Lady Macbeth reads Macbeth's letter recounting the witches' prophecy and fears he is too gentle to seize the crown. Learning that Duncan will stay at Inverness, she calls on spirits to harden her for murder. Lady Macbeth tells Macbeth to appear welcoming while leaving the deadly plan to her.
SCENE VI. The same. Before the Castle.
HautboysAn early form of oboe with a loud, penetrating tone.. Servants of Macbeth attending.
Enter Duncan, Malcolm, Donalbain, Banquo, Lennox, Macduff, Ross, Angus and Attendants.
DUNCAN
This castle hath a pleasant seat. The airNimbly and sweetly recommends itselfUnto our gentle senses.
BANQUO
This guest of summer,The temple-haunting martletA swift-like bird that nests around buildings., does approve,By his loved mansionryA dwelling or nesting place., that the heaven’s breathSmells wooingly here: no juttya projecting part of a building, such as an overhanging ledge., friezecoarse woollen cloth used as a building covering or decorative surface.,Buttress, nor coign of vantageA projecting corner or elevated position affording a good view., but this birdhath made his pendant bed and procreantBreeding or bringing forth young. cradle.Where they most breed and haunt, I have observ’dThe air is delicate.
Enter Lady Macbeth.
DUNCAN
See, see, our honour’d hostess!—The love that follows us sometime is our trouble,Which still we thank as love. Herein I teach youHow you shall bid God ’ildto reward or requite, especially in an expression of thanks. us for your pains,And thank us for your trouble.
LADY MACBETH
All our service,In every point twice done, and then done double,Were poor and single business to contendAgainst those honours deep and broad wherewithYour Majesty loads our house: for those of old,And the late dignities heap’d up to them,We rest your hermits.
DUNCAN
Where’s the Thane of Cawdor?We cours’d him at the heels, and had a purposeTo be his purveyor: but he rides well;And his great love, sharp as his spur, hath holp himTo his home before us. Fair and noble hostess,We are your guest tonight.
LADY MACBETH
Your servants everHave theirs, themselves, and what is theirs, in comptAn account or reckoning.,To make their audit at your Highness’ pleasure,Still to return your own.
DUNCAN
Give me your hand;Conduct me to mine host: we love him highly,And shall continue our graces towards him.By your leave, hostess.
Exeunta stage direction indicating that two or more characters leave the stage..