But were I made of better elements.

With nobler instincts, purer tastes, like you,

I hardly would account the thing success

Though it did all for me I say.

But, friend,

We speak of what is; not of what might be,

And how 'twere better if 'twere otherwise.

I am the man you see here plain enough:

Grant I'm a beast, why, beasts must lead beasts' lives!

Suppose I own at once to tail and claws;