Henry VIII

by

William Shakespeare

Henry VIII is a historical play that depicts the life of King Henry VIII of England and his tumultuous reign. The play begins with the arrival of Cardinal Wolsey, who is a close confidante of King Henry VIII. The two discuss the king's desire to divorce his wife, Catherine of Aragon, and marry Anne Boleyn in order to secure a male heir to the throne. Wolsey arranges for the king's divorce, but his actions ultimately lead to his downfall.

The play also focuses on the relationship between Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn, as well as the political and religious upheaval that occurred during Henry's reign. The play depicts the rise of Protestantism in England, as well as the dissolution of the monasteries and the suppression of the Catholic Church.

Throughout the play, there are several important historical events that are depicted, including the birth of Henry and Anne's daughter, Elizabeth I, the execution of Anne Boleyn, and the death of Henry VIII. The play also introduces several important historical figures, including Thomas Cromwell, Thomas Cranmer, and Catherine of Aragon.

Overall, Henry VIII is a complex and engaging play that depicts the political and religious turmoil of the Tudor period. It explores themes of power, love, and betrayal, and offers a fascinating glimpse into one of the most tumultuous periods in English history.

The Prologue from "Henry VIII" sets the stage for the historical events that are about to unfold. It begins by acknowledging the limitations of theater and asking the audience to use their imagination to fill in the gaps.

The Prologue then introduces the main characters and their relationships. King Henry VIII is described as a noble and wise ruler, and his queen, Katherine of Aragon, is praised for her virtues and beauty. Cardinal Wolsey, a prominent figure in Henry's court, is also mentioned, emphasizing his influence and power.

The Prologue foreshadows the central conflict of the play, which revolves around Henry's desire for a male heir and his intention to divorce Katherine in order to marry Anne Boleyn. It hints at the political and religious consequences that this decision will have on England.

Additionally, the Prologue briefly mentions the religious tensions of the time, alluding to the Reformation and the growing influence of Protestantism. It highlights the contrasting opinions and divisions within the Church and society.

As the Prologue concludes, it calls upon the audience to actively engage with the performance and draw their own conclusions. It suggests that the events to be portrayed are based on real historical events and encourages the audience to reflect on the complexities of power, loyalty, and the consequences of individual actions.

The Prologue from "Henry VIII" serves as an introductory address, providing necessary context and setting the tone for the play. It invites the audience to immerse themselves in the historical drama that is about to unfold, encouraging them to contemplate the themes and moral dilemmas presented throughout the narrative.

THE PROLOGUE

I come no more to make you laugh: things now,
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That bear a weighty and a serious brow,
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Sad, high, and working, full of state and woe,
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Such noble scenes as draw the eye to flow,
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We now present. Those that can pity, here
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May, if they think it well, let fall a tear;
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The subject will deserve it. Such as give
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Their money out of hope they may believe,
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May here find truth too. Those that come to see
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Only a show or two, and so agree
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The play may pass, if they be still and willing,
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I'll undertake may see away their shilling
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Richly in two short hours. Only they
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That come to hear a merry bawdy play,
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A noise of targets, or to see a fellow
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In a long motley coat guarded with yellow,
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Will be deceived; for, gentle hearers, know,
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To rank our chosen truth with such a show
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As fool and fight is, beside forfeiting
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Our own brains, and the opinion that we bring,
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To make that only true we now intend,
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Will leave us never an understanding friend.
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Therefore, for goodness' sake, and as you are known
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The first and happiest hearers of the town,
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Be sad, as we would make ye: think ye see
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The very persons of our noble story
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As they were living; think you see them great,
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And follow'd with the general throng and sweat
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Of thousand friends; then in a moment, see
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How soon this mightiness meets misery:
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And, if you can be merry then, I'll say
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A man may weep upon his wedding-day.
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Act I

Act 1 of Henry VIII follows the arrival of the Duke of Buckingham, who is accused of treason by Cardinal Wolsey. Buckingham is sent to the Tower of London to await trial. The scene then shifts to the palace, where King Henry VIII discusses the matter with Wolsey and other advisors. They discuss the possibility of a divorce between Henry and his wife, Catherine of Aragon, as she has not borne him a son. Wolsey suggests that they seek the help of the Pope to annul the marriage, but the idea is met with resistance from the advisors.

The next scene takes place at a masquerade ball, where Anne Bullen catches the eye of the king. He becomes infatuated with her and begins to court her, despite her being a lady-in-waiting to Queen Catherine. Meanwhile, Cardinal Wolsey continues to manipulate the situation to his advantage, hoping to become the next Pope. He works to secure the support of the French and Spanish ambassadors.

The act ends with the trial of Buckingham, who proclaims his innocence but is found guilty and sentenced to death. The king is seen as hesitant to sign the execution order, but ultimately does so. The act sets up the central conflicts of the play, including the struggle for power between Wolsey and the king, the question of the divorce, and the burgeoning romance between Henry and Anne.

SCENE I. London. An ante-chamber in the palace.

Scene 1 of Act 1 of Henry VIII introduces the arrival of the Duke of Buckingham. He is met by the Lord Chamberlain, who informs him that he has been summoned to appear before Cardinal Wolsey and the king's council. Buckingham is confused as to why he has been summoned and fears that he may be in trouble. The Lord Chamberlain assures him that he has nothing to fear as the council only wishes to question him about certain rumors that have been circulating about him.

Despite the Lord Chamberlain's reassurances, Buckingham is still uneasy about the situation and expresses his concerns to his servant. He worries that he may have unwittingly offended the king or Cardinal Wolsey and that this is why he has been summoned. His servant tries to calm him down and advises him to speak the truth when he appears before the council.

The scene ends with the arrival of Cardinal Wolsey, who greets Buckingham and invites him to follow him to the council chamber. Buckingham is still nervous, but agrees to go with him. The Lord Chamberlain and Buckingham's servant exit, leaving Wolsey and Buckingham alone on stage. Wolsey expresses his concerns about Buckingham to the audience, suggesting that he may be plotting against the king and that the council needs to investigate him further.

Enter NORFOLK at one door; at the other, BUCKINGHAM and ABERGAVENNY

BUCKINGHAM
Good morrow, and well met. How have ye done
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Since last we saw in France?
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NORFOLK
I thank your grace,
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Healthful; and ever since a fresh admirer
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Of what I saw there.
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BUCKINGHAM
An untimely ague
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Stay'd me a prisoner in my chamber when
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Those suns of glory, those two lights of men,
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Met in the vale of Andren.
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NORFOLK
'Twixt Guynes and Arde:
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I was then present, saw them salute on horseback;
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Beheld them, when they lighted, how they clung
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In their embracement, as they grew together;
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Which had they, what four throned ones could have weigh'd
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Such a compounded one?
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BUCKINGHAM
All the whole time
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I was my chamber's prisoner.
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NORFOLK
Then you lost
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The view of earthly glory: men might say,
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Till this time pomp was single, but now married
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To one above itself. Each following day
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Became the next day's master, till the last
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Made former wonders its. To-day the French,
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All clinquant, all in gold, like heathen gods,
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Shone down the English; and, to-morrow, they
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Made Britain India: every man that stood
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Show'd like a mine. Their dwarfish pages were
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As cherubins, all guilt: the madams too,
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Not used to toil, did almost sweat to bear
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The pride upon them, that their very labour
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Was to them as a painting: now this masque
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Was cried incomparable; and the ensuing night
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Made it a fool and beggar. The two kings,
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Equal in lustre, were now best, now worst,
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As presence did present them; him in eye,
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Still him in praise: and, being present both
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'Twas said they saw but one; and no discerner
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Durst wag his tongue in censure. When these suns--
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For so they phrase 'em--by their heralds challenged
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The noble spirits to arms, they did perform
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Beyond thought's compass; that former fabulous story,
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Being now seen possible enough, got credit,
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That Bevis was believed.
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BUCKINGHAM
O, you go far.
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NORFOLK
As I belong to worship and affect
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In honour honesty, the tract of every thing
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Would by a good discourser lose some life,
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Which action's self was tongue to. All was royal;
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To the disposing of it nought rebell'd.
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Order gave each thing view; the office did
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Distinctly his full function.
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BUCKINGHAM
Who did guide,
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I mean, who set the body and the limbs
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Of this great sport together, as you guess?
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NORFOLK
One, certes, that promises no element
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In such a business.
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BUCKINGHAM
I pray you, who, my lord?
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NORFOLK
All this was order'd by the good discretion
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Of the right reverend Cardinal of York.
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BUCKINGHAM
The devil speed him! no man's pie is freed
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From his ambitious finger. What had he
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To do in these fierce vanities? I wonder
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That such a keech can with his very bulk
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Take up the rays o' the beneficial sun
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And keep it from the earth.
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NORFOLK
Surely, sir,
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There's in him stuff that puts him to these ends;
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For, being not propp'd by ancestry, whose grace
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Chalks successors their way, nor call'd upon
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For high feats done to the crown; neither allied
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For eminent assistants; but, spider-like,
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Out of his self-drawing web, he gives us note,
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The force of his own merit makes his way
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A gift that heaven gives for him, which buys
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A place next to the king.
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ABERGAVENNY
I cannot tell
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What heaven hath given him,--let some graver eye
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Pierce into that; but I can see his pride
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Peep through each part of him: whence has he that,
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If not from hell? the devil is a niggard,
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Or has given all before, and he begins
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A new hell in himself.
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BUCKINGHAM
Why the devil,
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Upon this French going out, took he upon him,
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Without the privity o' the king, to appoint
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Who should attend on him? He makes up the file
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Of all the gentry; for the most part such
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To whom as great a charge as little honour
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He meant to lay upon: and his own letter,
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The honourable board of council out,
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Must fetch him in the papers.
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ABERGAVENNY
I do know
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Kinsmen of mine, three at the least, that have
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By this so sickened their estates, that never
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They shall abound as formerly.
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BUCKINGHAM
O, many
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Have broke their backs with laying manors on 'em
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For this great journey. What did this vanity
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But minister communication of
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A most poor issue?
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NORFOLK
Grievingly I think,
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The peace between the French and us not values
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The cost that did conclude it.
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BUCKINGHAM
Every man,
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After the hideous storm that follow'd, was
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A thing inspired; and, not consulting, broke
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Into a general prophecy; That this tempest,
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Dashing the garment of this peace, aboded
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The sudden breach on't.
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NORFOLK
Which is budded out;
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For France hath flaw'd the league, and hath attach'd
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Our merchants' goods at Bourdeaux.
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ABERGAVENNY
Is it therefore
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The ambassador is silenced?
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NORFOLK
Marry, is't.
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ABERGAVENNY
A proper title of a peace; and purchased
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At a superfluous rate!
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BUCKINGHAM
Why, all this business
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Our reverend cardinal carried.
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NORFOLK
Like it your grace,
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The state takes notice of the private difference
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Betwixt you and the cardinal. I advise you--
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And take it from a heart that wishes towards you
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Honour and plenteous safety--that you read
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The cardinal's malice and his potency
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Together; to consider further that
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What his high hatred would effect wants not
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A minister in his power. You know his nature,
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That he's revengeful, and I know his sword
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Hath a sharp edge: it's long and, 't may be said,
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It reaches far, and where 'twill not extend,
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Thither he darts it. Bosom up my counsel,
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You'll find it wholesome. Lo, where comes that rock
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That I advise your shunning.
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Enter CARDINAL WOLSEY, the purse borne before him, certain of the Guard, and two Secretaries with papers. CARDINAL WOLSEY in his passage fixeth his eye on BUCKINGHAM, and BUCKINGHAM on him, both full of disdain

CARDINAL WOLSEY
The Duke of Buckingham's surveyor, ha?
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Where's his examination?
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First Secretary
Here, so please you.
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CARDINAL WOLSEY
Is he in person ready?
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First Secretary
Ay, please your grace.
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CARDINAL WOLSEY
Well, we shall then know more; and Buckingham
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Shall lessen this big look.
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Exeunt CARDINAL WOLSEY and his Train

BUCKINGHAM
This butcher's cur is venom-mouth'd, and I
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Have not the power to muzzle him; therefore best
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Not wake him in his slumber. A beggar's book
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Outworths a noble's blood.
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NORFOLK
What, are you chafed?
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Ask God for temperance; that's the appliance only
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Which your disease requires.
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BUCKINGHAM
I read in's looks
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Matter against me; and his eye reviled
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Me, as his abject object: at this instant
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He bores me with some trick: he's gone to the king;
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I'll follow and outstare him.
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NORFOLK
Stay, my lord,
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And let your reason with your choler question
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What 'tis you go about: to climb steep hills
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Requires slow pace at first: anger is like
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A full-hot horse, who being allow'd his way,
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Self-mettle tires him. Not a man in England
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Can advise me like you: be to yourself
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As you would to your friend.
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BUCKINGHAM
I'll to the king;
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And from a mouth of honour quite cry down
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This Ipswich fellow's insolence; or proclaim
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There's difference in no persons.
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NORFOLK
Be advised;
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Heat not a furnace for your foe so hot
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That it do singe yourself: we may outrun,
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By violent swiftness, that which we run at,
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And lose by over-running. Know you not,
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The fire that mounts the liquor til run o'er,
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In seeming to augment it wastes it? Be advised:
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I say again, there is no English soul
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More stronger to direct you than yourself,
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If with the sap of reason you would quench,
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Or but allay, the fire of passion.
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BUCKINGHAM
I am thankful to you; and I'll go along
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By your prescription: but this top-proud fellow,
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Whom from the flow of gall I name not but
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From sincere motions, by intelligence,
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And proofs as clear as founts in July when
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We see each grain of gravel, I do know
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To be corrupt and treasonous.
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NORFOLK
Say not 'treasonous.'
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BUCKINGHAM
To the king I'll say't; and make my vouch as strong
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As shore of rock. Attend. This holy fox,
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Or wolf, or both,--for he is equal ravenous
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As he is subtle, and as prone to mischief
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As able to perform't; his mind and place
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Infecting one another, yea, reciprocally--
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Only to show his pomp as well in France
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As here at home, suggests the king our master
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To this last costly treaty, the interview,
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That swallow'd so much treasure, and like a glass
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Did break i' the rinsing.
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NORFOLK
Faith, and so it did.
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BUCKINGHAM
Pray, give me favour, sir. This cunning cardinal
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The articles o' the combination drew
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As himself pleased; and they were ratified
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As he cried 'Thus let be': to as much end
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As give a crutch to the dead: but our count-cardinal
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Has done this, and 'tis well; for worthy Wolsey,
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Who cannot err, he did it. Now this follows,--
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Which, as I take it, is a kind of puppy
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To the old dam, treason,--Charles the emperor,
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Under pretence to see the queen his aunt--
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For 'twas indeed his colour, but he came
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To whisper Wolsey,--here makes visitation:
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His fears were, that the interview betwixt
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England and France might, through their amity,
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Breed him some prejudice; for from this league
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Peep'd harms that menaced him: he privily
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Deals with our cardinal; and, as I trow,--
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Which I do well; for I am sure the emperor
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Paid ere he promised; whereby his suit was granted
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Ere it was ask'd; but when the way was made,
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And paved with gold, the emperor thus desired,
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That he would please to alter the king's course,
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And break the foresaid peace. Let the king know,
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As soon he shall by me, that thus the cardinal
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Does buy and sell his honour as he pleases,
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And for his own advantage.
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NORFOLK
I am sorry
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To hear this of him; and could wish he were
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Something mistaken in't.
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BUCKINGHAM
No, not a syllable:
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I do pronounce him in that very shape
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He shall appear in proof.
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Enter BRANDON, a Sergeant-at-arms before him, and two or three of the Guard

BRANDON
Your office, sergeant; execute it.
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Sergeant
My lord the Duke of Buckingham, and Earl
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Of Hereford, Stafford, and Northampton, I
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Arrest thee of high treason, in the name
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Of our most sovereign king.
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BUCKINGHAM
Lo, you, my lord,
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The net has fall'n upon me! I shall perish
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Under device and practise.
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BRANDON
I am sorry
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To see you ta'en from liberty, to look on
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The business present: 'tis his highness' pleasure
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You shall to the Tower.
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BUCKINGHAM
It will help me nothing
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To plead mine innocence; for that dye is on me
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Which makes my whitest part black. The will of heaven
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Be done in this and all things! I obey.
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O my Lord Abergavenny, fare you well!
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BRANDON
Nay, he must bear you company. The king
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Is pleased you shall to the Tower, till you know
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How he determines further.
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ABERGAVENNY
As the duke said,
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The will of heaven be done, and the king's pleasure
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By me obey'd!
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BRANDON
Here is a warrant from
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The king to attach Lord Montacute; and the bodies
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Of the duke's confessor, John de la Car,
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One Gilbert Peck, his chancellor--
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BUCKINGHAM
These are the limbs o' the plot: no more, I hope.
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BRANDON
A monk o' the Chartreux.
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BUCKINGHAM
O, Nicholas Hopkins?
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BRANDON

BUCKINGHAM
My surveyor is false; the o'er-great cardinal
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Hath show'd him gold; my life is spann'd already:
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I am the shadow of poor Buckingham,
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Whose figure even this instant cloud puts on,
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By darkening my clear sun. My lord, farewell.
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Exeunt

SCENE II. The same. The council-chamber.

Scene 2 of Act 1 of Henry VIII depicts a gathering of the nobility of England at the palace of Cardinal Wolsey. The purpose of this gathering is to discuss the possible war between England and France. Wolsey, who is acting as the mediator, tries to convince the Duke of Buckingham to support the war effort. However, Buckingham is not convinced and argues that the country is not ready for war and that it would be too costly.

As the conversation continues, the Duke of Norfolk enters and informs Wolsey that the King wishes to speak with him. Wolsey leaves the room, and Buckingham expresses his distrust of the Cardinal, suspecting that he is trying to gain more power and influence. Norfolk defends Wolsey, stating that he is a loyal servant of the King and that his intentions are honorable.

When Wolsey returns, he informs the assembled nobles that the King wants to meet with them. The Duke of Buckingham expresses his concerns once more, and Wolsey tries to reassure him by saying that the King only wishes to discuss matters of state. The scene ends with the nobles agreeing to meet with the King and Wolsey, and Buckingham still expressing his doubts and suspicions about the Cardinal's true motives.

Cornets. Enter KING HENRY VIII, leaning on CARDINAL WOLSEY's shoulder, the Nobles, and LOVELL; CARDINAL WOLSEY places himself under KING HENRY VIII's feet on his right side

KING HENRY VIII
My life itself, and the best heart of it,
Link: 1.2.1
Thanks you for this great care: I stood i' the level
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Of a full-charged confederacy, and give thanks
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To you that choked it. Let be call'd before us
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That gentleman of Buckingham's; in person
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I'll hear him his confessions justify;
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And point by point the treasons of his master
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He shall again relate.
Link: 1.2.8

A noise within, crying 'Room for the Queen!' Enter QUEEN KATHARINE, ushered by NORFOLK, and SUFFOLK: she kneels. KING HENRY VIII riseth from his state, takes her up, kisses and placeth her by him

QUEEN KATHARINE
Nay, we must longer kneel: I am a suitor.
Link: 1.2.9

KING HENRY VIII
Arise, and take place by us: half your suit
Link: 1.2.10
Never name to us; you have half our power:
Link: 1.2.11
The other moiety, ere you ask, is given;
Link: 1.2.12
Repeat your will and take it.
Link: 1.2.13

QUEEN KATHARINE
Thank your majesty.
Link: 1.2.14
That you would love yourself, and in that love
Link: 1.2.15
Not unconsider'd leave your honour, nor
Link: 1.2.16
The dignity of your office, is the point
Link: 1.2.17
Of my petition.
Link: 1.2.18

KING HENRY VIII
Lady mine, proceed.
Link: 1.2.19

QUEEN KATHARINE
I am solicited, not by a few,
Link: 1.2.20
And those of true condition, that your subjects
Link: 1.2.21
Are in great grievance: there have been commissions
Link: 1.2.22
Sent down among 'em, which hath flaw'd the heart
Link: 1.2.23
Of all their loyalties: wherein, although,
Link: 1.2.24
My good lord cardinal, they vent reproaches
Link: 1.2.25
Most bitterly on you, as putter on
Link: 1.2.26
Of these exactions, yet the king our master--
Link: 1.2.27
Whose honour heaven shield from soil!--even he
Link: 1.2.28
escapes not
Link: 1.2.29
Language unmannerly, yea, such which breaks
Link: 1.2.30
The sides of loyalty, and almost appears
Link: 1.2.31
In loud rebellion.
Link: 1.2.32

NORFOLK
Not almost appears,
Link: 1.2.33
It doth appear; for, upon these taxations,
Link: 1.2.34
The clothiers all, not able to maintain
Link: 1.2.35
The many to them longing, have put off
Link: 1.2.36
The spinsters, carders, fullers, weavers, who,
Link: 1.2.37
Unfit for other life, compell'd by hunger
Link: 1.2.38
And lack of other means, in desperate manner
Link: 1.2.39
Daring the event to the teeth, are all in uproar,
Link: 1.2.40
And danger serves among then!
Link: 1.2.41

KING HENRY VIII
Taxation!
Link: 1.2.42
Wherein? and what taxation? My lord cardinal,
Link: 1.2.43
You that are blamed for it alike with us,
Link: 1.2.44
Know you of this taxation?
Link: 1.2.45

CARDINAL WOLSEY
Please you, sir,
Link: 1.2.46
I know but of a single part, in aught
Link: 1.2.47
Pertains to the state; and front but in that file
Link: 1.2.48
Where others tell steps with me.
Link: 1.2.49

QUEEN KATHARINE
No, my lord,
Link: 1.2.50
You know no more than others; but you frame
Link: 1.2.51
Things that are known alike; which are not wholesome
Link: 1.2.52
To those which would not know them, and yet must
Link: 1.2.53
Perforce be their acquaintance. These exactions,
Link: 1.2.54
Whereof my sovereign would have note, they are
Link: 1.2.55
Most pestilent to the bearing; and, to bear 'em,
Link: 1.2.56
The back is sacrifice to the load. They say
Link: 1.2.57
They are devised by you; or else you suffer
Link: 1.2.58
Too hard an exclamation.
Link: 1.2.59

KING HENRY VIII
Still exaction!
Link: 1.2.60
The nature of it? in what kind, let's know,
Link: 1.2.61
Is this exaction?
Link: 1.2.62

QUEEN KATHARINE
I am much too venturous
Link: 1.2.63
In tempting of your patience; but am bolden'd
Link: 1.2.64
Under your promised pardon. The subjects' grief
Link: 1.2.65
Comes through commissions, which compel from each
Link: 1.2.66
The sixth part of his substance, to be levied
Link: 1.2.67
Without delay; and the pretence for this
Link: 1.2.68
Is named, your wars in France: this makes bold mouths:
Link: 1.2.69
Tongues spit their duties out, and cold hearts freeze
Link: 1.2.70
Allegiance in them; their curses now
Link: 1.2.71
Live where their prayers did: and it's come to pass,
Link: 1.2.72
This tractable obedience is a slave
Link: 1.2.73
To each incensed will. I would your highness
Link: 1.2.74
Would give it quick consideration, for
Link: 1.2.75
There is no primer business.
Link: 1.2.76

KING HENRY VIII
By my life,
Link: 1.2.77
This is against our pleasure.
Link: 1.2.78

CARDINAL WOLSEY
And for me,
Link: 1.2.79
I have no further gone in this than by
Link: 1.2.80
A single voice; and that not pass'd me but
Link: 1.2.81
By learned approbation of the judges. If I am
Link: 1.2.82
Traduced by ignorant tongues, which neither know
Link: 1.2.83
My faculties nor person, yet will be
Link: 1.2.84
The chronicles of my doing, let me say
Link: 1.2.85
'Tis but the fate of place, and the rough brake
Link: 1.2.86
That virtue must go through. We must not stint
Link: 1.2.87
Our necessary actions, in the fear
Link: 1.2.88
To cope malicious censurers; which ever,
Link: 1.2.89
As ravenous fishes, do a vessel follow
Link: 1.2.90
That is new-trimm'd, but benefit no further
Link: 1.2.91
Than vainly longing. What we oft do best,
Link: 1.2.92
By sick interpreters, once weak ones, is
Link: 1.2.93
Not ours, or not allow'd; what worst, as oft,
Link: 1.2.94
Hitting a grosser quality, is cried up
Link: 1.2.95
For our best act. If we shall stand still,
Link: 1.2.96
In fear our motion will be mock'd or carp'd at,
Link: 1.2.97
We should take root here where we sit, or sit
Link: 1.2.98
State-statues only.
Link: 1.2.99

KING HENRY VIII
Things done well,
Link: 1.2.100
And with a care, exempt themselves from fear;
Link: 1.2.101
Things done without example, in their issue
Link: 1.2.102
Are to be fear'd. Have you a precedent
Link: 1.2.103
Of this commission? I believe, not any.
Link: 1.2.104
We must not rend our subjects from our laws,
Link: 1.2.105
And stick them in our will. Sixth part of each?
Link: 1.2.106
A trembling contribution! Why, we take
Link: 1.2.107
From every tree lop, bark, and part o' the timber;
Link: 1.2.108
And, though we leave it with a root, thus hack'd,
Link: 1.2.109
The air will drink the sap. To every county
Link: 1.2.110
Where this is question'd send our letters, with
Link: 1.2.111
Free pardon to each man that has denied
Link: 1.2.112
The force of this commission: pray, look to't;
Link: 1.2.113
I put it to your care.
Link: 1.2.114

CARDINAL WOLSEY
A word with you.
Link: 1.2.115
Let there be letters writ to every shire,
Link: 1.2.116
Of the king's grace and pardon. The grieved commons
Link: 1.2.117
Hardly conceive of me; let it be noised
Link: 1.2.118
That through our intercession this revokement
Link: 1.2.119
And pardon comes: I shall anon advise you
Link: 1.2.120
Further in the proceeding.
Link: 1.2.121

Exit Secretary

Enter Surveyor

QUEEN KATHARINE
I am sorry that the Duke of Buckingham
Link: 1.2.122
Is run in your displeasure.
Link: 1.2.123

KING HENRY VIII
It grieves many:
Link: 1.2.124
The gentleman is learn'd, and a most rare speaker;
Link: 1.2.125
To nature none more bound; his training such,
Link: 1.2.126
That he may furnish and instruct great teachers,
Link: 1.2.127
And never seek for aid out of himself. Yet see,
Link: 1.2.128
When these so noble benefits shall prove
Link: 1.2.129
Not well disposed, the mind growing once corrupt,
Link: 1.2.130
They turn to vicious forms, ten times more ugly
Link: 1.2.131
Than ever they were fair. This man so complete,
Link: 1.2.132
Who was enroll'd 'mongst wonders, and when we,
Link: 1.2.133
Almost with ravish'd listening, could not find
Link: 1.2.134
His hour of speech a minute; he, my lady,
Link: 1.2.135
Hath into monstrous habits put the graces
Link: 1.2.136
That once were his, and is become as black
Link: 1.2.137
As if besmear'd in hell. Sit by us; you shall hear--
Link: 1.2.138
This was his gentleman in trust--of him
Link: 1.2.139
Things to strike honour sad. Bid him recount
Link: 1.2.140
The fore-recited practises; whereof
Link: 1.2.141
We cannot feel too little, hear too much.
Link: 1.2.142

CARDINAL WOLSEY
Stand forth, and with bold spirit relate what you,
Link: 1.2.143
Most like a careful subject, have collected
Link: 1.2.144
Out of the Duke of Buckingham.
Link: 1.2.145

KING HENRY VIII
Speak freely.
Link: 1.2.146

Surveyor
First, it was usual with him, every day
Link: 1.2.147
It would infect his speech, that if the king
Link: 1.2.148
Should without issue die, he'll carry it so
Link: 1.2.149
To make the sceptre his: these very words
Link: 1.2.150
I've heard him utter to his son-in-law,
Link: 1.2.151
Lord Abergavenny; to whom by oath he menaced
Link: 1.2.152
Revenge upon the cardinal.
Link: 1.2.153

CARDINAL WOLSEY
Please your highness, note
Link: 1.2.154
This dangerous conception in this point.
Link: 1.2.155
Not friended by by his wish, to your high person
Link: 1.2.156
His will is most malignant; and it stretches
Link: 1.2.157
Beyond you, to your friends.
Link: 1.2.158

QUEEN KATHARINE
My learn'd lord cardinal,
Link: 1.2.159
Deliver all with charity.
Link: 1.2.160

KING HENRY VIII
Speak on:
Link: 1.2.161
How grounded he his title to the crown,
Link: 1.2.162
Upon our fail? to this point hast thou heard him
Link: 1.2.163
At any time speak aught?
Link: 1.2.164

