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Enter GLOUCESTER , and EDGAR disguised in peasant clothing
Enter GLOUCESTER , and EDGAR disguised in peasant clothing

GLOUCESTER

When shall we come to th' top of that same hill?

GLOUCESTER

When shall we come to th' top of that same hill?

EDGAR

You do climb up it now. Look how we labor.

EDGAR

You do climb up it now. Look how we labor.

GLOUCESTER

Methinks the ground is even.

GLOUCESTER

Methinks the ground is even.

EDGAR

     Horrible steep.
Hark, do you hear the sea?

EDGAR

     Horrible steep.
Hark, do you hear the sea?

GLOUCESTER

   No, truly.

GLOUCESTER

   No, truly.

EDGAR

5 Why then, your other senses grow imperfect
By your eyes' anguish.

EDGAR

Why then, your other senses grow imperfect
By your eyes' anguish.

GLOUCESTER

   So may it be indeed.
Methinks thy voice is altered, and thou speak’st
In better phrase and matter than thou didst.

GLOUCESTER

   So may it be indeed.
Methinks thy voice is altered, and thou speak’st
In better phrase and matter than thou didst.

EDGAR

You’re much deceived. In nothing am I changed
10 But in my garments.

EDGAR

You’re much deceived. In nothing am I changed
But in my garments.

GLOUCESTER

   Methinks you’re better spoken.

GLOUCESTER

   Methinks you’re better spoken.

EDGAR

Come on, sir. Here’s the place. Stand still. How fearful
And dizzy ’tis to cast one’s eyes so low!
The crows and choughs that wing the midway air
Show scarce so gross as beetles. Halfway down
15 Hangs one that gathers samphire—dreadful trade!
Methinks he seems no bigger than his head.
The fishermen that walk upon the beach
Appear like mice.

EDGAR

Come on, sir. Here’s the place. Stand still. How fearful
And dizzy ’tis to cast one’s eyes so low!
The crows and choughs that wing the midway air
Show scarce so gross as beetles. Halfway down
Hangs one that gathers samphire—dreadful trade!
Methinks he seems no bigger than his head.
The fishermen that walk upon the beach
Appear like mice.
And yon tall anchoring bark,
Diminished to her cock, her cock a buoy
20 Almost too small for sight. The murmuring surge
That on th' unnumbered idle pebbles chafes
Cannot be heard so high. I’ll look no more
Lest my brain turn and the deficient sight
Topple down headlong.
And yon tall anchoring bark,
Diminished to her cock, her cock a buoy
Almost too small for sight. The murmuring surge
That on th' unnumbered idle pebbles chafes
Cannot be heard so high. I’ll look no more
Lest my brain turn and the deficient sight
Topple down headlong.

GLOUCESTER

25 Set me where you stand.

GLOUCESTER

Set me where you stand.

EDGAR

Give me your hand. You are now within a foot
Of th' extreme verge. For all beneath the moon
Would I not leap upright.

EDGAR

Give me your hand. You are now within a foot
Of th' extreme verge. For all beneath the moon
Would I not leap upright.

GLOUCESTER

   Let go my hand.
(gives EDGAR another purse)
30 Here, friend, ’s another purse, in it a jewel
Well worth a poor man’s taking. Fairies and gods
Prosper it with thee! Go thou farther off.
Bid me farewell, and let me hear thee going.

GLOUCESTER

   Let go my hand.
(gives EDGAR another purse)
Here, friend, ’s another purse, in it a jewel
Well worth a poor man’s taking. Fairies and gods
Prosper it with thee! Go thou farther off.
Bid me farewell, and let me hear thee going.

EDGAR

Now fare you well, good sir.

EDGAR

Now fare you well, good sir.

GLOUCESTER

   With all my heart.

GLOUCESTER

   With all my heart.
EDGAR moves aside
EDGAR moves aside

EDGAR

(aside) Why I do trifle thus with his despair
Is done to cure it.

EDGAR

(aside) Why I do trifle thus with his despair
Is done to cure it.

GLOUCESTER

   O you mighty gods, (kneels)
This world I do renounce, and in your sights
Shake patiently my great affliction off.
If I could bear it longer and not fall
40 To quarrel with your great opposeless wills,
My snuff and loathèd part of nature should
Burn itself out. If Edgar live, O, bless him!—
Now, fellow, fare thee well. (falls)

GLOUCESTER

   O you mighty gods, (kneels)
This world I do renounce, and in your sights
Shake patiently my great affliction off.
If I could bear it longer and not fall
To quarrel with your great opposeless wills,
My snuff and loathèd part of nature should
Burn itself out. If Edgar live, O, bless him!—
Now, fellow, fare thee well. (falls)

EDGAR

   Gone, sir. Farewell.
(aside) And yet I know not how conceit may rob
45 The treasury of life when life itself
Yields to the theft. Had he been where he thought,
By this had thought been past. Alive or dead?—
Ho you, sir, friend! Hear you, sir? Speak.—
Thus might he pass indeed. Yet he revives.—
50 What are you, sir?

EDGAR

   Gone, sir. Farewell.
(aside) And yet I know not how conceit may rob
The treasury of life when life itself
Yields to the theft. Had he been where he thought,
By this had thought been past. Alive or dead?—
Ho you, sir, friend! Hear you, sir? Speak.—
Thus might he pass indeed. Yet he revives.—
What are you, sir?

GLOUCESTER

   Away, and let me die.

GLOUCESTER

   Away, and let me die.

EDGAR

Hadst thou been aught but gossamer, feathers, air,
So many fathom down precipitating,
Thou’dst shivered like an egg. But thou dost breathe,
Hast heavy substance, bleed’st not, speak’st, art sound.
55 Ten masts at each make not the altitude
Which thou hast perpendicularly fell.
Thy life’s a miracle. Speak yet again.

EDGAR

Hadst thou been aught but gossamer, feathers, air,
So many fathom down precipitating,
Thou’dst shivered like an egg. But thou dost breathe,
Hast heavy substance, bleed’st not, speak’st, art sound.
Ten masts at each make not the altitude
Which thou hast perpendicularly fell.
Thy life’s a miracle. Speak yet again.

GLOUCESTER

But have I fall'n, or no?

GLOUCESTER

But have I fall'n, or no?

EDGAR

From the dread summit of this chalky bourn.
60 Look up a-height. The shrill-gorged lark so far
Cannot be seen or heard. Do but look up.

EDGAR

From the dread summit of this chalky bourn.
Look up a-height. The shrill-gorged lark so far
Cannot be seen or heard. Do but look up.

GLOUCESTER

Alack, I have no eyes.
Is wretchedness deprived that benefit,
To end itself by death? 'Twas yet some comfort
65 When misery could beguile the tyrant’s rage
And frustrate his proud will.

GLOUCESTER

Alack, I have no eyes.
Is wretchedness deprived that benefit,
To end itself by death? 'Twas yet some comfort
When misery could beguile the tyrant’s rage
And frustrate his proud will.

EDGAR

   Give me your arm.
Up so. How is ’t? Feel you your legs? You stand.

EDGAR

   Give me your arm.
Up so. How is ’t? Feel you your legs? You stand.

GLOUCESTER

Too well, too well.

