Macb. Infected be the air whereon they ride,
And damn'd all those that trust them! I did hear
The galloping of horse: who was't came by? 140
Len. 'Tis two or three, my lord, that bring you word
Macduff is fled to England.
Macb. Fled to England!
Len. Ay, my good lord.
Macb. [Aside] Time, thou anticipatest my dread exploits:[4378]
The flighty purpose never is o'ertook 145
Unless the deed go with it: from this moment
The very firstlings of my heart shall be[4379]
The firstlings of my hand. And even now,[4380]
To crown my thoughts with acts, be it thought and done:[4381]
The castle of Macduff I will surprise; 150
Seize upon Fife; give to the edge o' the sword
His wife, his babes, and all unfortunate souls[4382]
That trace him in his line. No boasting like a fool;[4383]
This deed I'll do before this purpose cool:[4384]
But no more sights!—Where are these gentlemen?[4385] 155
Come, bring me where they are. [Exeunt.
Scene II. Fife. Macduff's castle.[4386]
Enter Lady Macduff, her Son, and Ross.[4387]
L. Macd. What had he done, to make him fly the land?[4388]
Ross. You must have patience, madam.
L. Macd. He had none:
His flight was madness: when our actions do not,
Our fears do make us traitors.