CATILINE. Compose yourself! It is your love for me, Your interest in my safety, that has wakened Imaginary dangers in your mind.
CURIUS. Oh, do you know these words do murder me? But flee! I do entreat you earnestly—
CATILINE. Be calm and speak your mind. Why should I flee? The enemy knows not where I make my stand.
CURIUS. Indeed he does,—he knows your every plan!
CATILINE. What, are you mad? He knows—? Impossible!
CURIUS. Oh, were it so! But use the hour remaining; Still you may save yourself perhaps in flight!
CATILINE. Betrayed? No,—ten times no; impossible!
CURIUS. [Seizes his dagger and holds it out to him.] Catiline, plunge this dagger in my bosom;— Straight through the heart! 'Twas I betrayed your plans!
CATILINE. You? What madness!
CURIUS. Yes, it was in madness! Ask not the reason; scarce I know myself; I say,—I have revealed your every counsel.