University of Virginia Library

SCENE XII.

Cæcina, Marcus.
Cæcina.
Ha! Marcus, speak; what fraud? what stratagem?—

Marcus.
While the barbarians riot in their camp,
Their troops in silent order have advanc'd,
And now invest our ramparts.

Enter Valerius.
Valerius.
Haste, or all is lost;
At the Præterian gate collect our strength—

Cæcina.
Be that my care; go, where our works are weak;
There make your firmest stand.

[Exit, followed by soldiers.
Enter a Soldier.
Soldier.
Marcus, this way;
Haste to the Decuman; that gate's in danger.

Marcus.
Valerius, come; the time demands our swords.

Soldier.
They've burst the pallisades, and o'er the Fosse
Have laid a bridge of hurdles; some already
Have burst into the camp; their wives and daughters,
Kindling their fury, follow in the rear.

Marcus.
Valerius, come; the time demands our valour.

[A sound of trumpets, Exeunt Valerius, Marcus, and Soldiers.