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solely in listening to, and in confirming, Banquo's generous panegyric of his absent partner. And what is the topic of this praise? On what account does Banquo, the witness and companion of his dangers, extoll Macbeth so highly?—Will it be believed, after what Mr. Whateley and Mr. Steevens have asserted?—Why, precisely for his being pre-eminently endowed with that very courage, which they have the temerity to deny him:—

Dunc. True, worthy Banquo; he is full so valiant,
And in his commendations I am fed.
*******
Oh, 'tis a peerless kinsman![1]

  1. Macbeth,. Act i. Sc. 4.