The quote "Nothing will come of nothing" is from Shakespeare's King Lear. The king is outraged and tells his youngest daughter (Cordelia) that "nothing will come of nothing," and he then banishes her from the country.

In a key situation, King Lear has decided to retire and divide his kingdom among his three daughters. They are required to come forward and flatter him. His two eldest daughters, Regan and Goneril, flatter and deceive the old king. They receive their rewards. The youngest, Cordelia, who loves her father the most, cannot find the words to articulate her love. He asks her to speak up and praise him more than her sisters have just done. When asked 'what do you have to say?' Cordelia responds, "I have nothing to say." He repeats her answer as a question. She gives the same answer. King Lear is outraged and tells her that "nothing will come of nothing," and banishes her without money, title, or any part of his kingdom.

More Info: shakespeareatchicago.uchicago.edu