TWELFTH NIGHT. 7

 

a messenger praying Cesario to visit her once more, Cesario had no heart
to refuse the request.

But the favours which Olivia bestowed upon this mere page aroused
the jealousy of Sir Andrew Aguecheek, a foolish, rejected lover of hers,
who at that time was staying at her house with her merry old uncle Sir
Toby. This same Sir Toby dearly loved a practical joke, and knowing
Sir Andrew to be an arrant coward, he thought that if he could bring off
a duel between him and Cesario, there would be brave sport indeed. So
he induced Sir Andrew to send a challenge, which he himself took to
Cesario. The poor page, in great terror, said— ;

“T will return again to the house, I am no fighter.”

“ Back you shall not to the house,” said Sir Toby, “unless you fight
me first.” .

And as he looked a very fierce old gentleman, Viola thought it best
to await Sir Andrew’s coming ; and when he at last made his appearance,
in a great fright, if the truth had been known, she tremblingly drew
her sword, and Sir Andrew in like fear followed her example. Happily
for them both, at this moment some officers of the Court came on the
scene, and stopped the intended duel. Viola gladly made off with what
speed she might, while Sir Toby called after her—

“ A very paltry boy, and more a coward than a hare !”