Page 1660 - Shakespeare - Vol. 4

KING

And once more in mine arms I bid him welcome,
And thank the holy conclave for their loves.
They have sent me such a man I would have wished for.

CAMPEIUS
Your grace must needs deserve all strangers’ loves, [100]

You are so noble. To your highness’ hand
I tender my commission, by whose virtue,
The court of Rome commanding, you, my lord
Cardinal of York, are joined with me their servant

In the unpartial judging of this business. [105]

KING

Two equal men. The Queen shall be acquainted
Forthwith for what you come. Where’s Gardiner?

WOLSEY
I know your majesty has always loved her
So dear in heart not to deny her that

A woman of less place might ask by law: [110]
Scholars allowed freely to argue for her.

KING
Ay, and the best she shall have, and my favour
To him that does best, God forbid else. Cardinal,
Prithee call Gardiner to me, my new secretary;

I find him a fit fellow. [115]

Enter Gardiner

WOLSEY
[aside to Gardiner]
Give me your hand: much joy and favour to you.
You are the King’s now.

GARDINER

[aside to Wolsey]