Timon of Athens

Before the Walls of Athens.

Enter two Senators and a Messenger.

First Sen.Thou hast painfully discover’d: are his files

As full as thy report?

Mess.I have spoke the least;

Besides, his expedition promises

Present approach.

Sec. Sen.We stand much hazard if they bring not Timon.

Mess.I met a courier, one mine ancient friend,

Whom, though in general part we were oppos’d,

Yet our old love made a particular force,

And made us speak like friends: this man was riding

From Alcibiades to Timon’s cave,

With letters of entreaty, which imported

His fellowship i’ the cause against your city,

In part for his sake mov’d.

First Sen.Here come our brothers.

Enter Senators from TIMON.

Third Sen.No talk of Timon, nothing of him expect.

The enemies’ drum is heard, and fearful scouring

Doth choke the air with dust. In, and prepare:

Ours is the fall, I fear; our foes the snare.[Exeunt.