Page 886 - Shakespeare - Vol. 1

Resolve yourself and let us claim the crown.

KING EDWARD

When we grow stronger, then we’ll make our claim: [60]
Till then ’tis wisdom to conceal our meaning.

HAST INGS

Away with scrupulous wit! Now arms must rule.

GLOUCEST ER

And fearless minds climb soonest unto crowns. -
Brother, we will proclaim you out of hand:
The bruit thereof will bring you many friends. [65]

KING EDWARD

Then be it as you will; for ’tis my right
And Henry but usurps the diadem.

MONT GOMERY

Ay, now my sovereign speaketh like himself;
And now will I be Edward’s champion.

HAST INGS

Sound, trumpet; Edward shall be here proclaimed. [70]
Come, fellow soldier, make thou proclamation.

[Gives him a paper.] Flourish. Sound.

SOLDIER

[reads]
Edward the Fourth, by the Grace of God King
of England and France, and Lord of Ireland, etc.

MONT GOMERY

And whosoe’er gainsays King Edward’s right,
By this I challenge him to single fight. [75]

Throws down his gauntlet.
Long live Edward the Fourth!

ALL

Long live Edward the Fourth!