FIRST WATCH.
Faith, sir, if you had told as many lies in his behalf as you have uttered words in your own, you should not pass here, no, though it were as virtuous to lie as to live chastely. Therefore, go back.
MENENIUS.
Prithee, fellow, remember my name is Menenius, always factionary on the party of your general.
SECOND WATCH.
Howsoever you have been his liar, as you say you have, I am one that, telling true under him, must say you cannot pass. Therefore go back.
MENENIUS.
Has he dined, can’st thou tell? For I would not speak with him till after dinner.
FIRST WATCH.
You are a Roman, are you?
MENENIUS.
I am, as thy general is.
FIRST WATCH.
Then you should hate Rome as he does. Can you, when you have pushed out your gates the very defender of them, and, in a violent popular ignorance given your enemy your shield, think to front his revenges with the easy groans of old women, the virginal palms of your daughters, or with the palsied intercession of such a decayed dotant as you seem to be? Can you think to blow out the intended fire your city is ready to flame in with such weak breath as this? No, you are deceived. Therefore back to Rome and prepare for your execution. You are condemned. Our general has sworn you out of reprieve and pardon.
MENENIUS.
Sirrah, if thy captain knew I were here, he would use me with estimation.
SECOND WATCH.
Come, my captain knows you not.
MENENIUS.
I mean thy general.