Open Source Shakespeare

Cymbeline, King of Britain

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Act III, Scene 7

Rome. A public place.

       

[Enter two Senators and Tribunes]

  • First Senator. This is the tenor of the emperor's writ:
    That since the common men are now in action
    'Gainst the Pannonians and Dalmatians,
    And that the legions now in Gallia are
    Full weak to undertake our wars against 2270
    The fall'n-off Britons, that we do incite
    The gentry to this business. He creates
    Lucius preconsul: and to you the tribunes,
    For this immediate levy, he commends
    His absolute commission. Long live Caesar! 2275
  • First Tribune. Is Lucius general of the forces?
  • Second Senator. Ay.
  • First Tribune. Remaining now in Gallia?
  • First Senator. With those legions
    Which I have spoke of, whereunto your levy 2280
    Must be supplyant: the words of your commission
    Will tie you to the numbers and the time
    Of their dispatch.
  • First Tribune. We will discharge our duty.

[Exeunt]