If you do chance to hear of that blind traitor, Preferment falls on him that cuts him off. (Regan, lines 37−38)
Act 4
Scene 5
King Lear, The Old Vic Theatre Company, 1946
The Earl of Gloucester’s castle
Regan and Oswald are talking; he tells her that Albany has at last been persuaded to set his army on the march. Oswald thinks Goneril is a better soldier than Albany. Regan believes it was a mistake to let Gloucester live after they had gouged out his eyes, and says that he is likely to stir up sentiment against her by provoking sympathy in those he meets. She mentions that Edmund has gone to find and kill Gloucester. Oswald says he must go after Edmund to give him the letter from Goneril. Regan asks him to stay as the roads are dangerous. Oswald refuses, saying he has to do his duty by Goneril. Regan is deeply curious about the letter and begs Oswald to show it to her, but he refuses. Regan asks Oswald if he has noticed Goneril flirting with Edmund, but Oswald remains loyal to Goneril and doesn’t respond. Regan has to content herself with asking him to bring Edmund the information that Cornwall is dead and she is free to marry him. She advises Oswald to tell Goneril to stop pursuing Edmund as she, Regan, has won his love. Finally, she asks Oswald to kill Gloucester if he meets him, promising a large reward if he succeeds.
