Perde 1
[Textpart 1]
You said that you were Amphitryon’s Sosia.
SOSIA
I made a mistake; but this I meant to say, that I was Amphitryon’s associate Associate: This poor pun is founded on the similarity of sound between Sosia and socius, a companion or associate..
MERCURY
Why, I was sure that we had no servant called Sosia except myself. Your senses are forsaking you.
385
SOSIA
I wish that those fists of yours had done so.
MERCURY
I am that Sosia, whom you were just now telling me that you are.
SOSIA
I pray that I may be allowed to discourse with you in quietness, so as not to be beaten.
MERCURY
Well then, let there be a truce for a short time, if you want to say anything.
SOSIA
I’ll not speak unless peace is concluded, since you are the stronger with your fists.
390
MERCURY
If you wish to say anything, speak; I’ll not hurt you.
SOSIA
Am I to trust in your word?
SOSIA
What, if you deceive me?
MERCURY
Why, then may Mercury be angry with Sosia Angry with Sosia: There is something comical in the absurdity of this oath. Mercury, personating Sosia, says that if he breaks it, the result must be that Mercury (i. e., himself): will be angry with Sosia, the person in whose favour he is pretending to take the oath..
SOSIA
Then give attention: now I’m at liberty to say in freedom anything I please. I am Sosia, servant of Amphitryon.
SOSIA
I have concluded the peace, ratified the treaty—I speak the truth.
395
MERCURY
Take that, then.
395
SOSIA
As you please, and what you please, pray do, since you are the stronger with your fists. But whatever you shall do, still, upon my faith, I really shall not be silent about that.
MERCURY
So long as you live, you shall never make me to be any other than Sosia at this moment.
SOSIA
I’ faith, you certainly shall never make me to be any other person than my own self;