Surveyor
He was brought to this
Link: 1.2.165
By a vain prophecy of Nicholas Hopkins.
Link: 1.2.166

KING HENRY VIII
What was that Hopkins?
Link: 1.2.167

Surveyor
Sir, a Chartreux friar,
Link: 1.2.168
His confessor, who fed him every minute
Link: 1.2.169
With words of sovereignty.
Link: 1.2.170

KING HENRY VIII
How know'st thou this?
Link: 1.2.171

Surveyor
Not long before your highness sped to France,
Link: 1.2.172
The duke being at the Rose, within the parish
Link: 1.2.173
Saint Lawrence Poultney, did of me demand
Link: 1.2.174
What was the speech among the Londoners
Link: 1.2.175
Concerning the French journey: I replied,
Link: 1.2.176
Men fear'd the French would prove perfidious,
Link: 1.2.177
To the king's danger. Presently the duke
Link: 1.2.178
Said, 'twas the fear, indeed; and that he doubted
Link: 1.2.179
'Twould prove the verity of certain words
Link: 1.2.180
Spoke by a holy monk; 'that oft,' says he,
Link: 1.2.181
'Hath sent to me, wishing me to permit
Link: 1.2.182
John de la Car, my chaplain, a choice hour
Link: 1.2.183
To hear from him a matter of some moment:
Link: 1.2.184
Whom after under the confession's seal
Link: 1.2.185
He solemnly had sworn, that what he spoke
Link: 1.2.186
My chaplain to no creature living, but
Link: 1.2.187
To me, should utter, with demure confidence
Link: 1.2.188
This pausingly ensued: neither the king nor's heirs,
Link: 1.2.189
Tell you the duke, shall prosper: bid him strive
Link: 1.2.190
To gain the love o' the commonalty: the duke
Link: 1.2.191
Shall govern England.'
Link: 1.2.192

QUEEN KATHARINE
If I know you well,
Link: 1.2.193
You were the duke's surveyor, and lost your office
Link: 1.2.194
On the complaint o' the tenants: take good heed
Link: 1.2.195
You charge not in your spleen a noble person
Link: 1.2.196
And spoil your nobler soul: I say, take heed;
Link: 1.2.197
Yes, heartily beseech you.
Link: 1.2.198

KING HENRY VIII
Let him on.
Link: 1.2.199
Go forward.
Link: 1.2.200

Surveyor
On my soul, I'll speak but truth.
Link: 1.2.201
I told my lord the duke, by the devil's illusions
Link: 1.2.202
The monk might be deceived; and that 'twas dangerous for him
Link: 1.2.203
To ruminate on this so far, until
Link: 1.2.204
It forged him some design, which, being believed,
Link: 1.2.205
It was much like to do: he answer'd, 'Tush,
Link: 1.2.206
It can do me no damage;' adding further,
Link: 1.2.207
That, had the king in his last sickness fail'd,
Link: 1.2.208
The cardinal's and Sir Thomas Lovell's heads
Link: 1.2.209
Should have gone off.
Link: 1.2.210

KING HENRY VIII
Ha! what, so rank? Ah ha!
Link: 1.2.211
There's mischief in this man: canst thou say further?
Link: 1.2.212

Surveyor
I can, my liege.
Link: 1.2.213

KING HENRY VIII
Proceed.
Link: 1.2.214

Surveyor
Being at Greenwich,
Link: 1.2.215
After your highness had reproved the duke
Link: 1.2.216
About Sir William Blomer,--
Link: 1.2.217

KING HENRY VIII
I remember
Link: 1.2.218
Of such a time: being my sworn servant,
Link: 1.2.219
The duke retain'd him his. But on; what hence?
Link: 1.2.220

Surveyor
'If,' quoth he, 'I for this had been committed,
Link: 1.2.221
As, to the Tower, I thought, I would have play'd
Link: 1.2.222
The part my father meant to act upon
Link: 1.2.223
The usurper Richard; who, being at Salisbury,
Link: 1.2.224
Made suit to come in's presence; which if granted,
Link: 1.2.225
As he made semblance of his duty, would
Link: 1.2.226
Have put his knife to him.'
Link: 1.2.227

KING HENRY VIII
A giant traitor!
Link: 1.2.228

CARDINAL WOLSEY
Now, madam, may his highness live in freedom,
Link: 1.2.229
and this man out of prison?
Link: 1.2.230

QUEEN KATHARINE
God mend all!
Link: 1.2.231

KING HENRY VIII
There's something more would out of thee; what say'st?
Link: 1.2.232

Surveyor
After 'the duke his father,' with 'the knife,'
Link: 1.2.233
He stretch'd him, and, with one hand on his dagger,
Link: 1.2.234
Another spread on's breast, mounting his eyes
Link: 1.2.235
He did discharge a horrible oath; whose tenor
Link: 1.2.236
Was,--were he evil used, he would outgo
Link: 1.2.237
His father by as much as a performance
Link: 1.2.238
Does an irresolute purpose.
Link: 1.2.239

KING HENRY VIII
There's his period,
Link: 1.2.240
To sheathe his knife in us. He is attach'd;
Link: 1.2.241
Call him to present trial: if he may
Link: 1.2.242
Find mercy in the law, 'tis his: if none,
Link: 1.2.243
Let him not seek 't of us: by day and night,
Link: 1.2.244
He's traitor to the height.
Link: 1.2.245

Exeunt

SCENE III. An ante-chamber in the palace.

Scene 3 of Act 1 of Henry VIII takes place in a council chamber where the Duke of Norfolk, the Duke of Buckingham, and Lord Abergavenny are discussing the upcoming trial of the Duke of Buckingham. They express their sympathy for him and their dislike of Cardinal Wolsey, whom they believe is responsible for the Duke's downfall.

Cardinal Wolsey enters the room and informs them that the trial will take place the next day. He assures them that justice will be served and that he has no personal vendetta against the Duke. However, the others remain suspicious of his motives and continue to criticize him.

The Duke of Norfolk and the Duke of Buckingham exchange insults, and the tension in the room increases. The Duke of Buckingham is eventually escorted out of the room, and the others discuss their plans for the future. They express their desire to see Wolsey removed from power and their hope that the King will take their side.

The scene ends with the Duke of Norfolk and Lord Abergavenny leaving the room, leaving Cardinal Wolsey alone. He reflects on his own power and the plots against him, but remains confident in his abilities to maintain control.

Enter Chamberlain and SANDS

Chamberlain
Is't possible the spells of France should juggle
Link: 1.3.1
Men into such strange mysteries?
Link: 1.3.2

SANDS
New customs,
Link: 1.3.3
Though they be never so ridiculous,
Link: 1.3.4
Nay, let 'em be unmanly, yet are follow'd.
Link: 1.3.5

Chamberlain
As far as I see, all the good our English
Link: 1.3.6
Have got by the late voyage is but merely
Link: 1.3.7
A fit or two o' the face; but they are shrewd ones;
Link: 1.3.8
For when they hold 'em, you would swear directly
Link: 1.3.9
Their very noses had been counsellors
Link: 1.3.10
To Pepin or Clotharius, they keep state so.
Link: 1.3.11

SANDS
They have all new legs, and lame ones: one would take it,
Link: 1.3.12
That never saw 'em pace before, the spavin
Link: 1.3.13
Or springhalt reign'd among 'em.
Link: 1.3.14

Chamberlain
Death! my lord,
Link: 1.3.15
Their clothes are after such a pagan cut too,
Link: 1.3.16
That, sure, they've worn out Christendom.
Link: 1.3.17
How now!
Link: 1.3.18
What news, Sir Thomas Lovell?
Link: 1.3.19

LOVELL
Faith, my lord,
Link: 1.3.20
I hear of none, but the new proclamation
Link: 1.3.21
That's clapp'd upon the court-gate.
Link: 1.3.22

Chamberlain
What is't for?
Link: 1.3.23

LOVELL
The reformation of our travell'd gallants,
Link: 1.3.24
That fill the court with quarrels, talk, and tailors.
Link: 1.3.25

Chamberlain
I'm glad 'tis there: now I would pray our monsieurs
Link: 1.3.26
To think an English courtier may be wise,
Link: 1.3.27
And never see the Louvre.
Link: 1.3.28

LOVELL
They must either,
Link: 1.3.29
For so run the conditions, leave those remnants
Link: 1.3.30
Of fool and feather that they got in France,
Link: 1.3.31
With all their honourable point of ignorance
Link: 1.3.32
Pertaining thereunto, as fights and fireworks,
Link: 1.3.33
Abusing better men than they can be,
Link: 1.3.34
Out of a foreign wisdom, renouncing clean
Link: 1.3.35
The faith they have in tennis, and tall stockings,
Link: 1.3.36
Short blister'd breeches, and those types of travel,
Link: 1.3.37
And understand again like honest men;
Link: 1.3.38
Or pack to their old playfellows: there, I take it,
Link: 1.3.39
They may, 'cum privilegio,' wear away
Link: 1.3.40
The lag end of their lewdness and be laugh'd at.
Link: 1.3.41

SANDS
'Tis time to give 'em physic, their diseases
Link: 1.3.42
Are grown so catching.
Link: 1.3.43

Chamberlain
What a loss our ladies
Link: 1.3.44
Will have of these trim vanities!
Link: 1.3.45

LOVELL
Ay, marry,
Link: 1.3.46
There will be woe indeed, lords: the sly whoresons
Link: 1.3.47
Have got a speeding trick to lay down ladies;
Link: 1.3.48
A French song and a fiddle has no fellow.
Link: 1.3.49

SANDS
The devil fiddle 'em! I am glad they are going,
Link: 1.3.50
For, sure, there's no converting of 'em: now
Link: 1.3.51
An honest country lord, as I am, beaten
Link: 1.3.52
A long time out of play, may bring his plainsong
Link: 1.3.53
And have an hour of hearing; and, by'r lady,
Link: 1.3.54
Held current music too.
Link: 1.3.55

Chamberlain
Well said, Lord Sands;
Link: 1.3.56
Your colt's tooth is not cast yet.
Link: 1.3.57

SANDS
No, my lord;
Link: 1.3.58
Nor shall not, while I have a stump.
Link: 1.3.59

Chamberlain
Sir Thomas,
Link: 1.3.60
Whither were you a-going?
Link: 1.3.61

LOVELL
To the cardinal's:
Link: 1.3.62
Your lordship is a guest too.
Link: 1.3.63

Chamberlain
O, 'tis true:
Link: 1.3.64
This night he makes a supper, and a great one,
Link: 1.3.65
To many lords and ladies; there will be
Link: 1.3.66
The beauty of this kingdom, I'll assure you.
Link: 1.3.67

LOVELL
That churchman bears a bounteous mind indeed,
Link: 1.3.68
A hand as fruitful as the land that feeds us;
Link: 1.3.69
His dews fall every where.
Link: 1.3.70

Chamberlain
No doubt he's noble;
Link: 1.3.71
He had a black mouth that said other of him.
Link: 1.3.72

SANDS
He may, my lord; has wherewithal: in him
Link: 1.3.73
Sparing would show a worse sin than ill doctrine:
Link: 1.3.74
Men of his way should be most liberal;
Link: 1.3.75
They are set here for examples.
Link: 1.3.76

Chamberlain
True, they are so:
Link: 1.3.77
But few now give so great ones. My barge stays;
Link: 1.3.78
Your lordship shall along. Come, good Sir Thomas,
Link: 1.3.79
We shall be late else; which I would not be,
Link: 1.3.80
For I was spoke to, with Sir Henry Guildford
Link: 1.3.81
This night to be comptrollers.
Link: 1.3.82

SANDS
I am your lordship's.
Link: 1.3.83

Exeunt

SCENE IV. A Hall in York Place.

Scene 4 of Act 1 takes place in the palace of Cardinal Wolsey. The Duke of Buckingham is brought before Wolsey, who accuses him of treasonous activities against the king. Buckingham denies the accusations and demands a fair trial, but Wolsey manipulates the situation to ensure that Buckingham is found guilty.

As the scene progresses, Buckingham's fate becomes increasingly evident. Wolsey convinces the king to sign a warrant for Buckingham's arrest and trial, and the Duke is led away to the Tower of London. Wolsey revels in his victory, but is also concerned about the potential backlash from the people, who hold Buckingham in high regard.

The scene is full of political intrigue and manipulation. Wolsey is portrayed as a scheming and power-hungry figure, willing to do whatever it takes to maintain his position at court. Buckingham, on the other hand, is a noble and honorable character who is ultimately betrayed by those around him.

The themes of justice, power, and loyalty are all explored in this scene. The characters' actions and motivations are complex and multi-layered, making for a gripping and thought-provoking piece of drama.

Hautboys. A small table under a state for CARDINAL WOLSEY, a longer table for the guests. Then enter ANNE and divers other Ladies and Gentlemen as guests, at one door; at another door, enter GUILDFORD

GUILDFORD
Ladies, a general welcome from his grace
Link: 1.4.1
Salutes ye all; this night he dedicates
Link: 1.4.2
To fair content and you: none here, he hopes,
Link: 1.4.3
In all this noble bevy, has brought with her
Link: 1.4.4
One care abroad; he would have all as merry
Link: 1.4.5
As, first, good company, good wine, good welcome,
Link: 1.4.6
Can make good people. O, my lord, you're tardy:
Link: 1.4.7
The very thought of this fair company
Link: 1.4.8
Clapp'd wings to me.
Link: 1.4.9

Chamberlain
You are young, Sir Harry Guildford.
Link: 1.4.10

SANDS
Sir Thomas Lovell, had the cardinal
Link: 1.4.11
But half my lay thoughts in him, some of these
Link: 1.4.12
Should find a running banquet ere they rested,
Link: 1.4.13
I think would better please 'em: by my life,
Link: 1.4.14
They are a sweet society of fair ones.
Link: 1.4.15

LOVELL
O, that your lordship were but now confessor
Link: 1.4.16
To one or two of these!
Link: 1.4.17

SANDS
I would I were;
Link: 1.4.18
They should find easy penance.
Link: 1.4.19

LOVELL
Faith, how easy?
Link: 1.4.20

SANDS
As easy as a down-bed would afford it.
Link: 1.4.21

Chamberlain
Sweet ladies, will it please you sit? Sir Harry,
Link: 1.4.22
Place you that side; I'll take the charge of this:
Link: 1.4.23
His grace is entering. Nay, you must not freeze;
Link: 1.4.24
Two women placed together makes cold weather:
Link: 1.4.25
My Lord Sands, you are one will keep 'em waking;
Link: 1.4.26
Pray, sit between these ladies.
Link: 1.4.27

SANDS
By my faith,
Link: 1.4.28
And thank your lordship. By your leave, sweet ladies:
Link: 1.4.29
If I chance to talk a little wild, forgive me;
Link: 1.4.30
I had it from my father.
Link: 1.4.31

ANNE
Was he mad, sir?
Link: 1.4.32

SANDS
O, very mad, exceeding mad, in love too:
Link: 1.4.33
But he would bite none; just as I do now,
Link: 1.4.34
He would kiss you twenty with a breath.
Link: 1.4.35

Kisses her

Chamberlain
Well said, my lord.
Link: 1.4.36
So, now you're fairly seated. Gentlemen,
Link: 1.4.37
The penance lies on you, if these fair ladies
Link: 1.4.38
Pass away frowning.
Link: 1.4.39

SANDS
For my little cure,
Link: 1.4.40
Let me alone.
Link: 1.4.41

Hautboys. Enter CARDINAL WOLSEY, and takes his state

CARDINAL WOLSEY
You're welcome, my fair guests: that noble lady,
Link: 1.4.42
Or gentleman, that is not freely merry,
Link: 1.4.43
Is not my friend: this, to confirm my welcome;
Link: 1.4.44
And to you all, good health.
Link: 1.4.45

Drinks

SANDS
Your grace is noble:
Link: 1.4.46
Let me have such a bowl may hold my thanks,
Link: 1.4.47
And save me so much talking.
Link: 1.4.48

CARDINAL WOLSEY
My Lord Sands,
Link: 1.4.49
I am beholding to you: cheer your neighbours.
Link: 1.4.50
Ladies, you are not merry: gentlemen,
Link: 1.4.51
Whose fault is this?
Link: 1.4.52

SANDS
The red wine first must rise
Link: 1.4.53
In their fair cheeks, my lord; then we shall have 'em
Link: 1.4.54
Talk us to silence.
Link: 1.4.55

ANNE
You are a merry gamester,
Link: 1.4.56
My Lord Sands.
Link: 1.4.57

SANDS
Yes, if I make my play.
Link: 1.4.58
Here's to your ladyship: and pledge it, madam,
Link: 1.4.59
For 'tis to such a thing,--
Link: 1.4.60

ANNE
You cannot show me.
Link: 1.4.61

SANDS
I told your grace they would talk anon.
Link: 1.4.62

Drum and trumpet, chambers discharged

CARDINAL WOLSEY
What's that?
Link: 1.4.63

Chamberlain
Look out there, some of ye.
Link: 1.4.64

Exit Servant

CARDINAL WOLSEY
What warlike voice,
Link: 1.4.65
And to what end is this? Nay, ladies, fear not;
Link: 1.4.66
By all the laws of war you're privileged.
Link: 1.4.67

Re-enter Servant

Chamberlain
How now! what is't?
Link: 1.4.68

Servant
A noble troop of strangers;
Link: 1.4.69
For so they seem: they've left their barge and landed;
Link: 1.4.70
And hither make, as great ambassadors
Link: 1.4.71
From foreign princes.
Link: 1.4.72

CARDINAL WOLSEY
Good lord chamberlain,
Link: 1.4.73
Go, give 'em welcome; you can speak the French tongue;
Link: 1.4.74
And, pray, receive 'em nobly, and conduct 'em
Link: 1.4.75
Into our presence, where this heaven of beauty
Link: 1.4.76
Shall shine at full upon them. Some attend him.
Link: 1.4.77
You have now a broken banquet; but we'll mend it.
Link: 1.4.78
A good digestion to you all: and once more
Link: 1.4.79
I shower a welcome on ye; welcome all.
Link: 1.4.80
A noble company! what are their pleasures?
Link: 1.4.81

Chamberlain
Because they speak no English, thus they pray'd
Link: 1.4.82
To tell your grace, that, having heard by fame
Link: 1.4.83
Of this so noble and so fair assembly
Link: 1.4.84
This night to meet here, they could do no less
Link: 1.4.85
Out of the great respect they bear to beauty,
Link: 1.4.86
But leave their flocks; and, under your fair conduct,
Link: 1.4.87
Crave leave to view these ladies and entreat
Link: 1.4.88
An hour of revels with 'em.
Link: 1.4.89

CARDINAL WOLSEY
Say, lord chamberlain,
Link: 1.4.90
They have done my poor house grace; for which I pay 'em
Link: 1.4.91
A thousand thanks, and pray 'em take their pleasures.
Link: 1.4.92

They choose Ladies for the dance. KING HENRY VIII chooses ANNE

KING HENRY VIII
The fairest hand I ever touch'd! O beauty,
Link: 1.4.93
Till now I never knew thee!
Link: 1.4.94

Music. Dance

CARDINAL WOLSEY
My lord!
Link: 1.4.95

Chamberlain
Your grace?
Link: 1.4.96

CARDINAL WOLSEY
Pray, tell 'em thus much from me:
Link: 1.4.97
There should be one amongst 'em, by his person,
Link: 1.4.98
More worthy this place than myself; to whom,
Link: 1.4.99
If I but knew him, with my love and duty
Link: 1.4.100
I would surrender it.
Link: 1.4.101

Chamberlain
I will, my lord.
Link: 1.4.102

Whispers the Masquers

CARDINAL WOLSEY
What say they?
Link: 1.4.103

Chamberlain
Such a one, they all confess,
Link: 1.4.104
There is indeed; which they would have your grace
Link: 1.4.105
Find out, and he will take it.
Link: 1.4.106

CARDINAL WOLSEY
Let me see, then.
Link: 1.4.107
By all your good leaves, gentlemen; here I'll make
Link: 1.4.108
My royal choice.
Link: 1.4.109

KING HENRY VIII
Ye have found him, cardinal:
Link: 1.4.110
You hold a fair assembly; you do well, lord:
Link: 1.4.111
You are a churchman, or, I'll tell you, cardinal,
Link: 1.4.112
I should judge now unhappily.
Link: 1.4.113

CARDINAL WOLSEY
I am glad
Link: 1.4.114
Your grace is grown so pleasant.
Link: 1.4.115

KING HENRY VIII
My lord chamberlain,
Link: 1.4.116
Prithee, come hither: what fair lady's that?
Link: 1.4.117

Chamberlain
An't please your grace, Sir Thomas Bullen's daughter--
Link: 1.4.118
The Viscount Rochford,--one of her highness' women.
Link: 1.4.119

KING HENRY VIII
By heaven, she is a dainty one. Sweetheart,
Link: 1.4.120
I were unmannerly, to take you out,
Link: 1.4.121
And not to kiss you. A health, gentlemen!
Link: 1.4.122
Let it go round.
Link: 1.4.123

CARDINAL WOLSEY
Sir Thomas Lovell, is the banquet ready
Link: 1.4.124
I' the privy chamber?
Link: 1.4.125

LOVELL
Yes, my lord.
Link: 1.4.126

CARDINAL WOLSEY
Your grace,
Link: 1.4.127
I fear, with dancing is a little heated.
Link: 1.4.128

KING HENRY VIII
I fear, too much.
Link: 1.4.129

CARDINAL WOLSEY
There's fresher air, my lord,
Link: 1.4.130
In the next chamber.
Link: 1.4.131

KING HENRY VIII
Lead in your ladies, every one: sweet partner,
Link: 1.4.132
I must not yet forsake you: let's be merry:
Link: 1.4.133
Good my lord cardinal, I have half a dozen healths
Link: 1.4.134
To drink to these fair ladies, and a measure
Link: 1.4.135
To lead 'em once again; and then let's dream
Link: 1.4.136
Who's best in favour. Let the music knock it.
Link: 1.4.137

Exeunt with trumpets

Act II

Act 2 of Henry VIII is primarily concerned with the political maneuverings surrounding the King's divorce from his first wife, Queen Katherine, and his subsequent marriage to Anne Boleyn. The act opens with a conversation between the Duke of Norfolk and the Duke of Buckingham, in which they discuss the political implications of the King's decision to divorce Katherine. Buckingham is opposed to the divorce and warns Norfolk of the danger of going against the will of the people.

Meanwhile, Cardinal Wolsey, the King's chief advisor, is scheming to maintain his own power and influence in the face of the changing political landscape. He convinces the King to send him to Rome to petition the Pope to grant the divorce, hoping to curry favor with the King and secure his own position. However, the Pope refuses to grant the divorce, and Wolsey's plan backfires.

At the same time, Anne Boleyn begins to assert her own influence over the King, further complicating the political situation. She flirts with the King and encourages his interest in her, causing tension between him and Katherine. The act ends with Katherine's defiant refusal to accept the divorce, setting the stage for the conflict to come in later acts.

SCENE I. Westminster. A street.

Scene 1 of Act 2 sees the Duke of Buckingham being arrested for high treason. He is brought before Cardinal Wolsey and the Lord Chamberlain who accuse him of plotting against the king. Buckingham denies the accusations and demands to speak with the king. Wolsey and the Chamberlain refuse his request and instead reveal that they have evidence of his treasonous activities, including letters written in his own hand.

Buckingham continues to protest his innocence but is ultimately taken away to the Tower of London. As he is led offstage, he delivers a soliloquy in which he reflects on the downfall of others who were once in positions of power and wonders if the same fate awaits him.

Meanwhile, the Earl of Surrey and the Duke of Norfolk discuss the situation and express their support for Buckingham. They believe that he has been unjustly accused and that Wolsey is behind the plot to bring him down. Surrey also expresses his romantic interest in Anne Boleyn, who he believes will soon become the king's mistress.

The scene ends with a conversation between Wolsey and the Lord Chancellor, who express their satisfaction with Buckingham's arrest and discuss how they can use the situation to further their own political ambitions. Wolsey reveals that he has a plan to convince the king to divorce his wife and marry Anne Boleyn, which he believes will strengthen his own position at court.

Enter two Gentlemen, meeting

First Gentleman
Whither away so fast?
Link: 2.1.1

Second Gentleman
O, God save ye!
Link: 2.1.2
Even to the hall, to hear what shall become
Link: 2.1.3
Of the great Duke of Buckingham.
Link: 2.1.4

First Gentleman
I'll save you
Link: 2.1.5
That labour, sir. All's now done, but the ceremony
Link: 2.1.6
Of bringing back the prisoner.
Link: 2.1.7

Second Gentleman
Were you there?
Link: 2.1.8

First Gentleman
Yes, indeed, was I.
Link: 2.1.9

Second Gentleman
Pray, speak what has happen'd.
Link: 2.1.10

First Gentleman
You may guess quickly what.
Link: 2.1.11

Second Gentleman
Is he found guilty?
Link: 2.1.12

First Gentleman
Yes, truly is he, and condemn'd upon't.
Link: 2.1.13

Second Gentleman
I am sorry for't.
Link: 2.1.14

First Gentleman
So are a number more.
Link: 2.1.15

Second Gentleman
But, pray, how pass'd it?
Link: 2.1.16

First Gentleman
I'll tell you in a little. The great duke
Link: 2.1.17
Came to the bar; where to his accusations
Link: 2.1.18
He pleaded still not guilty and alleged
Link: 2.1.19
Many sharp reasons to defeat the law.
Link: 2.1.20
The king's attorney on the contrary
Link: 2.1.21
Urged on the examinations, proofs, confessions
Link: 2.1.22
Of divers witnesses; which the duke desired
Link: 2.1.23
To have brought viva voce to his face:
Link: 2.1.24
At which appear'd against him his surveyor;
Link: 2.1.25
Sir Gilbert Peck his chancellor; and John Car,
Link: 2.1.26
Confessor to him; with that devil-monk,
Link: 2.1.27
Hopkins, that made this mischief.
Link: 2.1.28

Second Gentleman
That was he
Link: 2.1.29
That fed him with his prophecies?
Link: 2.1.30

First Gentleman
The same.
Link: 2.1.31
All these accused him strongly; which he fain
Link: 2.1.32
Would have flung from him, but, indeed, he could not:
Link: 2.1.33
And so his peers, upon this evidence,
Link: 2.1.34
Have found him guilty of high treason. Much
Link: 2.1.35
He spoke, and learnedly, for life; but all
Link: 2.1.36
Was either pitied in him or forgotten.
Link: 2.1.37

Second Gentleman
After all this, how did he bear himself?
Link: 2.1.38

First Gentleman
When he was brought again to the bar, to hear
Link: 2.1.39
His knell rung out, his judgment, he was stirr'd
Link: 2.1.40
With such an agony, he sweat extremely,
Link: 2.1.41
And something spoke in choler, ill, and hasty:
Link: 2.1.42
But he fell to himself again, and sweetly
Link: 2.1.43
In all the rest show'd a most noble patience.
Link: 2.1.44

Second Gentleman
I do not think he fears death.
Link: 2.1.45

First Gentleman
Sure, he does not:
Link: 2.1.46
He never was so womanish; the cause
Link: 2.1.47
He may a little grieve at.
Link: 2.1.48

Second Gentleman
Certainly
Link: 2.1.49
The cardinal is the end of this.
Link: 2.1.50

First Gentleman
'Tis likely,
Link: 2.1.51
By all conjectures: first, Kildare's attainder,
Link: 2.1.52
Then deputy of Ireland; who removed,
Link: 2.1.53
Earl Surrey was sent thither, and in haste too,
Link: 2.1.54
Lest he should help his father.
Link: 2.1.55

Second Gentleman
That trick of state
Link: 2.1.56
Was a deep envious one.
Link: 2.1.57

First Gentleman
At his return
Link: 2.1.58
No doubt he will requite it. This is noted,
Link: 2.1.59
And generally, whoever the king favours,
Link: 2.1.60
The cardinal instantly will find employment,
Link: 2.1.61
And far enough from court too.
Link: 2.1.62

Second Gentleman
All the commons
Link: 2.1.63
Hate him perniciously, and, o' my conscience,
Link: 2.1.64
Wish him ten fathom deep: this duke as much
Link: 2.1.65
They love and dote on; call him bounteous Buckingham,
Link: 2.1.66
The mirror of all courtesy;--
Link: 2.1.67

First Gentleman
Stay there, sir,
Link: 2.1.68
And see the noble ruin'd man you speak of.
Link: 2.1.69

Enter BUCKINGHAM from his arraignment; tip-staves before him; the axe with the edge towards him; halberds on each side: accompanied with LOVELL, VAUX, SANDS, and common people

