No Fear Shakespeare
King Lear
Get this No Fear to go!
Act 1, Scene 2, Page 7
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EDGAR
Some villain hath done me wrong.
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EDGAR
Some villain has told lies about me.
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EDMUND
That’s my fear. I pray you, have a continent forbearance till
the speed of his rage goes slower. And as I say, retire with
me to my lodging, from whence I will fitly bring you to hear
my lord speak. Pray ye, go. There’s my key. If you do stir
abroad, go armed.
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EDMUND
That’s what I’m afraid of. I suggest you lay low until his rage cools a little. In the meantime, come home with me, and when the time is right I’ll take you to talk to him. Please go. Here’s my key. If you go outside, arm yourself.
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EDGAR
Armed, brother?
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EDGAR
Arm myself?
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EDMUND
Brother, I advise you to the best. Go armed. I am no honest
man if there be any good meaning towards you. I have told
you what I have seen and heard—but faintly, nothing like
the image and horror of it. Pray you, away.
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EDMUND
Brother, I’m giving you good advice. Arm yourself. I’d be a liar if I told you nobody wanted to hurt you. I’ve told you what I’ve seen and heard, but I’ve toned it down a lot. I’ve spared you you the full extent of the horror that threatens you. Now please go.
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EDGAR
Shall I hear from you anon?
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EDGAR
Will I hear from you soon?
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EDMUND
I do serve you in this business.
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EDMUND
I’ll help you through this business.
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Exit EDGAR
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EDGAR exits. |
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A credulous father, and a brother noble—
Whose nature is so far from doing harms
That he suspects none, on whose foolish honesty
My practices ride easy. I see the business.
Let me, if not by birth, have lands by wit.
All with me’s meet that I can fashion fit.
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A gullible father and a brother who’s so innocent that he can’t suspect anyone else of wanting to hurt him—these are the two fools I need for my plan to work. I know exactly how to proceed. If I can’t have an estate by birthright, then I’ll get it by being clever. Any trick that works is good for me.
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Exit |
He exits. |
