LUCIO.
A very superficial, ignorant, unweighing fellow.
DUKE.
Either this is envy in you, folly, or mistaking. The very stream of his life, and the business he hath helmed, must upon a warranted need give him a better proclamation. Let him be but testimonied in his own bringings-forth, and he shall appear to the envious a scholar, a statesman, and a soldier. Therefore you speak unskilfully. Or, if your knowledge be more, it is much darkened in your malice.
LUCIO.
Sir, I know him, and I love him.
DUKE.
Love talks with better knowledge, and knowledge with dearer love.
LUCIO.
Come, sir, I know what I know.
DUKE.
I can hardly believe that, since you know not what you speak. But, if ever the Duke return, as our prayers are he may, let me desire you to make your answer before him. If it be honest you have spoke, you have courage to maintain it. I am bound to call upon you, and I pray you your name?
LUCIO.
Sir, my name is Lucio, well known to the Duke.
DUKE.
He shall know you better, sir, if I may live to report you.
LUCIO.
I fear you not.
DUKE.
O, you hope the Duke will return no more; or you imagine me too unhurtful an opposite. But indeed, I can do you little harm. You’ll forswear this again.