Then, Pertinax, since what even now seemed presumption on your part is presented to me as an act commended by the immortal gods and goddesses...!
[Holds out a hand to him.]
Pertinax.
O joyful day! Words fail me! Even Anacreon disowns me! I can only express myself in terms of horticulture! Already the myrtle beloved of Venus puts forth shoots, and blossoming with the rose, twines itself in a nuptial wreath about Tertulla’s brow!
Tertulla.
How beautiful! Speak more to me in such fashion! [Draws him aside.]
Asterius.
[In the inner room.] Bring in the banquet. Set the tables. Place the couches! Let nothing be wanting to the feast! [He enters, followed by Nerva and slaves bearing lamps, dishes, and all the material for a royal feast.] This spot, which witnessed the prodigy of my child’s restoration to sight, shall witness equally our gratitude!... Well, Valentinus! Has Tulla convinced you of her loathing for that insect Pertinax? If so we will amuse ourselves while feasting in devising means to torture him, after which we will all be baptised! I understand your god insists on mercy to one’s enemies, wherefore I delay allegiance to him till Pertinax shall have been torn limb from limb!
Nerva.