▲

 

⬊
Nombre de personnages parlants sur scène : ordre temporel et ordre croissant  
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10

 

Shakespeare, William, 1564-1616.. The Winters Tale from Mr. William Shakespeares comedies, histories, & tragedies. Published according to the true originall copies.. Table des rôles
Rôle Scènes Répl. Répl. moy. Présence Texte Texte % prés. Texte × pers. Interlocution
[TOUS] 16 sc. 746 répl. 3,0 l. 2 204 l. 2 204 l. 15 % 14 988 l. (100 %) 6,8 pers.
Second Lady 1 sc. 3 répl. 0,6 l. 147 l. (7 %) 2 l. (1 %) 2 % 1 031 l. (7 %) 7,0 pers.
Antigonus 3 sc. 19 répl. 3,8 l. 402 l. (19 %) 71 l. (4 %) 18 % 2 358 l. (16 %) 5,9 pers.
Archidamus 1 sc. 7 répl. 2,3 l. 34 l. (2 %) 16 l. (1 %) 49 % 68 l. (1 %) 2,0 pers.
Autolycus 3 sc. 66 répl. 3,1 l. 830 l. (38 %) 203 l. (10 %) 25 % 7 080 l. (48 %) 8,5 pers.
Camillo 5 sc. 72 répl. 2,7 l. 1 148 l. (53 %) 192 l. (9 %) 17 % 8 670 l. (58 %) 7,5 pers.
Cleomenes 3 sc. 8 répl. 1,7 l. 364 l. (17 %) 14 l. (1 %) 4 % 2 818 l. (19 %) 7,7 pers.
Clown 4 sc. 64 répl. 2,1 l. 931 l. (43 %) 135 l. (7 %) 15 % 7 483 l. (50 %) 8,0 pers.
Dion 2 sc. 4 répl. 4,3 l. 189 l. (9 %) 17 l. (1 %) 10 % 1 412 l. (10 %) 7,5 pers.
Dorcas 1 sc. 11 répl. 0,5 l. 610 l. (28 %) 6 l. (1 %) 1 % 6 098 l. (41 %) 10,0 pers.
Emilia 1 sc. 4 répl. 3,3 l. 46 l. (3 %) 13 l. (1 %) 29 % 137 l. (1 %) 3,0 pers.
Florizel 2 sc. 45 répl. 2,8 l. 782 l. (36 %) 124 l. (6 %) 16 % 7 478 l. (50 %) 9,6 pers.
Gaoler 1 sc. 6 répl. 1,0 l. 46 l. (3 %) 6 l. (1 %) 14 % 137 l. (1 %) 3,0 pers.
First Gentleman 1 sc. 6 répl. 3,4 l. 135 l. (7 %) 20 l. (1 %) 16 % 812 l. (6 %) 6,0 pers.
Second Gentleman 1 sc. 4 répl. 2,9 l. 135 l. (7 %) 12 l. (1 %) 9 % 812 l. (6 %) 6,0 pers.
Third Gentleman 1 sc. 6 répl. 9,3 l. 135 l. (7 %) 56 l. (3 %) 42 % 812 l. (6 %) 6,0 pers.
Hermione 4 sc. 35 répl. 3,9 l. 783 l. (36 %) 137 l. (7 %) 18 % 4 852 l. (33 %) 6,2 pers.
First Lady 1 sc. 4 répl. 1,1 l. 147 l. (7 %) 4 l. (1 %) 3 % 1 031 l. (7 %) 7,0 pers.
Leontes 6 sc. 126 répl. 3,5 l. 1 110 l. (51 %) 444 l. (21 %) 41 % 7 156 l. (48 %) 6,4 pers.
First Lord 4 sc. 18 répl. 2,0 l. 650 l. (30 %) 37 l. (2 %) 6 % 4 741 l. (32 %) 7,3 pers.
Lords 2 sc. 2 répl. 0,8 l. 330 l. (15 %) 2 l. (1 %) 1 % 2 330 l. (16 %) 7,1 pers.
Mamillius 2 sc. 13 répl. 0,9 l. 492 l. (23 %) 12 l. (1 %) 3 % 2 756 l. (19 %) 5,6 pers.
Mariner 1 sc. 3 répl. 2,2 l. 101 l. (5 %) 7 l. (1 %) 7 % 403 l. (3 %) 4,0 pers.
Mopsa 1 sc. 13 répl. 0,9 l. 610 l. (28 %) 11 l. (1 %) 2 % 6 098 l. (41 %) 10,0 pers.
Officer 1 sc. 5 répl. 3,7 l. 176 l. (8 %) 18 l. (1 %) 11 % 1 406 l. (10 %) 8,0 pers.
Paulina 5 sc. 59 répl. 3,6 l. 663 l. (31 %) 212 l. (10 %) 33 % 4 536 l. (31 %) 6,8 pers.
Perdita 3 sc. 25 répl. 3,5 l. 897 l. (41 %) 87 l. (4 %) 10 % 8 167 l. (55 %) 9,1 pers.
Polixenes 4 sc. 57 répl. 3,2 l. 1 114 l. (51 %) 180 l. (9 %) 17 % 8 602 l. (58 %) 7,7 pers.
Servant 4 sc. 18 répl. 2,7 l. 1 112 l. (51 %) 48 l. (3 %) 5 % 9 808 l. (66 %) 8,8 pers.
Old Shepherd 3 sc. 42 répl. 2,2 l. 846 l. (39 %) 93 l. (5 %) 11 % 7 312 l. (49 %) 8,6 pers.
Time 1 sc. 1 répl. 23,4 l. 23 l. (2 %) 23 l. (2 %) 100 % 23 l. (1 %) 1,0 pers.
Shakespeare, William, 1564-1616.. The Winters Tale from Mr. William Shakespeares comedies, histories, & tragedies. Published according to the true originall copies.. Statistiques par relation
Relation Scènes Texte Interlocution
Second Lady
Mamillius		 1 l. (13 %) 2 répl. 0,3 l.
5 l. (88 %) 2 répl. 2,3 l. 		1 sc. 5 l. (1 %) 7,0 pers.
Antigonus
Leontes		 31 l. (39 %) 10 répl. 3,0 l.
49 l. (62 %) 10 répl. 4,8 l. 		2 sc. 78 l. (4 %) 6,5 pers.
Antigonus
First Lord		 3 l. (36 %) 1 répl. 2,3 l.
5 l. (65 %) 3 répl. 1,4 l. 		1 sc. 6 l. (1 %) 7,0 pers.
Antigonus
Mariner		 4 l. (35 %) 3 répl. 1,2 l.
7 l. (66 %) 3 répl. 2,2 l. 		1 sc. 10 l. (1 %) 4,0 pers.
Antigonus
Paulina		 3 l. (28 %) 2 répl. 1,0 l.
6 l. (73 %) 2 répl. 2,6 l. 		1 sc. 7 l. (1 %) 6,0 pers.
Archidamus
Camillo		 17 l. (49 %) 7 répl. 2,3 l.
18 l. (52 %) 6 répl. 2,9 l. 		1 sc. 34 l. (2 %) 2,0 pers.
Autolycus
Camillo		 24 l. (62 %) 5 répl. 4,8 l.
15 l. (39 %) 7 répl. 2,1 l. 		1 sc. 39 l. (2 %) 10,0 pers.
Autolycus
Clown		 115 l. (63 %) 35 répl. 3,3 l.
68 l. (38 %) 35 répl. 1,9 l. 		3 sc. 183 l. (9 %) 8,5 pers.
Autolycus
Dorcas		 9 l. (80 %) 6 répl. 1,5 l.
3 l. (21 %) 5 répl. 0,5 l. 		1 sc. 11 l. (1 %) 10,0 pers.
Autolycus
Florizel		 2 l. (76 %) 2 répl. 0,5 l.
1 l. (25 %) 1 répl. 0,3 l. 		1 sc. 1 l. (1 %) 10,0 pers.
Autolycus
First Gentleman		 2 l. (19 %) 2 répl. 0,8 l.
8 l. (82 %) 2 répl. 3,5 l. 		1 sc. 9 l. (1 %) 6,0 pers.
Autolycus
Mopsa		 9 l. (79 %) 4 répl. 2,2 l.
3 l. (22 %) 3 répl. 0,8 l. 		1 sc. 11 l. (1 %) 10,0 pers.
Autolycus
Old Shepherd		 41 l. (77 %) 11 répl. 3,6 l.
13 l. (24 %) 11 répl. 1,1 l. 		2 sc. 52 l. (3 %) 9,3 pers.
Camillo
Florizel		 47 l. (52 %) 14 répl. 3,3 l.
44 l. (49 %) 18 répl. 2,4 l. 		1 sc. 90 l. (5 %) 10,0 pers.
Camillo
Leontes		 38 l. (37 %) 17 répl. 2,2 l.
67 l. (64 %) 18 répl. 3,7 l. 		1 sc. 104 l. (5 %) 5,0 pers.
Camillo
Perdita		 17 l. (50 %) 6 répl. 2,8 l.
18 l. (51 %) 5 répl. 3,4 l. 		1 sc. 34 l. (2 %) 10,0 pers.
Camillo
Polixenes		 56 l. (41 %) 19 répl. 2,9 l.
82 l. (60 %) 20 répl. 4,1 l. 		4 sc. 137 l. (7 %) 7,7 pers.
Cleomenes
Dion		 6 l. (37 %) 3 répl. 1,9 l.
11 l. (64 %) 3 répl. 3,4 l. 		1 sc. 16 l. (1 %) 2,0 pers.
Cleomenes
Leontes		 5 l. (63 %) 2 répl. 2,4 l.
3 l. (38 %) 1 répl. 2,9 l. 		2 sc. 8 l. (1 %) 8,0 pers.
Cleomenes
Paulina		 4 l. (62 %) 3 répl. 1,1 l.
2 l. (39 %) 2 répl. 1,0 l. 		1 sc. 5 l. (1 %) 8,0 pers.
Clown
Mopsa		 9 l. (64 %) 3 répl. 2,8 l.
5 l. (37 %) 5 répl. 1,0 l. 		1 sc. 13 l. (1 %) 10,0 pers.
Clown
Perdita		 3 l. (21 %) 2 répl. 1,1 l.
9 l. (80 %) 2 répl. 4,3 l. 		1 sc. 11 l. (1 %) 10,0 pers.
Clown
Polixenes		 2 l. (74 %) 1 répl. 1,1 l.
1 l. (27 %) 1 répl. 0,4 l. 		1 sc. 1 l. (1 %) 10,0 pers.
Clown
Servant		 5 l. (30 %) 2 répl. 2,2 l.
11 l. (71 %) 2 répl. 5,4 l. 		1 sc. 15 l. (1 %) 10,0 pers.
Clown
Old Shepherd		 52 l. (55 %) 20 répl. 2,6 l.
43 l. (46 %) 20 répl. 2,1 l. 		3 sc. 94 l. (5 %) 8,6 pers.
Dion
Paulina		 8 l. (91 %) 1 répl. 7,2 l.
1 l. (10 %) 1 répl. 0,8 l. 		1 sc. 8 l. (1 %) 8,0 pers.
Dorcas
Mopsa		 4 l. (43 %) 6 répl. 0,5 l.
5 l. (58 %) 5 répl. 0,9 l. 		1 sc. 8 l. (1 %) 10,0 pers.
Emilia
Paulina		 12 l. (46 %) 3 répl. 4,0 l.
15 l. (55 %) 4 répl. 3,5 l. 		1 sc. 26 l. (2 %) 3,0 pers.
Florizel
Leontes		 23 l. (46 %) 6 répl. 3,7 l.
27 l. (55 %) 6 répl. 4,5 l. 		1 sc. 49 l. (3 %) 8,0 pers.
Florizel
First Lord		 2 l. (22 %) 1 répl. 1,5 l.
6 l. (79 %) 1 répl. 5,3 l. 		1 sc. 7 l. (1 %) 8,0 pers.
Florizel
Perdita		 32 l. (44 %) 7 répl. 4,6 l.
43 l. (57 %) 9 répl. 4,7 l. 		1 sc. 74 l. (4 %) 10,0 pers.
Florizel
Polixenes		 20 l. (43 %) 9 répl. 2,1 l.
26 l. (58 %) 9 répl. 2,8 l. 		1 sc. 45 l. (3 %) 10,0 pers.
Florizel
Old Shepherd		 6 l. (30 %) 3 répl. 1,7 l.
12 l. (71 %) 3 répl. 4,0 l. 		1 sc. 17 l. (1 %) 10,0 pers.
Gaoler
Paulina		 7 l. (34 %) 6 répl. 1,0 l.
13 l. (67 %) 6 répl. 2,0 l. 		1 sc. 18 l. (1 %) 3,0 pers.
First Gentleman
Second Gentleman		 11 l. (74 %) 1 répl. 10,4 l.
4 l. (27 %) 1 répl. 3,7 l. 		1 sc. 14 l. (1 %) 6,0 pers.
First Gentleman
Third Gentleman		 3 l. (12 %) 3 répl. 1,0 l.
24 l. (89 %) 3 répl. 7,7 l. 		1 sc. 26 l. (2 %) 6,0 pers.
Second Gentleman
Third Gentleman		 8 l. (20 %) 3 répl. 2,6 l.
33 l. (81 %) 3 répl. 10,8 l. 		1 sc. 40 l. (2 %) 6,0 pers.
Hermione
Leontes		 85 l. (63 %) 20 répl. 4,2 l.
52 l. (38 %) 18 répl. 2,9 l. 		3 sc. 137 l. (7 %) 6,2 pers.
Hermione
First Lord		 19 l. (93 %) 1 répl. 18,2 l.
2 l. (8 %) 1 répl. 1,6 l. 		1 sc. 20 l. (1 %) 8,0 pers.
Hermione
Mamillius		 5 l. (61 %) 4 répl. 1,2 l.
4 l. (40 %) 4 répl. 0,8 l. 		1 sc. 8 l. (1 %) 7,0 pers.
Hermione
Officer		 4 l. (28 %) 1 répl. 3,1 l.
9 l. (73 %) 1 répl. 8,1 l. 		1 sc. 11 l. (1 %) 8,0 pers.
Hermione
Paulina		 6 l. (55 %) 1 répl. 5,3 l.
5 l. (46 %) 1 répl. 4,5 l. 		1 sc. 10 l. (1 %) 6,0 pers.
Hermione
Polixenes		 21 l. (58 %) 7 répl. 2,9 l.
15 l. (43 %) 7 répl. 2,1 l. 		1 sc. 35 l. (2 %) 5,0 pers.
First Lady
Mamillius		 2 l. (32 %) 3 répl. 0,5 l.
4 l. (69 %) 3 répl. 1,0 l. 		1 sc. 5 l. (1 %) 7,0 pers.
Leontes
First Lord		 54 l. (75 %) 13 répl. 4,1 l.
19 l. (26 %) 8 répl. 2,3 l. 		4 sc. 72 l. (4 %) 7,3 pers.
Leontes
Mamillius		 46 l. (98 %) 4 répl. 11,3 l.
2 l. (3 %) 4 répl. 0,3 l. 		1 sc. 47 l. (3 %) 5,0 pers.
Leontes
Officer		 7 l. (77 %) 4 répl. 1,7 l.
3 l. (24 %) 2 répl. 1,0 l. 		1 sc. 9 l. (1 %) 8,0 pers.
Leontes
Paulina		 94 l. (40 %) 33 répl. 2,8 l.
143 l. (61 %) 37 répl. 3,8 l. 		4 sc. 236 l. (11 %) 7,1 pers.
Leontes
Perdita		 9 l. (85 %) 2 répl. 4,0 l.
2 l. (16 %) 1 répl. 1,5 l. 		1 sc. 10 l. (1 %) 7,2 pers.
Leontes
Polixenes		 29 l. (56 %) 9 répl. 3,1 l.
23 l. (45 %) 8 répl. 2,8 l. 		2 sc. 51 l. (3 %) 5,2 pers.
Leontes
Servant		 14 l. (61 %) 8 répl. 1,7 l.
9 l. (40 %) 8 répl. 1,1 l. 		3 sc. 22 l. (1 %) 7,4 pers.
First Lord
Paulina		 3 l. (11 %) 4 répl. 0,7 l.
23 l. (90 %) 2 répl. 11,3 l. 		2 sc. 25 l. (2 %) 7,1 pers.
Paulina
Servant		 8 l. (52 %) 3 répl. 2,5 l.
7 l. (49 %) 3 répl. 2,3 l. 		2 sc. 14 l. (1 %) 7,1 pers.
Perdita
Polixenes		 13 l. (35 %) 5 répl. 2,4 l.
23 l. (66 %) 5 répl. 4,6 l. 		1 sc. 35 l. (2 %) 10,0 pers.
Perdita
Old Shepherd		 3 l. (15 %) 1 répl. 2,2 l.
13 l. (86 %) 2 répl. 6,3 l. 		1 sc. 15 l. (1 %) 10,0 pers.
Polixenes
Servant		 2 l. (14 %) 1 répl. 1,4 l.
9 l. (87 %) 2 répl. 4,4 l. 		1 sc. 10 l. (1 %) 10,0 pers.
Polixenes
Old Shepherd		 8 l. (46 %) 3 répl. 2,5 l.
9 l. (55 %) 4 répl. 2,2 l. 		1 sc. 16 l. (1 %) 10,0 pers.
Servant
Old Shepherd		 10 l. (71 %) 2 répl. 4,8 l.
4 l. (30 %) 2 répl. 2,0 l. 		1 sc. 14 l. (1 %) 10,0 pers.
Time 24 l. (100 %) 1 répl. 23,4 l. 1 sc. 23 l. (2 %) 1,0 pers.

The Winters Tale from Mr. William Shakespeares comedies, histories, & tragedies. Published according to the true originall copies.

Mr. VVilliam Shakespeares comedies, histories, & tragedies

Bodleian First Folio, Arch. G c.7

Shakespeare, William, 1564-1616. Heminge, John, approximately 1556-1630 Condell, Henry, -1627

Autres contributions

Droeshout, Martin, 1601- : engraver.
Jaggard, Isaac, -1627 : printer.
Blount, Edward, fl. 1594-1632 : printer.
Jaggard, William, 1569-1623 : publisher.
Smethwicke, John, -1641 : publisher.
Aspley, William, -1640 : publisher.
Bodleian Digital Library Systems and Services : creation of electronic edition.
Invida Trans It Solutions PVT. LTD. : preliminary keying and encoding by.
Pip Willcox : project management ; proofing ; encoding.
Lucienne Cummings : proofing ; encoding.
Judith Siefring : proofing ; encoding.
Emma Stanford : proofing ; encoding.
James Cummings : encoding consultation.
Sprint for Shakespeare Crowdfunding The second phase of the Bodleian First Folio project was made possible by a lead gift from Dr Geoffrey Eibl-Kaye and generous support from the Sallie Dickson Memorial Fund/Dallas Shakespeare Club Fund, Mr James Barber, and a private individual. The Bodleian Libraries are very grateful for this additional support, which brings new features to the digitized First Folio, enabling more efficient and intuitive use for all with an interest in Shakespeare, early modern drama, theatre and book history. First publication edition. Bodleian Libraries, University of Oxford Bodleian Digital Library Systems and Services
Osney One Building
Osney Mead
Oxford
OX2 0EW

Available for reuse, according to the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported.

url url
Shakespeare, William, 1564-1616. Mr. William Shakespeares comedies, histories, & tragedies.: Published according to the true originall copies.Mr. VVilliam Shakespeares comedies, histories, & tragediesFirst FolioLondon, England: William Jaggard, Edward Blount, John SmethwickeBodleian Library, Arch. G c.7S111228015592789
United Kingdom, Oxford, University of Oxford, Bodleian Library, Bodleian Library, Arch. G c.7, S 2.17 Art. [first Bodleian shelfmark, 1624-1664?], Arch. F c.13 [superscript z?] [second Bodleian shelfmark, 1906-?].
Mr VVILLIAM
SHAKESPEARES
COMEDIES,
HISTORIES, &
TRAGEDIES.
Publiſhed according to the True Originall Copies.
London : Printed by Isaac Iaggard, and Ed. Blount [at the charges of W. Iaggard, Ed. Blount, I. Smithweeke, and W. Aspley]., .
349 x 323.

[18], 303, [1], 46, 49-100, [2], 69-232, [2], 79-80, [26], 76, 79-82, 80-98, [2], 109-156, 257-993 [i.e. 399], [1] p.; fol.

Numbering peculiarities: 1st count: p.50 misnumbered 58; p.59 misnumbered 51; p.86 misnumbered 88; p.153 misnumbered 151; p.161 misnumbered] 163; p.164 misnumbered 162; p. 165 misnumbered 163; p. 189 misnumbered 187; p. 249 misnumbered 251; p.250 misnumbered 252; p. 265 misnumbered 273 -- 2nd count: p.37 misnumbered 39 in some copies; p.89 misnumbered 91; p. 90 misnumbered 92 -- 3rd count: p.165-166 numbered 167 and 168 respectively; p. 216 numbered 218 -- 5th count: p. 279 misnumbered 259; p. 282 misnumbered 280; p.308 misnumbered 38; p. 379 misnumbered 389; p. 399 misnumbered 993.

The signatures varies between sources, with the most commonly cited being Hinman's and West's: 1. Hinman: πA⁶ (πA1+1) [πB²], ²A-2B⁶ 2C² a-g⁶ χgg⁸ h-v⁶ x⁴ χ1.2 [para.]-2[para.]⁶ 3[para]¹ aa-ff⁶ gg² Gg⁶ hh⁶ kk-bbb⁶; 2. West: πA⁶ (πA1+1, πA5+1.2)²A-2B⁶ 2C² a-g⁶ ²g⁸ h-v⁶ x⁴ 'gg3.4' (±'gg3') [para.]-2[para.]⁶ 3[para]¹ 2a-2f⁶ 2g² 2G⁶ 2h⁶ 2k-2v⁶ x⁶ 2y-3b⁶.

Mis-signed leaves: a3 mis-signed Aa3; ³gg1 mis-signed Gg; nn1-nn2 mis-signed Nn and Nn2 and oo1 mis-signed Oo.

"The life and death of King Iohn" begins new pagination on leaf a1 recto; "The tragedy of Coriolanus" begins new pagination on leaf aa1 recto.

Lacks A1, the letterpress frontispiece entitled "To the reader". The title page is trimmed and mounted, with a section of the mount towards the foot of the leaf mutilated resulting in the loss of some the Droechout imprint at the bottom left hand corner of the portrait and the central section of an early MS note. For a full condition report, including a full survey of damage and repairs, please contact Rare Books.

Predominantly printed in double columns.

Text within simple lined frame.

Colophon reads: "Printed at the charges of W. Iaggard, Ed. Blount, I. Smithweeke, and W. Aspley. 1623.".

Editors’ dedication signed: Iohn Heminge. Henry Condell.

Head- and tail- pieces; initials.With an engraved title-page portrait of the author signed: "Martin- Droeshout: sculpsit· London.". The plate exists in 2 states: 1. The earlier state has lighter shading generall ; 2. Later state has heavier shading, especially around the collar, and minor differences particularly with the jawline and moustache. The vast majority of surviving copies have the plate in the second state which has led some scholars to conclude that the earlier state was a proof. The portrait in this copy is the second state.

Two MS verses on first endpaper verso: 1. 9 lines of verse by an unknown author, first line reads "An active swain to make a leap was seen". 2. A copy of Ben Jonson’s printed "To the Reader"; MS note on t.p. (mutilated) appears to read "Honest [Shakes]peare". Minor annotations on leaf 2n4 (Macbeth). All in an early English hand, presumably added after leaving the Library.

