Lest in our need he might infect another,
And make him of like spirit to himself.
If any such be here, as God forbid!48
Let him depart before we need his help.
Oxf. Women and children of so high a courage,
And warriors faint! why, 'twere perpetual shame.
O brave young prince! thy famous grandfather52
Doth live again in thee: long mayst thou live
To bear his image and renew his glories!
Som. And he, that will not fight for such a hope,
Go home to bed, and, like the owl by day,56
If he arise, be mock'd and wonder'd at.
Queen. Thanks, gentle Somerset: sweet Oxford, thanks.
Prince. And take his thanks that yet hath nothing else.
Enter a Messenger.
Mess. Prepare you, lords, for Edward is at hand,60
Ready to fight; therefore be resolute.
Oxf. I thought no less: it is his policy
To haste thus fast, to find us unprovided.
Som. But he's deceiv'd; we are in readiness.64
Queen. This cheers my heart to see your forwardness.
Oxf. Here pitch our battle; hence we will not budge.
Flourish, and march. Enter Edward, Richard, Clarence, and Soldiers.
K. Edw. Brave followers, yonder stands the thorny wood,67
Which, by the heavens' assistance and your strength,
Must by the roots be hewn up yet ere night.
I need not add more fuel to your fire,
63 unprovided: unprepared
