Osr. The king, sir, hath laid, sir, that in a dozen[2246]
passes between yourself and him, he shall not exceed you[2247]
three hits: he hath laid on twelve for nine; and it would[2248]
come to immediate trial, if your lordship would vouchsafe
the answer. 160
Ham. How if I answer 'no'?
Osr. I mean, my lord, the opposition of your person
in trial.
Ham. Sir, I will walk here in the hall: if it please his[2249]
majesty, it is the breathing time of day with me; let the[2249][2250] 165
foils be brought, the gentleman willing, and the king hold[2251]
his purpose, I will win for him an I can; if not, I will gain[2252]
nothing but my shame and the odd hits.
Osr. Shall I redeliver you e'en so?[2253]
Ham. To this effect, sir, after what flourish your nature[2254] 170
will.
Osr. I commend my duty to your lordship.[2255]
Ham. Yours, yours. [Exit Osric.] He does well to[2256]
commend it himself; there are no tongues else for's turn.[2257]
Hor. This lapwing runs away with the shell on his[2258] 175
head.
Ham. He did comply with his dug before he sucked[2259]
it. Thus has he—and many more of the same breed that[2260]
I know the drossy age dotes on—only got the tune of the
time and outward habit of encounter; a kind of yesty collection,[2261][2262] 180
which carries them through and through the most[2261]
fond and winnowed opinions; and do but blow them to[2263]
their trial, the bubbles are out.[2264]