Scene VIII.

Enter Pamphilus; Davus behind.

Pam. Where is this villain that has ruined me?

Davus. I'm a lost man.

Pam. And yet I must confess, That I deserv'd this, being such a dolt, A very idiot, to commit my fortunes To a vile slave. I suffer for my folly, But will at least take vengeance on him.

Davus. Let me but once escape the present danger, I'll answer for hereafter.

Pam. To my father What shall I say? - And can I then refuse, Who have but now consented? with what face? I know not what to do.

Davus. I'faith, nor I; And yet it takes up all my thoughts. I'll tell him I've hit on something to delay the match.

Pam. Oh! (Seeing Davus.)

Davus. I am seen.

Pam. So, good Sir! What say you? See, how I'm hamper'd with your fine advice.

Davus (coming forward). But I'll deliver you.

Pam. Deliver me?

Davus. Certainly, Sir.

Pam. What, as you did just now?

Davus. Better, I hope.

Pam. And can you then believe That I would trust you, rascal? You amend My broken fortunes, or redeem them lost? You, who to-day, from the most happy state, Have thrown me upon marriage. - Did not I Foretell it would be thus?

Davus. You did indeed.

Pam. And what do you deserve for this?

Davus. The gallows. - Yet suffer me to take a little breath, I'll devise something presently.

Pam. Alas, I have not leisure for your punishment. The time demands attention to myself, Nor will be wasted in revenge on you.