Second Gentleman
Let's stand close, and behold him.
Link: 2.1.70

BUCKINGHAM
All good people,
Link: 2.1.71
You that thus far have come to pity me,
Link: 2.1.72
Hear what I say, and then go home and lose me.
Link: 2.1.73
I have this day received a traitor's judgment,
Link: 2.1.74
And by that name must die: yet, heaven bear witness,
Link: 2.1.75
And if I have a conscience, let it sink me,
Link: 2.1.76
Even as the axe falls, if I be not faithful!
Link: 2.1.77
The law I bear no malice for my death;
Link: 2.1.78
'T has done, upon the premises, but justice:
Link: 2.1.79
But those that sought it I could wish more Christians:
Link: 2.1.80
Be what they will, I heartily forgive 'em:
Link: 2.1.81
Yet let 'em look they glory not in mischief,
Link: 2.1.82
Nor build their evils on the graves of great men;
Link: 2.1.83
For then my guiltless blood must cry against 'em.
Link: 2.1.84
For further life in this world I ne'er hope,
Link: 2.1.85
Nor will I sue, although the king have mercies
Link: 2.1.86
More than I dare make faults. You few that loved me,
Link: 2.1.87
And dare be bold to weep for Buckingham,
Link: 2.1.88
His noble friends and fellows, whom to leave
Link: 2.1.89
Is only bitter to him, only dying,
Link: 2.1.90
Go with me, like good angels, to my end;
Link: 2.1.91
And, as the long divorce of steel falls on me,
Link: 2.1.92
Make of your prayers one sweet sacrifice,
Link: 2.1.93
And lift my soul to heaven. Lead on, o' God's name.
Link: 2.1.94

LOVELL
I do beseech your grace, for charity,
Link: 2.1.95
If ever any malice in your heart
Link: 2.1.96
Were hid against me, now to forgive me frankly.
Link: 2.1.97

BUCKINGHAM
Sir Thomas Lovell, I as free forgive you
Link: 2.1.98
As I would be forgiven: I forgive all;
Link: 2.1.99
There cannot be those numberless offences
Link: 2.1.100
'Gainst me, that I cannot take peace with:
Link: 2.1.101
no black envy
Link: 2.1.102
Shall mark my grave. Commend me to his grace;
Link: 2.1.103
And if he speak of Buckingham, pray, tell him
Link: 2.1.104
You met him half in heaven: my vows and prayers
Link: 2.1.105
Yet are the king's; and, till my soul forsake,
Link: 2.1.106
Shall cry for blessings on him: may he live
Link: 2.1.107
Longer than I have time to tell his years!
Link: 2.1.108
Ever beloved and loving may his rule be!
Link: 2.1.109
And when old time shall lead him to his end,
Link: 2.1.110
Goodness and he fill up one monument!
Link: 2.1.111

LOVELL
To the water side I must conduct your grace;
Link: 2.1.112
Then give my charge up to Sir Nicholas Vaux,
Link: 2.1.113
Who undertakes you to your end.
Link: 2.1.114

VAUX
Prepare there,
Link: 2.1.115
The duke is coming: see the barge be ready;
Link: 2.1.116
And fit it with such furniture as suits
Link: 2.1.117
The greatness of his person.
Link: 2.1.118

BUCKINGHAM
Nay, Sir Nicholas,
Link: 2.1.119
Let it alone; my state now will but mock me.
Link: 2.1.120
When I came hither, I was lord high constable
Link: 2.1.121
And Duke of Buckingham; now, poor Edward Bohun:
Link: 2.1.122
Yet I am richer than my base accusers,
Link: 2.1.123
That never knew what truth meant: I now seal it;
Link: 2.1.124
And with that blood will make 'em one day groan for't.
Link: 2.1.125
My noble father, Henry of Buckingham,
Link: 2.1.126
Who first raised head against usurping Richard,
Link: 2.1.127
Flying for succor to his servant Banister,
Link: 2.1.128
Being distress'd, was by that wretch betray'd,
Link: 2.1.129
And without trial fell; God's peace be with him!
Link: 2.1.130
Henry the Seventh succeeding, truly pitying
Link: 2.1.131
My father's loss, like a most royal prince,
Link: 2.1.132
Restored me to my honours, and, out of ruins,
Link: 2.1.133
Made my name once more noble. Now his son,
Link: 2.1.134
Henry the Eighth, life, honour, name and all
Link: 2.1.135
That made me happy at one stroke has taken
Link: 2.1.136
For ever from the world. I had my trial,
Link: 2.1.137
And, must needs say, a noble one; which makes me,
Link: 2.1.138
A little happier than my wretched father:
Link: 2.1.139
Yet thus far we are one in fortunes: both
Link: 2.1.140
Fell by our servants, by those men we loved most;
Link: 2.1.141
A most unnatural and faithless service!
Link: 2.1.142
Heaven has an end in all: yet, you that hear me,
Link: 2.1.143
This from a dying man receive as certain:
Link: 2.1.144
Where you are liberal of your loves and counsels
Link: 2.1.145
Be sure you be not loose; for those you make friends
Link: 2.1.146
And give your hearts to, when they once perceive
Link: 2.1.147
The least rub in your fortunes, fall away
Link: 2.1.148
Like water from ye, never found again
Link: 2.1.149
But where they mean to sink ye. All good people,
Link: 2.1.150
Pray for me! I must now forsake ye: the last hour
Link: 2.1.151
Of my long weary life is come upon me. Farewell:
Link: 2.1.152
And when you would say something that is sad,
Link: 2.1.153
Speak how I fell. I have done; and God forgive me!
Link: 2.1.154

Exeunt BUCKINGHAM and Train

First Gentleman
O, this is full of pity! Sir, it calls,
Link: 2.1.155
I fear, too many curses on their beads
Link: 2.1.156
That were the authors.
Link: 2.1.157

Second Gentleman
If the duke be guiltless,
Link: 2.1.158
'Tis full of woe: yet I can give you inkling
Link: 2.1.159
Of an ensuing evil, if it fall,
Link: 2.1.160
Greater than this.
Link: 2.1.161

First Gentleman
Good angels keep it from us!
Link: 2.1.162
What may it be? You do not doubt my faith, sir?
Link: 2.1.163

Second Gentleman
This secret is so weighty, 'twill require
Link: 2.1.164
A strong faith to conceal it.
Link: 2.1.165

First Gentleman
Let me have it;
Link: 2.1.166
I do not talk much.
Link: 2.1.167

Second Gentleman
I am confident,
Link: 2.1.168
You shall, sir: did you not of late days hear
Link: 2.1.169
A buzzing of a separation
Link: 2.1.170
Between the king and Katharine?
Link: 2.1.171

First Gentleman
Yes, but it held not:
Link: 2.1.172
For when the king once heard it, out of anger
Link: 2.1.173
He sent command to the lord mayor straight
Link: 2.1.174
To stop the rumor, and allay those tongues
Link: 2.1.175
That durst disperse it.
Link: 2.1.176

Second Gentleman
But that slander, sir,
Link: 2.1.177
Is found a truth now: for it grows again
Link: 2.1.178
Fresher than e'er it was; and held for certain
Link: 2.1.179
The king will venture at it. Either the cardinal,
Link: 2.1.180
Or some about him near, have, out of malice
Link: 2.1.181
To the good queen, possess'd him with a scruple
Link: 2.1.182
That will undo her: to confirm this too,
Link: 2.1.183
Cardinal Campeius is arrived, and lately;
Link: 2.1.184
As all think, for this business.
Link: 2.1.185

First Gentleman
'Tis the cardinal;
Link: 2.1.186
And merely to revenge him on the emperor
Link: 2.1.187
For not bestowing on him, at his asking,
Link: 2.1.188
The archbishopric of Toledo, this is purposed.
Link: 2.1.189

Second Gentleman
I think you have hit the mark: but is't not cruel
Link: 2.1.190
That she should feel the smart of this? The cardinal
Link: 2.1.191
Will have his will, and she must fall.
Link: 2.1.192

First Gentleman
'Tis woful.
Link: 2.1.193
We are too open here to argue this;
Link: 2.1.194
Let's think in private more.
Link: 2.1.195

Exeunt

SCENE II. An ante-chamber in the palace.

Scene 2 of Act 2 of Henry VIII begins with the entrance of Cardinal Wolsey's servants, Cromwell and Griffith. The two men discuss the Cardinal's recent fall from grace and the various accusations that have been made against him. Cromwell points out that the Cardinal's enemies are powerful and numerous, and that he is unlikely to be able to defend himself against their attacks.

Griffith expresses sympathy for the Cardinal but also acknowledges that he may have brought some of his problems upon himself. He notes that the Cardinal's extravagant lifestyle and love of luxury have made him many enemies among the common people and the nobility alike.

As the two men continue to talk, they are interrupted by the entrance of the Duke of Buckingham. Buckingham is also a powerful and influential figure at court, but he has fallen out of favor with the King and is now under suspicion of treason. He tells Cromwell and Griffith that he has been arrested and brought before the King, who has accused him of plotting against him.

Buckingham insists that he is innocent of any wrongdoing and begs the two men to intercede on his behalf with the King. Cromwell and Griffith promise to do what they can to help him, but they also warn him that his situation is perilous and that he should be careful not to say or do anything that might make his situation worse.

The scene ends with Buckingham expressing his gratitude to the two men and making plans to flee the country if he is unable to clear his name.

Enter Chamberlain, reading a letter

Chamberlain
'My lord, the horses your lordship sent for, with
Link: 2.2.1
all the care I had, I saw well chosen, ridden, and
Link: 2.2.2
furnished. They were young and handsome, and of the
Link: 2.2.3
best breed in the north. When they were ready to
Link: 2.2.4
set out for London, a man of my lord cardinal's, by
Link: 2.2.5
commission and main power, took 'em from me; with
Link: 2.2.6
this reason: His master would be served before a
Link: 2.2.7
subject, if not before the king; which stopped our
Link: 2.2.8
mouths, sir.'
Link: 2.2.9
I fear he will indeed: well, let him have them:
Link: 2.2.10
He will have all, I think.
Link: 2.2.11

Enter, to Chamberlain, NORFOLK and SUFFOLK

NORFOLK
Well met, my lord chamberlain.
Link: 2.2.12

Chamberlain
Good day to both your graces.
Link: 2.2.13

SUFFOLK
How is the king employ'd?
Link: 2.2.14

Chamberlain
I left him private,
Link: 2.2.15
Full of sad thoughts and troubles.
Link: 2.2.16

NORFOLK
What's the cause?
Link: 2.2.17

Chamberlain
It seems the marriage with his brother's wife
Link: 2.2.18
Has crept too near his conscience.
Link: 2.2.19

SUFFOLK
No, his conscience
Link: 2.2.20
Has crept too near another lady.
Link: 2.2.21

NORFOLK
'Tis so:
Link: 2.2.22
This is the cardinal's doing, the king-cardinal:
Link: 2.2.23
That blind priest, like the eldest son of fortune,
Link: 2.2.24
Turns what he list. The king will know him one day.
Link: 2.2.25

SUFFOLK
Pray God he do! he'll never know himself else.
Link: 2.2.26

NORFOLK
How holily he works in all his business!
Link: 2.2.27
And with what zeal! for, now he has crack'd the league
Link: 2.2.28
Between us and the emperor, the queen's great nephew,
Link: 2.2.29
He dives into the king's soul, and there scatters
Link: 2.2.30
Dangers, doubts, wringing of the conscience,
Link: 2.2.31
Fears, and despairs; and all these for his marriage:
Link: 2.2.32
And out of all these to restore the king,
Link: 2.2.33
He counsels a divorce; a loss of her
Link: 2.2.34
That, like a jewel, has hung twenty years
Link: 2.2.35
About his neck, yet never lost her lustre;
Link: 2.2.36
Of her that loves him with that excellence
Link: 2.2.37
That angels love good men with; even of her
Link: 2.2.38
That, when the greatest stroke of fortune falls,
Link: 2.2.39
Will bless the king: and is not this course pious?
Link: 2.2.40

Chamberlain
Heaven keep me from such counsel! 'Tis most true
Link: 2.2.41
These news are every where; every tongue speaks 'em,
Link: 2.2.42
And every true heart weeps for't: all that dare
Link: 2.2.43
Look into these affairs see this main end,
Link: 2.2.44
The French king's sister. Heaven will one day open
Link: 2.2.45
The king's eyes, that so long have slept upon
Link: 2.2.46
This bold bad man.
Link: 2.2.47

SUFFOLK
And free us from his slavery.
Link: 2.2.48

NORFOLK
We had need pray,
Link: 2.2.49
And heartily, for our deliverance;
Link: 2.2.50
Or this imperious man will work us all
Link: 2.2.51
From princes into pages: all men's honours
Link: 2.2.52
Lie like one lump before him, to be fashion'd
Link: 2.2.53
Into what pitch he please.
Link: 2.2.54

SUFFOLK
For me, my lords,
Link: 2.2.55
I love him not, nor fear him; there's my creed:
Link: 2.2.56
As I am made without him, so I'll stand,
Link: 2.2.57
If the king please; his curses and his blessings
Link: 2.2.58
Touch me alike, they're breath I not believe in.
Link: 2.2.59
I knew him, and I know him; so I leave him
Link: 2.2.60
To him that made him proud, the pope.
Link: 2.2.61

NORFOLK
Let's in;
Link: 2.2.62
And with some other business put the king
Link: 2.2.63
From these sad thoughts, that work too much upon him:
Link: 2.2.64
My lord, you'll bear us company?
Link: 2.2.65

Chamberlain
Excuse me;
Link: 2.2.66
The king has sent me otherwhere: besides,
Link: 2.2.67
You'll find a most unfit time to disturb him:
Link: 2.2.68
Health to your lordships.
Link: 2.2.69

NORFOLK
Thanks, my good lord chamberlain.
Link: 2.2.70

Exit Chamberlain; and KING HENRY VIII draws the curtain, and sits reading pensively

SUFFOLK
How sad he looks! sure, he is much afflicted.
Link: 2.2.71

KING HENRY VIII
Who's there, ha?
Link: 2.2.72

NORFOLK
Pray God he be not angry.
Link: 2.2.73

KING HENRY VIII
Who's there, I say? How dare you thrust yourselves
Link: 2.2.74
Into my private meditations?
Link: 2.2.75
Who am I? ha?
Link: 2.2.76

NORFOLK
A gracious king that pardons all offences
Link: 2.2.77
Malice ne'er meant: our breach of duty this way
Link: 2.2.78
Is business of estate; in which we come
Link: 2.2.79
To know your royal pleasure.
Link: 2.2.80

KING HENRY VIII
Ye are too bold:
Link: 2.2.81
Go to; I'll make ye know your times of business:
Link: 2.2.82
Is this an hour for temporal affairs, ha?
Link: 2.2.83
Who's there? my good lord cardinal? O my Wolsey,
Link: 2.2.84
The quiet of my wounded conscience;
Link: 2.2.85
Thou art a cure fit for a king.
Link: 2.2.86
You're welcome,
Link: 2.2.87
Most learned reverend sir, into our kingdom:
Link: 2.2.88
Use us and it.
Link: 2.2.89
My good lord, have great care
Link: 2.2.90
I be not found a talker.
Link: 2.2.91

CARDINAL WOLSEY
Sir, you cannot.
Link: 2.2.92
I would your grace would give us but an hour
Link: 2.2.93
Of private conference.
Link: 2.2.94

KING HENRY VIII
(To NORFOLK and SUFFOLK)
Link: 2.2.95
We are busy; go.
Link: 2.2.96

NORFOLK
(Aside to SUFFOLK)
Link: 2.2.97
This priest has no pride in him?
Link: 2.2.98

SUFFOLK
(Aside to NORFOLK) Not to speak of:
Link: 2.2.99
I would not be so sick though for his place:
Link: 2.2.100
But this cannot continue.
Link: 2.2.101

NORFOLK
(Aside to SUFFOLK) If it do,
Link: 2.2.102
I'll venture one have-at-him.
Link: 2.2.103

SUFFOLK
(Aside to NORFOLK) I another.
Link: 2.2.104

Exeunt NORFOLK and SUFFOLK

CARDINAL WOLSEY
Your grace has given a precedent of wisdom
Link: 2.2.105
Above all princes, in committing freely
Link: 2.2.106
Your scruple to the voice of Christendom:
Link: 2.2.107
Who can be angry now? what envy reach you?
Link: 2.2.108
The Spaniard, tied blood and favour to her,
Link: 2.2.109
Must now confess, if they have any goodness,
Link: 2.2.110
The trial just and noble. All the clerks,
Link: 2.2.111
I mean the learned ones, in Christian kingdoms
Link: 2.2.112
Have their free voices: Rome, the nurse of judgment,
Link: 2.2.113
Invited by your noble self, hath sent
Link: 2.2.114
One general tongue unto us, this good man,
Link: 2.2.115
This just and learned priest, Cardinal Campeius;
Link: 2.2.116
Whom once more I present unto your highness.
Link: 2.2.117

KING HENRY VIII
And once more in mine arms I bid him welcome,
Link: 2.2.118
And thank the holy conclave for their loves:
Link: 2.2.119
They have sent me such a man I would have wish'd for.
Link: 2.2.120

CARDINAL CAMPEIUS
Your grace must needs deserve all strangers' loves,
Link: 2.2.121
You are so noble. To your highness' hand
Link: 2.2.122
I tender my commission; by whose virtue,
Link: 2.2.123
The court of Rome commanding, you, my lord
Link: 2.2.124
Cardinal of York, are join'd with me their servant
Link: 2.2.125
In the unpartial judging of this business.
Link: 2.2.126

KING HENRY VIII
Two equal men. The queen shall be acquainted
Link: 2.2.127
Forthwith for what you come. Where's Gardiner?
Link: 2.2.128

CARDINAL WOLSEY
I know your majesty has always loved her
Link: 2.2.129
So dear in heart, not to deny her that
Link: 2.2.130
A woman of less place might ask by law:
Link: 2.2.131
Scholars allow'd freely to argue for her.
Link: 2.2.132

KING HENRY VIII
Ay, and the best she shall have; and my favour
Link: 2.2.133
To him that does best: God forbid else. Cardinal,
Link: 2.2.134
Prithee, call Gardiner to me, my new secretary:
Link: 2.2.135
I find him a fit fellow.
Link: 2.2.136

Exit CARDINAL WOLSEY

Re-enter CARDINAL WOLSEY, with GARDINER

CARDINAL WOLSEY
(Aside to GARDINER) Give me your hand much joy and
Link: 2.2.137
favour to you;
Link: 2.2.138
You are the king's now.
Link: 2.2.139

GARDINER
(Aside to CARDINAL WOLSEY)
Link: 2.2.140
But to be commanded
Link: 2.2.141
For ever by your grace, whose hand has raised me.
Link: 2.2.142

KING HENRY VIII
Come hither, Gardiner.
Link: 2.2.143

Walks and whispers

CARDINAL CAMPEIUS
My Lord of York, was not one Doctor Pace
Link: 2.2.144
In this man's place before him?
Link: 2.2.145

CARDINAL WOLSEY
Yes, he was.
Link: 2.2.146

CARDINAL CAMPEIUS
Was he not held a learned man?
Link: 2.2.147

CARDINAL WOLSEY
Yes, surely.
Link: 2.2.148

CARDINAL CAMPEIUS
Believe me, there's an ill opinion spread then
Link: 2.2.149
Even of yourself, lord cardinal.
Link: 2.2.150

CARDINAL WOLSEY
How! of me?
Link: 2.2.151

CARDINAL CAMPEIUS
They will not stick to say you envied him,
Link: 2.2.152
And fearing he would rise, he was so virtuous,
Link: 2.2.153
Kept him a foreign man still; which so grieved him,
Link: 2.2.154
That he ran mad and died.
Link: 2.2.155

CARDINAL WOLSEY
Heaven's peace be with him!
Link: 2.2.156
That's Christian care enough: for living murmurers
Link: 2.2.157
There's places of rebuke. He was a fool;
Link: 2.2.158
For he would needs be virtuous: that good fellow,
Link: 2.2.159
If I command him, follows my appointment:
Link: 2.2.160
I will have none so near else. Learn this, brother,
Link: 2.2.161
We live not to be grip'd by meaner persons.
Link: 2.2.162

KING HENRY VIII
Deliver this with modesty to the queen.
Link: 2.2.163
The most convenient place that I can think of
Link: 2.2.164
For such receipt of learning is Black-Friars;
Link: 2.2.165
There ye shall meet about this weighty business.
Link: 2.2.166
My Wolsey, see it furnish'd. O, my lord,
Link: 2.2.167
Would it not grieve an able man to leave
Link: 2.2.168
So sweet a bedfellow? But, conscience, conscience!
Link: 2.2.169
O, 'tis a tender place; and I must leave her.
Link: 2.2.170

Exeunt

SCENE III. An ante-chamber of the QUEEN'S apartments.

Scene 3 of Act 2 begins with the arrival of Cardinal Wolsey at the Duke of Buckingham's trial. Buckingham is accused of treason and the trial is being held in Westminster Hall. Wolsey enters with his attendants and takes his place on the bench.

The trial begins with the reading of the indictment against Buckingham. He is accused of speaking ill of the king and plotting against him. Buckingham denies the charges and demands to face his accusers. The Duke of Norfolk, who is the Lord High Steward presiding over the trial, refuses Buckingham's request and orders the trial to continue.

Next, several witnesses are called to testify against Buckingham. They accuse him of various treasonous acts, including meeting with foreign ambassadors and discussing the possibility of overthrowing the king. Buckingham again denies the charges and maintains his innocence.

As the trial continues, Buckingham grows more and more agitated. He realizes that he has no chance of receiving a fair trial and that the outcome has already been decided. He delivers a powerful speech in which he condemns Wolsey and the other members of the court for their corruption and injustice.

Despite Buckingham's impassioned defense, the court finds him guilty of treason and sentences him to death. Buckingham accepts his fate with dignity and nobility, declaring that he is ready to face his maker. The scene ends with Buckingham being led away to his execution, while the other characters reflect on the tragic outcome of his trial.

Enter ANNE and an Old Lady

ANNE
Not for that neither: here's the pang that pinches:
Link: 2.3.1
His highness having lived so long with her, and she
Link: 2.3.2
So good a lady that no tongue could ever
Link: 2.3.3
Pronounce dishonour of her; by my life,
Link: 2.3.4
She never knew harm-doing: O, now, after
Link: 2.3.5
So many courses of the sun enthroned,
Link: 2.3.6
Still growing in a majesty and pomp, the which
Link: 2.3.7
To leave a thousand-fold more bitter than
Link: 2.3.8
'Tis sweet at first to acquire,--after this process,
Link: 2.3.9
To give her the avaunt! it is a pity
Link: 2.3.10
Would move a monster.
Link: 2.3.11

Old Lady
Hearts of most hard temper
Link: 2.3.12
Melt and lament for her.
Link: 2.3.13

ANNE
O, God's will! much better
Link: 2.3.14
She ne'er had known pomp: though't be temporal,
Link: 2.3.15
Yet, if that quarrel, fortune, do divorce
Link: 2.3.16
It from the bearer, 'tis a sufferance panging
Link: 2.3.17
As soul and body's severing.
Link: 2.3.18

Old Lady
Alas, poor lady!
Link: 2.3.19
She's a stranger now again.
Link: 2.3.20

ANNE
So much the more
Link: 2.3.21
Must pity drop upon her. Verily,
Link: 2.3.22
I swear, 'tis better to be lowly born,
Link: 2.3.23
And range with humble livers in content,
Link: 2.3.24
Than to be perk'd up in a glistering grief,
Link: 2.3.25
And wear a golden sorrow.
Link: 2.3.26

Old Lady
Our content
Link: 2.3.27
Is our best having.
Link: 2.3.28

ANNE
By my troth and maidenhead,
Link: 2.3.29
I would not be a queen.
Link: 2.3.30

Old Lady
Beshrew me, I would,
Link: 2.3.31
And venture maidenhead for't; and so would you,
Link: 2.3.32
For all this spice of your hypocrisy:
Link: 2.3.33
You, that have so fair parts of woman on you,
Link: 2.3.34
Have too a woman's heart; which ever yet
Link: 2.3.35
Affected eminence, wealth, sovereignty;
Link: 2.3.36
Which, to say sooth, are blessings; and which gifts,
Link: 2.3.37
Saving your mincing, the capacity
Link: 2.3.38
Of your soft cheveril conscience would receive,
Link: 2.3.39
If you might please to stretch it.
Link: 2.3.40

ANNE
Nay, good troth.
Link: 2.3.41

Old Lady
Yes, troth, and troth; you would not be a queen?
Link: 2.3.42

ANNE
No, not for all the riches under heaven.
Link: 2.3.43

Old Lady:
'Tis strange: a three-pence bow'd would hire me,
Link: 2.3.44
Old as I am, to queen it: but, I pray you,
Link: 2.3.45
What think you of a duchess? have you limbs
Link: 2.3.46
To bear that load of title?
Link: 2.3.47

ANNE
No, in truth.
Link: 2.3.48

Old Lady
Then you are weakly made: pluck off a little;
Link: 2.3.49
I would not be a young count in your way,
Link: 2.3.50
For more than blushing comes to: if your back
Link: 2.3.51
Cannot vouchsafe this burthen,'tis too weak
Link: 2.3.52
Ever to get a boy.
Link: 2.3.53

ANNE
How you do talk!
Link: 2.3.54
I swear again, I would not be a queen
Link: 2.3.55
For all the world.
Link: 2.3.56

Old Lady
In faith, for little England
Link: 2.3.57
You'ld venture an emballing: I myself
Link: 2.3.58
Would for Carnarvonshire, although there long'd
Link: 2.3.59
No more to the crown but that. Lo, who comes here?
Link: 2.3.60

Enter Chamberlain

Chamberlain
Good morrow, ladies. What were't worth to know
Link: 2.3.61
The secret of your conference?
Link: 2.3.62

ANNE
My good lord,
Link: 2.3.63
Not your demand; it values not your asking:
Link: 2.3.64
Our mistress' sorrows we were pitying.
Link: 2.3.65

Chamberlain
It was a gentle business, and becoming
Link: 2.3.66
The action of good women: there is hope
Link: 2.3.67
All will be well.
Link: 2.3.68

ANNE
Now, I pray God, amen!
Link: 2.3.69

Chamberlain
You bear a gentle mind, and heavenly blessings
Link: 2.3.70
Follow such creatures. That you may, fair lady,
Link: 2.3.71
Perceive I speak sincerely, and high note's
Link: 2.3.72
Ta'en of your many virtues, the king's majesty
Link: 2.3.73
Commends his good opinion of you, and
Link: 2.3.74
Does purpose honour to you no less flowing
Link: 2.3.75
Than Marchioness of Pembroke: to which title
Link: 2.3.76
A thousand pound a year, annual support,
Link: 2.3.77
Out of his grace he adds.
Link: 2.3.78

ANNE
I do not know
Link: 2.3.79
What kind of my obedience I should tender;
Link: 2.3.80
More than my all is nothing: nor my prayers
Link: 2.3.81
Are not words duly hallow'd, nor my wishes
Link: 2.3.82
More worth than empty vanities; yet prayers and wishes
Link: 2.3.83
Are all I can return. Beseech your lordship,
Link: 2.3.84
Vouchsafe to speak my thanks and my obedience,
Link: 2.3.85
As from a blushing handmaid, to his highness;
Link: 2.3.86
Whose health and royalty I pray for.
Link: 2.3.87

Chamberlain
I shall not fail to approve the fair conceit
Link: 2.3.89
The king hath of you.
Link: 2.3.90
I have perused her well;
Link: 2.3.91
Beauty and honour in her are so mingled
Link: 2.3.92
That they have caught the king: and who knows yet
Link: 2.3.93
But from this lady may proceed a gem
Link: 2.3.94
To lighten all this isle? I'll to the king,
Link: 2.3.95
And say I spoke with you.
Link: 2.3.96

Exit Chamberlain

ANNE
My honour'd lord.
Link: 2.3.97

Old Lady
Why, this it is; see, see!
Link: 2.3.98
I have been begging sixteen years in court,
Link: 2.3.99
Am yet a courtier beggarly, nor could
Link: 2.3.100
Come pat betwixt too early and too late
Link: 2.3.101
For any suit of pounds; and you, O fate!
Link: 2.3.102
A very fresh-fish here--fie, fie, fie upon
Link: 2.3.103
This compell'd fortune!--have your mouth fill'd up
Link: 2.3.104
Before you open it.
Link: 2.3.105

ANNE
This is strange to me.
Link: 2.3.106

Old Lady
How tastes it? is it bitter? forty pence, no.
Link: 2.3.107
There was a lady once, 'tis an old story,
Link: 2.3.108
That would not be a queen, that would she not,
Link: 2.3.109
For all the mud in Egypt: have you heard it?
Link: 2.3.110

ANNE
Come, you are pleasant.
Link: 2.3.111

Old Lady
With your theme, I could
Link: 2.3.112
O'ermount the lark. The Marchioness of Pembroke!
Link: 2.3.113
A thousand pounds a year for pure respect!
Link: 2.3.114
No other obligation! By my life,
Link: 2.3.115
That promises moe thousands: honour's train
Link: 2.3.116
Is longer than his foreskirt. By this time
Link: 2.3.117
I know your back will bear a duchess: say,
Link: 2.3.118
Are you not stronger than you were?
Link: 2.3.119

ANNE
Good lady,
Link: 2.3.120
Make yourself mirth with your particular fancy,
Link: 2.3.121
And leave me out on't. Would I had no being,
Link: 2.3.122
If this salute my blood a jot: it faints me,
Link: 2.3.123
To think what follows.
Link: 2.3.124
The queen is comfortless, and we forgetful
Link: 2.3.125
In our long absence: pray, do not deliver
Link: 2.3.126
What here you've heard to her.
Link: 2.3.127

Old Lady
What do you think me?
Link: 2.3.128

Exeunt

SCENE IV. A hall in Black-Friars.

