SERIES i ; ISSlil. of Latin Classics SI "1 LIBRARY UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA RIVERSIDE Etje Students' Scries of latin (Classics THE PHORMIO OF TERENCE SIMPLIFIED FOR THE USE OF SCHOOLS TRANSLATED BY H. R, FAIRCLOUGH, Ph.D. PROFESSOR OF LATIN, LELAND STANFORD JUNIOR UNIVERSITY AND LEON J. RICHARDSON, A.B. ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR OF LATIN UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA ov 7rdXX' aWa ttoXv BENJ. H. SANBORN & CO. BOSTON NEW YORK CHICAGO 1909 Copyright, 1909, By H. E. FAIECLOUGH and LEON J. EICHARDSON. Norixiooti i^rcss J. S. Cushing Co. — Berwick & Smith Co. Norwood, Mass., U.S.A. PERSONAE Demipho, an old man. Antipho, his son. Geta, a slave of Demipho. Davus, a slave, friend of Geta. Hegio Cratinus I legal advisers of Demipho. Crito Chremes, an old man, brother of Demipho. Nausistrata, his wife. Phaedria, his son. Sophrona, a nurse. Phormio, a parasite. Dorio, a slave dealer. The following do not appear : Phanium, daughter of Chremes and wife of Antipho. Pamphila, a slave girl loved by Phaedria. House of Chremes House of Demipho House of Dorio • (To the Harbor) Street (To the Forum) ■ Plan of Stage TRANSLATION ACT I Scene 1 \_Davus enters from the right, carrying a bag of money.] Davus Da. (to the audience) Geta, my fellow-countryman and greatest friend, came to me yesterday. For some time there had been in my hands a trifling balance of money due to him on a little account. This he begged me to make up. I have done so ; here it is. His master's son, I hear, has taken a wife ; it is as a present for her, I sup- pose, that this is scraped together. But isn't that Geta there? Scene 2 [Enter Geta from Demipho's house.'] Geta Davus Ge. (not seeing Davus, and calling to a slave within) If a red-haired man inquires for me — Da. Here he is ; say no more. Ge. (turning round) Oh ! why, I was trying to find you, Davus. Da. There, take it; it's good money; the number will agree with what I owed. 1 2 TERENCE [I. 2. 14-43 Ge. I am obliged to you, and am grateful for your not having forgotten me. Da. Especially as times are now. The world is coming to this pass, if a man repays you anything you must be very grateful. But why are you so grave ? Ge. I ? You don't know in what fear and peril we stand. Da. What is the matter ? Ge. You shall learn, if only you can keep the secret. Da. Away, you silly fellow ! When you have proved a man's faithfulness in a money matter, are you afraid to intrust him with words? And here, what do I gain in deceiving you? Ge. Well then, listen. Da. I'll give all my attention to you. Ge. Davus, do you know our old gentleman's elder brother, Chremes ? Da. Why, of course. Ge. Well, his son Phaedria ? Da. As well as I know you. Ge. It so happened with both the old gentlemen at the same time, that the one went on a journey to Lesbos, while ours went to see an old friend in Cilicia. He enticed the old gentleman by letters, promising all but mountains of gold. Da. When he had so much and plenty to spare? Ge. Say no more. That is his way. Da. Oh, 'tis I that ought to have been the man of wealth. Ge. On going abroad, both the old men left me here as a sort of guardian to their sons. Da. Geta, you undertook a hard task. Ge. Such was my experience, I know that. I am sure that I was left thus because my good Genius was 1. 2. 44-69J PHORMIO 3 angry. At first I began to oppose them. What need of words ? While proving my loyalty to the old men, I brought blows upon my shoulders (rub- bing them). Da. That's what occurred to my mind. Indeed, it is folly to kick against the pricks. Ge. I began to do everything for them, to humor their wishes. Da. You knew how to manage the market. Ge. Our young friend did no mischief at first. This Phaedria straightway found a certain lassie of a music-girl. He began to love her to distraction and wanted to marry her, but she was enslaved to an abominable master. Their fathers had taken care that they should have nothing to give away. All that remained for him was to feast his eyes, follow her up and down, and escort her to and from school. We, having nothing on our hands, devoted ourselves to Phaedria. Just opposite the school, in which she had her lessons, was a barber's shop. Here we would generally wait for her, till she left the place for home. One day, while we were sit- ting there, there came upon us a certain young man, in tears. We were surprised, and asked what was the trouble. " Never," said he, " has poverty ap- peared to me so pitiable and grievous a burden as but now. I have just seen in this neighborhood a poor girl lamenting her dead mother. The corpse was laid out opposite her, and not a single friend, acquaintance, or relative was with her, except one poor old dame, to assist in the funeral. I pitied her. The girl herself was strikingly beautiful." Why 4 TERENCE [I. 2. 70-93 need I dilate upon it ? He had moved us all. At once Antipho cried, " Would you like us to visit her? " Said another, "That's my view. Let us go. Lead us on, please." We go, arrive, see her. The girl was beautiful, and that you might say so more truly, there was nothing to heighten her beauty. Her hair dishevelled, her feet bare, herself slovenly, in tears and meanly clad ; so that, had there not been the essence of perfection in her very form, these defects would have extinguished her beauty. The one who was in love with that music-girl merely said, "She is pretty enough;" but our young gen- tleman — Da. (interrupting) I know already — fell in love. Ge. Do you know how deeply? See the result. The next day he goes straight to the old woman; he asks her who the girl's parents are, where she comes from, or who she is. He learns that she is an Athenian citizen, honest, and born of honest parents ; if he wanted to take her as wife, he could do so by law. What to do, our young man did not know ; he was anxious ,to wed her, and yet feared his absent father. Da. If his father had returned, would he not give him permission ? Ge. He permit him to wed a girl with neither fortune nor family ? He would never do it. Da. What comes of it finally ? Ge. What comes of it ? There is a parasite, one Phor- mio; a fellow of assurance; may all the gods con- found him ! Da. What did he do ? I. 2. 94-120] PHORMIO 5 Ge. He gave this piece of advice, of which I will tell you. " There is a law that orphan girls should wed their next of kin, and this same law orders such per- sons to marry them. I will say that you are a kins- man and enter an action against you. I'll pretend that I am a friend of the girl's father ; we will come before the judges; who her father was, who her mother, how she is akin to you, all this I'll invent, as far as shall be good and expedient for my pur- pose. You will disprove none of these statements, and of course I shall win. Your father will arrive ; a row is in store for me ; what care I ? The girl at any rate will be ours." Da. What amusing impudence! Ge. He was persuaded ; the plan was carried out ; they went to court ; we were beaten ; lie married her. Da. What is this you tell me ? Ge. Just what you hear. Da. Geta, what will become of you? Ge. Indeed I know not. This one thing I do know — whatever fortune brings, we'll bear it with resig- nation. Da. Well said ! Ay, that's a man's duty, (patting Geta on the back) Ge. All my hope is in myself. Da. What about that escort, who was in love with the music-girl ? How fares he ? Ge. (shrugging his shoulders) So so ! but poorly. Da. Perhaps he hasn't much to give ? Ge. Why, nothing but mere hope. Da. Has his father come back or not ? Ge. Not yet. 6 TERENCE [I. 2. 