Читать книгу The Comedies of Terence - Terence - Страница 18
SCENE VI.
ОглавлениеEnter Byrrhia behind.
Byr. To-day my master bade me leave all else
For Pamphilus, and watch how he proceeds,
About his marriage; wherefore I have now
Followed the old man hither: yonder too
Stands Pamphilus himself, and with him Davus.
To business then!
Simo. I see them both together.
Davus. Now mind. (Apart to Pam.)
Simo. Here, Pamphilus!
Davus. Now turn about,
As taken unawares. (Apart.)
Pam. Who calls? my father!
Davus. Well said! (Apart.)
Pam. Who calls? my father! (Apart.)
Simo. It is my pleasure, that to-day,
As I have told you once before, you marry.
Davus. Now on our part, I fear what he’ll reply. (Aside.)
Pam. In that, and all the rest of your commands,
I shall be ready to obey you, Sir!
Byr. How’s that! (Overhearing.)
Davus. Struck dumb. (Aside.)
Byr. What said he? (Listening.)
Simo. You perform
Your duty, when you cheerfully comply
With my desires.
Davus. There! said I not the truth? (Apart to Pam.)
Byr. My master then, so far as I can find,
May whistle for a wife.
Simo. Now then go in
That when you’re wanted you be found.
Pam. I go.
Exit.
Byr. Is there no faith in the affairs of men?
’Tis an old saying and a true one too;
“Of all mankind each loves himself the best.”
I’ve seen the lady; know her beautiful;
And therefore sooner pardon Pamphilus,
If he had rather win her to his arms,
Than yield her to th’ embraces of my master.
I will go bear these tidings, and receive
Much evil treatment for my evil news.
Exit.