In Scene 4 of Act 2 of Henry VIII, two gentlemen discuss the recent arrival of Cardinal Wolsey and his influence on the king. They note that the Cardinal has amassed great wealth and power, and that he now seems to be the one in control of the kingdom. One of the gentlemen expresses concern that the Cardinal's ambition may ultimately lead to his downfall, as he has made many enemies in his rise to power.

As they continue to talk, the gentlemen are interrupted by the arrival of a messenger, who brings news that the king's council has decided to arrest the Duke of Buckingham on charges of treason. The gentlemen are surprised by this turn of events, as Buckingham had always been a loyal supporter of the king. They speculate that the Duke's downfall may have been caused by the machinations of the Cardinal, who they believe is jealous of Buckingham's popularity and influence.

The scene ends with the gentlemen expressing their sadness at the Duke's fate, and their fear that the Cardinal's power will continue to grow unchecked. They vow to remain vigilant and to do what they can to protect the kingdom from the Cardinal's schemes.

Trumpets, sennet, and cornets. Enter two Vergers, with short silver wands; next them, two Scribes, in the habit of doctors; after them, CANTERBURY alone; after him, LINCOLN, Ely, Rochester, and Saint Asaph; next them, with some small distance, follows a Gentleman bearing the purse, with the great seal, and a cardinal's hat; then two Priests, bearing each a silver cross; then a Gentleman-usher bare-headed, accompanied with a Sergeant-at-arms bearing a silver mace; then two Gentlemen bearing two great silver pillars; after them, side by side, CARDINAL WOLSEY and CARDINAL CAMPEIUS; two Noblemen with the sword and mace. KING HENRY VIII takes place under the cloth of state; CARDINAL WOLSEY and CARDINAL CAMPEIUS sit under him as judges. QUEEN KATHARINE takes place some distance from KING HENRY VIII. The Bishops place themselves on each side the court, in manner of a consistory; below them, the Scribes. The Lords sit next the Bishops. The rest of the Attendants stand in convenient order about the stage

CARDINAL WOLSEY
Whilst our commission from Rome is read,
Link: 2.4.1
Let silence be commanded.
Link: 2.4.2

KING HENRY VIII
What's the need?
Link: 2.4.3
It hath already publicly been read,
Link: 2.4.4
And on all sides the authority allow'd;
Link: 2.4.5
You may, then, spare that time.
Link: 2.4.6

CARDINAL WOLSEY
Be't so. Proceed.
Link: 2.4.7

Scribe
Say, Henry King of England, come into the court.
Link: 2.4.8

Crier
Henry King of England, c.
Link: 2.4.9

KING HENRY VIII

Scribe
Say, Katharine Queen of England, come into the court.
Link: 2.4.11

Crier
Katharine Queen of England, c.
Link: 2.4.12

QUEEN KATHARINE makes no answer, rises out of her chair, goes about the court, comes to KING HENRY VIII, and kneels at his feet; then speaks

QUEEN KATHARINE
Sir, I desire you do me right and justice;
Link: 2.4.13
And to bestow your pity on me: for
Link: 2.4.14
I am a most poor woman, and a stranger,
Link: 2.4.15
Born out of your dominions; having here
Link: 2.4.16
No judge indifferent, nor no more assurance
Link: 2.4.17
Of equal friendship and proceeding. Alas, sir,
Link: 2.4.18
In what have I offended you? what cause
Link: 2.4.19
Hath my behavior given to your displeasure,
Link: 2.4.20
That thus you should proceed to put me off,
Link: 2.4.21
And take your good grace from me? Heaven witness,
Link: 2.4.22
I have been to you a true and humble wife,
Link: 2.4.23
At all times to your will conformable;
Link: 2.4.24
Ever in fear to kindle your dislike,
Link: 2.4.25
Yea, subject to your countenance, glad or sorry
Link: 2.4.26
As I saw it inclined: when was the hour
Link: 2.4.27
I ever contradicted your desire,
Link: 2.4.28
Or made it not mine too? Or which of your friends
Link: 2.4.29
Have I not strove to love, although I knew
Link: 2.4.30
He were mine enemy? what friend of mine
Link: 2.4.31
That had to him derived your anger, did I
Link: 2.4.32
Continue in my liking? nay, gave notice
Link: 2.4.33
He was from thence discharged. Sir, call to mind
Link: 2.4.34
That I have been your wife, in this obedience,
Link: 2.4.35
Upward of twenty years, and have been blest
Link: 2.4.36
With many children by you: if, in the course
Link: 2.4.37
And process of this time, you can report,
Link: 2.4.38
And prove it too, against mine honour aught,
Link: 2.4.39
My bond to wedlock, or my love and duty,
Link: 2.4.40
Against your sacred person, in God's name,
Link: 2.4.41
Turn me away; and let the foul'st contempt
Link: 2.4.42
Shut door upon me, and so give me up
Link: 2.4.43
To the sharp'st kind of justice. Please you sir,
Link: 2.4.44
The king, your father, was reputed for
Link: 2.4.45
A prince most prudent, of an excellent
Link: 2.4.46
And unmatch'd wit and judgment: Ferdinand,
Link: 2.4.47
My father, king of Spain, was reckon'd one
Link: 2.4.48
The wisest prince that there had reign'd by many
Link: 2.4.49
A year before: it is not to be question'd
Link: 2.4.50
That they had gather'd a wise council to them
Link: 2.4.51
Of every realm, that did debate this business,
Link: 2.4.52
Who deem'd our marriage lawful: wherefore I humbly
Link: 2.4.53
Beseech you, sir, to spare me, till I may
Link: 2.4.54
Be by my friends in Spain advised; whose counsel
Link: 2.4.55
I will implore: if not, i' the name of God,
Link: 2.4.56
Your pleasure be fulfill'd!
Link: 2.4.57

CARDINAL WOLSEY
You have here, lady,
Link: 2.4.58
And of your choice, these reverend fathers; men
Link: 2.4.59
Of singular integrity and learning,
Link: 2.4.60
Yea, the elect o' the land, who are assembled
Link: 2.4.61
To plead your cause: it shall be therefore bootless
Link: 2.4.62
That longer you desire the court; as well
Link: 2.4.63
For your own quiet, as to rectify
Link: 2.4.64
What is unsettled in the king.
Link: 2.4.65

CARDINAL CAMPEIUS
His grace
Link: 2.4.66
Hath spoken well and justly: therefore, madam,
Link: 2.4.67
It's fit this royal session do proceed;
Link: 2.4.68
And that, without delay, their arguments
Link: 2.4.69
Be now produced and heard.
Link: 2.4.70

QUEEN KATHARINE
Lord cardinal,
Link: 2.4.71
To you I speak.
Link: 2.4.72

CARDINAL WOLSEY
Your pleasure, madam?
Link: 2.4.73

QUEEN KATHARINE
I am about to weep; but, thinking that
Link: 2.4.75
We are a queen, or long have dream'd so, certain
Link: 2.4.76
The daughter of a king, my drops of tears
Link: 2.4.77
I'll turn to sparks of fire.
Link: 2.4.78

CARDINAL WOLSEY
Be patient yet.
Link: 2.4.79

QUEEN KATHARINE
I will, when you are humble; nay, before,
Link: 2.4.80
Or God will punish me. I do believe,
Link: 2.4.81
Induced by potent circumstances, that
Link: 2.4.82
You are mine enemy, and make my challenge
Link: 2.4.83
You shall not be my judge: for it is you
Link: 2.4.84
Have blown this coal betwixt my lord and me;
Link: 2.4.85
Which God's dew quench! Therefore I say again,
Link: 2.4.86
I utterly abhor, yea, from my soul
Link: 2.4.87
Refuse you for my judge; whom, yet once more,
Link: 2.4.88
I hold my most malicious foe, and think not
Link: 2.4.89
At all a friend to truth.
Link: 2.4.90

CARDINAL WOLSEY
I do profess
Link: 2.4.91
You speak not like yourself; who ever yet
Link: 2.4.92
Have stood to charity, and display'd the effects
Link: 2.4.93
Of disposition gentle, and of wisdom
Link: 2.4.94
O'ertopping woman's power. Madam, you do me wrong:
Link: 2.4.95
I have no spleen against you; nor injustice
Link: 2.4.96
For you or any: how far I have proceeded,
Link: 2.4.97
Or how far further shall, is warranted
Link: 2.4.98
By a commission from the consistory,
Link: 2.4.99
Yea, the whole consistory of Rome. You charge me
Link: 2.4.100
That I have blown this coal: I do deny it:
Link: 2.4.101
The king is present: if it be known to him
Link: 2.4.102
That I gainsay my deed, how may he wound,
Link: 2.4.103
And worthily, my falsehood! yea, as much
Link: 2.4.104
As you have done my truth. If he know
Link: 2.4.105
That I am free of your report, he knows
Link: 2.4.106
I am not of your wrong. Therefore in him
Link: 2.4.107
It lies to cure me: and the cure is, to
Link: 2.4.108
Remove these thoughts from you: the which before
Link: 2.4.109
His highness shall speak in, I do beseech
Link: 2.4.110
You, gracious madam, to unthink your speaking
Link: 2.4.111
And to say so no more.
Link: 2.4.112

QUEEN KATHARINE
My lord, my lord,
Link: 2.4.113
I am a simple woman, much too weak
Link: 2.4.114
To oppose your cunning. You're meek and
Link: 2.4.115
humble-mouth'd;
Link: 2.4.116
You sign your place and calling, in full seeming,
Link: 2.4.117
With meekness and humility; but your heart
Link: 2.4.118
Is cramm'd with arrogancy, spleen, and pride.
Link: 2.4.119
You have, by fortune and his highness' favours,
Link: 2.4.120
Gone slightly o'er low steps and now are mounted
Link: 2.4.121
Where powers are your retainers, and your words,
Link: 2.4.122
Domestics to you, serve your will as't please
Link: 2.4.123
Yourself pronounce their office. I must tell you,
Link: 2.4.124
You tender more your person's honour than
Link: 2.4.125
Your high profession spiritual: that again
Link: 2.4.126
I do refuse you for my judge; and here,
Link: 2.4.127
Before you all, appeal unto the pope,
Link: 2.4.128
To bring my whole cause 'fore his holiness,
Link: 2.4.129
And to be judged by him.
Link: 2.4.130

She curtsies to KING HENRY VIII, and offers to depart

CARDINAL CAMPEIUS
The queen is obstinate,
Link: 2.4.131
Stubborn to justice, apt to accuse it, and
Link: 2.4.132
Disdainful to be tried by't: 'tis not well.
Link: 2.4.133
She's going away.
Link: 2.4.134

KING HENRY VIII
Call her again.
Link: 2.4.135

Crier
Katharine Queen of England, come into the court.
Link: 2.4.136

GRIFFITH
Madam, you are call'd back.
Link: 2.4.137

QUEEN KATHARINE
What need you note it? pray you, keep your way:
Link: 2.4.138
When you are call'd, return. Now, the Lord help,
Link: 2.4.139
They vex me past my patience! Pray you, pass on:
Link: 2.4.140
I will not tarry; no, nor ever more
Link: 2.4.141
Upon this business my appearance make
Link: 2.4.142
In any of their courts.
Link: 2.4.143

Exeunt QUEEN KATHARINE and her Attendants

KING HENRY VIII
Go thy ways, Kate:
Link: 2.4.144
That man i' the world who shall report he has
Link: 2.4.145
A better wife, let him in nought be trusted,
Link: 2.4.146
For speaking false in that: thou art, alone,
Link: 2.4.147
If thy rare qualities, sweet gentleness,
Link: 2.4.148
Thy meekness saint-like, wife-like government,
Link: 2.4.149
Obeying in commanding, and thy parts
Link: 2.4.150
Sovereign and pious else, could speak thee out,
Link: 2.4.151
The queen of earthly queens: she's noble born;
Link: 2.4.152
And, like her true nobility, she has
Link: 2.4.153
Carried herself towards me.
Link: 2.4.154

CARDINAL WOLSEY
Most gracious sir,
Link: 2.4.155
In humblest manner I require your highness,
Link: 2.4.156
That it shall please you to declare, in hearing
Link: 2.4.157
Of all these ears,--for where I am robb'd and bound,
Link: 2.4.158
There must I be unloosed, although not there
Link: 2.4.159
At once and fully satisfied,--whether ever I
Link: 2.4.160
Did broach this business to your highness; or
Link: 2.4.161
Laid any scruple in your way, which might
Link: 2.4.162
Induce you to the question on't? or ever
Link: 2.4.163
Have to you, but with thanks to God for such
Link: 2.4.164
A royal lady, spake one the least word that might
Link: 2.4.165
Be to the prejudice of her present state,
Link: 2.4.166
Or touch of her good person?
Link: 2.4.167

KING HENRY VIII
My lord cardinal,
Link: 2.4.168
I do excuse you; yea, upon mine honour,
Link: 2.4.169
I free you from't. You are not to be taught
Link: 2.4.170
That you have many enemies, that know not
Link: 2.4.171
Why they are so, but, like to village-curs,
Link: 2.4.172
Bark when their fellows do: by some of these
Link: 2.4.173
The queen is put in anger. You're excused:
Link: 2.4.174
But will you be more justified? You ever
Link: 2.4.175
Have wish'd the sleeping of this business; never desired
Link: 2.4.176
It to be stirr'd; but oft have hinder'd, oft,
Link: 2.4.177
The passages made toward it: on my honour,
Link: 2.4.178
I speak my good lord cardinal to this point,
Link: 2.4.179
And thus far clear him. Now, what moved me to't,
Link: 2.4.180
I will be bold with time and your attention:
Link: 2.4.181
Then mark the inducement. Thus it came; give heed to't:
Link: 2.4.182
My conscience first received a tenderness,
Link: 2.4.183
Scruple, and prick, on certain speeches utter'd
Link: 2.4.184
By the Bishop of Bayonne, then French ambassador;
Link: 2.4.185
Who had been hither sent on the debating
Link: 2.4.186
A marriage 'twixt the Duke of Orleans and
Link: 2.4.187
Our daughter Mary: i' the progress of this business,
Link: 2.4.188
Ere a determinate resolution, he,
Link: 2.4.189
I mean the bishop, did require a respite;
Link: 2.4.190
Wherein he might the king his lord advertise
Link: 2.4.191
Whether our daughter were legitimate,
Link: 2.4.192
Respecting this our marriage with the dowager,
Link: 2.4.193
Sometimes our brother's wife. This respite shook
Link: 2.4.194
The bosom of my conscience, enter'd me,
Link: 2.4.195
Yea, with a splitting power, and made to tremble
Link: 2.4.196
The region of my breast; which forced such way,
Link: 2.4.197
That many mazed considerings did throng
Link: 2.4.198
And press'd in with this caution. First, methought
Link: 2.4.199
I stood not in the smile of heaven; who had
Link: 2.4.200
Commanded nature, that my lady's womb,
Link: 2.4.201
If it conceived a male child by me, should
Link: 2.4.202
Do no more offices of life to't than
Link: 2.4.203
The grave does to the dead; for her male issue
Link: 2.4.204
Or died where they were made, or shortly after
Link: 2.4.205
This world had air'd them: hence I took a thought,
Link: 2.4.206
This was a judgment on me; that my kingdom,
Link: 2.4.207
Well worthy the best heir o' the world, should not
Link: 2.4.208
Be gladded in't by me: then follows, that
Link: 2.4.209
I weigh'd the danger which my realms stood in
Link: 2.4.210
By this my issue's fail; and that gave to me
Link: 2.4.211
Many a groaning throe. Thus hulling in
Link: 2.4.212
The wild sea of my conscience, I did steer
Link: 2.4.213
Toward this remedy, whereupon we are
Link: 2.4.214
Now present here together: that's to say,
Link: 2.4.215
I meant to rectify my conscience,--which
Link: 2.4.216
I then did feel full sick, and yet not well,--
Link: 2.4.217
By all the reverend fathers of the land
Link: 2.4.218
And doctors learn'd: first I began in private
Link: 2.4.219
With you, my Lord of Lincoln; you remember
Link: 2.4.220
How under my oppression I did reek,
Link: 2.4.221
When I first moved you.
Link: 2.4.222

LINCOLN
Very well, my liege.
Link: 2.4.223

KING HENRY VIII
I have spoke long: be pleased yourself to say
Link: 2.4.224
How far you satisfied me.
Link: 2.4.225

LINCOLN
So please your highness,
Link: 2.4.226
The question did at first so stagger me,
Link: 2.4.227
Bearing a state of mighty moment in't
Link: 2.4.228
And consequence of dread, that I committed
Link: 2.4.229
The daring'st counsel which I had to doubt;
Link: 2.4.230
And did entreat your highness to this course
Link: 2.4.231
Which you are running here.
Link: 2.4.232

KING HENRY VIII
I then moved you,
Link: 2.4.233
My Lord of Canterbury; and got your leave
Link: 2.4.234
To make this present summons: unsolicited
Link: 2.4.235
I left no reverend person in this court;
Link: 2.4.236
But by particular consent proceeded
Link: 2.4.237
Under your hands and seals: therefore, go on:
Link: 2.4.238
For no dislike i' the world against the person
Link: 2.4.239
Of the good queen, but the sharp thorny points
Link: 2.4.240
Of my alleged reasons, drive this forward:
Link: 2.4.241
Prove but our marriage lawful, by my life
Link: 2.4.242
And kingly dignity, we are contented
Link: 2.4.243
To wear our mortal state to come with her,
Link: 2.4.244
Katharine our queen, before the primest creature
Link: 2.4.245
That's paragon'd o' the world.
Link: 2.4.246

CARDINAL CAMPEIUS
So please your highness,
Link: 2.4.247
The queen being absent, 'tis a needful fitness
Link: 2.4.248
That we adjourn this court till further day:
Link: 2.4.249
Meanwhile must be an earnest motion
Link: 2.4.250
Made to the queen, to call back her appeal
Link: 2.4.251
She intends unto his holiness.
Link: 2.4.252

KING HENRY VIII
(Aside) I may perceive
Link: 2.4.253
These cardinals trifle with me: I abhor
Link: 2.4.254
This dilatory sloth and tricks of Rome.
Link: 2.4.255
My learn'd and well-beloved servant, Cranmer,
Link: 2.4.256
Prithee, return: with thy approach, I know,
Link: 2.4.257
My comfort comes along. Break up the court:
Link: 2.4.258
I say, set on.
Link: 2.4.259

Exeunt in manner as they entered

Act III

Act 3 of Henry VIII is a dramatic and pivotal moment in the play. The act starts with a confrontation between the Duke of Norfolk and Cardinal Wolsey, where Norfolk accuses Wolsey of being corrupt and power-hungry. Wolsey denies the accusations and tries to shift the blame onto the Duke of Buckingham, who has been executed for treason.

Meanwhile, the king's attention is focused on his marriage to Queen Katherine, who has refused to accept the annulment of their marriage. The king is determined to divorce Katherine and marry Anne Boleyn, but Katherine refuses to give up her title and position as queen. The act culminates in a tense confrontation between the king and Katherine, where she delivers a powerful speech defending her honor and her right to be queen. The king is moved by her words but remains steadfast in his determination to divorce her.

The act ends with a grand procession celebrating the birth of Princess Elizabeth, the daughter of the king and Anne Boleyn. The celebration is overshadowed by the growing tension between the king and the Catholic Church, as well as the rising power of the Protestant Reformation in England.

SCENE I. London. QUEEN KATHARINE's apartments.

Scene 1 of Act 3 begins with a conversation between two gentlemen discussing the impending trial of Queen Katherine. The men express their sympathy for the queen and their belief that the trial is unjust.

Cardinal Wolsey enters and expresses his concern about the queen's popularity among the people. He suggests that the king should be present at the trial to show his support for the proceedings.

The Duke of Norfolk then enters and criticizes Wolsey for his handling of the situation. Norfolk accuses Wolsey of being too concerned with his own power and influence rather than the well-being of the kingdom.

The conversation turns to the king's relationship with Anne Boleyn and Wolsey suggests that the king may be swayed to abandon Anne if he believes it is in the best interest of the country. Norfolk disagrees and defends Anne's honor.

The scene ends with Wolsey expressing his concern about the growing power of the Protestant movement and the potential threat it poses to the Catholic Church.

Enter QUEEN KATHARINE and her Women, as at work

QUEEN KATHARINE
Take thy lute, wench: my soul grows sad with troubles;
Link: 3.1.1
Sing, and disperse 'em, if thou canst: leave working.
Link: 3.1.2
Orpheus with his lute made trees,
Link: 3.1.3
And the mountain tops that freeze,
Link: 3.1.4
Bow themselves when he did sing:
Link: 3.1.5
To his music plants and flowers
Link: 3.1.6
Ever sprung; as sun and showers
Link: 3.1.7
There had made a lasting spring.
Link: 3.1.8
Every thing that heard him play,
Link: 3.1.9
Even the billows of the sea,
Link: 3.1.10
Hung their heads, and then lay by.
Link: 3.1.11
In sweet music is such art,
Link: 3.1.12
Killing care and grief of heart
Link: 3.1.13
Fall asleep, or hearing, die.
Link: 3.1.14

Enter a Gentleman

QUEEN KATHARINE
How now!
Link: 3.1.15

Gentleman
An't please your grace, the two great cardinals
Link: 3.1.16
Wait in the presence.
Link: 3.1.17

QUEEN KATHARINE
Would they speak with me?
Link: 3.1.18

Gentleman
They will'd me say so, madam.
Link: 3.1.19

QUEEN KATHARINE
Pray their graces
Link: 3.1.20
To come near.
Link: 3.1.21
What can be their business
Link: 3.1.22
With me, a poor weak woman, fall'n from favour?
Link: 3.1.23
I do not like their coming. Now I think on't,
Link: 3.1.24
They should be good men; their affairs as righteous:
Link: 3.1.25
But all hoods make not monks.
Link: 3.1.26

Enter CARDINAL WOLSEY and CARDINAL CAMPEIUS

CARDINAL WOLSEY
Peace to your highness!
Link: 3.1.27

QUEEN KATHARINE
Your graces find me here part of a housewife,
Link: 3.1.28
I would be all, against the worst may happen.
Link: 3.1.29
What are your pleasures with me, reverend lords?
Link: 3.1.30

CARDINAL WOLSEY
May it please you noble madam, to withdraw
Link: 3.1.31
Into your private chamber, we shall give you
Link: 3.1.32
The full cause of our coming.
Link: 3.1.33

QUEEN KATHARINE
Speak it here:
Link: 3.1.34
There's nothing I have done yet, o' my conscience,
Link: 3.1.35
Deserves a corner: would all other women
Link: 3.1.36
Could speak this with as free a soul as I do!
Link: 3.1.37
My lords, I care not, so much I am happy
Link: 3.1.38
Above a number, if my actions
Link: 3.1.39
Were tried by every tongue, every eye saw 'em,
Link: 3.1.40
Envy and base opinion set against 'em,
Link: 3.1.41
I know my life so even. If your business
Link: 3.1.42
Seek me out, and that way I am wife in,
Link: 3.1.43
Out with it boldly: truth loves open dealing.
Link: 3.1.44

CARDINAL WOLSEY
Tanta est erga te mentis integritas, regina
Link: 3.1.45
serenissima,--
Link: 3.1.46

QUEEN KATHARINE
O, good my lord, no Latin;
Link: 3.1.47
I am not such a truant since my coming,
Link: 3.1.48
As not to know the language I have lived in:
Link: 3.1.49
A strange tongue makes my cause more strange,
Link: 3.1.50
suspicious;
Link: 3.1.51
Pray, speak in English: here are some will thank you,
Link: 3.1.52
If you speak truth, for their poor mistress' sake;
Link: 3.1.53
Believe me, she has had much wrong: lord cardinal,
Link: 3.1.54
The willing'st sin I ever yet committed
Link: 3.1.55
May be absolved in English.
Link: 3.1.56

CARDINAL WOLSEY
Noble lady,
Link: 3.1.57
I am sorry my integrity should breed,
Link: 3.1.58
And service to his majesty and you,
Link: 3.1.59
So deep suspicion, where all faith was meant.
Link: 3.1.60
We come not by the way of accusation,
Link: 3.1.61
To taint that honour every good tongue blesses,
Link: 3.1.62
Nor to betray you any way to sorrow,
Link: 3.1.63
You have too much, good lady; but to know
Link: 3.1.64
How you stand minded in the weighty difference
Link: 3.1.65
Between the king and you; and to deliver,
Link: 3.1.66
Like free and honest men, our just opinions
Link: 3.1.67
And comforts to your cause.
Link: 3.1.68

CARDINAL CAMPEIUS
Most honour'd madam,
Link: 3.1.69
My Lord of York, out of his noble nature,
Link: 3.1.70
Zeal and obedience he still bore your grace,
Link: 3.1.71
Forgetting, like a good man your late censure
Link: 3.1.72
Both of his truth and him, which was too far,
Link: 3.1.73
Offers, as I do, in a sign of peace,
Link: 3.1.74
His service and his counsel.
Link: 3.1.75

QUEEN KATHARINE
(Aside) To betray me.--
Link: 3.1.76
My lords, I thank you both for your good wills;
Link: 3.1.77
Ye speak like honest men; pray God, ye prove so!
Link: 3.1.78
But how to make ye suddenly an answer,
Link: 3.1.79
In such a point of weight, so near mine honour,--
Link: 3.1.80
More near my life, I fear,--with my weak wit,
Link: 3.1.81
And to such men of gravity and learning,
Link: 3.1.82
In truth, I know not. I was set at work
Link: 3.1.83
Among my maids: full little, God knows, looking
Link: 3.1.84
Either for such men or such business.
Link: 3.1.85
For her sake that I have been,--for I feel
Link: 3.1.86
The last fit of my greatness,--good your graces,
Link: 3.1.87
Let me have time and counsel for my cause:
Link: 3.1.88
Alas, I am a woman, friendless, hopeless!
Link: 3.1.89

CARDINAL WOLSEY
Madam, you wrong the king's love with these fears:
Link: 3.1.90
Your hopes and friends are infinite.
Link: 3.1.91

QUEEN KATHARINE
In England
Link: 3.1.92
But little for my profit: can you think, lords,
Link: 3.1.93
That any Englishman dare give me counsel?
Link: 3.1.94
Or be a known friend, 'gainst his highness' pleasure,
Link: 3.1.95
Though he be grown so desperate to be honest,
Link: 3.1.96
And live a subject? Nay, forsooth, my friends,
Link: 3.1.97
They that must weigh out my afflictions,
Link: 3.1.98
They that my trust must grow to, live not here:
Link: 3.1.99
They are, as all my other comforts, far hence
Link: 3.1.100
In mine own country, lords.
Link: 3.1.101

CARDINAL CAMPEIUS
I would your grace
Link: 3.1.102
Would leave your griefs, and take my counsel.
Link: 3.1.103

QUEEN KATHARINE
How, sir?
Link: 3.1.104

CARDINAL CAMPEIUS
Put your main cause into the king's protection;
Link: 3.1.105
He's loving and most gracious: 'twill be much
Link: 3.1.106
Both for your honour better and your cause;
Link: 3.1.107
For if the trial of the law o'ertake ye,
Link: 3.1.108
You'll part away disgraced.
Link: 3.1.109

CARDINAL WOLSEY
He tells you rightly.
Link: 3.1.110

QUEEN KATHARINE
Ye tell me what ye wish for both,--my ruin:
Link: 3.1.111
Is this your Christian counsel? out upon ye!
Link: 3.1.112
Heaven is above all yet; there sits a judge
Link: 3.1.113
That no king can corrupt.
Link: 3.1.114

