Edw. What, Gaveston! welcome.—Kiss not my hand— Embrace me, Gaveston, as I do thee.140 Why should'st thou kneel? know'st thou not who I am? Thy friend, thyself, another Gaveston! Not Hylas was more mourned of [178] Hercules, Than thou hast been of me since thy exile.
Gav. And since I went from hence, no soul in hell Hath felt more torment than poor Gaveston.
Edw. I know it.—Brother, welcome home my friend. Now let the treacherous Mortimers conspire, And that high-minded Earl of Lancaster: I have my wish, in that I joy thy sight;150 And sooner shall the sea o'erwhelm my land, Than bear the ship that shall transport thee hence. I here create thee Lord High Chamberlain, Chief Secretary to the state and me, Earl of Cornwall, King and Lord of Man.
Gav. My lord, these titles far exceed my worth.
Kent. Brother, the least of these may well suffice For one of greater birth than Gaveston.
Edw. Cease, brother: for I cannot brook these words. Thy worth, sweet friend, is far above my gifts,160 Therefore, to equal it, receive my heart; If for these dignities thou be envied, I'll give thee more; for, but to honour thee, Is Edward pleased with kingly regiment. [179] Fear'st thou thy person? thou shalt have a guard. Wantest thou gold? go to my treasury. Wouldst thou be loved and feared? receive my seal; Save or condemn, and in our name command Whatso thy mind affects, or fancy likes.
Gav. It shall suffice me to enjoy your love,170 Which whiles I have, I think myself as great As Cæsar riding in the Roman street, With captive kings at his triumphant car.
Enter the Bishop of Coventry.
Edw. Whither goes my lord of Coventry so fast?
Bish. To celebrate your father's exequies. But is that wicked Gaveston returned?