Page 2800 - Shakespeare - Vol. 3

We have made to endure friends, that you directly
Set me against Aufidius and his Antiates,
And that you not delay the present, but, [60]
Filling the air with swords advanced and darts,

We prove this very hour.

COMINIUS
Though I could wish
You were conducted to a gentle bath
And balms applied to you, yet dare I never

Deny your asking. Take your choice of those [65]
That best can aid your action.

MARTIUS
Those are they
That most are willing. If any such be here −
As it were sin to doubt − that love this painting

Wherein you see me smeared; if any fear
Lesser his person than an ill report; [70]
If any think brave death outweighs bad life
And that his country’s dearer than himself;

Let him alone, or so many so minded,
Wave thus to express his disposition,
And follow Martius. [75]

They all shout and wave their swords, take him up in their arms, and cast

up their caps.

O’me alone, make you a sword of me.
If these shows be not outward, which of you
But is four Volsces? None of you but is
Able to bear against the great Aufidius

A shield as hard as his. A certain number, [80]
Though thanks to all, must I select from all. The rest
Shall bear the business in some other fight,
As cause will be obeyed. Please you to march;

And I shall quickly draw out my command,
Which men are best inclined.