LENTULUS. [Surprised.] You resign?
CATILINE. I shall. But be prepared for all events; Know this—our undertaking is revealed: The senate is informed of every plan; Its troops hem us about—
LENTULUS. What do you say?
CATILINE. Now shall I call a council of our friends; Do you come too,—announce your leadership; I shall resign.
LENTULUS. [Detains him.] One moment, Catiline!
CATILINE. Your time is precious; ere the dawn of day You may expect an onslaught—
LENTULUS. [Anxiously.] Hear me, friend! Surely you jest? It is impossible—
CATILINE. Our project, I have told you, is betrayed. Show now your firmness and sagacity!
LENTULUS. Betrayed? Then woe to us!
CATILINE. [Smiles scornfully.] You paltry coward! You tremble now;—yet you would murder me; You think a man like you is called to rule?