Scene 1


Either in snuffs and packings20 of the dukes, Or the hard rein which both of them have borne Against the old kind King,21 or something deeper, Whereof perchance these are but furnishings22 – But true it is, from France there comes a power Into this scattered kingdom, who already, Wise in our negligence, have secret feet In some of our best ports, and are at point To show their open banner.23 Now to you: If on my credit you dare build so far To make your speed to Dover,24 you shall find Some that will thank you, making just report Of how unnatural and bemadding25 sorrow The King hath cause to plain.26 I am a gentleman of blood and breeding, And from some knowledge and assurance offer This office27 to you.


GENTLEMAN I will talk further with you.


KENT No, do not.


For confirmation that I am much more Than my out-wall,28 open this purse, and take What it contains. If you shall see Cordelia − As fear not but you shall − show her this ring, And she will tell you who your fellow29 is That yet you do not know. − Fie on30 this storm! I will go seek the King.


GENTLEMAN Give me your hand. Have you no more to say?


KENT Few words, but, to effect, more than all yet:31 That, when we have found the King − in which your pain That way, I’ll this − he that first lights on him Holla the other.32


Exeunt severally.


show her this ring (Kent, line 47)


31. Few words … yet: Only a few words, but they are more important than any that I have already spoken


55


32. That, when … other: That when we have found the king – in which effort (the task of finding Lear) I ask you to go that way and I will go this – the first that comes upon him will call the other.


45 28. out-wall: outward appearance 20. Snuffs and packings: quarrels and schemes 30


21. Or the hard … King: Or the harsh treatment both of them have endured under Lear’s reign. The pun is deliberate. The Gentleman uses a metaphor that compares Lear to a horse on too tight a rein and not allowing it its head.


22. furnishings: excuses


35


23. Wise in … banner: Using their knowledge of our neglect of external threats, they have secretly gained a foothold in some of our best ports and are now ready to show themselves.


24. If on … Dover: If you can take me at my word, do what I ask and hurry to Dover.


25. bemadding: maddening 26. plain: complain


40 27. office: duty


29. your fellow: your companion 30. Fie on: curse


50


Leaving Certificate English Excellence in Texts


97


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