_Bur._ I have heard it said the German warriors, Meet o’er their cups, and, hot with wine, resolve Matters of state; but ere they put in act Their midnight policy, they meet again In morning hours to see if sober sense Approve what frenzied zeal inspired. The custom Has been applauded. Chance has given to you The one half of the method: use the other. _Ner._ I am not drunk. 2130 _Bur._ Such wandering judgment, Cæsar, Asks such excuse. _Ner._ My judgment wanders not. I am cool. My face is flushed?... _Bur._ How will this look If, sitting here at table, at a breath Of hearsay you commit to instant death Your mother and four noble citizens, With others of less note? _Ner._ Choose I the time? Shall the conspirators be pardoned then ’Cause Cæsar sups? or say Cæsar must fast And touch no wine, lest when his blood be warm Some treasonous practice creep into his ears, 2140 And they who would befriend conspiracy May point suspicion on his judgment! Now Is a good hour for treason; Cæsar sups, And must not credit it. _Bur._ I do not blame Your feast. _Ner._ No more then: let it be to-night. _Bur._ What! on a charge unproven? _Ner._ Thou may’st prove it. _Bur._ See, you acquit me; why not then the rest? _Ner._ Acquit my mother! would’st thou persuade me, Burrus, She can be acquitted? _Bur._ Of the deeds she has done She is guilty; for this action charged against her, It is not hers. _Ner._ Oh, more, much more is hers 2151 Than thou dost dream. The crime men charge on me, My brother’s death, Burrus, indeed, I swear, Though thou believe me not, yet if my part In that were separate and weighed ’gainst hers ... I would not tell thee... Oh, I had been happy had I But heard thee then. _Bur._ Your peace even now as much Hangs on good counsel. You are hot: be guided, Cæsar.