GLOUCESTER

Too well, too well.

EDGAR

   This is above all strangeness.
Upon the crown o' th' cliff, what thing was that
70 Which parted from you?

EDGAR

   This is above all strangeness.
Upon the crown o' th' cliff, what thing was that
Which parted from you?

GLOUCESTER

   A poor unfortunate beggar.

GLOUCESTER

   A poor unfortunate beggar.

EDGAR

As I stood here below, methought his eyes
Were two full moons. He had a thousand noses,
Horns whelked and waved like the enragèd sea.
It was some fiend. Therefore, thou happy father,
75 Think that the clearest gods, who make them honors
Of men’s impossibilities, have preserved thee.

EDGAR

As I stood here below, methought his eyes
Were two full moons. He had a thousand noses,
Horns whelked and waved like the enragèd sea.
It was some fiend. Therefore, thou happy father,
Think that the clearest gods, who make them honors
Of men’s impossibilities, have preserved thee.

GLOUCESTER

I do remember now. Henceforth I’ll bear
Affliction till it do cry out itself,
“Enough, enough,” and die. That thing you speak of,
80 I took it for a man. Often ’twould say,
“The fiend, the fiend!” He led me to that place.

GLOUCESTER

I do remember now. Henceforth I’ll bear
Affliction till it do cry out itself,
“Enough, enough,” and die. That thing you speak of,
I took it for a man. Often ’twould say,
“The fiend, the fiend!” He led me to that place.

EDGAR

Bear free and patient thoughts.

EDGAR

Bear free and patient thoughts.
Enter LEAR , mad
Enter LEAR , mad
     But who comes here?
The safer sense will ne'er accommodate
His master thus.
     But who comes here?
The safer sense will ne'er accommodate
His master thus.

LEAR

85 No, they cannot touch me for coining. I am the king himself.

LEAR

No, they cannot touch me for coining. I am the king himself.

EDGAR

(aside) O thou side-piercing sight!

EDGAR

(aside) O thou side-piercing sight!

LEAR

Nature’s above art in that respect. There’s your press- money. That fellow handles his bow like a crowkeeper. Draw me a clothier’s yard. Look, look, a mouse! Peace,

LEAR

Nature’s above art in that respect. There’s your press- money. That fellow handles his bow like a crowkeeper. Draw me a clothier’s yard. Look, look, a mouse! Peace,
peace, this piece of toasted cheese will do ’t. There’s my gauntlet. I’ll prove it on a giant. Bring up the brown bills. O, well flown, bird. I' th' clout, i' th' clout. Hewgh! Give the word. peace, this piece of toasted cheese will do ’t. There’s my gauntlet. I’ll prove it on a giant. Bring up the brown bills. O, well flown, bird. I' th' clout, i' th' clout. Hewgh! Give the word.

EDGAR

Sweet marjoram.

EDGAR

Sweet marjoram.

LEAR

95 Pass.

LEAR

Pass.

GLOUCESTER

I know that voice.

GLOUCESTER

I know that voice.

LEAR

Ha! Goneril with a white beard? Ha, Regan? They flattered me like a dog and told me I had white hairs in my beard ere the black ones were there. To say “Ay” and “No” to everything that I said “Ay” and “No” to was no good divinity. When the rain came to wet me once, and the wind to make me chatter, when the thunder would not peace at my bidding—there I found 'em, there I smelt 'em out. Go to, they are not men o' their words. They told me I was everything. 'Tis a lie, I am not ague-proof.

LEAR

Ha! Goneril with a white beard? Ha, Regan? They flattered me like a dog and told me I had white hairs in my beard ere the black ones were there. To say “Ay” and “No” to everything that I said “Ay” and “No” to was no good divinity. When the rain came to wet me once, and the wind to make me chatter, when the thunder would not peace at my bidding—there I found 'em, there I smelt 'em out. Go to, they are not men o' their words. They told me I was everything. 'Tis a lie, I am not ague-proof.

GLOUCESTER

The trick of that voice I do well remember.
Is ’t not the king?

GLOUCESTER

The trick of that voice I do well remember.
Is ’t not the king?

LEAR

   Ay, every inch a king. When I do stare, see how the subject quakes. I pardon that man’s life. What was thy cause? Adultery? Thou shalt not die. Die for adultery? No. The wren goes to ’t, and the small gilded fly does lecher in my sight. Let copulation thrive, for Gloucester’s bastard son Was kinder to his father than my daughters got ’tween the lawful sheets. To ’t, luxury, pell-mell—for I lack soldiers.

LEAR

   Ay, every inch a king. When I do stare, see how the subject quakes. I pardon that man’s life. What was thy cause? Adultery? Thou shalt not die. Die for adultery? No. The wren goes to ’t, and the small gilded fly does lecher in my sight. Let copulation thrive, for Gloucester’s bastard son Was kinder to his father than my daughters got ’tween the lawful sheets. To ’t, luxury, pell-mell—for I lack soldiers.
Behold yond simpering dame, whose face between her forks presages snow, that minces virtue and does shake the head to hear of pleasure’s name. The fitchew, nor the soiled horse, goes to ’t with a more riotous appetite. Down from the waist they are centaurs, though women all above. But to the girdle do the gods inherit; beneath is all the fiends'. There’s hell, there’s darkness, there’s the sulfurous pit— burning, scalding, stench, consumption! Fie, fie, fie, pah, pah!—Give me an ounce of civet, good apothecary, to sweeten my imagination. There’s money for thee. Behold yond simpering dame, whose face between her forks presages snow, that minces virtue and does shake the head to hear of pleasure’s name. The fitchew, nor the soiled horse, goes to ’t with a more riotous appetite. Down from the waist they are centaurs, though women all above. But to the girdle do the gods inherit; beneath is all the fiends'. There’s hell, there’s darkness, there’s the sulfurous pit— burning, scalding, stench, consumption! Fie, fie, fie, pah, pah!—Give me an ounce of civet, good apothecary, to sweeten my imagination. There’s money for thee.

GLOUCESTER

125 O, let me kiss that hand!

GLOUCESTER

O, let me kiss that hand!

LEAR

Let me wipe it first. It smells of mortality.

LEAR

Let me wipe it first. It smells of mortality.

GLOUCESTER

O ruined piece of nature! This great world
Shall so wear out to naught. Dost thou know me?

GLOUCESTER

O ruined piece of nature! This great world
Shall so wear out to naught. Dost thou know me?

LEAR

I remember thine eyes well enough. Dost thou squiny at me? No, do thy worst, blind Cupid. I’ll not love. Read thou this challenge. Mark but the penning of it.

LEAR

I remember thine eyes well enough. Dost thou squiny at me? No, do thy worst, blind Cupid. I’ll not love. Read thou this challenge. Mark but the penning of it.

GLOUCESTER

Were all thy letters suns, I could not see one.

GLOUCESTER

Were all thy letters suns, I could not see one.

EDGAR

(aside) I would not take this from report. It is,
And my heart breaks at it.

EDGAR

(aside) I would not take this from report. It is,
And my heart breaks at it.

LEAR

135 Read.

LEAR

Read.

GLOUCESTER

What, with the case of eyes?

GLOUCESTER

What, with the case of eyes?

