Page 199 - Shakespeare - Vol. 1

Hath here distrained the Tower to his use.

WINCHEST ER

Here’s Gloucester, a foe to citizens,
One that still motions war and never peace,
O’ercharging your free purses with large fines;
That seeks to overthrow religion, [65]
Because he is Protector of the realm;
And would have armour here out of the Tower,
To crown himself king and suppress the prince.

GLOUCEST ER

I will not answer thee with words, but blows.
Here they skirmish again.

MAY OR

Nought rests for me in this tumultuous strife [70]
But to make open proclamation.
Come, officer, as loud as e’er thou canst, cry.

[Hands the Officer a paper.]

[OFFICER]

All manner of men, assembled here in arms this day, against God’s peace
and the king’s, we charge and command you, in his highness’ name, to
repair to [75] your several dwelling places, and not to wear, handle, or use
any sword, weapon, or dagger henceforward, upon pain of death.

[The fighting ceases.]

GLOUCEST ER

Cardinal, I’ll be no breaker of the law;
But we shall meet and break our minds at large. [80]

WINCHEST ER

Gloucester, we’ll meet to thy cost, be sure;
Thy heart-blood I will have for this day’s work.

MAY OR

I’ll call for clubs if you will not away.
[Aside]

This cardinal’s more haughty than the devil.