Page 217 - Shakespeare - Vol. 1

I laugh to see your ladyship so fond
To think that you have aught but Talbot’s shadow [45]
Whereon to practise your severity.

COUNT ESS

Why, art not thou the man?

T ALBOT

I am indeed.

COUNT ESS

Then have I substance too.

T ALBOT

No, no, I am but shadow of myself:
You are deceived, my substance is not here; [50]
For what you see is but the smallest part
And least proportion of humanity:
I tell you, madam, were the whole frame here,
It is of such a spacious lofty pitch
Your roof were not sufficient to contain’t. [55]

COUNT ESS

This is a riddling merchant for the nonce:
He will be here, and yet he is not here;
How can these contrarieties agree?

T ALBOT

That will I show you presently.
Winds his horn; drums strike up; a peal of ordnance.
Enter Soldiers.

How say you, madam? Are you now persuaded [60]
That Talbot is but shadow of himself?
These are his substance, sinews, arms, and strength,
With which he yoketh your rebellious necks,
Razeth your cities, and subverts your towns,
And in a moment makes them desolate. [65]

COUNT ESS

Victorious Talbot, pardon my abuse;