Act II, Scene VI

Enter BYRRHIA, unperceived, at a distance behind SIMO.

BYR. (apart to himself.) My master has ordered me, leaving my business, to keep an eye on Pamphilus to-day, what he is doing with regard to the marriage. I was to learn it; for that reason, I have now followed him (pointing to SIMO) as he came hither. Himself, as well, I see standing with Davus close at hand; I’ll note this.

SIM. (apart to himself.) I see that both of them are here.

DAV. (in a low voice to PAMPHILUS.) Now then, be on your guard.

SIM. Pamphilus!

DAV. (in a low voice.) Look round at him as though taken unawares.

PAM. (turning round sharply.) What, my father!

DAV. (in a low voice.) Capital!

SIM. I wish you to marry a wife to-day, as I was saying.

BYR. (apart.) Now I’m in dread for our side, as to what he will answer.

PAM. Neither in that nor in any thing else shall you ever find any hesitation in me.

BYR. (apart.) Hah!

DAV. (in a low voice to PAMPHILUS.) He is struck dumb.

BYR. (apart.) What a speech!

SIM. You act as becomes you, when that which I ask I obtain with a good grace.

DAV. (aside to PAMPHILUS.) Am I right?

BYR. My master, so far as I learn, has missed his wife.

SIM. Now, then, go in-doors, that you mayn’t be causing delay when you are wanted.

PAM. I’ll go. (Goes into the house.)

BYR. (apart.) Is there, in no case, putting trust in any man? That is a true proverb which is wont to be commonly quoted, that “all had rather it to be well for themselves than for another.” I remember noticing, when I saw her, that she was a young woman of handsome figure; wherefore I am the more disposed to excuse Pamphilus, if he has preferred that he himself, rather than the other, should embrace her in his slumbers. I’ll carry back these tidings, that, in return for this evil he may inflict evil upon me. (Exit.