
For you or any : how far I have proceeded ,
Or how far further shall , is warranted 
By a commission from the consistory ,
Yea , the whole consistory of Rome . You charge me 
That I have blown this coal : I do deny it .
The king is present : if it be known to him 
That I gainsay my deed , how may he wound ,
And worthily , my falsehood ; yea , as much 
As you have done my truth . If he know 
That I am free of your report , he knows 
I am not of your wrong . Therefore in him 
It lies to cure me ; and the cure is , to 
Remove these thoughts from you : the which before 
His highness shall speak in , I do beseech 
You , gracious madam , to unthink your speaking ,
And to say so no more .

My lord , my lord ,
I am a simple woman , much too weak 
To oppose your cunning . You're meek and humble-mouth'd ;
You sign your place and calling , in full seeming ,
With meekness and humility ; but your heart 
Is cramm'd with arrogancy , spleen , and pride .
You have , by fortune and his highness' favours ,
Gone slightly o'er low steps , and now are mounted 
Where powers are your retainers , and your words ,
Domestics to you , serve your will as't please 
Yourself pronounce their office . I must tell you ,
You tender more your person's honour than 
Your high profession spiritual ; that again 
I do refuse you for my judge ; and here ,
Before you all , appeal unto the pope ,
To bring my whole cause 'fore his holiness ,
And to be judg'd by him .


The queen is obstinate ,
Stubborn to justice , apt to accuse it , and 
Disdainful to be tried by't : 'tis not well .
She's going away .

Call her again .

Katharine Queen of England , come into the court .

Madam , you are call'd back .

What need you note it ? pray you , keep your way :
When you are call'd , return . Now , the Lord help !
They vex me past my patience . Pray you , pass on :
I will not tarry ; no , nor ever more 
Upon this business my appearance make 
In any of their courts .


Go thy ways , Kate :
That man i' the world who shall report he has 
A better wife , let him in nought be trusted ,
For speaking false in that : thou art , alone ,
If thy rare qualities , sweet gentleness ,
Thy meekness saint-like , wife-like government ,
Obeying in commanding , and thy parts 
Sovereign and pious else , could speak thee out ,
The queen of earthly queens . She's noble born ;
And , like her true nobility , she has 
Carried herself towards me .

Most gracious sir ,
In humblest manner I require your highness ,
That it shall please you to declare , in hearing 
Of all these ears ,for where I am robb'd and bound 
There must I be unloos'd , although not there 
At once , and fully satisfied ,whether ever I 
Did broach this business to your highness , or 
Laid any scruple in your way , which might 
Induce you to the question on't ? or ever 
Have to you , but with thanks to God for such 
A royal lady , spake one the least word that might 
Be to the prejudice of her present state ,
Or touch of her good person ?

My Lord Cardinal ,
I do excuse you ; yea , upon mine honour ,
I free you from't . You are not to be taught 
That you have many enemies , that know not 
Why they are so , but , like to village curs ,
Bark when their fellows do : by some of these 
The queen is put in anger . You're excus'd :
But will you be more justified ? you ever 
Have wish'd the sleeping of this business ; never 
Desir'd it to be stirr'd ; but oft have hinder'd , oft ,
The passages made toward it . On my honour ,
I speak my good Lord Cardinal to this point ,
And thus far clear him . Now , what mov'd me to't ,
I will be bold with time and your attention :
Then mark the inducement . Thus it came ; give heed to't :
My conscience first receiv'd a tenderness ,
Scruple , and prick , on certain speeches utter'd 
By the Bishop of Bayonne , then French ambassador ,
Who had been hither sent on the debating 
A marriage 'twixt the Duke of Orleans and 
Our daughter Mary . I' the progress of this business ,
Ere a determinate resolution , he 
I mean , the bishop did require a respite ;
Wherein he might the king his lord advertise 
Whether our daughter were legitimate ,
Respecting this our marriage with the dowager ,
Sometimes our brother's wife . This respite shook 
The bosom of my conscience , enter'd me ,
Yea , with a splitting power , and made to tremble 
The region of my breast ; which forc'd such way ,
That many maz'd considerings did throng ,
And press'd in with this caution . First , methought 
I stood not in the smile of heaven , who had 
Commanded nature , that my lady's womb ,
If it conceiv'd a male child by me , should 
Do no more offices of life to't than 
The grave does to the dead ; for her male issue 
Or died where they were made , or shortly after 
This world had air'd them . Hence I took a thought 
This was a judgment on me ; that my kingdom ,
Well worthy the best heir o' the world , should not 
Be gladded in't by me . Then follows that 
I weigh'd the danger which my realms stood in 
By this my issue's fail ; and that gave to me 
Many a groaning throe . Thus hulling in 
The wild sea of my conscience , I did steer 
Toward this remedy , whereupon we are 
Now present here together ; that's to say ,
I meant to rectify my conscience , which 
I then did feel full sick , and yet not well ,
By all the rev'rend fathers of the land 
And doctors learn'd . First , I began in private 
With you , my Lord of Lincoln ; you remember 
How under my oppression I did reek ,
When I first mov'd you .

Very well , my liege .

I have spoke long : be pleas'd yourself to say 
How far you satisfied me .

So please your highness ,
The question did at first so stagger me ,
Bearing a state of mighty moment in't ,
And consequence of dread , that I committed 
The daring'st counsel that I had to doubt ;
And did entreat your highness to this course 
Which you are running here .

Then I mov'd you ,
My Lord of Canterbury , and got your leave 
To make this present summons . Unsolicited 
I left no reverend person in this court ;
But by particular consent proceeded 
Under your hands and seals : therefore , go on ;
For no dislike i' the world against the person 
Of the good queen , but the sharp thorny points 
Of my alleged reasons drive this forward .
Prove but our marriage lawful , by my life 
And kingly dignity , we are contented 
To wear our mortal state to come with her ,
Katharine our queen , before the primest creature 
That's paragon'd o' the world .

So please your highness ,
The queen being absent , 'tis a needful fitness 
That we adjourn this court till further day :
Mean while must be an earnest motion 
Made to the queen , to call back her appeal 
She intends unto his holiness .


I may perceive 
These cardinals trifle with me : I abhor 
This dilatory sloth and tricks of Rome .
My learn'd and well-beloved servant Cranmer ,
Prithee , return : with thy approach , I know ,
My comfort comes along . Break up the court :
I say , set on .


Take thy lute , wench : my soul grows sad with troubles ;
Sing and disperse 'em , if thou canst . Leave working .

Orpheus with his lute made trees ,
And the mountain tops that freeze ,
Bow themselves , when he did sing :
To his music plants and flowers 
Ever sprung ; as sun and showers 
There had made a lasting spring .
Every thing that heard him play ,
Even the billows of the sea ,
Hung their heads , and then lay by .
In sweet music is such art ,
Killing care and grief of heart 
Fall asleep , or hearing , die .


How now !

An't please your Grace , the two great cardinals 
Wait in the presence .

Would they speak with me ?

They will'd me say so , madam .

Pray their Graces 
To come near .

What can be their business 
With me , a poor weak woman , fall'n from favour ?
I do not like their coming , now I think on't .
They should be good men , their affairs as righteous ;
But all hoods make not monks .


Peace to your highness !

Your Graces find me here part of a housewife ,
I would be all , against the worst may happen .
What are your pleasures with me , reverend lords ?

May it please you , noble madam , to withdraw 
Into your private chamber , we shall give you 
The full cause of our coming .

Speak it here ;
There's nothing I have done yet , o' my conscience ,
Deserves a corner : would all other women 
Could speak this with as free a soul as I do !
My lords , I care not so much I am happy 
Above a number if my actions 
Were tried by every tongue , every eye saw 'em ,
Envy and base opinion set against 'em ,
I know my life so even . If your business 
Seek me out , and that way I am wife in ,
Out with it boldly : truth loves open dealing .

Tanta est erga te mentis integritas , regina serenissima ,

O , good my lord , no Latin ;
I am not such a truant since my coming 
As not to know the language I have liv'd in :
A strange tongue makes my cause more strange , suspicious ;
Pray , speak in English : here are some will thank you ,
If you speak truth , for their poor mistress' sake :
Believe me , she has had much wrong . Lord Cardinal ,
The willing'st sin I ever yet committed 
May be absolv'd in English .

Noble lady ,
I am sorry my integrity should breed ,
And service to his majesty and you ,
So deep suspicion , where all faith was meant .
We come not by the way of accusation ,
To taint that honour every good tongue blesses ,
Nor to betray you any way to sorrow ,
You have too much , good lady ; but to know 
How you stand minded in the weighty difference 
Between the king and you ; and to deliver ,
Like free and honest men , our just opinions 
And comforts to your cause .

Most honour'd madam ,
My Lord of York , out of his noble nature ,
Zeal and obedience he still bore your Grace ,
Forgetting , like a good man , your late censure 
Both of his truth and him ,which was too far ,
Offers , as I do , in sign of peace ,
His service and his counsel .

