There’s one did laugh in’s sleep, and one cried “Murder!” That they did wake each other: I stood and heard them: But they did say their prayers, and address’d them Again to sleep.

One cried “God bless us!” and “Amen” the other; As they had seen me with these hangman’s hands. Listening their fear, I could not say “Amen,” When they did say “God bless us!”

But wherefore could not I pronounce “Amen”? I had most need of blessing, and “Amen” Stuck in my throat.

These deeds must not be thought After these ways; so, it will make us mad.

Methought I heard a voice cry “Sleep no more! Macbeth does murder sleep,” the innocent sleep, Sleep that knits up the ravell’d sleave of care, The death of each day’s life, sore labour’s bath, Balm of hurt minds, great nature’s second course, Chief nourisher in life’s feast⁠—