Seventeenth-century (1624) English (Oxford) smooth calf. Bound for the Bodleian Library by William Wildgoose, with evidence of two cloth ties, red sprinkled edge. Formerly chained, with evidence of chain staple at the head of the upper cover. Remains of paper label at the head of the spine. Enclosed in 20th century book box by Maltby of Oxford. See S. Gibson in Original Bodleian Copy of First Folio, p. 12-13. One of four items sent out on 17th February 1624 for binding by Wildgoose containing printed waste from a copy of Cicero’s "De Officiis, et al." [Deventer: Richard Pafraet, between 1480 and 1485] as paste-downs. For more information on this work see: Bod. Inc. Cat., C-322.

For further details on the printing of this item see Hinman, Charleton. The printing and proof-reading of the First Folio of Shakespeare: Oxford, 1963.

Acquired by the Bodleian in 1623, presumably in sheets. It was sent out to William Wildgoose on for binding (see: Library Records e.258, fol. 48r) and upon its return chained in Duke Humfrey at shelfmark S 2.17 Art. It is listed in the Bodleian’s catalogue of printed books but was gone by the publication of the next catalogue in , replaced by the newer Third Folio (). There is no explicit reference in Library Records to the disposal of this copy, but there is a record of a sale of "superfluous library books" to Richard Davis, a bookseller in Oxford, in for the sum of £24.

After leaving the Bodleian this copy entered the collection of Richard Turbutt of Ogston Hall, Derbyshire at some point in the early 18th century. It stayed in the family’s possession until , when it was reacquired by the Bodleian for the sum of £3000, raised by public subscription. For a full discussion of the rediscovery and purchase of this copy see: F. Madan, G. M. R. Turbutt and S. Gibson, The Original Bodleian Copy of the First Folio of Shakespeare (theTurbutt Shakespeare) (Oxford, 1905)

For a full discussion of this copy and the digital version see http://shakespeare.bodleian.ox.ac.uk/ and West and Rasmussen (2011), 31.

Digital facsimile images available at: http://firstfolio.bodleian.ox.ac.uk/.
Second Lady 2. Lady. Antigonus, a lord of Sicilia Ant. Antig. Archidamus, a lord of Bohemia Arch. Autolycus, a rogue Aut. Aut: Autol. Camillo, a lord of Sicilia Cam. Cleomenes, a lord of Sicilia Cleo. Clown, son of the old Shepherd Clo. Clow. Clowne. Dion, a lord of Sicilia Dio. Dion. Dorcas, a shepherdess Dor. Dor: Dorcas. Emilia, a lady attending on Hermione Emil. Florizel, prince of Bohemia Flo. Gaoler Gao. First Gentleman Gent. 1. Second Gentleman Gent. 2. Third Gentleman Gent. 3. Hermione, queen to Leontes Her. First Lady Lady. Leontes, king of Sicilia Leo. Leon. First Lord Lord. Lords Lords. Mamillius, young prince of Sicilia Mam. Mariner Mar. Mopsa, a shepherdess Mop. Mop: Officer Offic. Officer. Paulina, wife to Antigonus Pau. Paul. Perdita, daughter to Leontes and Hermione Per. Perd. Polixenes, king of Bohemia Pol. Servant Ser. Seru. Seruant. Old Shepherd, reputed father of Perdita Shep. Time, as the chorus Time.
[p. 277]

The Winters Tale.

Actus Primus. Scœna Prima.

[Act 1, Scene 1]

Enter Camillo and Archidamus.

Arch.

1IF you shall chance (Camillo) to visit Bohemia, on [l. 2] the like occasion whereon my seruices are now [l. 3] on‑foot, you shall see (as I haue said) great dif­ [l. 4] ference betwixt our Bohemia, and your Sicilia.

Cam.

5I thinke, this comming Summer, the King of [l. 6] Sicilia meanes to pay Bohemia the Visitation, which hee [l. 7] iustly owes him.

Arch.

8Wherein our Entertainment shall shame vs: we [l. 9] will be iustified in our Loues: for indeed———

Cam.

10'Beseech you———

Arch.

11Verely I speake it in the freedome of my know­ [l. 12] ledge: we cannot with such magnificence——— in so rare—— [l. 13] I know not what to say——— Wee will giue you sleepie [l. 14] Drinkes, that your Sences (vn‑intelligent of our insuffi­ [l. 15] cience) may, though they cannot prayse vs, as little ac­ [l. 16] cuse vs.

Cam.

17You pay a great deale to deare, for what’s giuen [l. 18] freely.

Arch.

19'Beleeue me, I speake as my vnderstanding in­ [l. 20] structs me, and as mine honestie puts it to vtterance.

Cam.

21Sicilia cannot shew himselfe ouer‑kind to Bohe­ [l. 22] mia: They were trayn’d together in their Child‑hoods; [l. 23] and there rooted betwixt them then such an affection, [l. 24] which cannot chuse but braunch now. Since their more [l. 25] mature Dignities, and Royall Necessities, made seperati­ [l. 26] on of their Societie, their Encounters (though not Perso­ [l. 27] nall) hath been Royally attornyed with enter‑change of [l. 28] Gifts, Letters, louing Embassies, that they haue seem’d to [l. 29] be together, though absent: shooke hands, as ouer a Vast; [l. 30] and embrac’d as it were from the ends of opposed Winds. [l. 31] The Heauens continue their Loues.

Arch.

32I thinke there is not in the World, either Malice [l. 33] or Matter, to alter it. You haue an vnspeakable comfort [l. 34] of your young Prince Mamillius: it is a Gentleman of the [l. 35] greatest Promise, that euer came into my Note.

Cam.

36I very well agree with you, in the hopes of him: [l. 37] it is a gallant Child; one, that (indeed) Physicks the Sub­ [l. 38] iect, makes old hearts fresh: they that went on Crutches [l. 39] ere he was borne, desire yet their life, to see him a Man.

Arch.

40Would they else be content to die?

Cam.

41Yes; if there were no other excuse, why they should [l. 42] desire to liue.

Arch.

43If the King had no Sonne, they would desire to [l. 44] liue on Crutches till he had one.

Exeunt.

Scœna Secunda.

[Act 1, Scene 2]

Enter Leontes, Hermione, Mamillius, Polixenes, Camillo.

Pol.

45Nine Changes of the Watry‑Starre hath been

The Shepheards Note, since we haue left our Throne
Without a Burthen: Time as long againe
Would be fill’d vp (my Brother) with our Thanks,
And yet we should, for perpetuitie,
50 Goe hence in debt: And therefore, like a Cypher
(Yet standing in rich place) I multiply
With one we thanke you, many thousands moe,
That goe before it.

Leo.

Stay your Thanks a while,
55 And pay them when you part.

Pol.

Sir, that’s to morrow:
I am question’d by my feares, of what may chance,
Or breed vpon our absence, that may blow
No sneaping Winds at home, to make vs say,
60 This is put forth too truly: besides, I haue stay’d
To tyre your Royaltie.

Leo.

We are tougher (Brother)
Then you can put vs to’t.

Pol.

64No longer stay.

Leo.

65One Seue’night longer.

Pol.

66Very sooth, to morrow.

Leo.

67Wee’le part the time between’s then: and in that [l. 68] Ile no gaine‑saying.

Pol.

Presse me not ('beseech you) so:
70 There is no Tongue that moues; none, none i’th’World
So soone as yours, could win me: so it should now,
Were there necessitie in your request, although
'Twere needfull I deny’d it. My Affaires
Doe euen drag me home‑ward: which to hinder,
75 Were (in your Loue) a Whip to me; my stay,
To you a Charge, and Trouble: to saue both,
Farewell (our Brother.)

Leo.

78Tongue‑ty’d our Queene? speake you.

Her.

I had thought (Sir) to haue held my peace, vntill
80 You had drawne Oathes from him, not to stay: you (Sir)
Charge him too coldly. Tell him, you are sure
All in Bohemia’s well: this satisfaction,
The by‑gone‑day proclaim’d, say this to him,
He’s beat from his best ward.

Leo.

85Well said, Hermione.

Her.

To tell, he longs to see his Sonne, were strong:
But let him say so then, and let him goe;
But let him sweare so, and he shall not stay,
Wee’l thwack him hence with Distaffes.
90 Yet of your Royall presence, Ile aduenture
The borrow of a Weeke. When at Bohemia
You take my Lord, Ile giue him my Commission,
To let him there a Moneth, behind the Gest
Prefix’d for’s parting: yet (good‑deed) Leontes,
95 I loue thee not a Iarre o’th’Clock, behind
Aa What [p. 278] The Winters Tale.
What Lady she her Lord. You’le stay:

Pol.

97No, Madame.

Her.

98Nay, but you will?

Pol.

99I may not verily.

Her.

100Verely?

You put me off with limber Vowes: but I,
Though you would seek t’vnsphere the Stars with Oaths,
Should yet say, Sir, no going: Verely
You shall not goe; a Ladyes Verely 'is
105 As potent as a Lords. Will you goe yet?
Force me to keepe you as a Prisoner,
Not like a Guest: so you shall pay your Fees
When you depart, and saue your Thanks. How say you?
My Prisoner? or my Guest? by your dread Verely,
110 One of them you shall be.

Pol.

Your Guest then, Madame:
To be your Prisoner, should import offending;
Which is for me, lesse easie to commit,
Then you to punish.

Her.

115 Not your Gaoler then,
But your kind Hostesse. Come, Ile question you
Of my Lords Tricks, and yours, when you were Boyes:
You were pretty Lordings then?

Pol.

We were (faire Queene)
120 Two Lads, that thought there was no more behind,
But such a day to morrow, as to day,
And to be Boy eternall.

Her.

Was not my Lord
The veryer Wag o’th’two?

Pol.

125 We were as twyn’d Lambs, that did frisk i’th’Sun,
And bleat the one at th’other: what we chang’d,
Was Innocence, for Innocence: we knew not
The Doctrine of ill‑doing, nor dream’d
That any did: Had we pursu’d that life,
130 And our weake Spirits ne’re been higher rear’d
With stronger blood, we should haue answer’d Heauen
Boldly, not guilty; the Imposition clear’d,
Hereditarie ours.

Her.

By this we gather
135 You haue tript since.

Pol.

O my most sacred Lady,
Temptations haue since then been borne to’s: for
In those vnfledg’d dayes, was my Wife a Girle;
Your precious selfe had then not cross’d the eyes
140 Of my young Play‑fellow.

Her.

Grace to boot:
Of this make no conclusion, least you say
Your Queene and I are Deuils: yet goe on,
Th’offences we haue made you doe, wee’le answere,
145 If you first sinn’d with vs: and that with vs
You did continue fault; and that you slipt not
With any, but with vs.

Leo.

148Is he woon yet?

Her.

149Hee’le stay (my Lord.)

Leo.

150 At my request, he would not:
Hermione (my dearest) thou neuer spoak’st
To better purpose.

Her.

153Neuer?

Leo.

154Neuer, but once.

Her.

155 What? haue I twice said well? when was’t before?
I prethee tell me: cram’s with prayse, and make’s
As fat as tame things: One good deed, dying tonguelesse,
Slaughters a thousand, wayting vpon that.
Our prayses are our Wages. You may ride’s
160 With one soft Kisse a thousand Furlongs, ere
With Spur we heat an Acre. But to th’Goale:
My last good deed, was to entreat his stay.
What was my first: it ha’s an elder Sister,
Or I mistake you: O, would her Name were Grace.
165 But once before I spoke to th’purpose? when?
Nay, let me haue’t: I long.

Leo.

Why, that was when
Three crabbed Moneths had sowr’d themselues to death,
Ere I could make thee open thy white Hand:
170 A clap thy selfe, my Loue; then didst thou vtter,
I am yours for euer.

Her.

'Tis Grace indeed.
Why lo‑you now; I haue spoke to th’purpose twice:
The one, for euer earn’d a Royall Husband;
175 Th’other, for some while a Friend.

Leo.

Too hot, too hot:
To mingle friendship farre, is mingling bloods.
I haue Tremor Cordis on me: my heart daunces,
But not for ioy; not ioy. This Entertainment
180 May a free face put on: deriue a Libertie
From Heartinesse, from Bountie, fertile Bosome,
And well become the Agent: 't may; I graunt:
But to be padling Palmes, and pinching Fingers,
As now they are, and making practis’d Smiles
185 As in a Looking‑Glasse; and then to sigh, as 'twere
The Mort o’th’Deere: oh, that is entertainment
My Bosome likes not, nor my Browes. Mamillius,
Art thou my Boy?

Mam.

189I, my good Lord.

Leo.

190 I’fecks:
Why that’s my Bawcock: what? Has’t smutch’d thy Nose?
They say it is a Coppy out of mine. Come Captaine,
We must be neat; not neat, but cleanly, Captaine:
And yet the Steere, the Heycfer, and the Calfe,
195 Are all call’d Neat. Still Virginalling
Vpon his Palme? How now (you wanton Calfe)
Art thou my Calfe?

Mam.

198Yes, if you will (my Lord.)

Leo.

Thou want’st a rough pash, & the shoots that I haue
200 To be full, like me: yet they say we are
Almost as like as Egges; Women say so,
(That will say any thing.) But were they false
As o’re‑dy’d Blacks, as Wind, as Waters; false
As Dice are to be wish’d, by one that fixes
205 No borne 'twixt his and mine; yet were it true,
To say this Boy were like me. Come (Sir Page)
Looke on me with your Welkin eye: sweet Villaine,
Most dear’st, my Collop: Can thy Dam, may’t be
Affection? thy Intention stabs the Center.
210 Thou do’st make possible things not so held,
Communicat’st with Dreames (how can this be?)
With what’s vnreall: thou coactiue art,
And fellow’st nothing. Then 'tis very credent,
Thou may’st co‑ioyne with something, and thou do’st,
215 (And that beyond Commission) and I find it,
(And that to the infection of my Braines,
And hardning of my Browes.)

Pol.

218What meanes Sicilia?

Her.

219He something seemes vnsetled.

Pol.

220How? my Lord?

Leo.

221What cheere? how is’t with you, best Brother?

Her.

222You look as if you held a Brow of much distraction: [l. 223] Are you mou’d (my Lord?)

Leo.

No, in good earnest.
225 How sometimes Nature will betray it’s folly?
It’s tendernesse? and make it selfe a Pastime
To harder bosomes? Looking on the Lynes
Of [p. 279] The Winters Tale.
Of my Boyes face, me thoughts I did requoyle
Twentie three yeeres, and saw my selfe vn‑breech’d,
230 In my greene Veluet Coat; my Dagger muzzled,
Least it should bite it’s Master, and so proue
(As Ornaments oft do’s) too dangerous:
How like (me thought) I then was to this Kernell,
This Squash, this Gentleman. Mine honest Friend,
235 Will you take Egges for Money?

Mam.

236No (my Lord) Ile fight.

Leo.

You will: why happy man be’s dole. My Brother
Are you so fond of your young Prince, as we
Doe seeme to be of ours?

Pol.

240 If at home (Sir)
He’s all my Exercise, my Mirth, my Matter;
Now my sworne Friend, and then mine Enemy;
My Parasite, my Souldier: States‑man; all:
He makes a Iulyes day, short as December,
245 And with his varying child‑nesse, cures in me
Thoughts, that would thick my blood.

Leo.

So stands this Squire
Offic’d with me: We two will walke (my Lord)
And leaue you to your grauer steps. Hermione,
250 How thou lou’st vs, shew in our Brothers welcome;
Let what is deare in Sicily, be cheape:
Next to thy selfe, and my young Rouer, he’s
Apparant to my heart.

Her.

If you would seeke vs,
255 We are yours i’th’Garden: shall’s attend you there?

Leo.

To your owne bents dispose you: you’le be found,
Be you beneath the Sky: I am angling now,
(Though you perceiue me not how I giue Lyne)
Goe too, goe too.
260 How she holds vp the Neb? the Byll to him?
And armes her with the boldnesse of a Wife
To her allowing Husband. Gone already,
Ynch‑thick, knee‑deepe; ore head and eares a fork’d one.
Goe play (Boy) play: thy Mother playes, and I
265 Play too; but so disgrac’d a part, whose issue
Will hisse me to my Graue: Contempt and Clamor
Will be my Knell. Goe play (Boy) play, there haue been
(Or I am much deceiu’d) Cuckolds ere now,
And many a man there is (euen at this present,
270 Now, while I speake this) holds his Wife by th’Arme,
That little thinkes she ha’s been sluyc’d in’s absence,
And his Pond fish’d by his next Neighbor (by
Sir Smile, his Neighbor:) nay, there’s comfort in’t,
Whiles other men haue Gates, and those Gates open’d
275 (As mine) against their will. Should all despaire
That haue reuolted Wiues, the tenth of Mankind
Would hang themselues. Physick for’t, there’s none:
It is a bawdy Planet, that will strike
Where 'tis predominant; and 'tis powrefull: thinke it:
280 From East, West, North, and South, be it concluded,
No Barricado for a Belly. Know’t,
It will let in and out the Enemy,
With bag and baggage: many thousand on’s
Haue the Disease, and feele’t not. How now Boy?

Mam.

285I am like you say.

Leo.

Why, that’s some comfort.
What? Camillo there?

Cam.

288I, my good Lord.

Leo.

Goe play (Mamillius) thou’rt an honest man:
290 Camillo, this great Sir will yet stay longer.

Cam.

You had much adoe to make his Anchor hold,
When you cast out, it still came home.

Leo.

293Didst note it?

Cam.

294He would not stay at your Petitions, made [l. 295] His Businesse more materiall.

Leo.

Didst perceiue it?
They’re here with me already; whisp’ring, rounding:
Sicilia is a so‑forth: 'tis farre gone,
When I shall gust it last. How cam’t (Camillo)
300 That he did stay?

Cam.

301At the good Queenes entreatie.

Leo.

At the Queenes be’t: Good should be pertinent,
But so it is, it is not. Was this taken
By any vnderstanding Pate but thine?
305 For thy Conceit is soaking, will draw in
More then the common Blocks. Not noted, is’t,
But of the finer Natures? by some Seueralls
Of Head‑peece extraordinarie? Lower Messes
Perchance are to this Businesse purblind? say.

Cam.

310Businesse, my Lord? I thinke most vnderstand [l. 311] Bohemia stayes here longer.

Leo.

312Ha?

Cam.

313Stayes here longer.

Leo.

314I, but why?

Cam.

315To satisfie your Highnesse, and the Entreaties [l. 316] Of our most gracious Mistresse.

Leo.

Satisfie?
Th’entreaties of your Mistresse? Satisfie?
Let that suffice. I haue trusted thee (Camillo)
320 With all the neerest things to my heart, as well
My Chamber‑Councels, wherein (Priest‑like) thou
Hast cleans’d my Bosome: I, from thee departed
Thy Penitent reform’d: but we haue been
Deceiu’d in thy Integritie, deceiu’d
325 In that which seemes so.

Cam.

326Be it forbid (my Lord.)

Leo.

To bide vpon’t: thou art not honest: or
If thou inclin’st that way, thou art a Coward,
Which hoxes honestie behind, restrayning
330 From Course requir’d: or else thou must be counted
A Seruant, grafted in my serious Trust,
And therein negligent: or else a Foole,
That seest a Game play’d home, the rich Stake drawne,
And tak’st it all for ieast.

Cam.

335 My gracious Lord,
I may be negligent, foolish, and fearefull,
In euery one of these, no man is free,
But that his negligence, his folly, feare,
Among the infinite doings of the World,
340 Sometime puts forth in your affaires (my Lord.)
If euer I were wilfull‑negligent,
It was my folly: if industriously
I play’d the Foole, it was my negligence,
Not weighing well the end: if euer fearefull
345 To doe a thing, where I the issue doubted,
Whereof the execution did cry out
Against the non‑performance, 'twas a feare
Which oft infects the wisest: these (my Lord)
Are such allow’d Infirmities, that honestie
350 Is neuer free of. But beseech your Grace
Be plainer with me, let me know my Trespas
By it’s owne visage; if I then deny it,
'Tis none of mine.

Leo.

354Ha’ not you seene Camillo?

355 (But that’s past doubt: you haue, or your eye‑glasse
Is thicker then a Cuckolds Horne) or heard?
(For to a Vision so apparant, Rumor
Cannot be mute) or thought? (for Cogitation
Resides not in that man, that do’s not thinke)
Aa2 My [p. 280] The Winters Tale.
360 My Wife is slipperie? If thou wilt confesse,
Or else be impudently negatiue,
To haue nor Eyes, nor Eares, nor Thought, then say
My Wife’s a Holy‑Horse, deserues a Name
As ranke as any Flax‑Wench, that puts to
365 Before her troth‑plight: say’t, and iustify’t.

Cam.

I would not be a stander‑by, to heare
My Soueraigne Mistresse clouded so, without
My present vengeance taken: 'shrew my heart,
You neuer spoke what did become you lesse
370 Then this; which to reiterate, were sin
As deepe as that, though true.

Leo.

Is whispering nothing?
Is leaning Cheeke to Cheeke? is meating Noses?
Kissing with in‑side Lip? stopping the Cariere
375 Of Laughter, with a sigh? (a Note infallible
Of breaking Honestie) horsing foot on foot?
Skulking in corners? wishing Clocks more swift?
Houres, Minutes? Noone, Mid‑night? and all Eyes
Blind with the Pin and Web, but theirs; theirs onely,
380 That would vnseene be wicked? Is this nothing?
Why then the World, and all that’s in’t, is nothing,
The couering Skie is nothing, Bohemia nothing,
My Wife is nothing, nor Nothing haue these Nothings,
If this be nothing.

Cam.

385 Good my Lord, be cur’d
Of this diseas’d Opinion, and betimes,
For 'tis most dangerous.

Leo.

388Say it be, 'tis true.

Cam.

389No, no, my Lord.

Leo.

390 It is: you lye, you lye:
I say thou lyest Camillo, and I hate thee,
Pronounce thee a grosse Lowt, a mindlesse Slaue,
Or else a houering Temporizer, that
Canst with thine eyes at once see good and euill,
395 Inclining to them both: were my Wiues Liuer
Infected (as her life) she would not liue
The running of one Glasse.

Cam.

398Who do’s infect her?

Leo.

Why he that weares her like her Medull, hanging
400 About his neck (Bohemia) who, if I
Had Seruants true about me, that bare eyes
To see alike mine Honor, as their Profits,
(Their owne particular Thrifts) they would doe that
Which should vndoe more doing: I, and thou
405 His Cup‑bearer, whom I from meaner forme
Haue Bench’d, and rear’d to Worship, who may’st see
Plainely, as Heauen sees Earth, and Earth sees Heauen,
How I am gall’d, might’st be‑spice a Cup,
To giue mine Enemy a lasting Winke:
410 Which Draught to me, were cordiall.

Cam.

Sir (my Lord)
I could doe this, and that with no rash Potion,
But with a lingring Dram, that should not worke
Maliciously, like Poyson: But I cannot
415 Beleeue this Crack to be in my dread Mistresse
(So soueraignely being Honorable.)
I haue lou’d thee,

Leo.

Make that thy question, and goe rot:
Do’st thinke I am so muddy, so vnsetled,
420 To appoint my selfe in this vexation?
Sully the puritie and whitenesse of my Sheetes
(Which to preserue, is Sleepe; which being spotted,
Is Goades, Thornes, Nettles, Tayles of Waspes)
Giue scandall to the blood o’th’Prince, my Sonne,
425 (Who I doe thinke is mine, and loue as mine)
Without ripe mouing to’t? Would I doe this?
Could man so blench?

Cam.

