Nero.

Fear not, I have dined.

Tig. Dined well, I pray the gods.

Ner. Superbly.— We sent to speak with thee of Seneca; What should be done.

Tig. What hath been done already?

Ner. Hark, I will tell thee. I sent a letter to him, Pressing the information of Natalis;— ‘Why, if thou knewest of this plot’—I said— ‘Didst not thou warn me? And if thou knewest not, What was thy reason why thou didst refuse Audience to Piso, alleging that such meetings Were good for neither; adding also, I hold Thy life needful for mine?’ Now I await His answer.

Tig. The tribune is returned.

Ner. Impossible; Seneca is in Campania.

Tig. Nay, your majesty; He is in the suburbs: he returned to-day, Trusting his wit before his innocence.

Ner. Go, fetch the tribune in. [Exit Tigellinus.