_Laer._ Think it no more:[275] 10 For nature crescent does not grow alone[276] In thews and bulk; but, as this temple waxes,[277] The inward service of the mind and soul[278] Grows wide withal. Perhaps he loves you now; And now no soil nor cautel doth besmirch[279] 15 The virtue of his will: but you must fear,[280] His greatness weigh'd, his will is not his own;[281] For he himself is subject to his birth:[282] He may not, as unvalued persons do,[283] Carve for himself, for on his choice depends[284] 20 The safety and health of this whole state,[285] And therefore must his choice be circumscribed Unto the voice and yielding of that body Whereof he is the head. Then if he says he loves you,[286] It fits your wisdom so far to believe it 25 As he in his particular act and place[287] May give his saying deed; which is no further Than the main voice of Denmark goes withal. Then weigh what loss your honour may sustain,[288] If with too credent ear you list his songs,[289] 30 Or lose your heart, or your chaste treasure open[290] To his unmaster'd importunity.[291] Fear it, Ophelia, fear it, my dear sister, And keep you in the rear of your affection,[292] Out of the shot and danger of desire. 35 The chariest maid is prodigal enough, If she unmask her beauty to the moon: Virtue itself 'scapes not calumnious strokes: The canker galls the infants of the spring[293] Too oft before their buttons be disclosed,[294] 40 And in the morn and liquid dew of youth Contagious blastments are most imminent. Be wary then; best safety lies in fear: Youth to itself rebels, though none else near. _Oph._ I shall the effect of this good lesson keep,[295] 45 As watchman to my heart. But, good my brother,[296] Do not, as some ungracious pastors do, Show me the steep and thorny way to heaven,[297] Whilst, like a puff'd and reckless libertine,[298] Himself the primrose path of dalliance treads[299] 50 And recks not his own rede.[300] _Laer._ O, fear me not. I stay too long: but here my father comes. _Enter_ POLONIUS.[301] A double blessing is a double grace;[302] Occasion smiles upon a second leave.