Page 1069 - Shakespeare - Vol. 2

ACT IV IT

Scene I IT

Enter the Archbishop [of York], Mowbray, Hastings [and others], within the
Forest of Gaultree.

ARCHBISHOP
What is this forest called?

HASTINGS
’Tis Gaultree Forest, an’t shall please your grace.

ARCHBISHOP
Here stand, my lords, and send discoverers forth

To know the numbers of our enemies.

HASTINGS

We have sent forth already.

ARCHBISHOP
’Tis well done. [5]
My friends and brethren in these great affairs,
I must acquaint you that I have received
New-dated letters from Northumberland,

Their cold intent, tenor, and substance, thus:
Here doth he wish his person, with such powers [10]
As might hold sortance with his quality,

The which he could not levy. Whereupon
He is retired, to ripe his growing fortunes,
To Scotland, and concludes in hearty prayers
That your attempts may overlive the hazard [15]
And fearful meeting of their opposite.