Son. What is a traitor?
L. Macd. Why, one that swears and lies.
Son. And be all traitors that do so? 48
L. Macd. Every one that does so is a traitor, and must be hanged.
Son. And must they all be hanged that swear and lie?
L. Macd. Every one.
Son. Who must hang them? 52
L. Macd. Why, the honest men.
Son. Then the liars and swearers are fools,
for there are liars and swearers enow to beat the
honest men, and hang up them. 56
L. Macd. Now God help thee, poor monkey!
But how wilt thou do for a father?
Son. If he were dead, you'd weep for him: if
you would not, it were a good sign that I should
quickly have a new father. 61
L. Macd. Poor prattler, how thou talk'st!
Enter a Messenger.
Mess. Bless you, fair dame! I am not to you known,
Though in your state of honour I am perfect. 64
I doubt some danger does approach you nearly:
If you will take a homely man's advice,
Be not found here; hence, with your little ones.
To fright you thus, methinks, I am too savage;
To do worse to you were fell cruelty, 69
Which is too nigh your person. Heaven preserve you!
I dare abide no longer. Exit Messenger.
L. Macd. Whither should I fly?
I have done no harm. But I remember now 72
I am in this earthly world, where to do harm
64 in . . . perfect: well acquainted with your rank and station
