Act 4 — Scene V. Gloucester's castle.

Reg. But are my brother's powers set forth?[4205] Osw. Ay, madam.[4205] Reg. Himself in person there?[4205][4206] Osw. Madam, with much ado:[4207] Your sister is the better soldier.[4207][4208] Reg. Lord Edmund spake not with your lord at home?[4209] Osw. No, madam. 5 Reg. What might import my sister's letter to him?[4210] Osw. I know not, lady. Reg. Faith, he is posted hence on serious matter.[4211] It was great ignorance, Gloucester's eyes being out, To let him live: where he arrives he moves 10 All hearts against us: Edmund, I think, is gone,[4212] In pity of his misery, to dispatch[4213] His nighted life; moreover, to descry[4213] The strength o' the enemy.[4213][4214] Osw. I must needs after him, madam, with my letter.[4215] 15 Reg. Our troops set forth to-morrow: stay with us;[4216] The ways are dangerous. Osw. I may not, madam:[4217] My lady charged my duty in this business.[4217] Reg. Why should she write to Edmund? Might not you[4218] Transport her purposes by word? Belike,[4218][4219] 20 Something—I know not what: I'll love thee much,[4220] Let me unseal the letter. Osw. Madam, I had rather—[4221] Reg. I know your lady does not love her husband; I am sure of that: and at her late being here[4222] She gave strange œillades and most speaking looks[4223] 25 To noble Edmund. I know you are of her bosom.[4224] Osw. I, madam?[4225] Reg. I speak in understanding: you are; I know't:[4226] Therefore I do advise you, take this note:[4227] My lord is dead; Edmund and I have talk'd; 30 And more convenient is he for my hand Than for your lady's: you may gather more.[4228] If you do find him, pray you, give him this;[4229] And when your mistress hears thus much from you, I pray, desire her call her wisdom to her. 35 So, fare you well.[4230] If you do chance to hear of that blind traitor, Preferment falls on him that cuts him off. Osw. Would I could meet him, madam! I should show[4231] What party I do follow. Reg. Fare thee well. [Exeunt.[4232] 40