Men. Cannot be!
We have record that very well it can, 50
And three examples of the like have been[3605]
Within my age. But reason with the fellow,
Before you punish him, where he heard this,
Lest you shall chance to whip your information
And beat the messenger who bids beware 55
Of what is to be dreaded.
Sic. Tell not me:[3606]
I know this cannot be.[3606]
Bru. Not possible.
Enter a Messenger.
Mess. The nobles in great earnestness are going
All to the senate-house: some news is come[3607]
That turns their countenances.
Sic. 'Tis this slave; 60
Go whip him 'fore the people's eyes: his raising;
Nothing but his report.
Mess. Yes, worthy sir,
The slave's report is seconded; and more,
More fearful, is deliver'd.[3608]
Sic. What more fearful?
Mess. It is spoke freely out of many mouths— 65
How probable I do not know—that Marcius,
Join'd with Aufidius, leads a power 'gainst Rome,
And vows revenge as spacious as between
The young'st and oldest thing.[3609]