Scene VI.

Re-enter Davus with the child.

Mysis. Prithee, man, what now? Where are you carrying the child?

Davus. Oh, Mysis, Now have I need of all your ready wit, And all your cunning.

Mysis. What are you about?

Davus. Quick, take the boy, and lay him at our door.

Mysis. What, on the bare ground?

Davus. From the altar then Take herbs and strew them underneath.

Mysis. And why Can't you do that yourself?

Davus. Because, supposing There should be need to swear to my old master I did not lay the bantling there myself I may with a safe conscience.

Mysis. I conceive. But pray how came this sudden qualm upon you?

Davus. Nay, but be quick, that you may comprehend What I propose. - ( Mysis lays the child at Simo's door.) Oh Jupiter! (Looking out.)

Mysis. What now?

Davus. Here comes the father of the bride! - I change My first-intended purpose.

Mysis. What you mean I can't imagine.

Davus. This way from the right, I'll counterfeit to come:- And be't your care To throw in aptly now and then a word, To help out the discourse as need requires.

Mysis. Still what you're at, I can not comprehend. But if I can assist, as you know best, Not to obstruct your purposes, I'll stay. ( Davus retires.)