Romans, countrymen, and lovers,
hear me for my cause,
and be silent that you may hear.
Believe me for mine honour,
and have respect to mine honour,
That you may believe.
Censure me in your wisdom, and
awake your senses, that you may
the better judge.
If there be any in this assembly, and
dear friend of Caesar's, to him I say
that Brutus' love to Caesar was no
less than his.
If then that friend demand why
Brutus rose against Caesar, this is
my answer:
NOT THAT I LOVED CAESAR LESS, BUT THAT
I LOVED ROME MORE.
Had you rather Caesar were living,
and die all slaves, than that Caesar
were dead, to live all freemen?
As Caesar loved me, I weep for him;
as he was fortunate, I rejoice at it;
as he was valiant, I honour him; but--
as he was ambitious, I slew him.
There is tears for his love; joy for his fortune;
honour for his valour; and death for his ambition.
Who is here so base that would be a bondman?
If any, speak; for him have I offended.
Who is here so rude that would not be a Roman?
If any, speak; for him have I offended.
Who is here so vile that will not love his country?
If any, speak; for him have I offended.

I pause for a reply.