Internet Shakespeare Editions

Author: William Shakespeare
Editor: Randall Martin
Not Peer Reviewed

Anthony and Cleopatra (Modern)

[4.3]
Enter a company of Soldiers.
First Soldier
Brother, goodnight. Tomorrow is the day.
Second Soldier
It will determine one way. Fare you well.
2470Heard you of nothing strange about the streets?
First Soldier
Nothing. What news?
Second Soldier
Belike 'tis but a rumor. Good night to you.
First Soldier
Well, sir, good night.
[Enter other Soldiers meeting them].
2475Second Soldier
Soldiers, have careful watch.
Third Soldier
And you. Goodnight, goodnight.
They place themselves in every corner of the stage.
Second Soldier
Here we; and if tomorrow our navy thrive,
I have an absolute hope 2480our landmen will stand up.
First Soldier
'Tis a brave army, and full of purpose.
Music of the hautboys is under the stage.
Second Soldier
Peace, what noise?
First Soldier
List, list!
2485Second Soldier
Hark!
First Soldier
Music i'th'air.
Third Soldier
Under the earth.
Fourth Soldier
It signs well, does it not?
Third Soldier
No.
2490First Soldier
Peace, I say! What should this mean?
Second Soldier
'Tis the god Hercules, whom Antony loved,
Now leaves him.
First Soldier
Walk. Let's see if other watchmen
Do hear what we do.
2495Second Soldier
How now, masters?
All Soldiers
[Speaking together] How now?
How now? Do you hear this?
First Soldier
Ay is't not strange?
Third Soldier
Do you hear, masters? Do you hear?
First Soldier
Follow the noise so far as we have quarter.
2500Let's see how it will give off.
All Soldiers
Content. 'Tis strange.
Exeunt.