3–4
Leontichus We met. The barbarian drew first blood—just a scratch with his lance a little above the knee; but my great spear drove through his shield and right into the breast-bone. Then I ran up, just sliced his head off with my sword, and came back carrying his arms, the head spiked on my spear dripping gore upon me.
Hymnis How horrid, Leontichus! what disgusting frightful tales you tell about yourself! What girl would look at a man who likes such nastiness—let alone drink or sleep with him? I am going away.
Leontichus Pooh! I double your pay.
Hymnis No, nothing shall induce me to sleep with a murderer.
Leontichus Don’t be afraid, my dear. All that was in Paphlagonia. I am a man of peace now.
Hymnis No, you are unclean; the blood of the barbarian’s head on the spear has dripped over you! I embrace and kiss a man like that? the Graces forbid! he is no better than the executioner.
5
Leontichus I am certain you would be in love with me if you had seen me in my armour.
Hymnis I tell you it makes me sick and frightened even to hear of such things; I see the shades and ghosts of the slain; that poor officer with his head cloven! what would it be if I saw the thing done, and the blood, and the bodies lying there? I am sure I should die; I never saw a chicken killed, even.
Leontichus Such a coward, girl? so poor of heart? I thought you would like to hear it.
