Rom. Pardon, good Mercutio, my business was great;[594][595]
and in such a case as mine a man may strain courtesy.[594][596]

Mer. That's as much as to say, Such a case as yours[594]
constrains a man to bow in the hams.[594] 50

Rom. Meaning, to court'sy.[594][597]

Mer. Thou hast most kindly hit it.[594]

Rom. A most courteous exposition.[594][598]

Mer. Nay, I am the very pink of courtesy.[594]

Rom. Pink for flower.[594] 55

Mer. Right.[594]

Rom. Why, then is my pump well flowered.[594]

Mer. Well said: follow me this jest now, till thou hast[594][599]
worn out thy pump, that, when the single sole of it is worn,[594]
the jest may remain, after the wearing, solely singular.[594][600] 60