Bardas: I saved your life, my lord.
Antonio: And I've besought
Occasion oft for loaning of some chance
Worthily to repay you. If 'tis this,
I am distrest. I cannot plead your suit.
Bardas: You cannot or you will not?
Antonio: I have said.
Ask me for service on your foes, for gold,
Faith or devotion, friendship you're aloof to,
For all that will and honor well may render
With nicety, and I'll be wings and heart,
More—drudge to your desire.
Hæmon: Nobly, my lord!
Bardas, you must atone——
Bardas: Peace, Hæmon.
Hæmon: Peace
Is goad and gall! Why do you burn my cheek
With this indignity?
Bardas: Do you ask why? (to Antonio.)
A little since one of your father's guard
Gave his command in seal to Helena
Upon the streets, to instantly repair
Unto his halls—which she must henceforth honor.
You knew it not?
Antonio: My father?
Bardas: O, well feigned.
Be sure none will suspect he is too old
For knightly feat like this—and that he has
A son!