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 Rome
Had circumvention? not four days gone
Since I heard . 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.
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
bent. Most likely 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
Nor did you think it folly
To keep your great pretences veiled till when
They needs must show themselves, which, in the hatching,
It seemed, appeared to Rome. By the discovery
We shall be shortened in our aim, which was
To take in many towns almost Rome
Should know we were afoot.
SECOND SENATOR
Noble Aufidius,
Take your commission; hie you to your bands.
Let us alone to guard Corioles.
If they set down before’s, for the remove
Bring up your army. But I think you’ll find
They’ve not prepared for us.
AUFIDIUS
O, doubt not that;
I speak from certainties. Nay, more,
Some parcels of their power are forth already,
And only hitherward. I leave your Honours.
If we and Caius Martius chance to meet,
sworn between us we shall ever strike
Till one can do no more.
ALL
The gods assist you!
AUFIDIUS
And keep your Honours safe!
FIRST SENATOR
Farewell.
SECOND SENATOR
Farewell.
ALL
Farewell.