Page 2792 - Shakespeare - Vol. 2

In rank Achilles must or now be cropped
Or, shedding, breed a nursery of like evil
To overbulk us all.

NESTOR
Well, and how? [320]

ULYSSES
This challenge that the gallant Hector sends,

However it is spread in general name,
Relates in purpose only to Achilles.

NESTOR
True. The purpose in perspicuous even as substance
Whose grossness little characters sum up; [325]

And in the pubblication make no strain
But that Achilles, were his brain as barren
As banks of Libya − though, Apollo knows,
’Tis dry enough − will with great speed of judgement,
Ay, with celerity, find Hector’s purpose [330]

Pointing on him.

ULYSSES
And wake him to the answer, think you?

NESTOR
Yes,
It is most meet. Who may you else oppose,

That can from Hector bring his honour off,
If not Achilles? Though’t be a sportful combat, [335]
Yet in this trial much opinion dwells;
For here the Trojans taste our dear’st repute
With their fin’st palate; and trust to me, Ulysses,

Our imputation shall be oddly poised
In this willed action; for the success, [340]
Although particular, shall give a scantling

Of good or bad unto the general,