To betray me .
My lords , I thank you both for your good wills ;
Ye speak like honest men ,pray God , ye prove so !
But how to make ye suddenly an answer ,
In such a point of weight , so near mine honour ,
More near my life , I fear ,with my weak wit ,
And to such men of gravity and learning ,
In truth , I know not . I was set at work 
Among my maids ; full little , God knows , looking 
Either for such men or such business .
For her sake that I have been ,for I feel 
The last fit of my greatness ,good your Graces 
Let me have time and counsel for my cause :
Alas ! I am a woman , friendless , hopeless .

Madam , you wrong the king's love with these fears :
Your hopes and friends are infinite .

In England 
But little for my profit . Can you think , lords ,
That any Englishman dare give me counsel ?
Or be a known friend , 'gainst his highness' pleasure ,
Though he be grown so desperate to be honest ,
And live a subject ? Nay , forsooth , my friends ,
They that must weigh out my afflictions ,
They that my trust must grow to , live not here :
They are , as all my other comforts , far hence 
In mine own country , lords .

I would your Grace 
Would leave your griefs , and take my counsel .

How , sir ?

Put your main cause into the king's protection ;
He's loving and most gracious : 'twill be much 
Both for your honour better and your cause ;
For if the trial of the law o'ertake ye ,
You'll part away disgrac'd .

He tells you rightly .

Ye tell me what ye wish for both ; my ruin .
Is this your Christian counsel ? out upon ye !
Heaven is above all yet ; there sits a judge 
That no king can corrupt .

Your rage mistakes us .

The more shame for ye ! holy men I thought ye ,
Upon my soul , two reverend cardinal virtues ;
But cardinal sins and hollow hearts I fear ye .
Mend 'em , for shame , my lords . Is this your comfort ?
The cordial that ye bring a wretched lady ,
A woman lost among ye , laugh'd at , scorn'd ?
I will not wish ye half my miseries ,
I have more charity ; but say , I warn'd ye :
Take heed , for heaven's sake , take heed , lest at once 
The burden of my sorrows fall upon ye .

Madam , this is a mere distraction ;
You turn the good we offer into envy .

Ye turn me into nothing : woe upon ye ,
And all such false professors ! Would ye have me ,
If ye have any justice , any pity ;
If ye be anything but churchmen's habits ,
Put my sick cause into his hands that hates me ?
Alas ! he has banish'd me his bed already ,
His love , too long ago ! I am old , my lords ,
And all the fellowship I hold now with him 
Is only my obedience . What can happen 
To me above this wretchedness ? all your studies 
Make me a curse like this .

Your fears are worse .

Have I liv'd thus long let me speak myself ,
Since virtue finds no friends a wife , a true one ?
A woman , I dare say without vain-glory ,
Never yet branded with suspicion ?
Have I with all my full affections 
Still met the king ? lov'd him next heaven ? obey'd him ?
Been , out of fondness , superstitious to him ?
Almost forgot my prayers to content him ?
And am I thus rewarded ? 'tis not well , lords .
Bring me a constant woman to her husband ,
One that ne'er dream'd a joy beyond his pleasure ,
And to that woman , when she has done most ,
Yet will I add an honour , a great patience .

Madam , you wander from the good we aim at .

My lord , I dare not make myself so guilty ,
To give up willingly that noble title 
Your master wed me to : nothing but death 
Shall e'er divorce my dignities .

Pray hear me .

Would I had never trod this English earth ,
Or felt the flatteries that grow upon it !
Ye have angels' faces , but heaven knows your hearts .
What will become of me now , wretched lady ?
I am the most unhappy woman living .


Alas ! poor wenches , where are now your fortunes ?
Shipwrack'd upon a kingdom , where no pity ,
No friends , no hope ; no kindred weep for me ;
Almost no grave allow'd me . Like the lily ,
That once was mistress of the field and flourish'd ,
I'll hang my head and perish .

If your Grace 
Could but be brought to know our ends are honest ,
You'd feel more comfort . Why should we , good lady ,
Upon what cause , wrong you ? alas ! our places ,
The way of our profession is against it :
We are to cure such sorrows , not to sow them .
For goodness' sake , consider what you do ;
How you may hurt yourself , ay , utterly 
Grow from the king's acquaintance , by this carriage .
The hearts of princes kiss obedience ,
So much they love it ; but to stubborn spirits 
They swell , and grow as terrible as storms .
I know you have a gentle , noble temper ,
A soul as even as a calm : pray think us 
Those we profess , peace-makers , friends , and servants .

Madam , you'll find it so . You wrong your virtues 
With these weak women's fears : a noble spirit ,
As yours was put into you , ever casts 
Such doubts , as false coin , from it . The king loves you ;
Beware you lose it not : for us , if you please 
To trust us in your business , we are ready 
To use our utmost studies in your service .

Do what ye will , my lords : and , pray , forgive me 
If I have us'd myself unmannerly .
You know I am a woman , lacking wit 
To make a seemly answer to such persons .
Pray do my service to his majesty :
He has my heart yet ; and shall have my prayers 
While I shall have my life . Come , reverend fathers ,
Bestow your counsels on me : she now begs 
That little thought , when she set footing here ,
She should have bought her dignities so dear .


If you will now unite in your complaints ,
And force them with a constancy , the cardinal 
Cannot stand under them : if you omit 
The offer of this time , I cannot promise 
But that you shall sustain moe new disgraces 
With these you bear already .

I am joyful 
To meet the least occasion that may give me 
Remembrance of my father-in-law , the duke ,
To be reveng'd on him .

Which of the peers 
Have uncontemn'd gone by him , or at least 
Strangely neglected ? when did he regard 
The stamp of nobleness in any person ,
Out of himself ?

My lords , you speak your pleasures :
What he deserves of you and me , I know ;
What we can do to him ,though now the time 
Gives way to us ,I much fear . If you cannot 
Bar his access to the king , never attempt 
Any thing on him , for he hath a witchcraft 
Over the king in's tongue .

O ! fear him not ;
His spell in that is out : the king hath found 
Matter against him that for ever mars 
The honey of his language . No , he's settled ,
Not to come off , in his displeasure .

Sir ,
I should be glad to hear such news as this 
Once every hour .

Believe it , this is true :
In the divorce his contrary proceedings 
Are all unfolded ; wherein he appears 
As I would wish mine enemy .

How came 
His practices to light ?

Most strangely .

O ! how ? how ?

The cardinal's letter to the pope miscarried ,
And came to the eye o' the king ; wherein was read ,
That the cardinal did entreat his holiness 
To stay the judgment o' the divorce ; for if 
It did take place , 'I do ,' quoth he , 'perceive 
My king is tangled in affection to 
A creature of the queen's , Lady Anne Bullen .' 

Has the king this ?

Believe it .

Will this work ?

The king in this perceives him , how he coasts 
And hedges his own way . But in this point 
All his tricks founder , and he brings his physic 
After his patient's death : the king already 
Hath married the fair lady .

Would he had !

May you be happy in your wish , my lord !
For I profess , you have it .

Now all my joy 
Trace the conjunction !

My amen to't !

All men's .

There's order given for her coronation :
Marry , this is yet but young , and may be left 
To some ears unrecounted . But , my lords ,
She is a gallant creature , and complete 
In mind and feature : I persuade me , from her 
Will fall some blessing to this land , which shall 
In it be memoriz'd .

But will the king 
Digest this letter of the cardinal's ?
The Lord forbid !

Marry , amen !

No , no ;
There be moe wasps that buzz about his nose 
Will make this sting the sooner . Cardinal Campeius 
Is stol'n away to Rome ; hath ta'en no leave ;
Has left the cause o' the king unhandled ; and 
Is posted , as the agent of our cardinal ,
To second all his plot . I do assure you 
The king cried Ha ! at this .

Now , God incense him ,
And let him cry Ha ! louder .

But , my lord ,
When returns Cranmer ?

He is return'd in his opinions , which 
Have satisfied the king for his divorce ,
Together with all famous colleges 
Almost in Christendom . Shortly , I believe ,
His second marriage shall be publish'd , and 
Her coronation . Katharine no more 
Shall be call'd queen , but princess dowager ,
And widow to Prince Arthur .

This same Cranmer's 
A worthy fellow , and hath ta'en much pain 
In the king's business .

He has ; and we shall see him 
For it an archbishop .

So I hear .

'Tis so .
The cardinal !


Observe , observe ; he's moody .

The packet , Cromwell ,
Gave't you the king ?

To his own hand , in his bedchamber .

Look'd he o' the inside of the paper ?

Presently 
He did unseal them ; and the first he view'd ,
He did it with a serious mind ; a heed 
Was in his countenance . You he bade 
Attend him here this morning .

Is he ready 
To come abroad ?

I think , by this he is .

Leave me awhile .

It shall be to the Duchess of Alen on ,
The French King's sister ; he shall marry her .
Anne Bullen ! No ; I'll no Anne Bullens for him :
There's more in't than fair visage . Bullen !
No , we'll no Bullens . Speedily I wish 
To hear from Rome . The Marchioness of Pembroke !

He's discontented .

