Perde 2
[Textpart 1]
How say you, Byrrhia? Is she to be given in marriage to Pamphilus to-day?
CHARINUS
How do you know?
BYRRHIA
I heard it just now from Davus at the Forum.
CHARINUS
Woe unto wretched me! As, hitherto, until now, my mind has been racked amid hope and fear; so, since hope has been withdrawn, wearied with care, it sinks overwhelmed.
BYRRHIA
By my troth, Charinus, since that which you wish can not come to pass, prithee, do wish that which can.
305
CHARINUS
I wish for nothing else but Philumena.
BYRRHIA
Alas! How much better were it for you to endeavor to expel that passion from your mind, than to be saying that by which your desire is to no purpose still more inflamed.
CHARINUS
We all, when we are well, with ease give good advice to the sick. If you were in my situation, you would think otherwise.
BYRRHIA
Well, well, just as you like.
310
CHARINUS
But I see Pamphilus; I’m determined I’ll try every thing before I despair.
310
BYRRHIA
What does he mean?
CHARINUS
I will entreat his own self; I will supplicate him; I will disclose to him my love. I think that I shall prevail upon him to put off the marriage for some days at least; in the mean time, something will turn up, I trust.
BYRRHIA
That something is nothing.
how seems it to you? Shall I accost him?
315
BYRRHIA
Why not? Should you not prevail, that at least he may look upon you as a gallant ready provided for him, if he marries her.
315
CHARINUS
Away with you to perdition with that vile suggestion, you rascal!
PAMPHILUS
I espy Charinus. (Accosting him.) Good-morrow!
CHARINUS
O, good-morrow. Pamphilus, I’m come to you, seeking hope, safety, counsel, and assistance.
