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Will Shakespeare confides his desperate love for Viola to her male alter-ego, Thomas Kent, while traveling by boat. Viola, disguised as Thomas, tests the depth of Will's devotion and questions whether love can truly bridge the gap between their social classes. The scene culminates in a passionate declaration of love's power over rank and a sudden, revealing physical moment.
WILL: She tells me to keep away. She is to marry Lord Wessex. What should I do?
VIOLA AS THOMAS: If you love her, you must do what she asks.
WILL: And break her heart and mine?
VIOLA AS THOMAS: It is only yours you can know.
WILL: She loves me, Thomas!
VIOLA AS THOMAS: Does she say so?
WILL: No. And
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