I must beleeue you (Sir)
I doe, and will fetch off Bohemia for’t:
430 Prouided, that when hee’s remou’d, your Highnesse
Will take againe your Queene, as yours at first,
Euen for your Sonnes sake, and thereby for sealing
The Iniurie of Tongues, in Courts and Kingdomes
Knowne, and ally’d to yours.

Leo.

435 Thou do’st aduise me,
Euen so as I mine owne course haue set downe:
Ile giue no blemish to her Honor, none.

Cam.

My Lord,
Goe then; and with a countenance as cleare
440 As Friendship weares at Feasts, keepe with Bohemia,
And with your Queene: I am his Cup‑bearer,
If from me he haue wholesome Beueridge,
Account me not your Seruant.

Leo.

This is all:
445 Do’t, and thou hast the one halfe of my heart;
Do’t not, thou splitt’st thine owne.

Cam.

447Ile do’t, my Lord.

Leo.

448I wil seeme friendly, as thou hast aduis’d me.

Exit

Cam.

O miserable Lady. But for me,
450 What case stand I in? I must be the poysoner
Of good Polixenes, and my ground to do’t,
Is the obedience to a Master; one,
Who in Rebellion with himselfe, will haue
All that are his, so too. To doe this deed,
455 Promotion followes: If I could find example
Of thousand’s that had struck anoynted Kings,
And flourish’d after, Il’d not do’t: But since
Nor Brasse, nor Stone, nor Parchment beares not one,
Let Villanie it selfe forswear’t. I must
460 Forsake the Court: to do’t, or no, is certaine
To me a breake‑neck. Happy Starre raigne now,
Here comes Bohemia.
Enter Polixenes.

Pol.

This is strange: Me thinks
My fauor here begins to warpe. Not speake?
465 Good day Camillo.

Cam.

466Hayle most Royall Sir.

Pol.

467What is the Newes i’th’Court?

Cam.

468None rare (my Lord.)

Pol.

The King hath on him such a countenance,
470 As he had lost some Prouince, and a Region
Lou’d, as he loues himselfe: euen now I met him
With customarie complement, when hee
Wafting his eyes to th’contrary, and falling
A Lippe of much contempt, speedes from me, and
475 So leaues me, to consider what is breeding,
That changes thus his Manners.

Cam.

477I dare not know (my Lord.)

Pol.

How, dare not? doe not? doe you know, and dare not?
Be intelligent to me, 'tis thereabouts:
480 For to your selfe, what you doe know, you must,
And cannot say, you dare not. Good Camillo,
Your chang’d complexions are to me a Mirror,
Which shewes me mine chang’d too: for I must be
A partie in this alteration, finding
485 My selfe thus alter’d with’t.

Cam.

There is a sicknesse
Which puts some of vs in distemper, but
I cannot name the Disease, and it is caught
Of you, that yet are well.

Pol.

490 How caught of me?
Make me not sighted like the Basilisque.
I haue [p. 281] The Winters Tale.
I haue look’d on thousands, who haue sped the better
By my regard, but kill’d none so: Camillo,
As you are certainely a Gentleman, thereto
495 Clerke‑like experienc’d, which no lesse adornes
Our Gentry, then our Parents Noble Names,
In whose successe we are gentle: I beseech you,
If you know ought which do’s behoue my knowledge,
Thereof to be inform’d, imprison’t not
500 In ignorant concealement.

Cam.

501I may not answere.

Pol.

A Sicknesse caught of me, and yet I well?
I must be answer’d. Do’st thou heare Camillo,
I coniure thee, by all the parts of man,
505 Which Honor do’s acknowledge, whereof the least
Is not this Suit of mine, that thou declare
What incidencie thou do’st ghesse of harme
Is creeping toward me; how farre off, how neere,
Which way to be preuented, if to be:
510 If not, how best to beare it.

Cam.

Sir, I will tell you,
Since I am charg’d in Honor, and by him
That I thinke Honorable: therefore marke my counsaile,
Which must be eu’n as swiftly followed, as
515 I meane to vtter it; or both your selfe, and me,
Cry lost, and so good night.

Pol.

517On, good Camillo.

Cam.

518I am appointed him to murther you.

Pol.

519By whom, Camillo?

Cam.

520By the King.

Pol.

521For what?

Cam.

He thinkes, nay with all confidence he sweares,
As he had seen’t, or beene an Instrument
To vice you to’t, that you haue toucht his Queene
525 Forbiddenly.

Pol.

Oh then, my best blood turne
To an infected Gelly, and my Name
Be yoak’d with his, that did betray the Best:
Turne then my freshest Reputation to
530 A sauour, that may strike the dullest Nosthrill
Where I arriue, and my approch be shun’d,
Nay hated too, worse then the great’st Infection
That ere was heard, or read.

Cam.

Sweare his thought ouer
535 By each particular Starre in Heauen, and
By all their Influences; you may as well
Forbid the Sea for to obey the Moone,
As (or by Oath) remoue, or (Counsaile) shake
The Fabrick of his Folly, whose foundation
540 Is pyl’d vpon his Faith, and will continue
The standing of his Body.

Pol.

542How should this grow?

Cam.

I know not: but I am sure 'tis safer to
Auoid what’s growne, then question how 'tis borne.
545 If therefore you dare trust my honestie,
That lyes enclosed in this Trunke, which you
Shall beare along impawnd, away to Night,
Your Followers I will whisper to the Businesse,
And will by twoes, and threes, at seuerall Posternes,
550 Cleare them o’th’Citie: For my selfe, Ile put
My fortunes to your seruice (which are here
By this discouerie lost.) Be not vncertaine,
For by the honor of my Parents, I
Haue vttred Truth: which if you seeke to proue,
555 I dare not stand by; nor shall you be safer,
Then one condemnd by the Kings owne mouth:
Thereon his Execution sworne.

Pol.

I doe beleeue thee:
I saw his heart in’s face. Giue me thy hand,
560 Be Pilot to me, and thy places shall
Still neighbour mine. My Ships are ready, and
My people did expect my hence departure
Two dayes agoe. This Iealousie
Is for a precious Creature: as shee’s rare,
565 Must it be great; and, as his Person’s mightie,
Must it be violent: and, as he do’s conceiue,
He is dishonor’d by a man, which euer
Profess’d to him: why his Reuenges must
In that be made more bitter. Feare ore‑shades me:
570 Good Expedition be my friend, and comfort
The gracious Queene, part of his Theame; but nothing
Of his ill‑ta’ne suspition. Come Camillo,
I will respect thee as a Father, if
Thou bear’st my life off, hence: Let vs auoid.

Cam.

575 It is in mine authoritie to command
The Keyes of all the Posternes: Please your Highnesse
To take the vrgent houre. Come Sir, away.
Exeunt.

Actus Secundus. Scena Prima.

[Act 2, Scene 1]

Enter Hermione, Mamillius, Ladies: Leontes,
Antigonus, Lords.

Her.

Take the Boy to you: he so troubles me,
'Tis past enduring.

Lady.

580Come (my gracious Lord) [l. 581] Shall I be your play‑fellow?

Mam.

582No, Ile none of you.

Lady.

583Why (my sweet Lord?)

Mam.

584You’le kisse me hard, and speake to me, as if [l. 585] I were a Baby still. I loue you better.

2. Lady.

586And why so (my Lord?)

Mam.

Not for because
Your Browes are blacker (yet black‑browes they say
Become some Women best, so that there be not
590 Too much haire there, but in a Cemicircle,
Or a halfe‑Moone, made with a Pen.)

2. Lady.

592Who taught 'this?

Mam.

593I learn’d it out of Womens faces: pray now, [l. 594] What colour are your eye‑browes?

Lady.

595Blew (my Lord.)

Mam.

596Nay, that’s a mock: I haue seene a Ladies Nose [l. 597] That ha’s beene blew, but not her eye‑browes.

Lady.

Harke ye,
[..]e Queene (your Mother) rounds apace: we shall
600 Present our seruices to a fine new Prince
One of these dayes, and then youl’d wanton with vs,
If we would haue you.

2. Lady.

She is spread of late
Into a goodly Bulke (good time encounter her.)

Her.

605 What wisdome stirs amongst you? Come Sir, now
I am for you againe: 'Pray you sit by vs,
And tell’s a Tale.

Mam.

Merry, or sad, shal’t be?

Her.

As merry as you will.

Mam.

610 A sad Tale’s best for Winter:
I haue one of Sprights, and Goblins.

Her.

Let’s haue that (good Sir.)
Come‑on, sit downe, come‑on, and doe your best,
To fright me with your Sprights: you’re powrefull at it.
Aa3 Mam. There [p. 282] The Winters Tale.

Mam.

615 There was a man.

Her.

Nay, come sit downe: then on.

Mam.

Dwelt by a Church‑yard: I will tell it softly,
Yond Crickets shall not heare it.

Her.

619Come on then, and giu’t me in mine eare.

Leon.

620Was hee met there? his Traine? Camillo with [l. 621] him?

Lord.

Behind the tuft of Pines I met them, neuer
Saw I men scowre so on their way: I eyed them
Euen to their Ships.

Leo.

625 How blest am I
In my iust Censure? in my true Opinion?
Alack, for lesser knowledge, how accurs’d,
In being so blest? There may be in the Cup
A Spider steep’d, and one may drinke; depart,
630 And yet partake no venome: (for his knowledge
Is not infected) but if one present
Th’abhor’d Ingredient to his eye, make knowne
How he hath drunke, he cracks his gorge, his sides
With violent Hefts: I haue drunke, and seene the Spider.
635 Camillo was his helpe in this, his Pandar:
There is a Plot against my Life, my Crowne;
All’s true that is mistrusted: that false Villaine,
Whom I employ’d, was pre‑employ’d by him:
He ha’s discouer’d my Designe, and I
640 Remaine a pinch’d Thing; yea, a very Trick
For them to play at will: how came the Posternes
So easily open?

Lord.

By his great authority,
Which often hath no lesse preuail’d, then so,
645 On your command.

Leo.

I know’t too well.
Giue me the Boy, I am glad you did not nurse him:
Though he do’s beare some signes of me, yet you
Haue too much blood in him.

Her.

650What is this? Sport?

Leo.

Beare the Boy hence, he shall not come about her,
Away with him, and let her sport her selfe
With that shee’s big‑with, for 'tis Polixenes
Ha’s made thee swell thus.

Her.

655 But Il’d say he had not;
And Ile be sworne you would beleeue my saying,
How e’re you leane to th’Nay‑ward.

Leo.

You (my Lords)
Looke on her, marke her well: be but about
660 To say she is a goodly Lady, and
The iustice of your hearts will thereto adde
'Tis pitty shee’s not honest: Honorable;
Prayse her but for this her without‑dore‑Forme,
(Which on my faith deserues high speech) and straight
665 The Shrug, the Hum, or Ha, (these Petty‑brands
That Calumnie doth vse; Oh, I am out,
That Mercy do’s, for Calumnie will seare
Vertue it selfe) these Shrugs, these Hum’s, and Ha’s,
When you haue said shee’s goodly, come betweene,
670 Ere you can say shee’s honest: But be’t knowne
(From him that ha’s most cause to grieue it should be)
Shee’s an Adultresse.

Her.

Should a Villaine say so,
(The most replenish’d Villaine in the World)
675 He were as much more Villaine: you (my Lord)
Doe but mistake.

Leo.

You haue mistooke (my Lady)
Polixenes for Leontes: O thou Thing,
(Which Ile not call a Creature of thy place,
680 Least Barbarisme (making me the precedent)
Should a like Language vse to all degrees,
And mannerly distinguishment leaue out,
Betwixt the Prince and Begger:) I haue said
Shee’s an Adultresse, I haue said with whom:
685 More; shee’s a Traytor, and Camillo is
A Federarie with her, and one that knowes
What she should shame to know her selfe,
But with her most vild Principall: that shee’s
A Bed‑swaruer, euen as bad as those
690 That Vulgars giue bold’st Titles; I, and priuy
To this their late escape.

Her.

No (by my life)
Priuy to none of this: how will this grieue you,
When you shall come to clearer knowledge, that
695 You thus haue publish’d me? Gentle my Lord,
You scarce can right me throughly, then, to say
You did mistake.

Leo.

No: if I mistake
In those Foundations which I build vpon,
700 The Centre is not bigge enough to beare
A Schoole‑Boyes Top. Away with her, to Prison:
He who shall speake for her, is a farre‑off guiltie,
But that he speakes.

Her.

There’s some ill Planet raignes:
705 I must be patient, till the Heauens looke
With an aspect more fauorable. Good my Lords,
I am not prone to weeping (as our Sex
Commonly are) the want of which vaine dew
Perchance shall dry your pitties: but I haue
710 That honorable Griefe lodg’d here, which burnes
Worse then Teares drowne: 'beseech you all (my Lords)
With thoughts so qualified, as your Charities
Shall best instruct you, measure me; and so
The Kings will be perform’d.

Leo.

715Shall I be heard?

Her.

Who is’t that goes with me? 'beseech your Highnes
My Women may be with me, for you see
My plight requires it. Doe not weepe (good Fooles)
There is no cause: When you shall know your Mistris
720 Ha’s deseru’d Prison, then abound in Teares,
As I come out; this Action I now goe on,
Is for my better grace. Adieu (my Lord)
I neuer wish’d to see you sorry, now
I trust I shall: my Women come, you haue leaue.

Leo.

725Goe, doe our bidding: hence.

Lord.

726Beseech your Highnesse call the Queene againe.

Antig.

Be certaine what you do (Sir) least your Iustice
Proue violence, in the which three great ones suffer,
Your Selfe, your Queene, your Sonne.

Lord.

730 For her (my Lord)
I dare my life lay downe, and will do’t (Sir)
Please you t’accept it, that the Queene is spotlesse
I’th’eyes of Heauen, and to you (I meane
In this, which you accuse her.)

Antig.

735 If it proue
Shee’s otherwise, Ile keepe my Stables where
I lodge my Wife, Ile goe in couples with her:
Then when I feele, and see her, no farther trust her:
For euery ynch of Woman in the World,
740 I, euery dram of Womans flesh is false,
If she be.

Leo.

742Hold your peaces.

Lord.

743Good my Lord.

Antig.

It is for you we speake, not for our selues:
745 You are abus’d, and by some putter on,
That will be damn’d for’t: would I knew the Villaine,
I would [p. 283] The Winters Tale.
I would Land‑damne him: be she honor‑flaw’d,
I haue three daughters: the eldest is eleuen;
The second, and the third, nine: and some fiue:
750 If this proue true, they’l pay for’t. By mine Honor
Ile gell’d em all: fourteene they shall not see
To bring false generations: they are co‑heyres,
And I had rather glib my selfe, then they
Should not produce faire issue.

Leo.

755 Cease, no more:
You smell this businesse with a sence as cold
As is a dead‑mans nose: but I do see’t, and feel’t,
As you feele doing thus: and see withall
The Instruments that feele.

Antig.

760 If it be so,
We neede no graue to burie honesty,
There’s not a graine of it, the face to sweeten
Of the whole dungy‑earth.

Leo.

764What? lacke I credit?

Lord.

765 I had rather you did lacke then I (my Lord)
Vpon this ground: and more it would content me
To haue her Honor true, then your suspition
Be blam’d for’t how you might.

Leo.

Why what neede we
770 Commune with you of this? but rather follow
Our forcefull instigation? Our prerogatiue
Cals not your Counsailes, but our naturall goodnesse
Imparts this: which, if you, or stupified,
Or seeming so, in skill, cannot, or will not
775 Rellish a truth, like vs: informe your selues,
We neede no more of your aduice: the matter,
The losse, the gaine, the ord’ring on’t,
Is all properly ours

Antig.

And I wish (my Liege)
780 You had onely in your silent iudgement tride it,
Without more ouerture.

Leo.

How could that be?
Either thou art most ignorant by age,
Or thou wer’t borne a foole: Camillo’s flight
785 Added to their Familiarity
(Which was as grosse, as euer touch’d coniecture,
That lack’d sight onely, nought for approbation
But onely seeing, all other circumstances
Made vp to’th deed) doth push‑on this proceeding.
790 Yet, for a greater confirmation
(For in an Acte of this importance, 'twere
Most pitteous to be wilde) I hane dispatch’d in post,
To sacred Delphos, to Appollo’s Temple,
Cleomines and Dion, whom you know
795 Of stuff’d‑sufficiency: Now, from the Oracle
They will bring all, whose spirituall counsaile had
Shall stop, or spurre me. Haue I done well?

Lord.

798Well done (my Lord.)

Leo.

Though I am satisfide, and neede no more
800 Then what I know, yet shall the Oracle
Giue rest to th’mindes of others; such as he
Whose ignorant credulitie, will not
Come vp to th’truth. So haue we thought it good
From our free person, she should be confinde,
805 Least that the treachery of the two, fled hence,
Be left her to performe. Come follow vs,
We are to speake in publique: for this businesse
Will raise vs all.

Antig.

To laughter, as I take it,
810 If the good truth, were knowne.
Exeunt

Scena Secunda.

[Act 2, Scene 2]

Enter Paulina, a Gentleman, Gaoler, Emilia.

Paul.

The Keeper of the prison, call to him:
Let him haue knowledge who I am. Good Lady,
No Court in Europe is too good for thee,
What dost thou then in prison? Now good Sir,
815 You know me, do you not?

Gao.

For a worthy Lady,
And one, who much I honour.

Pau.

Pray you then,
Conduct me to the Queene.

Gao.

820 I may not (Madam)
To the contrary I haue expresse commandment.

Pau.

Here’s a‑do, to locke vp honesty & honour from
Th’accesse of gentle visitors. Is’t lawfull pray you
To see her Women? Any of them? Emilia?

Gao.

825 So please you (Madam)
To put a‑part these your attendants, I
Shall bring Emilia forth.

Pau.

I pray now call her:
With‑draw your selues.

Gao.

830And Madam, [l. 831] I must be present at your Conference.

Pau.

Well: be’t so: prethee.
Heere’s such a‑doe, to make no staine, a staine,
As passes colouring. Deare Gentlewoman,
835 How fares our gracious Lady?

Emil.

As well as one so great, and so forlorne
May hold together: On her frights, and greefes
(Which neuer tender Lady hath borne greater)
She is, something before her time, deliuer’d.

Pau.

840A boy?

Emil.

A daughter, and a goodly babe,
Lusty, and like to liue: the Queene receiues
Much comfort in’t: Sayes, my poore prisoner,
I am innocent as you,

Pau.

845 I dare be sworne:
These dangerous, vnsafe Lunes i’th’King, beshrew them:
He must be told on’t, and he shall: the office
Becomes a woman best. Ile take’t vpon me,
If I proue hony‑mouth’d, let my tongue blister.
850 And neuer to my red‑look’d Anger bee
The Trumpet any more: pray you (Emilia)
Commend my best obedience to the Queene,
If she dares trust me with her little babe,
I’le shew’t the King, and vndertake to bee
855 Her Aduocate to th’lowd’st. We do not know
How he may soften at the sight o’th’Childe:
The silence often of pure innocence
Perswades, when speaking failes.

Emil.

Most worthy Madam,
860 Your honor, and your goodnesse is so euident,
That your free vndertaking cannot misse
A thriuing yssue: there is no Lady liuing
So meete for this great errand; please your Ladiship
To visit the next roome, Ile presently
865 Acquaint the Queene of your most noble offer,
Who, but to day hammered of this designe,
But durst not tempt a minister of honour
Least she should be deny’d.
Pau [p. 284] The Winters Tale.

Paul.

Tell her (Emilia)
870 Ile vse that tongue I haue: If wit flow from’t
As boldnesse from my bosome, le’t not be doubted
I shall do good,

Emil.

Now be you blest for it.
Ile to the Queene: please you come something neerer.

Gao.

875 Madam, if’t please the Queene to send the babe,
I know not what I shall incurre, to passe it,
Hauing no warrant.

Pau.

You neede not feare it (sir)
This Childe was prisoner to the wombe, and is
880 By Law and processe of great Nature, thence
Free’d, and enfranchis’d, not a partie to
The anger of the King, nor guilty of
(If any be) the trespasse of the Queene.

Gao.

884I do beleeue it.

Paul.

885Do not you feare: vpon mine honor, I [l. 886] Will stand betwixt you, and danger.

Exeunt

Scæna Tertia.

Enter Leontes, Seruants, Paulina, Antigonus, and Lords.

Leo.

Nor night, nor day, no rest: It is but weaknesse
To beare the matter thus: meere weaknesse, if
The cause were not in being: part o’th cause,
890 She, th’Adultresse: for the harlot‑King
Is quite beyond mine Arme, out of the blanke
And leuell of my braine: plot‑proofe: but shee,
I can hooke to me: say that she were gone,
Giuen to the fire, a moity of my rest
895 Might come to me againe. Whose there?

Ser.

896My Lord.

Leo.

897How do’s the boy?

Ser.

He tooke good rest to night: 'tis hop’d
His sicknesse is discharg’d.

Leo.

900 To see his Noblenesse,
Conceyuing the dishonour of his Mother.
He straight declin’d, droop’d, tooke it deeply,
Fasten’d, and fix’d the shame on’t in himselfe:
Threw‑off his Spirit, his Appetite, his Sleepe,
905 And down‑right languish’d. Leaue me solely: goe,
See how he fares: Fie, fie, no thought of him,
The very thought of my Reuenges that way
Recoyle vpon me: in himselfe too mightie,
And in his parties, his Alliance; Let him be,
910 Vntill a time may serue. For present vengeance
Take it on her: Camillo, and Polixenes
Laugh at me: make their pastime at my sorrow:
They should not laugh, if I could reach them, nor
Shall she, within my powre.
Enter Paulina.

Lord.

915You must not enter.

Paul.

Nay rather (good my Lords) be second to me:
Feare you his tyrannous passion more (alas)
Then the Queenes life? A gracious innocent soule,
More free, then he is iealous.

Antig.

920That’s enough.

Ser.

921Madam; he hath not slept to night, commanded [l. 922] None should come at him.

Pau.

Not so hot (good Sir)
I come to bring him sleepe. 'Tis such as you
925 That creepe like shadowes by him, and do sighe
At each his needlesse heauings: such as you
Nourish the cause of his awaking. I
Do come with words, as medicinall, as true;
(Honest, as either;) to purge him of that humor,
930 That presses him from sleepe.

Leo.

931Who noyse there, hoe?

Pau.

No noyse (my Lord) but needfull conference,
About some Gossips for your Highnesse.

Leo.

How?
935 Away with that audacious Lady. Antigonus,
I charg’d thee that she should not come about me,
I knew she would.

Ant.

I told her so (my Lord)
On your displeasures perill, and on mine,
940 She should not visit you.

Leo.

941What? canst not rule her?

Paul.

From all dishonestie he can: in this
(Vnlesse he take the course that you haue done)
Commit me, for committing honor, trust it,
945 He shall not rule me:

Ant.

La‑you now, you heare,
When she will take the raine, I let her run,
But shee’l not stumble.

Paul.

Good my Liege, I come:
950 And I beseech you heare me, who professes
My selfe your loyall Seruant, your Physitian,
Your most obedient Counsailor: yet that dares
Lesse appeare so, in comforting your Euilles,
Then such as most seeme yours. I say, I come
955 From your good Queene.

Leo.

956Good Queene?

Paul.

Good Queene (my Lord) good Queene,
I say good Queene,
And would by combate, make her good so, were I
960 A man, the worst about you.

Leo.

961Force her hence.

Pau.

Let him that makes but trifles of his eyes
First hand me: on mine owne accord, Ile off,
B[.]t first, Ile do my errand. The good Queene
965 (For she is good) hath brought you forth a daughter,
Heere 'tis. Commends it to your blessing.

Leo.

Out:
A mankinde Witch? Hence with her, out o’dore:
A most intelligencing bawd.

