Who stands so eminent in the degree of this fortune as Cassio does? a knave very voluble; no further conscionable than in putting on the mere form of civil and humane seeming, for the better compassing of his salt and most hidden loose affection? why, none.
– William Shakespeare
Othello, Act 2, Scene 1. Iago paints an ironic picture of Cassio as the ideal "knave" to turn Desdemona’s head and win her heart. He is loquacious and a smooth talker, hiding his lustful desires behind fine manners, and Desdemona will choose no one else but him, Iago assures Roderigo. Iago’s description more matches himself than Cassio.