Than from true evidence, of good esteem,
He be approv'd in practice culpable.
Queen. God forbid any malice should prevail
That faultless may condemn a nobleman! 24
Pray God, he may acquit him of suspicion!
King. I thank thee, Meg; these words content me much.
Enter Suffolk.
How now! why look'st thou pale? why tremblest thou?
Where is our uncle? what's the matter, Suffolk? 28
Suf. Dead in his bed, my lord; Gloucester is dead.
Queen. Marry, God forfend!
Car. God's secret judgment: I did dream to-night
The duke was dumb, and could not speak a word. 32
Queen. How fares my lord? Help, lords! the king is dead.
Som. Rear up his body; wring him by the nose.
Queen. Run, go, help, help! O Henry, ope thine eyes!
Suf. He doth revive again. Madam, be patient. 36
King. O heavenly God!
Queen.How fares my gracious lord?
Suf. Comfort, my sovereign! gracious Henry, comfort!
King. What! doth my Lord of Suffolk comfort me?
Came he right now to sing a raven's note, 40
Whose dismal tune bereft my vital powers,
And thinks he that the chirping of a wren,
By crying comfort from a hollow breast,
Can chase away the first-conceived sound? 44
Hide not thy poison with such sugar'd words:
21 of good esteem: worthy of credence
22 approv'd: proved
26 Meg; cf. n.
30 forfend: forbid
31 to-night: last night
34 Rear up: support
40 right now: this very moment
