Hamlet laid dying in Horatio’s arms. He had just been stabbed with a poison uncureable by even the best medicine. Horatio was breaking down. The level-headed and calm Horatio, screaming and sobbing. Hamlet was using the last of his dying strength to force Horatio’s hands off the cup. He couldn’t let Horatio kill himself for him. Not like this.

Hamlet’s voice was muffled over Horatio’s sobs. “ Horatio. Upon my love. I charge thee. Let it go! “ But Horatio just shook his head and held onto the cup.