_Enter_ KING, _frowning on them; takes his seat_. _Gar._ Dread sovereign, how much are we bound to heaven[830] In daily thanks, that gave us such a prince, 115 Not only good and wise, but most religious: One that, in all obedience, makes the church The chief aim of his honour; and, to strengthen That holy duty, out of dear respect,[831] His royal self in judgement comes to hear 120 The cause betwixt her and this great offender. _King._ You were ever good at sudden commendations,[832] Bishop of Winchester. But know, I come not To hear such flattery now, and in my presence[833][834] They are too thin and bare to hide offences.[834][835] 125 To me you cannot reach you play the spaniel,[836] And think with wagging of your tongue to win me; But, whatsoe'er thou takest me for, I'm sure Thou hast a cruel nature and a bloody. [_To Cranmer_] Good man, sit down. Now let me see the proudest[837][838] 130 He, that dares most, but wag his finger at thee:[837] By all that's holy, he had better starve Than but once think this place becomes thee not.[839] _Sur._ May it please your grace,-- _King._ No, sir, it does not please me. I had thought I had had men of some understanding[840] 135 And wisdom of my council; but I find none. Was it discretion, lords, to let this man, This good man,--few of you deserve that title,-- This honest man, wait like a lousy footboy At chamber-door? and one as great as you are? 140 Why, what a shame was this! Did my commission Bid ye so far forget yourselves? I gave ye Power as he was a councillor to try him, Not as a groom: there's some of ye, I see, More out of malice than integrity, 145 Would try him to the utmost, had ye mean:[841] Which ye shall never have while I live. _Chan._ Thus far,[842] My most dread sovereign, may it like your grace To let my tongue excuse all. What was purposed Concerning his imprisonment, was rather, 150 If there be faith in men, meant for his trial And fair purgation to the world, than malice, I'm sure, in me. _King._ Well, well, my lords, respect him; Take him and use him well; he's worthy of it. I will say thus much for him, if a prince 155 May be beholding to a subject, I[843] Am, for his love and service, so to him. Make me no more ado, but all embrace him:[844] Be friends, for shame, my lords! My Lord of Canterbury, I have a suit which you must not deny me; 160 That is, a fair young maid that yet wants baptism;[845] You must be godfather, and answer for her.