121-128 Da. Well, when do you expect your old gentleman ? Ge. I don't know for certain, but I've just heard that a letter has come from him and been left with the cus- tom-house officers. I'll go for it. Da. Do you want anything more with me, Geta ? Ge. Only that all may go well with yon. {Exit Davus.) Ho, boy ! Is nobody coming out here? (a slave ap- pears) Take this and give it to Dorcium. (Exit Geta to the left.) ACT II Scene 1 [Enter Antipho and Phaedria] Antipho Phaedria Ph. Others, for lack of what they love, are miserable; you grieve because of the surfeit. You, Antipho, have an abundance of love. For most assuredly this position of yours is to be coveted and desired. An. But on the other hand, you, Phaedria, now seem to me the happy one, you who still have the privilege of debating freely what you prefer, — to keep or drop your love. I, unfortunate one, have come into such a position that I can neither drop nor keep mine. But what means this? Don't I see Geta coming here at a run ? "lis he himself. Oh, I fear, wretched one, what news he is now bringing me. Scene 2 [Geta enters from the left, but does not notice Antipho and Phaedria.'] Ge. (to himself) It is all up with you, Geta, unless you now at once find some device. So many evils sud- denly threaten you now, while unprepared, — evils which I neither know how to shun nor how to free myself from ; for no longer now can our bold step be kept a secret. 7 8 TERENCE [II. 2. 17-48 An. (aside to Phaedria) Why is he coming thus perturbed ? Ge. Moreover, I have but a moment for this purpose. My master is near by. An. (aside to Phaedria) What mischief is this ? Ge. (to himself) When he hears this, what remedy shall I find for his anger ? (looking round) But where am I to find Antipho? Or which way set out to look for him ? Ph. (aside to Antipho) It is you he mentions. An. (aside to Phaedria) With such a messenger I look for some great misfortune. Ph. (to Antipho) Ah ! Ge. I'll start for home. He is generally there. Ph. (aside to Antipho) Let us call him back. An. Stop at once ! Ge. (without looking round) Well ! with authority enough, whoever you are. An. Geta! Ge. (looking round) The very man I wanted to meet. An. Tell me, I pray, what news ? and tell me in one word, if you can. Ge. I'll do so. An. Speak out. Ge. Just now at the harbor — An. My father ? Ge. You have hit it. An. Ruin ! Ph. What? An. What am I to do ? Ph. (to Geta) What is it you say ? Ge. That I have seen his father, your uncle. An. What remedy, pray, am I, unhappy one, to find for II. 2. 49-79] PHORMIO 9 this sudden misfortune ? But if my fortunes come to this pass, that I am torn from thee, Phanium, life is of no worth to me. Ge. Therefore, Antipho, since matters are thus, the more fitting is it for you to be on your guard. Fortune favors the brave. An. I am not myself. Ge. And yet, Antipho, at this particular moment you should be so ; for if your father perceives that you are alarmed, he will think you are guilty. Ph. That's true. An. I cannot change myself. Ge. What would you do, if now you had to do something else still more difficult ? An. Since I cannot do this, I should be less able to do that. Ge. That is nothing, Phaedria. Let us be off. Why do we waste time here idly ? Why don't I go off ? Ph. And I too ? {Both turn to go.) An. I pray you, what if I dissemble ? (striking an atti- tude) Will that do ? Ge. Nonsense ! An. Watch my face, (assuming a careless air) There, will that do? Ge. No! An. (ivith a bolder expression) What about this ? Ge. Pretty well. An. Or this ? Ge. That's it. Now keep to that and see that you an- swer him word for word, tit for tat, lest in his anger he overpower you with his savage taunts. An. I see. 10 TERENCE [II. 2. 80-104 Ge. Say that against your will you were forced. Ph. By law and the court. Ge. Do you understand ? (looking down the street) But who is the old man whom I see at the foot of the street ? It's he himself. An. I cannot stay, (taking to his heels) Ge. (calling after him) Oh, what are you about ? Where are you going, Antipho ? Stop, I tell you. An. (turning around as he leaves the stage) I know my- self and my offence. To you I intrust Phanium and my life. (Exit Antipho.) Ph. Geta, what's to be done now ? Ge. Do you now approach him first. I will lie here in ambush as a reserve force, if you fall back at all. Ph. All right ! (Both retire to the back of the stage.) Scene 3 [Enter Demipho, who does not see Phaedria and Geta.] Demipho Phaedria Geta De. (to himself) And so has Antipho really married with- out my consent? And to think he has no regard for my authority or — to waive authority — none for my anger, at all events ! That he has no sense of shame! What a bold deed ! Geta, you counsellor! Ge. (aside) Well, at last ! De. What will they say to me ? Or what plea will they find ? I do wonder. Ge. (aside) And yet I'll find one. Think of something else. De. Will he tell me this : " I did it against my will ; the law compelled me" ? I hear, and admit it. II. 3. 105-132] PHORMIO 11 Ge. (aside) Good ! De. But with full knowledge and in silence to surrender the cause to his foes — did the law oblige him to do that too ? Ph. (aside to Geta) That's a poser. Ge. (aside to Phaedria) I'll clear that up ; let me alone. De. I'm in doubt what to do, for beyond belief and ex- pectation has this blow befallen me. So angered am I, that I cannot school my mind to think upon it. Therefore all people, when their affairs are most prosperous, then especially ought to con over with themselves how they are to endure the blows of adversity, either a son's misconduct, a wife's death, or a daughter's sickness; (let them think) that these are the common lot, so that nothing may come as a surprise to the mind. AVhatever happens beyond expectation, all this they should reckon as gain. Ge. (aside) Phaedria, it is incredible how far I surpass my master in wisdom ! I have conned over all my troubles against my master's return. I must grind at the mill, be beaten, wear fetters, be set to labor in the country. None of these things will come as a surprise to my mind. Whatever happens beyond my expectation, all this I shall reckon as gain. But why do you delay to approach him and at the outset speak him fair? (Phaedria comes forward.) De. (to himself) I see Phaedria, my brother's son, coming toward me. Ph. Greetings to you, my uncle ! De. (coldly) Greetings to you ! But where is Antipho ? Ph. That you have come safe and sound . . . 12 TERENCE [II. 3. 133-163 De. (interrupting) I believe you; answer me this question. Ph. He is well, he is here. But is not everything satisfactory ? De. Indeed, I could wish it were. Ph. What means this ? De. Do you ask, Phaedria? A fine marriage you have worked up here in my absence ! Ph. What, are you now angry with him for that ? Ge. (aside) clever workman ! De. Should I not be angry with him ? I long to have him come before my eyes, that he may learn that through his fault I, who was formerly a gentle parent, have now become most stern. Ph. And yet, uncle, he has done nothing for which you should be angry. De. There now ! All alike ; all agree. Know one, know all. Ph. That's not so. De. A is in trouble, B is at hand to plead his cause; when it is B, A is ready. They serve each other. Ge. (aside) Without knowing it, the old man has pictured their doings capitally. De. For if this were not so, you, Phaedria, would not be on his side. Ph. If it is a fact, uncle, that Antipho has done a wrong, by which he has paid too little regard to fame or fortune, I offer no plea to prevent his suffering what he deserves. But if perchance some one, relying on his knavery, has laid a snare for our inexperience and has succeeded, is this our fault or that of the judges, who often from envy take from the rich, or from pity give to the poor ? II. 3. 