1 Th attempt and not the deed Confounds us.
2 To know my deed, 'twere best not know myself.'
3 Tis unnatural, Even like the deed that's done.
4 Words to the heat of deeds too cold breath gives.
5 Be innocent of the knowledge, dearest chuck, Till thou applaud the deed.
6 These deeds must not be thought After these ways; so, it will make us mad.
7 Time, thou anticipat'st my dread exploits: The flighty purpose never is o'ertook Unless the deed go with it.
8 Unnatural deeds Do breed unnatural troubles: infected minds To their deaf pillows will discharge their secrets.
9 Malcolm and Donalbain, the King's two sons, Are stol'n away and fled; which puts upon them Suspicion of the deed.
10 He's here in double trust: First, as I am his kinsman and his subject, Strong both against the deed; then, as his host, Who should against his murderer shut the door, Not bear the knife myself.
11 Ere the bat hath flown His cloister'd flight, ere to black Hecate's summons The shard-born beetle, with his drowsy hums, Hath rung night's yawning peal, there shall be done A deed of dreadful note.
12 Besides, this Duncan Hath borne his faculties so meek, hath been So clear in his great office, that his virtues Will plead like angels, trumpet-tongued, against The deep damnation of his taking-off; And pity, like a naked new-born babe, Striding the blast, or heaven's cherubin, hors'd Upon the sightless couriers of the air, Shall blow the horrid deed in every eye, That tears shall drown the wind.