Page 252 - Shakespeare - Vol. 3

Mad let us grant him then. And now remains [100]
That we find out the cause of this effect,
Or rather say the cause of this defect,
For this effect defective comes by cause.

Thus it remains; and the remainder thus:
Perpend, [105]
I have a daughter − have while she is mine −
Who in her duty and obedience, mark,

Hath given me this. Now gather and surmise.
(Reads) To the celestial and my soul’s idol, the most beautified Ophelia −
That’s an ill phrase, a vile [110] phrase, ‘beautified’ is a vile phrase. But you
shall hear − these; in her excellent white bosom, these &c.

QUEEN
Came this from Hamlet to her?

POLONIUS
Good madam, stay awhile, I will be faithful.
Doubt thou the stars are fire, [115]
Doubt that the sun doth move,
Doubt truth to be a liar,

But never doubt I love.
O dear Ophelia, I am ill at these numbers. I have not art to reckon my
groans. But that I love thee best, O most best, [120] believe it. Adieu.
Thine evermore, most dear lady, whilst this machine is to

him,
Hamlet.
This in obedience hath my daughter shown me,
And, more above, hath his solicitings, [125]

As they fell out by time, by means, and place,
All given to mine ear.

KING
But how hath she receiv’d his love?

POLONIUS
What do you think of me?