Page 859 - Shakespeare - Vol. 1

Myself have often heard him say and swear
That this his love was an eternal plant
Whereof the root was fixed in virtue’s ground, [125]
The leaves and fruit maintained with beauty’s sun,
Exempt from envy, but not from disdain,
Unless the Lady Bona quit his pain.

KING LEWIS

Now, sister, let us hear your firm resolve.

BONA

Your grant or your denial shall be mine. [130]
Speaks to Warwick.

Yet I confess that often ere this day
When I have heard your king’s desert recounted,
Mine ear hath tempted judgement to desire.

KING LEWIS

Then, Warwick, thus: our sister shall be Edward’s.
And now forthwith shall articles be drawn [135]
Touching the jointure that your king must make,
Which with her dowry shall be counterpoised. -
Draw near, Queen Margaret, and be a witness
That Bona shall be wife to the English king.

PRINCE EDWARD

To Edward, but not to the English king. [140]

MARGARET

Deceitful Warwick, it was thy device
By this alliance to make void my suit:
Before thy coming Lewis was Henry’s friend.

KING LEWIS

And still is friend to him and Margaret.
But if your title to the crown be weak - [145]
As may appear by Edward’s good success -
Then ’tis but reason that I be released
From giving aid which late I promisèd.
Yet shall you have all kindness at my hand