Edm. The enemy's in view: draw up your powers.[4577]
Here is the guess of their true strength and forces[4578]
By diligent discovery; but your haste[4579][4580]
Is now urged on you.[4579]
Alb. We will greet the time. [Exit.[4581]
Edm. To both these sisters have I sworn my love;[4582] 55
Each jealous of the other, as the stung[4583][4584]
Are of the adder. Which of them shall I take?[4583]
Both? one? or neither? Neither can be enjoy'd,[4583][4585]
If both remain alive: to take the widow
Exasperates, makes mad her sister Goneril; 60
And hardly shall I carry out my side,[4586]
Her husband being alive. Now then we'll use
His countenance for the battle; which being done,
Let her who would be rid of him devise[4587]
His speedy taking off. As for the mercy[4588] 65
Which he intends to Lear and to Cordelia,[4589]
The battle done, and they within our power,
Shall never see his pardon; for my state[4590]
Stands on me to defend, not to debate. [Exit.
Scene II. A field between the two camps.
Alarum within. Enter, with drum and colours, Lear, Cordelia, and Soldiers, over the stage; and exeunt.
Enter Edgar and Gloucester.[4591]
Edg. Here, father, take the shadow of this tree[4592]
For your good host; pray that the right may thrive:
If ever I return to you again,[4593]
I'll bring you comfort.[4593]
Glou. Grace go with you, sir! [Exit Edgar.
Alarum and retreat within. Re-enter Edgar.[4594]