Our doubts are traitors, / And make us lose the good we oft might win, / By fearing to attempt.
- Source
- Measure for Measure, Act 1, Scene 4
- Written
- c. 1604
About this quotation
Lucio says this to Isabella, a novice about to plead for her brother’s life before the deputy who has condemned him. It is practical encouragement to speak up rather than hold back, which is how the lines are usually quoted today.