May be he hears the king 
Does whet his anger to him .

Sharp enough ,
Lord , for thy justice !

The late queen's gentlewoman , a knight's daughter ,
To be her mistress' mistress ! the queen's queen !
This candle burns not clear : 'tis I must snuff it ;
Then , out it goes . What though I know her virtuous 
And well deserving ? yet I know her for 
A spleeny Lutheran ; and not wholesome to 
Our cause , that she should lie i' the bosom of 
Our hard-rul'd king . Again , there is sprung up 
A heretic , an arch one , Cranmer ; one 
Hath crawl'd into the favour of the king ,
And is his oracle .

He is vex'd at something .

I would 'twere something that would fret the string ,
The master-cord on's heart !


The king , the king !

What piles of wealth hath he accumulated 
To his own portion ! and what expense by the hour 
Seems to flow from him ! How , i' the name of thrift ,
Does he rake this together ? Now , my lords ,
Saw you the cardinal ?

My lord , we have 
Stood here observing him ; some strange commotion 
Is in his brain : he bites his lip , and starts ;
Stops on a sudden , looks upon the ground ,
Then lays his finger on his temple ; straight 
Springs out into fast gait ; then stops again ,
Strikes his breast hard ; and anon he casts 
His eye against the moon : in most strange postures 
We have seen him set himself .

It may well be :
There is a mutiny in 's mind . This morning 
Papers of state he sent me to peruse ,
As I requir'd ; and wot you what I found 
There , on my conscience , put unwittingly ?
Forsooth , an inventory , thus importing ;
The several parcels of his plate , his treasure ,
Rich stuffs and ornaments of household , which 
I find at such a proud rate that it out-speaks 
Possession of a subject .

It's heaven's will :
Some spirit put this paper in the packet 
To bless your eye withal .

If we did think 
His contemplation were above the earth ,
And fix'd on spiritual object , he should still 
Dwell in his musings : but I am afraid 
His thinkings are below the moon , not worth 
His serious considering .


Heaven forgive me !
Ever God bless your highness !

Good my lord ,
You are full of heavenly stuff , and bear the inventory 
Of your best graces in your mind , the which 
You were now running o'er : you have scarce time 
To steal from spiritual leisure a brief span 
To keep your earthly audit : sure , in that 
I deem you an ill husband , and am glad 
To have you therein my companion .

Sir ,
For holy offices I have a time ; a time 
To think upon the part of business which 
I bear i' the state ; and nature does require 
Her times of preservation , which perforce 
I , her frail son , amongst my brethren mortal ,
Must give my tendance to .

You have said well .

And ever may your highness yoke together ,
As I will lend you cause , my doing well 
With my well saying !

'Tis well said again ;
And 'tis a kind of good deed to say well :
And yet words are no deeds . My father lov'd you :
He said he did ; and with his deed did crown 
His word upon you . Since I had my office ,
I have kept you next my heart ; have not alone 
Employ'd you where high profits might come home ,
But par'd my present havings , to bestow 
My bounties upon you .

What should this mean ?

The Lord increase this business !

Have I not made you 
The prime man of the state ? I pray you , tell me 
If what I now pronounce you have found true ;
And if you may confess it , say withal ,
If you are bound to us or no . What say you ?

My sovereign , I confess your royal graces ,
Shower'd on me daily , have been more than could 
My studied purposes requite ; which went 
Beyond all man's endeavours : my endeavours 
Have ever come too short of my desires ,
Yet fil'd with my abilities . Mine own ends 
Have been mine so , that evermore they pointed 
To the good of your most sacred person and 
The profit of the state . For your great graces 
Heap'd upon me , poor undeserver , I 
Can nothing render but allegiant thanks ,
My prayers to heaven for you , my loyalty ,
Which ever has and ever shall be growing ,
Till death , that winter , kill it .

Fairly answer'd ;
A loyal and obedient subject is 
Therein illustrated ; the honour of it 
Does pay the act of it , as , i' the contrary ,
The foulness is the punishment . I presume 
That as my hand has open'd bounty to you ,
My heart dropp'd love , my power rain'd honour , more 
On you than any ; so your hand and heart ,
Your brain , and every function of your power ,
Should , notwithstanding that your bond of duty ,
As 'twere in love's particular , be more 
To me , your friend , than any .

I do profess ,
That for your highness' good I ever labour'd 
More than mine own ; that am , have , and will be .
Though all the world should crack their duty to you ,
And throw it from their soul ; though perils did 
Abound as thick as thought could make 'em , and 
Appear in forms more horrid , yet my duty ,
As doth a rock against the chiding flood ,
Should the approach of this wild river break ,
And stand unshaken yours .

'Tis nobly spoken .
Take notice , lords , he has a loyal breast ,
For you have seen him open't . Read o'er this ;

And after , this : and then to breakfast with 
What appetite you have .


What should this mean ?
What sudden anger's this ? how have I reap'd it ?
He parted frowning from me , as if ruin 
Leap'd from his eyes : so looks the chafed lion 
Upon the daring huntsman that has gall'd him ;
Then makes him nothing . I must read this paper ;
I fear , the story of his anger . 'Tis so ;
This paper has undone me ! 'Tis the account 
Of all that world of wealth I have drawn together 
For mine own ends ; indeed , to gain the popedom ,
And fee my friends in Rome . O negligence !
Fit for a fool to fall by : what cross devil 
Made me put this main secret in the packet 
I sent the king ? Is there no way to cure this ?
No new device to beat this from his brains ?
I know 'twill stir him strongly ; yet I know 
A way , if it take right , in spite of fortune 
Will bring me off again . What's this ?'To the Pope !' 
The letter , as I live , with all the business 
I writ to's holiness . Nay then , farewell !
I have touch'd the highest point of all my greatness ;
And from that full meridian of my glory ,
I haste now to my setting : I shall fall 
Like a bright exhalation in the evening ,
And no man see me more .


Hear the king's pleasure , cardinal : who commands you 
To render up the great seal presently 
Into our hands ; and to confine yourself 
To Asher-house , my Lord of Winchester's ,
Till you hear further from his highness .

Stay ,
Where's your commission , lord ? words cannot carry 
Authority so weighty .

Who dare cross 'em ,
Bearing the king's will from his mouth expressly ?

Till I find more than will or words to do it ,
I mean your malice , know , officious lords ,
I dare and must deny it . Now I feel 
Of what coarse metal ye are moulded , envy :
How eagerly ye follow my disgraces ,
As if it fed ye ! and how sleek and wanton 
Ye appear in every thing may bring my ruin 
Follow your envious courses , men of malice ;
You have Christian warrant for 'em , and , no doubt ,
In time will find their fit rewards . That seal 
You ask with such a violence , the king 
Mine and your master with his own hand gave me ;
Bade me enjoy it with the place and honours 
During my life ; and to confirm his goodness ,
Tied it by letters-patents : now who'll take it ?

The king , that gave it .

It must be himself then .

Thou art a proud traitor , priest .

Proud lord , thou liest :
Within these forty hours Surrey durst better 
Have burnt that tongue than said so .

Thy ambition ,
Thou scarlet sin , robb'd this bewailing land 
Of noble Buckingham , my father-in-law :
The heads of all thy brother cardinals 
With thee and all thy best parts bound together 
Weigh'd not a hair of his . Plague of your policy !
You sent me deputy for Ireland ,
Far from his succour , from the king , from all 
That might have mercy on the fault thou gav'st him ;
Whilst your great goodness , out of holy pity ,
Absolv'd him with an axe .

This and all else 
This talking lord can lay upon my credit ,
I answer is most false . The duke by law 
Found his deserts : how innocent I was 
From any private malice in his end ,
His noble jury and foul cause can witness .
If I lov'd many words , lord , I should tell you ,
You have as little honesty as honour ,
That in the way of loyalty and truth 
Toward the king , my ever royal master ,
Dare mate a sounder man than Surrey can be ,
And all that love his follies .

By my soul ,
Your long coat , priest , protects you ; thou shouldst feel 
My sword i' the life-blood of thee else . My lords ,
Can ye endure to hear this arrogance ?
And from this fellow ? If we live thus tamely ,
To be thus jaded by a piece of scarlet ,
Farewell nobility ; let his Grace go forward ,
And dare us with his cap like larks .

All goodness 
Is poison to thy stomach .

Yes , that goodness 
Of gleaning all the land's wealth into one ,
Into your own hands , cardinal , by extortion ;
The goodness of your intercepted packets ,
You writ to the pope against the king ; your goodness ,
Since you provoke me , shall be most notorious .
My Lord of Norfolk , as you are truly noble ,
As you respect the common good , the state 
Of our despis'd nobility , our issues ,
Who , if he live , will scarce be gentlemen ,
Produce the grand sum of his sins , the articles 
Collected from his life ; I'll startle you 
Worse than the sacring bell , when the brown wench 
Lay kissing in your arms , Lord Cardinal .

How much , methinks , I could despise this man ,
But that I am bound in charity against it !

Those articles , my lord , are in the king's hand ;
But , thus much , they are foul ones .