LEAR

Oh ho, are you there with me? No eyes in your head, nor no money in your purse? Your eyes are in a heavy case, your purse in a light. Yet you see how this world goes.

LEAR

Oh ho, are you there with me? No eyes in your head, nor no money in your purse? Your eyes are in a heavy case, your purse in a light. Yet you see how this world goes.

GLOUCESTER

140 I see it feelingly.

GLOUCESTER

I see it feelingly.

LEAR

What, art mad? A man may see how this world goes with no eyes. Look with thine ears. See how yon justice rails upon yon simple thief. Hark in thine ear: change places and, handy-dandy, which is the justice, which is the thief? Thou hast seen a farmer’s dog bark at a beggar?

LEAR

What, art mad? A man may see how this world goes with no eyes. Look with thine ears. See how yon justice rails upon yon simple thief. Hark in thine ear: change places and, handy-dandy, which is the justice, which is the thief? Thou hast seen a farmer’s dog bark at a beggar?

GLOUCESTER

Ay, sir.

GLOUCESTER

Ay, sir.

LEAR

And the creature run from the cur? There thou mightst behold the great image of authority: a dog’s obeyed in office.
Thou rascal beadle, hold thy bloody hand.
Why dost thou lash that whore? Strip thine own back.
Thou hotly lust’st to use her in that kind
For which thou whipp’st her. The usurer hangs the cozener.
Through tattered clothes great vices do appear;
Robes and furred gowns hide all. Plate sin with gold,
And the strong lance of justice hurtless breaks.
Arm it in rags, a pigmy’s straw does pierce it.
None does offend—none, I say, none. I’ll able 'em.
Take that of me, my friend, who have the power
To seal th' accuser’s lips. Get thee glass eyes,
And like a scurvy politician seem
To see the things thou dost not. Now, now, now, now,
Pull off my boots. Harder, harder. So.

LEAR

And the creature run from the cur? There thou mightst behold the great image of authority: a dog’s obeyed in office.
Thou rascal beadle, hold thy bloody hand.
Why dost thou lash that whore? Strip thine own back.
Thou hotly lust’st to use her in that kind
For which thou whipp’st her. The usurer hangs the cozener.
Through tattered clothes great vices do appear;
Robes and furred gowns hide all. Plate sin with gold,
And the strong lance of justice hurtless breaks.
Arm it in rags, a pigmy’s straw does pierce it.
None does offend—none, I say, none. I’ll able 'em.
Take that of me, my friend, who have the power
To seal th' accuser’s lips. Get thee glass eyes,
And like a scurvy politician seem
To see the things thou dost not. Now, now, now, now,
Pull off my boots. Harder, harder. So.

EDGAR

(aside) O matter and impertinency mixed! Reason in madness!

EDGAR

(aside) O matter and impertinency mixed! Reason in madness!

LEAR

165 If thou wilt weep my fortunes, take my eyes.
I know thee well enough. Thy name is Gloucester.
Thou must be patient. We came crying hither.
Thou know’st the first time that we smell the air
We wawl and cry. I will preach to thee. Mark me.

LEAR

If thou wilt weep my fortunes, take my eyes.
I know thee well enough. Thy name is Gloucester.
Thou must be patient. We came crying hither.
Thou know’st the first time that we smell the air
We wawl and cry. I will preach to thee. Mark me.

GLOUCESTER

170 Alack, alack the day!

GLOUCESTER

Alack, alack the day!

LEAR

When we are born, we cry that we are come
To this great stage of fools. This a good block.
It were a delicate stratagem to shoe
A troop of horse with felt. I’ll put ’t in proof.
175 And when I have stol'n upon these sons-in-law,
Then, kill, kill, kill, kill, kill, kill!

LEAR

When we are born, we cry that we are come
To this great stage of fools. This a good block.
It were a delicate stratagem to shoe
A troop of horse with felt. I’ll put ’t in proof.
And when I have stol'n upon these sons-in-law,
Then, kill, kill, kill, kill, kill, kill!
Enter GENTLEMAN with two others
Enter GENTLEMAN with two others

GENTLEMAN

Oh, here he is. Lay hand upon him.—Sir,
Your most dear daughter—

GENTLEMAN

Oh, here he is. Lay hand upon him.—Sir,
Your most dear daughter—

LEAR

No rescue? What, a prisoner? I am even
180 The natural fool of fortune. Use me well.
You shall have ransom. Let me have surgeons.
I am cut to th' brains.

LEAR

No rescue? What, a prisoner? I am even
The natural fool of fortune. Use me well.
You shall have ransom. Let me have surgeons.
I am cut to th' brains.

GENTLEMAN

   You shall have anything.

GENTLEMAN

   You shall have anything.

LEAR

No seconds? All myself?
Why, this would make a man a man of salt,
185 To use his eyes for garden water-pots,
Ay, and laying autumn’s dust.

LEAR

No seconds? All myself?
Why, this would make a man a man of salt,
To use his eyes for garden water-pots,
Ay, and laying autumn’s dust.

GENTLEMAN

     Good sir—

GENTLEMAN

     Good sir—

LEAR

I will die bravely, like a smug bridegroom.
What, I will be jovial. Come, come.
I am a king, my masters, know you that?

LEAR

I will die bravely, like a smug bridegroom.
What, I will be jovial. Come, come.
I am a king, my masters, know you that?

GENTLEMAN

190 You are a royal one, and we obey you.

GENTLEMAN

You are a royal one, and we obey you.

LEAR

Then there’s life in ’t. Come, an if you get it, you shall get it by running. Sa, sa, sa, sa.

LEAR

Then there’s life in ’t. Come, an if you get it, you shall get it by running. Sa, sa, sa, sa.
Exit LEAR running, followed by two gentlemen
Exit LEAR running, followed by two gentlemen

GENTLEMAN

A sight most pitiful in the meanest wretch,
Past speaking of in a king. Thou hast a daughter
195 Who redeems nature from the general curse
Which twain have brought her to.

GENTLEMAN

A sight most pitiful in the meanest wretch,
Past speaking of in a king. Thou hast a daughter
Who redeems nature from the general curse
Which twain have brought her to.

EDGAR

     Hail, gentle sir.

EDGAR

     Hail, gentle sir.

GENTLEMAN

Sir, speed you. What’s your will?

GENTLEMAN

Sir, speed you. What’s your will?

EDGAR

Do you hear aught, sir, of a battle toward?

EDGAR

Do you hear aught, sir, of a battle toward?

GENTLEMAN

Most sure and vulgar. Everyone hears that
200 That can distinguish sound.

GENTLEMAN

Most sure and vulgar. Everyone hears that
That can distinguish sound.

EDGAR

But, by your favor, how near’s the other army?

EDGAR

But, by your favor, how near’s the other army?

GENTLEMAN

Near and on speedy foot. The main descry
Stands in the hourly thought.

GENTLEMAN

Near and on speedy foot. The main descry
Stands in the hourly thought.

EDGAR

   I thank you, sir. That’s all.

EDGAR

   I thank you, sir. That’s all.

GENTLEMAN

Though that the queen on special cause is here,
205 Her army is moved on.

GENTLEMAN

Though that the queen on special cause is here,
Her army is moved on.

