Perde 1
[Textpart 1]
Why, then, e’en let this son of Thetis lose them; the daughters of Nereus will bring him others.
35
EPIDICUS
Only this must be looked to, that material may be found for the armourers, if in each campaign he yields a spoil to the enemy.
THESPRIO
Have done now with these matters.
EPIDICUS
You yourself make an end of them when you please.
THESPRIO
Cease your enquiries then.
40
EPIDICUS
Say, where is Stratippocles himself?
40
THESPRIO
There is a reason, for which reason he has been afraid to come together with me.
EPIDICUS
Pray, what is it?
THESPRIO
He doesn’t wish to see his father as yet.
EPIDICUS
For what reason?
THESPRIO
You shall hear; because he has purchased out of the spoil a young female captive of charming and genteel figure.
EPIDICUS
What is it I hear from you?
THESPRIO
That which I’m telling you.
EPIDICUS
Why has he purchased her?
45
THESPRIO
To please his fancy.
45
EPIDICUS
How many fancies has this man? For assuredly, before he went away from home to the army, he himself commissioned me, that a music-girl whom he was in love with should be purchased of a Procurer for him. That I have managed to accomplish for him.
45
THESPRIO
Whichever way the wind is at sea, Epidicus, in that direction the sail is shifted.
EPIDICUS
Woe unto wretched me! He has utterly undone me!
50
THESPRIO
What’s the meaning of this? What’s the matter, pray?
50
EPIDICUS
Well now—she whom he has bought, at what sum has he purchased her?
