Page 1484 - Shakespeare - Vol. 3

IAGO

For Michael Cassio,
I dare presume, I think that he is honest.

OTHELLO
I think so too.

IAGO
Men should be that they seem, [130]

Or those that be not, would they might seem none!

OTHELLO

Certain, men should be what they seem.

IAGO
Why then I think Cassio’s an honest man.

OTHELLO
Nay, yet there’s more in this:
I prithee, speak to me as to thy thinkings, [135]
As thou dost ruminate, and give the worst of thought

The worst of word.

IAGO

Good my lord, pardon me;
Though I am bound to every act of duty,
I am not bound to that all slaves are free to;

Utter my thoughts? Why, say they are vile and false: [140]
As where’s that palace, whereinto foul things
Sometimes intrude not? who has a breast so pure,
But some uncleanly apprehensions
Keep leets and law-days, and in session sit

With meditations lawful? [145]

OTHELLO
Thou dost conspire against thy friend, Iago,
If thou but thinkest him wrong’d, and makest his ear