164-190] PHORMIO 13 Ge. (aside) Did I not know the case, I could fancy he was telling the truth. De. Is there any judge who can know your rights, when you yourself do not answer a word — as he has done ? Ph. He acted the part of an ingenuous youth. When they came before the judges, he could not set forth what he had intended to say. So much then did his modesty daze him there in his bashfulness. Ge. (aside) I commend him. But do I hesitate to accost the old gentleman at once ? (advancing to Demijjho) My greeting, master ! I'm glad that you have ar- rived safely. De. Ah ! my fine guardian, greeting ! Truly the prop of my family, to whom, when leaving here, I in- trusted my son ! Ge. For some time I have listened to you, accusing us all undeservedly, and me the most undeservedly of them all. For what would you have had me do for you in this matter ? The laws do not allow a slave to plead, and there is no giving of evidence (on his part). De. I waive all that. I grant this, that from inexperi- ence the young man was bashful. I allow that you are a slave. Still if she is ever so closely akin, it was not necessary to marry her, but as the law enjoins, you should have given a dowry ; she should have looked for another husband. For what reason did he prefer to wed a pauper ? Ge. It was not the reason that was wanting, but the money: De. He should have borrowed it from somewhere. Ge. Somewhere ! Nothing is easier to say. 14 TERENCE [II. 3. 191-209 De. In short, if in no other way, on interest. Ge. Pshaw ! finely said ! as if any one would have trusted him, while you were alive. De. No, it will not be so. It cannot be. Should I suffer her to remain with him as his bride a single day ? No gentle measure have they earned. I want this fellow to be pointed out to me, or to be shown where he lives. Ge. Phormio, I suppose? De. That fellow — the woman's patron. Ge. He will be here presently, I assure you. De. Where is Antipho now ? Ge. Out of doors. De. Go, Phaedria, look him up and bring him here. Ph. I'm off. Indeed I'll go there at once. (Exeunt Phaedria and Geta.) De. I'll go off home to salute the house gods. From there I'll go to the forum and summon several of my friends to assist in this matter, so that I may not be unprepared, if Phormio comes. (Exit into his house.) ACT III Scene 1 [Enter Phormio and Geta from the right.'] Phormio Geta Ph. Do you mean to say that, dreading his father's ar- rival, he has taken himself off ? Ge. Just so. Ph. That Phanium is left alone ? Ge. Precisely. Ph. And the old gentleman is angry ? Ge. Uncommonly so. Ph. (to himself) The whole business, Phormio, rests upon you alone. You're the man that mixed this dish; you must eat it all up. Make ready. Ge. I implore you. Ph. (to himself, disregarding Geta) If he inquires — Ge. Our hope is in you. Ph. (to himself) But see here ! what if he retorts ? Ge. It was you that urged us. Ph. (to himself) Yes, I think I have it. Ge. Do help us. Ph. (to Geta) Bring the old gentleman out. All my measures are now settled in my mind. Ge. What do you mean to do? Ph. What would you have me do, save that Phanium shall continue with him and I clear Antipho from 15 16 TERENCE [III. 1. 23-2. 45 this charge and turn the old gentleman's anger wholly upon myself ? Ge. brave and kind man that you are ! But, Phormio, I often fear lest this courage may end in the stocks at last. Ph. Oh ! not so. I've made trial ; I've already looked over the path I must tread. How many men do you suppose I have already beaten even to death ? Well, tell me, did you ever hear of an action of damages being brought against me ? Ge. How is that ? Ph. Because the net is never spread for the hawk or the kite, that do us mischief; it is spread for thosC that do us none ; because, to be sure, in the last there is profit, while with the others it is labor lost. Some people, from whom something can be got, are in dan- ger from others. As for me, they know I have nothing. Ge. (seeing Demipho coming) The old man is coining. Take care what you are about ; the first encounter is the fiercest. If you stand that, you may afterwards play as you please. (TJiey retire to one side.) Scene 2 [Enter Demipho with his three friends, from the right.~\ Demipho (and friends) Phormio Geta De. (to his friends) What ! did you ever hear of an injury done to any one in a more outrageous manner than this to me ? Assist me, I pray. Ge. (aside to Phormio) He is angry. Ph. (aside to Geta) Now mark this; I'll stir him up III. 2. 46-73] PHORMIO 17 presently! (aloud to Geta) Ye gods immortal ! Does Demiplio say that this Phanium is not related to him ? What ! Demipho say that she is not related ? Ge. He does say so. Ph. And that he does not know who her father was ? Ge. He says so. De. (to himself, recognizing Phormio) I believe it's the very man I was discussing, (to his friends) Follow me. (steps forward) Ph. (feigning indignation) Because the poor thing was left destitute, her father is disowned, she herself is slighted. See what avarice does. Ge. {in a loud voice, affecting indignation) If you accuse my master of misconduct, you'll hear hard words. De. (aside) What impudence ! He actually comes to accuse me. Ph. (to Geta) For indeed I have no reason for being angry with the young man, if he did not know him; because, as the man was now advanced in years and poor, and supported himself by his labor, he gener- ally confined himself to the country; there he had a farm from my father to cultivate. Often, in the meantime, the old man would tell me that this kins- man of his neglected him. But what a man he was! the best I ever saw in my life. If I had not formed such an opinion of him, I should never have in- curred such deep enmity with your family on account of her, whom your master now slights so ungenerously. Ge. Do you persist in abusing my master in his absence, you villain! Ph. Why, this is what he deserves. Ge. Say you so, you scoundrel ? 18 TERENCE [III. 2. 74-100 De. (calling him) Geta ! Ge. (to Phormio, pretending not to hear) You def rauder of property, you perverter of the laws ! De. (calling more loudly) Geta ! Ph. (in an undertone to Geta) Answer him. Ge. (turning round) Who is it ? (pretending to be aston- ished) Oh! De. (to Geta) Hold your tongue. Ge. (to Demipho) He has never left off uttering abuse against you, behind your back, unworthy of you and worthy only of himself. De. (to Geta) Stop, (to Phormio) Young man, in the first place, with your good leave, I ask you this question, if you can be pleased to give me an answer. Who do you say that friend of yours was ? Explain this to me and how he said that I was related to him. Ph. You are fishing it out, just as if you did not know. De. I know ? Ph. Yes. De. I say I do not. Do you, who affirm it, rub up my memory. Ph. Come, didn't you know your own cousin ? De. (angrily) You are the death of me ! Tell me his name. Ph. His name ? (hesitating) Certainly. De. Why are you silent now ? Ph. (aside to Geta) Upon my word, I'm undone; I've forgotten the name. De. (impatiently) What do you say ? Ph. (aside) Geta, if you recollect the name mentioned a while ago, prompt me. (cdoud to Demipho). Well, I III. 2. 101-127] PHORMIO 19 won't tell. As if you didn't know, you come to pump me. De. What ! I pump you ? Ge. (prompting him) Stilpo. Ph. (indifferently) And besides what matters it to me ? It is Stilpo. De. Whom did you say ? Ph. Stilpo, I say ; you knew him. De. I neither knew him nor have I had any one of that name related to me. Ph. Really ? Are you not ashamed before these men ? But if he had left an estate of ten talents — De. The gods confound you ! Ph. — you'd be the first to trace your pedigree, by mem- ory, from grandfather and far-off great-grandfather. De. As you say. In that case, on my appearance in court, I should have shown how she was related to me ; do you do the same. Tell me ! How is she related to me ? Ge. (to Demipko) Bravo! master, well done ! (to Phormio) You there, have a care ! Ph. I've explained the matter fully where I ought, before the judges. If it was false, why didn't your son then disprove it ? De. Do you talk about my son to me ? Of whose folly there is no speaking as it deserves. Ph. (ironically) Well! do you, who are so wise, go to the magistrates, that they may give you a second de- cision in the same cause, since you reign alone, and are the only man allowed to get a second trial here in the same cause. De. Although wrong has been done me, still, however, 20 TERENCE [III. 2. 