Macbeth says this line to his wife, Lady Macbeth, in Act III scene ii. Macbeth has just ordered the murders of Banquo and Fleance (Banquo's son). He has made arrangements with the three hitmen and has returned to his chambers to speak to his wife. Macbeth expresses anxiety about Banquo and Fleance to his wife. His fear goes back to Act I when the witches told Macbeth and Banquo that Banquo would be father to kings. In an attempt to protect his own position as King, Macbeth feels he must eliminate both Banquo and his son.
Another element of the quote that is noteworthy is the term "dearest chuck." This is a term of endearment that shows that Macbeth has affection for his wife despite that fact that he is gradually becoming less human and more evil and power-hungry. It is implied here that Macbeth does not want to tell Lady Macbeth about his plans because he wants to protect her. It is possible, however, that he is afraid she would try to stop him if she were to find out what he is planning.
This scene is important to Macbeth's character development because it is starkly different from the way the murder of Duncan was planned. In Act I, Macbeth and Lady Macbeth plan the murder together and Macbeth commits the crime, but Lady Macbeth is very persuasive; it could even be argued that she is the mastermind of the original murder plan. At this point in Act III, Macbeth takes complete control of his own destiny and can no longer be influenced by any of his former confidants.
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