1.2

Editor’s NoteEnter Aufidius, with Senators of Corioles

1

first senator So, your opinion is, Aufidius,

2That they of Rome are entered in our counsels

3And know how we proceed.

aufidius Is it not yours?

Editor’s Note4What ever have been thought on in this state

5That could be brought to bodily act ere Rome

Editor’s Note6Had circumvention? 'Tis not four days gone

7Since I heard thence. These are the words. I think

8I have the letter here—[produces letter] yes, here it is.

[He reads the letter]

Editor’s Note9'They have pressed a power, but it is not known

10Whether for east or west. The dearth is great,

11The people mutinous, and it is rumoured

12Cominius, Martius your old enemy—

13Who is of Rome worse hated than of you—

14And Titus Lartius, a most valiant Roman,

Editor’s Note15These three lead on this preparatïon

Editor’s Note16Whither 'tis bent. Most likely, 'tis for you.

17Consider of it.'

first senator Our army's in the field.

18We never yet made doubt but Rome was ready

19To answer us.

aufidius Nor did you think it folly

Editor’s Note20To keep your great pretences veiled, till when

21They needs must show themselves, which in the hatching

pg 273522It seemed, appeared to Rome. By the discovery,

Editor’s Note23We shall be shortened in our aim, which was

Editor’s Note24To take in many towns, ere, almost, Rome

25Should know we were a-foot.

second senator Noble Aufidius,

Editor’s Note26Take your commission, hie you to your bands;

27Let us alone to guard Corioles.

Editor’s Note28If they set down before's, for the remove

29Bring up your army; but, I think, you'll find

30Th'have not prepared for us.

aufidius O doubt not that;

31I speak from certainties. Nay more,

32Some parcels of their power are forth already,

Editor’s Note33And only hitherward. I leave your honours.

34If we and Caius Martius chance to meet,

35'Tis sworn between us, we shall ever strike

36Till one can do no more.

37

senators The gods assist you.

aufidius And keep your honours safe.

38

first senator Farewell.

39

second senator Farewell.

40

all Farewell.

Exeunt [Aufidius at one door, Senators at another door]