To stay the providence of some high powers
That govern us below.
Cas. Then, if we lose this battle,108
You are contented to be led in triumph
Thorough the streets of Rome?
Bru. No, Cassius, no: think not, thou noble Roman,
That ever Brutus will go bound to Rome;112
He bears too great a mind: but this same day
Must end that work the ides of March begun;
And whether we shall meet again I know not.
Therefore our everlasting farewell take:116
For ever, and for ever, farewell, Cassius.
If we do meet again, why, we shall smile;
If not, why then this parting was well made.
Cas. For ever, and for ever, farewell, Brutus.
If we do meet again, we'll smile indeed;121
If not, 'tis true this parting was well made.
Bru. Why, then, lead on. O, that a man might know
The end of this day's business, ere it come!124
But it sufficeth that the day will end,
And then the end is known. Come, ho! away!
Scene Two
[The Same. The Field of Battle]
Alarum. Enter Brutus and Messala.
Bru. Ride, ride, Messala, ride, and give these bills
Unto the legions on the other side.Loud alarum.
Let them set on at once, for I perceive
But cold demeanour in Octavius' wing,4
107 stay: await, submit to
111-115 Cf. n.
1 bills: written orders
2 side: wing, commanded by Cassius
4 cold demeanour: faint-heartedness
