His mind so venomously that burning shame Detains22 him from Cordelia.
GENTLEMAN Alack, poor gentleman!
KENT Of Albany’s and Cornwall’s powers23 you heard not?
GENTLEMAN ’Tis so, they are afoot.24
KENT Well, sir, I’ll bring you to our master Lear, And leave you to attend him. Some dear cause Will in concealment wrap me up awhile.25 When I am known aright, you shall not grieve Lending me this acquaintance.26 I pray you go Along with me.
Exeunt. 50
25. Some dear … awhile: There is an important reason why I must remain disguised for a while longer. (We never learn what this reason is.)
55 23. powers: armed forces 22. Detains: holds back
24. afoot: marching
26. When I … acquaintance: When I am revealed for who I really am, you will not regret befriending me.
It is the stars,
Te stars above us, govern our conditions; Else one self mate and make could not beget Such different issues.
(Kent, lines 33–35)
King Lear, directed by Adrian Noble, Royal Shakespeare Company, 1993