So much fairer 
And spotless shall mine innocence arise 
When the king knows my truth .

This cannot save you :
I thank my memory , I yet remember 
Some of these articles ; and out they shall .
Now , if you can blush , and cry 'guilty ,' cardinal ,
You'll show a little honesty .

Speak on , sir ;
I dare your worst objections ; if I blush ,
It is to see a nobleman want manners .

I had rather want those than my head . Have at you !
First , that , without the king's assent or know ledge ,
You wrought to be a legate ; by which power 
You maim'd the jurisdiction of all bishops .

Then , that in all you writ to Rome , or else 
To foreign princes , Ego et Rex meus 
Was still inscrib'd ; in which you brought the king 
To be your servant .

Then , that without the knowledge 
Either of king or council , when you went 
Ambassador to the emperor , you made bold 
To carry into Flanders the great seal .

Item , you sent a large commission 
To Gregory de Cassado , to conclude ,
Without the king's will or the state's allowance ,
A league between his highness and Ferrara .

That , out of mere ambition , you have caus'd 
Your holy hat to be stamp'd on the king's coin .

Then , that you have sent innumerable substance ,
By what means got I leave to your own conscience ,
To furnish Rome , and to prepare the ways 
You have for dignities ; to the mere undoing 
Of all the kingdom . Many more there are ;
Which , since they are of you , and odious ,
I will not taint my mouth with .

O my lord !
Press not a falling man too far ; 'tis virtue :
His faults lie open to the laws ; let them ,
Not you , correct him . My heart weeps to see him 
So little of his great self .

I forgive him .

Lord Cardinal , the king's further pleasure is ,
Because all those things you have done of late ,
By your power legatine , within this kingdom ,
Fall into the compass of a pr munire ,
That therefore such a writ be su'd against you ;
To forfeit all your goods , lands , tenements ,
Chattels , and whatsoever , and to be 
Out of the king's protection . This is my charge .

And so we'll leave you to your meditations 
How to live better . For your stubborn answer 
About the giving back the great seal to us ,
The king shall know it , and , no doubt , shall thank you .
So fare you well , my little good Lord Cardinal .


So farewell to the little good you bear me .
Farewell ! a long farewell , to all my greatness !
This is the state of man : to-day be puts forth 
The tender leaves of hopes ; to-morrow blossoms ,
And bears his blushing honours thick upon him ;
The third day comes a frost , a killing frost ;
And , when he thinks , good easy man , full surely 
His greatness is a-ripening , nips his root ,
And then he falls , as I do . I have ventur'd ,
Like little wanton boys that swim on bladders ,
This many summers in a sea of glory ,
But far beyond my depth : my high-blown pride 
At length broke under me , and now has left me ,
Weary and old with service , to the mercy 
Of a rude stream , that must for ever hide me .
Vain pomp and glory of this world , I hate yo :
I feel my heart new open'd . O ! how wretched 
Is that poor man that hangs on princes' favours !
There is , betwixt that smile we would aspire to ,
That sweet aspect of princes , and their ruin ,
More pangs and fears than wars or women have ;
And when he falls , he falls like Lucifer ,
Never to hope again .

Why , how now , Cromwell !

I have no power to speak , sir .

What ! amaz'd 
At my misfortunes ? can thy spirit wonder 
A great man should decline ? Nay , an you weep ,
I am fall'n indeed .

How does your Grace ?

Why , well ;
Never so truly happy , my good Cromwell .
I know myself now ; and I feel within me 
A peace above all earthly dignities ,
A still and quiet conscience . The king has cur'd me ,
I humbly thank his Grace ; and from these shoulders ,
These ruin'd pillars , out of pity taken 
A load would sink a navy , too much honour :
O ! 'tis a burden , Cromwell , 'tis a burden 
Too heavy for a man that hopes for heaven .

I am glad your Grace has made that right use of it .

I hope I have : I am able now , methinks ,
Out of a fortitude of soul I feel ,
To endure more miseries and greater far 
Than my weak-hearted enemies dare offer .
What news abroad ?

The heaviest and the worst ,
Is your displeasure with the king .

God bless him !

The next is , that Sir Thomas More is chosen 
Lord Chancellor in your place .

That's somewhat sudden :
But he's a learned man . May he continue 
Long in his highness' favour , and do justice 
For truth's sake and his conscience ; that his bones ,
When he has run his course and sleeps in blessings ,
May have a tomb of orphans' tears wept on 'em !
What more ?

That Cranmer is return'd with welcome ,
Install'd Lord Archbishop of Canterbury .

That's news indeed .

Last , that the Lady Anne ,
Whom the king hath in secrecy long married ,
This day was view'd in open , as his queen ,
Going to chapel ; and the voice is now 
Only about her coronation .

There was the weight that pull'd me down . O Cromwell !
The king has gone beyond me : all my glories 
In that one woman I have lost for ever .
No sun shall ever usher forth mine honours ,
Or gild again the noble troops that waited 
Upon my smiles . Go , get thee from me , Cromwell ;
I am a poor fall'n man , unworthy now 
To be thy lord and master : seek the king ;
That sun , I pray , may never set !I have told him 
What , and how true thou art : he will advance thee ;
Some little memory of me will stir him 
I know his noble nature not to let 
Thy hopeful service perish too . Good Cromwell ,
Neglect him not ; make use now , and provide 
For thine own future safety .

O my lord !
Must I then , leave you ? must I needs forego 
So good , so noble , and so true a master ?
Bear witness all that have not hearts of iron ,
With what a sorrow Cromwell leaves his lord .
The king shall have my service ; but my prayers 
For ever and for ever , shall be yours .

Cromwell , I did not think to shed a tear 
In all my miseries ; but thou hast forc'd me ,
Out of thy honest truth , to play the woman .
Let's dry our eyes : and thus far hear me , Cromwell ;
And , when I am forgotten , as I shall be ,
And sleep in dull cold marble , where no mention 
Of me more must be heard of , say , I taught thee ,
Say , Wolsey , that once trod the ways of glory ,
And sounded all the depths and shoals of honour ,
Found thee a way , out of his wrack , to rise in ;
A sure and safe one , though thy master miss'd it .
Mark but my fall , and that that ruin'd me .
Cromwell , I charge thee , fling away ambition :
By that sin fell the angels ; how can man then ,
The image of his Maker , hope to win by't ?
Love thyself last : cherish those hearts that hate thee ;
Corruption wins not more than honesty .
Still in thy right hand carry gentle peace ,
To silence envious tongues : be just , and fear not .
Let all the ends thou aim'st at be thy country's ,
Thy God's , and truth's ; then if thou fall'st , O Cromwell !
Thou fall'st a blessed martyr . Serve the king ;
And ,prithee , lead me in :
There take an inventory of all I have ,
To the last penny ; 'tis the king's : my robe ,
And my integrity to heaven is all 
I dare now call mine own . O Cromwell , Cromwell !
Had I but serv'd my God with half the zeal 
I serv'd my king , he would not in mine age 
Have left me naked to mine enemies .

Good sir , have patience .

So I have . Farewell 
The hopes of court ! my hopes in heaven do dwell .


You're well met once again .

So are you .

You come to take your stand here , and behold 
The Lady Anne pass from her coronation ?

'Tis all my business . At our last encounter 
The Duke of Buckingham came from his trial .

'Tis very true : but that time offer'd sorrow ;
This , general joy .

'Tis well : the citizens ,
I am sure , have shown at full their royal minds ,
As , let 'em have their rights , they are ever forward ,
In celebration of this day with shows ,
Pageants , and sights of honour .

Never greater ;
Nor , I'll assure you , better taken , sir .

May I be bold to ask what that contains ,
That paper in your hand ?

Yes ; 'tis the list 
Of those that claim their offices this day 
By custom of the coronation .
The Duke of Suffolk is the first , and claims 
To be high-steward ; next , the Duke of Norfolk ,
He to be earl marshal : you may read the rest .

I thank you , sir : had I not known those customs ,
I should have been beholding to your paper .
But , I beseech you , what's become of Katharine ,
The princess dowager ? how goes her business ?

That I can tell you too . The Archbishop 
Of Canterbury , accompanied with other 
Learned and reverend fathers of his order ,
Held a late court at Dunstable , six miles off 
From Ampthill , where the princess lay ; to which 
She was often cited by them , but appear'd not :
And , to be short , for not appearance and 
The king's late scruple , by the main assent 
Of all these learned men she was divorc'd ,
And the late marriage made of none effect :
Since which she was remov'd to Kimbolton ,
Where she remains now sick .

Alas ! good lady !

The trumpets sound : stand close , the queen is coming .

A lively flourish of trumpets .


1.  Two Judges .
2  Lord Chancellor , with the purse and mace before him .
3.  Choristers , singing .


4.  Mayor of London , bearing the mace . Then Garter , in his coat of arms , and on his head a gilt copper crown .
5.

6.

7.  A canopy borne by four of the Cinque-ports ; under it , the 

8.  The old 
9.  Certain Ladies or Countesses , with plain circlets of gold without flowers .
They pass over the stage in order and state .


