His answer was, 'The worse:' of Gloucester's treachery,
And of the loyal service of his son,
When I inform'd him, then he call'd me sot, 8
And told me I had turn'd the wrong side out:
What most he should dislike seems pleasant to him;
What like, offensive.
Gon. [To Edmund.] Then, shall you go no further.
It is the cowish terror of his spirit 12
That dares not undertake; he'll not feel wrongs
Which tie him to an answer. Our wishes on the way
May prove effects. Back, Edmund, to my brother;
Hasten his musters and conduct his powers: 16
I must change arms at home, and give the distaff
Into my husband's hands. This trusty servant
Shall pass between us; ere long you are like to hear,
If you dare venture in your own behalf, 20
A mistress's command. Wear this; spare speech;
[Giving a favour.]
Decline your head: this kiss, if it durst speak,
Would stretch thy spirits up into the air.
Conceive, and fare thee well. 24
Edm. Yours in the ranks of death. Exit.
Gon. My most dear Gloucester!
O! the difference of man and man!
To thee a woman's services are due:
My fool usurps my bed.
Osw. Madam, here comes my lord. [Exit.]
Enter Albany.
Gon. I have been worth the whistle.
Alb. O Goneril! 29
You are not worth the dust which the rude wind
12 cowish: easily cowed
14 tie him to: require
29 worth the whistle; cf. n.
