Claudius.
Var.
Calls my Lord?
Bru.
I pray you, Sirs, lie in my Tent, and sleep;
It may be, I shall raise you by and by,
On business to my brother Cassius.
Var.
So please you, we will stand, and watch your pleasure.
Bru.
I will not have it so; lie down, good Sirs:
It may be, I shall otherwise bethink me.
Look, Lucius, here's the book I sought for so;
I put it in the pocket of my gown.
Luc.
I was sure, your Lordship did not give it me.
Bru.
Bear with me, good boy, I am much forgetful.
Canst thou hold up thy heavy eyes a while,
And touch thy instrument, a strain or two?
Luc.
Ay, my Lord, an't please you.
Bru.
It does, my boy;
I trouble thee too much, but thou art willing.
Luc.
It is my duty, Sir.
Bru.
I should not urge thy duty past thy might;
I know, young bloods look for a time of rest.
Luc.
I have slept, my Lord, already.
Bru.
It was well done, and thou shalt sleep again;
-- 85 --
I will not hold thee long. If I do live,
I will be good to thee.
[Musick and a Song.
This is a sleepy tune—O murd'rous slumber!
Lay'st thou thy leaden mace upon my boy,
That plays thee musick?—Gentle knave, good night.
I will not do thee so much wrong to wake thee.
If thou dost nod, thou break'st thy instrument,
I'll take it from thee; and, good boy, good night.
—But let me see—is not the leaf turn'd down,
Where I left reading? Here it is, I think.
[He sits down to read.
Samuel Johnson [1765], The plays of William Shakespeare, in eight volumes, with the corrections and illustrations of Various Commentators; To which are added notes by Sam. Johnson (Printed for J. and R. Tonson [and] C. Corbet [etc.], London) [word count] [S11001].