Page 1195 - Shakespeare - Vol. 1

RICHARD

What, tongueless blocks were they? Would they not speak!
Will not the Mayor then and his brethren come?

BUCKINGHAM

The Mayor is here at hand. Intend some fear;
Be not you spoke with but by mighty suit. [45]
And look you get a prayer-book in your hand,
And stand between two churchmen, good my lord:
For on that ground I’ll build a holy descant.
And be not easily won to our requests:
Play the maid’s part: still answer nay, and take it. [50]

RICHARD

I go, and if you plead as well for them
As I can say nay to thee for myself,
No doubt we bring it to a happy issue.

BUCKINGHAM Exit Richard.

Go, go up to the leads, the Lord Mayor knocks.

Enter the [Lord] Mayor and Citizens.

Welcome, my lord: I dance attendance here. [55]
I think the Duke will not be spoke withal.

Enter Catesby [above].

Now, Catesby, what says your lord to my request?

CAT ESBY

He doth entreat your Grace, my noble lord,
To visit him tomorrow, or next day:
He is within, with two right reverend fathers, [60]
Divinely bent to meditation;
And in no worldly suits would he be mov’d
To draw him from his holy exercise.

BUCKINGHAM