Act II. Scene I.

Brutus feels that the fact the visitors are hiding their faces makes their intent seem sinister. Brutus does not approve of sneaking around, and he thinks that looking sinister makes them appear all the more sinister. He notes that if they must hide their faces at night, what will they do in the light of day. Thus, they should hide their intent behind smiles and friendliness rather than hoods.

"They are the faction. O conspiracy,

Shamest thou to show thy dangerous brow by night

When evils are most free? O, then by day

Where wilt thou find a cavern dark enough

To mask thy monstrous visage? Seek none, conspiracy.

Hide it in smiles and affability."