Page 2916 - Shakespeare - Vol. 3

weak breath as this? No, [45] you are deceived, therefore back to Rome and
prepare for your execution. You are condemned, our general has sworn you
out of reprieve and pardon.

MENENIUS
Sirrah, if thy captain knew I were here, he would use me with estimation.
[50]

FIRST WATCH
Come, my captain knows you not.

MENENIUS
I mean thy general.

FIRST WATCH
My general cares not for you. Back, I say, go, lest I let forth your half-pint of
blood. Back − that’s the utmost of your having. Back. [55]

MENENIUS
Nay, but fellow, fellow −

Enter Coriolanus with Aufidius.

CORIOLANUS
What’s the matter?

MENENIUS
Now, you companion, I’ll say an errand for you. You shall know now that I am
in estimation. You shall perceive that a Jack guardant cannot office [60] me
from my son Coriolanus. Guess but my entertainment with him. If thou
stand’st not i’th’state of hanging, or of some death more long in spectatorship

and crueller in suffering, behold now presently and swoon for what’s to come
upon thee. (To Coriolanus) The [65] glorious gods sit in hourly synod about
thy particular prosperity and love thee no worse than thy old father Menenius
does! O my son, my son, thou art preparing fire for us. Look thee, here’s

water to quench it. I was hardly moved to come to thee; but being assured
none [70] but myself could move thee, I have been blown out of your gates