Page 1784 - Shakespeare - Vol. 3

That hath depriv’d me of your grace and favour,
But even for want of that for which I am richer,
A still-soliciting eye, and such a tongue [230]
That I am glad I have not, though not to have it

Hath lost me in your liking.

LEAR
Better thou
Hadst not been born than not t’have pleased me better.

FRANCE
Is it but this? a tardiness in nature
Which often leaves the history unspoke [235]

That it intends to do? My Lord of Burgundy,
What say you to the lady? Love’s not love
When it is mingled with regards that stand
Aloof from th’entire point. Will you have her?

She is herself a dowry.

BURGUNDY
Royal King, [240]
Give but that portion which yourself propos’d,
And here I take Cordelia by the hand,

Duchess of Burgundy.

LEAR

Nothing: I have sworn; I am firm.

BURGUNDY
I am sorry, then, you have so lost a father [245]
That you must lose a husband.

CORDELIA
Peace be with Burgundy!
Since that respect and fortunes are his love,

I shall not be his wife.