Lennox and another lord are talking politics. For his part, Lennox is pretty suspicious of Macbeth and doesn’t believe the new king’s version of recent events. We learn that Macduff has fled to England, where he’s joined up with Malcolm. They’re trying to get the King of England on board with a plan to overthrow Macbeth. The unnamed Lord also tells Lennox that Macbeth has heard these rumors and is prepping for all out war.
Lennox
What I’ve said earlier is exactly what you’ve been thinking, so I’m sure you can guess what I’m about to say. I just want to add that very strange things have been happening. It’s true that Macbeth pitied gracious Duncan - but now Duncan’s dead. And brave Banquo took a walk outside too late. You could say that Fleance killed him, because Fleance ran away. Men should not walk outside too late. Who wouldn’t be horrified to think of Malcolm and Donalbain killing their gracious father? A hellish deed! And how it grieved Macbeth! Didn’t he kill, in a righteous rage, the two suspects when they were drunk and fast sleep?
Wasn’t that noble? Yes, and it was a wise move too. For it would have enraged anyone to hear them deny they did it. So, I’ll say, Macbeth has held up well. And I think that if he had Duncan’s sons imprisoned – may Heaven prevent that– they’d find out what happens if you kill your father. So would Fleance – but enough of that. I hear that Macduff’s been disgraced for being outspoken and not going to the feast of Macbeth the tyrant. Sir, do you know where he’s living now?
Lord
Duncan’s older son Malcolm is living at the English court, since he’s had his rightful throne withheld from him by the tyrant. Malcolm’s been received by the righteous King Edward so gracefully that even Malcolm’s terrible misfortunes don’t diminish the respect that he gets there. That’s where Macduff is going to ask the holy king for his help in rousing the nobles Northumberland and Siward for war. With their help – if God is willing – we can go back to eating and sleeping well. Our feasts and banquets will be free from bloody crimes, and we will be able to freely give our service and be honored for it. We can’t do any of this right now. Hearing about this has made Macbeth so angry that he’s preparing for war.
Lennox
Did he send for Macduff?
Lord
He did. Macduff replied with an absolute 'Sir, I won’t'. But as the gloomy messenger turned to go, he mumbled, as if to say 'you'll regret the time you weighed me down with this answer.'
Lennox
That should tell Macduff to be wary, and to keep a wise distance. If only some holy angel would fly to the court of England and deliver Macduff’s message before he arrives. Then a blessing would soon come to our country which has for two long suffered under the hand of a tyrant.
Lord
I’ll send my prayers along with Macduff.
