iii.1 (469,6) But who did bid thee join with us?] The meaning of
this abrupt dialogue is this. The _perfect spy_, mentioned by Macbeth in
the foregoing scene, has, before they enter upon the stage, given them
the directions which were promised at the time of their agreement; yet
one of the murderers suborned suspects him of intending to betray them;
the other observes, that, by his exact knowledge of _what they were to
do_, he appears to be employed by Macbeth, and needs not be mistrusted.
III.iv.1 (470,9) You know your own degrees, sit down: at first,/And last
the hearty welcome] As this passage stands [sit down:/At first and
last], not only the numbers are very imperfect, but the sense, if any
can be found, weak and contemptible. The numbers will be improved by
reading,
--_sit down at first,
And last a hearty welcome_.
But for _last_ should then be written _next_. I believe the true reading
is,
_You know your own degrees, sit down_.--_To first
And last the hearty welcome_.
All of whatever degree, from the highest to the lowest, may be assured
that their visit is well received.
III.iv.14 (471,1) 'Tis better thee without, than he within] The sense
requires that this passage should be read thus:
_'Tis better_ thee _without, than_ him _within_.
That is, _I am better pleased that the blood of Banquo should be on thy
face than in his body_.
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