The thought of which I was in quest is a very Antony, is treacherous and
fugitive, and has irrevocably left me,
_And I am all forgotten._
If this reading stand, I think the explanation of Hanmer must be
received, (see 1765, VII, 122, 6)
I.iv.3 (127,9) One great competitor] Perhaps, _Our_ great competitor.
I.iv.12 (128,1) as the spots of heaven,/More fiery by night's blackness]
If by spots are meant stars, as night has no other fiery spots, the
comparison is forced and harsh, stars having been always supposed to
beautify the night; nor do I comprehend what there is in the
counter-part of this simile, which answers to night's blackness. Hanmer
reads,
--_spots_ on ermine
Or fires, _by night's blackness_.
I.iv.14 (128,2) purchas'd] Procured by his own fault or endeavour.
I.iv.21 (128,3) say, this becomes him, (As his composure must be rare,
indeed, Whom these things cannot blemish] This seems inconsequent. I
read
_And his composure_, &c.
_Grant that this becomes him_, and _if it can become him, he must
have in him something very uncommon_; yet, _&c._
I.iv.25 (128,4) So great weight in his lightness] The word _light_ it
one of Shakespeare's favourite play-things. The sense is, His trifling
levity throws so much burden upon us.
I.iv.25 (129,5)
If he fill'd
His vacancy with his voluptuousness,
Full surfeits, and the dryness of his bones,
Call on him for't]
_Call on him_, is, _visit him_.
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