A royal train , believe me . These I know ;
Who's that that bears the sceptre ?

Marquess Dorset :
And that the Earl of Surrey with the rod .

A bold brave gentleman . That should be 
The Duke of Suffolk ?

'Tis the same ; high-steward .

And that my Lord of Norfolk ?

Yes .

Heaven bless thee !
Thou hast the sweetest face I ever look'd on .
Sir , as I have a soul , she is an angel ;
Our king has all the Indies in his arms ,
And more and richer , when he strains that lady :
I cannot blame his conscience .

They that bear 
The cloth of honour over her , are four barons 
Of the Cinque-ports .

Those men are happy ; and so are all are near her .
I take it , she that carries up the train 
Is that old noble lady , Duchess of Norfolk .

It is ; and all the rest are countesses .

Their coronets say so . These are stars indeed ;
And sometimes falling ones .

No more of that .


God save you , sir ! Where have you been broiling ?

Among the crowd i' the Abbey ; where a finger 
Could not be wedg'd in more : I am stifled 
With the mere rankness of their joy .

You saw 
The ceremony ?

That I did .

How was it ?

Well worth the seeing .

Good sir , speak it to us .

As well as I am able . The rich stream 
Of lords and ladies , having brought the queen 
To a prepar'd place in the choir , fell off 
A distance from her ; while her Grace sat down 
To rest awhile , some half an hour or so ,
In a rich chair of state , opposing freely 
The beauty of her person to the people .
Believe me , sir , she is the goodliest woman 
That ever lay by man : which when the people 
Had the full view of , such a noise arose 
As the shrouds make at sea in a stiff tempest ,
As loud , and to as many tunes : hats , cloaks ,
Doublets , I think ,flew up ; and had their faces 
Been loose , this day they had been lost . Such joy 
I never saw before . Great-bellied women ,
That had not half a week to go , like rams 
In the old time of war , would shake the press ,
And make 'em reel before them . No man living 
Could say , 'This is my wife ,' there ; all were woven 
So strangely in one piece .

But , what follow'd ?

At length her Grace rose , and with modest paces 
Came to the altar ; where she kneel'd , and , saint-like ,
Cast her fair eyes to heaven and pray'd devoutly .
Then rose again and bow'd her to the people :
When by the Archbishop of Canterbury 
She had all the royal makings of a queen ;
As holy oil , Edward Confessor's crown ,
The rod , and bird of peace , and all such emblems 
Laid nobly on her : which perform'd , the choir ,
With all the choicest music of the kingdom ,
Together sung Te Deum . So she parted ,
And with the same full state pac'd back again 
To York-place , where the feast is held .

Sir ,
You must no more call it York-place , that's past ;
For , since the cardinal fell , that title's lost :
'Tis now the king's , and call'd Whitehall .

I know it ;
But 'tis so lately alter'd that the old name 
Is fresh about me .

What two reverend bishops 
Were those that went on each side of the queen ?

Stokesly and Gardiner ; the one of Winchester ,
Newly preferr'd from the king's secretary ,
The other , London .

He of Winchester 
Is held no great good lover of the archbishop's ,
The virtuous Cranmer .

All the land knows that :
However , yet there's no great breach ; when it comes ,
Cranmer will find a friend will not shrink from him .

Who may that be , I pray you ?

Thomas Cromwell :
A man in much esteem with the king , and truly 
A worthy friend . The king 
Has made him master o' the jewel house ,
And one , already , of the privy-council .

He will deserve more .

Yes , without all doubt .
Come , gentlemen , ye shall go my way , which 
Is to the court , and there ye shall be my guests :
Something I can command . As I walk thither ,
I'll tell ye more .

You may command us , sir .


How does your Grace ?

O Griffith ! sick to death !
My legs , like loaden branches , bow to the earth ,
Willing to leave their burden . Reach a chair :
So ; now , methinks , I feel a little ease .
Didst thou not tell me , Griffith , as thou ledd'st me ,
That the great child of honour , Cardinal Wolsey ,
Was dead ?

Yes , madam ; but I think your Grace ,
Out of the pain you suffer'd , gave no ear to't .

Prithee , good Griffith , tell me how he died :
If well , he stepp'd before me , happily ,
For my example .

Well , the voice goes , madam :
For after the stout Earl Northumberland 
Arrested him at York , and brought him forward ,
As a man sorely tainted , to his answer ,
He fell sick suddenly , and grew so ill 
He could not sit his mule .

Alas ! poor man .

At last , with easy roads , he came to Leicester ;
Lodg'd in the abbey , where the reverend abbot ,
With all his covent , honourably receiv'd him :
To whom he gave these words : 'O ! father abbot ,
An old man , broken with the storms of state ,
Is come to lay his weary bones among ye ;
Give him a little earth for charity .' 
So went to bed , where eagerly his sickness 
Pursu'd him still ; and three nights after this ,
About the hour of eight ,which he himself 
Foretold should be his last ,full of repentance ,
Continual meditations , tears , and sorrows ,
He gave his honours to the world again ,
His blessed part to heaven , and slept in peace .

So may he rest ; his faults lie gently on him !
Yet thus far , Griffith , give me leave to speak him ,
And yet with charity . He was a man 
Of an unbounded stomach , ever ranking 
Himself with princes ; one , that by suggestion 
Tied all the kingdom ; simony was fair-play ;
His own opinion was his law ; i' the presence 
He would say untruths , and be ever double 
Both in his words and meaning . He was never ,
But where he meant to ruin , pitiful ;
His promises were , as he then was , mighty ;
But his performance , as he is now , nothing :
Of his own body he was ill , and gave 
The clergy ill example .

Noble madam ,
Men's evil manners live in brass ; their virtues 
We write in water . May it please your highness 
To hear me speak his good now ?

Yes , good Griffith ,
I were malicious else .

This cardinal ,
Though from a humble stock , undoubtedly 
Was fashion'd to much honour from his cradle .
He was a scholar , and a ripe and good one ;
Exceeding wise , fair-spoken , and persuading ;
Lofty and sour to them that lov'd him not ;
But , to those men that sought him sweet as summer .
And though he were unsatisfied in getting ,
Which was a sin ,yet in bestowing , madam ,
He was most princely . Ever witness for him 
Those twins of learning that he rais'd in you ,
Ipswich , and Oxford ! one of which fell with him ,
Unwilling to outlive the good that did it ;
The other , though unfinish'd , yet so famous ,
So excellent in art , and still so rising ,
That Christendom shall ever speak his virtue .
His overthrow heap'd happiness upon him ;
For then , and not till then , he felt himself ,
And found the blessedness of being little :
And , to add greater honours to his age 
Than man could give him , he died fearing God .

After my death I wish no other herald ,
No other speaker of my living actions ,
To keep mine honour from corruption ,
But such an honest chronicler as Griffith .
Whom I most hated living , thou hast made me ,
With thy religious truth and modesty ,
Now in his ashes honour . Peace be with him !
Patience , be near me still ; and set me lower :
I have not long to trouble thee . Good Griffith ,
Cause the musicians play me that sad note 
I nam'd my knell , whilst I sit meditating 
On that celestial harmony I go to .


She is asleep : good wench , let's sit down quiet ,
For fear we wake her : softly , gentle Patience .


Spirits of peace , where are ye ? Are ye all gone ,
And leave me here in wretchedness behind ye ?

Madam , we are here .

It is not you I call for :
Saw ye none enter since I slept ?

None , madam .

No ? Saw you not , even now , a blessed troop 
Invite me to a banquet ; whose bright faces 
Cast thousand beams upon me , like the sun ?
They promis'd me eternal happiness ,
And brought me garlands , Griffith , which I feel 
I am not worthy yet to wear : I shall assuredly .

I am most joyful , madam , such good dreams 
Possess your fancy .

Bid the music leave ,
They are harsh and heavy to me .


Do you note 
How much her Grace is alter'd on the sudden ?
How long her face is drawn ? How pale she looks ,
And of an earthy cold ? Mark her eyes !

She is going , wench . Pray , pray .

Heaven comfort her !


An't like your Grace ,

You are a saucy fellow :
Deserve we no more reverence ?

You are to blame ,
Knowing she will not lose her wonted greatness ,
To use so rude behaviour ; go to , kneel .

I humbly do entreat your highness pardon ;
My haste made me unmannerly . There is staying 
A gentleman , sent from the king , to see you .

Admit him entrance , Griffith : but this fellow 
Let me ne'er see again .

If my sight fail not ,
You should be lord ambassador from the emperor ,

My royal nephew , and your name Capucius .

Madam , the same ; your servant .

O my lord !
The times and titles now are alter'd strangely 
With me since first you knew me . But , I pray you ,
What is your pleasure with me ?

Noble lady ,
First , mine own service to your Grace ; the next ,
The king's request that I would visit you ;
Who grieves much for your weakness , and by me 
Sends you his princely commendations ,
And heartily entreats you take good comfort .

O ! my good lord , that comfort comes too late ;
'Tis like a pardon after execution :
That gentle physic , given in time , had cur'd me ;
But now I am past all comforts here but prayers .
How does his highness ?

