There was no story, my lord. She never told him she loved him. She kept her love bottled up inside her until it destroyed her, ruining her beauty. She pined away. She just sat waiting patiently, sadly, smiling despite her sadness. Her complexion turned greenish from depression. Doesn’t that sound like true love? We men might talk more and promise more, but in fact we talk more than we really feel. We might be great at making vows, but our love isn’t sincere.
ORSINO
But died thy sister of her love, my boy?
ORSINO
But did your sister die of love?
120
VIOLA
I am all the daughters of my father’s house,
And all the brothers too—and yet I know not.
Sir, shall I to this lady?
VIOLA
I am the only daughter in my father’s family, and all the brothers too—but I’m not completely sure about that. Anyway, sir, should I go see the lady?
ORSINO
Ay, that’s the theme.
To her in haste. Give her this jewel. Say
My love can give no place, bide no denay.
(he hands her a jewel)
ORSINO
Yes, go quickly and give her this jewel. Tell her my love won’t go away and won’t be denied. (he hands her a jewel)