Page 1729 - Shakespeare - Vol. 4

To swear against you? Such things have been done.
You are potently opposed, and with a malice
Of as great size. Ween you of better luck, [135]
I mean in perjured witness, than your Master,

Whose minister you are, whiles here He lived
Upon this naughty earth? Go to, go to;
You take a precipice for no leap of danger,
And woo your own destruction.

CRANMER

God and your majesty [140]
Protect mine innocence, or I fall into
The trap is laid for me!

KING
Be of good cheer;
They shall no more prevail than we give way to.

Keep comfort to you, and this morning see
You do appear before them. If they shall chance, [145]
In charging you with matters, to commit you,
The best persuasions to the contrary

Fail not to use, and with what vehemency
Th’occasion shall instruct you. If entreaties
Will render you no remedy, this ring [150]
Deliver them, and your appeal to us

There make before them. Look, the good man weeps:
He’s honest, on mine honour. God’s blest mother,
I swear he is true-hearted, and a soul
None better in my kingdom. Get you gone, [155]

And do as I have bid you.
Exit Cranmer
He has strangled
His language in his tears.

Enter Old Lady

GENTLEMAN

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