Page 248 - Shakespeare - Vol. 1

Scene IV

[Flourish.] Enter the King, Gloucester, Winchester, [Richard Plantagenet,
now Duke of] York, Suffolk, Somerset, Warwick, Exeter [, Vernon, Basset,

and others]: to them, with his Soldiers, Talbot.

T ALBOT

My gracious prince, and honourable peers,
Hearing of your arrival in this realm,
I have awhile given truce unto my wars
To do my duty to my sovereign:
In sign whereof, this arm that hath reclaimed [5]
To your obedience fifty fortresses,
Twelve cities, and seven walled towns of strength,
Beside five hundred prisoners of esteem,
Lets fall his sword before your highness’ feet;
And with submissive loyalty of heart [10]
Ascribes the glory of his conquest got
First to my God, and next unto your grace.

[Kneels.]

KING HENRY

Is this the Lord Talbot, Uncle Gloucester,
That hath so long been resident in France?

GLOUCEST ER

Yes, if it please your majesty, my liege. [15]

KING HENRY

Welcome, brave captain and victorious lord!
When I was young (as yet I am not old)
I do remember how my father said
A stouter champion never handled sword.
Long since we were resolvèd of your truth, [20]
Your faithful service, and your toil in war;
Yet never have you tasted our reward,
Or been reguerdoned with so much as thanks,
Because till now we never saw your face.
Therefore stand up; and for these good deserts [25]
We here create you Earl of Shrewsbury,
And in our coronation take your place.