Do not desert the Commonwealth! Do not hand us back to new ruin, new tyrants, new wars! Strike, strike, and so be merciful! Surely the gods have not led you thus far, and no farther! But yesterday you said they were leading us.
To-day they still must guide! To you it has been given to pull down and to build up.

Fail not! If there be gods, trust in them! If there be none slay me first, then do whatever you will!" Caesar shook himself.

His voice was harsh with command.
"Unhand me! I must accomplish my own fate!" and then, in a totally different tone, "Quintus Drusus, I have been a coward for the first time in my life.

Are you ashamed of your general ?" "I never admired you more, Imperator." "Thank you.

And will you go aside a little, please?
I will need a few moments for meditation." Drusus hesitated.