Paul.

970 Not so:
I am as ignorant in that, as you,
In so entit’ling me: and no lesse honest
Then you are mad: which is enough, Ile warrant
(As this world goes) to passe for honest:

Leo.

975 Traitors;
Will you not push her out? Giue her the Bastard,
Thou dotard, thou art woman‑tyr’d: vnroosted
By thy dame Partlet heere. Take vp the Bastard,
Take’t vp, I say: giue’t to thy Croane.

Paul.

980 For euer
Vnvenerable be thy hands, if thou
Tak’st vp the Princesse, by that forced basenesse
Which he ha’s put vpon’t.

Leo.

984He dreads his Wife.

Paul.

985 So I would you did: then 'twere past all doubt
Youl’d call your children, yours.

Leo.

987A nest of Traitors.

Ant.

988I am none, by this good light.

Pau.

Nor I: nor any
990 But one that’s heere: and that’s himselfe: for he,
The [p. 285] The Winters Tale.
The sacred Honor of himselfe, his Queenes,
His hopefull Sonnes, his Babes, betrayes to Slander,
Whose sting is sharper then the Swords; and will not
(For as the case now stands, it is a Curse
995 He cannot be compell’d too’t) once remoue
The Root of his Opinion, which is rotten,
As euer Oake, or Stone was sound.

Leo.

A Callat
Of boundlesse tongue, who late hath beat her Husband,
1000 And now bayts me: This Brat is none of mine,
It is the Issue of Polixenes.
Hence with it, and together with the Dam,
Commit them to the fire.

Paul.

It is yours:
1005 And might we lay th’old Prouerb to your charge,
So like you, 'tis the worse. Behold (my Lords)
Although the Print be little, the whole Matter
And Coppy of the Father: (Eye, Nose, Lippe,
The trick of’s Frowne, his Fore‑head, nay, the Valley,
1010 The pretty dimples of his Chin, and Cheeke; his Smiles:
The very Mold, and frame of Hand, Nayle, Finger.)
And thou good Goddesse Nature, which hast made it
So like to him that got it, if thou hast
The ordering of the Mind too, 'mongst all Colours
1015 No Yellow in’t, least she suspect, as he do’s,
Her Children, not her Husbands.

Leo.

A grosse Hagge:
And Lozell, thou art worthy to be hang’d,
That wilt not stay her Tongue.

Antig.

1020 Hang all the Husbands
That cannot doe that Feat, you’le leaue your selfe
Hardly one Subiect.

Leo.

1023Once more take her hence.

Paul.

A most vnworthy, and vnnaturall Lord
1025 Can doe no more.

Leo.

1026Ile ha’ thee burnt.

Paul.

I care not:
It is an Heretique that makes the fire,
Not she which burnes in’t. Ile not call you Tyrant:
1030 But this most cruell vsage of your Queene
(Not able to produce more accusation
Then your owne weake‑hindg’d Fancy) somthing sauors
Of Tyrannie, and will ignoble make you,
Yea, scandalous to the World.

Leo.

1035 On your Allegeance,
Out of the Chamber with her. Were I a Tyrant,
Where were her life? she durst not call me so,
If she did know me one. Away with her.

Paul.

I pray you doe not push me, Ile be gone.
1040 Looke to your Babe (my Lord) 'tis yours: Ioue send her
A better guiding Spirit. What needs these hands?
You that are thus so tender o’re his Follyes,
Will neuer doe him good, not one of you.
So, so: Farewell, we are gone.
Exit.

Leo.

1045 Thou (Traytor) hast set on thy Wife to this.
My Child? away with’t? euen thou, that hast
A heart so tender o’re it, take it hence,
And see it instantly consum’d with fire.
Euen thou, and none but thou. Take it vp straight:
1050 Within this houre bring me word 'tis done,
(And by good testimonie) or Ile seize thy life,
With what thou else call’st thine: if thou refuse,
And wilt encounter with my Wrath, say so;
The Bastard‑braynes with these my proper hands
1055 Shall I dash out. Goe, take it to the fire,
For thou sett’st on thy Wife.

Antig.

I did not, Sir:
These Lords, my Noble Fellowes, if they please,
Can cleare me in’t.

Lords.

1060 We can: my Royall Liege,
He is not guiltie of her comming hither.

Leo.

1062You’re lyers all.

Lord.

Beseech your Highnesse, giue vs better credit:
We haue alwayes truly seru’d you, and beseech’
1065 So to esteeme of vs: and on our knees we begge,
(As recompence of our deare seruices
Past, and to come) that you doe change this purpose,
Which being so horrible, so bloody, must
Lead on to some foule Issue. We all kneele.

Leo.

1070 I am a Feather for each Wind that blows:
Shall I liue on, to see this Bastard kneele,
And call me Father? better burne it now,
Then curse it then. But be it: let it liue.
It shall not neyther. You Sir, come you hither:
1075 You that haue beene so tenderly officious
With Lady Margerie, your Mid‑wife there,
To saue this Bastards life; for 'tis a Bastard,
So sure as this Beard’s gray. What will you aduenture,
To saue this Brats life?

Antig.

1080 Any thing (my Lord)
That my abilitie may vndergoe,
And Noblenesse impose: at least thus much;
Ile pawne the little blood which I haue left,
To saue the Innocent: any thing possible.

Leo.

1085 It shall be possible: Sweare by this Sword
Thou wilt performe my bidding.

Antig.

1087I will (my Lord.)

Leo.

Marke, and performe it: seest thou? for the faile
Of any point in’t, shall not onely be
1090 Death to thy selfe, but to thy lewd‑tongu’d Wife,
(Whom for this time we pardon) We enioyne thee,
As thou art Liege‑man to vs, that thou carry
This female Bastard hence, and that thou beare it
To some remote and desart place, quite out
1095 Of our Dominions; and that there thou leaue it
(Without more mercy) to it owne protection,
And fauour of the Climate: as by strange fortune
It came to vs, I doe in Iustice charge thee,
On thy Soules perill, and thy Bodyes torture,
1100 That thou commend it strangely to some place,
Where Chance may nurse, or end it: take it vp.

Antig.

I sweare to doe this: though a present death
Had beene more mercifull. Come on (poore Babe)
Some powerfull Spirit instruct the Kytes and Rauens
1105 To be thy Nurs[.]s. Wolues and Beares, they say,
(Casting their sauagenesse aside) haue done
Like offices of Pitty. Sir, be prosperous
In more then this deed do’s require; and Blessing
Against this Crueltie, fight on thy side
1110 (Poore Thing, condemn’d to losse.)
Exit.

Leo.

No: Ile not reare
Anothers Issue.
Enter a Seruant.

Seru.

Please’ your Highnesse, Posts
From those you sent to th’Oracle, are come
1115 An houre since: Cleomines and Dion,
Being well arriu’d from Delphos, are both landed,
Hasting to th’Court.

Lord.

So please you (Sir) their speed
Hath beene beyond accompt.

Leo.

1120 Twentie three days
They haue beene absent: 'tis good speed: fore‑tells
The great Apollo suddenly will haue
The [p. 286] The Winters Tale.
The truth of this appeare: Prepare you Lords,
Summon a Session, that we may arraigne
1125 Our most disloyall Lady: for as she hath
Been publikely accus’d, so shall she haue
A iust and open Triall. While she liues,
My heart will be a burthen to me. Leaue me,
And thinke vpon my bidding.
Exeunt.

Actus Tertius. Scena Prima.

[Act 3, Scene 1]

Enter Cleomines and Dion.

Cleo.

1130 The Clymat’s delicate, the Ayre most sweet,
Fertile the Isle, the Temple much surpassing
The common prayse it beares.

Dion.

I shall report,
For most it caught me, the Celestiall Habits,
1135 (Me thinkes I so should terme them) and the reuerence
Of the graue Wearers. O, the Sacrifice,
How ceremonious, solemne, and vn‑earthly
It was i’th’Offring?

Cleo.

But of all, the burst
1140 And the eare‑deaff’ning Voyce o’th’Oracle,
Kin to Ioues Thunder, so surpriz’d my Sence,
That I was nothing.

Dio.

If th’euent o’th’Iourney
Proue as successefull to the Queene (O be’t so)
1145 As it hath beene to vs, rare, pleasant, speedie,
The time is worth the vse on’t.

Cleo.

Great Apollo
Turne all to th’best: these Proclamations,
So forcing faults vpon Hermione,
1150 I little like.

Dio.

The violent carriage of it
Will cleare, or end the Businesse, when the Oracle
(Thus by Apollo’s great Diuine seal’d vp)
Shall the Contents discouer: something rare
1155 Euen then will rush to knowledge. Goe: fresh Horses,
And gracious be the issue.
Exeunt.

Scœna Secunda.

[Act 3, Scene 2]

Enter Leontes, Lords, Officers: Hermione (as to her
Triall) Ladies: Cleomines, Dion.

Leo.

This Sessions (to our great griefe we pronounce)
Euen pushes 'gainst our heart. The partie try’d,
The Daughter of a King, our Wife, and one
1160 Of vs too much belou’d. Let vs be clear’d
Of being tyrannous, since we so openly
Proceed in Iustice, which shall haue due course,
Euen to the Guilt, or the Purgation:
Produce the Prisoner.

Officer.

1165 It is his Highnesse pleasure, that the Queene
Appeare in person, here in Court.
Silence.

Leo.

1167Reade the Indictment.

Officer.

1168Hermione, Queene to the worthy Leontes, King [l. 1169] of Sicilia, thou art here accused and arraigned of High Trea­ [l. 1170] son, in committing Adultery with Polixenes King of Bohemia, [l. 1171] and conspiring with Camillo to take away the Life of our Soue­ [l. 1172] raigne Lord the King, thy Royall Husband: the pretence whereof [l. 1173] being by circumstances partly layd open, thou (Hermione) con­ [l. 1174] trary to the Faith and Allegeance of a true Subiect, didst coun­ [l. 1175] saile and ayde them, for their better safetie, to flye away by [l. 1176] Night.

Her.

Since what I am to say, must be but that
Which contradicts my Accusation, and
The testimonie on my part, no other
1180 But what comes from my selfe, it shall scarce boot me
To say, Not guiltie: mine Integritie
Being counted Falsehood, shall (as I expresse it)
Be so receiu’d. But thus, if Powres Diuine
Behold our humane Actions (as they doe)
1185 I doubt not then, but Innocence shall make
False Accusation blush, and Tyrannie
Tremble at Patience. You (my Lord) best know
(Whom least will seeme to doe so) my past life
Hath beene as continent, as chaste, as true,
1190 As I am now vnhappy; which is more
Then Historie can patterne, though deuis’d,
And play’d, to take Spectators. For behold me,
A Fellow of the Royall Bed, which owe
A Moitie of the Throne: a great Kings Daughter,
1195 The Mother to a hopefull Prince, here standing
To prate and talke for Life, and Honor, fore
Who please to come, and heare. For Life, I prize it
As I weigh Griefe (which I would spare:) For Honor,
'Tis a deriuatiue from me to mine,
1200 And onely that I stand for. I appeale
To your owne Conscience (Sir) before Polixenes
Came to your Court, how I was in your grace,
How merited to be so: Since he came,
With what encounter so vncurrant, I
1205 Haue strayn’d t’appeare thus; if one iot beyond
The bound of Honor, or in act, or will
That way enclining, hardned be the hearts
Of all that heare me, and my neer’st of Kin
Cry fie vpon my Graue.

Leo.

1210 I ne’re heard yet,
That any of these bolder Vices wanted
Lesse Impudence to gaine‑say what they did,
Then to performe it first.

Her.

That’s true enough,
1215 Though 'tis a saying (Sir) not due to me.

Leo.

1216You will not owne it.

Her.

More then Mistresse of,
Which comes to me in name of Fault, I must not
At all acknowledge. For Polixenes
1220 (With whom I am accus’d) I doe confesse
I lou’d him, as in Honor he requir’d:
With such a kind of Loue, as might become
A Lady like me; with a Loue, euen such,
So, and no other, as your selfe commanded:
1225 Which, not to haue done, I thinke had been in me
Both Disobedience, and Ingratitude
To you, and toward your Friend, whose Loue had spoke,
Euen since it could speake, from an Infant, freely,
That it was yours. Now for Conspiracie,
1230 I know not how it tastes, though it be dish’d
For me to try how: All I know of it,
Is, that Camillo was an honest man;
And why he left your Court, the Gods themselues
(Wotting no more then I) are ignorant.

Leo.

1235 You knew of his departure, as you know
What you haue vnderta’ne to doe in’s absence.
Her. Sir [p. 287] The Winters Tale.

Her.

1237Sir,

You speake a Language that I vnderstand not:
My Life stands in the leuell of your Dreames,
1240 Which Ile lay downe.

Leo.

Your Actions are my Dreames.
You had a Bastard by Polixenes,
And I but dream’d it: As you were past all shame,
(Those of your Fact are so) so past all truth;
1245 Which to deny, concernes more then auailes: for as
Thy Brat hath been cast out, like to it selfe,
No Father owning it (which is indeed
More criminall in thee, then it) so thou
Shalt feele our Iustice; in whose easiest passage,
1250 Looke for no lesse then death.

Her.

Sir, spare your Threats:
The Bugge which you would fright me with, I seeke:
To me can Life be no commoditie;
The crowne and comfort of my Life (your Fauor)
1255 I doe giue lost, for I doe feele it gone,
But know not how it went. My second Ioy,
And first Fruits of my body, from his presence
I am bar’d, like one infectious. My third comfort
(Star’d most vnluckily) is from my breast
1260 (The innocent milke in it most innocent mouth)
Hal’d out to murther. My selfe on euery Post
Proclaym’d a Strumpet: With immodest hatred
The Child‑bed priuiledge deny’d, which longs
To Women of all fashion. Lastly, hurried
1265 Here, to this place, i’th’open ayre, before
I haue got strength of limit. Now (my Liege)
Tell me what blessings I haue here aliue,
That I should feare to die? Therefore proceed:
But yet heare this: mistake me not: no Life,
1270 (I prize it not a straw) but for mine Honor,
Which I would free: if I shall be condemn’d
Vpon surmizes (all proofes sleeping else,
But what your Iealousies awake) I tell you
'Tis Rigor, and not Law. Your Honors all,
1275 I doe referre me to the Oracle:
Apollo be my Iudge.

Lord.

This your request
Is altogether iust: therefore bring forth
(And in Apollo’s Name) his Oracle.

Her.

1280 The Emperor of Russia was my Father.
Oh that he were aliue, and here beholding
His Daughters Tryall: that he did but see
The flatnesse of my miserie; yet with eyes
Of Pitty, not Reuenge.

Officer.

1285 You here shal sweare vpon this Sword of Iustice,
That you (Cleomines and Dion) haue
Been both at Delphos, and from thence haue brought
This seal’d‑vp Oracle, by the Hand deliuer’d
Of great Apollo’s Priest; and that since then,
1290 You haue not dar’d to breake the holy Seale,
Nor read the Secrets in’t.

Cleo.

1292Dio. All this we sweare.

Leo.

1293Breake vp the Seales, and read.

Officer.

1294Hermione is chast, Polixenes blamelesse, Camillo [l. 1295] a true Subiect, Leontes a iealous Tyrant, his innocent Babe [l. 1296] truly begotten, and the King shall liue without an Heire, if that [l. 1297] which is lost, be not found.

Lords.

1298Now blessed be the great Apollo.

Her.

1299Praysed.

Leo.

1300Hast thou read truth?

Offic.

1301I (my Lord) euen so as it is here set downe.

Leo.

There is no truth at all i’th’Oracle:
The Sessions shall proceed: this is meere falsehood.

Ser.

1304My Lord the King: the King?

Leo.

1305What is the businesse?

Ser.

O Sir, I shall be hated to report it.
The Prince your Sonne, with meere conceit, and feare
Of the Queenes speed, is gone.

Leo.

1309How? gone?

Ser.

1310Is dead.

Leo.

Apollo’s angry, and the Heauens themselues,
Doe strike at my Iniustice. How now there?

Paul.

This newes is mortall to the Queene: Look downe
And see what Death is doing.

Leo.

1315 Take her hence:
Her heart is but o’re‑charg’d: she will recouer.
I haue too much beleeu’d mine owne suspition:
'Beseech you tenderly apply to her
Some remedies for life. Apollo pardon
1320 My great prophanenesse 'gainst thine Oracle.
Ile reconcile me to Polixenes,
New woe my Queene, recall the good Camillo
(Whom I proclaime a man of Truth, of Mercy:)
For being transported by my Iealousies
1325 To bloody thoughts, and to reuenge, I chose
Camillo for the minister, to poison
My friend Polixenes: which had been done,
But that the good mind of Camillo tardied
My swift command: though I with Death, and with
1330 Reward, did threaten and encourage him,
Not doing it, and being done: he (most humane,
And fill’d with Honor) to my Kingly Guest
Vnclasp’d my practise, quit his fortunes here
(Which you knew great) and to the hazard
1335 Of all Incertainties, himselfe commended,
No richer then his Honor: How he glisters
Through my Rust? and how his Pietie
Do’s my deeds make the blacker?

Paul.

Woe the while:
1340 O cut my Lace, least my heart (cracking it)
Breake too.

Lord.

1342What fit is this? good Lady?

Paul.

What studied torments (Tyrant) hast for me?
What Wheeles? Racks? Fires? What flaying? boyling?
1345 In Leads, or Oyles? What old, or newer Torture
Must I receiue? whose euery word deserues
To taste of thy most worst. Thy Tyranny
(Together working with thy Iealousies,
Fancies too weake for Boyes, too greene and idle
1350 For Girles of Nine) O thinke what they haue done,
And then run mad indeed: starke‑mad: for all
Thy by‑gone fooleries were but spices of it.
That thou betrayed’st Polixenes, 'twas nothing,
(That did but shew thee, of a Foole, inconstant,
1355 And damnable ingratefull:) Nor was’t much.
Thou would’st haue poyson’d good Camillo’s Honor,
To haue him kill a King: poore Trespasses,
More monstrous standing by: whereof I reckon
The casting forth to Crowes, thy Baby‑daughter,
1360 To be or none, or little; though a Deuill
Would haue shed water out of fire, ere don’t;
Nor is’t directly layd to thee, the death
Of the young Prince, whose honorable thoughts
(Thoughts high for one so tender) cleft the heart
1365 That could conceiue a grosse and foolish Sire
Blemish’d his gracious Dam: this is not, no,
Layd to thy answere: but the last: O Lords,
When I haue said, cry woe: the Queene, the Queene,
The [p. 288] The Winters Tale.
The sweet’st, deer’st creature’s dead: & vengeance for’t
1370 Not drop’d downe yet.

Lord.

1371The higher powres forbid.

Pau.

I say she’s dead: Ile swear’t. If word, nor oath
Preuaile not, go and see: if you can bring
Tincture, or lustre in her lip, her eye
1375 Heate outwardly, or breath within, Ile serue you
As I would do the Gods. But, O thou Tyrant,
Do not repent these things, for they are heauier
Then all thy woes can stirre: therefore betake thee
To nothing but dispaire. A thousand knees,
1380 Ten thousand yeares together, naked, fasting,
Vpon a barren Mountaine, and still Winter
In storme perpetuall, could not moue the Gods
To looke that way thou wer’t.

Leo.

Go on, go on:
1385 Thou canst not speake too much, I haue deseru’d
All tongues to talke their bittrest.

Lord.

Say no more;
How ere the businesse goes, you haue made fault
I’th boldnesse of your speech.

Pau.

1390 I am sorry for’t;
All faults I make, when I shall come to know them,
I do repent: Alas, I haue shew’d too much
The rashnesse of a woman: he is toucht
To th’Noble heart. What’s gone, and what’s past helpe
1395 Should be past greefe: Do not receiue affliction
At my petition; I beseech you, rather
Let me be punish’d, that haue minded you
Of what you should forget. Now (good my Liege)
Sir, Royall Sir, forgiue a foolish woman:
1400 The loue I bore your Queene (Lo, foole againe)
Ile speake of her no more, nor of your Children:
Ile not remember you of my owne Lord,
(Who is lost too:) take your patience to you,
And Ile say nothing.

Leo.

1405 Thou didst speake but well,
When most the truth: which I receyue much better,
Then to be pittied of thee. Prethee bring me
To the dead bodies of my Queene, and Sonne,
One graue shall be for both: Vpon them shall
1410 The causes of their death appeare (vnto
Our shame perpetuall) once a day, Ile visit
The Chappell where they lye, and teares shed there
Shall be my recreation. So long as Nature
Will beare vp with this exercise, so long
1415 I dayly vow to vse it. Come, and leade me
To these sorrowes.
Exeunt

Scæna Tertia.

[Act 3, Scene 3]

Enter Antigonus, a Marriner, Babe, Sheepe­
heard, and Clowne.

Ant.

Thou art perfect then, our ship hath toucht vpon,
The Desarts of Bohemia.

Mar.

I (my Lord) and feare
1420 We haue Landed in ill time: the skies looke grimly,
And threaten present blusters. In my conscience
The heauens with that we haue in hand, are angry,
And frowne vpon’s.

Ant.

Their sacred wil’s be done: go get a-boord,
1425 Looke to thy barke, Ile not be long before
I call vpon thee.

Mar.

Make your best haste, and go not
Too‑farre i’th Land: 'tis like to be lowd weather,
Besides this place is famous for the Creatures
1430 Of prey, that keepe vpon’t.

Antig.

Go thou away,
Ile follow instantly.

Mar.

I am glad at heart
To be so ridde o’th businesse.
Exit.

Ant.

1435 Come, poore babe;
I haue heard (but not beleeu’d) the Spirits o’th’dead
May walke againe: if such thing be, thy Mother
Appear’d to me last night: for ne’re was dreame
So like a waking. To me comes a creature,
1440 Sometimes her head on one side, some another,
I neuer saw a vessell of like sorrow
So fill’d, and so becomming: in pure white Robes
Like very sanctity she did approach
My Cabine where I lay: thrice bow’d before me,
1445 And (gasping to begin some speech) her eyes
Became two spouts; the furie spent, anon
Did this breake from her. Good Antigonus,
Since Fate (against thy better disposition)
Hath made thy person for the Thrower‑out
1450 Of my poore babe, according to thine oath,
Places remote enough are in Bohemia,
There weepe, and leaue it crying: and for the babe
Is counted lost for euer, Perdita
I prethee call’t: For this vngentle businesse
1455 Put on thee, by my Lord, thou ne’re shalt see
Thy Wife Paulina more: and so, with shriekes
She melted into Ayre. Affrighted much,
I did in time collect my selfe, and thought
This was so, and no slumber: Dreames, are toyes,
1460 Yet for this once, yea superstitiously,
I will be squar’d by this. I do beleeue
Hermione hath suffer’d death, and that
Apollo would (this being indeede the issue
Of King Polixenes) it should heere be laide
1465 (Either for life, or death) vpon the earth
Of it’s right Father. Blossome, speed thee well,
There lye, and there thy charracter: there these,
Which may if Fortune please, both breed thee (pretty)
And still rest thine. The storme beginnes, poore wretch,
1470 That for thy mothers fault, art thus expos’d
To losse, and what may follow. Weepe I cannot,
But my heart bleedes: and most accurst am I
To be by oath enioyn’d to this. Farewell,
The day frownes more and more: thou’rt like to haue
1475 A lullabie too rough: I neuer saw
The heauens so dim, by day. A sauage clamor?
Well may I get a‑boord: This is the Chace,
I am gone foreuer.
Exit pursued by a Beare.

Shep.

