Perde 5
[Textpart 8]
Now, Micio, you are indeed my brother, both in spirit and in body.
DEMEA
I foil him at his own weapon. At his ownweapon: He probably means, by aping the kind feeling which is a part of Micio’s character.
[Textpart 9]
It has been done as you ordered, Demea.
DEMEA
You are a worthy fellow. Upon my faith,—in my opinion, at least,—I think Syrus ought at once to be made free.
960
MICIO
He free! For what reason?
SYRUS
O my dear Demea! upon my word, you are a worthy man! I have strictly taken care of both these sons of yours, from childhood; I have taught, advised, and carefully instructed them in every thing I could.
DEMEA
The thing is evident; and then, besides all this, to cater for them, secretly bring, home a wench, prepare a morning entertainment;A morning entertainment: A banquet in the early part or middle of the day was considered by the Greeks a debauch. these are the accomplishments of no ordinary person.
965
SYRUS
O, what a delightful man!
DEMEA
Last of all, he assisted to-day in purchasing this Music-wench—he had the management of it; it is right he should be rewarded; other servants will be encouraged thereby: besides, he (pointing to AESCHINUS) desires it to be so.
MICIO
Do you desire this to be done?
970
AESCHINUS
I do wish it.
970
MICIO
Why then, if you desire it, just come hither, Syrus, to me (performing the ceremony of manumission); be a free man.Be a free man: He touches Syrus on the ear, and makes him free. The same occurs in the Epidicus of Plautus, Act V., Sc. 2, 1. 65.
970
SYRUS
You act generously; I return my thanks to you all;—and to you, Demea, in particular.
DEMEA
I congratulate you.
SYRUS
I believe you. I wish that this joy were made complete—that I could see my wife, Phrygia,My wife, Phrygia : The so-called marriage, or rather cohabitation, of the Roman slaves will be found treated upon in the Notes to Plautus. Syrus calls Phrygia his wife on anticipation that she will become a free woman. free as well.
DEMEA
Really, a most excellent woman.
975
SYRUS
And the first to suckle your grandchild, his son, today (pointing to AESCHINUS).
975
