All's Well That Ends Well — Act 3, Scene 3: Florence. Before the DUKE's palace.

At Florence, the Duke publicly appoints Bertram as general of the horse and shows confidence in his ability, placing high hopes and trust in him. Bertram responds with formal humility, saying the command is heavier than he can bear but promising to serve the Duke loyally and face danger for his sake. The Duke sends him forth with blessings on his fortune and success. Bertram then speaks like a soldier eager for war, declaring himself ready to join Mars and become the man he imagines himself to be: devoted to the drum, hostile to love. Bertram, Parolles, and the soldiers then exit.

The general of our horse thou art; and we,

Great in our hope, lay our best love and credence

Upon thy promising fortune.

Sir, it is

A charge too heavy for my strength, but yet

We'll strive to bear it for your worthy sake

To the extreme edge of hazard.

Then go thou forth;

And fortune play upon thy prosperous helm,

As thy auspicious mistress!

This very day,

Great Mars, I put myself into thy file:

Make me but like my thoughts, and I shall prove

A lover of thy drum, hater of love.