Laer. Come, one for me.

Ham. I'll be your foil, Laertes: in mine ignorance
Your skill shall, like a star i' the darkest night,[2300]
Stick fiery off indeed.[2301]

Laer. You mock me, sir.

Ham. No, by this hand.[2302] 245

King. Give them the foils, young Osric. Cousin[2303][2304]
Hamlet,[2303]
You know the wager?

Ham. Very well, my lord;[2305][2306]
Your grace has laid the odds o' the weaker side.[2306][2307]

King. I do not fear it; I have seen you both:[2308]
But since he is better'd, we have therefore odds.[2309] 250

Laer. This is too heavy; let me see another.[2310][2311]

Ham. This likes me well. These foils have all a length?[2310][2312]

[They prepare to play.