Page 364 - Shakespeare - Vol. 3

to him that you attend him in the hall. He sends to know if your pleasure hold
to play with Laertes or that you will take longer [195] time.

HAMLET
I am constant to my purposes, they follow the King’s pleasure. If his fitness
speaks, mine is ready. Now or whensoever, provided I be so able as now.

LORD
The King and Queen and all are coming down. [200]

HAMLET
In happy time.

LORD
The Queen desires you to use some gentle entertainment to Laertes before
you fall to play.

HAMLET
She well instructs me.
[Exit Lord.]

HORATIO
You will lose, my lord. [205]

HAMLET

I do not think so. Since he went into France, I have been in continual
practice. I shall win at the odds. Thou wouldst not think how ill all’s here
about my heart; but it is no matter.

HORATIO
Nay, good my lord. [210]

HAMLET
It is but foolery, but it is such a kind of gaingiving as would perhaps trouble a
woman.

HORATIO