Simo. Why? because of a wicked mind one can expect nothing but wicked intentions[83]. But if I catch him at his tricks—However, ’tis in vain to say more: if it appear, as I trust it will, that my son makes no objection to the marriage, I have only to gain Chremes, whom I must prevail upon by entreaty; and I have great hopes that I shall accomplish it. What I wish you to do is, to assist me in giving out this marriage for truth, to terrify Davus, and to watch the conduct of my son, what he does; and what course he and his hopeful servant resolve upon.
Sosia. It is enough, Sir; I will take care to obey you. Now, I suppose, we may go in.
Simo. Go, I will follow presently[84].
[Exit Sosia.
Scene II.
Scene II.
Simo, Davus.
Simo. My son, I have no doubt, will refuse to marry; for I observed that Davus seemed terribly perplexed just now, when he heard that the match was to take place: but here he comes[85].
Davus. (not seeing Simo.) I wondered that this affair seemed likely to pass off so easily! and always mistrusted the drift of my old master’s extraordinary patience and gentleness; who, though he was refused the wife he wished for, for his son, never mentioned a word of it to us, or seemed to take any thing amiss.
Simo. (aside.) But now he will, as you shall feel, rascal.