LORDS AND LOVERS



'Gainst country, throne or God, and by that God,
I vow to serve the king.
  Pem.              For the last time
I'll trust and pardon you. If you make black
Your soul with violation of this oath,
I, safe beyond the stars, shall know it not,
Nor die again to think on 't. Men, weep not
That ye lack sons, hut weep when your wives bear them!
Alb. I'll vouch for him, your grace.
  Pem.                           Thanks, Albemarle.
  Rich. Will you, my kindest father, say a word
To bring me to the graces of the king
  Pem. Ay, son.
  Rich.       Now, sir
  Pem.                Nay, I'm not dying yet,
And wish to keep my last words for his ears.
There's holy magic in the passing tongue
That stamps its truth unrasurable. So
Would I grave Henry's heart.
  Rich.                  But, sir-
  Pem.                          I'll wait
My hour. Who comes with him
  Alb.                       The legate, Gualo,
To-day arrived from Rome.
  Pem.                  And I not told
Already I am dead. These ears, that kings
Engaged, are now contracted to the worm
Permits no forfeiture. Well, well, his message
  Alb. The cardinal assures us that the pope
Will cast his power with Henry. Though he loves
This praying Louis, well he knows our right.
  Pem. The pope our friend I thank thee, Heaven!
England, take up thy heart! Thou yet mayst hope!
            [Enter bishop of Winchester]
  Win.            God save great Pembroke!



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