By the same principle that made me condemn Cato for committing
suicide, I plan to be patient and submit to what the gods decide. I
don't know why, but I find it cowardly and vile to kill
oneself early to prevent possible suffering later on.
CASSIUS
Then if we
lose this battle
110
You are contented to be led in triumph
Thorough the streets of Rome?
CASSIUS
Then if we lose this battle, you'll be willing to be led
in chains through the streets of Rome?
BRUTUS
No, Cassius, no. Think not, thou noble Roman,
That ever Brutus will go bound to Rome.
He bears too great a mind. But this same day
115
Must end that work the ides of March begun.
And whether we shall meet again I know not.
Therefore our everlasting farewell take.
Forever and forever farewell, Cassius.
If we do meet again, why, we shall smile.
120
If not, why then this parting was well made.
BRUTUS
No, Cassius, no. Don't imagine that I'll ever
allow myself to return to Rome in chains. My mind is too great for
that. But today, the work that March 15th began must end, and I
don't know if we'll meet again. Therefore, accept
my everlasting farewell. Forever and forever, farewell, Cassius! If
we meet again, then we'll smile. If not, then this parting
was well done.
CASSIUS
Forever and forever farewell, Brutus.
If we do meet again, we'll smile indeed.
If not, 'tis true this parting was well made.
CASSIUS
Forever and forever, farewell, Brutus! If we meet again, then
we'll smile indeed. If not, it's true, this
parting was well done.
BRUTUS
Why then, lead on. Oh, that a man might know
125
The end of this day's business ere it come!
But it sufficeth that the day will end,
And then the end is known.—Come, ho! Away!
BRUTUS
Well, lead on. Oh, I wish I could know what will happen today
before it happens! But it's enough to know that the day
will end, and then the end will be known. Come! Let's
go!