King. Not that I know.
Pol. Take this from this, if this be otherwise:
[Pointing to his head and shoulder.]
If circumstances lead me, I will find
Where truth is hid, though it were hid indeed
Within the centre.
King. How may we try it further?
Pol. You know sometimes he walks four hours together 160
Here in the lobby.
Queen. So he does indeed.
Pol. At such a time I'll loose my daughter to him;
Be you and I behind an arras then;
Mark the encounter; if he love her not, 164
And be not from his reason fallen thereon,
Let me be no assistant for a state,
But keep a farm, and carters.
King. We will try it.
Enter Hamlet reading on a book.
Queen. But look, where sadly the poor wretch comes reading. 168
Pol. Away! I do beseech you, both away.
I'll board him presently.
Exeunt King, Queen, [and Attendants.]
O! give me leave.
How does my good Lord Hamlet?
Ham. Well, God a-mercy. 172
Pol. Do you know me, my lord?
Ham. Excellent well; you are a fishmonger.
Pol. Not I, my lord.
Ham. Then I would you were so honest a
man. 177
159 centre: middle point of the earth
163 arras: hanging tapestry
164 encounter: manner of behavior
170 board: accost
presently: immediately
174 fishmonger; cf. n.
