Page 1143 - Shakespeare - Vol. 1

You scarcely have the hearts to tell me so,
And therefore cannot have the hearts to do it. [165]
Wherein, my friends, have I offended you?

I MURDERER

Offended us you have not, but the King.

CLARENCE

I shall be reconcil’d to him again.

II MURDERER

Never, my lord; therefore prepare to die.

CLARENCE

Are you drawn forth among a world of men [170]
To slay the innocent? What is my offence?
Where is the evidence that doth accuse me?
What lawful quest have giv’n their verdict up
Unto the frowning judge? Or who pronounc’d
The bitter sentence of poor Clarence’ death? [175]
Before I be convict by course of law,
To threaten me with death is most unlawful.
I charge you, as you hope to have redemption,
By Christ’s dear blood, shed for our grievous sins,
That you depart and lay no hands on me: [180]
The deed you undertake is damnable.

I MURDERER

What we will do, we do upon command.

II MURDERER

And he that hath commanded is our King.

CLARENCE

Erroneous vassals! The great King of kings
Hath in the table of His law commanded [185]
That thou shalt do no murder. Will you then
Spurn at His edict, and fulfil a man’s?
Take heed! For He holds vengeance in His hand
To hurl upon their heads that break His law.