128-153 rather than engage in a lawsuit, or listen to you, just as though she were a relative, rid me of her and take five minae, the dowry which the law orders one to give. Ph. (laughing) Ha! ha! ha! a pleasant kind of man ! De. What's the matter ? Do I ask anything unfair ? Or am I not to obtain even this, which is common justice? Ph. (with affected indignation) And pray, is it so, that when a maid has been wedded, the law orders one to give her money and dismiss her ? Or is it to prevent a citizen's bringing a scandal upon herself through poverty, that she has been ordered to be given to her nearest relative, to pass her life with him alone — a thing which you mean to hinder ? De. Ay, to her nearest relative. But how are we such ? Or why are we concerned ? Ph. Hoho ! a thing that's done, they say, you must not do again. De. Not do ? Nay, I shan't desist till I have gone through with it. Ph. You are trifling. De. Just let me be. Ph. In fine, Demipho, we have nothing to do with you. "lis your son, and not you, that's cast, for your time for marrying was over long ago. De. Consider that it is he who says all that I now say, or I'll turn both him and this wife of his out of doors. Ge. (aside) He is angry. Ph. Better for you to do that to yourself. De. (angrily) Are you thus determined, you wretch, to do everything to my injury ? III. 2. 154-3. 177] PHORMIO 21 Ph. (aside to Geta) He is afraid of us, for all his care to hide it. Ge. (aside to Phormio) Your beginning is a success. Ph. (aloud to Demipho) Why not put up with what must be borne ? You'll be acting like yourself, so that we may be on friendly terms. De. Do I court your friendship, or desire to see or hear you? Ph. If you can agree with her, yon will have some one to be the joy of your old age. Consider your time of life. De. Let her be your joy ; take her to yourself. Ph. Do moderate your passion. De. Mark this ; we have had words enough. If you don't make haste to take away the woman, I will turn her out. I have said it, Phormio. Ph. If you deal with her in any manner other than befits a gentlewoman, I'll bring a heavy action against you. I have said it, Demipho. (to Geta) If you want me for anything, send for me, mark you ! at my home. Ge. I understand. (Exit Phormio to the right.) Scene 3 Demipho Geta Hegio Cratinus Crito De. What care and anxiety does my son bring upon me, by entangling himself and me in this marriage ! And he will not appear before my eyes, that at least I may know what he has to say or what he thinks about this matter, (to Geta) Go and see whether he has yet returned home or not. Ge. I will. (Exit into Demiphd's house.) 22 TERENCE [III. 3. 178-4. 202 De. (to his friends) You see how the case stands. What am I to do ? Tell me, Hegio. He. I ? I think Cratinus should give his opinion, if you please. De. Tell me, Cratinus. Cra. Do you wish me to speak ? De. You. Cra. I should like you to do what is for your advantage. This is my opinion : it is lawful and fair that what this son of yours has done in your absence should be made void ; and you will obtain redress. That's my view. De. Speak now, Hegio. He. I believe that Cratinus has given his real view ; but the truth is, " as many men, so many minds " ; every one his own way. My view is that what has been done by law cannot be annulled ; and it is wrong to attempt it. De. Speak, Crito. Cri. I hold that we must deliberate further ; it is a matter of consequence. He. Do you want anything more of us ? De. (ironically polite) You have done very well. (Exeunt advisers.) (to himself, despairingly) I am much more at a loss than before. (Exit to the left.) Scene 4 [Enter Dorio, followed by PhaedriaJ] Phaedeia Dorio Antipho Geta Ph. (imploringly) Dorio, pray hear me. Do. I will not. (starts to leave the stage) III. 4. 203-224] PHORMIO 23 Ph. But a moment, (holding him back) Do. Let me alone, (shaking him off) Ph. Hear what I have to say. Do. But really I am tired of hearing the same thing a thousand times. Ph. But I will now tell you something that you'll hear with pleasure. Do. (turning surlily) Speak; I'm listening. Ph. Can I not prevail on you to wait the next three days? (Dorio starts off again.) Where are you going now ? Do. I was wondering if you had anything new to offer me. [Enter from the right Antipho and Geta, unseen by Dorio and Phaedria."] An. (aside to Geta) Ah! I'm afraid that this fellow (pointing to Dorio) is working mischief for his own pate, as the saying runs. Ge. (aside to Antipho) That's what I'm afraid of. Ph. Don't you yet believe me ? Do. You are trifling. Ph. But if I pledge my word ? Do. Nonsense ! Ph. You will say that this kindness was well repaid you. Do. Mere words ! Ph. Believe me, you will be glad you did it ; upon my word, it is the truth. Do. A dream ! Ph. Do but try ; the time is not long. Do. You sing the same old song. Ph. (imploringly) You shall be my kinsman, my father, my friend, my — 24 TERENCE [III. 4. 225-256 Do. (interrupting) Do prattle on, you stun me. An. (coming forward and speaking to Dorio) It is not a long time that he asks. Do let him prevail on yon, Dorio. (pointing to Phaedria) This gentleman, more- over, will pay you twofold, if you oblige him in any way. Do. Mere words ! An. Will you allow Pamphila to be taken from this city ? Then, besides, can you allow their love to be severed? Do. Neither I nor yon do that. Ph. (furiously, to Dorio) May all the gods give you what you deserve ! Do. (to Phaedria) I have borne with you for several months against my inclination, promising but bring- ing nothing, and whimpering; now, quite the con- trary, I have found one to pay without blubbering ; give place to your betters. An. (to Phaedria) Why, certainly, if I remember right, there was once a day fixed upon, for you to pay him. Ph. There was. Do. Do I deny it ? An. Is that day past, then ? Do. No ; but this has come before it. An. Are you not ashamed of your bad faith ? Do. Not at all, when it's for my interest. Ph. Dorio, ought you, pray, to act thus ? Do. 'Tis my way; if you like me, use me. An. Do you try to deceive him in this way ? Do. Nay, Antipho, it is he that deceives me, for he knew me to be the person I was, but I supposed that he was quite different. 'Tis he that has deceived me ; I am just the same to him as I was. But however III. 4. 257-5. 280] PHORMIO 25 these things are, yet I will do this. The captain has said that to-morrow morning he will pay me the money; if you bring it me before that, Phaedria, I'll follow my rule, that he is preferred who is first to pay. Farewell! (Exit Dorio to the right.) Scene 5 Phaedria Antipho Geta Ph. (in despair) What am I to do ? Wretch that I am, where shall I now, so speedily, raise the money for this fellow, I, who have less than nothing ? An. Geta, 'shall we suffer him to continue thus wretched, when so lately he assisted me in the friendly manner you spoke of? Why not, as there's need of it, try to do him a kindness in return ? Ge. I know indeed that it is but just. An. Come then, you are the only man able to help him. Ge. What can I do ? An. Procure the money. Ge. I should like to, but tell me where. An. My father is now here. Ge. I know ; but what then ? An. Ah ! a word to the wise is enough. Ge. Is that it ? An. Yes. Ge. Upon my word, you really give fine advice ! But is it nothing to you, that the old gentleman is now pro- voked against us all, without our irritating him still more, so that no room is left for entreaty ? Ph. (wringing his hands) Is another man to take her from before my eyes to some unknown spot ? (sighi)ig) 26 TERENCE [III. 5. 