 Marcellus 

concurs with Horatio, as he and the other guards have observed

that their schedules have become more rigorous and have also noticed the
preparations taking place within Elsinore, including the building of cannons,
the storing of weapons, and the preparation of ships.
o Horatio admits he's heard whispers around the castle. He speaks
about the late King Hamlet defeating Norway's King Fortinbras in a
duel, resulting in Denmark acquiring certain Norwegian territories
according to the two kings' agreement.
o Now, Horatio has heard that Fortinbras's son, also
named Fortinbras, has assembled an army to sail to Denmark,
reclaim his father's lands, and reestablish Norway's honor.
o Horatio insists that they should take the ghost's omen seriously.

 Suddenly, the ghost comes back. Horatio commands it to halt.

o The ghost stops and spreads out its arms. Horatio pleads with the
ghost to speak—if it can—and inform them of Denmark's impending
fate.
o Horatio begs that it reveal any other unfinished matters it might
have, even if unrelated to war, so they can assist it in finding peace.
o A rooster crows, causing Marcellus and Barnardo to fear that
daybreak will force the ghost to leave.
 They discuss how to prevent its departure, but their plans are
futile—the ghost vanishes once more.

 The men regret missing the opportunity to speak with the ghost.

o Horatio suggests that Marcellus and Barnardo accompany him
to Prince Hamlet's quarters to inform him of their encounter.
o Although the ghost of King Hamlet wouldn't speak to them, Horatio
believes it may communicate with its son.
Summary