Page 2905 - Shakespeare - Vol. 2

Than spotted livers in the sacrifice.

ANDROMACHE
O, be persuaded! Do not count it holy
To hurt by being just; it is as lawful, [20]
For we would give much, to use violent thefts,
And rob in the behalf of charity.

CASSANDRA
It is the purpose that makes strong the vow;
But vows to every purpose must not hold.
Unarm, sweet Hector.

HECTOR
Hold you still, I say; [25]

Mine honour keeps the weather of my fate.
Life every man holds dear, but the dear man
Holds honour far more precious-dear than life.

Enter Troilus.
How now, young man, mean’st thou to fight today?

ANDROMACHE

Cassandra, call my father to persuade. [30]
Exit Cassandra.

HECTOR
No, faith, young Troilus; doff thy harness, youth.
I am today i’the vein of chivalry.
Let grow thy sinews till their knots be strong,

And tempt not yet the brushes of the war.
Unarm thee, go; and doubt thou not, brave boy, [35]
I’ll stand today for thee, and me, and Troy.

TROILUS
Brother, you have a vice of mercy in you,

Which better fits a lion than a man.