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Forbear, my child, thy tears are all in vain.

Cæsar forbids all further interruption To his imperial sentence. Let Cordenius Forthwith prepare him for the fatal fight. This is mine office, and I must perform it. Disrobe thee, Maro, of those martial weeds.

Gladly; for Him I serve,—my glorious Master, Hath braced me with an armour that defies All hostile things; in which I'll strive more proudly Than I have ever fought in field or breach With Rome's or Nero's foes.

Cæsar desires thee also to remember, That no ignoble audience, e'en thy Emperor, And all the states of Rome, behold thy deeds.

Tell him my deeds shall witness'd be by those Compared to whom the Emperor of Rome,