Loyalty in time of need is possibly one of the noblest of victories a courtier can win over himself.
I would not be a rose upon the wall A queen might stop at, near the palace-door, To say to a courtier, "Pluck that rose for me, It's prettier than the rest. " O Romney Leigh! I'd rather far be trodden by his foot, Than lie in a great queen's bosom.
A rule that may serve for a statesman, a courtier, or a lovernever make a defence or an apology before you be accused.