EDGAR

   I thank you, sir.

EDGAR

   I thank you, sir.
Exit GENTLEMAN
Exit GENTLEMAN

GLOUCESTER

You ever gentle gods, take my breath from me.
Let not my worser spirit tempt me again
To die before you please.

GLOUCESTER

You ever gentle gods, take my breath from me.
Let not my worser spirit tempt me again
To die before you please.

EDGAR

Well pray you, father.

EDGAR

Well pray you, father.

GLOUCESTER

210 Now, good sir, what are you?

GLOUCESTER

Now, good sir, what are you?

EDGAR

A most poor man made tame to fortune’s blows,
Who by the art of known and feeling sorrows
Am pregnant to good pity. Give me your hand,
I’ll lead you to some biding.

EDGAR

A most poor man made tame to fortune’s blows,
Who by the art of known and feeling sorrows
Am pregnant to good pity. Give me your hand,
I’ll lead you to some biding.

GLOUCESTER

     Hearty thanks.
215 The bounty and the benison of heaven
To boot and boot.

GLOUCESTER

     Hearty thanks.
The bounty and the benison of heaven
To boot and boot.
Enter OSWALD the steward
Enter OSWALD the steward

OSWALD

A proclaimed prize! Most happy!
That eyeless head of thine was first framed flesh
To raise my fortunes. Thou old unhappy traitor,
220 Briefly thyself remember. The sword is out
That must destroy thee.

OSWALD

A proclaimed prize! Most happy!
That eyeless head of thine was first framed flesh
To raise my fortunes. Thou old unhappy traitor,
Briefly thyself remember. The sword is out
That must destroy thee.

GLOUCESTER

   Now let thy friendly hand
Put strength enough to ’t.

GLOUCESTER

   Now let thy friendly hand
Put strength enough to ’t.
EDGAR interferes
EDGAR interferes

OSWALD

   Wherefore, bold peasant,
Darest thou support a published traitor? Hence,
Lest that th' infection of his fortune take
225 Like hold on thee. Let go his arm.

OSWALD

   Wherefore, bold peasant,
Darest thou support a published traitor? Hence,
Lest that th' infection of his fortune take
Like hold on thee. Let go his arm.

EDGAR

'Chill not let go, zir, without vurther 'casion.

EDGAR

'Chill not let go, zir, without vurther 'casion.

OSWALD

Let go, slave, or thou diest!

OSWALD

Let go, slave, or thou diest!

EDGAR

Good gentleman, go your gait, and let poor volk pass. An 'chud ha' bin zwaggered out of my life, ’twould not ha' bin zo long as ’tis by a vortnight. Nay, come not near th' old man. Keep out, che vor' ye, or I’se try whether your costard or my ballow be the harder. 'Chill be plain with you.

EDGAR

Good gentleman, go your gait, and let poor volk pass. An 'chud ha' bin zwaggered out of my life, ’twould not ha' bin zo long as ’tis by a vortnight. Nay, come not near th' old man. Keep out, che vor' ye, or I’se try whether your costard or my ballow be the harder. 'Chill be plain with you.

OSWALD

Out, dunghill!

OSWALD

Out, dunghill!

EDGAR

'Chill pick your teeth, zir. Come, no matter vor your foins.

EDGAR

'Chill pick your teeth, zir. Come, no matter vor your foins.
EDGAR and OSWALD fight
EDGAR and OSWALD fight

OSWALD

(falling) Slave, thou hast slain me. Villain, take my purse.
If ever thou wilt thrive, bury my body.
And give the letters which thou find’st about me
To Edmund, Earl of Gloucester. Seek him out
Upon the British party. O untimely death! (dies)

OSWALD

(falling) Slave, thou hast slain me. Villain, take my purse.
If ever thou wilt thrive, bury my body.
And give the letters which thou find’st about me
To Edmund, Earl of Gloucester. Seek him out
Upon the British party. O untimely death! (dies)

EDGAR

240 I know thee well—a serviceable villain,
As duteous to the vices of thy mistress
As badness would desire.

EDGAR

I know thee well—a serviceable villain,
As duteous to the vices of thy mistress
As badness would desire.

GLOUCESTER

   What, is he dead?

GLOUCESTER

   What, is he dead?

EDGAR

Sit you down, father. Rest you.
Let’s see these pockets. The letters that he speaks of
May be my friends. He’s dead. I am only sorry
He had no other death’s-man. Let us see.
(takes letters out of OSWALD’s pocket and opens them)
Leave, gentle wax, and, manners, blame us not.
To know our enemies' minds, we rip their hearts.
Their papers is more lawful.
(reads)
“Let our reciprocal vows be remembered. You have many opportunities to cut him off. If your will want not, time and place will be fruitfully offered. There is nothing done if he return the conqueror. Then am I the prisoner and his bed my gaol, from the loathed warmth whereof deliver me, and supply the place for your labor. Your—wife, so I would say—affectionate servant, and for you her own for venture,
     Goneril.”
O indistinguished space of woman’s will!
A plot upon her virtuous husband’s life,
And the exchange my brother!—Here in the sands
Thee I’ll rake up, the post unsanctified
Of murderous lechers. And in the mature time
With this ungracious paper strike the sight
Of the death-practiced duke. For him ’tis well
That of thy death and business I can tell.

EDGAR

Sit you down, father. Rest you.
Let’s see these pockets. The letters that he speaks of
May be my friends. He’s dead. I am only sorry
He had no other death’s-man. Let us see.
(takes letters out of OSWALD’s pocket and opens them)
Leave, gentle wax, and, manners, blame us not.
To know our enemies' minds, we rip their hearts.
Their papers is more lawful.
(reads)
“Let our reciprocal vows be remembered. You have many opportunities to cut him off. If your will want not, time and place will be fruitfully offered. There is nothing done if he return the conqueror. Then am I the prisoner and his bed my gaol, from the loathed warmth whereof deliver me, and supply the place for your labor. Your—wife, so I would say—affectionate servant, and for you her own for venture,
     Goneril.”
O indistinguished space of woman’s will!
A plot upon her virtuous husband’s life,
And the exchange my brother!—Here in the sands
Thee I’ll rake up, the post unsanctified
Of murderous lechers. And in the mature time
With this ungracious paper strike the sight
Of the death-practiced duke. For him ’tis well
That of thy death and business I can tell.

GLOUCESTER

The king is mad. How stiff is my vile sense,
265 That I stand up and have ingenious feeling
Of my huge sorrows. Better I were distract—
So should my thoughts be severed from my griefs,
And woes by wrong imaginations lose
The knowledge of themselves.

GLOUCESTER

The king is mad. How stiff is my vile sense,
That I stand up and have ingenious feeling
Of my huge sorrows. Better I were distract—
So should my thoughts be severed from my griefs,
And woes by wrong imaginations lose
The knowledge of themselves.
Drum afar off
Drum afar off

EDGAR

     Give me your hand.
270 Far off methinks I hear the beaten drum.
Come, father, I’ll bestow you with a friend.

