Original
Modern English
Thou hast painfully discover’d: are his files As full as thy report?
You’ve worked hard to find this out: are his reports As complete as what you’ve told us?
have spoke the least: Besides, his expedition promises Present approach.
I’ve said the least: Also, his journey suggests He’s coming soon.
We stand much hazard, if they bring not Timon.
We’re in great danger if they don’t bring Timon.
I met a courier, one mine ancient friend; Whom, though in general part we were opposed, 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 moved.
I met a messenger, an old friend of mine; Though we were generally enemies, Our past friendship made us put that aside, And we spoke as friends: this man was traveling From Alcibiades to Timon’s cave, With letters asking for his help in the cause against your city, Partly because of his own interests.
Here come our brothers.
Here come our companions.
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.
Don’t mention Timon, don’t talk about him at all. The sound of the enemy’s drum is heard, and the fearful dust Is choking the air: let’s go in and get ready: I fear we’re doomed; our enemies have set the trap.