Page 2082 - Shakespeare - Vol. 3

ANGUS

Who was the Thane lives yet;
But under heavy judgement bears that life
Which he deserves to lose. Whether he was combined [110]

With those of Norway, or did line the rebel
With hidden help and vantage, or that with both
He laboured in his country’s wrack, I know not;
But treasons capital, confessed, and proved
Have overthrown him.

MACBETH

[aside] Glamis, and Thane of Cawdor!
The greatest is behind. − Thanks for your pains.
[to Banquo] Do you not hope your children shall be kings,
When those that gave the Thane of Cawdor to me

Promised no less to them?

BANQUO
That trusted home
Might yet enkindle you unto the crown [120]
Besides the Thane of Cawdor. But ’tis strange;
And oftentimes, to win us to our harm,

The instruments of darkness tell us truths;
Win us with honest trifles, to betray’s
In deepest consequence.

Cousins, a word, I pray you.

They walk apart.

MACBETH

[aside] Two truths are told
As happy prologues to the swelling Act
Of the imperial theme. − I thank you, gentlemen.

[aside] This supernatural soliciting
Cannot be ill, cannot be good. If ill, [130]
Why hath it given me earnest of success
Commencing in a truth? I am Thane of Cawdor.
If good, why do I yield to that suggestion