Page 1408 - Shakespeare - Vol. 2

Why, then we rack the value, then we find
The virtue that possession would not show us [220]
Whiles it was ours. So will it fare with Claudio.
When he shall hear she died upon his words,

Th’idea of her life shall sweetly creep
Into his study of imagination,
And every lovely organ of her life [225]
Shall come apparelled in more precious habit,

More moving, delicate, and full of life,
Into the eye and prospect of his soul,
Than when she lived indeed. Then shall he mourn,
If ever love had interest in his liver, [230]

And wish he had not so accusèd her −
No, though he thought his accusation true.
Let this be so, and doubt not but success
Will fashion the event in better shape

Than I can lay it down in likelihood. [235]
But if all aim but this be levelled false,
The supposition of the lady’s death
Will quench the wonder of her infamy;

And if it sort not well, you may conceal her,
As best befits her wounded reputation, [240]
In some reclusive and religious life,
Out of all eyes, tongues, minds, and injuries.

BENEDICK

Signor Leonato, let the Friar advise you;
And though you know my inwardness and love
Is very much unto the Prince and Claudio, [245]
Yet, by mine honour, I will deal in this
As secretly and justly as your soul

Should with your body.

LEONATO
Being that I flow in grief,
The smallest twine may lead me.

FRIAR