Madam , in good health .

So may he ever do ! and ever flourish ,
When I shall dwell with worms , and my poor name 
Banish'd the kingdom . Patience , is that letter 
I caus'd you write , yet sent away ?

No , madam .


Sir , I most humbly pray you to deliver 
This to my lord the king .

Most willing , madam .

In which I have commended to his goodness 
The model of our chaste loves , his young daughter :
The dews of heaven fall thick in blessings on her !
Beseeching him to give her virtuous breeding ,
She is young , and of a noble modest nature ,
I hope she will deserve well ,and a little 
To love her for her mother's sake , that lov'd him ,
Heaven knows how dearly . My next poor petition 
Is , that his noble Grace would have some pity 
Upon my wretched women , that so long 
Have follow'd both my fortunes faithfully :
Of which there is not one , I dare avow ,
And now I should not lie ,but will deserve ,
For virtue , and true beauty of the soul ,
For honesty and decent carriage ,
A right good husband , let him be a noble ;
And , sure , those men are happy that shall have 'em .
The last is , for my men : they are the poorest ,
But poverty could never draw 'em from me ;
That they may have their wages duly paid 'em ,
And something over to remember me by :
If heaven had pleas'd to have given me longer life 
And able means , we had not parted thus .
These are the whole contents : and , good my lord ,
By that you love the dearest in this world ,
As you wish Christian peace to souls departed ,
Stand these poor people's friend , and urge the king 
To do me this last right .

By heaven , I will ,
Or let me lose the fashion of a man !

I thank you , honest lord . Remember me 
In all humility unto his highness :
Say his long trouble now is passing 
Out of this world ; tell him , in death I bless'd him ;
For so I will . Mine eyes grow dim . Farewell ,
My lord . Griffith , farewell . Nay , Patience ,
You must not leave me yet : I must to bed ;
Call in more women . When I am dead , good wench ,
Let me be us'd with honour : strew me over 
With maiden flowers , that all the world may know 
I was a chaste wife to my grave : embalm me ,
Then lay me forth : although unqueen'd , yet like 
A queen , and daughter to a king , inter me .
I can no more .


It's one o'clock , boy , is't not ?

It hath struck .

These should be hours for necessities ,
Not for delights ; times to repair our nature 
With comforting repose , and not for us 
To waste these times . Good hour of night , Sir Thomas !
Whither so late ?

Came you from the king , my lord ?

I did , Sir Thomas ; and left him at primero 
With the Duke of Suffolk .

I must to him too ,
Before he go to bed . I'll take my leave .

Not yet , Sir Thomas Lovell . What 's the matter ?
It seems you are in haste : an if there be 
No great offence belongs to't , give your friend 
Some touch of your late business : affairs , that walk 
As they say spirits do at midnight , have 
In them a wilder nature than the business 
That seeks dispatch by day .

My lord , I love you ,
And durst commend a secret to your ear 
Much weightier than this work . The queen's in labour ,
They say , in great extremity ; and fear'd 
She'll with the labour end .

The fruit she goes with 
I pray for heartily , that it may find 
Good time , and live : but for the stock , Sir Thomas ,
I wish it grubb'd up now .

Methinks I could 
Cry the amen ; and yet my conscience says 
She's a good creature , and , sweet lady , does 
Deserve our better wishes .

But , sir , sir ,
Hear me , Sir Thomas : you're a gentleman 
Of mine own way ; I know you wise , religious ;
And , let me tell you , it will ne'er be well ,
'Twill not , Sir Thomas Lovell , take 't of me ,
Till Cranmer , Cromwell , her two hands , and she ,
Sleep in their graves .

Now , sir , you speak of two 
The most remark'd i' the kingdom . As for Cromwell ,
Beside that of the jewel-house , is made master 
O' the rolls , and the king's secretary ; further , sir ,
Stands in the gap and trade of moe preferments ,
With which the time will load him . The archbishop 
Is the king's hand and tongue ; and who dare speak 
One syllable against him ?

Yes , yes , Sir Thomas ,
There are that dare ; and I myself have ventur'd 
To speak my mind of him : and indeed this day ,
Sir ,I may tell it you ,I think I have 
Incens'd the lords o' the council that he is 
For so I know he is , they know he is 
A most arch heretic , a pestilence 
That does infect the land : with which they mov'd 
Have broken with the king ; who hath so far 
Given ear to our complaint ,of his great grace 
And princely care , foreseeing those fell mischiefs 
Our reasons laid before him ,hath commanded 
To-morrow morning to the council-board 
He be convented . He's a rank weed , Sir Thomas ,
And we must root him out . From your affairs 
I hinder you too long : good-night , Sir Thomas !

Many good-nights , my lord . I rest your servant .

Charles , I will play no more to-night ;
My mind's not on't ; you are too hard for me .

Sir , I did never win of you before .

But little , Charles ;
Nor shall not when my fancy's on my play .
Now , Lovell , from the queen what is the news ?

I could not personally deliver to her 
What you commanded me , but by her woman 
I sent your message ; who return'd her thanks 
In the great'st humbleness , and desir'd your highness 
Most heartily to pray for her .

What sayst thou , ha ?
To pray for her ? what ! is she crying out ?

So said her woman ; and that her sufferance made 
Almost each pang a death .

Alas ! good lady .

God safely quit her of her burden , and 
With gentle travail , to the gladding of 
Your highness with an heir !

'Tis midnight , Charles ;
Prithee , to bed ; and in thy prayers remember 
The estate of my poor queen . Leave me alone ;
For I must think of that which company 
Would not be friendly to .

I wish your highness 
A quiet night ; and my good mistress will 
Remember in my prayers .

Charles , good-night .


Well , Sir , what follows ?

Sir , I have brought my lord the archbishop ,
As you commanded me .

Ha ! Canterbury ?

Ay , my good lord .

'Tis true : where is he , Denny ?

He attends your highness' pleasure .

Bring him to us .


This is about that which the bishop spake :
I am happily come hither .


Avoid the gallery .

Ha ! I have said . Begone .
What !


I am fearful . Wherefore frowns he thus ?
'Tis his aspect of terror : all's not well .

How now , my lord ! You do desire to know 
Wherefore I sent for you .

It is my duty 
To attend your highness' pleasure .

Pray you , arise ,
My good and gracious Lord of Canterbury .
Come , you and I must walk a turn together ;
I have news to tell you : come , come , give me your hand .
Ah ! my good lord , I grieve at what I speak ,
And am right sorry to repeat what follows .
I have , and most unwillingly , of late 
Heard many grievous , I do say , my lord ,
Grievous complaints of you ; which , being consider'd ,
Have mov'd us and our council , that you shall 
This morning come before us ; where , I know ,
You cannot with such freedom purge yourself ,
But that , till further trial in those charges 
Which will require your answer , you must take 
Your patience to you , and be well contented 
To make your house our Tower : you a brother of us ,
It fits we thus proceed , or else no witness 
Would come against you .

I humbly thank your highness ;
And am right glad to catch this good occasion 
Most throughly to be winnow'd , where my chaff 
And corn shall fly asunder ; for I know 
There's none stands under more calumnious tongues 
Than I myself , poor man .

Stand up , good Canterbury :
Thy truth and thy integrity is rooted 
In us , thy friend : give me thy hand , stand up :
Prithee , let's walk . Now , by my holidame ,
What manner of man are you ? My lord , I look'd 
You would have given me your petition , that 
I should have ta'en some pains to bring together 
Yourself and your accusers ; and to have heard you ,
Without indurance , further .

Most dread liege ,
The good I stand on is my truth and honesty :
If they shall fail , I , with mine enemies ,
Will triumph o'er my person ; which I weigh not ,
Being of those virtues vacant . I fear nothing 
What can be said against me .

Know you not 
How your state stands i' the world , with the whole world ?
Your enemies are many , and not small ; their practices 
Must bear the same proportion ; and not ever 
The justice and the truth o' the question carries 
The due o' the verdict with it . At what ease 
Might corrupt minds procure knaves as corrupt 
To swear against you ? such things have been done .
You are potently oppos'd , and with a malice 
Of as great size . Ween you of better luck ,
I mean in perjur'd witness , than your master ,
Whose minister you are , whiles here he liv'd 
Upon this naughty earth ? Go to , go to ;
You take a precipice for no leap of danger ,
And woo your own destruction .

God and your majesty 
Protect mine innocence ! or I fall into 
The trap is laid for me !

Be of good cheer ;
They shall no more prevail than we give way to .
Keep comfort to you ; and this morning see 
You do appear before them . If they shall chance ,
In charging you with matters , to commit you ,
The best persuasions to the contrary 
Fail not to use , and with what vehemency 
The occasion shall instruct you : if entreaties 
Will render you no remedy , this ring 
Deliver them , and your appeal to us 
There make before them . Look ! the good man weeps ;
He's honest , on mine honour . God's blest mother !
I swear he is true-hearted ; and a soul 
None better in my kingdom . Get you gone ,
And do as I have bid you .

