Because that, like a jack, thou keep'st the stroke
Betwixt thy begging and my meditation.
I am not in the giving vein today.
RICHARD
Because you're like the lowborn fellow who strikes the bell—you keep interrupting my thoughts. I am not in the giving mood today.
BUCKINGHAM
120
Why then, resolve me whether you will or no.
BUCKINGHAM
Well, then, let me know whether you will give me the earldom some other time.
RICHARD
Thou troublest me; I am not in the vein.
RICHARD
You're bothering me. I'm not in the mood.
Exeunt all but BUCKINGHAM
Everyone except BUCKINGHAM exits.
BUCKINGHAM
And is it thus? Repays he my deep service
With such deep contempt? Made I him king for this?
O, let me think on Hastings and be gone
125
To Brecknock, while my fearful head is on!
BUCKINGHAM
Is this really happening? Does he reward my dedicated service with such deep contempt? Did I work to make him king for this? Oh, let me remember what happened to Hastings and hurry to Brecknock
while I still have my head on my shoulders!
