To amplify too much, would make much more, And top extremity. Whilst I was big in clamour came there a man, Who, having seen me in my worst estate, Shunn'd my abhorr'd society; but then, finding Who 'twas that so endured, with his strong arms He fasten'd on my neck, and bellow'd out As he'd burst heaven; threw him on my father; Told the most piteous tale of Lear and him That ever ear received; which in recounting His grief grew puissant, and the strings of life Began to crack: twice then the trumpets sounded, And there I left him tranced. : Alb. But who was this? Edg. Kent, sir, the banish'd Kent; who in disguise Follow'd his enemy king, and did him service Improper for a slave. Enter a Gentleman, with a Gent. Help, help! O, help! Edg. Alb. Speak, man. that Edg. What means bloody knife? Gent. 'Tis hot, it smokes ; It came even from the heart of-O! she's dead. Alb. Who dead? speak, man. Gent. Your lady, sir, your lady: and her sister By her is poison'd; she confesses it. Edm. I was contracted to them both all three Now marry in an instant. Edg. Here comes Kent. Alb. Produce the bodies, be they alive or dead: This judgement of the heavens, that makes us tremble, Touches us not with pity. [Exit Gentleman. Enter KENT. O! is this he? The time will not allow the compliment Which very manners urges. Kent. I am come To bid my king and master aye good night; Is he not here? Alb. Great thing of us forgot! 1 Speak, Edmund, where's the king! and where's Cordelia ? Seest thou this object, Kent? [The bodies of GONERIL and REGAN are brought in. Kent. Alack! why thus? Edm. Yet Edmund was beloved : The one the other poison'd for my sake, And after slew herself. Alb. Even so. Cover their faces. Edm. I pant for life: some Despite of mine own nature. |