He has strangled 
His language in his tears .


Come back : what mean you ?

I'll not come back ; the tidings that I bring 
Will make my boldness manners . Now , good angels 
Fly o'er thy royal head , and shade thy person 
Under their blessed wings !

Now , by thy looks 
I guess thy message . Is the queen deliver'd ?
Say , ay ; and of a boy .

Ay , ay , my liege ;
And of a lovely boy : the God of heaven 
Both now and ever bless her ! 'tis a girl ,
Promises boys hereafter . Sir , your queen 
Desires your visitation , and to be 
Acquainted with this stranger : 'tis as like you 
As cherry is to cherry .

Lovell !


Sir !

Give her a hundred marks . I'll to the queen .


A hundred marks ! By this light , I'll ha' more .
An ordinary groom is for such payment :
I will have more , or scold it out of him .
Said I for this the girl was like to him ?
I will have more , or else unsay't ; and now ,
While it is hot , I'll put it to the issue .


I hope I am not too late ; and yet the gentleman ,
That was sent to me from the council , pray'd me 
To make great haste . All fast ? what means this ? Ho !
Who waits there ?

Sure , you know me ?

Yes , my lord ;
But yet I cannot help you .

Why ?

Your Grace must wait till you be call'd for .


So .

This is a piece of malice . I am glad 
I came this way so happily : the king 
Shall understand it presently .

'Tis Butts ,
The king's physician . As he past along ,
How earnestly he cast his eyes upon me .
Pray heaven he sound not my disgrace ! For certain ,
This is of purpose laid by some that hate me ,
God turn their hearts ! I never sought their malice ,
To quench mine honour : they would shame to make me 
Wait else at door , a fellow-counsellor ,
'Mong boys , grooms , and lackeys . But their pleasures 
Must be fulfill'd , and I attend with patience .


I'll show your Grace the strangest sight ,

What's that , Butts ?

I think your highness saw this many a day .

Body o' me , where is it ?

There , my lord ,
The high promotion of his Grace of Canterbury ;
Who holds his state at door , 'mongst pursuivants ,
Pages , and footboys .

Ha ! 'Tis he , indeed :
Is this the honour they do one another ?
'Tis well there's one above 'em yet . I had thought 
They had parted so much honesty among 'em ,
At least , good manners ,as not thus to suffer 
A man of his place , and so near our favour ,
To dance attendance on their lordships' pleasures ,
And at the door too , like a post with packets .
By holy Mary , Butts , there's knavery :
Let 'em alone , and draw the curtain close ;
We shall hear more anon .


Speak to the business , Master secretary :
Why are we met in council ?

Please your honours ,
The chief cause concerns his Grace of Canterbury .

Has he had knowledge of it ?

Yes .

Who waits there ?

Without , my noble lords ?

Yes .

My lord archbishop :
And has done half-an-hour , to know your pleasures .

Let him come in .

Your Grace may enter now .


My good lord archbishop , I'm very sorry 
To sit here at this present and behold 
That chair stand empty : but we all are men ,
In our own natures frail , and capable 
Of our flesh ; few are angels : out of which frailty 
And want of wisdom , you , that best should teach us ,
Have misdemean'd yourself , and not a little ,
Toward the king first , then his laws , in filling 
The whole realm , by your teaching and your chaplains ,
For so we are inform'd ,with new opinions ,
Divers and dangerous ; which are heresies ,
And , not reform'd , may prove pernicious .

Which reformation must be sudden too ,
My noble lords ; for those that tame wild horses 
Pace 'em not in their hands to make 'em gentle ,
But stop their mouths with stubborn bits , and spur 'em ,
Till they obey the manage . If we suffer 
Out of our easiness and childish pity 
To one man's honour this contagious sickness ,
Farewell all physic : and what follows then ?
Commotions , uproars , with a general taint 
Of the whole state : as , of late days , our neighbours ,
The upper Germany , can dearly witness ,
Yet freshly pitied in our memories .

My good lords , hitherto in all the progress 
Both of my life and office , I have labour'd ,
And with no little study , that my teaching 
And the strong course of my authority 
Might go one way , and safely ; and the end 
Was ever , to do well : nor is there living ,
I speak it with a single heart , my lords ,
A man that more detests , more stirs against ,
Both in his private conscience and his place ,
Defacers of a public peace , than I do .
Pray heaven the king may never find a heart 
With less allegiance in it ! Men , that make 
Envy and crooked malice nourishment 
Dare bite the best . I do beseech your lordships 
That , in this case of justice , my accusers ,
Be what they will , may stand forth face to face ,
And freely urge against me .

Nay , my lord ,
That cannot be : you are a counsellor ,
And by that virtue no man dare accuse you .

My lord , because we have business of more moment ,
We will be short with you . 'Tis his highness' pleasure ,
And our consent , for better trial of you ,
From hence you be committed to the Tower ;
Where , being but a private man again ,
You shall know many dare accuse you boldly ,
More than , I fear , you are provided for .

Ah ! my good Lord of Winchester , I thank you ;
You are always my good friend : if your will pass ,
I shall both find your lordship judge and juror ,
You are so merciful . I see your end ;
'Tis my undoing : love and meekness , lord ,
Become a churchman better than ambition :
Win straying souls with modesty again ,
Cast none away . That I shall clear myself ,
Lay all the weight ye can upon my patience ,
I make as little doubt , as you do conscience ,
In doing daily wrongs . I could say more ,
But reverence to your calling makes me modest .

My lord , my lord , you are a sectary ;
That's the plain truth : your painted gloss discovers ,
To men that understand you , words and weakness .

My Lord of Winchester , you are a little ,
By your good favour , too sharp ; men so noble ,
However faulty , yet should find respect 
For what they have been : 'tis a cruelty 
To load a falling man .

Good Master secretary ,
I cry your honour mercy , you may , worst 
Of all this table , say so .

Why , my lord ?

Do not I know you for a favourer 
Of this new sect ? ye are not sound .

Not sound ?

Not sound , I say .

Would you were half so honest !
Men's prayers then would seek you , not their fears .

I shall remember this bold language .

Do .
Remember your bold life too .

This is too much ;
Forbear , for shame , my lords .

I have done .

And I .

Then thus for you , my lord : it stands agreed ,
I take it , by all voices , that forthwith 
You be convey'd to the Tower a prisoner ;
There to remain till the king's further pleasure 
Be known unto us . Are you all agreed , lords ?

We are .

Is there no other way of mercy ,
But I must needs to the Tower , my lords ?

What other 
Would you expect ? You are strangely troublesome .
Let some o' the guard be ready there .


For me ?
Must I go like a traitor thither ?

Receive him ,
And see him safe i' the Tower .

Stay , good my lords ;
I have a little yet to say . Look there , my lords ;
By virtue of that ring I take my cause 
Out of the gripes of cruel men , and give it 
To a most noble judge , the king my master .

This is the king's ring .

'Tis no counterfeit .

'Tis the right ring , by heaven ! I told ye all ,
When we first put this dangerous stone a-rolling ,
'Twould fall upon ourselves .

Do you think , my lords ,
The king will suffer but the little finger 
Of this man to be vex'd ?

'Tis now too certain :
How much more is his life in value with him ?
Would I were fairly out on't .

My mind gave me ,
In seeking tales and informations 
Against this man whose honesty the devil 
And his disciples only envy at 
Ye blew the fire that burns ye : now have at ye !


Dread sovereign , how much are we bound to heaven 
In daily thanks , that gave us such a prince ;
Not only good and wise , but most religious :
One that in all obedience makes the Church 
The chief aim of his honour ; and , to strengthen 
That holy duty , out of dear respect ,
His royal self in judgment comes to hear 
The cause betwixt her and this great offender .

You were ever good at sudden commendations ,
Bishop of Winchester ; but know , I come not 
To hear such flattery now , and in my presence ;
They are too thin and bare to hide offences .
To me you cannot reach ; you play the spaniel ,
And think with wagging of your tongue to win me ;
But , whatsoe'er thou tak'st me for , I'm sure 
Thou hast a cruel nature and a bloody .


Good man , sit down . Now let me see the proudest 
He , that dares most , but wag his finger at thee :
By all that's holy , he had better starve 
Than but once think this place becomes thee not .

May it please your Grace ,

No , sir , it does not please me .
I had thought I had had men of some understanding 
And wisdom of my council ; but I find none .
Was it discretion , lords , to let this man ,
This good man ,few of you deserve that title ,
This honest man , wait like a lousy footboy 
At chamber-door ? and one as great as you are ?
Why , what a shame was this ! Did my commission 
Bid ye so far forget yourselves ? I gave ye 
Power as he was a counsellor to try him ,
Not as a groom . There's some of ye , I see ,
More out of malice than integrity ,
Would try him to the utmost , had ye mean ;
Which ye shall never have while I live .

Thus far ,
My most dread sov'reign , may it like your Grace 
To let my tongue excuse all . What was purpos'd 
Concerning his imprisonment , was rather 
If there be faith in men meant for his trial 
And fair purgation to the world , than malice ,
I'm sure , in me .

