Page 1946 - Shakespeare - Vol. 1

DUKE

So I believe; but Thurio thinks not so.
Proteus, the good conceit I hold of thee -
For thou hast shown some sign of good desert -
Makes me the better to confer with thee.

PROT EUS

Longer than I prove loyal to your grace [20]
Let me not live to look upon your grace.

DUKE

Thou knowest how willingly I would effect
The match between Sir Thurio and my daughter?

PROT EUS

I do, my lord.

DUKE

And also, I think, thou art not ignorant [25]
How she opposes her against my will?

PROT EUS

She did, my lord, when Valentine was here.

DUKE

Ay, and perversely she persevers so.
What might we do to make the girl forget
The love of Valentine, and love Sir Thurio? [30]

PROT EUS

The best way is to slander Valentine,
With falsehood, cowardice, and poor descent -
Three things that women highly hold in hate.

DUKE

Ay, but she’ll think that it is spoke in hate.

PROT EUS

Ay, if his enemy deliver it; [35]
Therefore it must with circumstance be spoken