Page 542 - Shakespeare - Vol. 1

Before his chaps be stained with crimson blood -
As Humphrey proved by reasons to my liege. [260]
And do not stand on quillets how to slay him:
Be it by gins, by snares, by subtlety,
Sleeping, or waking, ’tis no matter how,
So he be dead: for that is good deceit
Which mates him first that first intends deceit. [265]

MARGARET

Thrice noble Suffolk, ’tis resolutely spoke.

SUFFOLK

Not resolute, except so much were done:
For things are often spoke and seldom meant:
But that my heart accordeth with my tongue -
Seeing the deed is meritorious - [270]
And, to preserve my sovereign from his foe,
Say but the word, and I will be his priest.

WINCHEST ER

But I would have him dead, my Lord of Suffolk,
Ere you can take due orders for a priest:
Say you consent and censure well the deed [275]
And I’ll provide his executioner -
I tender so the safety of my liege.

SUFFOLK

Here is my hand, the deed is worthy doing.

MARGARET

And so say I.

Y ORK

And I; and now we three have spoke it, [280]
It skills not greatly who impugns our doom.

Enter a Post.

POST

Great lords, from Ireland am I come amain