CARDINAL CAMPEIUS
Your rage mistakes us.
Link: 3.1.115

QUEEN KATHARINE
The more shame for ye: holy men I thought ye,
Link: 3.1.116
Upon my soul, two reverend cardinal virtues;
Link: 3.1.117
But cardinal sins and hollow hearts I fear ye:
Link: 3.1.118
Mend 'em, for shame, my lords. Is this your comfort?
Link: 3.1.119
The cordial that ye bring a wretched lady,
Link: 3.1.120
A woman lost among ye, laugh'd at, scorn'd?
Link: 3.1.121
I will not wish ye half my miseries;
Link: 3.1.122
I have more charity: but say, I warn'd ye;
Link: 3.1.123
Take heed, for heaven's sake, take heed, lest at once
Link: 3.1.124
The burthen of my sorrows fall upon ye.
Link: 3.1.125

CARDINAL WOLSEY
Madam, this is a mere distraction;
Link: 3.1.126
You turn the good we offer into envy.
Link: 3.1.127

QUEEN KATHARINE
Ye turn me into nothing: woe upon ye
Link: 3.1.128
And all such false professors! would you have me--
Link: 3.1.129
If you have any justice, any pity;
Link: 3.1.130
If ye be any thing but churchmen's habits--
Link: 3.1.131
Put my sick cause into his hands that hates me?
Link: 3.1.132
Alas, has banish'd me his bed already,
Link: 3.1.133
His love, too long ago! I am old, my lords,
Link: 3.1.134
And all the fellowship I hold now with him
Link: 3.1.135
Is only my obedience. What can happen
Link: 3.1.136
To me above this wretchedness? all your studies
Link: 3.1.137
Make me a curse like this.
Link: 3.1.138

CARDINAL CAMPEIUS
Your fears are worse.
Link: 3.1.139

QUEEN KATHARINE
Have I lived thus long--let me speak myself,
Link: 3.1.140
Since virtue finds no friends--a wife, a true one?
Link: 3.1.141
A woman, I dare say without vain-glory,
Link: 3.1.142
Never yet branded with suspicion?
Link: 3.1.143
Have I with all my full affections
Link: 3.1.144
Still met the king? loved him next heaven?
Link: 3.1.145
obey'd him?
Link: 3.1.146
Been, out of fondness, superstitious to him?
Link: 3.1.147
Almost forgot my prayers to content him?
Link: 3.1.148
And am I thus rewarded? 'tis not well, lords.
Link: 3.1.149
Bring me a constant woman to her husband,
Link: 3.1.150
One that ne'er dream'd a joy beyond his pleasure;
Link: 3.1.151
And to that woman, when she has done most,
Link: 3.1.152
Yet will I add an honour, a great patience.
Link: 3.1.153

CARDINAL WOLSEY
Madam, you wander from the good we aim at.
Link: 3.1.154

QUEEN KATHARINE
My lord, I dare not make myself so guilty,
Link: 3.1.155
To give up willingly that noble title
Link: 3.1.156
Your master wed me to: nothing but death
Link: 3.1.157
Shall e'er divorce my dignities.
Link: 3.1.158

CARDINAL WOLSEY
Pray, hear me.
Link: 3.1.159

QUEEN KATHARINE
Would I had never trod this English earth,
Link: 3.1.160
Or felt the flatteries that grow upon it!
Link: 3.1.161
Ye have angels' faces, but heaven knows your hearts.
Link: 3.1.162
What will become of me now, wretched lady!
Link: 3.1.163
I am the most unhappy woman living.
Link: 3.1.164
Alas, poor wenches, where are now your fortunes!
Link: 3.1.165
Shipwreck'd upon a kingdom, where no pity,
Link: 3.1.166
No friend, no hope; no kindred weep for me;
Link: 3.1.167
Almost no grave allow'd me: like the lily,
Link: 3.1.168
That once was mistress of the field and flourish'd,
Link: 3.1.169
I'll hang my head and perish.
Link: 3.1.170

CARDINAL WOLSEY
If your grace
Link: 3.1.171
Could but be brought to know our ends are honest,
Link: 3.1.172
You'ld feel more comfort: why should we, good lady,
Link: 3.1.173
Upon what cause, wrong you? alas, our places,
Link: 3.1.174
The way of our profession is against it:
Link: 3.1.175
We are to cure such sorrows, not to sow 'em.
Link: 3.1.176
For goodness' sake, consider what you do;
Link: 3.1.177
How you may hurt yourself, ay, utterly
Link: 3.1.178
Grow from the king's acquaintance, by this carriage.
Link: 3.1.179
The hearts of princes kiss obedience,
Link: 3.1.180
So much they love it; but to stubborn spirits
Link: 3.1.181
They swell, and grow as terrible as storms.
Link: 3.1.182
I know you have a gentle, noble temper,
Link: 3.1.183
A soul as even as a calm: pray, think us
Link: 3.1.184
Those we profess, peace-makers, friends, and servants.
Link: 3.1.185

CARDINAL CAMPEIUS
Madam, you'll find it so. You wrong your virtues
Link: 3.1.186
With these weak women's fears: a noble spirit,
Link: 3.1.187
As yours was put into you, ever casts
Link: 3.1.188
Such doubts, as false coin, from it. The king loves you;
Link: 3.1.189
Beware you lose it not: for us, if you please
Link: 3.1.190
To trust us in your business, we are ready
Link: 3.1.191
To use our utmost studies in your service.
Link: 3.1.192

QUEEN KATHARINE
Do what ye will, my lords: and, pray, forgive me,
Link: 3.1.193
If I have used myself unmannerly;
Link: 3.1.194
You know I am a woman, lacking wit
Link: 3.1.195
To make a seemly answer to such persons.
Link: 3.1.196
Pray, do my service to his majesty:
Link: 3.1.197
He has my heart yet; and shall have my prayers
Link: 3.1.198
While I shall have my life. Come, reverend fathers,
Link: 3.1.199
Bestow your counsels on me: she now begs,
Link: 3.1.200
That little thought, when she set footing here,
Link: 3.1.201
She should have bought her dignities so dear.
Link: 3.1.202

Exeunt

SCENE II. Ante-chamber to KING HENRY VIII's apartment.

In Scene 2 of Act 3, a conversation takes place between two gentlemen who are discussing the upcoming trial of Queen Katherine. They express their sympathy for her and their doubts about the legitimacy of the charges against her. They also discuss the powerful influence of the Duke of Norfolk and his role in the trial.

The men are interrupted by the arrival of the Duke himself, who enters with a group of lords. The Duke is eager to ensure a guilty verdict for Katherine, but the other men express their reservations about the fairness of the trial. The Duke dismisses their concerns and insists that the trial will proceed as planned.

As the conversation continues, the Duke becomes increasingly agitated and aggressive. He accuses the other men of being sympathetic to Katherine and threatens them with violence. The men are taken aback by his behavior and begin to question his fitness for his position of power.

The scene ends with the Duke storming out in anger, leaving the other men to ponder the implications of his actions. They realize that the trial will be a pivotal moment in the history of their country, with far-reaching consequences for the monarchy and the people of England.

Enter NORFOLK, SUFFOLK, SURREY, and Chamberlain

NORFOLK
If you will now unite in your complaints,
Link: 3.2.1
And force them with a constancy, the cardinal
Link: 3.2.2
Cannot stand under them: if you omit
Link: 3.2.3
The offer of this time, I cannot promise
Link: 3.2.4
But that you shall sustain moe new disgraces,
Link: 3.2.5
With these you bear already.
Link: 3.2.6

SURREY
I am joyful
Link: 3.2.7
To meet the least occasion that may give me
Link: 3.2.8
Remembrance of my father-in-law, the duke,
Link: 3.2.9
To be revenged on him.
Link: 3.2.10

SUFFOLK
Which of the peers
Link: 3.2.11
Have uncontemn'd gone by him, or at least
Link: 3.2.12
Strangely neglected? when did he regard
Link: 3.2.13
The stamp of nobleness in any person
Link: 3.2.14
Out of himself?
Link: 3.2.15

Chamberlain
My lords, you speak your pleasures:
Link: 3.2.16
What he deserves of you and me I know;
Link: 3.2.17
What we can do to him, though now the time
Link: 3.2.18
Gives way to us, I much fear. If you cannot
Link: 3.2.19
Bar his access to the king, never attempt
Link: 3.2.20
Any thing on him; for he hath a witchcraft
Link: 3.2.21
Over the king in's tongue.
Link: 3.2.22

NORFOLK
O, fear him not;
Link: 3.2.23
His spell in that is out: the king hath found
Link: 3.2.24
Matter against him that for ever mars
Link: 3.2.25
The honey of his language. No, he's settled,
Link: 3.2.26
Not to come off, in his displeasure.
Link: 3.2.27

SURREY
I should be glad to hear such news as this
Link: 3.2.29
Once every hour.
Link: 3.2.30

NORFOLK
Believe it, this is true:
Link: 3.2.31
In the divorce his contrary proceedings
Link: 3.2.32
Are all unfolded wherein he appears
Link: 3.2.33
As I would wish mine enemy.
Link: 3.2.34

SURREY
How came
Link: 3.2.35
His practises to light?
Link: 3.2.36

SUFFOLK
Most strangely.
Link: 3.2.37

SURREY
O, how, how?
Link: 3.2.38

SUFFOLK
The cardinal's letters to the pope miscarried,
Link: 3.2.39
And came to the eye o' the king: wherein was read,
Link: 3.2.40
How that the cardinal did entreat his holiness
Link: 3.2.41
To stay the judgment o' the divorce; for if
Link: 3.2.42
It did take place, 'I do,' quoth he, 'perceive
Link: 3.2.43
My king is tangled in affection to
Link: 3.2.44
A creature of the queen's, Lady Anne Bullen.'
Link: 3.2.45

SURREY
Has the king this?
Link: 3.2.46

SUFFOLK
Believe it.
Link: 3.2.47

SURREY
Will this work?
Link: 3.2.48

Chamberlain
The king in this perceives him, how he coasts
Link: 3.2.49
And hedges his own way. But in this point
Link: 3.2.50
All his tricks founder, and he brings his physic
Link: 3.2.51
After his patient's death: the king already
Link: 3.2.52
Hath married the fair lady.
Link: 3.2.53

SURREY
Would he had!
Link: 3.2.54

SUFFOLK
May you be happy in your wish, my lord
Link: 3.2.55
For, I profess, you have it.
Link: 3.2.56

SURREY
Now, all my joy
Link: 3.2.57
Trace the conjunction!
Link: 3.2.58

SUFFOLK
My amen to't!
Link: 3.2.59

NORFOLK
All men's!
Link: 3.2.60

SUFFOLK
There's order given for her coronation:
Link: 3.2.61
Marry, this is yet but young, and may be left
Link: 3.2.62
To some ears unrecounted. But, my lords,
Link: 3.2.63
She is a gallant creature, and complete
Link: 3.2.64
In mind and feature: I persuade me, from her
Link: 3.2.65
Will fall some blessing to this land, which shall
Link: 3.2.66
In it be memorised.
Link: 3.2.67

SURREY
But, will the king
Link: 3.2.68
Digest this letter of the cardinal's?
Link: 3.2.69
The Lord forbid!
Link: 3.2.70

NORFOLK
Marry, amen!
Link: 3.2.71

SUFFOLK
No, no;
Link: 3.2.72
There be moe wasps that buzz about his nose
Link: 3.2.73
Will make this sting the sooner. Cardinal Campeius
Link: 3.2.74
Is stol'n away to Rome; hath ta'en no leave;
Link: 3.2.75
Has left the cause o' the king unhandled; and
Link: 3.2.76
Is posted, as the agent of our cardinal,
Link: 3.2.77
To second all his plot. I do assure you
Link: 3.2.78
The king cried Ha! at this.
Link: 3.2.79

Chamberlain
Now, God incense him,
Link: 3.2.80
And let him cry Ha! louder!
Link: 3.2.81

NORFOLK
But, my lord,
Link: 3.2.82
When returns Cranmer?
Link: 3.2.83

SUFFOLK
He is return'd in his opinions; which
Link: 3.2.84
Have satisfied the king for his divorce,
Link: 3.2.85
Together with all famous colleges
Link: 3.2.86
Almost in Christendom: shortly, I believe,
Link: 3.2.87
His second marriage shall be publish'd, and
Link: 3.2.88
Her coronation. Katharine no more
Link: 3.2.89
Shall be call'd queen, but princess dowager
Link: 3.2.90
And widow to Prince Arthur.
Link: 3.2.91

NORFOLK
This same Cranmer's
Link: 3.2.92
A worthy fellow, and hath ta'en much pain
Link: 3.2.93
In the king's business.
Link: 3.2.94

SUFFOLK
He has; and we shall see him
Link: 3.2.95
For it an archbishop.
Link: 3.2.96

NORFOLK
So I hear.
Link: 3.2.97

SUFFOLK
'Tis so.
Link: 3.2.98
The cardinal!
Link: 3.2.99

Enter CARDINAL WOLSEY and CROMWELL

NORFOLK
Observe, observe, he's moody.
Link: 3.2.100

CARDINAL WOLSEY
The packet, Cromwell.
Link: 3.2.101
Gave't you the king?
Link: 3.2.102

CROMWELL
To his own hand, in's bedchamber.
Link: 3.2.103

CARDINAL WOLSEY
Look'd he o' the inside of the paper?
Link: 3.2.104

CROMWELL
Presently
Link: 3.2.105
He did unseal them: and the first he view'd,
Link: 3.2.106
He did it with a serious mind; a heed
Link: 3.2.107
Was in his countenance. You he bade
Link: 3.2.108
Attend him here this morning.
Link: 3.2.109

CARDINAL WOLSEY
Is he ready
Link: 3.2.110
To come abroad?
Link: 3.2.111

CROMWELL
I think, by this he is.
Link: 3.2.112

CARDINAL WOLSEY
Leave me awhile.
Link: 3.2.113
It shall be to the Duchess of Alencon,
Link: 3.2.114
The French king's sister: he shall marry her.
Link: 3.2.115
Anne Bullen! No; I'll no Anne Bullens for him:
Link: 3.2.116
There's more in't than fair visage. Bullen!
Link: 3.2.117
No, we'll no Bullens. Speedily I wish
Link: 3.2.118
To hear from Rome. The Marchioness of Pembroke!
Link: 3.2.119

NORFOLK
He's discontented.
Link: 3.2.120

SUFFOLK
May be, he hears the king
Link: 3.2.121
Does whet his anger to him.
Link: 3.2.122

SURREY
Sharp enough,
Link: 3.2.123
Lord, for thy justice!
Link: 3.2.124

CARDINAL WOLSEY
(Aside) The late queen's gentlewoman,
Link: 3.2.125
a knight's daughter,
Link: 3.2.126
To be her mistress' mistress! the queen's queen!
Link: 3.2.127
This candle burns not clear: 'tis I must snuff it;
Link: 3.2.128
Then out it goes. What though I know her virtuous
Link: 3.2.129
And well deserving? yet I know her for
Link: 3.2.130
A spleeny Lutheran; and not wholesome to
Link: 3.2.131
Our cause, that she should lie i' the bosom of
Link: 3.2.132
Our hard-ruled king. Again, there is sprung up
Link: 3.2.133
An heretic, an arch one, Cranmer; one
Link: 3.2.134
Hath crawl'd into the favour of the king,
Link: 3.2.135
And is his oracle.
Link: 3.2.136

NORFOLK
He is vex'd at something.
Link: 3.2.137

SURREY
I would 'twere something that would fret the string,
Link: 3.2.138
The master-cord on's heart!
Link: 3.2.139

Enter KING HENRY VIII, reading of a schedule, and LOVELL

SUFFOLK
The king, the king!
Link: 3.2.140

KING HENRY VIII
What piles of wealth hath he accumulated
Link: 3.2.141
To his own portion! and what expense by the hour
Link: 3.2.142
Seems to flow from him! How, i' the name of thrift,
Link: 3.2.143
Does he rake this together! Now, my lords,
Link: 3.2.144
Saw you the cardinal?
Link: 3.2.145

NORFOLK
My lord, we have
Link: 3.2.146
Stood here observing him: some strange commotion
Link: 3.2.147
Is in his brain: he bites his lip, and starts;
Link: 3.2.148
Stops on a sudden, looks upon the ground,
Link: 3.2.149
Then lays his finger on his temple, straight
Link: 3.2.150
Springs out into fast gait; then stops again,
Link: 3.2.151
Strikes his breast hard, and anon he casts
Link: 3.2.152
His eye against the moon: in most strange postures
Link: 3.2.153
We have seen him set himself.
Link: 3.2.154

KING HENRY VIII
It may well be;
Link: 3.2.155
There is a mutiny in's mind. This morning
Link: 3.2.156
Papers of state he sent me to peruse,
Link: 3.2.157
As I required: and wot you what I found
Link: 3.2.158
There,--on my conscience, put unwittingly?
Link: 3.2.159
Forsooth, an inventory, thus importing;
Link: 3.2.160
The several parcels of his plate, his treasure,
Link: 3.2.161
Rich stuffs, and ornaments of household; which
Link: 3.2.162
I find at such proud rate, that it out-speaks
Link: 3.2.163
Possession of a subject.
Link: 3.2.164

NORFOLK
It's heaven's will:
Link: 3.2.165
Some spirit put this paper in the packet,
Link: 3.2.166
To bless your eye withal.
Link: 3.2.167

KING HENRY VIII
If we did think
Link: 3.2.168
His contemplation were above the earth,
Link: 3.2.169
And fix'd on spiritual object, he should still
Link: 3.2.170
Dwell in his musings: but I am afraid
Link: 3.2.171
His thinkings are below the moon, not worth
Link: 3.2.172
His serious considering.
Link: 3.2.173

King HENRY VIII takes his seat; whispers LOVELL, who goes to CARDINAL WOLSEY

CARDINAL WOLSEY
Heaven forgive me!
Link: 3.2.174
Ever God bless your highness!
Link: 3.2.175

KING HENRY VIII
Good my lord,
Link: 3.2.176
You are full of heavenly stuff, and bear the inventory
Link: 3.2.177
Of your best graces in your mind; the which
Link: 3.2.178
You were now running o'er: you have scarce time
Link: 3.2.179
To steal from spiritual leisure a brief span
Link: 3.2.180
To keep your earthly audit: sure, in that
Link: 3.2.181
I deem you an ill husband, and am glad
Link: 3.2.182
To have you therein my companion.
Link: 3.2.183

CARDINAL WOLSEY
For holy offices I have a time; a time
Link: 3.2.185
To think upon the part of business which
Link: 3.2.186
I bear i' the state; and nature does require
Link: 3.2.187
Her times of preservation, which perforce
Link: 3.2.188
I, her frail son, amongst my brethren mortal,
Link: 3.2.189
Must give my tendence to.
Link: 3.2.190

KING HENRY VIII
You have said well.
Link: 3.2.191

CARDINAL WOLSEY
And ever may your highness yoke together,
Link: 3.2.192
As I will lend you cause, my doing well
Link: 3.2.193
With my well saying!
Link: 3.2.194

KING HENRY VIII
'Tis well said again;
Link: 3.2.195
And 'tis a kind of good deed to say well:
Link: 3.2.196
And yet words are no deeds. My father loved you:
Link: 3.2.197
His said he did; and with his deed did crown
Link: 3.2.198
His word upon you. Since I had my office,
Link: 3.2.199
I have kept you next my heart; have not alone
Link: 3.2.200
Employ'd you where high profits might come home,
Link: 3.2.201
But pared my present havings, to bestow
Link: 3.2.202
My bounties upon you.
Link: 3.2.203

CARDINAL WOLSEY
(Aside) What should this mean?
Link: 3.2.204

SURREY
(Aside) The Lord increase this business!
Link: 3.2.205

KING HENRY VIII
Have I not made you,
Link: 3.2.206
The prime man of the state? I pray you, tell me,
Link: 3.2.207
If what I now pronounce you have found true:
Link: 3.2.208
And, if you may confess it, say withal,
Link: 3.2.209
If you are bound to us or no. What say you?
Link: 3.2.210

CARDINAL WOLSEY
My sovereign, I confess your royal graces,
Link: 3.2.211
Shower'd on me daily, have been more than could
Link: 3.2.212
My studied purposes requite; which went
Link: 3.2.213
Beyond all man's endeavours: my endeavours
Link: 3.2.214
Have ever come too short of my desires,
Link: 3.2.215
Yet filed with my abilities: mine own ends
Link: 3.2.216
Have been mine so that evermore they pointed
Link: 3.2.217
To the good of your most sacred person and
Link: 3.2.218
The profit of the state. For your great graces
Link: 3.2.219
Heap'd upon me, poor undeserver, I
Link: 3.2.220
Can nothing render but allegiant thanks,
Link: 3.2.221
My prayers to heaven for you, my loyalty,
Link: 3.2.222
Which ever has and ever shall be growing,
Link: 3.2.223
Till death, that winter, kill it.
Link: 3.2.224

KING HENRY VIII
Fairly answer'd;
Link: 3.2.225
A loyal and obedient subject is
Link: 3.2.226
Therein illustrated: the honour of it
Link: 3.2.227
Does pay the act of it; as, i' the contrary,
Link: 3.2.228
The foulness is the punishment. I presume
Link: 3.2.229
That, as my hand has open'd bounty to you,
Link: 3.2.230
My heart dropp'd love, my power rain'd honour, more
Link: 3.2.231
On you than any; so your hand and heart,
Link: 3.2.232
Your brain, and every function of your power,
Link: 3.2.233
Should, notwithstanding that your bond of duty,
Link: 3.2.234
As 'twere in love's particular, be more
Link: 3.2.235
To me, your friend, than any.
Link: 3.2.236

CARDINAL WOLSEY
I do profess
Link: 3.2.237
That for your highness' good I ever labour'd
Link: 3.2.238
More than mine own; that am, have, and will be--
Link: 3.2.239
Though all the world should crack their duty to you,
Link: 3.2.240
And throw it from their soul; though perils did
Link: 3.2.241
Abound, as thick as thought could make 'em, and
Link: 3.2.242
Appear in forms more horrid,--yet my duty,
Link: 3.2.243
As doth a rock against the chiding flood,
Link: 3.2.244
Should the approach of this wild river break,
Link: 3.2.245
And stand unshaken yours.
Link: 3.2.246

KING HENRY VIII
'Tis nobly spoken:
Link: 3.2.247
Take notice, lords, he has a loyal breast,
Link: 3.2.248
For you have seen him open't. Read o'er this;
Link: 3.2.249
And after, this: and then to breakfast with
Link: 3.2.250
What appetite you have.
Link: 3.2.251

Exit KING HENRY VIII, frowning upon CARDINAL WOLSEY: the Nobles throng after him, smiling and whispering

CARDINAL WOLSEY
What should this mean?
Link: 3.2.252
What sudden anger's this? how have I reap'd it?
Link: 3.2.253
He parted frowning from me, as if ruin
Link: 3.2.254
Leap'd from his eyes: so looks the chafed lion
Link: 3.2.255
Upon the daring huntsman that has gall'd him;
Link: 3.2.256
Then makes him nothing. I must read this paper;
Link: 3.2.257
I fear, the story of his anger. 'Tis so;
Link: 3.2.258
This paper has undone me: 'tis the account
Link: 3.2.259
Of all that world of wealth I have drawn together
Link: 3.2.260
For mine own ends; indeed, to gain the popedom,
Link: 3.2.261
And fee my friends in Rome. O negligence!
Link: 3.2.262
Fit for a fool to fall by: what cross devil
Link: 3.2.263
Made me put this main secret in the packet
Link: 3.2.264
I sent the king? Is there no way to cure this?
Link: 3.2.265
No new device to beat this from his brains?
Link: 3.2.266
I know 'twill stir him strongly; yet I know
Link: 3.2.267
A way, if it take right, in spite of fortune
Link: 3.2.268
Will bring me off again. What's this? 'To the Pope!'
Link: 3.2.269
The letter, as I live, with all the business
Link: 3.2.270
I writ to's holiness. Nay then, farewell!
Link: 3.2.271
I have touch'd the highest point of all my greatness;
Link: 3.2.272
And, from that full meridian of my glory,
Link: 3.2.273
I haste now to my setting: I shall fall
Link: 3.2.274
Like a bright exhalation m the evening,
Link: 3.2.275
And no man see me more.
Link: 3.2.276

Re-enter to CARDINAL WOLSEY, NORFOLK and SUFFOLK, SURREY, and the Chamberlain

NORFOLK
Hear the king's pleasure, cardinal: who commands you
Link: 3.2.277
To render up the great seal presently
Link: 3.2.278
Into our hands; and to confine yourself
Link: 3.2.279
To Asher House, my Lord of Winchester's,
Link: 3.2.280
Till you hear further from his highness.
Link: 3.2.281

CARDINAL WOLSEY
Where's your commission, lords? words cannot carry
Link: 3.2.283
Authority so weighty.
Link: 3.2.284

SUFFOLK
Who dare cross 'em,
Link: 3.2.285
Bearing the king's will from his mouth expressly?
Link: 3.2.286

CARDINAL WOLSEY
Till I find more than will or words to do it,
Link: 3.2.287
I mean your malice, know, officious lords,
Link: 3.2.288
I dare and must deny it. Now I feel
Link: 3.2.289
Of what coarse metal ye are moulded, envy:
Link: 3.2.290
How eagerly ye follow my disgraces,
Link: 3.2.291
As if it fed ye! and how sleek and wanton
Link: 3.2.292
Ye appear in every thing may bring my ruin!
Link: 3.2.293
Follow your envious courses, men of malice;
Link: 3.2.294
You have Christian warrant for 'em, and, no doubt,
Link: 3.2.295
In time will find their fit rewards. That seal,
Link: 3.2.296
You ask with such a violence, the king,
Link: 3.2.297
Mine and your master, with his own hand gave me;
Link: 3.2.298
Bade me enjoy it, with the place and honours,
Link: 3.2.299
During my life; and, to confirm his goodness,
Link: 3.2.300
Tied it by letters-patents: now, who'll take it?
Link: 3.2.301

SURREY
The king, that gave it.
Link: 3.2.302

CARDINAL WOLSEY
It must be himself, then.
Link: 3.2.303

SURREY
Thou art a proud traitor, priest.
Link: 3.2.304

CARDINAL WOLSEY
Proud lord, thou liest:
Link: 3.2.305
Within these forty hours Surrey durst better
Link: 3.2.306
Have burnt that tongue than said so.
Link: 3.2.307

SURREY
Thy ambition,
Link: 3.2.308
Thou scarlet sin, robb'd this bewailing land
Link: 3.2.309
Of noble Buckingham, my father-in-law:
Link: 3.2.310
The heads of all thy brother cardinals,
Link: 3.2.311
With thee and all thy best parts bound together,
Link: 3.2.312
Weigh'd not a hair of his. Plague of your policy!
Link: 3.2.313
You sent me deputy for Ireland;
Link: 3.2.314
Far from his succor, from the king, from all
Link: 3.2.315
That might have mercy on the fault thou gavest him;
Link: 3.2.316
Whilst your great goodness, out of holy pity,
Link: 3.2.317
Absolved him with an axe.
Link: 3.2.318

CARDINAL WOLSEY
This, and all else
Link: 3.2.319
This talking lord can lay upon my credit,
Link: 3.2.320
I answer is most false. The duke by law
Link: 3.2.321
Found his deserts: how innocent I was
Link: 3.2.322
From any private malice in his end,
Link: 3.2.323
His noble jury and foul cause can witness.
Link: 3.2.324
If I loved many words, lord, I should tell you
Link: 3.2.325
You have as little honesty as honour,
Link: 3.2.326
That in the way of loyalty and truth
Link: 3.2.327
Toward the king, my ever royal master,
Link: 3.2.328
Dare mate a sounder man than Surrey can be,
Link: 3.2.329
And all that love his follies.
Link: 3.2.330

SURREY
By my soul,
Link: 3.2.331
Your long coat, priest, protects you; thou
Link: 3.2.332
shouldst feel
Link: 3.2.333
My sword i' the life-blood of thee else. My lords,
Link: 3.2.334
Can ye endure to hear this arrogance?
Link: 3.2.335
And from this fellow? if we live thus tamely,
Link: 3.2.336
To be thus jaded by a piece of scarlet,
Link: 3.2.337
Farewell nobility; let his grace go forward,
Link: 3.2.338
And dare us with his cap like larks.
Link: 3.2.339

CARDINAL WOLSEY
All goodness
Link: 3.2.340
Is poison to thy stomach.
Link: 3.2.341

