LYCINUS Well then, you must read me a few passages from the book, so that I shan’t miss the feast entirely, I dare say you will properly “wine us with nectar” out of it.Lycinus is quoting a famous mixed metaphor in Homer (Iliad, I, 598 and IV, 3, with the scholia) and implies that he expects Lexiphanes to regale him similarly. LEXIPHANES Suppress Master Irony, then, and make your ears permeable before you give them to me. Avaunt with the obturations of Dame Cypselis!The name Cypselis (Waxy) is coined from cypselé (ear-wax). LYCINUS Say your say confidently, for no Cypselus nor any PerianderPeriander comes in because he too was a Cypselid. has taken up lodgings in my ears.
LEXIPHANES Consider withal how I carry myself in the book —whether it has a good entrance, a rich display of good discourse and composure,For εὔλεξις cf. A Professor of Public Speaking, 17 (IV, p. 157). and good store of egregious words. LYCINUS It is sure to have that, being yours. But do begin now.
