Page 273 - Shakespeare - Vol. 1

In marriage, with a large and sumptuous dowry. [20]

KING HENRY [Exit Attendant.]

Marriage, uncle? Alas, my years are young;
And fitter is my study and my books
Than wanton dalliance with a paramour.
Yet call th’ambassadors, and, as you please,
So let them have their answers every one. [25]

I shall be well content with any choice
Tends to God’s glory and my country’s weal.

Enter Winchester [in cardinal’s habit] and three Ambassadors [one a
Papal Legate].

EXET ER

What! Is my Lord of Winchester installed,
And called unto a cardinal’s degree?
Then I perceive that will be verified [30]
Henry the Fifth did sometime prophesy:
‘If once he come to be a cardinal,
He’ll make his cap co-equal with the crown’.

KING HENRY

My lords ambassadors, your several suits
Have been considered and debated on; [35]
Your purpose is both good and reasonable:
And therefore are we certainly resolved
To draw conditions of a friendly peace
Which by my Lord of Winchester we mean
Shall be transported presently to France. [40]

GLOUCEST ER

[to the Armagnac Ambassador]
And for the proffer of my lord your master,
I have informed his highness so at large
As, liking of the lady’s virtuous gifts,
Her beauty, and the value of her dower,
He doth intend she shall be England’s queen. [45]

KING HENRY