Page:Richard III (1927) Yale.djvu/140

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126
The Life and Death of

South from the mighty power of the king.

Richm. If without peril it be possible,
Sweet Blunt, make some good means to speak with him, 40
And give him from me this most needful note.

Blunt. Upon my life, my lord, I'll undertake it;
And so, God give you quiet rest to-night!

Richm. Good-night, good Captain Blunt. Come, gentlemen, 44
Let us consult upon to-morrow's business.
In to my tent! the dew is raw and cold.

They withdraw into the tent.

Enter Richard, Ratcliff, Norfolk, and Catesby.

K. Rich. What is 't o'clock?

Cate. It's supper-time, my lord;
It's nine o'clock.

K. Rich. I will not sup to-night. 48
Give me some ink and paper.
What, is my beaver easier than it was,
And all my armour laid into my tent?

Cate. It is, my liege; and all things are in readiness. 52

K. Rich. Good Norfolk, hie thee to thy charge;
Use careful watch; choose trusty sentinels.

Nor. I go, my lord.

K. Rich. Stir with the lark to-morrow, gentle Norfolk. 56

Nor. I warrant you, my lord. Exit.

K. Rich. Ratcliff!

Rat. My lord?

K. Rich. Send out a pursuivant at arms
To Stanley's regiment; bid him bring his power 60

40 make . . . means: contrive some opportunity
41 needful: important
50 beaver: face-guard of the helmet