EDGAR

     Give me your hand.
Far off methinks I hear the beaten drum.
Come, father, I’ll bestow you with a friend.
Exeunt
Exeunt

Original Text

Modern Text
Enter GLOUCESTER , and EDGAR disguised in peasant clothing
Enter GLOUCESTER , and EDGAR disguised in peasant clothing

GLOUCESTER

When shall we come to th' top of that same hill?

GLOUCESTER

When shall we come to th' top of that same hill?

EDGAR

You do climb up it now. Look how we labor.

EDGAR

You do climb up it now. Look how we labor.

GLOUCESTER

Methinks the ground is even.

GLOUCESTER

Methinks the ground is even.

EDGAR

     Horrible steep.
Hark, do you hear the sea?

EDGAR

     Horrible steep.
Hark, do you hear the sea?

GLOUCESTER

   No, truly.

GLOUCESTER

   No, truly.

EDGAR

5 Why then, your other senses grow imperfect
By your eyes' anguish.

EDGAR

Why then, your other senses grow imperfect
By your eyes' anguish.

GLOUCESTER

   So may it be indeed.
Methinks thy voice is altered, and thou speak’st
In better phrase and matter than thou didst.

GLOUCESTER

   So may it be indeed.
Methinks thy voice is altered, and thou speak’st
In better phrase and matter than thou didst.

EDGAR

You’re much deceived. In nothing am I changed
10 But in my garments.

EDGAR

You’re much deceived. In nothing am I changed
But in my garments.

GLOUCESTER

   Methinks you’re better spoken.

GLOUCESTER

   Methinks you’re better spoken.

EDGAR

Come on, sir. Here’s the place. Stand still. How fearful
And dizzy ’tis to cast one’s eyes so low!
The crows and choughs that wing the midway air
Show scarce so gross as beetles. Halfway down
15 Hangs one that gathers samphire—dreadful trade!
Methinks he seems no bigger than his head.
The fishermen that walk upon the beach
Appear like mice.

EDGAR

Come on, sir. Here’s the place. Stand still. How fearful
And dizzy ’tis to cast one’s eyes so low!
The crows and choughs that wing the midway air
Show scarce so gross as beetles. Halfway down
Hangs one that gathers samphire—dreadful trade!
Methinks he seems no bigger than his head.
The fishermen that walk upon the beach
Appear like mice.
And yon tall anchoring bark,
Diminished to her cock, her cock a buoy
20 Almost too small for sight. The murmuring surge
That on th' unnumbered idle pebbles chafes
Cannot be heard so high. I’ll look no more
Lest my brain turn and the deficient sight
Topple down headlong.
And yon tall anchoring bark,
Diminished to her cock, her cock a buoy
Almost too small for sight. The murmuring surge
That on th' unnumbered idle pebbles chafes
Cannot be heard so high. I’ll look no more
Lest my brain turn and the deficient sight
Topple down headlong.

GLOUCESTER

25 Set me where you stand.

GLOUCESTER

Set me where you stand.

EDGAR

Give me your hand. You are now within a foot
Of th' extreme verge. For all beneath the moon
Would I not leap upright.

EDGAR

Give me your hand. You are now within a foot
Of th' extreme verge. For all beneath the moon
Would I not leap upright.

GLOUCESTER

   Let go my hand.
(gives EDGAR another purse)
30 Here, friend, ’s another purse, in it a jewel
Well worth a poor man’s taking. Fairies and gods
Prosper it with thee! Go thou farther off.
Bid me farewell, and let me hear thee going.

GLOUCESTER

   Let go my hand.
(gives EDGAR another purse)
Here, friend, ’s another purse, in it a jewel
Well worth a poor man’s taking. Fairies and gods
Prosper it with thee! Go thou farther off.
Bid me farewell, and let me hear thee going.

EDGAR

Now fare you well, good sir.

EDGAR

Now fare you well, good sir.

GLOUCESTER

   With all my heart.

GLOUCESTER

   With all my heart.
EDGAR moves aside
EDGAR moves aside

EDGAR

(aside) Why I do trifle thus with his despair
Is done to cure it.

EDGAR

(aside) Why I do trifle thus with his despair
Is done to cure it.

GLOUCESTER

   O you mighty gods, (kneels)
This world I do renounce, and in your sights
Shake patiently my great affliction off.
If I could bear it longer and not fall
40 To quarrel with your great opposeless wills,
My snuff and loathèd part of nature should
Burn itself out. If Edgar live, O, bless him!—
Now, fellow, fare thee well. (falls)

GLOUCESTER

   O you mighty gods, (kneels)
This world I do renounce, and in your sights
Shake patiently my great affliction off.
If I could bear it longer and not fall
To quarrel with your great opposeless wills,
My snuff and loathèd part of nature should
Burn itself out. If Edgar live, O, bless him!—
Now, fellow, fare thee well. (falls)

EDGAR

   Gone, sir. Farewell.
(aside) And yet I know not how conceit may rob
45 The treasury of life when life itself
Yields to the theft. Had he been where he thought,
By this had thought been past. Alive or dead?—
Ho you, sir, friend! Hear you, sir? Speak.—
Thus might he pass indeed. Yet he revives.—
50 What are you, sir?

EDGAR

   Gone, sir. Farewell.
(aside) And yet I know not how conceit may rob
The treasury of life when life itself
Yields to the theft. Had he been where he thought,
By this had thought been past. Alive or dead?—
Ho you, sir, friend! Hear you, sir? Speak.—
Thus might he pass indeed. Yet he revives.—
What are you, sir?

GLOUCESTER

   Away, and let me die.

GLOUCESTER

   Away, and let me die.

EDGAR

Hadst thou been aught but gossamer, feathers, air,
So many fathom down precipitating,
Thou’dst shivered like an egg. But thou dost breathe,
Hast heavy substance, bleed’st not, speak’st, art sound.
55 Ten masts at each make not the altitude
Which thou hast perpendicularly fell.
Thy life’s a miracle. Speak yet again.

EDGAR

Hadst thou been aught but gossamer, feathers, air,
So many fathom down precipitating,
Thou’dst shivered like an egg. But thou dost breathe,
Hast heavy substance, bleed’st not, speak’st, art sound.
Ten masts at each make not the altitude
Which thou hast perpendicularly fell.
Thy life’s a miracle. Speak yet again.

GLOUCESTER

But have I fall'n, or no?

GLOUCESTER

But have I fall'n, or no?

EDGAR

From the dread summit of this chalky bourn.
60 Look up a-height. The shrill-gorged lark so far
Cannot be seen or heard. Do but look up.

EDGAR

From the dread summit of this chalky bourn.
Look up a-height. The shrill-gorged lark so far
Cannot be seen or heard. Do but look up.

GLOUCESTER

Alack, I have no eyes.
Is wretchedness deprived that benefit,
To end itself by death? 'Twas yet some comfort
65 When misery could beguile the tyrant’s rage
And frustrate his proud will.

GLOUCESTER

Alack, I have no eyes.
Is wretchedness deprived that benefit,
To end itself by death? 'Twas yet some comfort
When misery could beguile the tyrant’s rage
And frustrate his proud will.

EDGAR

   Give me your arm.
Up so. How is ’t? Feel you your legs? You stand.

EDGAR

   Give me your arm.
Up so. How is ’t? Feel you your legs? You stand.

GLOUCESTER

Too well, too well.

