Act I, Scene 4

This scene opens in Windsor Castle in London almost immediately after the previous scene. Richard assesses the feelings of Aumerle, the Duke of York's son, and asks him about his parting words with Bolingbroke. Richard observes that Aumerle had accompanied Bolingbroke for a long distance. Aumerle replies bluntly that he had only accompanied him to the next highway. Aumerle says that he had not shed any genuine parting tears, and the few that did appear on his face were due to the stinging northeast wind. He further tells Richard that the only word exchanged at the parting was "farewell" and that he did not say anything, since his heart forbade him to fake a fond farewell. Aumerle's dislike of Bolingbroke emerges clearly throughout this dialogue, and Richard can be sure of his loyalty.

Richard cautiously admonishes Aumerle not to appear unfeeling, gently reminding him that after all, Bolingbroke is their cousin. Then, changing the subject, Richard says that he has been informed by Bushy, Bagot and Green that Bolingbroke enjoys great popularity among the common people. Richard reflects that the ease with which Bolingbroke thanked the common people for their concern made it seem as if "our England (were) in reversion his / And he our subjects' next degree in hope."

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