Page 2566 - Shakespeare - Vol. 3

He’ll make demand of her, and spend that kiss
Which is my heaven to have. Come, thou mortal wretch,
(To an asp, which she applies to her breast.)
With thy sharp teeth this knot intrinsicate

Of life at once untie: poor venomous fool,
Be angry, and despatch. O, couldst thou speak, [305]
That I might hear thee call great Cæsar ass,
Unpolicied!

CHARMIAN

O eastern star!

CLEOPATRA

Peace, peace!
Dost thou not see my baby at my breast,
That sucks the nurse asleep?

CHARMIAN
O, break! O, break!

CLEOPATRA
As sweet as balm, as soft as air, as gentle. [310]

O Antony! Nay, I will take thee too.
(Applying another asp to her arm.)
What should I stay −
(Dies.)

CHARMIAN

In this vile world? So fare thee well.
Now boast thee, death, in thy possession lies
A lass unparallel’d. Downy windows, close, [315]
And golden Phœbus, never be beheld
Of eyes again so royal! Your crown’s awry,

I’ll mend it, and then play.

Enter the Guard, rustling in.

FIRST GUARD