'
Martius gave good ear unto his mother's words, without interrupting
her speech at all, and after she had said what she would, he held
his peace a pretty while, and answered not a word. Hereupon she
began again to speak unto him, and said; 'My son, why dost thou not
answer me? Dost thou think it good altogether to give place unto thy
choler and desire of revenge, and thinkest thou it not honesty for
thee to grant thy mother's request in so weighty a cause? Dost thou
take it honourable for a nobleman, to remember the wrongs and
injuries done him, and dost not in like case think it an honest
nobleman's part to be thankful for the goodness that parents do show
to their children, acknowledging the duty and reverence they ought
to bear unto them? No man living is more bound to show himself
thankful in all parts and respects than thyself; who so universally
showest all ingratitude. Moreover, my son, thou hast sorely taken of
thy country, exacting grievous payments upon them, in revenge of the
injuries offered thee; besides, thou hast not hitherto showed thy
poor mother any courtesy. And therefore it is not only honest, but
due unto me, that without compulsion I should obtain my so just and
reasonable request of thee. But since by reason I cannot persuade
thee to it, to what purpose do I defer my last hope?' And with these
words herself, his wife and children, fell down upon their knees
before him: Martius seeing that, could refrain no longer, but went
straight and lifted her up, crying out, 'Oh mother, what have you
done to me?' And holding her hard by the right hand, 'Oh mother,'
said he, 'you have won a happy victory for your country, but mortal
and unhappy for your son: for I see myself vanquished by you alone.
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