Perde 5
[Textpart 2]
I have found her, and she is at home. But how hard it is, when, for services done, you reap a harvest of evil.
APAECIDES
What, her whom this day we’ve both been weary with seeking throughout the city?
EPIDICUS
I’m weary with finding, you weary with seeking.
720
PERIPHIANES
Why do you entreat me thus earnestly in his behalf? For I find that he does deserve that I should be pleased to act according to his deserts. (To EPIDICUS.) Hold out your hands, you, that I may unbind them.
EPIDICUS
Don’t you touch them.
PERIPHIANES
But do you present them to me.
PERIPHIANES
You don’t do right.
EPIDICUS
Upon my faith, I’ll never allow myself to be unbound this day, unless you give me satisfaction.
PERIPHIANES
You ask what’s very fair and very just. Shoes, a tunic, and a cloak I’ll give you.
725
EPIDICUS
What next, after that?
PERIPHIANES
Your freedom.
EPIDICUS
But after that? There’s need for a new-made freed-man to pick a bit To pick a bit: Pappet. Pappo properly signifies to eat pap, as children do..
PERIPHIANES
It shall be given; I’ll find you food.
EPIDICUS
On my word, never this day shall you release me, unless you beg my pardon.
PERIPHIANES
I do entreat you, Epidicus, to forgive me, if unawares in fault I’ve done anything wrong.
But by way of return for this matter, be a free man.
730
EPIDICUS
Against my inclination do I grant you this pardon, but I’m compelled by necessity. Unbind them then, if you choose.
730
(coming forward.) This is that man who by his roguery By his roguery: — Malitia, artfulness. trickery. has gained his freedom. Clap your hands, and fare you well! Stretch your loins, and rise from your seats.