Well , well , my lords , respect him ;
Take him , and use him well ; he's worthy of it .
I will say thus much for him , if a prince 
May be beholding to a subject , I 
Am , for his love and service , so to him .
Make me no more ado , but all embrace him :
Be friends , for shame , my lords ! My Lord of Canterbury ,
I have a suit which you must not deny me ;
That is , a fair young maid that yet wants baptism ,
You must be godfather , and answer for her .

The greatest monarch now alive may glory 
In such an honour : how may I deserve it ,
That am a poor and humble subject to you ?

Come , come , my lord , you'd spare your spoons : you shall have two noble partners with you ; the old Duchess of Norfolk , and Lady Marquess Dorset : will these please you ?
Once more , my Lord of Winchester , I charge you ,
Embrace and love this man .

With a true heart 
And brother-love I do it .

And let heaven 
Witness , how dear I hold this confirmation .

Good man ! those joyful tears show thy true heart :
The common voice , I see , is verified 
Of thee , which says thus , 'Do my Lord of Canterbury 
A shrewd turn , and he is your friend for ever .' 
Come , lords , we trifle time away ; I long 
To have this young one made a Christian .
As I have made ye one , lords , one remain ;
So I grow stronger , you more honour gain .


You'll leave your noise anon , ye rascals .
Do you take the court for Paris-garden ? ye rude slaves , leave your gaping .


Good Master porter , I belong to the larder .

Belong to the gallows , and be hanged , you rogue ! Is this a place to roar in ? Fetch me a dozen crab-tree staves , and strong ones : these are but switches to 'em . I'll scratch your heads : you must be seeing christenings ! Do you look for ale and cakes here , you rude rascals ?

Pray , sir , be patient : 'tis as much impossible 
Unless we sweep 'em from the door with cannons 
To scatter 'em , as 'tis to make 'em sleep 
On May-day morning ; which will never be .
We may as well push against Paul's as stir 'em .

How got they in , and be hang'd ?

Alas , I know not ; how gets the tide in ?
As much as one sound cudgel of four foot 
You see the poor remainder could distribute ,
I made no spare , sir .

You did nothing , sir .

I am not Samson , nor Sir Guy , nor Colbrand ,
To mow 'em down before me ; but if I spar'd any 
That had a head to hit , either young or old ,
He or she , cuckold or cuckold-maker ,
Let me ne'er hope to see a chine again ;
And that I would not for a cow , God save her !


Do you hear , Master porter ?

I shall be with you presently , good 
Master puppy . Keep the door close , sirrah .

What would you have me do ?

What should you do , but knock 'em down by the dozens ? Is this Moorfields to muster in ? or have we some strange Indian with the great tool come to court , the women so besiege us ? Bless me , what a fry of fornication is at door ! On my Christian conscience , this one christening will beget a thousand : here will be father , godfather , and all together .

The spoons will be the bigger , sir . There is a fellow somewhat near the door , he should be a brazier by his face , for , o' my conscience , twenty of the dog days now reign in's nose : all that stand about him are under the line , they need no other penance . That fire-drake did I hit three times on the head , and three times was his nose discharged against me : he stands there , like a mortar-piece , to blow us . There was a haberdasher's wife of small wit near him , that railed upon me till her pinked porringer fell off her head , for kindling such a combustion in the state . I missed the meteor once , and hit that woman , who cried out , 'Clubs !' when I might see from far some forty truncheoners draw to her succour , which were the hope o' the Strand , where she was quartered . They fell on ; I made good my place ; at length they came to the broomstaff to me ; I defied 'em still ; when suddenly a file of boys behind 'em , loose shot , delivered such a shower of pebbles , that I was fain to draw mine honour in , and let 'em win the work . The devil was amongst 'em , I think , surely .

These are the youths that thunder at a playhouse , and fight for bitten apples ; that no audience , but the Tribulation of Tower-hill , or the Limbs of Limehouse , their dear brothers , are able to endure . I have some of 'em in Limbo Patrum , and there they are like to dance these three days ; besides the running banquet of two beadles , that is to come .


Mercy o' me , what a multitude are here !
They grow still too , from all parts they are coming ,
As if we kept a fair here ! Where are these porters ,
These lazy knaves ? Ye have made a fine hand , fellows :
There's a trim rabble let in . Are all these 
Your faithful friends o' the suburbs ? We shall have 
Great store of room , no doubt , left for the ladies ,
When they pass back from the christening .

An't please your honour ,
We are but men ; and what so many may do ,
Not being torn a-pieces , we have done :
An army cannot rule 'em .

As I live ,
If the king blame me for't , I'll lay ye all 
By the heels , and suddenly ; and on your heads 
Clap round fines for neglect : ye're lazy knaves ;
And here ye lie baiting of bombards , when 
Ye should do service . Hark ! the trumpets sound ;
They're come already from the christening .
Go , break among the press , and find a way out 
To let the troop pass fairly , or I'll find 
A Marshalsea shall hold ye play these two months .

Make way there for the princess .

You great fellow ,
Stand close up , or I'll make your head ache .

You i' the camlet , get up o' the rail :
I'll pick you o'er the pales else .

Heaven , from thy endless goodness , send prosperous life , long , and ever happy , to the high and mighty Princess of England , Elizabeth !


And to your royal Grace , and the good queen ,
My noble partners , and myself , thus pray :
All comfort , joy , in this most gracious lady ,
Heaven ever laid up to make parents happy ,
May hourly fall upon ye !

Thank you , good lord archbishop :
What is her name ?

Elizabeth .

Stand up , lord .

With this kiss take my blessing ; God protect thee !
Into whose hand I give thy life .

Amen .

My noble gossips , ye have been too prodigal :
I thank ye heartily : so shall this lady 
When she has so much English .

Let me speak , sir ,
For heaven now bids me ; and the words I utter 
Let none think flattery , for they'll find 'em truth .
This royal infant ,heaven still move about her !
Though in her cradle , yet now promises 
Upon this land a thousand thousand blessings ,
Which time shall bring to ripeness : she shall be 
But few now living can behold that goodness 
A pattern to all princes living with her ,
And all that shall succeed : Saba was never 
More covetous of wisdom and fair virtue 
Than this pure soul shall be : all princely graces ,
That mould up such a mighty piece as this is ,
With all the virtues that attend the good ,
Shall still be doubled on her ; truth shall nurse her ;
Holy and heavenly thoughts still counsel her ;
She shall be lov'd and fear'd ; her own shall bless her ;
Her foes shake like a field of beaten corn ,
And hang their heads with sorrow ; good grows with her .
In her days every man shall eat in safety 
Under his own vine what he plants ; and sing 
The merry songs of peace to all his neighbours .
God shall be truly known ; and those about her 
From her shall read the perfect ways of honour ,
And by those claim their greatness , not by blood .
Nor shall this peace sleep with her ; but as when 
The bird of wonder dies , the maiden ph nix ,
Her ashes new-create another heir 
As great in admiration as herself ,
So shall she leave her blessedness to one ,
When heaven shall call her from this cloud of darkness ,
Who , from the sacred ashes of her honour ,
Shall star-like rise , as great in fame as she was ,
And so stand fix'd . Peace , plenty , love , truth , terror ,
That were the servants to this chosen infant ,
Shall then be his , and like a vine grow to him :
Wherever the bright sun of heaven shall shine ,
His honour and the greatness of his name 
Shall be , and make new nations ; he shall flourish ,
And , like a mountain cedar , reach his branches 
To all the plains about him ; our children's children 
Shall see this , and bless heaven .

Thou speakest wonders .

She shall be , to the happiness of England ,
An aged princess ; many days shall see her ,
And yet no day without a deed to crown it .
Would I had known no more ! but she must die ,
She must , the saints must have her , yet a virgin ;
A most unspotted lily shall she pass 
To the ground , and all the world shall mourn her .

O lord archbishop !
Thou hast made me now a man : never , before 
This happy child , did I get any thing .
This oracle of comfort has so pleas'd me ,
That when I am in heaven , I shall desire 
To see what this child does , and praise my Maker .
I thank ye all . To you , my good Lord Mayor ,
And your good brethren , I am much beholding ;
I have receiv'd much honour by your presence ,
And ye shall find me thankful . Lead the way , lords :
Ye must all see the queen , and she must thank ye ;
She will be sick else . This day , no man think 
He has business at his house ; for all shall stay :
This little one shall make it holiday .


'Tis ten to one , this play can never please 
All that are here : some come to take their ease 
And sleep an act or two ; but those , we fear ,
We've frighted with our trumpets ; so , 'tis clear 
They'll say 'tis naught : others , to hear the city 
Abus'd extremely , and to cry , 'That's witty !' 
Which we have not done neither : that , I fear ,
All the expected good we're like to hear 
For this play at this time , is only in 
The merciful construction of good women ;
For such a one we show'd 'em : if they smile ,
And say 'twill do , I know , within a while 
All the best men are ours ; for 'tis ill hap 
If they hold when their ladies bid 'em clap .