I almost shrink from meeting this strange fellow-- Recoil from his rough virtue! That one man Should ever make another feel confused! But see, he comes! he seems a noble youth; Looks like a man. I like his daring eye, His honest gait. Although the shell is bitter, The kernel may not be so. I have seen One like him somewhere. Pardon, noble Frank---- TEMPLAR. What would you? NATHAN. Pardon me---- TEMPLAR. What would you, Jew? NATHAN. The privilege of speaking to you. TEMPLAR. Well! How can I help it? Quick, then--what's your wish? NATHAN. Patience! nor pass with such contempt and pride One who must be your debtor evermore. TEMPLAR. How so? I almost guess. No; are you then---- NATHAN. My name is Nathan, father to the maid Your generous courage rescued from the flames. I come to---- TEMPLAR. If you come to render thanks, Spare them. I have already been compelled To bear too many thanks for this small act. Besides, you owe me nothing. Could I know The maiden was your daughter? I was bound-- It is a Templar's duty--to assist All who need succour; and my life just then Was a mere burden. It was a relief To risk it for another, even though The task were to preserve a Jewess' life. NATHAN. Great--great yet horrible--I understand The turn. The modest greatness will assume The hideous mask to ward off gratitude. But though he may disdain our proffer'd thanks, Is there no other tribute we can pay? Sir Knight! if you were not a stranger here, And not a pris'ner, I were not so bold. But, come, what service can I render you? TEMPLAR. You!--nothing. NATHAN. I am rich. TEMPLAR. The richer Jew Was ne'er in my esteem the better Jew. NATHAN. Is that a reason why you should not use The better part of him--his wealth? TEMPLAR.