That were most precious to me. Did heaven look on
And would not take their part? Sinful Macduff,
225 They were all struck for thee. Naught that I am, Not for their own demerits but for mine
Fell slaughter on their souls. Heaven rest them now.
MALCOLM
Be this the whetstone of your sword. Let grief
Convert to anger; blunt not the heart, enrage it.
MACDUFF
230 O, I could play the woman with mine eyes And braggart with my tongue. But, gentle heavens,
232 Cut short all intermission. Front to front Bring thou this fiend of Scotland and myself.
Within my sword's length set him. If he scape,
Heaven forgive him too.
MALCOLM This tune goes manly.
236 Come, go we to the king. Our power is ready; 237 Our lack is nothing but our leave. Macbeth Is ripe for shaking, and the pow'rs above
239 Put on their instruments. Receive what cheer you may.
240 The night is long that never finds the day.
Exeunt.
V.1Enter a Doctor of Physic and a Waiting Gentlewoman.
DOCTOR I have two nights watched with you, but can perceive no truth in your report. When was it she last walked?
GENTLEWOMAN Since his majesty went into the field I have seen her rise from her bed, throw her nightgown5 upon her, unlock her closet, take forth paper, fold it,6 write upon't, read it, afterwards seal it, and again return to bed; yet all this while in a most fast sleep.
DOCTOR A great perturbation in nature, to receive at once the benefit of sleep and do the effects of watching.10 In this slumb'ry agitation, besides her walking and other actual performances, what at any time have you heard her say?
GENTLEWOMAN That, sir, which I will not report after her.
DOCTOR You may to me, and 'tis most meet you should.16
GENTLEWOMAN Neither to you nor anyone, having no17 witness to confirm my speech.
Enter Lady [Macbeth], with a taper.
Lo you, here she comes. This is her very guise, and,19 upon my life, fast asleep. Observe her; stand close.20
DOCTOR How came she by that light?
GENTLEWOMAN Why, it stood by her. She has light by her continually. 'Tis her command.
DOCTOR You see her eyes are open.
GENTLEWOMAN Ay, but their sense are shut.