Phæd. Of course, it’s because[33] this door is always open to me, or because I’m the highest in your favor?
Thais. Pass those matters by.
Phæd. How pass them by? O Thais, Thais, I wish that I had equal affection with yourself, and that it were in like degree, that either this, might distress you in the same way that it distresses me, or that I might be indifferent at this being done by you.
Thais. Prithee, don’t torment yourself, my life, my Phædria. Upon my faith, I did it, not because I love or esteem any person more than you; but the case was such that it was necessary to be done.
Par. (ironically.) I suppose that, poor thing, you shut him out of doors, for love, according to the usual practice.
Thais. Is it thus you act, Parmeno? Well, well. (To Phædria.) But listen—the reason for which I desired you to be sent for hither—
Phæd. Go on.
Thais. First tell me this; can this fellow possibly hold his tongue? (pointing to Parmeno.)
Par. What, I? Perfectly well. But, hark you, upon these conditions I pledge my word to you; the truth that I hear, I’m silent upon, and retain it most faithfully; but if I hear what’s false and without foundation, it’s out at once; I’m full of chinks, and leak in every direction. Therefore, if you wish it to be kept secret, speak the truth.
Thais. My mother was a Samian; she lived at Rhodes—