Those that will follow Cassius, go with him;
And public reasons shall be rendered[107]
Of Cæsar's death.
1 Citizen. I will hear Brutus speak.
2 Citizen. I will hear Cassius; and compare their reasons,
10When severally we hear them rendered.[107]
[Exit Cassius, with some of the Citizens. Brutus goes into the pulpit][108]
3 Citizen. The noble Brutus is ascended: silence![109]
Brutus. Be patient till the last.
Romans, countrymen, and lovers![110] hear me for my cause, and be silent, that you may hear: believe me for mine 15honour, and have respect to mine honour, that you may believe: censure[111] me in your wisdom, and awake your senses, that you may the better judge. If there be any in this assembly, any dear friend of Cæsar's, to him I say that Brutus' love to Cæsar was no less than his. If then that 20friend demand why Brutus rose against Cæsar, this is my answer: Not that I lov'd Cæsar less, but that I lov'd Rome more. Had you rather Cæsar were living, and die all slaves, than that Cæsar were dead, to live all free-men? As Cæsar lov'd me, I weep for him; as he was fortunate, I rejoice at 25it; as he was valiant, I honour him: but as he was ambitious, I slew him. There is[112] tears[113] for his love; joy for his fortune; honour for his valour; and death for his ambition. Who is here so base that would be a bondman? If any, speak; for him have I offended. Who is here so rude 30that would not be a Roman? If any, speak; for him have I offended. Who is here so vile that will not love his country? If any, speak; for him have I offended. I pause for a reply.