Page 315 - Shakespeare - Vol. 3

HAMLET

Ay, sir, that soaks up the King’s countenance, his rewards, his authorities. But
such officers do [15]the King best service in the end: he keeps them, like an
ape, in the corner of his jaw − first mouthed, to be last swallowed. When he

needs what you have gleaned, it is but squeezing you and, sponge, you shall
be dry again. [20]

ROSENCRANTZ
I understand you not, my lord.

HAMLET
I am glad of it. A knavish speech sleeps in a foolish ear.

ROSENCRANTZ
My lord, you must tell us where the body is and go with us to the King. [25]

HAMLET
The body is with the King, but the King is not with the body. The King is a
thing −

GUILDENSTERN

A thing, my lord?

HAMLET

Of nothing. Bring me to him.
Exeunt.

Scene III IT

Enter King and two or three [Lords].

KING

I have sent to seek him and to find the body.
How dangerous is it that this man goes loose!
Yet must not we put the strong law on him:
He’s lov’d of the distracted multitude,