Note 66 — THE CASTLE OF ARUNDEL, (continued 2)

Shakspeare, in his Richard the Third, has introduced this incident into the opening scene of the battle.

Norfolk. This found I in my tent this morning. {Giving a scroll.

Richard. [reads] “Jocky of Norfolk, be not too bold, For Dickon, thy master, is bought and sold.” A thing devised by the enemy. Then dismissing them, continues: Go, gentlemen—every man unto his charge, Let not our babbling dreams affright our souls; Conscience is but a word that cowards use, Devised at first to keep the strong in awe; Our strong arms be our conscience, swords our law. King Richard III. act v. sc. 3.