Act 1 — Scene X. The camp of the Volsces.[2768]
Reading edition
Scene X. The camp of the Volsces.[2768]
A flourish. Cornets. Enter Tullus Aufidius, bloody, with two or three Soldiers.
Auf. The town is ta'en![2769] First Sol. 'Twill be deliver'd back on good condition.[2770][2769] Auf. Condition! I would I were a Roman; for I cannot, Being a Volsce, be that I am. Condition![2771] 5 What good condition can a treaty find I' the part that is at mercy? Five times, Marcius, I have fought with thee; so often hast thou beat me; And wouldst do so, I think, should we encounter As often as we eat. By the elements,[2772] 10 If e'er again I meet him beard to beard, He's mine, or I am his: mine emulation Hath not that honour in 't it had; for where I thought to crush him in an equal force, True sword to sword, I'll potch at him some way,[2773] 15 Or wrath or craft may get him. First Sol. He's the devil.[2770] Auf. Bolder, though not so subtle. My valour's poison'd[2774][2775] With only suffering stain by him; for him[2775][2776] Shall fly out of itself: nor sleep nor sanctuary,[2777] Being naked, sick, nor fane nor Capitol,[2778] 20 The prayers of priests nor times of sacrifice, Embarquements all of fury, shall lift up[2779] Their rotten privilege and custom 'gainst My hate to Marcius: where I find him, were it At home, upon my brother's guard, even there,[2780] 25 Against the hospitable canon, would I Wash my fierce hand in's heart. Go you to the city; Learn how 'tis held, and what they are that must Be hostages for Rome. First Sol. Will not you go?[2770] Auf. I am attended at the cypress grove: I pray you—[2781] 30 'Tis south the city mills—bring me word thither[2782] How the world goes, that to the pace of it I may spur on my journey. First Sol. I shall, sir. [Exeunt.[2770][2783]