Syr. O my dear Demea! upon my word, you are a worthy man! I have strictly taken care of both these sons of yours, from childhood; I have taught, advised, and carefully instructed them in every thing I could.
Dem. The thing is evident; and then besides all this, to cater for them, secretly bring home a wench, prepare a morning entertainment;[99] these are the accomplishments of no ordinary person.
Syr. O, what a delightful man!
Dem. Last of all, he assisted to-day in purchasing this Music-wench—he had the management of it; it is right he should be rewarded; other servants will be encouraged thereby: besides, he (pointing to Æschinus) desires it to be so.
Mic. (to Æschinus.) Do you desire this to be done?
Æsch. I do wish it.
Mic. Why then, if you desire it, just come hither, Syrus, to me (performing the ceremony of manumission); be a free man.[100]
Syr. You act generously; I return my thanks to you all;—and to you, Demea, in particular.
Dem. I congratulate you.
Æsch. And I.