Tigellinus.

Magnificent.

Sen. ’Tis generously meant, most generously. But is it possible?

Ner. Why not?

Sen. The treasury, Eased of this sum, must fill the deficit By other means. If you cut off the customs, You must increase the tributes, rates, and rents. If one shoe pinches, ’tis no remedy To stuff both feet in the other.

Ner. But my scheme Has precedent; there was no tallage taken Throughout all Italy for some six years Ere Julius.

Sen. Ay, but he restored the customs As needful.

Ner. Whence they seemed the price of empire.

Sen. Unjustly. In the times of greatest liberty Consuls and tribunes have ordained new customs, Which yet remain.

Tig. I praise the scheme.

Ner. (to Bur.) And you?

Bur. Where look you then for revenue?

Ner. The rents, We’ll have the rents. The land....

Enter Messenger with Officer of the Guard.

Why, who is this? Whence come you, man?