GLOUCESTER

Too well, too well.

EDGAR

   This is above all strangeness.
Upon the crown o' th' cliff, what thing was that
70 Which parted from you?

EDGAR

   This is above all strangeness.
Upon the crown o' th' cliff, what thing was that
Which parted from you?

GLOUCESTER

   A poor unfortunate beggar.

GLOUCESTER

   A poor unfortunate beggar.

EDGAR

As I stood here below, methought his eyes
Were two full moons. He had a thousand noses,
Horns whelked and waved like the enragèd sea.
It was some fiend. Therefore, thou happy father,
75 Think that the clearest gods, who make them honors
Of men’s impossibilities, have preserved thee.

EDGAR

As I stood here below, methought his eyes
Were two full moons. He had a thousand noses,
Horns whelked and waved like the enragèd sea.
It was some fiend. Therefore, thou happy father,
Think that the clearest gods, who make them honors
Of men’s impossibilities, have preserved thee.

GLOUCESTER

I do remember now. Henceforth I’ll bear
Affliction till it do cry out itself,
“Enough, enough,” and die. That thing you speak of,
80 I took it for a man. Often ’twould say,
“The fiend, the fiend!” He led me to that place.

GLOUCESTER

I do remember now. Henceforth I’ll bear
Affliction till it do cry out itself,
“Enough, enough,” and die. That thing you speak of,
I took it for a man. Often ’twould say,
“The fiend, the fiend!” He led me to that place.

EDGAR

Bear free and patient thoughts.

EDGAR

Bear free and patient thoughts.
Enter LEAR , mad
Enter LEAR , mad
     But who comes here?
The safer sense will ne'er accommodate
His master thus.
     But who comes here?
The safer sense will ne'er accommodate
His master thus.

LEAR

85 No, they cannot touch me for coining. I am the king himself.

LEAR

No, they cannot touch me for coining. I am the king himself.

EDGAR

(aside) O thou side-piercing sight!

EDGAR

(aside) O thou side-piercing sight!

LEAR

Nature’s above art in that respect. There’s your press- money. That fellow handles his bow like a crowkeeper. Draw me a clothier’s yard. Look, look, a mouse! Peace,

LEAR

Nature’s above art in that respect. There’s your press- money. That fellow handles his bow like a crowkeeper. Draw me a clothier’s yard. Look, look, a mouse! Peace,
peace, this piece of toasted cheese will do ’t. There’s my gauntlet. I’ll prove it on a giant. Bring up the brown bills. O, well flown, bird. I' th' clout, i' th' clout. Hewgh! Give the word. peace, this piece of toasted cheese will do ’t. There’s my gauntlet. I’ll prove it on a giant. Bring up the brown bills. O, well flown, bird. I' th' clout, i' th' clout. Hewgh! Give the word.

EDGAR

Sweet marjoram.

EDGAR

Sweet marjoram.

LEAR

95 Pass.

LEAR

Pass.

GLOUCESTER

I know that voice.

GLOUCESTER

I know that voice.

LEAR

Ha! Goneril with a white beard? Ha, Regan? They flattered me like a dog and told me I had white hairs in my beard ere the black ones were there. To say “Ay” and “No” to everything that I said “Ay” and “No” to was no good divinity. When the rain came to wet me once, and the wind to make me chatter, when the thunder would not peace at my bidding—there I found 'em, there I smelt 'em out. Go to, they are not men o' their words. They told me I was everything. 'Tis a lie, I am not ague-proof.

LEAR

Ha! Goneril with a white beard? Ha, Regan? They flattered me like a dog and told me I had white hairs in my beard ere the black ones were there. To say “Ay” and “No” to everything that I said “Ay” and “No” to was no good divinity. When the rain came to wet me once, and the wind to make me chatter, when the thunder would not peace at my bidding—there I found 'em, there I smelt 'em out. Go to, they are not men o' their words. They told me I was everything. 'Tis a lie, I am not ague-proof.

GLOUCESTER

The trick of that voice I do well remember.
Is ’t not the king?

GLOUCESTER

The trick of that voice I do well remember.
Is ’t not the king?

LEAR

   Ay, every inch a king. When I do stare, see how the subject quakes. I pardon that man’s life. What was thy cause? Adultery? Thou shalt not die. Die for adultery? No. The wren goes to ’t, and the small gilded fly does lecher in my sight. Let copulation thrive, for Gloucester’s bastard son Was kinder to his father than my daughters got ’tween the lawful sheets. To ’t, luxury, pell-mell—for I lack soldiers.

LEAR

   Ay, every inch a king. When I do stare, see how the subject quakes. I pardon that man’s life. What was thy cause? Adultery? Thou shalt not die. Die for adultery? No. The wren goes to ’t, and the small gilded fly does lecher in my sight. Let copulation thrive, for Gloucester’s bastard son Was kinder to his father than my daughters got ’tween the lawful sheets. To ’t, luxury, pell-mell—for I lack soldiers.
Behold yond simpering dame, whose face between her forks presages snow, that minces virtue and does shake the head to hear of pleasure’s name. The fitchew, nor the soiled horse, goes to ’t with a more riotous appetite. Down from the waist they are centaurs, though women all above. But to the girdle do the gods inherit; beneath is all the fiends'. There’s hell, there’s darkness, there’s the sulfurous pit— burning, scalding, stench, consumption! Fie, fie, fie, pah, pah!—Give me an ounce of civet, good apothecary, to sweeten my imagination. There’s money for thee. Behold yond simpering dame, whose face between her forks presages snow, that minces virtue and does shake the head to hear of pleasure’s name. The fitchew, nor the soiled horse, goes to ’t with a more riotous appetite. Down from the waist they are centaurs, though women all above. But to the girdle do the gods inherit; beneath is all the fiends'. There’s hell, there’s darkness, there’s the sulfurous pit— burning, scalding, stench, consumption! Fie, fie, fie, pah, pah!—Give me an ounce of civet, good apothecary, to sweeten my imagination. There’s money for thee.

GLOUCESTER

125 O, let me kiss that hand!

GLOUCESTER

O, let me kiss that hand!

LEAR

Let me wipe it first. It smells of mortality.

LEAR

Let me wipe it first. It smells of mortality.

GLOUCESTER

O ruined piece of nature! This great world
Shall so wear out to naught. Dost thou know me?

GLOUCESTER

O ruined piece of nature! This great world
Shall so wear out to naught. Dost thou know me?

LEAR

I remember thine eyes well enough. Dost thou squiny at me? No, do thy worst, blind Cupid. I’ll not love. Read thou this challenge. Mark but the penning of it.

LEAR

I remember thine eyes well enough. Dost thou squiny at me? No, do thy worst, blind Cupid. I’ll not love. Read thou this challenge. Mark but the penning of it.

GLOUCESTER

Were all thy letters suns, I could not see one.

GLOUCESTER

Were all thy letters suns, I could not see one.

EDGAR

(aside) I would not take this from report. It is,
And my heart breaks at it.

EDGAR

(aside) I would not take this from report. It is,
And my heart breaks at it.

LEAR

135 Read.

LEAR

Read.

GLOUCESTER

What, with the case of eyes?

GLOUCESTER

What, with the case of eyes?

