Page 1716 - Shakespeare - Vol. 4

KATHERINE

After my death I wish no other herald,
No other speaker of my living actions, [70]
To keep mine honour from corruption

But such an honest chronicler as Griffith.
Whom I most hated living, thou hast made me,
With thy religious truth and modesty,
Now in his ashes honour. Peace be with him. [75]
Patience, be near me still, and set me lower;

I have not long to trouble thee. Good Griffith,
Cause the musicians play me that sad note
I named my knell, whilst I sit meditating

On that celestial harmony I go to. [80]
Sad and solemn music

GRIFFITH
She is asleep. Good wench, let’s sit down quiet,
For fear we wake her. Softly, gentle Patience.

The Vision

Enter, solemnly tripping one after another, six personages clad in white
robes, wearing on their heads garlands of bays, and golden vizards on their
faces; branches of bays or palm in their hands. They first congee unto her,
then dance; and, at certain changes, the first two hold a spare garland over
her head, at which the other four make reverent curtsies. Then the two that

held the garland deliver the same to the other next two, who observe the
same order in their changes, and holding the garland over her head; which
done they deliver the same garland to the last two, who likewise observe the

same order. At which, as it were by inspiration, she makes in her sleep signs
of rejoicing, and holdeth up her hands to heaven; and so in their dancing
vanish, carrying the garland with them. The music continues

KATHERINE
Spirits of peace, where are ye? Are ye all gone,
And leave me here in wretchedness behind ye?

GRIFFITH
Madam, we are here.