Page:Henry VI Part 2 (1923) Yale.djvu/24

12

Above the reach or compass of thy thought?

And wilt thou still be hammering treachery,

To tumble down thy husband and thyself

From top of honour to disgrace's feet?

Away from me, and let me hear no more.

Elea. What, what, my lord! are you so choleric

With Eleanor, for telling but her dream?

Next time I'll keep my dreams unto myself,

And not be check'd.

Hum. Nay, be not angry; I am pleas'd again.

Mess. My Lord Protector, 'tis his highness' pleasure

You do prepare to ride unto Saint Albans,

Whereas the king and queen do mean to hawk.

Hum. I go. Come, Nell, thou wilt ride with us?

Exit Humphrey [with Messenger].

Elea. Yes, my good lord, I'll follow presently.

Follow I must; I cannot go before,

While Gloucester bears this base and humble mind.

Were I a man, a duke, and next of blood,

I would remove these tedious stumbling-blocks

And smooth my way upon their headless necks;

And, being a woman, I will not be slack

To play my part in Fortune's pageant.

Where are youthere? Sir John! nay, fear not, man,

We are alone; here's none but thee and I.

Hume. Jesus preserve your royal majesty!

Elea. What sayst thou? majesty! I am but Grace.

 47 hammering: meditating

49 From highest honor to lowest disgrace

54 check'd: rebuked

61 go before: i.e. occupy the highest place

68 Sir John; cf. n.

71 but Grace; cf. n. 