That the magnifico is much beloved,
And hath in his effect a voice potential
As double as the Duke’s. He will divorce you
Or put upon you what restraint or grievance
The law, with all his might to enforce it on,
Will give him cable.

– William Shakespeare

Othello, Act 1, Scene 2. Iago advises Othello that the powerful Venetian Senator Brabantio can use his considerable influence to force him and Desdemona to divorce. The master puppeteer and manipulator is putting on a show of sympathy for Othello in order to gain his trust.