Now, whether he kill Cassio,
Or Cassio him, or each do kill the other,
Every way makes my gain.
– William Shakespeare
Othello, Act 5, Scene 1. Iago says this to himself as he and Roderigo wait on the street to ambush Cassio when he emerges from a visit to Bianca. No matter the outcome, Iago knows that he will benefit. While he wants Cassio dead, Roderigo’s death would allow him keep his jewels.