[IVc.7] Minding true things] To mind is the same as to call to remembrance.
Act IV
[IV.1] ——popular] i.e., one of the people.
[IV.2] ——you are a better than the king.] i.e., a better man than the king.
[IV.3] The king’s a bawcock,] A burlesque term of endearment, supposed to be derived from beau coq.
[IV.4] ——an imp of fame;] An imp is a young shoot, but means a son in Shakespeare. In this sense the word has become obsolete, and is now only understood as a small or inferior devil.
In Holingshed, p. 951, the last words of Lord Cromwell are preserved, who says:— “——and after him, that his son Prince Edward, that goodly imp, may long reign over you.”]
[IV.5] It sorts] i.e., it agrees.
[IV.6] ——speak lower.] Shakespeare has here, as usual, followed Holinshead: “Order was taken by commandement from the king, after the army was first set in battle array, that no noise or clamor should be made in the host.”
[IV.7] ——conditions:] i.e., qualities. The meaning is, that objects are represented by his senses to him, as to other men by theirs. What is danger to another is danger likewise to him; and, when he feels fear, it is like the fear of meaner mortals. —Johnson.