Why?
NATHAN.
That her lips may cling to this dear speck;
For at her benefactor’s feet to fall,
I find, she hopes in vain.
TEMPLAR.
But, Jew, your name
You said was Nathan—Nathan, you can join
Your words together cunningly—right well—
I am confused—in fact—I would have been—
NATHAN.
Twist, writhe, disguise you, as you will, I know you,
You were too honest, knight, to be more civil;
A girl all feeling, and a she-attendant
All complaisance, a father at a distance—
You valued her good name, and would not see her.
You scorned to try her, lest you should be victor;
For that I also thank you.
TEMPLAR.
I confess,
You know how templars ought to think.
NATHAN.