TOUCHSTONE
I am deaf still, I say. I will neither yield to the song of the siren nor the voice of the hyena, the tears of the crocodile nor the howling o' the Wolf: avoid my habitations, monsters!

In this passage from "Eastward Ho!", Touchstone expresses his staunch resolve not to be swayed by the pleas and manipulations surrounding him. The "tears of the crocodile" metaphor is an allusion to insincere expressions of sorrow, suggesting that the cries he hears are deceptive. Touchstone's refusal to yield, despite the various forms of persuasion and emotional appeals likened to mythical creatures and animals, underscores his determination to maintain his moral stance. The "song of the siren" and "voice of the hyena" further emphasize the dangers of falling prey to false promises and deceitful tactics. By dismissing them as "monsters," Touchstone distances himself from their influence, highlighting his commitment to justice and integrity, even at personal cost. This scene serves as a critique of the corrupting power of greed and deception, while also exploring the themes of loyalty and familial duty in the face of moral dilemmas.