Page 2448 - Shakespeare - Vol. 3

The man is innocent.

CLEOPATRA
Some innocents ’scape not the thunderbolt:
Melt Egypt into Nile! and kindly creatures
Turn all to serpents! Call the slave again,
Though I am mad, I will not bite him: call! [80]

CHARMIAN
He is afeard to come.

CLEOPATRA
I will not hurt him.
These hands do lack nobility, that they strike
A meaner than myself; since I myself

Have given myself the cause.

Enter the Messenger again.

Come hither, sir.
Though it be honest, it is never good [85]
To bring bad news: give to a gracious message

An host of tongues, but let ill tidings tell
Themselves, when they be felt.

MESSENGER
I have done my duty.

CLEOPATRA
Is he married?
I cannot hate thee worser than I do, [90]
If thou again say ‘Yes’.

MESSENGER

He’s married, madam.

CLEOPATRA