SURREY
Yes, that goodness
Link: 3.2.342
Of gleaning all the land's wealth into one,
Link: 3.2.343
Into your own hands, cardinal, by extortion;
Link: 3.2.344
The goodness of your intercepted packets
Link: 3.2.345
You writ to the pope against the king: your goodness,
Link: 3.2.346
Since you provoke me, shall be most notorious.
Link: 3.2.347
My Lord of Norfolk, as you are truly noble,
Link: 3.2.348
As you respect the common good, the state
Link: 3.2.349
Of our despised nobility, our issues,
Link: 3.2.350
Who, if he live, will scarce be gentlemen,
Link: 3.2.351
Produce the grand sum of his sins, the articles
Link: 3.2.352
Collected from his life. I'll startle you
Link: 3.2.353
Worse than the scaring bell, when the brown wench
Link: 3.2.354
Lay kissing in your arms, lord cardinal.
Link: 3.2.355

CARDINAL WOLSEY
How much, methinks, I could despise this man,
Link: 3.2.356
But that I am bound in charity against it!
Link: 3.2.357

NORFOLK
Those articles, my lord, are in the king's hand:
Link: 3.2.358
But, thus much, they are foul ones.
Link: 3.2.359

CARDINAL WOLSEY
So much fairer
Link: 3.2.360
And spotless shall mine innocence arise,
Link: 3.2.361
When the king knows my truth.
Link: 3.2.362

SURREY
This cannot save you:
Link: 3.2.363
I thank my memory, I yet remember
Link: 3.2.364
Some of these articles; and out they shall.
Link: 3.2.365
Now, if you can blush and cry 'guilty,' cardinal,
Link: 3.2.366
You'll show a little honesty.
Link: 3.2.367

CARDINAL WOLSEY
Speak on, sir;
Link: 3.2.368
I dare your worst objections: if I blush,
Link: 3.2.369
It is to see a nobleman want manners.
Link: 3.2.370

SURREY
I had rather want those than my head. Have at you!
Link: 3.2.371
First, that, without the king's assent or knowledge,
Link: 3.2.372
You wrought to be a legate; by which power
Link: 3.2.373
You maim'd the jurisdiction of all bishops.
Link: 3.2.374

NORFOLK
Then, that in all you writ to Rome, or else
Link: 3.2.375
To foreign princes, 'Ego et Rex meus'
Link: 3.2.376
Was still inscribed; in which you brought the king
Link: 3.2.377
To be your servant.
Link: 3.2.378

SUFFOLK
Then that, without the knowledge
Link: 3.2.379
Either of king or council, when you went
Link: 3.2.380
Ambassador to the emperor, you made bold
Link: 3.2.381
To carry into Flanders the great seal.
Link: 3.2.382

SURREY
Item, you sent a large commission
Link: 3.2.383
To Gregory de Cassado, to conclude,
Link: 3.2.384
Without the king's will or the state's allowance,
Link: 3.2.385
A league between his highness and Ferrara.
Link: 3.2.386

SUFFOLK
That, out of mere ambition, you have caused
Link: 3.2.387
Your holy hat to be stamp'd on the king's coin.
Link: 3.2.388

SURREY
Then that you have sent innumerable substance--
Link: 3.2.389
By what means got, I leave to your own conscience--
Link: 3.2.390
To furnish Rome, and to prepare the ways
Link: 3.2.391
You have for dignities; to the mere undoing
Link: 3.2.392
Of all the kingdom. Many more there are;
Link: 3.2.393
Which, since they are of you, and odious,
Link: 3.2.394
I will not taint my mouth with.
Link: 3.2.395

Chamberlain
O my lord,
Link: 3.2.396
Press not a falling man too far! 'tis virtue:
Link: 3.2.397
His faults lie open to the laws; let them,
Link: 3.2.398
Not you, correct him. My heart weeps to see him
Link: 3.2.399
So little of his great self.
Link: 3.2.400

SURREY
I forgive him.
Link: 3.2.401

SUFFOLK
Lord cardinal, the king's further pleasure is,
Link: 3.2.402
Because all those things you have done of late,
Link: 3.2.403
By your power legatine, within this kingdom,
Link: 3.2.404
Fall into the compass of a praemunire,
Link: 3.2.405
That therefore such a writ be sued against you;
Link: 3.2.406
To forfeit all your goods, lands, tenements,
Link: 3.2.407
Chattels, and whatsoever, and to be
Link: 3.2.408
Out of the king's protection. This is my charge.
Link: 3.2.409

NORFOLK
And so we'll leave you to your meditations
Link: 3.2.410
How to live better. For your stubborn answer
Link: 3.2.411
About the giving back the great seal to us,
Link: 3.2.412
The king shall know it, and, no doubt, shall thank you.
Link: 3.2.413
So fare you well, my little good lord cardinal.
Link: 3.2.414

Exeunt all but CARDINAL WOLSEY

CARDINAL WOLSEY
So farewell to the little good you bear me.
Link: 3.2.415
Farewell! a long farewell, to all my greatness!
Link: 3.2.416
This is the state of man: to-day he puts forth
Link: 3.2.417
The tender leaves of hopes; to-morrow blossoms,
Link: 3.2.418
And bears his blushing honours thick upon him;
Link: 3.2.419
The third day comes a frost, a killing frost,
Link: 3.2.420
And, when he thinks, good easy man, full surely
Link: 3.2.421
His greatness is a-ripening, nips his root,
Link: 3.2.422
And then he falls, as I do. I have ventured,
Link: 3.2.423
Like little wanton boys that swim on bladders,
Link: 3.2.424
This many summers in a sea of glory,
Link: 3.2.425
But far beyond my depth: my high-blown pride
Link: 3.2.426
At length broke under me and now has left me,
Link: 3.2.427
Weary and old with service, to the mercy
Link: 3.2.428
Of a rude stream, that must for ever hide me.
Link: 3.2.429
Vain pomp and glory of this world, I hate ye:
Link: 3.2.430
I feel my heart new open'd. O, how wretched
Link: 3.2.431
Is that poor man that hangs on princes' favours!
Link: 3.2.432
There is, betwixt that smile we would aspire to,
Link: 3.2.433
That sweet aspect of princes, and their ruin,
Link: 3.2.434
More pangs and fears than wars or women have:
Link: 3.2.435
And when he falls, he falls like Lucifer,
Link: 3.2.436
Never to hope again.
Link: 3.2.437
Why, how now, Cromwell!
Link: 3.2.438

CROMWELL
I have no power to speak, sir.
Link: 3.2.439

CARDINAL WOLSEY
What, amazed
Link: 3.2.440
At my misfortunes? can thy spirit wonder
Link: 3.2.441
A great man should decline? Nay, an you weep,
Link: 3.2.442
I am fall'n indeed.
Link: 3.2.443

CROMWELL
How does your grace?
Link: 3.2.444

CARDINAL WOLSEY
Why, well;
Link: 3.2.445
Never so truly happy, my good Cromwell.
Link: 3.2.446
I know myself now; and I feel within me
Link: 3.2.447
A peace above all earthly dignities,
Link: 3.2.448
A still and quiet conscience. The king has cured me,
Link: 3.2.449
I humbly thank his grace; and from these shoulders,
Link: 3.2.450
These ruin'd pillars, out of pity, taken
Link: 3.2.451
A load would sink a navy, too much honour:
Link: 3.2.452
O, 'tis a burthen, Cromwell, 'tis a burthen
Link: 3.2.453
Too heavy for a man that hopes for heaven!
Link: 3.2.454

CROMWELL
I am glad your grace has made that right use of it.
Link: 3.2.455

CARDINAL WOLSEY
I hope I have: I am able now, methinks,
Link: 3.2.456
Out of a fortitude of soul I feel,
Link: 3.2.457
To endure more miseries and greater far
Link: 3.2.458
Than my weak-hearted enemies dare offer.
Link: 3.2.459
What news abroad?
Link: 3.2.460

CROMWELL
The heaviest and the worst
Link: 3.2.461
Is your displeasure with the king.
Link: 3.2.462

CARDINAL WOLSEY
God bless him!
Link: 3.2.463

CROMWELL
The next is, that Sir Thomas More is chosen
Link: 3.2.464
Lord chancellor in your place.
Link: 3.2.465

CARDINAL WOLSEY
That's somewhat sudden:
Link: 3.2.466
But he's a learned man. May he continue
Link: 3.2.467
Long in his highness' favour, and do justice
Link: 3.2.468
For truth's sake and his conscience; that his bones,
Link: 3.2.469
When he has run his course and sleeps in blessings,
Link: 3.2.470
May have a tomb of orphans' tears wept on em! What more?
Link: 3.2.471

CROMWELL
That Cranmer is return'd with welcome,
Link: 3.2.472
Install'd lord archbishop of Canterbury.
Link: 3.2.473

CARDINAL WOLSEY
That's news indeed.
Link: 3.2.474

CROMWELL
Last, that the Lady Anne,
Link: 3.2.475
Whom the king hath in secrecy long married,
Link: 3.2.476
This day was view'd in open as his queen,
Link: 3.2.477
Going to chapel; and the voice is now
Link: 3.2.478
Only about her coronation.
Link: 3.2.479

CARDINAL WOLSEY
There was the weight that pull'd me down. O Cromwell,
Link: 3.2.480
The king has gone beyond me: all my glories
Link: 3.2.481
In that one woman I have lost for ever:
Link: 3.2.482
No sun shall ever usher forth mine honours,
Link: 3.2.483
Or gild again the noble troops that waited
Link: 3.2.484
Upon my smiles. Go, get thee from me, Cromwell;
Link: 3.2.485
I am a poor fall'n man, unworthy now
Link: 3.2.486
To be thy lord and master: seek the king;
Link: 3.2.487
That sun, I pray, may never set! I have told him
Link: 3.2.488
What and how true thou art: he will advance thee;
Link: 3.2.489
Some little memory of me will stir him--
Link: 3.2.490
I know his noble nature--not to let
Link: 3.2.491
Thy hopeful service perish too: good Cromwell,
Link: 3.2.492
Neglect him not; make use now, and provide
Link: 3.2.493
For thine own future safety.
Link: 3.2.494

CROMWELL
O my lord,
Link: 3.2.495
Must I, then, leave you? must I needs forego
Link: 3.2.496
So good, so noble and so true a master?
Link: 3.2.497
Bear witness, all that have not hearts of iron,
Link: 3.2.498
With what a sorrow Cromwell leaves his lord.
Link: 3.2.499
The king shall have my service: but my prayers
Link: 3.2.500
For ever and for ever shall be yours.
Link: 3.2.501

CARDINAL WOLSEY
Cromwell, I did not think to shed a tear
Link: 3.2.502
In all my miseries; but thou hast forced me,
Link: 3.2.503
Out of thy honest truth, to play the woman.
Link: 3.2.504
Let's dry our eyes: and thus far hear me, Cromwell;
Link: 3.2.505
And, when I am forgotten, as I shall be,
Link: 3.2.506
And sleep in dull cold marble, where no mention
Link: 3.2.507
Of me more must be heard of, say, I taught thee,
Link: 3.2.508
Say, Wolsey, that once trod the ways of glory,
Link: 3.2.509
And sounded all the depths and shoals of honour,
Link: 3.2.510
Found thee a way, out of his wreck, to rise in;
Link: 3.2.511
A sure and safe one, though thy master miss'd it.
Link: 3.2.512
Mark but my fall, and that that ruin'd me.
Link: 3.2.513
Cromwell, I charge thee, fling away ambition:
Link: 3.2.514
By that sin fell the angels; how can man, then,
Link: 3.2.515
The image of his Maker, hope to win by it?
Link: 3.2.516
Love thyself last: cherish those hearts that hate thee;
Link: 3.2.517
Corruption wins not more than honesty.
Link: 3.2.518
Still in thy right hand carry gentle peace,
Link: 3.2.519
To silence envious tongues. Be just, and fear not:
Link: 3.2.520
Let all the ends thou aim'st at be thy country's,
Link: 3.2.521
Thy God's, and truth's; then if thou fall'st,
Link: 3.2.522
O Cromwell,
Link: 3.2.523
Thou fall'st a blessed martyr! Serve the king;
Link: 3.2.524
And,--prithee, lead me in:
Link: 3.2.525
There take an inventory of all I have,
Link: 3.2.526
To the last penny; 'tis the king's: my robe,
Link: 3.2.527
And my integrity to heaven, is all
Link: 3.2.528
I dare now call mine own. O Cromwell, Cromwell!
Link: 3.2.529
Had I but served my God with half the zeal
Link: 3.2.530
I served my king, he would not in mine age
Link: 3.2.531
Have left me naked to mine enemies.
Link: 3.2.532

CROMWELL
Good sir, have patience.
Link: 3.2.533

CARDINAL WOLSEY
So I have. Farewell
Link: 3.2.534
The hopes of court! my hopes in heaven do dwell.
Link: 3.2.535

Exeunt

Act IV

Act 4 of Henry VIII begins with the trial of Queen Katherine, who is accused of not being a rightful wife to the King. The trial is presided over by Cardinal Wolsey and takes place in front of a panel of judges. Katherine defends herself passionately, insisting that she is the true wife of the King and that he has been misled by those who surround him. However, the verdict goes against her and she is stripped of her title and banished from court.

Following the trial, the focus shifts to the King's new love interest, Anne Boleyn. She is being courted by the King, who is eager to make her his next queen. However, Anne is hesitant and demands that the King marry her before they consummate their relationship. The King agrees, and they are soon married in a secret ceremony.

The rest of Act 4 is dominated by the celebrations surrounding the King's marriage to Anne. There is a grand procession through the streets of London, and everyone is swept up in the excitement of the occasion. The King is pleased with his new wife, and there is a sense of optimism and hope for the future of England.

Overall, Act 4 of Henry VIII is a pivotal moment in the play. It marks the end of Katherine's reign as Queen and the beginning of a new era with Anne Boleyn. The trial and subsequent banishment of Katherine highlights the power struggles that were common in Tudor England, while the celebrations surrounding the King's marriage to Anne show the importance of political alliances and the need for a stable succession.

SCENE I. A street in Westminster.

In Scene 1 of Act 4, two gentlemen discuss the recent events in England, including the downfall of Cardinal Wolsey and the rise of Thomas Cromwell. They also remark on Queen Katherine's deteriorating health and her impending divorce from the King. Suddenly, a messenger arrives with news that the Queen has died.

The gentlemen reflect on Katherine's noble character and her unwavering devotion to the Catholic Church. They also discuss the implications of her death for the King, who is now free to marry his mistress Anne Boleyn. One of the gentlemen predicts that Anne will soon face a similar fate as Katherine, as the King's affections are fickle and unpredictable.

Overall, Scene 1 of Act 4 is a somber and reflective moment in the play, as characters grapple with the consequences of political and personal turmoil. It also foreshadows the coming conflicts and tragedies that will shape the rest of the story.

Enter two Gentlemen, meeting one another

First Gentleman
You're well met once again.
Link: 4.1.1

Second Gentleman
So are you.
Link: 4.1.2

First Gentleman
You come to take your stand here, and behold
Link: 4.1.3
The Lady Anne pass from her coronation?
Link: 4.1.4

Second Gentleman
'Tis all my business. At our last encounter,
Link: 4.1.5
The Duke of Buckingham came from his trial.
Link: 4.1.6

First Gentleman
'Tis very true: but that time offer'd sorrow;
Link: 4.1.7
This, general joy.
Link: 4.1.8

Second Gentleman
'Tis well: the citizens,
Link: 4.1.9
I am sure, have shown at full their royal minds--
Link: 4.1.10
As, let 'em have their rights, they are ever forward--
Link: 4.1.11
In celebration of this day with shows,
Link: 4.1.12
Pageants and sights of honour.
Link: 4.1.13

First Gentleman
Never greater,
Link: 4.1.14
Nor, I'll assure you, better taken, sir.
Link: 4.1.15

Second Gentleman
May I be bold to ask at what that contains,
Link: 4.1.16
That paper in your hand?
Link: 4.1.17

First Gentleman
Yes; 'tis the list
Link: 4.1.18
Of those that claim their offices this day
Link: 4.1.19
By custom of the coronation.
Link: 4.1.20
The Duke of Suffolk is the first, and claims
Link: 4.1.21
To be high-steward; next, the Duke of Norfolk,
Link: 4.1.22
He to be earl marshal: you may read the rest.
Link: 4.1.23

Second Gentleman
I thank you, sir: had I not known those customs,
Link: 4.1.24
I should have been beholding to your paper.
Link: 4.1.25
But, I beseech you, what's become of Katharine,
Link: 4.1.26
The princess dowager? how goes her business?
Link: 4.1.27

First Gentleman
That I can tell you too. The Archbishop
Link: 4.1.28
Of Canterbury, accompanied with other
Link: 4.1.29
Learned and reverend fathers of his order,
Link: 4.1.30
Held a late court at Dunstable, six miles off
Link: 4.1.31
From Ampthill where the princess lay; to which
Link: 4.1.32
She was often cited by them, but appear'd not:
Link: 4.1.33
And, to be short, for not appearance and
Link: 4.1.34
The king's late scruple, by the main assent
Link: 4.1.35
Of all these learned men she was divorced,
Link: 4.1.36
And the late marriage made of none effect
Link: 4.1.37
Since which she was removed to Kimbolton,
Link: 4.1.38
Where she remains now sick.
Link: 4.1.39

Second Gentleman
Alas, good lady!
Link: 4.1.40
The trumpets sound: stand close, the queen is coming.
Link: 4.1.41

Hautboys

THE ORDER OF THE CORONATION

1. A lively flourish of Trumpets.

2. Then, two Judges.

3. Lord Chancellor, with the purse and mace before him.

4. Choristers, singing.

Music

5. Mayor of London, bearing the mace. Then Garter, in his coat of arms, and on his head a gilt copper crown.

6. Marquess Dorset, bearing a sceptre of gold, on his head a demi-coronal of gold. With him, SURREY, bearing the rod of silver with the dove, crowned with an earl's coronet. Collars of SS.

7. SUFFOLK, in his robe of estate, his coronet on his head, bearing a long white wand, as high-steward. With him, NORFOLK, with the rod of marshalship, a coronet on his head. Collars of SS.

8. A canopy borne by four of the Cinque-ports; under it, QUEEN ANNE in her robe; in her hair richly adorned with pearl, crowned. On each side her, the Bishops of London and Winchester.

9. The old Duchess of Norfolk, in a coronal of gold, wrought with flowers, bearing QUEEN ANNE's train.

10. Certain Ladies or Countesses, with plain circlets of gold without flowers.

They pass over the stage in order and state

Second Gentleman
A royal train, believe me. These I know:
Link: 4.1.42
Who's that that bears the sceptre?
Link: 4.1.43

First Gentleman
Marquess Dorset:
Link: 4.1.44
And that the Earl of Surrey, with the rod.
Link: 4.1.45

Second Gentleman
A bold brave gentleman. That should be
Link: 4.1.46
The Duke of Suffolk?
Link: 4.1.47

First Gentleman
'Tis the same: high-steward.
Link: 4.1.48

Second Gentleman
And that my Lord of Norfolk?
Link: 4.1.49

First Gentleman

Second Gentleman
Heaven bless thee!
Link: 4.1.51
Thou hast the sweetest face I ever look'd on.
Link: 4.1.52
Sir, as I have a soul, she is an angel;
Link: 4.1.53
Our king has all the Indies in his arms,
Link: 4.1.54
And more and richer, when he strains that lady:
Link: 4.1.55
I cannot blame his conscience.
Link: 4.1.56

First Gentleman
They that bear
Link: 4.1.57
The cloth of honour over her, are four barons
Link: 4.1.58
Of the Cinque-ports.
Link: 4.1.59

Second Gentleman
Those men are happy; and so are all are near her.
Link: 4.1.60
I take it, she that carries up the train
Link: 4.1.61
Is that old noble lady, Duchess of Norfolk.
Link: 4.1.62

First Gentleman
It is; and all the rest are countesses.
Link: 4.1.63

Second Gentleman
Their coronets say so. These are stars indeed;
Link: 4.1.64
And sometimes falling ones.
Link: 4.1.65

First Gentleman
No more of that.
Link: 4.1.66

Exit procession, and then a great flourish of trumpets

Enter a third Gentleman

First Gentleman
God save you, sir! where have you been broiling?
Link: 4.1.67

Third Gentleman
Among the crowd i' the Abbey; where a finger
Link: 4.1.68
Could not be wedged in more: I am stifled
Link: 4.1.69
With the mere rankness of their joy.
Link: 4.1.70

Second Gentleman
You saw
Link: 4.1.71
The ceremony?
Link: 4.1.72

Third Gentleman
That I did.
Link: 4.1.73

First Gentleman
How was it?
Link: 4.1.74

Third Gentleman
Well worth the seeing.
Link: 4.1.75

Second Gentleman
Good sir, speak it to us.
Link: 4.1.76

Third Gentleman
As well as I am able. The rich stream
Link: 4.1.77
Of lords and ladies, having brought the queen
Link: 4.1.78
To a prepared place in the choir, fell off
Link: 4.1.79
A distance from her; while her grace sat down
Link: 4.1.80
To rest awhile, some half an hour or so,
Link: 4.1.81
In a rich chair of state, opposing freely
Link: 4.1.82
The beauty of her person to the people.
Link: 4.1.83
Believe me, sir, she is the goodliest woman
Link: 4.1.84
That ever lay by man: which when the people
Link: 4.1.85
Had the full view of, such a noise arose
Link: 4.1.86
As the shrouds make at sea in a stiff tempest,
Link: 4.1.87
As loud, and to as many tunes: hats, cloaks--
Link: 4.1.88
Doublets, I think,--flew up; and had their faces
Link: 4.1.89
Been loose, this day they had been lost. Such joy
Link: 4.1.90
I never saw before. Great-bellied women,
Link: 4.1.91
That had not half a week to go, like rams
Link: 4.1.92
In the old time of war, would shake the press,
Link: 4.1.93
And make 'em reel before 'em. No man living
Link: 4.1.94
Could say 'This is my wife' there; all were woven
Link: 4.1.95
So strangely in one piece.
Link: 4.1.96

Second Gentleman
But, what follow'd?
Link: 4.1.97

Third Gentleman
At length her grace rose, and with modest paces
Link: 4.1.98
Came to the altar; where she kneel'd, and saint-like
Link: 4.1.99
Cast her fair eyes to heaven and pray'd devoutly.
Link: 4.1.100
Then rose again and bow'd her to the people:
Link: 4.1.101
When by the Archbishop of Canterbury
Link: 4.1.102
She had all the royal makings of a queen;
Link: 4.1.103
As holy oil, Edward Confessor's crown,
Link: 4.1.104
The rod, and bird of peace, and all such emblems
Link: 4.1.105
Laid nobly on her: which perform'd, the choir,
Link: 4.1.106
With all the choicest music of the kingdom,
Link: 4.1.107
Together sung 'Te Deum.' So she parted,
Link: 4.1.108
And with the same full state paced back again
Link: 4.1.109
To York-place, where the feast is held.
Link: 4.1.110

First Gentleman
You must no more call it York-place, that's past;
Link: 4.1.112
For, since the cardinal fell, that title's lost:
Link: 4.1.113
'Tis now the king's, and call'd Whitehall.
Link: 4.1.114

Third Gentleman
I know it;
Link: 4.1.115
But 'tis so lately alter'd, that the old name
Link: 4.1.116
Is fresh about me.
Link: 4.1.117

Second Gentleman
What two reverend bishops
Link: 4.1.118
Were those that went on each side of the queen?
Link: 4.1.119

Third Gentleman
Stokesly and Gardiner; the one of Winchester,
Link: 4.1.120
Newly preferr'd from the king's secretary,
Link: 4.1.121
The other, London.
Link: 4.1.122

Second Gentleman
He of Winchester
Link: 4.1.123
Is held no great good lover of the archbishop's,
Link: 4.1.124
The virtuous Cranmer.
Link: 4.1.125

Third Gentleman
All the land knows that:
Link: 4.1.126
However, yet there is no great breach; when it comes,
Link: 4.1.127
Cranmer will find a friend will not shrink from him.
Link: 4.1.128

Second Gentleman
Who may that be, I pray you?
Link: 4.1.129

Third Gentleman
Thomas Cromwell;
Link: 4.1.130
A man in much esteem with the king, and truly
Link: 4.1.131
A worthy friend. The king has made him master
Link: 4.1.132
O' the jewel house,
Link: 4.1.133
And one, already, of the privy council.
Link: 4.1.134

Second Gentleman
He will deserve more.
Link: 4.1.135

Third Gentleman
Yes, without all doubt.
Link: 4.1.136
Come, gentlemen, ye shall go my way, which
Link: 4.1.137
Is to the court, and there ye shall be my guests:
Link: 4.1.138
Something I can command. As I walk thither,
Link: 4.1.139
I'll tell ye more.
Link: 4.1.140

Both
You may command us, sir.
Link: 4.1.141

Exeunt

SCENE II. Kimbolton.

Act 4, Scene 2 takes place in an antechamber where the Duke of Norfolk and the Duke of Suffolk enter and discuss the impending downfall of the Duke of Buckingham. They are soon joined by the Lord Chamberlain and the Earl of Surrey, who express sympathy for Buckingham and concern for their own safety in the volatile political climate at court.

The group is interrupted by the entrance of the King's messenger, who announces that the King wishes to see the Duke of Norfolk and the Duke of Suffolk. The Lord Chamberlain and the Earl of Surrey are also summoned, leaving the stage empty except for a solitary gentleman who muses on the corrupt nature of politics and the fall of powerful men.

Shortly after, Buckingham is brought in under guard and the gentleman confronts him, accusing him of treason and urging him to confess. Buckingham maintains his innocence and proclaims his loyalty to the King, but is taken away to await trial. The scene ends with the gentleman reflecting on the fleeting nature of power and the inevitability of downfall.

