How we cite our quotes: Chapter, Paragraph
Quote #1
I did not take a step. Even if it cost me my head, I would defend my master and his good wife. (1.13)
Right from the start we get a sense of Edmund's sense of duty. His master's house is under attack, but though Otto demands that Edmund run for it and save his own skin, Edmund refuses to budge. He's ready to face death rather than abandon the man who's trained him and given him a roof over his head.
Quote #2
"Your master Otto was a thief," he said at last.
"No, my lord, he was an honest coiner."
[…]
This time he barely touched me, a quick stab of his open hand, below my ribs. I gasped, swore to myself I would not go down, and fell.
I was on my feet in an instant—shocked at myself, ashamed. I was in angry tears.
"You won't defame my master Otto," I heard myself say. "Or his good wife." (4.12-17)
Trying to defend Otto at this point is pretty much pointless, but Edmund lives to serve, and since he doesn't have a new boss yet, he's going to stick up for the one he had prior. Edmund is very loyal to Otto, so even though he knows the man was a criminal, he refuses to let his name be dragged through the mud. It's Edmund's duty.
Quote #3
The duty was punishment, but I was happy to be around the animals. Hubert and I bucketed salt water over the feces and urine of these bleating, squalling creatures. Our own horses, including Shadow and Winter Star, heard the newer animals snorting and joined the chorus. (18.7)
We know, we know. We said Edmund is all about duty. But sometimes he can be a bit dense—like when he robs the Venetian. But after Nigel puts him in his place he's happy to accept his punishment. He gets it, and is eager to make it up to him.