[Prostrates himself before him.]

CATILINE. [Starts back.] Betrayed! What are you saying?

CURIUS. Betrayed by one in friendly guise!

CATILINE. You err;
These stormy friends are loyal even as you.

CURIUS. Then woe to you for all their loyalty!

CATILINE. Compose yourself! It is your love for me,
Your interest in my safety, that has wakened
Imaginary dangers in your mind.

CURIUS. Oh, do you know these words do murder me?
But flee! I do entreat you earnestly--

CATILINE. Be calm and speak your mind. Why should I flee?
The enemy knows not where I make my stand.

CURIUS. Indeed he does,--he knows your every plan!

CATILINE. What, are you mad? He knows--? Impossible!

CURIUS. Oh, were it so! But use the hour remaining;
Still you may save yourself perhaps in flight!

CATILINE. Betrayed? No,--ten times no; impossible!