Methinks my soul is like a flame unfed

With oil, that dances up and down the lamp,

But must expire ere long.

Cleom. I pr'ythee try to hold it, while thou canst.

Cleon. I would obey you,

As I have always done, but I am faint;

And when you please to let me die, I'll thank you.

Cleom. Thou shall have food; I promise thee, thou shalt.

Cleon. Then you shall promise to have food for yourself too;

For, if you have it not, I would refuse to eat;