Internet Shakespeare Editions

About this text

  • Title: Cymbeline (Modern)
  • Editor: Jennifer Forsyth
  • ISBN: 1-55058-300-X

    Copyright Jennifer Forsyth. This text may be freely used for educational, non-profit purposes; for all other uses contact the Editor.
    Author: William Shakespeare
    Editor: Jennifer Forsyth
    Peer Reviewed

    Cymbeline (Modern)

    [3.7]
    Enter two Roman Senators and Tribunes
    1 Senator
    This is the tenor of the emperor's writ:
    That since the common men are now in action
    2200'Gainst the Pannonians and Dalmatians,
    And that the legions now in Gallia are
    Full weak to undertake our wars against
    The fallen-off Britons, that we do incite
    The gentry to this business. He creates
    2205Lucius proconsul, and to you the tribunes,
    For this immediate levy, he commands
    His absolute commission. Long live Caesar!
    Tribune
    Is Lucius general of the forces?
    2 Senator
    Aye.
    2210Tribune
    Remaining now in Gallia?
    1 Senator
    With those legions
    Which I have spoke of, whereunto your levy
    Must be suppliant. The words of your commission
    Will tie you to the numbers and the time
    2215Of their dispatch.
    Tribune
    We will discharge our duty.
    Exeunt