Perde 2
[Textpart 1]
If the immortal Gods have so willed it that you should undergo this affliction, it becomes you to endure it with equanimity; if you do so, your trouble will be lighterWill be lighter: The English proverb corresponds with this: What can’t be cured must be endured.. At home you were free men, I suppose; now if slavery has befallen you, ‘tis a becoming way for you to put up with it, and by your dispositions to render it light, under a master’s rule.
195
A SLAVE
Unworthy actions which a master does must be deemed worthy ones.
200
PHILOCRATES and TYNDARUS
Alas! alas! alas!
200
A SLAVE
There’s no need for wailing; you cause much injury to your eyes. In adversity, if you use fortitude of mind, it is of service.
PHILOCRATES and TYNDARUS
But we are ashamed, because we are in bonds.
A SLAVE
But in the result it might cause vexation to our master, if he were to release you from chains,
or allow you to be loose, whom he has purchased with his money.
205
PHILOCRATES and TYNDARUS
What does he fear from us? We know our duty, what it is, if he allows us to be loose.
A SLAVE
Why, you are meditating escape. I know what it is you are devising.
PHILOCRATES and TYNDARUS
We, make our escape? Whither should we escape?
A SLAVE
To your own country.
PHILOCRATES and TYNDARUS
Out upon you; it would ill befit us to be following the example of runaways.
A SLAVE
Why, faith, should there be an opportunity, I don’t advise you not.
210
PHILOCRATES and TYNDARUS
Do you allow us to make one request.
A SLAVE
What is it, pray?
PHILOCRATES and TYNDARUS
That you will give us an opportunity of conversing, without these and yourselves for overlookers.
A SLAVE
Be it so; go you away from here, you people. Let’s step here, on one side.
But commence upon a short conversation only.
215
PHILOCRATES
O yes, it was my intention so to do. Step aside this way.
215
A SLAVE
Stand apart from them.
