Gon. Let your study
Be to content your lord, who hath receiv'd you
At fortune's alms; you have obedience scanted,
And well are worth the want that you have wanted. 282
Cor. Time shall unfold what plighted cunning hides;
Who covers faults, at last shame them derides.
Well may you prosper!
France. Come, my fair Cordelia.
Exit France and Cordelia.
Gon. Sister, it is not little I have to say of
what most nearly appertains to us both. I think
our father will hence to-night. 288
Reg. That's most certain, and with you;
next month with us.
Gon. You see how full of changes his age is;
the observation we have made of it hath not
been little: he always loved our sister most; and
with what poor judgment he hath now cast her
off appears too grossly.
Reg. 'Tis the infirmity of his age; yet he
hath ever but slenderly known himself. 297
Gon. The best and soundest of his time hath
been but rash; then, must we look to receive
from his age, not alone the imperfections of
long-engraffed condition, but, therewithal the
unruly waywardness that infirm and choleric
years bring with them. 303
Reg. Such unconstant starts are we like to
have from him as this of Kent's banishment.
Gon. There is further compliment of leave-
taking between France and him. Pray you, let
282 want; cf. n.
283 plighted: folded
295 grossly: obviously
298 time: years
301 engrafted condition: implanted temperament
304 starts: fits of temper
306 compliment of: ceremonious
