I.iv.22 (178,5) The pith and marrow of our attribute] The best and most valuable part of the praise that would be otherwise attributed to us.
I.iv.32 (178,7) fortune's scar] In the old quarto of 1637, it is
—fortune's star:
But I think scar is proper.
I.iv.34 (178,8) As infinite as man may undergo] As large as can be accumulated upon man.
I.iv.39-57 (179,2) Angels and ministers of grace defend us!] Hamlet's speech to the apparition of his father seems to me to consist of three parts. When first he sees the spectre, he fortifies himself with an invocation.
Angel and ministers of grace defend us!
As the spectre approaches, he deliberates with himself, and determines, that whatever it be he will venture to address it.
Be thou a spirit of health, or goblin damn'd,
Bring with thee airs from heaven, or blasts from hell,