_Pam._ (_aside_). This is the very thing we want. If now I could get him to ask Antiphila here to-day, Clinia of course would come: I’ll try and work it.
_Chr._ Well? Answer me. Could you do this?
_Pam._ Invite her here to spend the feast with us, And bring a friend.
_Chr._ It happens, Pamphilus, we are short of guests; I find 311 My old friend Phanias has gone from home to-day. Archonides’ wife is ill; they cannot come: and now Just the last thing Daniel has disappointed me. The two young ladies would help us out: besides I am sure ’Twould please your mother to ask them.
_Chr._ Allow me to judge of that; and since you said you were able To bring them—bring them.
_Pam._ Oh, if you wish it, I’m ready enough; I’ll see they come: but I had forgotten; there is one more Besides Philolaches.
_Chr._ Who then? I beg you’ll bring 320 None of your Clinias here.
_Chr._ He is it? That’s quite another thing: A gentleman At first sight, Pamphilus; I wish that all your friends Were such as he. By all means bring him. Present him now. His name?
_Chr._ (_aside_). I like his appearance much: When I came up he went respectfully aside— Excellent manners. (_To Clin._) Ha, good Clitipho, how d’ye do? ’Tis time that we were acquainted. I understand my son Has invited you to our house. There’s not much I can offer, 329 But _My little pot is soon hot_. I am very glad And proud to have you my guest.
_Chr._ No thanks, I pray. At present excuse me; for I must go And prepare my wife to receive her guests. You’re sure they’ll come?
_Chr._ And I hope they may. ’Twill make our numbers up: We’ll have a merry feast.
_Pam._ Ay, sir.... [_Exit Chremes within._ And so we shall, Clinia.
_Clin._ I did not look for this, nor wish it, and do not like it.
_Pam._ Not like it! Is it not perfect? If all the gods in heaven Had put their heads together to assist in your affairs, They could not have done it better than I. My father bids 340 You and Antiphila both to spend the day; and he, Charmed with her grace and beauty, will use his influence To bring your father round.
_Clin._ I would not risk so much On the fancy of any man: and though I have a hope Antiphila’s charms will plead not vainly, that must be When she’s my wife, not now: and they must urge themselves; Another cannot paint them.
