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Shakespeare plays KATHERINE on stage

A view of the stage, with a sign telling us that we are in a chamber in Katherine's palace; lighted candles indicate that it is night, and there is a low divan in the middle. Shakespeare is centre-stage, performing as Katherine dressed in medieval style, raising himself on one elbow from the divan and reaching out despairingly. Two other actors, playing a lord and a maid, stand behind him looking on in consternation

[The vision vanishes]

KATHERINE Spirits of peace, where are ye? Are you all gone,
And leave me here in wretchedness, behind ye?

GRIFFITH Madam, we are here.

KATHERINE Saw you not even now a blessed troop
Invite me to a banquet, whose bright faces
Cast thousand beams upon me, like the sun?
They promised me eternal happiness,
And brought me garlands, Griffith, which I feel
I am not worthy yet to wear. I shall assuredly.

Henry VII, Act 4 Scene 2

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