What if we should attune them to our plans?
With them all Gaul will rise up in revolt;
And stir up strife against our enemies.

CATILINE. [Reluctant.]
Ah, we should seek barbarian allies?

LENTULUS. But such a league is a necessity.
With our own strength alone the fight is lost;
Help from without--

CATILINE. [With a bitter smile.] Ah, Rome is fallen low!
Her walls no longer harbor men with strength
Enough to overthrow a tottering ruin!

[They go out.]

* * * * *

[A garden to the rear of CATILINE's house, which is
visible through the trees. To the left a
side-building.]

[CURIUS, CETHEGUS, and OTHER CONSPIRATORS enter
cautiously from the right in whispered conversation.]

CURIUS. But is it really true what you relate?

CETHEGUS. Yes, every word is true. A moment since
It was decided.