Page 1630 - Shakespeare - Vol. 4

That is new-trimmed, but benefit no further [80]
Than vainly longing. What we oft do best,
By sick interpreters, once weak ones, is
Not ours, or not allowed; what worst, as oft

Hitting a grosser quality, is cried up
For our best act. If we shall stand still, [85]
In fear our motion will be mocked or carped at,
We should take root here where we sit,

Or sit state-statues only.

KING
Things done well,
And with a care, exempt themselves from fear;
Things done without example, in their issue [90]
Are to be feared. Have you a precedent

Of this commission? I believe, not any.
We must not rend our subjects from our laws,
And stick them in our will. Sixth part of each?

A trembling contribution: why, we take [95]
From every tree lop, bark, and part o’th’timber,
And though we leave it with a root, thus hacked,
The air will drink the sap. To every county
Where this is questioned send our letters with

Free pardon to each man that has denied [100]
The force of this commission. Pray look to’t;
I put it to your care.

WOLSEY
[to Secretary]

A word with you.
Let there be letters writ to every shire
Of the King’s grace and pardon. The grievèd commons
Hardly conceive of me: let it be noised [105]

That through our intercession this revokement
And pardon comes; I shall anon advise you
Further in the proceeding.
Exit Secretary