Enter KATHARINE, Dowager, sick; led between GRIFFITH, her gentleman usher, and PATIENCE, her woman

GRIFFITH
How does your grace?
Link: 4.2.1

KATHARINE
O Griffith, sick to death!
Link: 4.2.2
My legs, like loaden branches, bow to the earth,
Link: 4.2.3
Willing to leave their burthen. Reach a chair:
Link: 4.2.4
So; now, methinks, I feel a little ease.
Link: 4.2.5
Didst thou not tell me, Griffith, as thou led'st me,
Link: 4.2.6
That the great child of honour, Cardinal Wolsey, Was dead?
Link: 4.2.7

GRIFFITH
Yes, madam; but I think your grace,
Link: 4.2.8
Out of the pain you suffer'd, gave no ear to't.
Link: 4.2.9

KATHARINE
Prithee, good Griffith, tell me how he died:
Link: 4.2.10
If well, he stepp'd before me, happily
Link: 4.2.11
For my example.
Link: 4.2.12

GRIFFITH
Well, the voice goes, madam:
Link: 4.2.13
For after the stout Earl Northumberland
Link: 4.2.14
Arrested him at York, and brought him forward,
Link: 4.2.15
As a man sorely tainted, to his answer,
Link: 4.2.16
He fell sick suddenly, and grew so ill
Link: 4.2.17
He could not sit his mule.
Link: 4.2.18

KATHARINE
Alas, poor man!
Link: 4.2.19

GRIFFITH
At last, with easy roads, he came to Leicester,
Link: 4.2.20
Lodged in the abbey; where the reverend abbot,
Link: 4.2.21
With all his covent, honourably received him;
Link: 4.2.22
To whom he gave these words, 'O, father abbot,
Link: 4.2.23
An old man, broken with the storms of state,
Link: 4.2.24
Is come to lay his weary bones among ye;
Link: 4.2.25
Give him a little earth for charity!'
Link: 4.2.26
So went to bed; where eagerly his sickness
Link: 4.2.27
Pursued him still: and, three nights after this,
Link: 4.2.28
About the hour of eight, which he himself
Link: 4.2.29
Foretold should be his last, full of repentance,
Link: 4.2.30
Continual meditations, tears, and sorrows,
Link: 4.2.31
He gave his honours to the world again,
Link: 4.2.32
His blessed part to heaven, and slept in peace.
Link: 4.2.33

KATHARINE
So may he rest; his faults lie gently on him!
Link: 4.2.34
Yet thus far, Griffith, give me leave to speak him,
Link: 4.2.35
And yet with charity. He was a man
Link: 4.2.36
Of an unbounded stomach, ever ranking
Link: 4.2.37
Himself with princes; one that, by suggestion,
Link: 4.2.38
Tied all the kingdom: simony was fair-play;
Link: 4.2.39
His own opinion was his law: i' the presence
Link: 4.2.40
He would say untruths; and be ever double
Link: 4.2.41
Both in his words and meaning: he was never,
Link: 4.2.42
But where he meant to ruin, pitiful:
Link: 4.2.43
His promises were, as he then was, mighty;
Link: 4.2.44
But his performance, as he is now, nothing:
Link: 4.2.45
Of his own body he was ill, and gave
Link: 4.2.46
The clergy in example.
Link: 4.2.47

GRIFFITH
Noble madam,
Link: 4.2.48
Men's evil manners live in brass; their virtues
Link: 4.2.49
We write in water. May it please your highness
Link: 4.2.50
To hear me speak his good now?
Link: 4.2.51

KATHARINE
Yes, good Griffith;
Link: 4.2.52
I were malicious else.
Link: 4.2.53

GRIFFITH
This cardinal,
Link: 4.2.54
Though from an humble stock, undoubtedly
Link: 4.2.55
Was fashion'd to much honour from his cradle.
Link: 4.2.56
He was a scholar, and a ripe and good one;
Link: 4.2.57
Exceeding wise, fair-spoken, and persuading:
Link: 4.2.58
Lofty and sour to them that loved him not;
Link: 4.2.59
But to those men that sought him sweet as summer.
Link: 4.2.60
And though he were unsatisfied in getting,
Link: 4.2.61
Which was a sin, yet in bestowing, madam,
Link: 4.2.62
He was most princely: ever witness for him
Link: 4.2.63
Those twins Of learning that he raised in you,
Link: 4.2.64
Ipswich and Oxford! one of which fell with him,
Link: 4.2.65
Unwilling to outlive the good that did it;
Link: 4.2.66
The other, though unfinish'd, yet so famous,
Link: 4.2.67
So excellent in art, and still so rising,
Link: 4.2.68
That Christendom shall ever speak his virtue.
Link: 4.2.69
His overthrow heap'd happiness upon him;
Link: 4.2.70
For then, and not till then, he felt himself,
Link: 4.2.71
And found the blessedness of being little:
Link: 4.2.72
And, to add greater honours to his age
Link: 4.2.73
Than man could give him, he died fearing God.
Link: 4.2.74

KATHARINE
After my death I wish no other herald,
Link: 4.2.75
No other speaker of my living actions,
Link: 4.2.76
To keep mine honour from corruption,
Link: 4.2.77
But such an honest chronicler as Griffith.
Link: 4.2.78
Whom I most hated living, thou hast made me,
Link: 4.2.79
With thy religious truth and modesty,
Link: 4.2.80
Now in his ashes honour: peace be with him!
Link: 4.2.81
Patience, be near me still; and set me lower:
Link: 4.2.82
I have not long to trouble thee. Good Griffith,
Link: 4.2.83
Cause the musicians play me that sad note
Link: 4.2.84
I named my knell, whilst I sit meditating
Link: 4.2.85
On that celestial harmony I go to.
Link: 4.2.86

Sad and solemn music

GRIFFITH
She is asleep: good wench, let's sit down quiet,
Link: 4.2.87
For fear we wake her: softly, gentle Patience.
Link: 4.2.88

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

KATHARINE
Spirits of peace, where are ye? are ye all gone,
Link: 4.2.89
And leave me here in wretchedness behind ye?
Link: 4.2.90

GRIFFITH
Madam, we are here.
Link: 4.2.91

KATHARINE
It is not you I call for:
Link: 4.2.92
Saw ye none enter since I slept?
Link: 4.2.93

GRIFFITH
None, madam.
Link: 4.2.94

KATHARINE
No? Saw you not, even now, a blessed troop
Link: 4.2.95
Invite me to a banquet; whose bright faces
Link: 4.2.96
Cast thousand beams upon me, like the sun?
Link: 4.2.97
They promised me eternal happiness;
Link: 4.2.98
And brought me garlands, Griffith, which I feel
Link: 4.2.99
I am not worthy yet to wear: I shall, assuredly.
Link: 4.2.100

GRIFFITH
I am most joyful, madam, such good dreams
Link: 4.2.101
Possess your fancy.
Link: 4.2.102

KATHARINE
Bid the music leave,
Link: 4.2.103
They are harsh and heavy to me.
Link: 4.2.104

Music ceases

PATIENCE
Do you note
Link: 4.2.105
How much her grace is alter'd on the sudden?
Link: 4.2.106
How long her face is drawn? how pale she looks,
Link: 4.2.107
And of an earthy cold? Mark her eyes!
Link: 4.2.108

GRIFFITH
She is going, wench: pray, pray.
Link: 4.2.109

PATIENCE
Heaven comfort her!
Link: 4.2.110

Enter a Messenger

Messenger
An't like your grace,--
Link: 4.2.111

KATHARINE
You are a saucy fellow:
Link: 4.2.112
Deserve we no more reverence?
Link: 4.2.113

GRIFFITH
You are to blame,
Link: 4.2.114
Knowing she will not lose her wonted greatness,
Link: 4.2.115
To use so rude behavior; go to, kneel.
Link: 4.2.116

Messenger
I humbly do entreat your highness' pardon;
Link: 4.2.117
My haste made me unmannerly. There is staying
Link: 4.2.118
A gentleman, sent from the king, to see you.
Link: 4.2.119

KATHARINE
Admit him entrance, Griffith: but this fellow
Link: 4.2.120
Let me ne'er see again.
Link: 4.2.121
If my sight fail not,
Link: 4.2.122
You should be lord ambassador from the emperor,
Link: 4.2.123
My royal nephew, and your name Capucius.
Link: 4.2.124

CAPUCIUS
Madam, the same; your servant.
Link: 4.2.125

KATHARINE
O, my lord,
Link: 4.2.126
The times and titles now are alter'd strangely
Link: 4.2.127
With me since first you knew me. But, I pray you,
Link: 4.2.128
What is your pleasure with me?
Link: 4.2.129

CAPUCIUS
Noble lady,
Link: 4.2.130
First mine own service to your grace; the next,
Link: 4.2.131
The king's request that I would visit you;
Link: 4.2.132
Who grieves much for your weakness, and by me
Link: 4.2.133
Sends you his princely commendations,
Link: 4.2.134
And heartily entreats you take good comfort.
Link: 4.2.135

KATHARINE
O my good lord, that comfort comes too late;
Link: 4.2.136
'Tis like a pardon after execution:
Link: 4.2.137
That gentle physic, given in time, had cured me;
Link: 4.2.138
But now I am past an comforts here, but prayers.
Link: 4.2.139
How does his highness?
Link: 4.2.140

CAPUCIUS
Madam, in good health.
Link: 4.2.141

KATHARINE
So may he ever do! and ever flourish,
Link: 4.2.142
When I shall dwell with worms, and my poor name
Link: 4.2.143
Banish'd the kingdom! Patience, is that letter,
Link: 4.2.144
I caused you write, yet sent away?
Link: 4.2.145

PATIENCE
No, madam.
Link: 4.2.146

Giving it to KATHARINE

KATHARINE
Sir, I most humbly pray you to deliver
Link: 4.2.147
This to my lord the king.
Link: 4.2.148

CAPUCIUS
Most willing, madam.
Link: 4.2.149

KATHARINE
In which I have commended to his goodness
Link: 4.2.150
The model of our chaste loves, his young daughter;
Link: 4.2.151
The dews of heaven fall thick in blessings on her!
Link: 4.2.152
Beseeching him to give her virtuous breeding--
Link: 4.2.153
She is young, and of a noble modest nature,
Link: 4.2.154
I hope she will deserve well,--and a little
Link: 4.2.155
To love her for her mother's sake, that loved him,
Link: 4.2.156
Heaven knows how dearly. My next poor petition
Link: 4.2.157
Is, that his noble grace would have some pity
Link: 4.2.158
Upon my wretched women, that so long
Link: 4.2.159
Have follow'd both my fortunes faithfully:
Link: 4.2.160
Of which there is not one, I dare avow,
Link: 4.2.161
And now I should not lie, but will deserve
Link: 4.2.162
For virtue and true beauty of the soul,
Link: 4.2.163
For honesty and decent carriage,
Link: 4.2.164
A right good husband, let him be a noble
Link: 4.2.165
And, sure, those men are happy that shall have 'em.
Link: 4.2.166
The last is, for my men; they are the poorest,
Link: 4.2.167
But poverty could never draw 'em from me;
Link: 4.2.168
That they may have their wages duly paid 'em,
Link: 4.2.169
And something over to remember me by:
Link: 4.2.170
If heaven had pleased to have given me longer life
Link: 4.2.171
And able means, we had not parted thus.
Link: 4.2.172
These are the whole contents: and, good my lord,
Link: 4.2.173
By that you love the dearest in this world,
Link: 4.2.174
As you wish Christian peace to souls departed,
Link: 4.2.175
Stand these poor people's friend, and urge the king
Link: 4.2.176
To do me this last right.
Link: 4.2.177

CAPUCIUS
By heaven, I will,
Link: 4.2.178
Or let me lose the fashion of a man!
Link: 4.2.179

KATHARINE
I thank you, honest lord. Remember me
Link: 4.2.180
In all humility unto his highness:
Link: 4.2.181
Say his long trouble now is passing
Link: 4.2.182
Out of this world; tell him, in death I bless'd him,
Link: 4.2.183
For so I will. Mine eyes grow dim. Farewell,
Link: 4.2.184
My lord. Griffith, farewell. Nay, Patience,
Link: 4.2.185
You must not leave me yet: I must to bed;
Link: 4.2.186
Call in more women. When I am dead, good wench,
Link: 4.2.187
Let me be used with honour: strew me over
Link: 4.2.188
With maiden flowers, that all the world may know
Link: 4.2.189
I was a chaste wife to my grave: embalm me,
Link: 4.2.190
Then lay me forth: although unqueen'd, yet like
Link: 4.2.191
A queen, and daughter to a king, inter me.
Link: 4.2.192
I can no more.
Link: 4.2.193

Exeunt, leading KATHARINE

Act V

Act 5 of Henry VIII begins with the trial of the Duke of Buckingham, who has been accused of treason. Despite proclaiming his innocence, he is found guilty and sentenced to death. However, the King shows mercy and changes the sentence to exile.

Meanwhile, the Queen gives birth to a baby girl, but she is very ill and not expected to survive. The King prays for her recovery, and she miraculously begins to improve. The King and Queen are overjoyed and name the baby Elizabeth.

As celebrations of the baby's birth are underway, news arrives that the French have declared war on England. The King leaves to lead his army, and the Queen is left behind to govern in his absence.

Cardinal Wolsey, who has been a prominent figure throughout the play, is now in disgrace. He is stripped of his titles and banished from the court. He reflects on his downfall and realizes that his own ambition has been his undoing.

The play ends with the birth of Princess Elizabeth being hailed as a sign of hope for the future of England. The King returns victorious from the war, and the court celebrates the peace that has been achieved.

SCENE I. London. A gallery in the palace.

In Scene 1 of Act 5, two gentlemen discuss the upcoming trial of Queen Katherine, who has been accused of adultery and treason by her husband, King Henry VIII. The gentlemen express sympathy for Katherine, who they believe is innocent and has been mistreated by the king. They also discuss the political implications of the trial, noting that it could lead to unrest and rebellion among the common people.

As they speak, a group of lords and bishops enter, including the Duke of Norfolk and the Archbishop of Canterbury. They discuss the trial and express their support for the king's decision to divorce Katherine and marry his new love, Anne Boleyn. The Archbishop of Canterbury argues that the king's actions are justified under the law and that Katherine's refusal to accept the divorce is treason.

The gentlemen challenge the archbishop's arguments, pointing out the inconsistencies in the case against Katherine and the lack of evidence of her guilt. However, the lords and bishops are unmoved, and the scene ends with the group preparing to attend the trial and deliver their verdict.

Enter GARDINER, Bishop of Winchester, a Page with a torch before him, met by LOVELL

GARDINER
It's one o'clock, boy, is't not?
Link: 5.1.1

Boy
It hath struck.
Link: 5.1.2

GARDINER
These should be hours for necessities,
Link: 5.1.3
Not for delights; times to repair our nature
Link: 5.1.4
With comforting repose, and not for us
Link: 5.1.5
To waste these times. Good hour of night, Sir Thomas!
Link: 5.1.6
Whither so late?
Link: 5.1.7

LOVELL
Came you from the king, my lord
Link: 5.1.8

GARDINER
I did, Sir Thomas: and left him at primero
Link: 5.1.9
With the Duke of Suffolk.
Link: 5.1.10

LOVELL
I must to him too,
Link: 5.1.11
Before he go to bed. I'll take my leave.
Link: 5.1.12

GARDINER
Not yet, Sir Thomas Lovell. What's the matter?
Link: 5.1.13
It seems you are in haste: an if there be
Link: 5.1.14
No great offence belongs to't, give your friend
Link: 5.1.15
Some touch of your late business: affairs, that walk,
Link: 5.1.16
As they say spirits do, at midnight, have
Link: 5.1.17
In them a wilder nature than the business
Link: 5.1.18
That seeks dispatch by day.
Link: 5.1.19

LOVELL
My lord, I love you;
Link: 5.1.20
And durst commend a secret to your ear
Link: 5.1.21
Much weightier than this work. The queen's in labour,
Link: 5.1.22
They say, in great extremity; and fear'd
Link: 5.1.23
She'll with the labour end.
Link: 5.1.24

GARDINER
The fruit she goes with
Link: 5.1.25
I pray for heartily, that it may find
Link: 5.1.26
Good time, and live: but for the stock, Sir Thomas,
Link: 5.1.27
I wish it grubb'd up now.
Link: 5.1.28

LOVELL
Methinks I could
Link: 5.1.29
Cry the amen; and yet my conscience says
Link: 5.1.30
She's a good creature, and, sweet lady, does
Link: 5.1.31
Deserve our better wishes.
Link: 5.1.32

GARDINER
But, sir, sir,
Link: 5.1.33
Hear me, Sir Thomas: you're a gentleman
Link: 5.1.34
Of mine own way; I know you wise, religious;
Link: 5.1.35
And, let me tell you, it will ne'er be well,
Link: 5.1.36
'Twill not, Sir Thomas Lovell, take't of me,
Link: 5.1.37
Till Cranmer, Cromwell, her two hands, and she,
Link: 5.1.38
Sleep in their graves.
Link: 5.1.39

LOVELL
Now, sir, you speak of two
Link: 5.1.40
The most remark'd i' the kingdom. As for Cromwell,
Link: 5.1.41
Beside that of the jewel house, is made master
Link: 5.1.42
O' the rolls, and the king's secretary; further, sir,
Link: 5.1.43
Stands in the gap and trade of moe preferments,
Link: 5.1.44
With which the time will load him. The archbishop
Link: 5.1.45
Is the king's hand and tongue; and who dare speak
Link: 5.1.46
One syllable against him?
Link: 5.1.47

GARDINER
Yes, yes, Sir Thomas,
Link: 5.1.48
There are that dare; and I myself have ventured
Link: 5.1.49
To speak my mind of him: and indeed this day,
Link: 5.1.50
Sir, I may tell it you, I think I have
Link: 5.1.51
Incensed the lords o' the council, that he is,
Link: 5.1.52
For so I know he is, they know he is,
Link: 5.1.53
A most arch heretic, a pestilence
Link: 5.1.54
That does infect the land: with which they moved
Link: 5.1.55
Have broken with the king; who hath so far
Link: 5.1.56
Given ear to our complaint, of his great grace
Link: 5.1.57
And princely care foreseeing those fell mischiefs
Link: 5.1.58
Our reasons laid before him, hath commanded
Link: 5.1.59
To-morrow morning to the council-board
Link: 5.1.60
He be convented. He's a rank weed, Sir Thomas,
Link: 5.1.61
And we must root him out. From your affairs
Link: 5.1.62
I hinder you too long: good night, Sir Thomas.
Link: 5.1.63

LOVELL
Many good nights, my lord: I rest your servant.
Link: 5.1.64

Exeunt GARDINER and Page

Enter KING HENRY VIII and SUFFOLK

KING HENRY VIII
Charles, I will play no more tonight;
Link: 5.1.65
My mind's not on't; you are too hard for me.
Link: 5.1.66

SUFFOLK
Sir, I did never win of you before.
Link: 5.1.67

KING HENRY VIII
But little, Charles;
Link: 5.1.68
Nor shall not, when my fancy's on my play.
Link: 5.1.69
Now, Lovell, from the queen what is the news?
Link: 5.1.70

LOVELL
I could not personally deliver to her
Link: 5.1.71
What you commanded me, but by her woman
Link: 5.1.72
I sent your message; who return'd her thanks
Link: 5.1.73
In the great'st humbleness, and desired your highness
Link: 5.1.74
Most heartily to pray for her.
Link: 5.1.75

KING HENRY VIII
What say'st thou, ha?
Link: 5.1.76
To pray for her? what, is she crying out?
Link: 5.1.77

LOVELL
So said her woman; and that her sufferance made
Link: 5.1.78
Almost each pang a death.
Link: 5.1.79

KING HENRY VIII
Alas, good lady!
Link: 5.1.80

SUFFOLK
God safely quit her of her burthen, and
Link: 5.1.81
With gentle travail, to the gladding of
Link: 5.1.82
Your highness with an heir!
Link: 5.1.83

KING HENRY VIII
'Tis midnight, Charles;
Link: 5.1.84
Prithee, to bed; and in thy prayers remember
Link: 5.1.85
The estate of my poor queen. Leave me alone;
Link: 5.1.86
For I must think of that which company
Link: 5.1.87
Would not be friendly to.
Link: 5.1.88

SUFFOLK
I wish your highness
Link: 5.1.89
A quiet night; and my good mistress will
Link: 5.1.90
Remember in my prayers.
Link: 5.1.91

KING HENRY VIII
Charles, good night.
Link: 5.1.92
Well, sir, what follows?
Link: 5.1.93

DENNY
Sir, I have brought my lord the archbishop,
Link: 5.1.94
As you commanded me.
Link: 5.1.95

KING HENRY VIII
Ha! Canterbury?
Link: 5.1.96

DENNY
Ay, my good lord.
Link: 5.1.97

KING HENRY VIII
'Tis true: where is he, Denny?
Link: 5.1.98

DENNY
He attends your highness' pleasure.
Link: 5.1.99

Exit DENNY

LOVELL
(Aside) This is about that which the bishop spake:
Link: 5.1.100
I am happily come hither.
Link: 5.1.101

Re-enter DENNY, with CRANMER

KING HENRY VIII
Avoid the gallery.
Link: 5.1.102
Ha! I have said. Be gone. What!
Link: 5.1.103

Exeunt LOVELL and DENNY

CRANMER
I am fearful: wherefore frowns he thus?
Link: 5.1.105
'Tis his aspect of terror. All's not well.
Link: 5.1.106

KING HENRY VIII
How now, my lord! you desire to know
Link: 5.1.107
Wherefore I sent for you.
Link: 5.1.108

CRANMER
(Kneeling) It is my duty
Link: 5.1.109
To attend your highness' pleasure.
Link: 5.1.110

KING HENRY VIII
Pray you, arise,
Link: 5.1.111
My good and gracious Lord of Canterbury.
Link: 5.1.112
Come, you and I must walk a turn together;
Link: 5.1.113
I have news to tell you: come, come, give me your hand.
Link: 5.1.114
Ah, my good lord, I grieve at what I speak,
Link: 5.1.115
And am right sorry to repeat what follows
Link: 5.1.116
I have, and most unwillingly, of late
Link: 5.1.117
Heard many grievous, I do say, my lord,
Link: 5.1.118
Grievous complaints of you; which, being consider'd,
Link: 5.1.119
Have moved us and our council, that you shall
Link: 5.1.120
This morning come before us; where, I know,
Link: 5.1.121
You cannot with such freedom purge yourself,
Link: 5.1.122
But that, till further trial in those charges
Link: 5.1.123
Which will require your answer, you must take
Link: 5.1.124
Your patience to you, and be well contented
Link: 5.1.125
To make your house our Tower: you a brother of us,
Link: 5.1.126
It fits we thus proceed, or else no witness
Link: 5.1.127
Would come against you.
Link: 5.1.128

CRANMER
(Kneeling)
Link: 5.1.129
I humbly thank your highness;
Link: 5.1.130
And am right glad to catch this good occasion
Link: 5.1.131
Most throughly to be winnow'd, where my chaff
Link: 5.1.132
And corn shall fly asunder: for, I know,
Link: 5.1.133
There's none stands under more calumnious tongues
Link: 5.1.134
Than I myself, poor man.
Link: 5.1.135

KING HENRY VIII
Stand up, good Canterbury:
Link: 5.1.136
Thy truth and thy integrity is rooted
Link: 5.1.137
In us, thy friend: give me thy hand, stand up:
Link: 5.1.138
Prithee, let's walk. Now, by my holidame.
Link: 5.1.139
What manner of man are you? My lord, I look'd
Link: 5.1.140
You would have given me your petition, that
Link: 5.1.141
I should have ta'en some pains to bring together
Link: 5.1.142
Yourself and your accusers; and to have heard you,
Link: 5.1.143
Without indurance, further.
Link: 5.1.144

CRANMER
Most dread liege,
Link: 5.1.145
The good I stand on is my truth and honesty:
Link: 5.1.146
If they shall fail, I, with mine enemies,
Link: 5.1.147
Will triumph o'er my person; which I weigh not,
Link: 5.1.148
Being of those virtues vacant. I fear nothing
Link: 5.1.149
What can be said against me.
Link: 5.1.150

KING HENRY VIII
Know you not
Link: 5.1.151
How your state stands i' the world, with the whole world?
Link: 5.1.152
Your enemies are many, and not small; their practises
Link: 5.1.153
Must bear the same proportion; and not ever
Link: 5.1.154
The justice and the truth o' the question carries
Link: 5.1.155
The due o' the verdict with it: at what ease
Link: 5.1.156
Might corrupt minds procure knaves as corrupt
Link: 5.1.157
To swear against you? such things have been done.
Link: 5.1.158
You are potently opposed; and with a malice
Link: 5.1.159
Of as great size. Ween you of better luck,
Link: 5.1.160
I mean, in perjured witness, than your master,
Link: 5.1.161
Whose minister you are, whiles here he lived
Link: 5.1.162
Upon this naughty earth? Go to, go to;
Link: 5.1.163
You take a precipice for no leap of danger,
Link: 5.1.164
And woo your own destruction.
Link: 5.1.165

CRANMER
God and your majesty
Link: 5.1.166
Protect mine innocence, or I fall into
Link: 5.1.167
The trap is laid for me!
Link: 5.1.168

KING HENRY VIII
Be of good cheer;
Link: 5.1.169
They shall no more prevail than we give way to.
Link: 5.1.170
Keep comfort to you; and this morning see
Link: 5.1.171
You do appear before them: if they shall chance,
Link: 5.1.172
In charging you with matters, to commit you,
Link: 5.1.173
The best persuasions to the contrary
Link: 5.1.174
Fail not to use, and with what vehemency
Link: 5.1.175
The occasion shall instruct you: if entreaties
Link: 5.1.176
Will render you no remedy, this ring
Link: 5.1.177
Deliver them, and your appeal to us
Link: 5.1.178
There make before them. Look, the good man weeps!
Link: 5.1.179
He's honest, on mine honour. God's blest mother!
Link: 5.1.180
I swear he is true--hearted; and a soul
Link: 5.1.181
None better in my kingdom. Get you gone,
Link: 5.1.182
And do as I have bid you.
Link: 5.1.183
He has strangled
Link: 5.1.184
His language in his tears.
Link: 5.1.185

Enter Old Lady, LOVELL following

Gentleman
(Within) Come back: what mean you?
Link: 5.1.186

Old Lady
I'll not come back; the tidings that I bring
Link: 5.1.187
Will make my boldness manners. Now, good angels
Link: 5.1.188
Fly o'er thy royal head, and shade thy person
Link: 5.1.189
Under their blessed wings!
Link: 5.1.190

KING HENRY VIII
Now, by thy looks
Link: 5.1.191
I guess thy message. Is the queen deliver'd?
Link: 5.1.192
Say, ay; and of a boy.
Link: 5.1.193

Old Lady
Ay, ay, my liege;
Link: 5.1.194
And of a lovely boy: the God of heaven
Link: 5.1.195
Both now and ever bless her! 'tis a girl,
Link: 5.1.196
Promises boys hereafter. Sir, your queen
Link: 5.1.197
Desires your visitation, and to be
Link: 5.1.198
Acquainted with this stranger 'tis as like you
Link: 5.1.199
As cherry is to cherry.
Link: 5.1.200

KING HENRY VIII

LOVELL

KING HENRY VIII
Give her an hundred marks. I'll to the queen.
Link: 5.1.203

Exit

Old Lady
An hundred marks! By this light, I'll ha' more.
Link: 5.1.204
An ordinary groom is for such payment.
Link: 5.1.205
I will have more, or scold it out of him.
Link: 5.1.206
Said I for this, the girl was like to him?
Link: 5.1.207
I will have more, or else unsay't; and now,
Link: 5.1.208
While it is hot, I'll put it to the issue.
Link: 5.1.209

Exeunt

SCENE II. Before the council-chamber. Pursuivants, Pages, c. attending.

In Scene 2 of Act 5, two gentlemen discuss the upcoming trial of Queen Katherine. They speculate about the outcome and the potential consequences for the kingdom. The gentlemen are interrupted by the arrival of the Duke of Norfolk and the Duke of Suffolk, who bring news that the Queen is very ill and may not survive much longer.

Despite her illness, the King has ordered that the trial proceed as planned. The Duke of Norfolk expresses his concern about the Queen's health and his own discomfort with the situation, but the Duke of Suffolk is more pragmatic and argues that the trial must go on to ensure the stability of the kingdom.

The gentlemen continue to discuss the possible outcomes of the trial, with some believing that the Queen will be found guilty and others believing that she will be acquitted. They also discuss the potential impact on the King's relationship with the Catholic Church, as well as the political implications of the trial.

As the discussion continues, the gentlemen are joined by the Lord Chamberlain and Sir Thomas Lovell. They discuss the Queen's illness and the King's reaction to it, as well as the possibility of a new marriage for the King if the Queen is found guilty and their marriage is annulled.

The scene ends with the gentlemen expressing their hope that the Queen will recover and the trial will be called off, but also acknowledging the possibility that things may not go as they hope.

Enter CRANMER

CRANMER
I hope I am not too late; and yet the gentleman,
Link: 5.2.1
That was sent to me from the council, pray'd me
Link: 5.2.2
To make great haste. All fast? what means this? Ho!
Link: 5.2.3
Who waits there? Sure, you know me?
Link: 5.2.4

Enter Keeper

Keeper
Yes, my lord;
Link: 5.2.5
But yet I cannot help you.
Link: 5.2.6

CRANMER

Enter DOCTOR BUTTS

Keeper
Your grace must wait till you be call'd for.
Link: 5.2.8

CRANMER

DOCTOR BUTTS
(Aside) This is a piece of malice. I am glad
Link: 5.2.10
I came this way so happily: the king
Link: 5.2.11
Shall understand it presently.
Link: 5.2.12

Exit

CRANMER
(Aside) 'Tis Butts,
Link: 5.2.13
The king's physician: as he pass'd along,
Link: 5.2.14
How earnestly he cast his eyes upon me!
Link: 5.2.15
Pray heaven, he sound not my disgrace! For certain,
Link: 5.2.16
This is of purpose laid by some that hate me--
Link: 5.2.17
God turn their hearts! I never sought their malice--
Link: 5.2.18
To quench mine honour: they would shame to make me
Link: 5.2.19
Wait else at door, a fellow-counsellor,
Link: 5.2.20
'Mong boys, grooms, and lackeys. But their pleasures
Link: 5.2.21
Must be fulfill'd, and I attend with patience.
Link: 5.2.22

Enter the KING HENRY VIII and DOCTOR BUTTS at a window above

DOCTOR BUTTS
I'll show your grace the strangest sight--
Link: 5.2.23

KING HENRY VIII
What's that, Butts?
Link: 5.2.24

DOCTOR BUTTS
I think your highness saw this many a day.
Link: 5.2.25

KING HENRY VIII
Body o' me, where is it?
Link: 5.2.26

DOCTOR BUTTS
There, my lord:
Link: 5.2.27
The high promotion of his grace of Canterbury;
Link: 5.2.28
Who holds his state at door, 'mongst pursuivants,
Link: 5.2.29
Pages, and footboys.
Link: 5.2.30

KING HENRY VIII
Ha! 'tis he, indeed:
Link: 5.2.31
Is this the honour they do one another?
Link: 5.2.32
'Tis well there's one above 'em yet. I had thought
Link: 5.2.33
They had parted so much honesty among 'em
Link: 5.2.34
At least, good manners, as not thus to suffer
Link: 5.2.35
A man of his place, and so near our favour,
Link: 5.2.36
To dance attendance on their lordships' pleasures,
Link: 5.2.37
And at the door too, like a post with packets.
Link: 5.2.38
By holy Mary, Butts, there's knavery:
Link: 5.2.39
Let 'em alone, and draw the curtain close:
Link: 5.2.40
We shall hear more anon.
Link: 5.2.41

Exeunt

SCENE III. The Council-Chamber.