1479I would there were no age betweene ten and [l. 1480] three and twenty, or that youth would sleep out the rest: [l. 1481] for there is nothing (in the betweene) but getting wen­ [l. 1482] ches with childe, wronging the Auncientry, stealing, [l. 1483] fighting, hearke you now: would any but these boylde­ [l. 1484] braines of nineteene, and two and twenty hunt this wea­ [l. 1485] ther? They haue scarr’d away two of my best Sheepe, [l. 1486] which I feare the Wolfe will sooner finde then the Mai­ [l. 1487] ster; if any where I haue them, 'tis by the sea‑side, brou­ [l. 1488] zing of Iuy. Good‑lucke (and’t be thy will) what haue [l. 1489] we heere? Mercy on’s, a Barne? A very pretty barne; A [l. 1490] boy, or a Childe I wonder? (A pretty one, a verie prettie [l. 1491] one) sure some Scape; Though I am not bookish, yet I can [p. 289] The Winters Tale. [l. 1492] can reade Waiting‑Gentlewoman in the scape: this has [l. 1493] beene some staire‑worke, some Trunke‑worke, some be­ [l. 1494] hinde‑doore worke: they were warmer that got this, [l. 1495] then the poore Thing is heere. Ile take it vp for pity, yet [l. 1496] Ile tarry till my sonne come: he hallow’d but euen now. [l. 1497] Whoa‑ho‑hoa.

Enter Clowne.

Clo.

1498Hilloa, loa.

Shep.

1499What? art so neere? If thou’lt see a thing to [l. 1500] talke on, when thou art dead and rotten, come hither: [l. 1501] what ayl’st thou, man?

Clo.

1502I haue seene two such sights, by Sea & by Land: [l. 1503] but I am not to say it is a Sea, for it is now the skie, be‑twixt [l. 1504] the Firmament and it, you cannot thrust a bodkins [l. 1505] point.

Shep.

1506Why boy, how is it?

Clo.

1507I would you did but see how it chafes, how it ra­ [l. 1508] ges, how it takes vp the shore, but that’s not to the point: [l. 1509] Oh, the most pitteous cry of the poore soules, sometimes [l. 1510] to see 'em, and not to see 'em: Now the Shippe boaring [l. 1511] the Moone with her maine Mast, and anon swallowed [l. 1512] with yest and froth, as you’ld thrust a Corke into a hogs‑head. [l. 1513] And then for the Land‑seruice, to see how the [l. 1514] Beare tore out his shoulder‑bone, how he cride to mee [l. 1515] for helpe, and said his name was Antigonus, a Nobleman: [l. 1516] But to make an end of the Ship, to see how the Sea flap­ [l. 1517] dragon’d it: but first, how the poore soules roared, and [l. 1518] the sea mock’d them: and how the poore Gentleman roa­ [l. 1519] red, and the Beare mock’d him, both roaring lowder [l. 1520] then the sea, or weather.

Shep.

1521Name of mercy, when was this boy?

Clo.

1522Now, now: I haue not wink’d since I saw these [l. 1523] sights: the men are not yet cold vnder water, nor the [l. 1524] Beare halfe din’d on the Gentleman: he’s at it now.

Shep.

1525Would I had bin by, to haue help’d the olde [l. 1526] man.

Clo.

1527I would you had beene by the ship side, to haue [l. 1528] help’d her; there your charity would haue lack’d footing.

Shep.

1529Heauy matters, heauy matters: but looke thee [l. 1530] heere boy. Now blesse thy selfe: thou met’st with things [l. 1531] dying, I with things new borne. Here’s a sight for thee: [l. 1532] Looke thee, a bearing‑cloath for a Squires childe: looke [l. 1533] thee heere, take vp, take vp (Boy:) open’t: so, let’s see, it [l. 1534] was told me I should be rich by the Fairies. This is some [l. 1535] Changeling: open’t: what’s within, boy?

Clo.

1536You’re a mad olde man: If the sinnes of your [l. 1537] youth are forgiuen you, you’re well to liue. Golde, all [l. 1538] Go[.]d.

Shep.

1539This is Faiery Gold boy, and 'twill proue so: vp [l. 1540] with’t, keepe it close: home, home, the next way. We [l. 1541] are luckie (boy) and to bee so still requires nothing but [l. 1542] secrecie. Let my sheepe go: Come (good boy) the next [l. 1543] way home.

Clo.

1544Go you the next way with your Findings, Ile go [l. 1545] see if the Beare bee gone from the Gentleman, and how [l. 1546] much he hath eaten: they are neuer curst but when they [l. 1547] are hungry: if there be any of him left, Ile bury it.

Shep.

1548That’s a good deed: if thou mayest discerne by [l. 1549] that which is left of him, what he is, fetch me to th’sight [l. 1550] of him.

Clowne.

1551'Marry will I: and you shall helpe to put him [l. 1552] i’th’ground.

Shep.

1553'Tis a lucky day, boy, and wee’l do good deeds [l. 1554] on’t.

Exeunt

Actus Quartus. Scena Prima.

[Act 4, Scene 1]

Enter Time, the Chorus.

Time.

1555 I that please some, try all: both ioy and terror
Of good, and bad: that makes, and vnfolds error,
Now take vpon me (in the name of Time)
To vse my wings: Impute it not a crime
To me, or my swift passage, that I slide
1560 Ore sixteene yeeres, and leaue the growth vntride
Of that wide gap, since it is in my power
To orethrow Law, and in one selfe‑borne howre
To plant, and ore‑whelme Custome. Let me passe
The same I am, ere ancient’st Order was,
1565 Or what is now receiu’d. I witnesse to
The times that brought them in, so shall I do
To th’freshest things now reigning, and make stale
The glistering of this present, as my Tale
Now seemes to it: your patience this allowing,
1570 I turne my glasse, and giue my Scene such growing
As you had slept betweene: Leontes leauing
Th’effects of his fond iealousies, so greeuing
That he shuts vp himselfe. Imagine me
(Gentle Spectators) that I now may be
1575 In faire Bohemia, and remember well,
I mentioned a sonne o’th’Kings, which Florizell
I now name to you: and with speed so pace
To speake of Perdita, now growne in grace
Equall with wond’ring. What of her insues
1580 I list not prophesie: but let Times newes
Be knowne when 'tis brought forth. A shepherds daugh­
 (ter
And what to her adheres, which followes after,
Is th’argument of Time: of this allow,
If euer you haue spent time worse, ere now:
1585 If neuer, yet that Time himselfe doth say,
He wishes earnestly, you neuer may.
Exit.

Scena Secunda.

[Act 4, Scene 2]

Enter Polixenes, and Camillo.

Pol.

1587I pray thee (good Camillo) be no more importu­ [l. 1588] nate: 'tis a sicknesse denying thee any thing: a death to [l. 1589] grant this.

Cam.

1590It is fifteene yeeres since I saw my Countrey: [l. 1591] though I haue (for the most part) bin ayred abroad, I de­ [l. 1592] sire to lay my bones there. Besides, the penitent King [l. 1593] (my Master) hath sent for me, to whose feeling sorrowes [l. 1594] I might be some allay, or I oreweene to thinke so) which [l. 1595] is another spurre to my departure.

Pol.

1596As thou lou’st me (Camillo) wipe not out the rest [l. 1597] of thy seruices, by leauing me now: the neede I haue of [l. 1598] thee, thine owne goodnesse hath made: better not to [l. 1599] haue had thee, then thus to want thee, thou hauing made [l. 1600] me Businesses, (which none (without thee) can suffici­ [l. 1601] ently manage) must either stay to execute them thy selfe, [l. 1602] or take away with thee the very seruices thou hast done: [l. 1603] which if I haue not enough considered (as too much I [l. 1604] cannot) to bee more thankefull to thee, shall bee my stu­ [l. 1605] die, and my profite therein, the heaping friendshippes. [l. 1606] Of that fatall Countrey Sicillia, prethee speake no more, [l. 1607] whose very naming, punnishes me with the remembrance Bb of [p. 290] The Winters Tale. [l. 1608] of that penitent (as thou calst him) and reconciled King [l. 1609] my brother, whose losse of his most precious Queene & [l. 1610] Children, are euen now to be a‑fresh lamented. Say to [l. 1611] me, when saw’st thou the Prince Florizell my son? Kings [l. 1612] are no lesse vnhappy, their issue, not being gracious, then [l. 1613] they are in loosing them, when they haue approued their [l. 1614] Vertues.

Cam.

1615Sir, it is three dayes since I saw the Prince: what [l. 1616] his happier affayres may be, are to me vnknowne: but I [l. 1617] haue (missingly) noted, he is of late much retyred from [l. 1618] Court, and is lesse frequent to his Princely exercises then [l. 1619] formerly he hath appeared.

Pol.

1620I haue considered so much (Camillo) and with [l. 1621] some care, so farre, that I haue eyes vnder my seruice, [l. 1622] which looke vpon his remouednesse: from whom I haue [l. 1623] this Intelligence, that he is seldome from the house of a [l. 1624] most homely shepheard: a man (they say) that from very [l. 1625] nothing, and beyond the imagination of his neighbors, [l. 1626] is growne into an vnspeakable estate.

Cam.

1627I haue heard (sir) of such a man, who hath a [l. 1628] daughter of most rare note: the report of her is extended [l. 1629] more, then can be thought to begin from such a cottage

Pol.

1630That’s likewise part of my Intelligence: but (I [l. 1631] feare) the Angle that pluckes our sonne thither. Thou [l. 1632] shalt accompany vs to the place, where we will (not app­ [l. 1633] earing what we are) haue some question with the shep­ [l. 1634] heard; from whose simplicity, I thinke it not vneasie to [l. 1635] get the cause of my sonnes resort thether. 'Prethe be my [l. 1636] present partner in this busines, and lay aside the thoughts [l. 1637] of Sicillia.

Cam.

1638I willingly obey your command.

Pol.

1639My best Camillo, we must disguise our selues.

Exit

Scena Tertia.

[Act 4, Scene 3]

Enter Autolicus singing.
1640 When Daffadils begin to peere,
With heigh the Doxy ouer the dale,
Why then comes in the sweet o’the yeere,
For the red blood raigns in the winters pale.
The white sheete bleaching on the hedge,
1645 With hey the sweet birds, O how they sing:
Doth set my pugging tooth an edge,
For a quart of Ale is a dish for a King.
The Larke, that tirra Lyra chaunts,
With heigh, the Thrush and the Iay:
1650 Are Summer songs for me and my Aunts
While we lye tumbling in the hay.

1652I haue seru’d Prince Florizell, and in my time wore three [l. 1653] pile, but now I am out of seruice.

But shall I go mourne for that (my deere)
1655 the pale Moone shines by night:
And when I wander here, and there
I then do most go right.
If Tinkers may haue leaue to liue,
and beare the Sow‑skin Bowget,
1660 Then my account I well may giue,
and in the Stockes auouch‑it.

1662My Trafficke is sheetes: when the Kite builds, looke to [l. 1663] lesser Linnen. My Father nam’d me Autolicus, who be­ [l. 1664] ing (as I am) lytter’d vnder Mercurie, was likewise a [l. 1665] snapper‑vp of vnconsidered trifles: With Dye and drab, [l. 1666] I purchas’d this Caparison, and my Reuennew is the silly [l. 1667] Cheate. Gallowes, and Knocke, are too powerfull on [l. 1668] the Highway. Beating and hanging are terrors to mee: [l. 1669] For the life to come, I sleepe out the thought of it. A [l. 1670] prize, a prize.

Enter Clowne.

Clo.

1671Let me see, euery Leauen‑weather toddes, euery [l. 1672] tod yeeldes pound and odde shilling: fifteene hundred [l. 1673] shorne, what comes the wooll too?

Aut.

1674If the sprindge hold, the Cocke’s mine.

Clo.

1675I cannot do’t without Compters. Let mee see, [l. 1676] what am I to buy for our Sheepe‑shearing‑Feast? Three [l. 1677] pound of Sugar, fiue pound of Currence, Rice: What [l. 1678] will this sister of mine do with Rice? But my father hath [l. 1679] made her Mistris of the Feast, and she layes it on. Shee [l. 1680] hath made‑me four and twenty Nose‑gayes for the shea­ [l. 1681] rers (three‑man song‑men, all, and very good ones) but [l. 1682] they are most of them Meanes and Bases; but one Puri­ [l. 1683] tan amongst them, and he sings Psalmes to horne‑pipes. [l. 1684] I must haue Saffron to colour the Warden Pies, Mace: [l. 1685] Dates, none: that’s out of my note: Nutmegges, seuen; [l. 1686] a Race or two of Ginger, but that I may begge: Foure [l. 1687] pound of Prewyns, and as many of Reysons o’th Sun.

Aut.

1688Oh, that euer I was borne.

Clo.

1689I’th’name of me.

Aut.

1690Oh helpe me, helpe mee: plucke but off these [l. 1691] ragges: and then, death, death.

Clo.

1692Alacke poore soule, thou hast need of more rags [l. 1693] to lay on thee, rather then haue these off.

Aut.

1694Oh sir, the loathsomnesse of them offend mee, [l. 1695] more then the stripes I haue receiued, which are mightie [l. 1696] ones and millions.

Clo.

1697Alas poore man, a million of beating may come [l. 1698] to a great matter.

Aut.

1699I am rob’d sir, and beaten: my money, and ap­ [l. 1700] parrell tane from me, and these detestable things put vp­ [l. 1701] on me.

Clo.

1702What, by a horse‑man, or a foot‑man?

Aut.

1703A footman (sweet sir) a footman.

Clo.

1704Indeed, he should be a footman, by the garments [l. 1705] he has left with thee: If this bee a horsemans Coate, it [l. 1706] hath seene very hot seruice. Lend me thy hand, Ile helpe [l. 1707] thee. Come, lend me thy hand.

Aut.

1708Oh good sir, tenderly, oh.

Clo.

1709Alas poore soule.

Aut.

1710Oh good sir, softly, good sir: I feare (sir) my [l. 1711] shoulder‑blade is out.

Clo.

1712How now? Canst stand?

Aut.

1713Softly, deere sir: good sir, softly: you ha done [l. 1714] me a charitable office.

Clo.

1715Doest lacke any mony? I haue a little mony for [l. 1716] thee.

Aut.

1717No, good sweet sir: no, I beseech you sir: I haue [l. 1718] a Kinsman not past three quarters of a mile hence, vnto [l. 1719] whome I was going: I shall there haue money, or anie [l. 1720] thing I want: Offer me no money I pray you, that killes [l. 1721] my heart.

Clow.

1722What manner of Fellow was hee that robb’d [l. 1723] you?

Aut.

1724A fellow (sir) that I haue knowne to goe about [l. 1725] with Troll‑my‑dames: I knew him once a seruant of the [l. 1726] Prince: I cannot tell good sir, for which of his Ver­ [l. 1727] tues it was, but hee was certainely Whipt out of the [l. 1728] Court.

Clo. [p. 291] The Winters Tale.

Clo.

1729His vices you would say: there’s no vertue whipt [l. 1730] out of the Court: they cherish it to make it stay there; [l. 1731] and yet it will no more but abide.

Aut.

1732Vices I would say (Sir.) I know this man well, [l. 1733] he hath bene since an Ape‑bearer, then a Processe‑seruer [l. 1734] (a Baylffe) then hee compast a Motion of the Prodigall [l. 1735] sonne, and married a Tinkers wife, within a Mile where [l. 1736] my Land and Liuing lyes; and (hauing flowne ouer ma­ [l. 1737] ny knauish professions) he setled onely in Rogue: some [l. 1738] call him Autolicus.

Clo.

1739Out vpon him: Prig, for my life Prig: he haunts [l. 1740] Wakes, Faires, and Beare‑baitings.

Aut.

1741Very true sir: he sir hee: that’s the Rogue that [l. 1742] put me into this apparel.

Clo.

1743Not a more cowardly Rogue in all Bohemia; If [l. 1744] you had but look’d bigge, and spit at him, hee’ld haue [l. 1745] runne.

Aut.

1746I must confesse to you (sir) I am no fighter: I am [l. 1747] false of heart that way, & that he knew I warrant him.

Clo.

1748How do you now?

Aut.

1749Sweet sir, much better then I was: I can stand, [l. 1750] and walke: I will euen take my leaue of you, & pace soft­ [l. 1751] ly towards my Kinsmans.

Clo.

1752Shall I bring thee on the way?

Aut.

1753No, good fac’d sir, no sweet sir.

Clo.

1754Then fartheewell, I must go buy Spices for our [l. 1755] sheepe‑shearing.

Exit.

Aut.

1756Prosper you sweet sir. Your purse is not hot e­ [l. 1757] nough to purchase your Spice: Ile be with you at your [l. 1758] sheepe‑shearing too: If I make not this Cheat bring out [l. 1759] another, and the sheerers proue sheepe, let me be vnrold, [l. 1760] and my name put in the booke of Vertue.

Song.
Iog‑on, Iog‑on, the foot‑path way,
And merrily hent the Stile‑a:
A merry heart goes all the day,
Your sad tyres in a Mile‑a.
Exit.

Scena Quarta.

[Act 4, Scene 4]

Enter Florizell, Perdita, Shepherd, Clowne, Polixenes, Ca­
millo, Mopsa, Dorcas, Seruants, Autolicus.

Flo.

1765 These your vnvsuall weeds, to each part of you
Do’s giue a life: no Shepherdesse, but Flora
Peering in Aprils front. This your sheepe‑shearing,
Is as a meeting of the petty Gods,
And you the Queene on’t.

Perd.

1770 Sir: my gracious Lord,
To chide at your extreames, it not becomes me:
(Oh pardon, that I name them:) your high selfe
The gracious marke o’th’Land, you haue obscur’d
With a Swaines wearing: and me (poore lowly Maide)
1775 Most Goddesse‑like prank’d vp: But that our Feasts
In euery Messe, haue folly; and the Feeders
Digest with a Custome, I should blush
To see you so attyr’d: sworne I thinke,
To shew my selfe a glasse.

Flo.

1780 I blesse the time
When my good Falcon, made her flight a‑crosse
Thy Fathers ground.

Perd.

Now Ioue affoord you cause:
To me the difference forges dread (your Greatnesse
1785 Hath not beene vs’d to feare:) euen now I tremble
To thinke your Father, by some accident
Should passe this way, as you did: Oh the Fates,
How would he looke, to see his worke, so noble,
Vildely bound vp? What would he say? Or how
1790 Should I (in these my borrowed Flaunts) behold
The sternnesse of his presence?

Flo.

Apprehend
Nothing but iollity: the Goddes themselues
(Humbling their Deities to loue) haue taken
1795 The shapes of Beasts vpon them. Iupiter,
Became a Bull, and bellow’d: the greene Neptune
A Ram, and bleated: and the Fire‑roab’d‑God
Golden Apollo, a poore humble Swaine,
As I seeme now. Their transformations,
1800 Were neuer for a peece of beauty, rarer,
Nor in a way so chaste: since my desires
Run not before mine honor: nor my Lusts
Burne hotter then my Faith.

Perd.

O but Sir,
1805 Your resolution cannot hold, when 'tis
Oppos’d (as it must be) by th’powre of the King:
One of these two must be necessities,
Which then will speake, that you must change this pur­
 (pose,
Or I my life.

Flo.

1810 Thou deer’st Perdita,
With these forc’d thoughts, I prethee darken not
The Mirth o’th’Feast: Or Ile be thine (my Faire)
Or not my Fathers. For I cannot be
Mine owne, nor any thing to any, if
1815 I be not thine. To this I am most constant,
Though destiny say no. Be merry (Gentle)
Strangle such thoughts as these, with any thing
That you behold the while. Your guests are comming:
Lift vp your countenance, as it were the day
1820 Of celebration of that nuptiall, which
We two haue sworne shall come.

Perd.

O Lady Fortune,
Stand you auspicious.

Flo.

See, your Guests approach,
1825 Addresse your selfe to entertaine them sprightly,
And let’s be red with mirth.

Shep.

Fy (daughter) when my old wife liu’d: vpon
This day, she was both Pantler, Butler, Cooke,
Both Dame and Seruant: Welcom’d all: seru’d all,
1830 Would sing her song, and dance her turne: now heere
At vpper end o’th Table; now, i’th middle:
On his shoulder, and his: her face o’fire
With labour, and the thing she tooke to quench it
She would to each one sip. You are retyred,
1835 As if you were a feasted one: and not
The Hostesse of the meeting: Pray you bid
These vnknowne friends to’s welcome, for it is
A way to make vs better Friends, more knowne.
Come, quench your blushes, and present your selfe
1840 That which you are, Mistris o’th’Feast. Come on,
And bid vs welcome to your sheepe‑shearing,
As your good flocke shall prosper.

Perd.

Sir, welcome:
It is my Fathers will, I should take on mee
1845 The Hostesseship o’th’day: you’re welcome sir.
Giue me those Flowres there (Dorcas.) Reuerend Sirs,
For you, there’s Rosemary, and Rue, these keepe
Seeming, and sauour all the Winter long:
Grace, and Remembrance be to you both,
1850 And welcome to our Shearing.
Bb2 Pol. [p. 292] The Winters Tale.

Pol.

Shepherdesse,
(A faire one are you:) well you fit our ages
With flowres of Winter.

Perd.

Sir, the yeare growing ancient,
1855 Not yet on summers death, nor on the birth
Of trembling winter, the fayrest flowres o’th season
Are our Carnations, and streak’d Gilly‑vors,
(Which some call Natures bastards) of that kind
Our rusticke Gardens barren, and I care not
1860 To get slips of them.

Pol.

Wherefore (gentle Maiden)
Do you neglect them.

Perd.

For I haue heard it said,
There is an Art, which in their pidenesse shares
1865 With great creating‑Nature.

Pol.

Say there be:
Yet Nature is made better by no meane,
But Nature makes that Meane: so ouer that Art,
(Which you say addes to Nature) is an Art
1870 That Nature makes: you see (sweet Maid) we marry
A gentler Sien, to the wildest Stocke,
And make conceyue a barke of baser kinde
By bud of Nobler race. This is an Art
Which do’s mend Nature: change it rather, but
1875 The Art it selfe, is Nature.

Perd.

1876So it is.

Pol.

Then make you Garden rich in Gilly’ vors,
And do not call them bastards.

Perd.

Ile not put
1880 The Dible in earth, to set one slip of them:
No more then were I painted, I would wish
This youth should say 'twer well: and onely therefore
Desire to breed by me. Here’s flowres for you:
Hot Lauender, Mints, Sauory, Mariorum,
1885 The Mary‑gold, that goes to bed with’Sun,
And with him rises, weeping: These are flowres
Of middle summer, and I thinke they are giuen
To men of middle age. Y’are very welcome.

Cam.

I should leaue grasing, were I of your flocke,
1890 And onely liue by gazing.

Perd.

Out alas:
You’ld be so leane, that blasts of Ianuary
Would blow you through and through. Now (my fairst
(Friend,
I would I had some Flowres o’th Spring, that might
1895 Become your time of day: and yours, and yours,
That weare vpon your Virgin‑branches yet
Your Maiden‑heads growing: O Proserpina,
For the Flowres now, that (frighted) thou let’st fall
From Dysses Waggon: Daffadils,
1900 That come before the Swallow dares, and take
The windes of March with beauty: Violets (dim,
But sweeter then the lids of Iuno’s eyes,
Or Cytherea’s breath) pale Prime‑roses,
That dye vnmarried, ere they can behold
1905 Bright Phoebus in his strength (a Maladie
Most incident to Maids:) bold Oxlips, and
The Crowne Imperiall: Lillies of all kinds,
(The Flowre‑de‑Luce being one.) O, these I lacke,
To make you Garlands of) and my sweet friend,
1910 To strew him o’re, and ore.

Flo.

1911What? like a Coarse?

Perd.

