Scene II.

Enter Davus from Glycerium's.

Davus (to himself). He may be easy now, I warrant him -

Chremes. See yonder's Davus.

Simo. Ha! whence comes the rogue?

Davus. By my assistance, and this stranger's safe. (To himself.)

Simo. What mischief's this? (Listening.)

Davus. A more commodious man, Arriving just in season, at a time So critical, I never knew. (To himself.)

Simo. A knave! Who's that he praises? (Listening.)

Davus. All is now secure. (To himself.)

Simo. Why don't I speak to him?

Davus. My master here! (Turning about.) What shall I do? (To himself.)

Simo. Good Sir, your humble Servant! (Sneering.)

Davus. Oh, Simo! and our Chremes! - All is now Prepar'd within.

Simo. You've taken special care. (Ironically.)

Davus. E'en call them when you please.

Simo. Oh, mighty fine! That to be sure is all that's wanting now. - But tell me, Sir! what business had you there? (Pointing to Glycerium's.)

Davus. I? (Confused.)

Simo. You?

Davus. I-? (Stammering.)

Simo. You, Sir.

Davus. I went in but now. (Disordered.)

Simo. As if I ask'd, how long it was ago.

Davus. With Pamphilus.

Simo. Is Pamphilus within? - Oh torture. - Did not you assure me, Sirrah, They were at variance?

Davus. So they are.

Simo. Why then Is Pamphilus within?

Chremes. Oh, why d'ye think? He's gone to quarrel with her. (Sneering.)

Davus. Nay, but Chremes, There's more in this, and you shall hear strange news. There's an old countryman, I know not who, Is just arriv'd here; confident and shrewd; His look bespeaks him of some consequence. A grave severity is in his face, And credit in his words.

Simo. What story now?

Davus. Nay, nothing, Sir, but what I heard him say.

Simo. And what says he, then?

Davus. That he's well assur'd Glycerium's an Athenian citizen.

Simo. Ho, Dromo! Dromo!

Davus. What now?

Simo. Dromo!

Davus. Hear me.

Simo. Speak but a word more - Dromo!

Davus. Pray, Sir, hear!