At last, when Chrysis was ready:
“Where are the shades?” she said to the slave.
This was the term applied to all the diners, except to one alone, the guest par excellence. The guest in honour of whom the dinner was given brought whomsoever he pleased with him, and the “shades” had nothing to do but to bring their bed-cushions and prove themselves people of breeding.
Aretias answered:
“Naukrates has invited Philodemos with his mistress, Faustina, whom he has brought back from Italy. He has also invited Phrasilas and Timon, and your friend Seso of Cuidos.”
Aretias opened the door for her.
Seso entered at this precise moment.
“Chrysis!”
“My darling!”