with little justification, for a bit of worthless land. He then berates himself that with so much justification to act, he himself has taken no revenge. Act IV, Scene V - Gertrude has been told that Ophelia is talking incoherently and her words are making people suspicious about Polonius's death. She agrees to see the girl. Ophelia comes in singing snatches of song interspersed with a few words that make sense. She is oblivious of her surroundings. Claudius, realizing Ophelia's mental state, asks Horatio to follow her and watch out for her. Claudius then recites to Gertrude all the woes that have befallen their kingdom - Polonius's death, Hamlet's hasty departure, and Ophelia's madness. Laertes has returned to Denmark, convinced that Claudius is responsible for his father's death. After a commotion outside the door, Laertes comes in. He addresses Claudius as "vile king," asks where and how his father died, and vows revenge. While Claudius tries to calm him and assures him that he had no part in Polonius's death, Ophelia comes in. Laertes realizes that she is mad. Claudius sympathizes with him for his two sorrows, says again that he had nothing to do with Polonius's death, and promises him revenge on the guilty one. Act IV, Scene VI - Horatio receives a letter from Hamlet in which he describes a pirate attack on his ship and being captured. He tells Horatio that the pirates have brought him back to Denmark and asks Horatio to come to him. Act IV, Scene VII - Claudius has convinced Laertes that Hamlet killed Polonius and intended to kill Claudius himself. A note arrives from Hamlet, announcing his return. Laertes wants to take immediate revenge, but Claudius says there is a way he can have his revenge, yet make Hamlet's death seem accidental. Claudius's scheme involves a fencing match with Hamlet, for which Laertes will use an unblunted sword with a poisoned tip. Gertrude comes in with 'the sad news that Ophelia is drowned. Laertes leave...
