David. But show a tiger gleam?
Terrible fury stealing from the heart
And crouching cold within the eye, O Saul?

Saul. I'll not endure. They say that you——

David. They say?
What is this ravage in you? Does the truth
So limpid overflow in palaces?
Never an enemy to venom it?
Am I not David, faithful, and thy friend?

Saul. I'll slay you and regretless.

David (unmoving). Slay, my lord?

Saul. Do you not fear? And brave me to my breast?

David. Have I done wrong that I should fear the king?
Reed as I am, could he not breathe and break?
And I should be oblivion at a word!
But under the terror of his might have I
Not seen his heart beat justice and beat love?
See, even now!...

Saul. I will not listen to them!

David. To whom, my lord, and what?

Saul. Ever they say,
"This David," and "This David!"