Scene 3 of Act 5 takes place at the palace in London. Archbishop Cranmer is brought before the Privy Council to face charges of heresy. He is accused of promoting false doctrines and is informed that he will be stripped of his office and executed.

Cranmer pleads his case, but the council members are unmoved. However, the Duke of Norfolk suggests that they seek the King's opinion before carrying out the sentence. The council agrees and sends for King Henry VIII.

Meanwhile, Cranmer is left alone to contemplate his impending death. He reflects on his life, confesses his sins, and prays for forgiveness. He then prepares himself for execution.

When King Henry arrives, he is informed of the situation and asked for his judgment. To everyone's surprise, the King orders that Cranmer be released and his sentence be commuted to house arrest. He explains that he had a dream in which Cranmer appeared to him and prophesied that he would have a son. The King believes that this dream is a sign of Cranmer's innocence and decides to spare his life.

The council members are shocked by the King's decision, but they obey his orders. Cranmer is released and taken to the Tower of London, where he will spend the rest of his days in relative comfort.

Enter Chancellor; places himself at the upper end of the table on the left hand; a seat being left void above him, as for CRANMER's seat. SUFFOLK, NORFOLK, SURREY, Chamberlain, GARDINER, seat themselves in order on each side. CROMWELL at lower end, as secretary. Keeper at the door

Chancellor
Speak to the business, master-secretary:
Link: 5.3.1
Why are we met in council?
Link: 5.3.2

CROMWELL
Please your honours,
Link: 5.3.3
The chief cause concerns his grace of Canterbury.
Link: 5.3.4

GARDINER
Has he had knowledge of it?
Link: 5.3.5

CROMWELL

NORFOLK
Who waits there?
Link: 5.3.7

Keeper
Without, my noble lords?
Link: 5.3.8

GARDINER

Keeper
My lord archbishop;
Link: 5.3.10
And has done half an hour, to know your pleasures.
Link: 5.3.11

Chancellor
Let him come in.
Link: 5.3.12

Keeper
Your grace may enter now.
Link: 5.3.13

CRANMER enters and approaches the council-table

Chancellor
My good lord archbishop, I'm very sorry
Link: 5.3.14
To sit here at this present, and behold
Link: 5.3.15
That chair stand empty: but we all are men,
Link: 5.3.16
In our own natures frail, and capable
Link: 5.3.17
Of our flesh; few are angels: out of which frailty
Link: 5.3.18
And want of wisdom, you, that best should teach us,
Link: 5.3.19
Have misdemean'd yourself, and not a little,
Link: 5.3.20
Toward the king first, then his laws, in filling
Link: 5.3.21
The whole realm, by your teaching and your chaplains,
Link: 5.3.22
For so we are inform'd, with new opinions,
Link: 5.3.23
Divers and dangerous; which are heresies,
Link: 5.3.24
And, not reform'd, may prove pernicious.
Link: 5.3.25

GARDINER
Which reformation must be sudden too,
Link: 5.3.26
My noble lords; for those that tame wild horses
Link: 5.3.27
Pace 'em not in their hands to make 'em gentle,
Link: 5.3.28
But stop their mouths with stubborn bits, and spur 'em,
Link: 5.3.29
Till they obey the manage. If we suffer,
Link: 5.3.30
Out of our easiness and childish pity
Link: 5.3.31
To one man's honour, this contagious sickness,
Link: 5.3.32
Farewell all physic: and what follows then?
Link: 5.3.33
Commotions, uproars, with a general taint
Link: 5.3.34
Of the whole state: as, of late days, our neighbours,
Link: 5.3.35
The upper Germany, can dearly witness,
Link: 5.3.36
Yet freshly pitied in our memories.
Link: 5.3.37

CRANMER
My good lords, hitherto, in all the progress
Link: 5.3.38
Both of my life and office, I have labour'd,
Link: 5.3.39
And with no little study, that my teaching
Link: 5.3.40
And the strong course of my authority
Link: 5.3.41
Might go one way, and safely; and the end
Link: 5.3.42
Was ever, to do well: nor is there living,
Link: 5.3.43
I speak it with a single heart, my lords,
Link: 5.3.44
A man that more detests, more stirs against,
Link: 5.3.45
Both in his private conscience and his place,
Link: 5.3.46
Defacers of a public peace, than I do.
Link: 5.3.47
Pray heaven, the king may never find a heart
Link: 5.3.48
With less allegiance in it! Men that make
Link: 5.3.49
Envy and crooked malice nourishment
Link: 5.3.50
Dare bite the best. I do beseech your lordships,
Link: 5.3.51
That, in this case of justice, my accusers,
Link: 5.3.52
Be what they will, may stand forth face to face,
Link: 5.3.53
And freely urge against me.
Link: 5.3.54

SUFFOLK
Nay, my lord,
Link: 5.3.55
That cannot be: you are a counsellor,
Link: 5.3.56
And, by that virtue, no man dare accuse you.
Link: 5.3.57

GARDINER
My lord, because we have business of more moment,
Link: 5.3.58
We will be short with you. 'Tis his highness' pleasure,
Link: 5.3.59
And our consent, for better trial of you,
Link: 5.3.60
From hence you be committed to the Tower;
Link: 5.3.61
Where, being but a private man again,
Link: 5.3.62
You shall know many dare accuse you boldly,
Link: 5.3.63
More than, I fear, you are provided for.
Link: 5.3.64

CRANMER
Ah, my good Lord of Winchester, I thank you;
Link: 5.3.65
You are always my good friend; if your will pass,
Link: 5.3.66
I shall both find your lordship judge and juror,
Link: 5.3.67
You are so merciful: I see your end;
Link: 5.3.68
'Tis my undoing: love and meekness, lord,
Link: 5.3.69
Become a churchman better than ambition:
Link: 5.3.70
Win straying souls with modesty again,
Link: 5.3.71
Cast none away. That I shall clear myself,
Link: 5.3.72
Lay all the weight ye can upon my patience,
Link: 5.3.73
I make as little doubt, as you do conscience
Link: 5.3.74
In doing daily wrongs. I could say more,
Link: 5.3.75
But reverence to your calling makes me modest.
Link: 5.3.76

GARDINER
My lord, my lord, you are a sectary,
Link: 5.3.77
That's the plain truth: your painted gloss discovers,
Link: 5.3.78
To men that understand you, words and weakness.
Link: 5.3.79

CROMWELL
My Lord of Winchester, you are a little,
Link: 5.3.80
By your good favour, too sharp; men so noble,
Link: 5.3.81
However faulty, yet should find respect
Link: 5.3.82
For what they have been: 'tis a cruelty
Link: 5.3.83
To load a falling man.
Link: 5.3.84

GARDINER
Good master secretary,
Link: 5.3.85
I cry your honour mercy; you may, worst
Link: 5.3.86
Of all this table, say so.
Link: 5.3.87

CROMWELL
Why, my lord?
Link: 5.3.88

GARDINER
Do not I know you for a favourer
Link: 5.3.89
Of this new sect? ye are not sound.
Link: 5.3.90

CROMWELL
Not sound?
Link: 5.3.91

GARDINER
Not sound, I say.
Link: 5.3.92

CROMWELL
Would you were half so honest!
Link: 5.3.93
Men's prayers then would seek you, not their fears.
Link: 5.3.94

GARDINER
I shall remember this bold language.
Link: 5.3.95

CROMWELL
Remember your bold life too.
Link: 5.3.97

Chancellor
This is too much;
Link: 5.3.98
Forbear, for shame, my lords.
Link: 5.3.99

GARDINER
I have done.
Link: 5.3.100

CROMWELL

Chancellor
Then thus for you, my lord: it stands agreed,
Link: 5.3.102
I take it, by all voices, that forthwith
Link: 5.3.103
You be convey'd to the Tower a prisoner;
Link: 5.3.104
There to remain till the king's further pleasure
Link: 5.3.105
Be known unto us: are you all agreed, lords?
Link: 5.3.106

All

CRANMER
Is there no other way of mercy,
Link: 5.3.108
But I must needs to the Tower, my lords?
Link: 5.3.109

GARDINER
What other
Link: 5.3.110
Would you expect? you are strangely troublesome.
Link: 5.3.111
Let some o' the guard be ready there.
Link: 5.3.112

Enter Guard

CRANMER
Must I go like a traitor thither?
Link: 5.3.114

GARDINER
Receive him,
Link: 5.3.115
And see him safe i' the Tower.
Link: 5.3.116

CRANMER
Stay, good my lords,
Link: 5.3.117
I have a little yet to say. Look there, my lords;
Link: 5.3.118
By virtue of that ring, I take my cause
Link: 5.3.119
Out of the gripes of cruel men, and give it
Link: 5.3.120
To a most noble judge, the king my master.
Link: 5.3.121

Chamberlain
This is the king's ring.
Link: 5.3.122

SURREY
'Tis no counterfeit.
Link: 5.3.123

SUFFOLK
'Tis the right ring, by heaven: I told ye all,
Link: 5.3.124
When ye first put this dangerous stone a-rolling,
Link: 5.3.125
'Twould fall upon ourselves.
Link: 5.3.126

NORFOLK
Do you think, my lords,
Link: 5.3.127
The king will suffer but the little finger
Link: 5.3.128
Of this man to be vex'd?
Link: 5.3.129

Chancellor
'Tis now too certain:
Link: 5.3.130
How much more is his life in value with him?
Link: 5.3.131
Would I were fairly out on't!
Link: 5.3.132

CROMWELL
My mind gave me,
Link: 5.3.133
In seeking tales and informations
Link: 5.3.134
Against this man, whose honesty the devil
Link: 5.3.135
And his disciples only envy at,
Link: 5.3.136
Ye blew the fire that burns ye: now have at ye!
Link: 5.3.137

Enter KING, frowning on them; takes his seat

GARDINER
Dread sovereign, how much are we bound to heaven
Link: 5.3.138
In daily thanks, that gave us such a prince;
Link: 5.3.139
Not only good and wise, but most religious:
Link: 5.3.140
One that, in all obedience, makes the church
Link: 5.3.141
The chief aim of his honour; and, to strengthen
Link: 5.3.142
That holy duty, out of dear respect,
Link: 5.3.143
His royal self in judgment comes to hear
Link: 5.3.144
The cause betwixt her and this great offender.
Link: 5.3.145

KING HENRY VIII
You were ever good at sudden commendations,
Link: 5.3.146
Bishop of Winchester. But know, I come not
Link: 5.3.147
To hear such flattery now, and in my presence;
Link: 5.3.148
They are too thin and bare to hide offences.
Link: 5.3.149
To me you cannot reach, you play the spaniel,
Link: 5.3.150
And think with wagging of your tongue to win me;
Link: 5.3.151
But, whatsoe'er thou takest me for, I'm sure
Link: 5.3.152
Thou hast a cruel nature and a bloody.
Link: 5.3.153
Good man, sit down. Now let me see the proudest
Link: 5.3.154
He, that dares most, but wag his finger at thee:
Link: 5.3.155
By all that's holy, he had better starve
Link: 5.3.156
Than but once think this place becomes thee not.
Link: 5.3.157

SURREY
May it please your grace,--
Link: 5.3.158

KING HENRY VIII
No, sir, it does not please me.
Link: 5.3.159
I had thought I had had men of some understanding
Link: 5.3.160
And wisdom of my council; but I find none.
Link: 5.3.161
Was it discretion, lords, to let this man,
Link: 5.3.162
This good man,--few of you deserve that title,--
Link: 5.3.163
This honest man, wait like a lousy footboy
Link: 5.3.164
At chamber--door? and one as great as you are?
Link: 5.3.165
Why, what a shame was this! Did my commission
Link: 5.3.166
Bid ye so far forget yourselves? I gave ye
Link: 5.3.167
Power as he was a counsellor to try him,
Link: 5.3.168
Not as a groom: there's some of ye, I see,
Link: 5.3.169
More out of malice than integrity,
Link: 5.3.170
Would try him to the utmost, had ye mean;
Link: 5.3.171
Which ye shall never have while I live.
Link: 5.3.172

Chancellor
Thus far,
Link: 5.3.173
My most dread sovereign, may it like your grace
Link: 5.3.174
To let my tongue excuse all. What was purposed
Link: 5.3.175
Concerning his imprisonment, was rather,
Link: 5.3.176
If there be faith in men, meant for his trial,
Link: 5.3.177
And fair purgation to the world, than malice,
Link: 5.3.178
I'm sure, in me.
Link: 5.3.179

KING HENRY VIII
Well, well, my lords, respect him;
Link: 5.3.180
Take him, and use him well, he's worthy of it.
Link: 5.3.181
I will say thus much for him, if a prince
Link: 5.3.182
May be beholding to a subject, I
Link: 5.3.183
Am, for his love and service, so to him.
Link: 5.3.184
Make me no more ado, but all embrace him:
Link: 5.3.185
Be friends, for shame, my lords! My Lord of
Link: 5.3.186
Canterbury,
Link: 5.3.187
I have a suit which you must not deny me;
Link: 5.3.188
That is, a fair young maid that yet wants baptism,
Link: 5.3.189
You must be godfather, and answer for her.
Link: 5.3.190

CRANMER
The greatest monarch now alive may glory
Link: 5.3.191
In such an honour: how may I deserve it
Link: 5.3.192
That am a poor and humble subject to you?
Link: 5.3.193

KING HENRY VIII
Come, come, my lord, you'ld spare your spoons: you
Link: 5.3.194
shall have two noble partners with you; the old
Link: 5.3.195
Duchess of Norfolk, and Lady Marquess Dorset: will
Link: 5.3.196
these please you?
Link: 5.3.197
Once more, my Lord of Winchester, I charge you,
Link: 5.3.198
Embrace and love this man.
Link: 5.3.199

GARDINER
With a true heart
Link: 5.3.200
And brother-love I do it.
Link: 5.3.201

CRANMER
And let heaven
Link: 5.3.202
Witness, how dear I hold this confirmation.
Link: 5.3.203

KING HENRY VIII
Good man, those joyful tears show thy true heart:
Link: 5.3.204
The common voice, I see, is verified
Link: 5.3.205
Of thee, which says thus, 'Do my Lord of Canterbury
Link: 5.3.206
A shrewd turn, and he is your friend for ever.'
Link: 5.3.207
Come, lords, we trifle time away; I long
Link: 5.3.208
To have this young one made a Christian.
Link: 5.3.209
As I have made ye one, lords, one remain;
Link: 5.3.210
So I grow stronger, you more honour gain.
Link: 5.3.211

Exeunt

SCENE IV. The palace yard.

Scene 4 of Act 5 begins with the entrance of Cranmer, the Archbishop of Canterbury, who has been sentenced to death for treason by King Henry VIII. Cranmer is brought before the King and his council, where he is asked to retract his beliefs and confess to his treasonous acts.

However, Cranmer refuses to do so and instead delivers a powerful speech about his faith and his loyalty to God. He proclaims that he has always been true to his conscience and that he is willing to die for his beliefs.

The King and his council are moved by Cranmer's words, and they begin to question the validity of his sentence. After some discussion, they decide to spare Cranmer's life and instead grant him a pardon.

Cranmer is overjoyed at this news and thanks the King and his council for their mercy. He then delivers a final speech, in which he expresses his gratitude to God for saving him and declares that he will continue to serve his faith with all his heart.

The scene ends with Cranmer being escorted away by the guards, while the King and his council reflect on the power of faith and the importance of mercy and forgiveness.

Noise and tumult within. Enter Porter and his Man

Porter
You'll leave your noise anon, ye rascals: do you
Link: 5.4.1
take the court for Paris-garden? ye rude slaves,
Link: 5.4.2
leave your gaping.
Link: 5.4.3
Good master porter, I belong to the larder.
Link: 5.4.4

Porter
Belong to the gallows, and be hanged, ye rogue! is
Link: 5.4.5
this a place to roar in? Fetch me a dozen crab-tree
Link: 5.4.6
staves, and strong ones: these are but switches to
Link: 5.4.7
'em. I'll scratch your heads: you must be seeing
Link: 5.4.8
christenings? do you look for ale and cakes here,
Link: 5.4.9
you rude rascals?
Link: 5.4.10

Man
Pray, sir, be patient: 'tis as much impossible--
Link: 5.4.11
Unless we sweep 'em from the door with cannons--
Link: 5.4.12
To scatter 'em, as 'tis to make 'em sleep
Link: 5.4.13
On May-day morning; which will never be:
Link: 5.4.14
We may as well push against Powle's, as stir em.
Link: 5.4.15

Porter
How got they in, and be hang'd?
Link: 5.4.16

Man
Alas, I know not; how gets the tide in?
Link: 5.4.17
As much as one sound cudgel of four foot--
Link: 5.4.18
You see the poor remainder--could distribute,
Link: 5.4.19
I made no spare, sir.
Link: 5.4.20

Porter
You did nothing, sir.
Link: 5.4.21

Man
I am not Samson, nor Sir Guy, nor Colbrand,
Link: 5.4.22
To mow 'em down before me: but if I spared any
Link: 5.4.23
That had a head to hit, either young or old,
Link: 5.4.24
He or she, cuckold or cuckold-maker,
Link: 5.4.25
Let me ne'er hope to see a chine again
Link: 5.4.26
And that I would not for a cow, God save her!
Link: 5.4.27
Do you hear, master porter?
Link: 5.4.28

Porter
I shall be with you presently, good master puppy.
Link: 5.4.29
Keep the door close, sirrah.
Link: 5.4.30

Man
What would you have me do?
Link: 5.4.31

Porter
What should you do, but knock 'em down by the
Link: 5.4.32
dozens? Is this Moorfields to muster in? or have
Link: 5.4.33
we some strange Indian with the great tool come to
Link: 5.4.34
court, the women so besiege us? Bless me, what a
Link: 5.4.35
fry of fornication is at door! On my Christian
Link: 5.4.36
conscience, this one christening will beget a
Link: 5.4.37
thousand; here will be father, godfather, and all together.
Link: 5.4.38

Man
The spoons will be the bigger, sir. There is a
Link: 5.4.39
fellow somewhat near the door, he should be a
Link: 5.4.40
brazier by his face, for, o' my conscience, twenty
Link: 5.4.41
of the dog-days now reign in's nose; all that stand
Link: 5.4.42
about him are under the line, they need no other
Link: 5.4.43
penance: that fire-drake did I hit three times on
Link: 5.4.44
the head, and three times was his nose discharged
Link: 5.4.45
against me; he stands there, like a mortar-piece, to
Link: 5.4.46
blow us. There was a haberdasher's wife of small
Link: 5.4.47
wit near him, that railed upon me till her pinked
Link: 5.4.48
porringer fell off her head, for kindling such a
Link: 5.4.49
combustion in the state. I missed the meteor once,
Link: 5.4.50
and hit that woman; who cried out 'Clubs!' when I
Link: 5.4.51
might see from far some forty truncheoners draw to
Link: 5.4.52
her succor, which were the hope o' the Strand, where
Link: 5.4.53
she was quartered. They fell on; I made good my
Link: 5.4.54
place: at length they came to the broom-staff to
Link: 5.4.55
me; I defied 'em still: when suddenly a file of
Link: 5.4.56
boys behind 'em, loose shot, delivered such a shower
Link: 5.4.57
of pebbles, that I was fain to draw mine honour in,
Link: 5.4.58
and let 'em win the work: the devil was amongst
Link: 5.4.59
'em, I think, surely.
Link: 5.4.60

Porter
These are the youths that thunder at a playhouse,
Link: 5.4.61
and fight for bitten apples; that no audience, but
Link: 5.4.62
the tribulation of Tower-hill, or the limbs of
Link: 5.4.63
Limehouse, their dear brothers, are able to endure.
Link: 5.4.64
I have some of 'em in Limbo Patrum, and there they
Link: 5.4.65
are like to dance these three days; besides the
Link: 5.4.66
running banquet of two beadles that is to come.
Link: 5.4.67

Enter Chamberlain

Chamberlain
Mercy o' me, what a multitude are here!
Link: 5.4.68
They grow still too; from all parts they are coming,
Link: 5.4.69
As if we kept a fair here! Where are these porters,
Link: 5.4.70
These lazy knaves? Ye have made a fine hand, fellows:
Link: 5.4.71
There's a trim rabble let in: are all these
Link: 5.4.72
Your faithful friends o' the suburbs? We shall have
Link: 5.4.73
Great store of room, no doubt, left for the ladies,
Link: 5.4.74
When they pass back from the christening.
Link: 5.4.75

Porter
An't please
Link: 5.4.76
your honour,
Link: 5.4.77
We are but men; and what so many may do,
Link: 5.4.78
Not being torn a-pieces, we have done:
Link: 5.4.79
An army cannot rule 'em.
Link: 5.4.80

Chamberlain
As I live,
Link: 5.4.81
If the king blame me for't, I'll lay ye all
Link: 5.4.82
By the heels, and suddenly; and on your heads
Link: 5.4.83
Clap round fines for neglect: ye are lazy knaves;
Link: 5.4.84
And here ye lie baiting of bombards, when
Link: 5.4.85
Ye should do service. Hark! the trumpets sound;
Link: 5.4.86
They're come already from the christening:
Link: 5.4.87
Go, break among the press, and find a way out
Link: 5.4.88
To let the troop pass fairly; or I'll find
Link: 5.4.89
A Marshalsea shall hold ye play these two months.
Link: 5.4.90

Porter
Make way there for the princess.
Link: 5.4.91

Man
You great fellow,
Link: 5.4.92
Stand close up, or I'll make your head ache.
Link: 5.4.93

Porter
You i' the camlet, get up o' the rail;
Link: 5.4.94
I'll peck you o'er the pales else.
Link: 5.4.95

Exeunt

SCENE V. The palace.

Scene 5 of Act 5 takes place in the palace of Whitehall. The Duke of Norfolk and Sir Thomas Lovell discuss the recent events surrounding the fall of Cardinal Wolsey and the rise of Thomas Cromwell in power. They express their concerns about the direction the country is taking under the influence of Cromwell and Henry VIII's new queen, Anne Boleyn.

The conversation is interrupted by the entrance of Cranmer, the newly appointed Archbishop of Canterbury, and his attendant. Cranmer brings news of a prophetic dream he had the night before, in which he saw a vision of angels crowning Henry VIII as the true defender of the faith. Norfolk and Lovell are skeptical of the dream and question Cranmer's motives.

Cranmer defends himself, stating that he is loyal to the king and wants only what is best for England. He reminds them of the importance of unity and advises them to put aside their personal grievances and work towards the common good.

The scene ends with Cranmer departing, leaving Norfolk and Lovell to ponder his words and the uncertain future of England under the rule of Henry VIII and his advisors.

Enter trumpets, sounding; then two Aldermen, Lord Mayor, Garter, CRANMER, NORFOLK with his marshal's staff, SUFFOLK, two Noblemen bearing great standing-bowls for the christening-gifts; then four Noblemen bearing a canopy, under which the Duchess of Norfolk, godmother, bearing the child richly habited in a mantle, c., train borne by a Lady; then follows the Marchioness Dorset, the other godmother, and Ladies. The troop pass once about the stage, and Garter speaks

Garter
Heaven, from thy endless goodness, send prosperous
Link: 5.5.1
life, long, and ever happy, to the high and mighty
Link: 5.5.2
princess of England, Elizabeth!
Link: 5.5.3

Flourish. Enter KING HENRY VIII and Guard

CRANMER
(Kneeling) And to your royal grace, and the good queen,
Link: 5.5.4
My noble partners, and myself, thus pray:
Link: 5.5.5
All comfort, joy, in this most gracious lady,
Link: 5.5.6
Heaven ever laid up to make parents happy,
Link: 5.5.7
May hourly fall upon ye!
Link: 5.5.8

KING HENRY VIII
Thank you, good lord archbishop:
Link: 5.5.9
What is her name?
Link: 5.5.10

CRANMER
Elizabeth.
Link: 5.5.11

KING HENRY VIII
Stand up, lord.
Link: 5.5.12
With this kiss take my blessing: God protect thee!
Link: 5.5.13
Into whose hand I give thy life.
Link: 5.5.14

CRANMER

KING HENRY VIII
My noble gossips, ye have been too prodigal:
Link: 5.5.16
I thank ye heartily; so shall this lady,
Link: 5.5.17
When she has so much English.
Link: 5.5.18

CRANMER
Let me speak, sir,
Link: 5.5.19
For heaven now bids me; and the words I utter
Link: 5.5.20
Let none think flattery, for they'll find 'em truth.
Link: 5.5.21
This royal infant--heaven still move about her!--
Link: 5.5.22
Though in her cradle, yet now promises
Link: 5.5.23
Upon this land a thousand thousand blessings,
Link: 5.5.24
Which time shall bring to ripeness: she shall be--
Link: 5.5.25
But few now living can behold that goodness--
Link: 5.5.26
A pattern to all princes living with her,
Link: 5.5.27
And all that shall succeed: Saba was never
Link: 5.5.28
More covetous of wisdom and fair virtue
Link: 5.5.29
Than this pure soul shall be: all princely graces,
Link: 5.5.30
That mould up such a mighty piece as this is,
Link: 5.5.31
With all the virtues that attend the good,
Link: 5.5.32
Shall still be doubled on her: truth shall nurse her,
Link: 5.5.33
Holy and heavenly thoughts still counsel her:
Link: 5.5.34
She shall be loved and fear'd: her own shall bless her;
Link: 5.5.35
Her foes shake like a field of beaten corn,
Link: 5.5.36
And hang their heads with sorrow: good grows with her:
Link: 5.5.37
In her days every man shall eat in safety,
Link: 5.5.38
Under his own vine, what he plants; and sing
Link: 5.5.39
The merry songs of peace to all his neighbours:
Link: 5.5.40
God shall be truly known; and those about her
Link: 5.5.41
From her shall read the perfect ways of honour,
Link: 5.5.42
And by those claim their greatness, not by blood.
Link: 5.5.43
Nor shall this peace sleep with her: but as when
Link: 5.5.44
The bird of wonder dies, the maiden phoenix,
Link: 5.5.45
Her ashes new create another heir,
Link: 5.5.46
As great in admiration as herself;
Link: 5.5.47
So shall she leave her blessedness to one,
Link: 5.5.48
When heaven shall call her from this cloud of darkness,
Link: 5.5.49
Who from the sacred ashes of her honour
Link: 5.5.50
Shall star-like rise, as great in fame as she was,
Link: 5.5.51
And so stand fix'd: peace, plenty, love, truth, terror,
Link: 5.5.52
That were the servants to this chosen infant,
Link: 5.5.53
Shall then be his, and like a vine grow to him:
Link: 5.5.54
Wherever the bright sun of heaven shall shine,
Link: 5.5.55
His honour and the greatness of his name
Link: 5.5.56
Shall be, and make new nations: he shall flourish,
Link: 5.5.57
And, like a mountain cedar, reach his branches
Link: 5.5.58
To all the plains about him: our children's children
Link: 5.5.59
Shall see this, and bless heaven.
Link: 5.5.60

KING HENRY VIII
Thou speakest wonders.
Link: 5.5.61

CRANMER
She shall be, to the happiness of England,
Link: 5.5.62
An aged princess; many days shall see her,
Link: 5.5.63
And yet no day without a deed to crown it.
Link: 5.5.64
Would I had known no more! but she must die,
Link: 5.5.65
She must, the saints must have her; yet a virgin,
Link: 5.5.66
A most unspotted lily shall she pass
Link: 5.5.67
To the ground, and all the world shall mourn her.
Link: 5.5.68

KING HENRY VIII
O lord archbishop,
Link: 5.5.69
Thou hast made me now a man! never, before
Link: 5.5.70
This happy child, did I get any thing:
Link: 5.5.71
This oracle of comfort has so pleased me,
Link: 5.5.72
That when I am in heaven I shall desire
Link: 5.5.73
To see what this child does, and praise my Maker.
Link: 5.5.74
I thank ye all. To you, my good lord mayor,
Link: 5.5.75
And your good brethren, I am much beholding;
Link: 5.5.76
I have received much honour by your presence,
Link: 5.5.77
And ye shall find me thankful. Lead the way, lords:
Link: 5.5.78
Ye must all see the queen, and she must thank ye,
Link: 5.5.79
She will be sick else. This day, no man think
Link: 5.5.80
Has business at his house; for all shall stay:
Link: 5.5.81
This little one shall make it holiday.
Link: 5.5.82

Exeunt