Question

Scene i. dunsinane. a room in the castle. [enter a doctor of physic and a waiting-gentlewoman.] doctor. i have two nights watched with you, but can perceive no truth in your report. when was it she last walked? gentlewoman. since his majesty went into the field, i have seen her rise from her bed, throw her nightgown upon her, unlock her closet, take forth paper, fold it, write upon it, read it, afterwards seal it, and again return to bed; yet all this while in a most fast sleep. doctor. a great perturbation in nature,—to receive at once the benefit of sleep, and do the effects of watching— in this slumbery agitation, besides her walking and other actual performances, what, at any time, have you heard her say? gentlewoman. that, sir, which i will not report after her. doctor. you may to me; and 'tis most meet you should.

Answer 1

DOCTOR

I’ve stayed up with you for two nights now, and I haven’t seen any evidence of what you were talking about. When was the last time you saw her sleepwalking?

GENTLEWOMAN

Since Macbeth went to war, I have seen her rise from her bed, put on her nightgown, unlock her closet, take out some paper, fold it, write on it, read it, seal it up, and then return to bed, remaining asleep the entire time.

DOCTOR

It’s unnatural to be asleep and act as if you’re awake. When she is like this, besides walking and performing various activities, have you heard her say anything?

GENTLEWOMAN

She says something, sir, but I will not repeat it to you.