No, like a banke, for Loue to lye, and play on:
Not like a Coarse: or if: not to be buried,
But quicke, and in mine armes. Come, take your flours,
1915 Me thinkes I play as I haue seene them do
In Whitson‑Pastorals: Sure this Robe of mine
Do’s change my disposition:

Flo.

What you do,
Still betters what is done. When you speake (Sweet)
1920 I’ld haue you do it euer: When you sing,
I’ld haue you buy, and sell so: so giue Almes,
Pray so: and for the ord’ring your Affayres,
To sing them too. When you do dance, I wish you
A waue o’th Sea, that you might euer do
1925 Nothing but that: moue still, still so:
And owne no other Function. Each your doing,
(So singular, in each particular)
Crownes what you are doing, in the present deeds,
That all your Actes, are Queenes.

Perd.

1930 O Doricles,
Your praises are too large: but that your youth
And the true blood which peepes fairely through’t,
Do plainly giue you out an vnstain’d Shepherd
With wisedome, I might feare (my Doricles)
1935 You woo’d me the false way.

Flo.

I thinke you haue
As little skill to feare, as I haue purpose
To put you to’t. But come, our dance I pray,
Your hand (my Perdita:) so Turtles paire
1940 That neuer meane to part.

Perd.

1941Ile sweare for 'em.

Pol.

This is the prettiest Low‑borne Lasse, that euer
Ran on the greene‑sord: Nothing she do’s, or seems
But smackes of something greater then her selfe,
1945 Too Noble for this place.

Cam.

He tels her something
That makes her blood looke on’t: Good sooth she is
The Queene of Curds and Creame.

Clo.

1949Come on: strike vp.

Dorcas.

1950Mopsa must be your Mistris: marry Garlick [l. 1951] to mend her kissing with.

Mop.

1952Now in good time.

Clo.

1953Not a word, a word, we stand vpon our manners, [l. 1954] Come, strike vp.

Heere a Daunce of Shepheards and
Shephearddesses.

Pol.

1955 Pray good Shepheard, what faire Swaine is this,
Which dances with your daughter?

Shep.

They call him Doricles, and boasts himselfe
To haue a worthy Feeding; but I haue it
Vpon his owne report, and I beleeue it:
1960 He lookes like sooth: he sayes he loues my daughter,
I thinke so too; for neuer gaz’d the Moone
Vpon the water, as hee’l stand and reade
As 'twere my daughters eyes: and to be plaine,
I thinke there is not halfe a kisse to choose
1965 Who loues another best.

Pol.

1966She dances featly.

Shep.

So she do’s any thing, though I report it
That should be silent: If yong Doricles
Do light vpon her, she shall bring him that
1970 Which he not dreames of.
Enter Seruant.

Ser.

1971O Master: if you did but heare the Pedler at the [l. 1972] doore, you would neuer dance againe after a Tabor and [l. 1973] Pipe: no, the Bag‑pipe could not moue you: hee singes [l. 1974] seuerall Tunes, faster then you’l tell money: hee vtters [l. 1975] them as he had eaten ballads, and all mens eares grew to [l. 1976] his Tunes.

Clo.

1977He could neuer come better: hee shall come in: [l. 1978] I loue a ballad but euen too well, if it be dolefull matter [l. 1979] merrily set downe: or a very pleasant thing indeede, and [l. 1980] sung lamentably.

Ser. [p. 293] The Winters Tale.

Ser.

1981He hath songs for man, or woman, of all sizes: [l. 1982] No Milliner can so fit his customers with Gloues: he has [l. 1983] the prettiest Loue‑songs for Maids, so without bawdrie [l. 1984] (which is strange,) with such delicate burthens of Dil­ [l. 1985] do’s and Fadings: Iump‑her, and thump‑her; and where [l. 1986] some stretch‑mouth’d Rascall, would (as it were) meane [l. 1987] mischeefe, and breake a fowle gap into the Matter, hee [l. 1988] makes the maid to answere, Whoop, doe me no harme good [l. 1989] man: put’s him off, slights him, with Whoop, doe mee no [l. 1990] harme good man.

Pol.

1991This is a braue fellow.

Clo.

1992Beleeue mee, thou talkest of an admirable con­ [l. 1993] ceited fellow, has he any vnbraided Wares?

Ser.

1994Hee hath Ribbons of all the colours i’th Raine­ [l. 1995] bow; Points, more then all the Lawyers in Bohemia, can [l. 1996] learnedly handle, though they come to him by th’grosse: [l. 1997] Inckles, Caddysses, Cambrickes, Lawnes: why he sings [l. 1998] em ouer, as they were Gods, or Goddesses: you would [l. 1999] thinke a Smocke were a shee‑Angell, he so chauntes to [l. 2000] the sleeue‑hand, and the worke about the square on’t.

Clo.

2001Pre’thee bring him in, and let him approach sin­ [l. 2002] ging.

Perd.

2003Forewarne him, that he vse no scurrilous words [l. 2004] in’s tunes.

Clow.

2005You haue of these Pedlers, that haue more in [l. 2006] them, then youl’d thinke (Sister.)

Perd.

2007I, good brother, or go about to thinke.

Enter Autolicus singing.
Lawne as white as driuen Snow,
Cypresse blacke as ere was Crow,
2010 Gloues as sweete as Damaske Roses,
Maskes for faces, and for noses:
Bugle‑bracelet, Necke lace Amber,
Perfume for a Ladies Chamber:
Golden Quoifes, and Stomachers
2015 For my Lads, to giue their deers:
Pins, and poaking‑stickes of steele.
What Maids lacke from head to heele:
Come buy of me, come: come buy, come buy,
Buy Lads, or else your Lasses cry: Come buy.

Clo.

2020If I were not in loue with Mopsa, thou shouldst [l. 2021] take no money of me, but being enthrall’d as I am, it will [l. 2022] also be the bondage of certaine Ribbons and Gloues.

Mop.

2023I was promis’d them against the Feast, but they [l. 2024] come not too late now.

Dor.

2025He hath promis’d you more then that, or there [l. 2026] be lyars.

Mop.

2027He hath paid you all he promis’d you: 'May be [l. 2028] he has paid you more, which will shame you to giue him [l. 2029] againe.

Clo.

2030Is there no manners left among maids? Will they [l. 2031] weare their plackets, where they should bear their faces? [l. 2032] Is there not milking‑time? When you are going to bed? [l. 2033] Or kill‑hole? To whistle of these secrets, but you must [l. 2034] be tittle‑tatling before all our guests? 'Tis well they are [l. 2035] whispring: clamor your tongues, and not a word more.

Mop.

2036I haue done; Come you promis’d me a tawdry­ [l. 2037] lace, and a paire of sweet Gloues.

Clo.

2038Haue I not told thee how I was cozen’d by the [l. 2039] way, and lost all my money.

Aut.

2040And indeed Sir, there are Cozeners abroad, ther­ [l. 2041] fore it behooues men to be wary.

Clo.

2042Feare not thou man, thou shalt lose nothing here

Aut.

2043I hope so sir, for I haue about me many parcels [l. 2044] of charge.

Clo.

2045What hast heere? Ballads?

Mop.

2046Pray now buy some: I loue a ballet in print, a [l. 2047] life, for then we are sure they are true.

Aut.

2048Here’s one, to a very dolefull tune, how a Vsu­ [l. 2049] rers wife was brought to bed of twenty money baggs at [l. 2050] a burthen, and how she long’d to eate Adders heads, and [l. 2051] Toads carbonado’d.

Mop.

2052Is it true, thinke you?

Aut.

2053Very true, and but a moneth old.

Dor.

2054Blesse me from marrying a Vsurer.

Aut.

2055Here’s the Midwiues name to’t: one Mist. Tale‑Porter, [l. 2056] and fiue or six honest Wiues, that were present. [l. 2057] Why should I carry lyes abroad?

Mop.

2058'Pray you now buy it.

Clo.

2059Come‑on, lay it by: and let’s first see moe Bal­ [l. 2060] lads: Wee’l buy the other things anon.

Aut.

2061Here’s another ballad of a Fish, that appeared [l. 2062] vpon the coast, on wensday the fourescore of April, fortie [l. 2063] thousand fadom aboue water, & sung this ballad against [l. 2064] the hard hearts of maids: it was thought she was a Wo­ [l. 2065] man, and was turn’d into a cold fish, for she wold not ex­ [l. 2066] change flesh with one that lou’d her: The Ballad is very [l. 2067] pittifull, and as true.

Dor.

2068Is it true too, thinke you.

Autol.

2069Fiue Iustices hands at it, and witnesses more [l. 2070] then my packe will hold.

Clo.

2071Lay it by too; another.

Aut.

2072This is a merry ballad, but a very pretty one.

Mop.

2073Let’s haue some merry ones.

Aut.

2074Why this is a passing merry one, and goes to the [l. 2075] tune of two maids wooing a man: there’s scarse a Maide [l. 2076] westward but she sings it: 'tis in request, I can tell you.

Mop.

2077We can both sing it: if thou’lt beare a part, thou [l. 2078] shalt heare, 'tis in three parts.

Dor.

2079We had the tune on’t, a month agoe.

Aut.

2080I can beare my part, you must know 'tis my oc­ [l. 2081] cupation: Haue at it with you:

Song
Get you hence, for I must goe

Aut.

Where it fits not you to know.

Dor.

Whether?

Mop.

2085 O whether?

Dor.

Whether?

Mop.

It becomes thy oath full well,
Thou to me thy secrets tell.

Dor:

Me too: Let me go thether:

Mop:

2090 Or thou goest to th’Grange, or Mill,

Dor:

If to either thou dost ill,

Aut:

Neither.

Dor:

What neither?

Aut:

Neither:

Dor:

2095 Thou hast sworne my Loue to be,

Mop:

Thou hast sworne it more to mee.
Then whether goest? Say whether?

Clo.

2098Wee’l haue this song out anon by our selues: My [l. 2099] Father, and the Gent. are in sad talke, & wee’ll not trouble [l. 2100] them: Come bring away thy pack after me, Wenches Ile [l. 2101] buy for you both: Pedler let’s haue the first choice; follow [l. 2102] me girls.

Aut.

2103And you shall pay well for 'em.

Song.
Will you buy any Tape, or Lace for your Cape?
2105 My dainty Ducke, my deere‑a?
Any Silke, any Thred, any Toyes for your head
Of the news’t, and fins’t, fins’t weare‑a.
Come to the Pedler, Money’s a medler,
That doth vtter all mens ware‑a.
Exit.

Seruant.

2110Mayster, there is three Carters, three Shep­ [l. 2111] herds, three Neat‑herds, three Swine‑herds yT [that] haue made Bb3 them [p. 294] The Winters Tale. [l. 2112] themselues all men of haire, they cal themselues Saltiers, [l. 2113] and they haue a Dance, which the Wenches say is a gal­ [l. 2114] ly‑maufrey of Gambols, because they are not in’t: but [l. 2115] they themselues are o’th’minde (if it bee not too rough [l. 2116] for some, that know little but bowling) it will please [l. 2117] plentifully.

Shep.

2118Away: Wee’l none on’t; heere has beene too [l. 2119] much homely foolery already. I know (Sir) wee wea­ [l. 2120] rie you.

Pol.

2121You wearie those that refresh vs: pray let’s see [l. 2122] these foure‑threes of Heardsmen.

Ser.

2123One three of them, by their owne report (Sir,) [l. 2124] hath danc’d before the King: and not the worst of the [l. 2125] three, but iumpes twelue foote and a halfe by th’squire.

Shep.

2126Leaue your prating, since these good men are [l. 2127] pleas’d, let them come in: but quickly now.

Ser.

2128Why, they stay at doore Sir.

Heere a Dance of twelue Satyres

Pol.

O Father, you’l know more of that heereafter:
2130 Is it not too farre gone? 'Tis time to part them,
He’s simple, and tels much. How now (faire shepheard)
Your heart is full of something, that do’s take
Your minde from feasting. Sooth, when I was yong,
And handed loue, as you do; I was wont
2135 To load my Shee with knackes: I would haue ransackt
The Pedlers silken Treasury, and haue powr’d it
To her acceptance: you haue let him go,
And nothing marted with him. If your Lasse
Interpretation should abuse, and call this
2140 Your lacke of loue, or bounty, you were straited
For a reply at least, if you make a care
Of happie holding her.

Flo.

Old Sir, I know
She prizes not such trifles as these are:
2145 The gifts she lookes from me, are packt and lockt
Vp in my heart, which I haue giuen already,
But not deliuer’d. O heare me breath my life
Before this ancient Sir, whom (it should seeme)
Hath sometime lou’d: I take thy hand, this hand,
2150 As soft as Doues‑downe, and as white as it,
Or Ethyopians tooth, or the fan’d snow, that’s bolted
By th’Northerne blasts, twice ore.

Pol.

What followes this?
How prettily th’yong Swaine seemes to wash
2155 The hand, was faire before? I haue put you out,
But to your protestation: Let me heare
What you professe.

Flo.

2158Do, and be witnesse too’t.

Pol.

2159And this my neighbour too?

Flo.

2160 And he, and more
Then he, and men: the earth, the heauens, and all;
That were I crown’d the most Imperiall Monarch
Thereof most worthy: were I the fayrest youth
That euer made eye swerue, had force and knowledge
2165 More then was euer mans, I would not prize them
Without her Loue; for her, employ them all,
Commend them, and condemne them to her seruice,
Or to their owne perdition.

Pol.

2169Fairely offer’d.

Cam.

2170This shewes a sound affection.

Shep.

But my daughter,
Say you the like to him.

Per.

I cannot speake
So well, (nothing so well) no, nor meane better
2175 By th’ patterne of mine owne thoughts, I cut out
The puritie of his.

Shep.

Take hands, a bargaine;
And friends vnknowne, you shall beare witnesse to’t:
I giue my daughter to him, and will make
2180 Her Portion, equall his.

Flo.

O, that must bee
I’th Vertue of your daughter: One being dead,
I shall haue more then you can dreame of yet,
Enough then for your wonder: but come‑on,
2185 Contract vs fore these Witnesses.

Shep.

Come, your hand:
And daughter, yours.

Pol.

Soft Swaine a‑while, beseech you,
Haue you a Father?

Flo.

2190I haue: but what of him?

Pol.

2191Knowes he of this?

Flo.

2192He neither do’s, nor shall.

Pol.

Me‑thinkes a Father,
Is at the Nuptiall of his sonne, a guest
2195 That best becomes the Table: Pray you once more
Is not your Father growne incapeable
Of reasonable affayres? Is he not stupid
With Age, and altring Rheumes? Can he speake? heare?
Know man, from man? Dispute his owne estate?
2200 Lies he not bed‑rid? And againe, do’s nothing
But what he did, being childish?

Flo.

No good Sir:
He has his health, and ampler strength indeed
Then most haue of his age.

Pol.

2205 By my white beard,
You offer him (if this be so) a wrong
Something vnfilliall: Reason my sonne
Should choose himselfe a wife, but as good reason
The Father (all whose ioy is nothing else
2210 But faire posterity) should hold some counsaile
In such a businesse.

Flo.

I yeeld all this;
But for some other reasons (my graue Sir)
Which 'tis not fit you know, I not acquaint
2215 My Father of this businesse.

Pol.

2216Let him know’t.

Flo.

2217He shall not.

Pol.

2218Prethee let him.

Flo.

2219No, he must not.

Shep.

2220Let him (my sonne) he shall not need to greeue [l. 2221] At knowing of thy choice.

Flo.

Come, come, he must not:
Marke our Contract.

Pol.

Marke your diuorce (yong sir)
2225 Whom sonne I dare not call: Thou art too base
To be acknowledge. Thou a Scepters heire,
That thus affects a sheepe‑hooke? Thou, old Traitor,
I am sorry, that by hanging thee, I can
But shorten thy life one weeke. And thou, fresh peece
2230 Of excellent Witchcraft, whom of force must know
The royall Foole thou coap’st with.

Shep.

2232Oh my heart.

Pol.

Ile haue thy beauty scratcht with briers & made
More homely then thy state. For thee (fond boy)
2235 If I may euer know thou dost but sigh,
That thou no more shalt neuer see this knacke (as neuer
I meane thou shalt) wee’l barre thee from succession,
Not hold thee of our blood, no not our Kin,
Farre then Deucalion off: (marke thou my words)
2240 Follow vs to the Court. Thou Churle, for this time
(Though full of our displeasure) yet we free thee
From the dead blow of it. And you Enchantment,
Wor. [p. 295] The Winters Tale.
Worthy enough a Heardsman: yea him too,
That makes himselfe (but for our Honor therein)
2245 Vnworthy thee. If euer henceforth, thou
These rurall Latches, to his entrance open,
Or hope his body more, with thy embraces,
I will deuise a death, as cruell for thee
As thou art tender to’t.
Exit.

Perd.

2250 Euen heere vndone:
I was not much a‑fear’d: for once, or twice
I was about to speake, and tell him plainely,
The selfe‑same Sun, that shines vpon his Court,
Hides not his visage from our Cottage, but
2255 Lookes on alike. Wilt please you (Sir) be gone?
I told you what would come of this: Beseech you
Of your owne state take care: This dreame of mine
Being now awake, Ile Queene it no inch farther,
But milke my Ewes, and weepe.

Cam.

2260 Why how now Father,
Speake ere thou dyest.

Shep.

I cannot speake, nor thinke,
Nor dare to know, that which I know: O Sir,
You haue vndone a man of fourescore three,
2265 That thought to fill his graue in quiet: yea,
To dye vpon the bed my father dy’de,
To lye close by his honest bones; but now
Some Hangman must put on my shrowd, and lay me
Where no Priest shouels‑in dust. Oh cursed wretch,
2270 That knew’st this was the Prince, and wouldst aduenture
To mingle faith with him. Vndone, vndone:
If I might dye within this houre, I haue liu’d
To die when I desire.
Exit.

Flo.

Why looke you so vpon me?
2275 I am but sorry, not affear’d: delaid,
But nothing altred: What I was, I am:
More straining on, for plucking backe; not following
My leash vnwillingly.

Cam.

Gracious my Lord,
2280 You know my Fathers temper: at this time
He will allow no speech: (which I do ghesse
You do not purpose to him:) and as hardly
Will he endure your sight, as yet I feare;
Then till the fury of his Highnesse settle
2285 Come not before him.

Flo.

I not purpose it:
I thinke Camillo.

Cam.

2288Euen he, my Lord.

Per.

How often haue I told you 'twould be thus?
2290 How often said my dignity would last
But till 'twer knowne?

Flo.

It cannot faile, but by
The violation of my faith, and then
Let Nature crush the sides o’th earth together,
2295 And marre the seeds within. Lift vp thy lookes:
From my succession wipe me (Father) I
Am heyre to my affection.

Cam.

2298Be aduis’d.

Flo.

I am: and by my fancie, if my Reason
2300 Will thereto be obedient: I haue reason:
If not, my sences better pleas’d with madnesse,
Do bid it welcome.

Cam.

2303This is desperate (sir.)

Flo.

So call it: but it do’s fulfill my vow:
2305 I needs must thinke it honesty. Camillo,
Not for Bohemia, nor the pompe that may
Be thereat gleaned: for all the Sun sees, or
The close earth wombes, or the profound seas, hides
In vnknowne fadomes, will I breake my oath
2310 To this my faire belou’d: Therefore, I pray you,
As you haue euer bin my Fathers honour’d friend,
When he shall misse me, as (in faith I meane not
To see him any more) cast your good counsailes
Vpon his passion: Let my selfe, and Fortune
2315 Tug for the time to come. This you may know,
And so deliuer, I am put to Sea
With her, who heere I cannot hold on shore:
And most opportune to her neede, I haue
A Vessell rides fast by, but not prepar’d
2320 For this designe. What course I meane to hold
Shall nothing benefit your knowledge, nor
Concerne me the reporting.

Cam.

O my Lord,
I would your spirit were easier for aduice,
2325 Or stronger for your neede.

Flo.

Hearke Perdita,
Ile heare you by and by.

Cam.

Hee’s irremoueable,
Resolu’d for flight: Now were I happy if
2330 His going, I could frame to serue my turne,
Saue him from danger, do him loue and honor,
Purchase the sight againe of deere Sicillia,
And that vnhappy King, my Master, whom
I so much thirst to see.

Flo.

2335 Now good Camillo,
I am so fraught with curious businesse, that
I leaue out ceremony.

Cam.

Sir, I thinke
You haue heard of my poore seruices, i’th loue
2340 That I haue borne your Father?

Flo.

Very nobly
Haue you deseru’d: It is my Fathers Musicke
To speake your deeds: not little of his care
To haue them recompenc’d, as thought on.

Cam.

2345 Well (my Lord)
If you may please to thinke I loue the King,
And through him, what’s neerest to him, which is
Your gracious selfe; embrace but my direction,
If your more ponderous and setled proiect
2350 May suffer alteration. On mine honor,
Ile point you where you shall haue such receiuing
As shall become your Highnesse, where you may
Enioy your Mistris; from the whom, I see
There’s no disiunction to be made, but by
2355 (As heauens forefend) your ruine: Marry her,
And with my best endeuours, in your absence,
Your discontenting Father, striue to qualifie
And bring him vp to liking.

Flo.

How Camillo
2360 May this (almost a miracle) be done?
That I may call thee something more then man,
And after that trust to thee.

Cam.

Haue you thought on
A place whereto you’l go?

Flo.

2365 Not any yet:
But as th’vnthought‑on accident is guiltie
To what we wildely do, so we professe
Our selues to be the slaues of chance, and flyes
Of euery winde that blowes.

Cam.

2370 Then list to me:
This followes, if you will not change your purpose
But vndergo this flight: make for Sicillia,
And there present your selfe, and your fayre Princesse,
(For so I see she must be) 'fore Leontes;
Shee [p. 296] The Winters Tale.
2375 She shall be habited, as it becomes
The partner of your Bed. Me thinkes I see
Leontes opening his free Armes, and weeping
His Welcomes forth: asks thee there Sonne forgiuenesse,
As 'twere i’th’Fathers person: kisses the hands
2380 Of your fresh Princesse; ore and ore diuides him,
'Twixt his vnkindnesse, and his Kindnesse: th’one
He chides to Hell, and bids the other grow
Faster then Thought, or Time.

Flo.

Worthy Camillo,
2385 What colour for my Visitation, shall I
Hold vp before him?

Cam.

Sent by the King your Father
To greet him, and to giue him comforts. Sir,
The manner of your bearing towards him, with
2390 What you (as from your Father) shall deliuer,
Things knowne betwixt vs three, Ile write you downe,
The which shall point you forth at euery sitting
What you must say: that he shall not perceiue,
But that you haue your Fathers Bosome there,
2395 And speake his very Heart.

Flo.

I am bound to you:
There is some sappe in this.

Cam.

A Course more promising,
Then a wild dedication of your selues
2400 To vnpath’d Waters, vndream’d Shores; most certaine,
To Miseries enough: no hope to helpe you,
But as you shake off one, to take another:
Nothing so certaine, as your Anchors, who
Doe their best office, if they can but stay you,
2405 Where you’le be loth to be: besides you know,
Prosperitie’s the very bond of Loue,
Whose fresh complexion, and whose heart together,
Affliction alters.

Perd.

One of these is true:
2410 I thinke Affliction may subdue the Cheeke,
But not take‑in the Mind.

Cam.

Yea? say you so?
There shall not, at your Fathers House, these seuen yeeres
Be borne another such.

Flo.

2415 My good Camillo,
She’s as forward, of her Breeding, as
She is i’th’reare’our Birth.

Cam.

I cannot say, 'tis pitty
She lacks Instructions, for she seemes a Mistresse
2420 To most that teach.

