Rich. [Read] Myne enemyes have labord much, but my worst afflyctyon is thy lamented absence which may endanger us alyke. There is no means to prevent all evyls but the injoyinge of my sister Gabriella: therefore force in thy selfe an affectyon. She may otherwise growe discontent and trooble us with her mallyce. Therefore preserve thy selfe and me together, who am thy best on earthe: Ganelon.
Thys letter sente me by my dearest frende
Like spells and witchcraft dothe amaze my brayne.
He urdges me to love where a dothe knowe
I can by no meanes fancye; yet tys so,
Our safties doe compell it, & to that
I must of force bowe, teachinge my harde harte
To seme most softe when tys most hard[e]ned.
Enter Turpin.
Tur. Where is pryncelye Richard?
Ric. Here, reverend lorde.
Tur. The kynge comands your presence, O deare Sir, I am orejoyd in your most brave advauncments. Why, you are now the fayrest stare[94] in Fraunce.
Rich. I doe not understand your reverence.
Tur. The emperour will make my meanyng playne. … … … day Cunstable of Fraunce, Countye Poyteirs, marquysse of Sallun, And grand le seignior of the ordnance.
Ric. Theise are the dignities of noble Ganelon!
Tur. But these shall all be Richards.