‘This Malevole is one of the most prodigious affections that ever conversed with Nature; a man, or rather a monster, more discontent than Lucifer when he was thrust out of the presence. His appetite is unsatiable as the grave, as far from any content as from heaven. His highest delight is to procure others vexation, and therein he thinks he truly serves Heaven; for ’tis his position, whosoever in this earth can be contented, is a slave, and damned; therefore does he afflict all, in that to which they are most affected. The elements struggle with him; his own soul is at variance with herself; his speech is halter-worthy at all hours. I like him, faith; he gives good intelligence to my spirit, makes me understand those weaknesses which others’ flattery palliates. Hark! they sing. _Enter_ Malevole, _after the Song._ _Pietro Jacomo._ See he comes! Now shall you hear the extremity of a Malcontent; he is as free as air; he blows over every man. And—Sir, whence come you now? _Malevole._ From the public place of much dissimulation, the church. _Pietro Jacomo._ What didst there? _Malevole._ Talk with a usurer; take up at interest. _Pietro Jacomo._ I wonder what religion thou art of? _Malevole._ Of a soldier’s religion. _Pietro Jacomo._ And what dost think makes most infidels now? _Malevole._ Sects, sects. I am weary: would I were one of the Duke’s hounds. _Pietro Jacomo._ But what’s the common news abroad? Thou dogg’st rumour still. _Malevole._ Common news? Why, common words are, God save ye, fare ye well: common actions, flattery and cozenage: common things, women and cuckolds.’ _Act I. Scene 3._