DUKE.
So I believe, but Thurio thinks not so.
Proteus, the good conceit I hold of thee,
For thou hast shown some sign of good desert,
Makes me the better to confer with thee.
PROTEUS.
Longer than I prove loyal to your Grace
Let me not live to look upon your Grace.
DUKE.
Thou know’st how willingly I would effect
The match between Sir Thurio and my daughter?
PROTEUS.
I do, my lord.
DUKE.
And also, I think, thou art not ignorant
How she opposes her against my will?
PROTEUS.
She did, my lord, when Valentine was here.
DUKE.
Ay, and perversely she persevers so.
What might we do to make the girl forget
The love of Valentine, and love Sir Thurio?
PROTEUS.
The best way is to slander Valentine
With falsehood, cowardice, and poor descent,
Three things that women highly hold in hate.
DUKE.
Ay, but she’ll think that it is spoke in hate.
PROTEUS.
Ay, if his enemy deliver it;
Therefore it must with circumstance be spoken
By one whom she esteemeth as his friend.