William Shakespeare: The Tragedy of King Lear

ACT V. 1. Scene I. The Camp of the British Forces near Dover. (continued)

Reg.
Why is this reason'd?

Gon.
Combine together 'gainst the enemy;
For these domestic and particular broils
Are not the question here.

Alb.
Let's, then, determine
With the ancient of war on our proceeding.

Edm.
I shall attend you presently at your tent.

Reg.
Sister, you'll go with us?

Gon.
No.

Reg.
'Tis most convenient; pray you, go with us.

Gon.
[Aside.] O, ho, I know the riddle.--I will go.

[As they are going out, enter Edgar disguised.]

Edg.
If e'er your grace had speech with man so poor,
Hear me one word.

Alb.
I'll overtake you.--Speak.

[Exeunt Edmund, Regan, Goneril, Officers, Soldiers, and
Attendants.]

Edg.
Before you fight the battle, ope this letter.
If you have victory, let the trumpet sound
For him that brought it: wretched though I seem,
I can produce a champion that will prove
What is avouched there. If you miscarry,
Your business of the world hath so an end,
And machination ceases. Fortune love you!

Alb.
Stay till I have read the letter.

Edg.
I was forbid it.
When time shall serve, let but the herald cry,
And I'll appear again.

Alb.
Why, fare thee well: I will o'erlook thy paper.

[Exit Edgar.]

[Re-enter Edmund.]

Edm.
The enemy's in view; draw up your powers.
Here is the guess of their true strength and forces
By diligent discovery;--but your haste
Is now urg'd on you.