LEAR

Oh ho, are you there with me? No eyes in your head, nor no money in your purse? Your eyes are in a heavy case, your purse in a light. Yet you see how this world goes.

LEAR

Oh ho, are you there with me? No eyes in your head, nor no money in your purse? Your eyes are in a heavy case, your purse in a light. Yet you see how this world goes.

GLOUCESTER

140 I see it feelingly.

GLOUCESTER

I see it feelingly.

LEAR

What, art mad? A man may see how this world goes with no eyes. Look with thine ears. See how yon justice rails upon yon simple thief. Hark in thine ear: change places and, handy-dandy, which is the justice, which is the thief? Thou hast seen a farmer’s dog bark at a beggar?

LEAR

What, art mad? A man may see how this world goes with no eyes. Look with thine ears. See how yon justice rails upon yon simple thief. Hark in thine ear: change places and, handy-dandy, which is the justice, which is the thief? Thou hast seen a farmer’s dog bark at a beggar?

GLOUCESTER

Ay, sir.

GLOUCESTER

Ay, sir.

LEAR

And the creature run from the cur? There thou mightst behold the great image of authority: a dog’s obeyed in office.
Thou rascal beadle, hold thy bloody hand.
Why dost thou lash that whore? Strip thine own back.
Thou hotly lust’st to use her in that kind
For which thou whipp’st her. The usurer hangs the cozener.
Through tattered clothes great vices do appear;
Robes and furred gowns hide all. Plate sin with gold,
And the strong lance of justice hurtless breaks.
Arm it in rags, a pigmy’s straw does pierce it.
None does offend—none, I say, none. I’ll able 'em.
Take that of me, my friend, who have the power
To seal th' accuser’s lips. Get thee glass eyes,
And like a scurvy politician seem
To see the things thou dost not. Now, now, now, now,
Pull off my boots. Harder, harder. So.

LEAR

And the creature run from the cur? There thou mightst behold the great image of authority: a dog’s obeyed in office.
Thou rascal beadle, hold thy bloody hand.
Why dost thou lash that whore? Strip thine own back.
Thou hotly lust’st to use her in that kind
For which thou whipp’st her. The usurer hangs the cozener.
Through tattered clothes great vices do appear;
Robes and furred gowns hide all. Plate sin with gold,
And the strong lance of justice hurtless breaks.
Arm it in rags, a pigmy’s straw does pierce it.
None does offend—none, I say, none. I’ll able 'em.
Take that of me, my friend, who have the power
To seal th' accuser’s lips. Get thee glass eyes,
And like a scurvy politician seem
To see the things thou dost not. Now, now, now, now,
Pull off my boots. Harder, harder. So.

EDGAR

(aside) O matter and impertinency mixed! Reason in madness!

EDGAR

(aside) O matter and impertinency mixed! Reason in madness!

LEAR

165 If thou wilt weep my fortunes, take my eyes.
I know thee well enough. Thy name is Gloucester.
Thou must be patient. We came crying hither.
Thou know’st the first time that we smell the air
We wawl and cry. I will preach to thee. Mark me.

LEAR

If thou wilt weep my fortunes, take my eyes.
I know thee well enough. Thy name is Gloucester.
Thou must be patient. We came crying hither.
Thou know’st the first time that we smell the air
We wawl and cry. I will preach to thee. Mark me.

GLOUCESTER

170 Alack, alack the day!

GLOUCESTER

Alack, alack the day!

LEAR

When we are born, we cry that we are come
To this great stage of fools. This a good block.
It were a delicate stratagem to shoe
A troop of horse with felt. I’ll put ’t in proof.
175 And when I have stol'n upon these sons-in-law,
Then, kill, kill, kill, kill, kill, kill!

LEAR

When we are born, we cry that we are come
To this great stage of fools. This a good block.
It were a delicate stratagem to shoe
A troop of horse with felt. I’ll put ’t in proof.
And when I have stol'n upon these sons-in-law,
Then, kill, kill, kill, kill, kill, kill!
Enter GENTLEMAN with two others
Enter GENTLEMAN with two others

GENTLEMAN

Oh, here he is. Lay hand upon him.—Sir,
Your most dear daughter—

GENTLEMAN

Oh, here he is. Lay hand upon him.—Sir,
Your most dear daughter—

LEAR

No rescue? What, a prisoner? I am even
180 The natural fool of fortune. Use me well.
You shall have ransom. Let me have surgeons.
I am cut to th' brains.

LEAR

No rescue? What, a prisoner? I am even
The natural fool of fortune. Use me well.
You shall have ransom. Let me have surgeons.
I am cut to th' brains.

GENTLEMAN

   You shall have anything.

GENTLEMAN

   You shall have anything.

LEAR

No seconds? All myself?
Why, this would make a man a man of salt,
185 To use his eyes for garden water-pots,
Ay, and laying autumn’s dust.

LEAR

No seconds? All myself?
Why, this would make a man a man of salt,
To use his eyes for garden water-pots,
Ay, and laying autumn’s dust.

GENTLEMAN

     Good sir—

GENTLEMAN

     Good sir—

LEAR

I will die bravely, like a smug bridegroom.
What, I will be jovial. Come, come.
I am a king, my masters, know you that?

LEAR

I will die bravely, like a smug bridegroom.
What, I will be jovial. Come, come.
I am a king, my masters, know you that?

GENTLEMAN

190 You are a royal one, and we obey you.

GENTLEMAN

You are a royal one, and we obey you.

LEAR

Then there’s life in ’t. Come, an if you get it, you shall get it by running. Sa, sa, sa, sa.

LEAR

Then there’s life in ’t. Come, an if you get it, you shall get it by running. Sa, sa, sa, sa.
Exit LEAR running, followed by two gentlemen
Exit LEAR running, followed by two gentlemen

GENTLEMAN

A sight most pitiful in the meanest wretch,
Past speaking of in a king. Thou hast a daughter
195 Who redeems nature from the general curse
Which twain have brought her to.

GENTLEMAN

A sight most pitiful in the meanest wretch,
Past speaking of in a king. Thou hast a daughter
Who redeems nature from the general curse
Which twain have brought her to.

EDGAR

     Hail, gentle sir.

EDGAR

     Hail, gentle sir.

GENTLEMAN

Sir, speed you. What’s your will?

GENTLEMAN

Sir, speed you. What’s your will?

EDGAR

Do you hear aught, sir, of a battle toward?

EDGAR

Do you hear aught, sir, of a battle toward?

GENTLEMAN

Most sure and vulgar. Everyone hears that
200 That can distinguish sound.

GENTLEMAN

Most sure and vulgar. Everyone hears that
That can distinguish sound.

EDGAR

But, by your favor, how near’s the other army?

EDGAR

But, by your favor, how near’s the other army?

GENTLEMAN

Near and on speedy foot. The main descry
Stands in the hourly thought.

GENTLEMAN

Near and on speedy foot. The main descry
Stands in the hourly thought.

EDGAR

   I thank you, sir. That’s all.

EDGAR

   I thank you, sir. That’s all.

GENTLEMAN

Though that the queen on special cause is here,
205 Her army is moved on.

GENTLEMAN

Though that the queen on special cause is here,
Her army is moved on.

