_Enter_ TULLUS AUFIDIUS, _with_ Senators _of Corioli_.[2573]
_First Sen._ So, your opinion is, Aufidius,
That they of Rome are enter'd in our counsels,
And know how we proceed.
_Auf._ Is it not yours?
What ever have been thought on in this state,[2574]
That could be brought to bodily act ere Rome 5
Had circumvention? 'Tis not four days gone
Since I heard thence: these are the words: I think
I have the letter here: yes, here it is:
[_Reads_] 'They have press'd a power, but it is not known[2575]
Whether for east or west: the dearth is great;[2576] 10
The people mutinous: and it is rumour'd,
Cominius, Marcius your old enemy,
Who is of Rome worse hated than of you,
And Titus Lartius, a most valiant Roman,
These three lead on this preparation 15
Whither 'tis bent: most likely 'tis for you:[2577]
Consider of it.'
_First Sen._ Our army's in the field:
We never yet made doubt but Rome was ready
To answer us.
_Auf._ Nor did you think it folly
To keep your great pretences veil'd till when[2578] 20
They needs must show themselves; which in the hatching,
It seem'd, appear'd to Rome. By the discovery[2579]
We shall be shorten'd in our aim, which was
To take in many towns ere almost Rome
Should know we were afoot.
_Sec. Sen._ Noble Aufidius, 25
Take your commission; hie you to your bands:
Let us alone to guard Corioli:[2580][2581]
If they set down before 's, for the remove[2581][2582]
Bring up your army; but, I think, you'll find
They've not prepared for us.[2583]
_Auf._ O, doubt not that; 30
I speak from certainties. Nay, more,[2584]
Some parcels of their power are forth already,[2585]
And only hitherward. I leave your honours.
If we and Caius Marcius chance to meet,
'Tis sworn between us, we shall ever strike[2586] 35
Till one can do no more.
_All._ The gods assist you!
_Auf._ And keep your honours safe!
_First Sen._ Farewell.
_Sec. Sen._ Farewell.
_All._ Farewell. [_Exeunt._[2587]