Page 1813 - Shakespeare - Vol. 3

Thy asses are gone about ’em. The reason why the seven stars are no mo
than seven is a pretty reason.

LEAR
Because they are not eight?

FOOL
Yes, indeed: thou would’st make a good Fool. [35]

LEAR
To take’t again perforce! Monster Ingratitude!

FOOL
If thou wert my Fool, Nuncle, I’d have thee beaten for being old before thy

time.

LEAR
How’s that?

FOOL
Thou should’st not have been old till thou hadst [40] been wise.

LEAR
O! let me not be mad, not mad, sweet heaven;
Keep me in temper; I would not be mad!

Enter Gentleman.
How now! Are the horses ready?

GENTLEMAN
Ready, my Lord. [45]

LEAR
Come, boy.

FOOL
She that’s a maid now, and laughs at my departure,
Shall not be a maid long, unless things be cut shorter.