15–16
COCK
Because in your ignorance, Micyllus, you have gone just as far astray as most people in regard to the rich. Take my word for it, they live a much more wretched life than we. I who talk to you have been both poor and rich repeatedly, and have tested every kind of life: after a little you shall hear about it all.
MICYLLUS
Yes, by Heaven, it is high time now for you to talk and tell me how you got transformed and what you know of each existence.
COCK
Listen; but first let me tell you thus much, that I have never seen anyone leading a happier life than you.
MICYLLUS
Than I, cock? I wish you no better luck yourself! You force me to curse you, you know. But begin with Euphorbus and tell me how you were transformed to Pythagoras, and then the rest of it till you get to the cock: for it is likely that you have seen many sights and had many adventures in your multifarious existences.
COCK
How my soul originally left Apollo, flew down to earth and entered into a human body and what sin it was condemned to expiate in that way would make a long story; besides, it is impious either for me to tell or for you to hear such things. But when I became Euphorbus. . .
MICYLLUS
But I,—who was I formerly, wondrous creature? First tell me whether I too was ever transformed like you. Cock Yes, certainly.
Then what was I? ‘Tell me if you can, for I want to know.
COCK
You were an Indian ant, one of the gold-digging kind.Herod. 3, 102.
