Page 843 - Shakespeare - Vol. 1

SECOND KEEPER

No, never such an oath, nor will not now.

KING HENRY

Where did you dwell when I was king of England?

SECOND KEEPER

Here in this country where we now remain. [75]

KING HENRY

I was anointed king at nine months old;
My father and my grandfather were kings
And you were sworn true subjects unto me:
And tell me then, have you not broke your oaths?

FIRST KEEPER

No, for we were subjects but while you were king. [80]

KING HENRY

Why, am I dead? Do I not breath a man?
Ah, simple men, you know not what you sware:
Look: as I blow this feather from my face
And as the air blows it to me again,
Obeying with my wind when I do blow [85]
And yielding to another when it blows,
Commanded always by the greater gust:
Such is the lightness of you, common men.
But do not break your oaths, for of that sin
My mild entreaty shall not make you guilty. [90]
Go where you will, the king shall be commanded;
And be you kings: command, and I’ll obey.

FIRST KEEPER

We are true subjects to the king: King Edward.

KING HENRY

So would you be again to Henry
If he were seated as King Edward is. [95]

FIRST KEEPER