Davus. The moment I begin to speak, you imagine that I am trying to impose upon you.
Simo. Quite without cause, hey, Mr. Innocence?
Davus. Truly, at this rate, I shall hardly dare open my [147]mouth.
Simo. One thing I am sure of; that this child-birth is all counterfeited.
Davus. You have discovered the truth; but, nevertheless, they will not fail to lay a child at our door very shortly. I tell you, Sir, beforehand, that this will happen, that you may be prepared for it; and not afterwards say, that it was done by the advice and contrivance of Davus. Indeed, Sir, I wish to remove the unjust opinion you entertain of me.
Simo. How do you know this?
Davus. I heard it, and believe it to be true. Many circumstances induce me to form this conjecture. First of all, this girl affirms that she is with child by Pamphilus, which I have discovered to be false. Now, finding that the marriage preparations are going forward in our house[148], she sends her maid to fetch a midwife, and to provide a child[149]: at the same time, thinking that unless they managed that you should see a child, the marriage would not be impeded.
Simo. But, as you had discovered all this, why did you not directly acquaint my son with their designs?
Davus. Why, Sir, who was it that prevailed on him to break off the connexion? was it not Davus? We all know how madly he loved her: but now, on the contrary, he prudently resolves to marry. In short, Sir, leave this business to me: and do you persevere, (as you have begun,) in forwarding the marriage: and, I trust, that Heaven will be propitious to your endeavours!
Simo. Well, now, go in, and wait for me.