Iago
For Michael Cassio,
I dare be sworn I think that he is honest.
Othello
I think so too.
Iago
Men should be what they seem;
Or those that be not, would they might seem none!
Othello
Certain, men should be what they seem.
Iago
Why, then, I think Cassio’s an honest man.
Othello
Nay, yet there’s more in this:
I prithee, speak to me as to thy thinkings,
As thou dost ruminate, and give thy worst of thoughts
The worst of words.
Iago
Good my lord, pardon me:
Though I am bound to every act of duty,
I am not bound to that all slaves are free to.
Utter my thoughts? Why, say they are vile and false;
As where’s that palace whereinto foul things
Sometimes intrude not? who has a breast so pure,
But some uncleanly apprehensions
Keep leets and law-days and in session sit
With meditations lawful?