Page 535 - Shakespeare - Vol. 1

And did he not, in his protectorship, [60]
Levy great sums of money through the realm
For soldiers’ pay in France, and never sent it?
By means whereof the towns each day revolted?

BUCKINGHAM

Tut, these are petty faults to faults unknown
Which time will bring to light in smooth Duke Humphrey. [65]

KING HENRY

My lords, at once: the care you have of us
To mow down thorns that would annoy our foot
Is worthy praise; but, shall I speak my conscience,
Our kinsman Gloucester is as innocent
From meaning treason to our royal person [70]
As is the sucking lamb or harmless dove:
The duke is virtuous, mild, and too well given
To dream on evil or to work my downfall.

MARGARET

Ah, what’s more dangerous than this fond affiance?
Seems he a dove? His feathers are but borrowed, [75]
For he’s disposèd as the hateful raven.
Is he a lamb? His skin is surely lent him,
For he’s inclined as is the ravenous wolves.
Who cannot steal a shape that means deceit?
Take heed, my lord, the welfare of us all [80]
Hangs on the cutting short that fraudful man.

Enter Somerset.

SOMERSET

All health unto my gracious sovereign.

KING HENRY

Welcome, Lord Somerset. What news from France?

SOMERSET

That all your interest in those territories
Is utterly bereft you: all is lost. [85]