Besides the thane of Cawdor.”
I doubt whether “enkindle” has not another sense than that of “stimulating;” I mean of “kind” and “kin,” as when rabbits are said to “kindle.” However, Macbeth no longer hears anything ab extra:—
“Two truths are told,
As happy prologues to the swelling act
Of the imperial theme.”
Then in the necessity of recollecting himself,—
“I thank you, gentlemen.”
Then he relapses into himself again, and every word of his soliloquy shows the early birth-date of his guilt. He is all-powerful without strength; [pg 235] he wishes the end, but is irresolute as to the means; conscience distinctly warns him, and he lulls it imperfectly:—
“If chance will have me king, why, chance may crown me
Without my stir.”