Page 2882 - Shakespeare - Vol. 3

As he began, and not unknit himself
The noble knot he made.

BRUTUS
I would he had.

VOLUMNIA
‘I would he had’! ’Twas you incensed the rabble −
Cats that can judge as fitly of his worth

As I can of those mysteries which heaven [35]
Will not have earth to know.

BRUTUS
Pray, let’s go.

VOLUMNIA
Now, pray, sir, get you gone.
You have done a brave deed. Ere you go, hear this:

As far as doth the Capitol exceed
The meanest house in Rome, so far my son − [40]
This lady’s husband here, this, do you see? −
Whom you have banished does exceed you all.

BRUTUS
Well, well, we’ll leave you.

SICINIUS
Why stay we to be baited
With one that wants her wits?
Exeunt Tribunes.

VOLUMNIA
Take my prayers with you.

I would the gods had nothing else to do [45]
But to confirm my curses. Could I meet ’em
But once a day, it would unclog my heart
Of what lies heavy to’t.