Cas. He wish'd to-day our enterprise might thrive.16
I fear our purpose is discovered.
Bru. Look, how he makes to Cæsar: mark him.
Cas. Casca, be sudden, for we fear prevention.
Brutus, what shall be done? If this be known,20
Cassius or Cæsar never shall turn back,
For I will slay myself.
Bru.Cassius, be constant:
Popilius Lena speaks not of our purposes;
For, look, he smiles, and Cæsar doth not change.24
Cas. Trebonius knows his time; for, look you, Brutus,
He draws Mark Antony out of the way.
Dec. Where is Metellus Cimber? Let him go,
And presently prefer his suit to Cæsar.28
Bru. He is address'd; press near and second him.
Cin. Casca, you are the first that rears your hand.
Cæs. Are we all ready? What is now amiss,
That Cæsar and his senate must redress?32
Met. Most high, most mighty, and most puissant Cæsar,
Metellus Cimber throws before thy seat
A humble heart,—[Kneeling.]
Cæs.I must prevent thee, Cimber.
These couchings and these lowly courtesies,36
Might fire the blood of ordinary men,
And turn pre-ordinance and first decree
Into the law of children. Be not fond,
22 constant: unmoved
28 prefer: present, offer
29 address'd: ready
36 couchings: prostrations
courtesies: bowings
38 pre-ordinance: what is already ordained
39 law of children: arbitrary uncertainty
fond: foolish