281-311 All ! speak to me now, Antipho, look at me, while you may and while I am still with you. An. Why so ? Or what do you mean to do ? Tell me. Ph. To whatever part of the world she is carried, I'm determined to follow or perish. Ge. May the gods prosper your plan ! But go slowly. An. Do see if you can give him any assistance. Ge. Any assistance ? How ? An. Do seek a plan, I pray you, Geta, that he may not do too much or too little, for which we may after- wards be sorry. Ge. Very well, (after reflection) He is safe, as far as I can see ; but indeed I fear trouble. An. Don't be afraid; together with you, we'll endure good or bad. Ge. How much money do you want ? Tell me. Ph. Only thirty minae. Ge. Thirty ? Ah ! she is very dear, Phaedria. Ph. (indignantly) Indeed, she is cheap. Ge. Well, well, I'll get them. Ph. (embracing Geta) You splendid fellow ! Ge. (shaking him off) Take yourself off. Ph. I want them at once. Ge. You will have them at once. But I must have Phormio for my assistant in this business. An. He's ready. Lay on boldly any load you like ; he'll bear it. He's a right good friend to a friend. Ge. Let's go to him at once, then. An. Is there any occasion for my assistance ? Ge. None ; but go home and comfort that poor thing, who, I am sure, is now indoors almost dead with fear. Do you linger ? III. 5. 312-316] PHORMIO 27 An. There's nothing I could do with so much pleasure. {Exit into Demipho's house.) Ph. How will you manage this ? Ge. I'll tell you on the road ; now take yourself off. (Exeunt Phaedria and Geta to the right.) ACT IV Scene 1 \~Enter Geta from the right, Demipho and Chremes from the left. The latter has just arrived from Lemnos. Geta soliloquizes, not observing the others.'] Geta Demipho Chremes Ge. (to himself) I never saw a more cunning fellow than Phormio. I came to the fellow to tell him that money was needed, and by what means it might be procured. Hardly had I said one half, when he understood me ; he was delighted, complimented me, and asked where the old man was. He thanked Heaven that an opportunity was afforded him, for showing himself no less a friend to Phaedria than to Antipho. I bade the fellow wait for me at the forum, whither I would bring the old gentleman. (catches sight of Demipho) But here's the very man. Who is the further one ? (in dismay) Oh ! Phaedria's father has come, (more composed) But, goose that I am, what was I afraid of? Is it be- cause two are given me instead of one to make dupes of? I deem it better to enjoy a twofold hope. I'll try him I first designed to get it from ; if he gives it me, well and good. If I make noth- ing of him, then I'll assail this newcomer. (Crosses towards the old men.) 28 IV. 2. 18-40] PHORMIO 29 Scene 2 [Enter Antipho from Demipho , s house. He listens, unper- ceived.] Astipho Geta Chremes Demipho An. (to himself) Every moment I expect Geta to come back, (catching sight of Chremes) But I see my uncle standing near by, with my father. Ah me ! how much I fear the effect his return may have upon my father ! Ge. (to himself) I'll go up to them, (accosting Chremes) Welcome, our Chremes ! Ch. How do you do, Geta ? Ge. I'm glad to see you safe returned. Ch. I believe it. Ge. How goes it ? Many changes here on one's arrival, as usually happens ? Ch. Many. Ge. 'Tis so. Have you heard what has happened to Antipho ? Ch. Everything. Ge. (to Demipho) Did you tell him ? 'Tis a shameful thing, Chremes, to be thus imposed on. Ch. That's what I was discussing with him just now. Ge. But on my word, on carefully revolving it in my own mind, I fancy I have also found a remedy for this evil. Ch. What is it, Geta ? De. What is the remedy ? Ge. (confidentially) When I left you, by chance Phormio met me. Ch. What Phormio ? 30 TERENCE [IV. 2. 41-67 Ge. The man to whom the girl — Ch. I understand. Ge. It seemed to me that I should sound his motives. I took him aside. Said I : " Why, don't you see, Phormio, how we can settle these differences be- tween us with a good grace rather than a bad one ? My master is generous and hates lawsuits ; for really all the rest of his friends were just now advising him with one voice to turn her out of doors at once." An. (aside) What is he about ? Or where will he stop ? Ge. " Will you say that the law will punish him if he turns her out ? That has already been looked into. Ah ! you'll have a hot enough time if you engage with him. He is so eloquent. But suppose he is beaten ; still it is not his life, but his money that's at stake." After I found that the fellow was influ- enced by these words, I said : " We are now by our- selves here; come, tell me, what should you like given you in cash, provided that my master is re- leased from this suit, the girl takes herself off, aad you trouble us no further ? " An. (aside) Can the gods be unkind to him? Ge. (as before) "For I'm quite sure, if you mention anything fair and reasonable, so fair-minded a man is he, you'll not have to bandy three words to-day between you." De. Who ordered you to say so? Ch. Nay, we could not have more happily attained our object. An. (aside) I'm undone ! De. Go on with your story. IV. 2. 68-95] PHORMIO 31 Ge. At first the fellow raved. Ch. Tell me what he asks. Ge. What? Far too much. Ch. How much ? Tell me. Ge. Suppose one were to give a great talent. De. {very angrily) Nay, on my word, a great thrashing. Has he no shame? Ge. Just what I said to him : " Pray, suppose he were portioning an only daughter of his own. It has been of little benefit that he hasn't had one of his own, when another is thus found, to demand a dowry." To be brief and to pass over his imperti- nences, this at last was his final answer: "I," said he, " from the very first, have been desirous to marry the daughter of my friend, as it was right I should ; for I thought of the trouble for her, that a poor girl be given in slavery to a rich man. But to tell you now frankly, I needed a wife to bring me a trifle, with which to pay off my debts ; and even now, if Demipho is willing to give as much as I am getting from her, who is betrothed to me, there is no one whom I should prefer to have as wife." An. (aside) I am uncertain whether to say he is acting through folly or ill-will, knowingly or thoughtlessly. De. What if he is head and ears in debt? Ge. " My laud," he said, " has been mortgaged for ten minae." De. Well, well, let him take her at once. I will give it. Ge. " I've a little house too, mortgaged for ten more." De. {angrily) Whew! that's too much. Ch. Don't cry out; you may claim those ten of me. Ge. " For the wife I must buy a maid; then a little more 32 TERENCE [IV. 2. 96-3. 116 furniture is needed ; we need money to spend on the wedding. For these items," said he, " put down, pray, ten minae." De. Then let him bring against me at once a thousand actions. Nothing do I give. Is this filthy fellow to make sport of me as well? Ch. Pray be quiet ; I'll give it. Do you only have your son marry the girl we want him to have. An. (aside, in despair) Ah me! you have ruined me, Geta, by your deception. Ch. It's on my account she is cast off; it's right that I stand this loss. Ge. " As soon as possible," said he, " let me know, if they mean to give her, that I may send the other off, so as not to be in doubt ; for those others have agreed to give me the dowry at once." Ch. Let him get the money at once ; let him inform those people that the engagement is broken off ; let him marry this woman. De. (angrily) Ay, and a curse on this business for him ! Ch. Very luckily I've now brought some money with me, the income which my wife's farms yield at Lemnos. I'll take it from that; I'll tell my wife that you needed it. (Exeunt Demipho and Chremes.) Scene 3 [Geta makes an explanation to Antipho.~\ Antipho Geta An. (coming forivard, in anger) Geta ! Ge. Well! An. What have you done? IV. 3. 