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King Lear, I. i

I find she names my very deed of love; 73
Only she comes too short: that I profess
Myself an enemy to all other joys
Which the most precious square of sense possesses 76
And find I am alone felicitate
In your dear highness' love.

Cor. [Aside.] Then, poor Cordelia!
And yet not so; since, I am sure, my love 's
More richer than my tongue. 80

Lear. To thee and thine, hereditary ever,
Remain this ample third of our fair kingdom,
No less in space, validity, and pleasure,
Than that conferr'd on Goneril. Now, our joy, 84
Although our last, not least; to whose young love
The vines of France and milk of Burgundy
Strive to be interess'd; what can you say to draw
A third more opulent than your sisters? Speak.

Cor. Nothing, my lord. 89

Lear. Nothing?

Cor. Nothing.

Lear. Nothing will come of nothing: speak again. 92

Cor. Unhappy that I am, I cannot heave
My heart into my mouth: I love your majesty
According to my bond; nor more nor less.

Lear. How, how, Cordelia! mend your speech a little, 96
Lest you may mar your fortunes.

Cor. Good my lord,
You have begot me, bred me, lov'd me: I
Return those duties back as are right fit,
Obey you, love you, and most honour you. 100

76 square; cf. n.
77 felicitate: made happy
83 validity: value
86 milk: pasture land
87 interess'd: given a share
95 bond: obligation of duty