I am a most poor woman, and a stranger, Born out of your dominions; having here No judge indifferent, nor no more assurance Of equal friendship and proceeding. Alas, sir, In what have I offended you? what cause Hath my behaviour given to your displeasure, That thus you should proceed to put me off, And take your good grace from me? Heaven witness, I have been to you a true and humble wife, At all times to your will conformable, Ever in fear to kindle your dislike, Yea, subject to your countenance, glad or sorry As I saw it inclined: when was the hour I ever contradicted your desire, Or made it not mine too? Or which of your friends Have I not strove to love, although I knew That I have been your wife, in this obedience, Upward of twenty years, and have been blest The king, your father, was reputed for My father, king of Spain, was reckon'd one The wisest prince that there had reign'd by many A year before it is not to be question'd That they had gather'd a wise council to them : Of every realm, that did debate this business, Who deem'd our marriage lawful wherefore I humbly Beseech you, sir, to spare me, till I may Be by my friends in Spain advised, whose counsel I will implore: if not, i' the name of God, Your pleasure be fulfill'd! Wol. You have here, lady, And of your choice, these reverend fathers; men Of singular integrity and learning, Yea, the elect o' the land, who are assembled To plead your cause it shall be therefore bootless That longer you desire the court, as well For your own quiet, as to rectify What is unsettled in the king. Cam. His grace Hath spoken well and justly therefore, madam, It 's fit this royal session do proceed, And that without delay their arguments Be now produced and heard. I am about to weep; but, thinking that certain The daughter of a king, my drops of tears I'll turn to sparks of fire. Wol. Be patient yet. Q. Kath. I will, when you are humble; nay, before, Or God will punish me. I do believe, You shall not be my judge: for it is you me; Which God's dew quench! Therefore I say again, I utterly abhor, yea, from my soul Refuse you for my judge; whom, yet once more, I hold my most malicious foe, and think not At all a friend to truth. Wol. I do profess You speak not like yourself; who ever yet Have stood to charity and display'd the effects Of disposition gentle, and of wisdom O'ertopping woman's power. Madam, you do me wrong: I have no spleen against you, nor injustice |