Perd.

Your pardon Sir, for this,
Ile blush you Thanks.

Flo.

My prettiest Perdita.
But O, the Thornes we stand vpon: (Camillo)
2425 Preseruer of my Father, now of me,
The Medicine of our House: how shall we doe?
We are not furnish’d like Bohemia's Sonne,
Nor shall appeare in Sicilia.

Cam.

My Lord,
2430 Feare none of this: I thinke you know my fortunes
Doe all lye there: it shall be so my care,
To haue you royally appointed, as if
The Scene you play, were mine. For instance Sir,
That you may know you shall not want: one word.
Enter Autolicus.

Aut.

2435Ha, ha, what a Foole Honestie is? and Trust (his [l. 2436] sworne brother) a very simple Gentleman. I haue sold [l. 2437] all my Tromperie: not a counterfeit Stone, not a Ribbon, [l. 2438] Glasse, Pomander, Browch, Table‑booke, Ballad, Knife, [l. 2439] Tape, Gloue, Shooe‑tye, Bracelet, Horne‑Ring, to keepe [l. 2440] my Pack from fasting: they throng who should buy first, [l. 2441] as if my Trinkets had beene hallowed, and brought a be­ [l. 2442] nediction to the buyer: by which meanes, I saw whose [l. 2443] Purse was best in Picture; and what I saw, to my good [l. 2444] vse, I remembred. My Clowne (who wants but some­ [l. 2445] thing to be a reasonable man) grew so in loue with the [l. 2446] Wenches Song, that hee would not stirre his Petty‑toes, [l. 2447] till he had both Tune and Words, which so drew the rest [l. 2448] of the Heard to me, that all their other Sences stucke in [l. 2449] Eares: you might haue pinch’d a Placket, it was sence­ [l. 2450] lesse; 'twas nothing to gueld a Cod‑peece of a Purse: I [l. 2451] would haue fill’d Keyes of that hung in Chaynes: no [l. 2452] hearing, no feeling, but my Sirs Song, and admiring the [l. 2453] Nothing of it. So that in this time of Lethargie, I pickd [l. 2454] and cut most of their Festiuall Purses: And had not the [l. 2455] old‑man come in with a Whoo‑bub against his Daugh­ [l. 2456] ter, and the Kings Sonne, and scar’d my Chowghes from [l. 2457] the Chaffe, I had not left a Purse aliue in the whole [l. 2458] Army.

Cam.

Nay, but my Letters by this meanes being there
2460 So soone as you arriue, shall cleare that doubt.

Flo.

2461And those that you’le procure from King Leontes?

Cam.

2462Shall satisfie your Father.

Perd.

Happy be you:
All that you speake, shewes faire.

Cam.

2465 Who haue we here?
Wee’le make an Instrument of this: omit
Nothing may giue vs aide.

Aut.

2468If they haue ouer‑heard me now: why hanging.

Cam.

How now (good Fellow)
2470 Why shak’st thou so? Feare not (man)
Here’s no harme intended to thee.

Aut.

2472I am a poore Fellow, Sir.

Cam.

2473Why, be so still: here’s no body will steale that [l. 2474] from thee: yet for the out‑side of thy pouertie, we must [l. 2475] make an exchange; therefore dis‑case thee instantly (thou [l. 2476] must thinke there’s a necessitie in’t) and change Garments [l. 2477] with this Gentleman: Though the penny‑worth (on his [l. 2478] side) be the worst, yet hold thee, there’s some boot.

Aut.

2479I am a poore Fellow, Sir: (I know ye well [l. 2480] enough.)

Cam.

2481Nay prethee dispatch: the Gentleman is halfe [l. 2482] fled already.

Aut.

2483Are you in earnest, Sir? (I smell the trick on’t.)

Flo.

2484Dispatch, I prethee.

Aut.

2485Indeed I haue had Earnest, but I cannot with [l. 2486] conscience take it.

Cam.

Vnbuckle, vnbuckle.
Fortunate Mistresse (let my prophecie
Come home to ye:) you must retire your selfe
2490 Into some Couert; take your sweet‑hearts Hat
And pluck it ore your Browes, muffle your face,
Dis‑mantle you, and (as you can) disliken
The truth of your owne seeming, that you may
(For I doe feare eyes ouer) to Ship‑boord
2495 Get vndescry’d.

Perd.

I see the Play so lyes,
That I must beare a part.

Cam.

No remedie:
Haue you done there?

Flo.

2500 Should I now meet my Father,
He would not call me Sonne.

Cam.

Nay, you shall haue no Hat:
Come Lady, come: Farewell (my friend.)

Aut.

2504Adieu, Sir.

Flo.

2505 O Perdita: what haue we twaine forgot?
’Pray [p. 297] The Winters Tale.
'Pray you a word.

Cam.

What I doe next, shall be to tell the King
Of this escape, and whither they are bound;
Wherein, my hope is, I shall so preuaile,
2510 To force him after: in whose company
I shall re‑view Sicilia; for whose sight,
I haue a Womans Longing.

Flo.

Fortune speed vs:
Thus we set on (Camillo) to th’Sea-side.

Cam.

2515The swifter speed, the better.

Exit.

Aut.

2516I vnderstand the businesse, I heare it: to haue an [l. 2517] open eare, a quick eye, and a nimble hand, is necessary for [l. 2518] a Cut‑purse; a good Nose is requisite also, to smell out [l. 2519] worke for th’other Sences. I see this is the time that the [l. 2520] vniust man doth thriue. What an exchange had this been, [l. 2521] without boot? What a boot is here, with this exchange? [l. 2522] Sure the Gods doe this yeere conniue at vs, and we may [l. 2523] doe any thing extempore. The Prince himselfe is about [l. 2524] a peece of Iniquitie (stealing away from his Father, with [l. 2525] his Clog at his heeles:) if I thought it were a peece of ho­ [l. 2526] nestie to acquaint the King withall, I would not do’t: I [l. 2527] hold it the more knauerie to conceale it; and therein am [l. 2528] I constant to my Profession.

Enter Clowne and Shepheard.

2529Aside, aside, here is more matter for a hot braine: Euery [l. 2530] Lanes end, euery Shop, Church, Session, Hanging, yeelds [l. 2531] a carefull man worke.

Clowne.

2532See, see: what a man you are now? there is no [l. 2533] other way, but to [..]ll the King she’s a Changeling, and [l. 2534] none of your flesh and blood.

Shep.

2535Nay, but heare me.

Clow.

2536Nay; but heare me.

Shep.

2537Goe too then.

Clow.

2538She being none of your flesh and blood, your [l. 2539] flesh and blood ha’s not offended the King, and so your [l. 2540] flesh and blood is not to be punish’d by him. Shew those [l. 2541] things you found about her (those secret things, all but [l. 2542] what she ha’s with her:) This being done, let the Law goe [l. 2543] whistle: I warrant you.

Shep.

2544I will tell the King all, euery word, yea, and his [l. 2545] Sonnes prancks too; who, I may say, is no honest man, [l. 2546] neither to his Father, nor to me, to goe about to make me [l. 2547] the Kings Brother in Law.

Clow.

2548Indeed Brother in Law was the farthest off you [l. 2549] could haue beene to him, and then your Blood had beene [l. 2550] the dearer, by I know how much an ounce.

Aut.

2551Very wisely (Puppies.)

Shep.

2552Well: let vs to the King: there is that in this [l. 2553] Farthell, will make him scratch his Beard.

Aut.

2554I know not what impediment this Complaint [l. 2555] may be to the flight of my Master.

Clo.

2556'Pray heartily he be at'Pallace.

Aut.

2557Though I am not naturally honest, I am so some­ [l. 2558] times by chance: Let me pocket vp my Pedlers excre­ [l. 2559] ment. How now (Rustiques) whither are you bound?

Shep.

2560To th’Pallace (and it like your Worship.)

Aut.

2561Your Affaires there? what? with whom? the [l. 2562] Condition of that Farthell? the place of your dwelling? [l. 2563] your names? your ages? of what hauing? breeding, and [l. 2564] any thing that is fitting to be knowne, discouer?

Clo.

2565We are but plaine fellowes, Sir.

Aut.

2566A Lye; you are rough, and hayrie: Let me haue [l. 2567] no lying; it becomes none but Trades‑men, and they of­ [l. 2568] ten giue vs (Souldiers) the Lye, but wee pay them for it [l. 2569] with stamped Coyne, not stabbing Steele, therefore they [l. 2570] doe not giue vs the Lye.

Clo.

2571Your Worship had like to haue giuen vs one, if [l. 2572] you had not taken your selfe with the manner.

Shep.

2573Are you a Courtier, and’t like you Sir?

Aut.

2574Whether it lke like me, or no, I am a Courtier. Seest [l. 2575] thou not the ayre of the Court, in these enfoldings? Hath [l. 2576] not my gate in it, the measure of the Court? Receiues not [l. 2577] thy Nose Court‑Odour from me? Reflect I not on thy [l. 2578] Basenesse, Court‑Contempt? Think’st thou, for that I [l. 2579] insinuate, at toaze from thee thy Businesse, I am there‑fore [l. 2580] no Courtier? I am Courtier Cap‑a‑pe; and one that [l. 2581] will eyther push‑on, or pluck‑back, thy Businesse there: [l. 2582] whereupon I command thee to open thy Affaire.

Shep.

2583My Businesse, Sir, is to the King.

Aut.

2584What Aduocate ha’st thou to him?

Shep.

2585I know not (and’t like you.)

Clo.

2586Aduocate’s the Court‑word for a Pheazant: say [l. 2587] you haue none.

Shep.

2588None, Sir: I haue no Pheazant Cock, nor Hen.

Aut.

How blessed are we, that are not simple men?
2590 Yet Nature might haue made me as these are,
Therefore I will not disdaine.

Clo.

2592This cannot be but a great Courtier.

Shep.

2593His Garments are rich, but he weares them not [l. 2594] handsomely.

Clo.

2595He seemes to be the more Noble, in being fanta­ [l. 2596] sticall: A great man, Ile warrant; I know by the picking [l. 2597] on’s Teeth.

Aut.

2598The Farthell there? What’s i’th’Farthell? [l. 2599] Wherefore that Box?

Shep.

2600Sir, there lyes such Secrets in this Farthell and [l. 2601] Box, which none must know but the King, and which hee [l. 2602] shall know within this houre, if I may come to th’speech [l. 2603] of him.

Aut.

2604Age, thou hast lost thy labour.

Shep.

2605Why Sir?

Aut.

2606The King is not at the Pallace, he is gone aboord [l. 2607] a new Ship, to purge Melancholy, and ayre himselfe: for [l. 2608] if thou bee’st capable of things serious, thou must know [l. 2609] the King is full of griefe.

Shep.

2610So 'tis said (Sir:) about his Sonne, that should [l. 2611] haue marryed a Shepheards Daughter.

Aut.

2612If that Shepheard be not in hand‑fast, let him [l. 2613] flye; the Curses he shall haue, the Tortures he shall feele, [l. 2614] will breake the back of Man, the heart of Monster.

Clo.

2615Thinke you so, Sir?

Aut.

2616Not hee alone shall suffer what Wit can make [l. 2617] heauie, and Vengeance bitter; but those that are Iermaine [l. 2618] to him (though remou’d fiftie times) shall all come vnder [l. 2619] the Hang‑man: which, though it be great pitty, yet it is [l. 2620] necessarie. An old Sheepe‑whistling Rogue, a Ram‑ten­ [l. 2621] der, to offer to haue his Daughter come into grace? Some [l. 2622] say hee shall be ston’d: but that death is too soft for him [l. 2623] (say I:) Draw our Throne into a Sheep‑Coat? all deaths [l. 2624] are too few, the sharpest too easie.

Clo.

2625Ha’s the old‑man ere a Sonne Sir (doe you heare) [l. 2626] and’t like you, Sir?

Aut.

2627Hee ha’s a Sonne: who shall be flayd aliue, then [l. 2628] 'noynted ouer with Honey, set on the head of a Waspes [l. 2629] Nest, then stand till he be three quarters and a dram dead: [l. 2630] then recouer’d againe with Aquavite, or some other hot [l. 2631] Infusion: then, raw as he is (and in the hotest day Progno­ [l. 2632] stication proclaymes) shall he be set against a Brick‑wall, [l. 2633] (the Sunne looking with a South‑ward eye vpon him; [l. 2634] where hee is to behold him, with Flyes blown to death.) [l. 2635] But what talke we of these Traitorly‑Rascals, whose mi­ [l. 2636] series are to be smil’d at, their offences being so capitall?

Tell [p. 298] The Winters Tale.

2637Tell me (for you seeme to be honest plaine men) what you [l. 2638] haue to the King: being something gently consider’d, Ile [l. 2639] bring you where he is aboord, tender your persons to his [l. 2640] presence, whisper him in your behalfes; and if it be in [l. 2641] man, besides the King, to effect your Suites, here is man [l. 2642] shall doe it.

Clow.

2643He seemes to be of great authoritie: close with [l. 2644] him, giue him Gold; and though Authoritie be a stub­ [l. 2645] borne Beare, yet hee is oft led by the Nose with Gold: [l. 2646] shew the in‑side of your Purse to the out‑side of his [l. 2647] hand, and no more adoe. Remember ston’d, and flay’d [l. 2648] aliue.

Shep.

2649And’t please you (Sir) to vndertake the Businesse [l. 2650] for vs, here is that Gold I haue: Ile make it as much [l. 2651] more, and leaue this young man in pawne, till I bring it [l. 2652] you.

Aut.

2653After I haue done what I promised?

Shep.

2654I Sir.

Aut.

2655Well, giue me the Moitie: Are you a partie in [l. 2656] this Businesse?

Clow.

2657In some sort, Sir: but though my case be a pit­ [l. 2658] tifull one, I hope I shall not be flayd out of it.

Aut.

2659Oh, that’s the case of the Shepheards Sonne: [l. 2660] hang him, hee’le be made an example.

Clow.

2661Comfort, good comfort: We must to the King, [l. 2662] and shew our strange sights: he must know 'tis none of [l. 2663] your Daughter, nor my Sister: wee are gone else. Sir, I [l. 2664] will giue you as much as this old man do’s, when the Bu­ [l. 2665] sinesse is performed, and remaine (as he sayes) your pawne [l. 2666] till it be brought you.

Aut.

2667I will trust you. Walke before toward the Sea­ [l. 2668] side, goe on the right hand, I will but looke vpon the [l. 2669] Hedge, and follow you.

Clow.

2670We are bless’d, in this man: as I may say, euen [l. 2671] bless’d.

Shep.

2672Let’s before, as he bids vs: he was prouided to [l. 2673] doe vs good.

Aut.

2674If I had a mind to be honest, I see Fortune would [l. 2675] not suffer mee: shee drops Booties in my mouth. I am [l. 2676] courted now with a double occasion: (Gold, and a means [l. 2677] to doe the Prince my Master good; which, who knowes [l. 2678] how that may turne backe to my aduancement?) I will [l. 2679] bring these two Moales, these blind‑ones, aboord him: if [l. 2680] he thinke it fit to shoare them againe, and that the Com­ [l. 2681] plaint they haue to the King, concernes him nothing, let [l. 2682] him call me Rogue, for being so farre officious, for I am [l. 2683] proofe against that Title, and what shame else belongs [l. 2684] to’t: To him will I present them, there may be matter in [l. 2685] it.

Exeunt.

Actus Quintus. Scena Prima.

[Act 5, Scene 1]

Enter Leontes, Cleomines, Dion, Paulina, Seruants:
Florizel, Perdita.

Cleo.

Sir, you haue done enough, and haue perform’d
A Saint‑like Sorrow: No fault could you make,
Which you haue not redeem’d; indeed pay’d downe
More penitence, then done trespas: At the last
2690 Doe, as the Heauens haue done; forget your euill,
With them, forgiue your selfe.

Leo.

Whilest I remember
Her, and her Vertues, I cannot forget
My blemishes in them, and so still thinke of
2695 The wrong I did my selfe: which was so much,
That Heire‑lesse it hath made my Kingdome, and
Destroy’d the sweet’st Companion, that ere man
Bred his hopes out of, true.

Paul.

Too true (my Lord:)
2700 If one by one, you wedded all the World,
Or from the All that are, tooke something good,
To make a perfect Woman; she you kill’d,
Would be vnparallell’d.

Leo.

I thinke so. Kill’d?
2705 She I kill’d? I did so: but thou strik’st me
Sorely, to say I did: it is as bitter
Vpon thy Tongue, as in my Thought. Now, good now,
Say so but seldom.

Cleo.

Not at all, good Lady:
2710 You might haue spoken a thousand things, that would
Haue done the time more benefit, and grac’d
Your kindnesse better.

Paul.

2713You are one of those [l. 2714] Would haue him wed againe.

Dio.

2715 If you would not so,
You pitty not the State, nor the Remembrance
Of his most Soueraigne Name: Consider little,
What Dangers, by his Highnesse faile of Issue,
May drop vpon his Kingdome, and deuoure
2720 Incertaine lookers on. What were more holy,
Then to reioyce the former Queene is well?
What holyer, then for Royalties repayre,
For present comfort, and for future good,
To blesse the Bed of Maiestie againe
2725 With a sweet Fellow to’t?

Paul.

There is none worthy,
(Respecting her that’s gone:) besides the Gods
Will haue fulfill’d their secret purposes:
For ha’s not the Diuine Apollo said?
2730 Is’t not the tenor of his Oracle,
That King Leontes shall not haue an Heire,
Till his lost Child be found? Which, that it shall,
Is all as monstrous to our humane reason,
As my Antigonus to breake his Graue,
2735 And come againe to me: who, on my life,
Did perish with the Infant. 'Tis your councell,
My Lord should to the Heauens be contrary,
Oppose against their wills. Care not for Issue,
The Crowne will find an Heire. Great Alexander
2740 Left his to th’Worthiest: so his Successor
Was like to be the best.

Leo.

Good Paulina,
Who hast the memorie of Hermione
I know in honor: O, that euer I
2745 Had squar’d me to thy councell: then, euen now,
I might haue look’d vpon my Queenes full eyes,
Haue taken Treasure from her Lippes.

Paul.

And left them
More rich, for what they yielded.

Leo.

2750 Thou speak’st truth:
No more such Wiues, therefore no Wife: one worse,
And better vs’d, would make her Sainted Spirit
Againe possesse her Corps, and on this Stage
(Where we Offendors now appeare) Soule‑vext,
2755 And begin, why to me?

Paul.

Had she such power,
She had iust such cause.

Leo.

She had, and would incense me
To murther her I marryed.
Paul. I [p. 299] The Winters Tale.

Paul.

2760 I should so:
Were I the Ghost that walk’d, Il’d bid you marke
Her eye, and tell me for what dull part in’t
You chose her: then Il’d shrieke, that euen your eares
Should rift to heare me, and the words that follow’d,
2765 Should be, Remember mine.

Leo.

Starres, Starres,
And all eyes else, dead coales: feare thou no Wife;
Ile haue no Wife, Paulina.

Paul.

Will you sweare
2770 Neuer to marry, but by my free leaue?

Leo.

2771Neuer (Paulina) so be bless’d my Spirit.

Paul.

2772Then good my Lords, beare witnesse to his Oath.

Cleo.

2773You tempt him ouer‑much.

Paul.

Vnlesse another,
2775 As like Hermione, as is her Picture,
Affront his eye.

Cleo.

2777Good Madame, I haue done.

Paul.

Yet if my Lord will marry: if you will, Sir;
No remedie but you will: Giue me the Office
2780 To chuse you a Queene: she shall not be so young
As was your former, but she shall be such
As (walk’d your first Queenes Ghost) it should take ioy
To see her in your armes.

Leo.

My true Paulina,
2785 We shall not marry, till thou bidst vs.

Paul.

That
Shall be when your first Queene’s againe in breath:
Neuer till then.
Enter a Seruant.

Ser.

One that giues out himselfe Prince Florizell,
2790 Sonne of Polixenes, with his Princesse (she
The fairest I haue yet beheld) desires accesse
To your high presence.

Leo.

What with him? he comes not
Like to his Fathers Greatnesse: his approach
2795 (So out of circumstance, and suddaine) tells vs,
'Tis not a Visitation fram’d, but forc’d
By need, and accident. What Trayne?

Ser.

But few,
And those but meane.

Leo.

2800His Princesse (say you) with him?

Ser.

I: the most peerelesse peece of Earth, I thinke,
That ere the Sunne shone bright on.

Paul.

Oh Hermione,
As euery present Time doth boast it selfe
2805 Aboue a better, gone; so must thy Graue
Giue way to what’s seene now. Sir, you your selfe
Haue said, and writ so; but your writing now
Is colder then that Theame: she had not beene,
Nor was not to be equall’d, thus your Verse
2810 Flow’d with her Beautie once; 'tis shrewdly ebb’d,
To say you haue seene a better.

Ser.

Pardon, Madame:
The one, I haue almost forgot (your pardon:)
The other, when she ha’s obtayn’d your Eye,
2815 Will haue your Tongue too. This is a Creature,
Would she begin a Sect, might quench the zeale
Of all Professors else; make Proselytes
Of who she but bid Follow.

Paul.

2819How? not women?

Ser.

2820 Women will loue her, that she is a Woman
More worth then any Man: Men, that she is
The rarest of all Women.

Leo.

Goe Cleomines,
Your selfe (assisted with your honor’d Friends)
2825 Bring them to our embracement. Still 'tis strange,
He thus should steale vpon vs.
Exit.

Paul.

Had our Prince
(Iewell of Children) seene this houre, he had payr’d
Well with this Lord; there was not full a moneth
2830 Betweene their births.

Leo.

'Prethee no more; cease: thou know’st
He dyes to me againe, when talk’d‑of: sure
When I shall see this Gentleman, thy speeches
Will bring me to consider that, which may
2835 Vnfurnish me of Reason. They are come.
Enter Florizell, Perdita, Cleomines, and others.
Your Mother was most true to Wedlock, Prince,
For she did print your Royall Father off,
Conceiuing you. Were I but twentie one,
Your Fathers Image is so hit in you,
2840 (His very ayre) that I should call you Brother,
As I did him, and speake of something wildly
By vs perform’d before. Most dearely welcome,
And your faire Princesse (Goddesse) oh: alas,
I lost a couple, that 'twixt Heauen and Earth
2845 Might thus haue stood, begetting wonder, as
You (gracious Couple) doe: and then I lost
(All mine owne Folly) the Societie,
Amitie too of your braue Father, whom
(Though bearing Miserie) I desire my life
2850 Once more to looke on him.

Flo.

By his command
Haue I here touch’d Sicilia, and from him
Giue you all greetings, that a King (at friend)
Can send his Brother: and but Infirmitie
2855 (Which waits vpon worne times) hath something seiz’d
His wish’d Abilitie, he had himselfe
The Lands and Waters, 'twixt your Throne and his,
Measur’d, to looke vpon you; whom he loues
(He bad me say so) more then all the Scepters,
2860 And those that beare them, liuing.

Leo.

Oh my Brother,
(Good Gentleman) the wrongs I haue done thee, stire
Afresh within me: and these thy offices
(So rarely kind) are as Interpreters
2865 Of my behind‑hand slacknesse. Welcome hither,
As is the Spring to th’Earth. And hath he too
Expos’d this Paragon to th’fearefull vsage
(At least vngentle) of the dreadfull Neptune,
To greet a man, not worth her paines; much lesse,
2870 Th’aduenture of her person?

Flo.

Good my Lord,
She came from Libia.

Leo.

Where the Warlike Smalus,
That Noble honor’d Lord, is fear’d, and lou’d?

Flo.

