Part 60

What say you? [Strikes him again. Hence horrible villain! or I'll spurn thine eyes Like balls before me--I'll unhair thine head-- Thou shalt be whipp'd with wire, and stewed in brine Smarting in ling'ring pickle.

MESSENGER.

Gracious madam! I, that do bring the news, made not the match.

CLEOPATRA.

Say 'tis not so, a province I will give thee, And make thy fortunes proud: the blow thou hadst Shall make thy peace for moving me to rage; And I will boot thee with what gift beside Thy modesty can beg.

MESSENGER.

He's married, madam.

CLEOPATRA.

Rogue, thou hast lived too long. [Draws a dagger.

MESSENGER.

Nay then I'll run. What mean you, madam? I have made no fault. [Exit.

CHARMIAN.

Good madam, keep yourself within yourself; The man is innocent.

CLEOPATRA.

Some innocents 'scape not the thunderbolt. Melt Egypt into Nile! and kindly creatures Turn all to serpents! Call the slave again; Though I am mad, I will not bite him--Call!

CHARMIAN.

He is afraid to come.

CLEOPATRA.

I will not hurt him. These hands do lack nobility, that they strike A meaner than myself.

* * * *

CLEOPATRA.

In praising Antony I have dispraised Cæsar.

CHARMIAN.

Many times, madam.

CLEOPATRA.

I am paid for't now-- Lead me from hence. I faint. O Iras, Charmian--'tis no matter Go to the fellow, good Alexas; bid him Report the features of Octavia, her years, Her inclination--let him not leave out The color of her hair. Bring me word quickly. [Exit Alex.

Let him forever go--let him not--Charmian, Though he be painted one way like a Gorgon, T'other way he's a Mars. Bid you Alexas [To Mardian.

Bring me word how tall she is. Pity me, Charmian. But do not speak to me. Lead me to my chamber.