117-142] PHORMIO 33 Ge. Fooled the old men out of their money. An. Is that all ? Ge. {supposing his question refers to the money) Indeed, I don't know ; that was all my orders. An. There, you scoundrel ! (striking him) Do you answer what I don't ask? Ge. Well, what do you mean? An. What do I mean? Thanks to you, my case has most clearly reached the hanging-point. May all the gods and goddesses, powers above and below, bring you to perdition with condign punishments ! (bitterly) See ! if you want anything done, intrust it to this fellow, who would drive you from smooth water on to a rock. What could have been less expedient than to touch this sore or to name my wife ? Hopes have been aroused in my father that she may possibly be cast over. Now tell me, pray : if Phormio receives the portion, he must marry her. What's to come of it? Ge. Why, he won't marry her. An. (ironically) I know that. But when they demand the money back, for our sake, of course, he'll prefer going to jail. Ge. There's no story, Antipho, but can be made worse by being badly told. You leave out what is good ; you mention what is bad. Now hear the other side. If he receives the money, he must at once marry her, as you say. I grant you. Of course, some little time, at least, will bo allowed for preparing the nup- tials, for inviting guests, and for offering sacrifice. In the meantime, friends will give what they have promised ; from that he will repay the sum. 34 TERENCE [IV. 3. 143-4. 165 An. Why so ? Or what will he say ? Ge. Do you ask? "How many circumstances since then have befallen me as prodigies? A strange, black dog entered the house ; a snake fell down from the tiles through the skylight; a hen crowed; the soothsayer forbade it ; the diviner declared against it » — that is the best excuse. This will happen. An. I only hope it may. Ge. (with confidence) It will ; trust me. {Exeunt to the right.) Scene 4 [Enter, in great agitation, Sophrona from Demipho's house.'] SOPHRONA CHREMES So. (to herself) What am I to do? What friend can I find in my misery? To whom disclose these plans? Or where seek aid? For I fear my mistress may sustain some undeserved injury as a result of my advice, in such dudgeon does the young man's father, I hear, take these goings on. [Enter Chremes, from his house, unobserved.'] Ch. (aside) Who in the world is this old woman, who has come forth from my brother's house in mortal terror? So. It was distress that drove me to this course (though I knew this was an uncertain match) ; namely, to see to it, that in the meantime her subsistence might be secure. Ch. (aside) Why surely, unless my mind deceives me, or my eyes are poor, I see my daughter's nurse. So. (to herself) And we cannot find — IV. 4. 166-194] PHORMIO 35 Ch. (aside) What must I do ? So. (to herself) — her father. Ch. (aside) Shall I go up to her or shall I wait to learn more fully what she's saying ? So. (to herself) But if now I could find him, there's nothing I should fear. Ch. (aside) It's the very woman. I'll accost her. (ap- proaches her) So. (startled) Who is speaking here? Ch. (calling to her) Sophrona ! So. (aside) Mentioning my name, too ? Ch. Look back at me. So. (amazed) Ye gods, I beseech you, isn't this Stilpo ? Ch. No. So. Do you deny it ? Ch. (speaking in a loio and excited tone) Please step a little this way from the door, Sophrona. (They withdraw to one side.) Don't call me by that name again. So. What ? Are you not, pray, the man you always said you were ? Ch. {looking alarmed toivard his house) Hush! So. Why do you fear those doors ? Ch. [in a low, mysterious tone) I have a terror of a wife shut up here. But formerly I falsely called myself by that name, lest you should chance to blab it care- lessly out of doors, and my wife, somehow, should then learn of it. So. That's the reason, to be sure, why we poor women could never find you here. Ch. Well, tell me, what business have you with that family from whose house you have come ? Where are the ladies ? 36 TERENCE [IV. 4. 195-223 So. Ah, wretched me ! Ch. Hah ! What now ? Are they alive ? So. Your daughter is. As for the mother, poor woman, this grief broke her heart. Ch. Too bad! So. And I, a poor, lone, unknown woman that I was, contrived, as well as I could, to match the girl to the young man who is master of this house. Ch. To Antipho ? So. Yes, the very same. Ch. {bewildered) What ? Has he two wives ? So. Dear no ! Mercy on us ! He has only this one. Ch. What about that other, who is called a relative ? So. She is the very same. Ch. How say you ? So. It was done by arrangement, that so her lover might secure her without a dowry. Ch. (to himself, joyfully) Gracious heavens ! How often through some random chance do things come about which one does not dare to hope for ? Coining here, I have found my daughter wedded just as I wished, and to the very person I wished. What we both were using our most earnest endeavors to bring about, he alone, aside from our efforts, but with the utmost on his own part, has effected. So. Now consider what's to be done. The young man's father has come, and they say he takes this in great dudgeon. Ch. There's no danger. But, by gods and men, see that no one finds out that she's my daughter. So. No one shall learn it from me. Ch. Follow me; indoors you'll hear the rest. (Exeunt into Demiphd's house.) ACT V Scene 1 [Enter Demipho and Nausistrata from Chremes' house.~\ Demipho Nausistrata De. Come now, Nausistrata, with your usual skill, see that this woman becomes well disposed to us, that of her own accord she may do what must be done. Na. I will. De. Assist me now with your efforts, just as a while ago you aided me with your substance. Na. With all my heart; and yet, believe me, through my husband's fault, I can do less than I ought. De. Why so ? Na. Because, to be sure, he manages so carelessly my father's hard-earned property ; for from these farms he used to receive regularly two silver talents. How superior one man is to another ! De. Two talents, pray ? Na. Ay, two talents, and that when prices were much lower. De. (affecting surprise) Whew! Na. How does that strike you? De. Striking indeed! Na. I wish I had been born a man. I'd show — De. (interrupting) I'm sure of it. Na. — in what wa) r — De. Pray, spare yourself, that you may be able to 37 38 TERENCE [V. 1. 21-2. 45 encounter her, lest she, a young woman, may wear you out. Na. I'll do as you bid me ; (sees Chremes) but I see my husband coming from your house. Scene 2 \_Enter Chremes from Demipho's house.~\ Nausistkata Chremes Demipho Ch. (not observing his wife's presence) Ha ! Demipho, has the money been paid him yet ? De. I saw to it at once. Ch. I wish it hadn't, (to himself, in alarm) Oh ! I see my wife ; I had almost said too much. De. Why so, Chremes ? Ch. (embarrassed) It's all right now. De. What say you ? Have you told the girl why we are bringing her ? (pointing to Nausistrata) Ch. I've settled it. De. What does she say, pray? Ch. She cannot be got to leave. De. Why not ? Ch. Because they love each other. De. What's that to us ? Ch. A great deal. Besides, I have found out that she is akin to us. De. What ? You are mad ! Ch. So it will prove. This is no rash statement of mine ; I've recalled the matter to my mind. De. Are you in your senses ? Na. Bless me ! Do take care, pray, not to wrong a kins- woman. V. 2. 46-7G] PHORMIO 39 De. She is not a kinswoman. Ch. Don't deny it. Her father went by another name. That's why you made a mistake. De. Did she not know her father ? Ch. She did. De. Why did she give him another name ? Ch. (angrily) Will you never yield to me or understand ? De. If you talk nonsense ? Ch. (in despair) You ruin all. Na. I wonder what it means. De. On my word I know not. Ch. Would you like to know ? Why, so help me Heaven, nobody is more nearly akin to her than are you and I. De. Heaven help us ! Let us go to her ; I want all of us alike to know the truth or falsity of this matter, (going) Ch. Ah ! (stopping him) De. What's the matter ? Ch. To think that you have so little confidence in me ! De. Do you wish me to believe you ? Do you wish me to rest satisfied with my inquiries about this ? Well, be it so. But what's to be clone with our friend's daughter ? Ch. She will do well enough. De. We send her off, then? Ch. Why not ? De. Is the other to stay ? Ch. Yes. De. You may go then, Xausistrata. Na. Indeed, I think this is better for all parties, that she should stay, than as you had planned; for when I saw her, I thought her a thorough gentlewoman. (Exit into Chremes' Imuse.) 40 TERENCE [V. 2. 77-3. 