Page 2784 - Shakespeare - Vol. 3

BRUTUS

Let’s along.
Exeunt.

Scene II IT

Enter Tullus Aufidius, with Senators of Corioles.

FIRST SENATOR

So, your opinion is, Aufidius,
That they of Rome are entered in our counsels
And know how we proceed.

AUFIDIUS
Is it not yours?
What ever have been thought on in this state

That could be brought to bodily act ere Rome [5]
Had circumvention? ’Tis not four days gone
Since I heard thence. These are the words − I think

I have the letter here; yes, here it is:

They have pressed a power, but it is not known
Whether for east or west. The dearth is great, [10]
The people mutinous. And it is rumoured,
Cominius, Martius your old enemy,

Who is of Rome worse hated than of you,
And Titus Lartius, a most valiant Roman,
These three lead on this preparation [15]
Whither ’tis bent. Most likely ’tis for you.

Consider of it.

FIRST SENATOR
Our army’s in the field.
We never yet made doubt but Rome was ready
To answer us.

AUFIDIUS