Act II, Scene XVIII

Enter SCELEDRUS from the Captain's house.

SCEL. Periplecomenus, by Gods and men, and by my own folly, and by your knees! I do beseech you

PERIP. What now?

SCEL. Pardon my ignorance and my folly; now, at length, I know that I am half-witted, blind, and thoughtless; for, behold! Philocomasium is at home.

PERIP. How, then, hang-dog. Have you seen them both?

SCEL. I have seen them.

PERIP. I wish you to bring your master to me.

SCEL. Indeed, I confess that I deserve a very great punishment; and I own that I have done a wrong to your lady guest. But I thought that she was the lady of my master, to whom the Captain, my master, gave me as a keeper; for it is not possible for water ever to be drawn more like to water from the same well, than is she to this lady guest of yours. And I will confess, as well, that I did look through the skylight into your house.

PERIP. Why shouldn't you confess what I saw myself?

SCEL. And there saw in your house this lady guest of yours, kissing.

PERIP. You saw her?

SCEL. I saw her. Why should I deny what I did see? But I fancied that I had seen Philocomasium.

PERIP. And did you suppose me to be the very vilest of all men, in allowing, with my own knowledge, such an injury so glaringly to be done to my neighbour?

SCEL. Now, at length, I am of opinion that it was done foolishly by me, when I come to understand the matter; but still I did not do it with any ill intent.

PERIP. Yes, but 'twas improperly done; for it befits a person that is a servant to keep his eyes, and hands, and talk, asleep.

SCEL. Now, if after this day I mutter anything, even what I know for certain, give me over to torture; I'll give myself up to you. This time, prithee, do pardon me for this.

PERIP. I shall subdue my feelings, so as to think that it was not done by you with malicious intent. I will pardon you in this matter.

SCEL. May the Gods bless you, then!

PERIP. Troth now, as the Gods may prosper you, really do restrain your tongue henceforth; even that which you do know, don't know, and don't you see what you do see.

SCEL. You counsel me aright; so I'm resolved to do. Are you quite appeased?

PERIP. Away with you.

SCEL. Is there aught else you now require of me?

PERIP. That you would know me not. (Makes as if he is departing.)

SCEL. (aside). He has been cajoling me. He so kindly he vouchsafed his favour not to be angry. I know what plan he is upon: that directly the Captain returns home from the Forum, I may be caught at home. He and Palaestrio together have me in their power: I have perceived that, and for some time I've known it. I' faith, never will I be seeking a bait this day from out of that wicker-net. For now somewhither will I betake myself, and for some days will I lie concealed until this turmoil is hushed and their resentment is softened. Enough punishment for my unlucky prating have I already merited. But still, whatever befals me, I'll be off hence home. (Goes into the Captain's house.)