Page 2156 - Shakespeare - Vol. 3

MALCOLM

I thank you, doctor.
Exit Doctor.

MACDUFF
What’s the disease he means?

MALCOLM
’Tis called the Evil −

A most miraculous work in this good king,
Which often since my here-remain in England
I have seen him do. How he solicits heaven
Himself best knows: but strangely visited people, [150]
All swollen and ulcerous, pitiful to the eye,

The mere despair of surgery, he cures,
Hanging a golden stamp about their necks
Put on with holy prayers; and ’tis spoken,

To the succeeding royalty he leaves
The healing benediction. With this strange virtue
He hath a heavenly gift of prophecy,
And sundry blessings hang about his throne
That speak him full of grace.

Enter Ross.

MACDUFF
See who comes here.

MALCOLM
My countryman; but yet I know him not. [160]

MACDUFF
My ever gentle cousin, welcome hither.

MALCOLM
I know him now. Good God betimes remove
The means that makes us strangers!