To us in our election this day, I give thee thanks in part of thy deserts, And will with deeds requite thy gentleness: And, for an onset, Titus, to advance Thy name and honourable family, Lavinia will I make my empress, Rome's royal mistress, mistress of my heart, And in the sacred Pantheon her espouse: Tell me, Andronicus, doth this motion please thee? It doth, my worthy lord; and in this match I hold me highly honour'd of your grace: And here in sight of Rome to Saturnine, King and commander of our commonweal, The wide world's emperor, do I consecrate My sword, my chariot and my prisoners; Presents well worthy Rome's imperial lord: Receive them then, the tribute that I owe, Mine honour's ensigns humbled at thy feet. Thanks, noble Titus, father of my life! How proud I am of thee and of thy gifts Rome shall record, and when I do forget The least of these unspeakable deserts, Romans, forget your fealty to me. Now, madam, are you prisoner to an emperor; To him that, for your honour and your state, Will use you nobly and your followers. A goodly lady, trust me; of the hue That I would choose, were I to choose anew. Clear up, fair queen, that cloudy countenance: Though chance of war hath wrought this change of cheer, Thou comest not to be made a scorn in Rome: Princely shall be thy usage every way. Rest on my word, and let not discontent Daunt all your hopes: madam, he comforts you Can make you greater than the Queen of Goths. Lavinia, you are not displeased with this? Not I, my lord; sith true nobility Warrants these words in princely courtesy. Thanks, sweet Lavinia. Romans, let us go; Ransomless here we set our prisoners free: Proclaim our honours, lords, with trump and drum. Lord Titus, by your leave, this maid is mine. How, sir! are you in earnest then, my lord? Ay, noble Titus; and resolved withal To do myself this reason and this right. 'Suum cuique' is our Roman justice: This prince in justice seizeth but his own. And that he will, and shall, if Lucius live. Traitors, avaunt! Where is the emperor's guard? Treason, my lord! Lavinia is surprised! Surprised! by whom? By him that justly may Bear his betroth'd from all the world away. Brothers, help to convey her hence away, And with my sword I'll keep this door safe. Follow, my lord, and I'll soon bring her back. My lord, you pass not