Scene III.

Re-enter Menedemus, with Clitipho and Syrus .

Clit. And can it, Menedemus, can it be, My father has so suddenly cast off All natural affection? for what act? What crime, alas! so heinous have I done? It is a common failing.

Mene. This I know, Should be more heavy and severe to you On whom it falls: and yet am I no less Affected by it, though I know not why, And have no other reason for my grief, But that I wish you well.

Clit. Did not you say My father waited here?

Mene. Aye; there he is.

Exit Menedemus .

Chrem. Why d'ye accuse your father, Clitipho? Whate'er I've done, was providently done Tow'rd you and your imprudence. When I saw Your negligence of soul, and that you held The pleasures of to-day your only care, Regardless of the morrow; I found means That you should neither want, nor waste my substance. When you, whom fair succession first made heir, Stood self-degraded by unworthiness, I went to those the next in blood to you, Committing and consigning all to them. There shall your weakness, Clitipho, be sure Ever to find a refuge; food, and raiment, And roof to fly to.

Clit. Ah me!

Chrem. Better thus, Than, you being heir, for Bacchis to have all.

Syrus. Distraction! what disturbances have I, Wretch that I am, all unawares created!

Clit. Would I were dead!

Chrem. Learn first what 'tis to live. When you know that, if life displeases you, Then talk of dying.

Syrus. Master, may I speak?

Chrem. Speak.

Syrus. But with safety?

Chrem. Speak.

Syrus. How wrong is this, Or rather what extravagance and madness, To punish him for my offense!

Chrem. Away! Do not you meddle. No one blames you, Syrus! Nor need you to provide a sanctuary, Or intercessor.

Syrus. What is it you do?

Chrem. I am not angry, nor with you, nor him: Nor should you take offense at what I do.

Exit Chremes .