ABSTRACT
Near the end of the first act of Shakespeare’s Richard II, King Richard has just banished Mowbray and Bolingbroke, consigning what will become the greatest threat to his rule outside his realm and therefore beyond his control. Now his flatterer Green announces what is evidently old business to the king but new business to the audience: Now for the rebels which stand out in Ireland. Expedient manage must be made, my liege, Ere further leisure yield them further means For their advantage and your highness’ loss. (1.4.37–40) 1