2875 Most Royall Sir,
From thence: from him, whose Daughter
His Teares proclaym’d his parting with her: thence
(A prosperous South‑wind friendly) we haue cross’d,
To execute the Charge my Father gaue me,
2880 For visiting your Highnesse: My best Traine
I haue from your Sicilian Shores dismiss’d;
Who for Bohemia bend, to signifie
Not onely my successe in Libia (Sir)
But my arriuall, and my Wifes, in safetie
2885 Here, where we are.

Leo.

The blessed Gods
Purge all Infection from our Ayre, whilest you
Doe Clymate here: you haue a holy Father,
A graceful Gentleman, against whose person
(So [p. 300] The Winters Tale.
2890 (So sacred as it is) I haue done sinne,
For which, the Heauens (taking angry note)
Haue left me Issue‑lesse: and your Father’s bless’d
(As he from Heauen merits it) with you,
Worthy his goodnesse. What might I haue been,
2895 Might I a Sonne and Daughter now haue look’d on,
Such goodly things as you?
Enter a Lord.

Lord.

Most Noble Sir,
That which I shall report, will beare no credit,
Were not the proofe so nigh. Please you (great Sir)
2900 Bohemia greets you from himselfe, by me:
Desires you to attach his Sonne, who ha’s
(His Dignitie, and Dutie both cast off)
Fled from his Father, from his Hopes, and with
A Shepheards Daughter.

Leo.

2905Where’s Bohemia? speake:

Lord.

Here, in your Citie: I now came from him.
I speake amazedly, and it becomes
My meruaile, and my Message. To your Court
Whiles he was hastning (in the Chase, it seemes,
2910 Of this faire Couple) meetes he on the way
The Father of this seeming Lady, and
Her Brother, hauing both their Countrey quitted,
With this young Prince.

Flo.

Camillo ha’s betray’d me;
2915 Whose honor, and whose honestie till now,
Endur’d all Weathers.

Lord.

Lay’t so to his charge:
He’s with the King your Father.

Leo.

2919Who? Camillo?

Lord.

2920 Camillo (Sir:) I spake with him: who now
Ha’s these poore men in question. Neuer saw I
Wretches so quake: they kneele, they kisse the Earth;
Forsweare themselues as often as they speake:
Bohemia stops his eares, and threatens them
2925 With diuers deaths, in death.

Perd.

Oh my poore Father:
The Heauen sets Spyes vpon vs, will not haue
Our Contract celebrated.

Leo.

2929You are marryed?

Flo.

2930 We are not (Sir) nor are we like to be:
The Starres (I see) will kisse the Valleyes first:
The oddes for high and low’s alike.

Leo.

2933My Lord, [l. 2934] Is this the Daughter of a King?

Flo.

2935 She is,
When once she is my Wife.

Leo.

That once (I see) by your good Fathers speed,
Will come‑on very slowly. I am sorry
(Most sorry) you haue broken from his liking,
2940 Where you were ty’d in dutie: and as sorry,
Your Choice is not so rich in Worth, as Beautie,
That you might well enioy her.

Flo.

Deare, looke vp:
Though Fortune, visible an Enemie,
2945 Should chase vs, with my Father; powre no iot
Hath she to change our Loues. Beseech you (Sir)
Remember, since you ow’d no more to Time
Then I doe now: with thought of such Affections,
Step forth mine Aduocate: at your request,
2950 My Father will graunt precious things, as Trifles.

Leo.

Would he doe so, I’ld beg your precious Mistris,
Which he counts but a Trifle.

Paul.

Sir (my Liege)
Your eye hath too much youth in’t: not a moneth
2955 'Fore your Queene dy’d, she was more worth such gazes,
Then what you looke on now.

Leo.

I thought of her,
Euen in these Lookes I made. But your Petition
Is yet vn‑answer’d: I will to your Father:
2960 Your Honor not o’re‑throwne by your desires,
I am friend to them, and you: Vpon which Errand
I now goe toward him: therefore follow me,
And marke what way I make: Come good my Lord.
Exeunt.

Scœna Secunda.

[Act 5, Scene 2]

Enter Autolicus, and a Gentleman.

Aut.

2964Beseech you (Sir) were you present at this Re­ [l. 2965] lation?

Gent. 1.

2966I was by at the opening of the Farthell, heard [l. 2967] the old Shepheard deliuer the manner how he found it: [l. 2968] Whereupon (after a little amazednesse) we were all com­ [l. 2969] manded out of the Chamber: onely this (me thought) I [l. 2970] heard the Shepheard say, he found the Child.

Aut.

2971I would most gladly know the issue of it.

Gent. 1.

2972I make a broken deliuerie of the Businesse; [l. 2973] but the changes I perceiued in the King, and Camillo, were [l. 2974] very Notes of admiration: they seem’d almost, with sta­ [l. 2975] ring on one another, to teare the Cases of their Eyes. [l. 2976] There was speech in their dumbnesse, Language in their [l. 2977] very gesture: they look’d as they had heard of a World [l. 2978] ransom’d, or one destroyed: a notable passion of Won­ [l. 2979] der appeared in them: but the wisest beholder, that knew [l. 2980] no more but seeing, could not say, if th’importance were [l. 2981] Ioy, or Sorrow; but in the extremitie of the one, it must [l. 2982] needs be.

Enter another Gentleman.

2983Here comes a Gentleman, that happily knowes more: [l. 2984] The Newes, Rogero.

Gent. 2.

2985Nothing but Bon‑fires: the Oracle is fulfill’d: [l. 2986] the Kings Daughter is found: such a deale of wonder is [l. 2987] broken out within this houre, that Ballad‑makers cannot [l. 2988] be able to expresse it.

Enter another Gentleman.

2989Here comes the Lady Paulina’s Steward, hee can deliuer [l. 2990] you more. How goes it now (Sir.) This Newes (which [l. 2991] is call’d true) is so like an old Tale, that the veritie of it is [l. 2992] in strong suspition: Ha’s the King found his Heire?

Gent. 3.

2993Most true, if euer Truth were pregnant by [l. 2994] Circumstance: That which you heare, you’le sweare [l. 2995] you see, there is such vnitie in the proofes. The Mantle [l. 2996] of Queene Hermiones: her Iewell about the Neck of it: [l. 2997] the Letters of Antigonus found with it, which they know [l. 2998] to be his Character: the Maiestie of the Creature, in re­ [l. 2999] semblance of the Mother: the Affection of Noblenesse, [l. 3000] which Nature shewes aboue her Breeding, and many o­ [l. 3001] ther Euidences, proclayme her, with all certaintie, to be [l. 3002] the Kings Daughter. Did you see the meeting of the [l. 3003] two Kings?

Gent. 2.

3004No.

Gent. 3.

3005Then haue you lost a Sight which was to bee [l. 3006] seene, cannot bee spoken of. There might you haue be­ [l. 3007] held one Ioy crowne another, so and in such manner, that [l. 3008] it seem’d Sorrow wept to take leaue of them: for their [l. 3009] Ioy waded in teares. There was casting vp of Eyes, hol­ [l. 3010] ding vp of Hands, with Countenance of such distraction, [l. 3011] that they were to be knowne by Garment, not by Fauor. Our [p. 301] The Winters Tale. [l. 3012] Our King being ready to leape out of himselfe, for ioy of [l. 3013] his found Daughter; as if that Ioy were now become a [l. 3014] Losse, cryes, Oh, thy Mother, thy Mother: then askes [l. 3015] Bohemia forgiuenesse, then embraces his Sonne‑in‑Law: [l. 3016] then againe worryes he his Daughter, with clipping her. [l. 3017] Now he thanks the old Shepheard (which stands by, like [l. 3018] a Weather‑bitten Conduit, of many Kings Reignes.) I [l. 3019] neuer heard of such another Encounter; which lames Re­ [l. 3020] port to follow it, and vndo’s description to doe it.

Gent. 2.

3021What, 'pray you, became of Antigonus, that [l. 3022] carryed hence the Child?

Gent. 3.

3023Like an old Tale still, which will haue matter [l. 3024] to rehearse, though Credit be asleepe, and not an eare o­ [l. 3025] pen; he was torne to pieces with a Beare: This auouches [l. 3026] the Shepheards Sonne; who ha’s not onely his Innocence [l. 3027] (which seemes much) to iustifie him, but a Hand‑kerchief [l. 3028] and Rings of his, that Paulina knows.

Gent. 1.

3029What became of his Barke, and his Fol­ [l. 3030] lowers?

Gent. 3.

3031Wrackt the same instant of their Masters [l. 3032] death, and in the view of the Shepheard: so that all the [l. 3033] Instruments which ayded to expose the Child, were euen [l. 3034] then lost, when it was found. But oh the Noble Combat, [l. 3035] that 'twixt Ioy and Sorrow was fought in Paulina. Shee [l. 3036] had one Eye declin’d for the losse of her Husband, ano­ [l. 3037] ther eleuated, that the Oracle was fulfill’d: Shee lifted the [l. 3038] Princesse from the Earth, and so locks her in embracing, [l. 3039] as if shee would pin her to her heart, that shee might no [l. 3040] more be in danger of loosing.

Gent. 1.

3041The Dignitie of this Act was worth the au­ [l. 3042] dience of Kings and Princes, for by such was it acted.

Gent. 3.

3043One of the prettyest touches of all, and that [l. 3044] which angl’d for mine Eyes (caught the Water, though [l. 3045] not the Fish) was, when at the Relation of the Queenes [l. 3046] death (with the manner how shee came to’t, brauely con­ [l. 3047] fess’d, and lamented by the King) how attentiuenesse [l. 3048] wounded his Daughter, till (from one signe of dolour to [l. 3049] another) shee did (with an Alas) I would faine say, bleed [l. 3050] Teares; for I am sure, my heart wept blood. Who was [l. 3051] most Marble, there changed colour: some swownded, all [l. 3052] sorrowed: if all the World could haue seen’t, the Woe [l. 3053] had beene vniuersall.

Gent. 1.

3054Are they returned to the Court?

Gent. 3.

3055No: The Princesse hearing of her Mothers [l. 3056] Statue (which is in the keeping of Paulina) a Peece many [l. 3057] yeeres in doing, and now newly perform’d, by that rare [l. 3058] Italian Master, Iulio Romano, who (had he himselfe Eter­ [l. 3059] nitie, and could put Breath into his Worke) would be­ [l. 3060] guile Nature of her Custome, so perfectly he is her Ape: [l. 3061] He so neere to Hermione, hath done Hermione, that they [l. 3062] say one would speake to her, and stand in hope of answer. [l. 3063] Thither (with all greedinesse of affection) are they gone, [l. 3064] and there they intend to Sup.

Gent. 2.

3065I thought she had some great matter there in [l. 3066] hand, for shee hath priuately, twice or thrice a day, euer [l. 3067] since the death of Hermione, visited that remoued House. [l. 3068] Shall wee thither, and with our companie peece the Re­ [l. 3069] ioycing?

Gent. 1.

3070Who would be thence, that ha’s the benefit [l. 3071] of Accesse? euery winke of an Eye, some new Grace [l. 3072] will be borne: our Absence makes vs vnthriftie to our [l. 3073] Knowledge. Let’s along.

Exit.

Aut.

3074Now (had I not the dash of my former life in [l. 3075] me) would Preferment drop on my head. I brought the [l. 3076] old man and his Sonne aboord the Prince; told him, I [l. 3077] heard them talke of a Farthell, and I know not what: but [l. 3078] he at that time ouer‑fond of the Shepheards Daughter (so [l. 3079] he then tooke her to be) who began to be much Sea‑sick, [l. 3080] and himselfe little better, extremitie of Weather conti­ [l. 3081] nuing, this Mysterie remained vndiscouer’d. But 'tis all [l. 3082] one to me: for had I beene the finder‑out of this Secret, [l. 3083] it would not haue rellish’d among my other discredits.

Enter Shepheard and Clowne.

3084Here come those I haue done good to against my will, [l. 3085] and alreadie appearing in the blossomes of their For­ [l. 3086] tune.

Shep.

3087Come Boy, I am past moe Children: but thy [l. 3088] Sonnes and Daughters will be all Gentlemen borne.

Clow.

3089You are well met (Sir:) you deny’d to fight [l. 3090] with mee this other day, because I was no Gentleman [l. 3091] borne. See you these Clothes? say you see them not, [l. 3092] and thinke me still no Gentleman borne: You were best [l. 3093] say these Robes are not Gentlemen borne. Giue me the [l. 3094] Lye: doe: and try whether I am not now a Gentleman [l. 3095] borne.

Aut.

3096I know you are now (Sir) a Gentleman borne.

Clow.

3097I, and haue been so any time these foure hours.

Shep.

3098And so haue I, Boy.

Clow.

3099So you haue: but I was a Gentleman borne be­ [l. 3100] fore my Father: for the Kings Sonne tooke me by the [l. 3101] hand, and call’d mee Brother: and then the two Kings [l. 3102] call’d my Father Brother: and then the Prince (my Bro­ [l. 3103] ther) and the Princesse (my Sister) call’d my Father, Father; [l. 3104] and so wee wept: and there was the first Gentleman‑like [l. 3105] teares that euer we shed.

Shep.

3106We may liue (Sonne) to shed many more.

Clow.

3107I: or else 'twere hard luck, being in so preposte­ [l. 3108] rous estate as we are.

Aut.

3109I humbly beseech you (Sir) to pardon me all the [l. 3110] faults I haue committed to your Worship, and to giue [l. 3111] me your good report to the Prince my Master.

Shep.

3112'Prethee Sonne doe: for we must be gentle, now [l. 3113] we are Gentlemen.

Clow.

3114Thou wilt amend thy life?

Aut.

3115I, and it like your good Worship.

Clow.

3116Giue me thy hand: I will sweare to the Prince, [l. 3117] thou art as honest a true Fellow as any is in Bohemia.

Shep.

3118You may say it, but not sweare it.

Clow.

3119Not sweare it, now I am a Gentleman? Let [l. 3120] Boores and Francklins say it, Ile sweare it.

Shep.

3121How if it be false (Sonne?)

Clow.

3122If it be ne’re so false, a true Gentleman may [l. 3123] sweare it, in the behalfe of his Friend: And Ile sweare to [l. 3124] the Prince, thou art a tall Fellow of thy hands, and that [l. 3125] thou wilt not be drunke: but I know thou art no tall Fel­ [l. 3126] low of thy hands, and that thou wilt be drunke: but Ile [l. 3127] sweare it, and I would thou would’st be a tall Fellow of [l. 3128] thy hands.

Aut.

3129I will proue so (Sir) to my power.

Clow.

3130I, by any meanes proue a tall Fellow: if I do not [l. 3131] wonder, how thou dar’st venture to be drunke, not being [l. 3132] a tall Fellow, trust me not. Harke, the Kings and Prin­ [l. 3133] ces (our Kindred) are going to see the Queenes Picture. [l. 3134] Come, follow vs: wee’le be thy good Masters.

Exeunt.

Scœna Tertia.

[Act 5, Scene 3]

Enter Leontes, Polixenes, Florizell, Perdita, Camillo,
Paulina: Hermione (like a Statue:) Lords, &c.

Leo.

3135 O graue and good Paulina, the great comfort
That I haue had of thee?
Cc Paul. What [p. 302] The Winters Tale.

Paul.

What (Soueraigne Sir)
I did not well, I meant well: all my Seruices
You haue pay’d home. But that you haue vouchsaf’d
3140 (With your Crown’d Brother, and these your contracted
Heires of your Kingdomes) my poore House to visit;
It is a surplus of your Grace, which neuer
My life may last to answere.

Leo.

O Paulina,
3145 We honor you with trouble: but we came
To see the Statue of our Queene. Your Gallerie
Haue we pass’d through, not without much content
In many singularities; but we saw not
That which my Daughter came to looke vpon,
3150 The Statue of her Mother.

Paul.

As she liu’d peerelesse,
So her dead likenesse I doe well beleeue
Excells what euer yet you look’d vpon,
Or hand of Man hath done: therefore I keepe it
3155 Louely, apart. But here it is: prepare
To see the Life as liuely mock’d, as euer
Still Sleepe mock’d Death: behold, and say 'tis well.
I like your silence, it the more shewes‑off
Your wonder: but yet speake, first you (my Liege)
3160 Comes it not something neere?

Leo.

Her naturall Posture.
Chide me (deare Stone) that I may say indeed
Thou art Hermione; or rather, thou art she,
In thy not chiding: for she was as tender
3165 As Infancie, and Grace. But yet (Paulina)
Hermione was not so much wrinckled, nothing
So aged as this seems.

Pol.

3168Oh, not by much.

Paul.

So much the more our Caruers excellence,
3170 Which lets goe‑by some sixteene yeeres, and makes her
As she liu’d now.

Leo.

As now she might haue done,
So much to my good comfort, as it is
Now piercing to my Soule. Oh, thus she stood,
3175 Euen with such Life of Maiestie (warme Life,
As now it coldly stands) when first I woo’d her.
I am asham’d: Do’s not the Stone rebuke me,
For being more Stone then it? Oh Royall Peece:
There’s Magick in thy Maiestie, which ha’s
3180 My Euils coniur’d to remembrance; and
From thy admiring Daughter tooke the Spirits,
Standing like Stone with thee.

Perd.

And giue me leaue,
And doe not say 'tis Superstition, that
3185 I kneele, and then implore her Blessing. Lady,
Deere Queene, that ended when I but began,
Giue me that hand of yours, to kisse.

Paul.

O, patience:
The Statue is but newly fix’d; the Colour’s
3190 Not dry.

Cam.

My Lord, your Sorrow was too sore lay’d‑on,
Which sixteene Winters cannot blow away,
So many Summers dry: scarce any Ioy
Did euer so long liue; no Sorrow,
3195 But kill’d it selfe much sooner.

Pol.

Deere my Brother,
Let him, that was the cause of this, haue powre
To take‑off so much griefe from you, as he
Will peece vp in himself.

Paul.

3200 Indeed my Lord,
If I had thought the sight of my poore Image
Would thus haue wrought you (for the Stone is mine)
Il’d not haue shew’d it.

Leo.

3204Doe not draw the Curtaine.

Paul.

3205No longer shall you gaze on’t, least your Fancie [l. 3206] May thinke anon, it moues.

Leo.

Let be, let be:
Would I were dead, but that me thinkes alreadie.
(What was he that did make it?) See (my Lord)
3210 Would you not deeme it breath’d? and that those veines
Did verily beare blood?

Pol.

'Masterly done:
The very Life seemes warme vpon her Lippe.

Leo.

The fixure of her Eye ha’s motion in’t,
3215 As we are mock’d with Art.

Paul.

Ile draw the Curtaine:
My Lord’s almost so farre transported, that
Hee’le thinke anon it liues.

Leo.

Oh sweet Paulina,
3220 Make me to thinke so twentie yeeres together:
No setled Sences of the World can match
The pleasure of that madnesse. Let’t alone.

Paul.

I am sorry (Sir) I haue thus farre stir’d you: but
I could afflict you farther.

Leo.

3225 Doe Paulina:
For this Affliction ha’s a taste as sweet
As any Cordiall comfort. Still me thinks
There is an ayre comes from her. What fine Chizzell
Could euer yet cut breath? Let no man mock me,
3230 For I will kisse her.

Paul.

Good my Lord, forbeare:
The ruddinesse vpon her Lippe, is wet:
You’le marre it, if you kisse it; stayne your owne
With Oyly Painting: shall I draw the Curtaine.

Leo.

3235No: not these twentie yeeres.

Perd.

So long could I
Stand‑by, a looker‑on.

Paul.

Either forbeare,
Quit presently the Chappell, or resolue you
3240 For more amazement: if you can behold it,
Ile make the Statue moue indeed; descend,
And take you by the hand: but then you’le thinke
(Which I protest against) I am assisted
By wicked Powers.

Leo.

3245 What you can make her doe,
I am content to looke on: what to speake,
I am content to heare: for 'tis as easie
To make her speake, as moue.

Paul.

It is requir’d
3250 You doe awake your Faith: then, all stand still:
On: those that thinke it is vnlawfull Businesse
I am about, let them depart.

Leo.

Proceed:
No foot shall stire.

Paul.

3255 Musick; awake her: Strike:
'Tis time: descend: be Stone no more: approach:
Strike all that looke vpon with meruaile: Come:
Ile fill your Graue vp: stirre: nay, come away:
Bequeath to Death your numnesse: (for from him,
3260 Deare Life redeemes you) you perceiue she stirres:
Start not: her Actions shall be holy, as
You heare my Spell is lawfull: doe not shun her,
Vntill you see her dye againe; for then
You kill her double: Nay, present your Hand:
3265 When she was young, you woo’d her: now, in age,
Is she become the Suitor?

Leo.

Oh, she’s warme:
If this be Magick, let it be an Art
Law— [p. 303] The Winters Tale.
Lawfull as Eating.

Pol.

3270She embraces him.

Cam.

She hangs about his necke,
If she pertaine to life, let her speake too.

Pol.

I, and make it manifest where she ha’s liu’d,
Or how stolne from the dead?

Paul.

3275 That she is liuing,
Were it but told you, should be hooted at
Like an old Tale: but it appeares she liues,
Though yet she speake not. Marke a little while:
Please you to interpose (faire Madam) kneele,
3280 And pray your Mothers blessing: turne good Lady,
Our Perdita is found.

Her.

You Gods looke downe,
And from your sacred Viols poure your graces
Vpon my daughters head: Tell me (mine owne)
3285 Where hast thou bin preseru’d? Where liu’d? How found
Thy Fathers Court? For thou shalt heare that I
Knowing by Paulina, that the Oracle
Gaue hope thou wast in being, haue preseru’d
My selfe, to see the yssue.

Paul.

3290 There’s time enough for that,
Least they desire (vpon this push) to trouble
Your ioyes, with like Relation. Go together
You precious winners all: your exultation
Partake to euery one: I (an old Turtle)
3295 Will wing me to some wither’d bough, and there
My Mate (that’s neuer to be found againe)
Lament, till I am lost.

Leo.

O peace Paulina:
Thou shouldst a husband take by my consent,
3300 As I by thine a Wife. This is a Match,
And made betweene’s by Vowes. Thou hast found mine,
But how, is to be question’d: for I saw her
(As I thought) dead: and haue (in vaine) said many
A prayer vpon her graue. Ile not seeke farre
3305 (For him, I partly know his minde) to finde thee
An honourable husband. Come Camillo,
And take her by the hand: whose worth, and honesty
Is richly noted: and heere iustified
By Vs, a paire of Kings. Let’s from this place.
3310 What? looke vpon my Brother: both your pardons,
That ere I put betweene your holy looks
My ill suspition: This your Son‑in‑law,
And Sonne vnto the King, whom heauens directing
Is troth‑plight to your daughter. Good Paulina,
3315 Leade vs from hence, where we may leisurely
Each one demand, and answere to his part
Perform’d in this wide gap of Time, since first
We were disseuer’d: Hastily lead away.
Exeunt.

The Names of the Actors.

  • LEontes, King of Sicillia.
  • Mamillus, yong Prince of Sicillia.
    • Camillo.}
    • Antigonus.
    • Cleomines.
    • Dion.
    Foure Lords of Sicillia.
  • Hermione, Queene to Leontes.
  • Perdita, Daughter to Leontes and Hermione.
  • Paulina, wife to Antigonus.
  • Emilia, a Lady.
  • Polixenes, King of Bohemia.
  • Florizell, Prince of Bohemia.
  • Old Shepheard, reputed Father of Perdita.
  • Clowne, his Sonne.
  • Autolicus, a Rogue.
  • Archidamus, a Lord of Bohemia.
  • Other Lords, and Gentlemen, and Seruants.
  • Shepheards, and Shephearddesses.

FINIS.