Act V, Scene 3 (cont.): Conscience Is a Word Cowards Use — Richard III

Norfolk answers Richard's what think'st thou with a note found on his tent: Jockey of Norfolk, be not so bold, for Dickon thy master is bought and sold. Richard calls it enemy device, tells dreams not affright souls, and declares conscience a word cowards use while strong arms be conscience and swords law. If not to heaven, then hand in hand to hell. He rouses troops against vagabonds and a milk-sop Richmond who never felt cold over shoes in snow.

Drums sound. Stanley's messenger says he doth deny to come. Richard orders off with George's head. Norfolk says the enemy is past the marsh and asks to let George Stanley die after the battle. Richard claims a thousand hearts within his bosom, advances standards, and calls Saint George and fiery dragons as victory sits on their helps.

Alarums run. Catesby cries rescue Norfolk: the king enacts more wonders than a man, daring an opposite to every danger, his horse slain, all on foot fighting and seeking Richmond in the throat of death, or else the day is lost. More alarums. Enter Richard.