Chremes. Fables!
Simo. Upon my honour what I tell you is a fact.
Chremes. A fact, by Hercules, that I’ll explain to you. The quarrels of lovers, is the renewal[152] of their love.
Simo. You are right, and that is the reason of my request: I am anxious that we should seize this opportunity to prevent them, while his love is weakened by her insolence and upbraidings. Let us then hasten his marriage, before the artifices and hypocritical tears of these creatures recal his love-sick mind to pity. And, I trust, Chremes, that a well-assorted marriage, and the endearing society of his wife, will enable my son to extricate himself easily from their toils.
Chremes. You may view the affair in that light: but I cannot think, either that Pamphilus could be faithful to my daughter, or that I could bear to see him otherwise.
Simo. But how do you know that, without you put him to the trial.
Chremes. But to stake the happiness of my daughter on that trial, is hard indeed.
Simo. Yet the most serious mischief, after all, can amount but to a separation[153], which may the gods avert. But, on the other hand, if he fulfils our wishes, consider the advantages that will result from the marriage: in the first place, you will restore to your friend a son: you will ensure to yourself, a dutiful son: and, to your daughter, a faithful husband.
Chremes. What occasion for so many words: if you think this step so very essential to reclaim your son, I should be sorry to throw any impediment in your way.
Simo. O Chremes! you well deserve the love I’ve always borne you.