No More Learning

In such a cause
I am the veriest coward. O pity me!

Pol. (greatly softened. ) Alas! --I do--indeed I pity thee.

Cas. And Lalage-

Pol. Scoundrel! --arise and die!

Cas. It needeth not be--thus--thus--O let me die
Thus on my bended knee. It were most fitting
That in this deep humiliation I perish.
For in the fight I will not raise a hand
Against thee, Earl of Leicester. Strike thou home--

(baring his bosom.
)
Here is no let or hindrance to thy weapon-
Strike home. I will not fight thee.

Pol. Now, s' Death and Hell!
Am I not--am I not sorely--grievously tempted
To take thee at thy word? But mark me, sir,
Think not to fly me thus. Do thou prepare
For public insult in the streets--before
The eyes of the citizens. I'll follow thee
Like an avenging spirit I'll follow thee
Even unto death. Before those whom thou lovest-
Before all Rome I'll taunt thee, villain,--I'll taunt thee,
Dost hear? with cowardice--thou wilt not fight me?
Thou liest! thou shalt! (exit. )

Cas. Now this indeed is just!
Most righteous, and most just, avenging Heaven!