_Pam._ Now, If this is true, I see you are safe. You would not find The servant a slattern, where there’s a lover.
_Ph._ When I told her that you were returned, and had sent for her. She suddenly stopped in her work; the tears ran down her cheeks In such a way, it was easy to see ’twas for love of you.—
_Clin._ Perdition take me now, if I know where I am for joy. I was so afraid.
_Ph._ Ay, no fear. But don’t forget who’s who.
_Pam._ And have you taught the ladies Their parts?
_Ph._ Antiphila’s part is nothing to learn at all; Except she must not call your friend by his right name: But Gorgo—
_Ph._ Why she was hard to persuade, but once Persuaded, I do not fear her. I am more afraid of you; Don’t you forget that she doesn’t belong to you, mind! The slip 573 Of a word might ruin all. And don’t make signs.
_Ph._ Stay; let us stand aside; And watch them till they see us.
Upon my word, my dear Antiphila, I do praise And envy you too, when I see how all your study has been To make your mind as charming and sweet as your face. Lord love you! 579 I’m not surprised at any one wanting to marry you. I see from what you’ve said what kind of person you are; And when I come to think of the sort of life, which you And people like you, lead, who keep admirers off At arms’-length, then no wonder, I say, that you sh^d be Just what you are, and others, like me, so different. Then once your mind made up to share and spend your days With the man whose disposition is most congenial to you, He never leaves you more: for mutual benefits Must bind you so closely, that no misfortune can ever come To cross your love.
I cannot tell what others do; 590 But I know I always have wished, and done my best, to find My happiness in what pleased him.
_Clin._ (_aside_). Ah, my Antiphila, And that is why I love you, why I am now returned.
_Gor._ Who is that young man who is standing to look at us?
_Gor._ Why, what in the world’s the matter, my dear?
_Gor._ Do say, what is it astonishes you?
_Ant._ My long-expected Clinia, it is you.
_Ant._ Oh, I am glad you have come back safe.
_Clin._ Do I hold thee, Antiphila, thou most desired of my heart!
_Ph._ Take care. 600 Remember. Here comes the old man.
I thought so; here you are. I heard your voices. I welcome you all. How very nice! Now, Pamphilus, pray present me!