 In the darkness of Elsinore's ramparts, 

Barnardo comes to relieve Francisco,
another sentinel, from his duty.

o As they encounter each other, both are cautious, even though Francisco
informs Barnardo that nothing has happened during his watch.
o As Francisco gets ready to depart, Barnardo asks him to tell Marcellus,
another guard, and Horatio, a nobleman, to join him.
 Just then, Marcellus and Horatio approach in the dark, making it
known that they're allies of Denmark and friends of the king.
 They ask Francisco, somewhat enviously, if he's finished his
watch, and then they say farewell as he leaves.

 Marcellus and Horatio greet Barnardo and inquire if the "thing" has shown

itself once more.

o Marcellus mentions that he and Barnardo have witnessed a terrifying

specter twice, but Horatio won't accept its existence.
 That's why Marcellus brought Horatio tonight—to witness the
phantom haunting the night.
o Horatio doubts anything will show up, so Barnardo starts talking about
seeing the ghost. But just as he starts, the ghost arrives.