EDGAR

   I thank you, sir.

EDGAR

   I thank you, sir.
Exit GENTLEMAN
Exit GENTLEMAN

GLOUCESTER

You ever gentle gods, take my breath from me.
Let not my worser spirit tempt me again
To die before you please.

GLOUCESTER

You ever gentle gods, take my breath from me.
Let not my worser spirit tempt me again
To die before you please.

EDGAR

Well pray you, father.

EDGAR

Well pray you, father.

GLOUCESTER

210 Now, good sir, what are you?

GLOUCESTER

Now, good sir, what are you?

EDGAR

A most poor man made tame to fortune’s blows,
Who by the art of known and feeling sorrows
Am pregnant to good pity. Give me your hand,
I’ll lead you to some biding.

EDGAR

A most poor man made tame to fortune’s blows,
Who by the art of known and feeling sorrows
Am pregnant to good pity. Give me your hand,
I’ll lead you to some biding.

GLOUCESTER

     Hearty thanks.
215 The bounty and the benison of heaven
To boot and boot.

GLOUCESTER

     Hearty thanks.
The bounty and the benison of heaven
To boot and boot.
Enter OSWALD the steward
Enter OSWALD the steward

OSWALD

A proclaimed prize! Most happy!
That eyeless head of thine was first framed flesh
To raise my fortunes. Thou old unhappy traitor,
220 Briefly thyself remember. The sword is out
That must destroy thee.

OSWALD

A proclaimed prize! Most happy!
That eyeless head of thine was first framed flesh
To raise my fortunes. Thou old unhappy traitor,
Briefly thyself remember. The sword is out
That must destroy thee.

GLOUCESTER

   Now let thy friendly hand
Put strength enough to ’t.

GLOUCESTER

   Now let thy friendly hand
Put strength enough to ’t.
EDGAR interferes
EDGAR interferes

OSWALD

   Wherefore, bold peasant,
Darest thou support a published traitor? Hence,
Lest that th' infection of his fortune take
225 Like hold on thee. Let go his arm.

OSWALD

   Wherefore, bold peasant,
Darest thou support a published traitor? Hence,
Lest that th' infection of his fortune take
Like hold on thee. Let go his arm.

EDGAR

'Chill not let go, zir, without vurther 'casion.

EDGAR

'Chill not let go, zir, without vurther 'casion.

OSWALD

Let go, slave, or thou diest!

OSWALD

Let go, slave, or thou diest!

EDGAR

Good gentleman, go your gait, and let poor volk pass. An 'chud ha' bin zwaggered out of my life, ’twould not ha' bin zo long as ’tis by a vortnight. Nay, come not near th' old man. Keep out, che vor' ye, or I’se try whether your costard or my ballow be the harder. 'Chill be plain with you.

EDGAR

Good gentleman, go your gait, and let poor volk pass. An 'chud ha' bin zwaggered out of my life, ’twould not ha' bin zo long as ’tis by a vortnight. Nay, come not near th' old man. Keep out, che vor' ye, or I’se try whether your costard or my ballow be the harder. 'Chill be plain with you.

OSWALD

Out, dunghill!

OSWALD

Out, dunghill!

EDGAR

'Chill pick your teeth, zir. Come, no matter vor your foins.

EDGAR

'Chill pick your teeth, zir. Come, no matter vor your foins.
EDGAR and OSWALD fight
EDGAR and OSWALD fight

OSWALD

(falling) Slave, thou hast slain me. Villain, take my purse.
If ever thou wilt thrive, bury my body.
And give the letters which thou find’st about me
To Edmund, Earl of Gloucester. Seek him out
Upon the British party. O untimely death! (dies)

OSWALD

(falling) Slave, thou hast slain me. Villain, take my purse.
If ever thou wilt thrive, bury my body.
And give the letters which thou find’st about me
To Edmund, Earl of Gloucester. Seek him out
Upon the British party. O untimely death! (dies)

EDGAR

240 I know thee well—a serviceable villain,
As duteous to the vices of thy mistress
As badness would desire.

EDGAR

I know thee well—a serviceable villain,
As duteous to the vices of thy mistress
As badness would desire.

GLOUCESTER

   What, is he dead?

GLOUCESTER

   What, is he dead?

EDGAR

Sit you down, father. Rest you.
Let’s see these pockets. The letters that he speaks of
May be my friends. He’s dead. I am only sorry
He had no other death’s-man. Let us see.
(takes letters out of OSWALD’s pocket and opens them)
Leave, gentle wax, and, manners, blame us not.
To know our enemies' minds, we rip their hearts.
Their papers is more lawful.
(reads)
“Let our reciprocal vows be remembered. You have many opportunities to cut him off. If your will want not, time and place will be fruitfully offered. There is nothing done if he return the conqueror. Then am I the prisoner and his bed my gaol, from the loathed warmth whereof deliver me, and supply the place for your labor. Your—wife, so I would say—affectionate servant, and for you her own for venture,
     Goneril.”
O indistinguished space of woman’s will!
A plot upon her virtuous husband’s life,
And the exchange my brother!—Here in the sands
Thee I’ll rake up, the post unsanctified
Of murderous lechers. And in the mature time
With this ungracious paper strike the sight
Of the death-practiced duke. For him ’tis well
That of thy death and business I can tell.

EDGAR

Sit you down, father. Rest you.
Let’s see these pockets. The letters that he speaks of
May be my friends. He’s dead. I am only sorry
He had no other death’s-man. Let us see.
(takes letters out of OSWALD’s pocket and opens them)
Leave, gentle wax, and, manners, blame us not.
To know our enemies' minds, we rip their hearts.
Their papers is more lawful.
(reads)
“Let our reciprocal vows be remembered. You have many opportunities to cut him off. If your will want not, time and place will be fruitfully offered. There is nothing done if he return the conqueror. Then am I the prisoner and his bed my gaol, from the loathed warmth whereof deliver me, and supply the place for your labor. Your—wife, so I would say—affectionate servant, and for you her own for venture,
     Goneril.”
O indistinguished space of woman’s will!
A plot upon her virtuous husband’s life,
And the exchange my brother!—Here in the sands
Thee I’ll rake up, the post unsanctified
Of murderous lechers. And in the mature time
With this ungracious paper strike the sight
Of the death-practiced duke. For him ’tis well
That of thy death and business I can tell.

GLOUCESTER

The king is mad. How stiff is my vile sense,
265 That I stand up and have ingenious feeling
Of my huge sorrows. Better I were distract—
So should my thoughts be severed from my griefs,
And woes by wrong imaginations lose
The knowledge of themselves.

GLOUCESTER

The king is mad. How stiff is my vile sense,
That I stand up and have ingenious feeling
Of my huge sorrows. Better I were distract—
So should my thoughts be severed from my griefs,
And woes by wrong imaginations lose
The knowledge of themselves.
Drum afar off
Drum afar off

EDGAR

     Give me your hand.
270 Far off methinks I hear the beaten drum.
Come, father, I’ll bestow you with a friend.

EDGAR

     Give me your hand.
Far off methinks I hear the beaten drum.
Come, father, I’ll bestow you with a friend.
Exeunt
Exeunt
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