Very soon after this he expired.
In the mean time, Octavius had heard of the mortal wound which Antony had given himself; for one of the by-standers had seized the sword the moment that the deed was done, and had hastened to carry it to Octavius, and to announce to him the death of his enemy.

Octavius immediately desired to get Cleopatra into his power.

He sent a messenger, therefore, to the tomb, who attempted to open a parley there with her.

Cleopatra talked with the messenger through the keyholes or crevices, but could not be induced to open the door.

The messenger reported these facts to Octavius.