Page 2920 - Shakespeare - Vol. 3

CORIOLANUS

These eyes are not the same I wore in Rome.

VIRGILIA
The sorrow that delivers us thus changed
Makes you think so.

CORIOLANUS
(aside) Like a dull actor now [40]

I have forgot my part and I am out,
Even to a full disgrace.

(Rising and going to her)

Best of my flesh,
Forgive my tyranny; but do not say
For that, ‘Forgive our Romans.’ O, a kiss

Long as my exile, sweet as my revenge! [45]
Now, by the jealous queen of heaven, that kiss
I carried from thee, dear, and my true lip
Hath virgined it e’er since. You gods! I pray,

And the most noble mother of the world
Leave unsaluted. Sink my knee i’th’earth; [50]

He kneels.

Of thy deep duty more impression show
Than that of common sons.

VOLUMNIA

O, stand up blest!

He rises.

Whilst with no softer cushion than the flint
I kneel before thee, and unproperly
Show duty as mistaken all this while [55]
Between the child and parent.