Benedick
I do love nothing in the world so well as you; is not that strange?
Beatrice
As strange as the thing I know not. It were as possible for me to say I loved nothing so well as you; but believe me not, and yet I lie not; I confess nothing, nor I deny nothing. I am sorry for my cousin.
It’s as strange as something unknown. I could say I loved you back but don’t believe me. But then again, I’m not lying. I’m not saying anything. I’m just sorry for Hero.
Benedick
By my sword, Beatrice, thou lovest me.
Why do you think they choose this moment to say they love each other?
Beatrice
Do not swear, and eat it.
Don’t say something now and take it back afterwards.
Benedick
I will swear by it that you love me; and I will make him eat it that says I love not you.
Beatrice
Will you not eat your word?
Benedick
With no sauce that can be devised to it; I protest I love thee.
Beatrice
Why, then, God forgive me!
Benedick
What offence, sweet Beatrice?
Beatrice
You have stayed me in a happy hour; I was about to protest I loved you.
Benedick
And do it with all thy heart.
Beatrice
I love you with so much of my heart that none is left to protest.
Benedick
Come, bid me do any thing for thee.
Benedick
Ha! Not for the wide world.
Beatrice
You kill me to deny it. Farewell.
Benedick
(Taking her by the hand)Tarry, sweet Beatrice.
Beatrice
I am gone though I am here; there is no love in you. Nay, I pray you, let me go.
You interrupted me just in time. I nearly let my happy emotions get away with me.
Beatrice
In faith, I will go.
Benedick
We'll be friends first.
Beatrice
You dare easier be friends with me than fight with mine enemy.
Benedick
Is Claudio thine enemy?
Beatrice
Is he not approved in the height a villain that hath slandered, scorned, dishonoured my kinswoman? O that I were a man! What, bear her in hand until they come to take hands, and then, with public accusation, uncovered slander, unmitigated rancour - O God, that I were a man! I would eat his heart in the market-place.
What does Beatrice do in this scene to persuade Benedick to challenge Claudio?