98 De. What does this mean ? Ch. (looking round anxiously) Has she now shut the door ? De. Yes. Ch. Jupiter, the gods are kind to us ! I've found it is my daughter wedded to your son. De. Ha ! How could that be ? Ch. This place is not well suited for me to tell it you. De. Well, pass within. Ch. Mark you ! I don't want even our sons to learn of this. (Exeunt into Demipho's house.) Scene 3 [Enter Antipho and Phormio from the right; Geta from Demiphoi's house.'] Geta Axtipho Phormio Ge. (soliloquizes, not observing the others) Fortune ! happy Luck ! how suddenly by your grace have ye laden this day with great blessings for my master Antipho ! — An. (aside to Phormio) What in the world does he mean ? Ge. (as before) — and relieved us, his friends, of our burden of fear ! But am I now wasting my time, in not throwing my cloak over my shoulder, and making haste to find the man, that he may know what has happened ? (throws his cloak over his shoidder) An. (aside to Phormio) Do you understand what he's talking about ? Ph. (aside to Antipho) Do you ? An. Not at all. ' V. 3. 99-127] PHORMIO 41 Ph. And I as much. Ge. (to himself, starting to run) I'll go from here to Dorio's ; they are now there. An. Halloo, Geta ! Ge. (not turning round) There you are ! Is it strange or novel to be called back, when you've started to run ? An. Geta ! Ge. (aside) He persists, by Jove ! (aloud) You will never get the better of me by your annoyance. An. Won't you stop ? Ge. Go to the lash ! An. That's just what will soon befall yourself, you rascal, if you don't stop. Ge. This must be somebody pretty intimate; he threat- ens a whipping, (burning round) But is it the man I want or not ? 'Tis the very man. To him at once. (comes back). An. What's the matter ? Ge. happiest of all men living ! For without question you are loved of the gods beyond all others, Antipho. An. So I could wish; but I should like you to tell me why I am to suppose this is so. Ge. Is it enough, if I steep you in joy ? An. (impatiently) You torture me. Ph. (to Geta) Nay, have done with your promises, and tell us what you bring. Ge. Oh, were you here, too, Phormio ? Ph. Yes; but do you still delay ? Ge. Well, listen, (to Phormio) After paying you the money just now at the forum, we went directly home. (to Antipho) In the meantime my master sent me to your wife. 42 TERENCE [V. 3. 128-155 An. What for ? Ge. I'll omit telling you, for it is nothing to the present purpose, Antipho. Just as I was going to the women's apartments, her boy Mida runs up to me, catches hold of me behind by the cloak, and pulls me back. I turn about and ask why he stops me. He tells me he has orders to let no one go in to his mistress. " Sophrona," says he, " just now brought in Chremes, your master's brother," and he says that he is now in the room with them. When I heard this, I stole softly to the door on tiptoe, came up to it, stood, held my breath, laid my ear close, and so began to listen, in this fashion catching every word. Ph. Excellent, Geta! Ge. Here I heard a delightful tale, and so, on my oath, I almost cried out for joy. An. What was it? Ge. What do you think ? An. I don't know. Ge. And yet a most surprising one. Your uncle is found to be the father of your wife, Phanium. An. (amazed) What's that you say ? Ge. He formerly lived secretly in Lemnos with her mother. Ph. (incredulously) A dream ! how could she be ignorant of her own father ? Ge. Be sure, Phormio, that there is some reason. But do you suppose that, outside of the door, I was able to understand everything that passed between them within ? An. Indeed, I, too, have heard that story. Ge. Nay, I will give you still further reason for believ- V. 3. 156-4. 176] PHORMIO 43 ing it. Your uncle in the meantime came out from there. Not long after he returned again indoors with your father; each said that he gave you permis- sion to keep your wife. In short, I am sent to find you, and bring you to them. An. (beside himself with joy) Why, then, carry me off ; why do you delay ? Ge. I'll do so. Axi. 0, my dear Phormio, farewell ! Ph. Farewell, Antipho ! So may the gods bless me, 'tis a lucky thing. How glad I am ! (Exeunt Antipho and Geta into Demipho' s house.) Scene 4 [Enter Demipho and Chremes from the former's house. Phormio is unobserved.] Demipho Chremes Phormio De. I give and return hearty thanks to the gods, and with reason, brother, seeing that these matters have turned out for us so fortunately. Ch. Is she not, as I have said, ladylike ? De. Exceedingly so. As soon as possible, we must now meet Phormio, before he squanders our thirty minae, so that we may get them from him. (Phormio comes forward, pretending not to see the others.) Ph. (to himself) I'll go see Demipho, if he is at home, that what we — De. (interrupting him) Why, Phormio, we were coming to you. Ph. Upon this same affair, perhaps? De. Yes, indeed. 44 TERENCE [V. 4. 177-205 Ph. I thought so. Why were you coming to my house ? De. A ridiculous — Ph. (interrupting him) What ! did you fear that I shouldn't do what I had once undertaken ? Mark you ! How- ever great is my poverty, still, of this one thing I have always taken care, to keep my word. And this, Demipho, is just what I'm come to tell you, that I am ready; when you please, give me my wife. For I postponed everything else, as was fit I should, when I understood that you were so desirous to have it so. De. (confused) But he (pointing to Chremes) has dissuaded me from giving her to you. "For what," says he, " will be the talk among people, if you do this ? Formerly, when she might have been disposed of with honor, then she wasn't given ; now, it's a shame for her to be turned out of doors ; " — practically all the very reasons which you yourself so lately had urged against me to my face. Ph. (indignantly) You treat me in a very insulting manner. De. How ? Ph. Do you ask me ? Because I shall not be able to marry the other girl either ; for with what face shall I return to her Avhom I have slighted ? Ch. (apart to Demipho, prompting Mm)' Say: "Then again I see that Antipho is unwilling to part with her." De. {repeating) Then again I see that my son is certainly unwilling to part with her. But pray step over to the forum, and order this money, Phormio, to be paid back to me again. Ph. What, when I in turn paid it to those to whom I was indebted ? V. 4. 20G-233] PHORMIO 45 De. What's to be done then ? Ph. If you will let me have her as wife, whom you formally promised, I will take her, but if you prefer that she should stay with you, Demipho, let the portion stay with me. For it is not fair that I should be deceived on your account, when out of regard for your honor I broke off with the other, who was to bring me a portion just as large. De. (furiously) Go to perdition with your bombast, you vagabond. Do you still imagine that I am such a stranger to you or your ways ? Ph. (in pretended anger) You are provoking. De. Would you have married her, if she had been given to you ? Ph. Make trial. De. Why don't you give me my money ? Ph. Nay, but do you give me my wife. De. Come before a judge. Ph. Indeed, if you persist in being troublesome — De. What will you do ? Ph. I ? Perhaps you think that I have only portionless women under my protection ; it is my custom to look after those with portions as well. Ch. What is that to us ? Ph. (carelessly) Nothing. I knew a lady here whose husband had — Ch. Hah! De. (to Chremes) What is the matter ? Ph. — another wife at Lemnos. Ch. (aside, in despair) I'm ruined. Ph. By whom he had a daughter; and her he is secretly bringing up. 46 TERENCE [V. 4. 