That is well, boy, well.
I would not have about me shallow fools,
Who with mean scruples weigh the gold of life,
And faltering, paltering, end by failure; failure,
The only crime which I have not committed:
I would have men about me. As for conscience,
Conscience is but the name which cowardice
Fleeing from battle scrawls upon its shield.
You understand me, boy?
Guido
I do, your Grace,
And will in all things carry out the creed
Which you have taught me.
Maffio
I never heard your Grace
So much in the vein for preaching; let the Cardinal
Look to his laurels, sir.
Duke
The Cardinal!
Men follow my creed, and they gabble his.
I do not think much of the Cardinal;
Although he is a holy churchman, and
I quite admit his dulness. Well, sir, from now
We count you of our household
[He holds out his hand for Guido to kiss. Guido starts back in horror, but at a gesture from Count Moranzone, kneels and kisses it.]
We will see
That you are furnished with such equipage
As doth befit your honour and our state.
Guido