Antony and Cleopatra — Act 2, Scene 4: The same. A street.

Lepidus, Mecaenas, and Agrippa speak as the party prepares to move on after Antony’s farewell to Octavia. Lepidus tells them not to delay and to hasten after the generals. Agrippa explains that Antony will only kiss Octavia before they follow. Lepidus says he hopes to see them again in their soldier’s dress, which he says will suit them well, and wishes them farewell. Mecaenas remarks that, as he sees it, they will reach the Mount before Lepidus does. Lepidus answers that their route is shorter, while his own business will take him out of the way, so they will gain time on him. They exchange good wishes and leave.

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Trouble yourselves no further: pray you, hasten

Your generals after.

Sir, Mark Antony

Will e'en but kiss Octavia, and we'll follow.

Till I shall see you in your soldier's dress,

Which will become you both, farewell.

We shall,

As I conceive the journey, be at the Mount

Before you, Lepidus.

Your way is shorter;

My purposes do draw me much about:

You'll win two days upon me.

Sir, good success!

Farewell.