Act 4, Scene 1 Summary

Hotspur, Worcester and Douglas are in the rebel camp near Shrewsbury. Hotspur is praising Douglas and says that he holds him in high esteem, even though this truth may sound like flattery. Douglas, in return, compliments Hotspur's honor.

A messenger enters with news from Hotspur's father, Northumberland. Northumberland writes that he has been taken ill and cannot assist in their rebellion. This is bad news for the rebels, but as King Henry knows of their plans, they have no choice but to go on with the battle anyway.

Worcester is concerned that people will take Northumberland's to mean that he does not support the rebellion, and it will harm their cause. Hotspur takes the opposite side, thinking that the increased odds against them will make their cause seem the more valiant.

Sir Richard Vernon enters with news that Westmoreland and John...