234-202 Ch. (aside) I'm buried. Ph. That's the whole story that I will presently tell her. (starts to go towards Chremes' house) Ch. For Heaven's sake, don't. Ph. (affecting surprise) Oh, were you the man ? De. "What sport he makes of us ! Ch. (to Phormid) We'll let you off. Ph. Nonsense ! Ch. What would you have? "We forgive you the money you have of ours. Ph. I hear. "Why then, you wretch, do you trifle with me so absurdly ? "I won't, I will ; I will, I won't," again : " take it, give it up ; what has been said is unsaid ; what just now was a bargain is no bargain now." Ch. (aside to Demipho) How or where has he heard of this? De. (aside to Chremes) I know not, only I do know well that I've told nobody. Ch. (aside to Demipho) Heaven help me, it's like a miracle. Ph. (to himself) I have made them uneasy. De. (aside to Chremes) Ha ! Is he to carry off from us such a sum of money as this, making sport of us in this barefaced way? On my word, I'd sooner die outright. Manage to show yourself of ready and resolute wit ; you see that this mistake of yours has got abroad, nor will it now be possible to conceal it from your wife. As it is, Chremes, the better way to appease her is to tell her ourselves what she is likely to hear from others ; then, in our own fashion, we shall be able to take vengeance on this rascal. Ph. (aside, in alarm) Ah ! if I don't look out for myself, V. 4. 2615-288] PHORMIO 47 I'm in a fix. These men are making toward me with gladiatorial intent. Ch. (aside to Demipho) But I'm afraid she cannot be appeased. De. (aside to Cliremes) Be of good courage ; I'll make it up between you, relying on this fact, Chremes, that the woman by whom this daughter was born to you has passed from this world. Ph. (to the old men) Is this the way you deal with me ? Very cleverly you make the attack. On my word it is not to his advantage (pointing to Chremes) that you have provoked me, Demipho. By this recital I will make her so incensed against you (to Chremes) that you won't quench her wrath if you shed floods of tears. De. May all the gods and goddesses send him a plague ! That any man should be possessed of so much im- pudence ! To think that such a rascal is not trans- ported by the state to some desert. Ch. (aside to Demipho) I am reduced to such a pass that I simply know not what to do with him. De. (aside to Chremes) I know; let us go to court. Ph. (overhear in// him) To court? This way, if you please, (starts towards Chremes 1 house) Ch. (to Demipho) "Follow him ; hold him back, while I call out the servants. De. Indeed I cannot by myself ; run to my aid. Ph. (to Demipho) There is one action against you. De. (to Phormio) Then proceed by law. Ph. (to Chremes) There is a second against you, Chremes. Ch. (to Demipho) Away with him. Ph. Is this your plan? I must certainly use my voice. (calling aloud) iSTausistrata, come out. 48 TERENCE [V. 4. 28&-5. 312 Ch. (to Demipho) Stop his mouth; see how strong the rascal is. Ph. (calling louder) Nausistrata, I say. De. Won't you hold your tongue ? Ph. Hold my tongue ? De. (to Chremes) If he won't follow, punch him in the stomach. Ph. Or knock out an eye. Some day I'll punish you soundly. Scene 5 [Enter Nausistrata from Chremes' house.] Nausistrata Chremes Demipho Phormio Na. Who calls me? (to Chremes) Ha! Pray, what means this disturbance, my husband ? Ph. (to Chremes) Oh, why are you now mute ? Na. (to Chremes, pointing to Phormio) Who is this man ? Won't you answer me ? Ph. (to Nausistrata) Would he answer you, who on my word does not know where he is ? Ch. (to Nausistrata) Beware of believing him in any- thing. Ph. (to Nausistrata) Go, touch him ; if he is not cold all over, you may kill me. Ch. (carelessly) It's nothing. Na. Why then ? What is he talking about ? Ph. You'll soon learu. Listen. Ch. Do you mean to believe him ? Na. Believe him in what, pray, when he has told me nothing ? Ph. The poor creature is crazed with fear. V. 5. 313-340] PHORMIO 49 Na. (to Chremes) On my word, it cannot be without rea- son that you are in such a fright. Ch. I in a fright ? Ph. (to Chremes) Quite right. Since you are not in a fright, and what I'm going to tell is nothing at all, tell it yourself. De. Villain ! Is he to tell the tale for you ? Ph. (to Demipho) Come now ! you have managed nicely for your brother. Na. My husband, won't you tell me ? Ch. (stammering) But — Na. Why ' but ' ? Ch. There's no need to tell it. Ph. (to Chremes) Not for you indeed; but there's need for her to know it. (to Nausistrata) In Lemnos — Na. (alarmed) Ha! what's that you say ? Ch. (to Phormio) Won't you be silent ? Ph. — unknown to you — Ch. (aside) Ah me ! Ph. — he married another. Na. (horrified) My dear sir, Heaven forbid ! Ph. That is the fact. Na. Unhappy one, I am undone ! Ph. And has already had one daughter by her, while you knew nothing of it. Ch. (aside to Demipho) What are we to do ? Na. Ye gods immortal ! What a disgraceful and wicked deed! Ph. This is what he has done. Na. Was anything ever done more shameful ? Demi- pho, I appeal to you, for 1 have no patience to speak with the man himself. Were these his fre- 50 TERENCE [V. 3. 341-367 quent journeys and long stays at Lemnos ? Was this the cheapness that lowered our rents ? De. I don't deny, Nausistrata, that in this matter he has deserved censure, but why should it not be par- doned? Ph. (aside in glee) He preaches to the dead. De. For it was neither through any aversion nor con- tempt of you that he did it. She is dead; she is departed, — the only difficulty that remained in this matter. Therefore I beg of you to bear this trouble with the same equanimity as you show on other occasions. Na. What should I bear with equanimity? Miserable as I am, I wish now to make an end of trouble in this matter. But what reason have I to hope ? Am I to suppose that with years he will offend less? He was then old enough, if old age makes men well- behaved. Are my age and beauty to attract him more now, Demipho ? What can you offer, to make me think, or hope, that it will not happen any more ? Ph. (aloud, in mocking tones) If any are disposed to come to the funeral of Chremes, lo ! now's the time, "lis thus I will pay back. Come now, let him pro- voke Phormio, who dares; I'll see that he is pun- ished even as this man. (aside) Why, let him re- turn now to favor ; I have had revenge enough. She has something to din into his ears, as long as she lives. Na. (ironically) But I deserved this, I suppose. Why should I now, Demipho, tell him in all particulars how faithful I have been to him ? De. I know it all, as well as you. V. 5. 368-397] PHORMIO 51 Na. Do you think that I deserved this usage ? De. Far from it; but now, since it cannot be undone by reproaches, forgive him. He implores you, he makes confession, lie offers an apology. What would you have more ? Ph. (aside) Certainly, before she grants pardon, I must secure myself and Phaedria. (aloud) Hark you, Nausistrata ! Before you answer him rashly, listen to me. Na. What is the matter ? Ph. I drew from him by trickery thirty minae. These I gave to your son ; he has paid them for his wife. Ch. (angrily) Ha ! what's that you say ? Na. (sarcastically to Chremes) Does it seem to you so shocking that your son, a young man, should have one wife, while you have two ? Have you no shame ? With what face will you reprove him ? Answer me. De. He will do as you would wish. Na. Nay, that you may now know my mind, I neither forgive, nor promise anything, nor give any answer, till I see my son. To his decision I leave every- thing. I will do whatever he bids me. Ph. You're a wise woman, Nausistrata. Na. (to Demipho) Are you content ? De. Yes. Ch. (to himself) Nay indeed, I come off well and satis- factorily, and beyond my expectation. Na. (to Phormio) Will you tell me your name ? Ph. Phormio; a friend, I assure you, to your family, and in particular, to your son Phaedria. Na. Well, Phormio, you may depend on it that hence- forward I'll do and say for you, so far as I can, whatever you wish. 52 TERENCE [V. 5. 398-408 Ph. You're very kind. Na. Indeed you deserve it. Ph. Will you first do now, Nausistrata, a thing that will please me, and make your husband's eyes smart ? Na. I should like to. Ph. Invite me to dinner. Na. Indeed, on my word, I do invite you. Ph. Let us go indoors. Na. Agreed. But where is Phaedria, our judge ? Ph. I'll have him here presently. {Exit to right. Ex- eunt the rest into Chremes' house.) {To the audience) Farewell and grant applause ! DATE DUE *L LIBRARY FACILITY 5 657 5 GAYLORD FRINTED IN USA.