Scene III (At the home of Polonius, the king’s adviser. Polonius offers Laertes words of advice, then asks to meet with Ophelia to ask her about Hamlet.)
Pol. Laertes, may I have a word?
Laertes. For you, father, all 625,000 words of the Oxford English Dictionary. (OED)
Pol. I have for a certain time noted your growth to a man of duty and character. I wish to impart these few precepts to guide thy conduct. Give every man thine ear, but few thy voice; take each man's censure, but reserve thy judgment. Costly thy habit as thy purse can buy. Neither a borrower nor a lender be, for loan oft loses both itself and friend, And borrowing dulls the edge of husbandry. This above all: to thine own self be true. Farewell, my son.
Laertes. With a son’s greatest love I thank thee for thy wisdom and care, father. With all my strength, I will live your standards.
Pol. My love and pride in thee, Laertes. And now, would you find your sister and send her to me.
Laertes. I shall. (exits and shouts to Ophelia)
Oph. I am here, father.
Pol. How is it with you, daughter?
Oph. I am well, my lord.
Pol. How are matters with prince Hamlet? A heavy weight suffocates his spirit. Give me up the truth.
Oph. Of late Hamlet hath been distant from himself and me. I love him but know not his heart.
Pol. He has, on occasion, shown a favorable disposition towards you?
Oph. Yes, my lord.
Pol. Time knows the answer you seek, and time will bring it forth. If Hamlet holds amorous feelings, he will reveal them to you, and to us all. His father’s death and mother’s marriage to his uncle troubles his spirit. Patience, my dear Ophelia, patience.
Oph. Father, your wisdom comforts me.
Pol. Daughter, your love is greater than the sea. Let us walk in the orchard.
(Exit)