Chapter XXX: Prologue

Not out of confidence that none but we[892]
Are able to present this tragedy,
Not out of envy at the grace of late
It did receive, nor yet to derogate
From their deserts who[893] give out boldly that 5
They move with equal feet on the same flat;
Neither for all nor any of such ends
We offer it, gracious and noble friends,
To your review; we, far from emulation
And (charitably judge) from imitation, 10
With this work entertain you, a piece known
And still believ’d in Court to be our own.
To quit our claim, doubting our right or merit,
Would argue in us poverty of spirit
Which we must not subscribe to. Field[894] is gone, 15
Whose action first did give it name, and one[895]
Who came the nearest to him, is denied
By his gray beard to show the height and pride
Of D’Ambois’ youth and bravery; yet to hold
Our title still a-foot, and not grow cold 20
By giving it o’er, a third man[896] with his best
Of care and pains defends our interest;
As Richard[897] he was lik’d, nor do we fear
In personating D’Ambois he’ll appear
To faint, or go less, so[898] your free consent, 25
As heretofore, give him encouragement.