Scene III.

Enter Demipho and Nausistrata .

Dem. Come then, Nausistrata, afford us now A little of your usual art, and try To put this woman in good humor with us; That what is done she may do willingly.

Naus. I will.

Dem. And now assist us with your counsel, As with your cash a little while ago.

Naus. With all my heart: and I am only sorry That 'tis my husband's fault I can't do more.

Dem. How so?

Naus. Because he takes such little care Of the estate my father nurs'd so well: For from these very farms he never fail'd To draw two talents by the year. But ah! What difference between man and man!

Dem. Two talents?

Naus. Aye - in worse times than these - and yet two talents?

Dem. Huy!

Naus. What, are you surpris'd?

Dem. Prodigiously.

Naus. Would I had been a man! I'd show -

Dem. No doubt.

Naus. - By what means -

Dem. Nay, but spare yourself a little For the encounter with the girl: lest she, Flippant and young, may weary you too much.

Naus. - Well, I'll obey your orders: but I see My husband coming forth.