Classic Audiobook Collection - The Brothers by Terence ~ Full Audiobook [comedy]

Episode Date: August 21, 2023

The Brothers by Terence audiobook. Genre: comedy In The Brothers (Adelphoe), Terence sets a sharply observed domestic comedy in Athens where two very different men try to raise the next generation. Demea is severe, hardworking, and convinced that discipline is the only path to virtue. His brother Micio is relaxed, affluent, and proud of the trust-based freedom he gives his adopted son, Aeschinus. When a scandal erupts in the city and Aeschinus is blamed for behavior that looks reckless and cruel, the brothers' philosophies collide in public and in private. As rumors spread and tempers flare, Demea becomes certain that leniency has bred corruption, while Micio insists that harshness only teaches young men to lie. Meanwhile, the quieter Ctesipho, Demea's natural son raised under strict rules, is pulled into the same tangle of desire, loyalty, and fear of exposure. Through quick dialogue, clever servants, and anxious lovers, Terence turns family conflict into a debate about love, authority, and what it means to truly know your children. For ad-free listening try our premium subscription Chapters (Approximate) (00:00:00) Chapter 1 (00:14:33) Chapter 2 (00:33:00) Chapter 3 (00:55:33) Chapter 4 (01:21:47) Chapter 5 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Adelphi, the brothers. Seen, Athens, before the houses of Misio and Sostrata. Act the first. Scene 1. And the Misio, calling to a servant within. Storax! Ischinos has not returned home from the entertainment last night, nor any of the servants who went to fetch him.

To himself. Really, they say it with reason. If you are absent, anywhere, or if you stay a-bronel. at any time, to her better for that to happen, which your wife says against you, and which in her passion she imagines in her mind than the things which fond parents fancy. A wife, if you stay long abroad, either imagines that you are in love or are beloved, or that you are drinking and indulging your inclination, and that you are only taking your pleasure, while she herself is miserable.

As for myself, in consequence of my son, not having returned home, What do I imagine? In what ways am I not disturbed? For fear, lest he may either have taken cold or have fallen down somewhere, or have broken some limb. Oh dear, that any man should take it into his head or find out what is dearer to him than he is to himself. And yet he is not my son, but my brothers. He is quite different in disposition. I, from my very youth upward, have lived a comfortable town life and taken my ease,

and what they esteem a piece of luck, I have never had a wife. He, on the contrary to all this, has spent his life in the country, and has always lived laboriously, and penuriously. He married a wife, and has two sons. This one, the elder of them, I have adopted. I have brought him up from an infant, and considered and loved him as my own. In him I center my delight. This object alone is dear to me.

On the other hand, I take all due care that he may hold me equally dear. I give, I overlook, I do not judge it necessary to exert my authority in everything. In fine, the things that youth prompts to, and that others do unknown to their fathers, I have used my son not to conceal for me. For he, who as the practice is, will dare to tell a lie or to deceive his father, will still more dare to do so to others. i think it better to restrain children through a sense of shame and liberal treatment than through fear on these points my brother does not agree with me nor do they please him he often comes to me exclaiming what are you about monsieur why do you ruin for us this youth why does he intrigue why does he drink why do you supply him with the means for these goings on you indulge him with too much dress

you are very inconsiderate he himself is too strict beyond what is just and reasonable and he is very much mistaken in my opinion at all events who thinks that an authority is more firm or more lasting which is established by force then that which is founded on affection such is my mode of reasoning and thus do i persuade myself he who compelled by harsh treatment does his duty so long as he thinks it will be known, is on his guard. If he hopes that it will be concealed, he again returns to his natural bent. He, whom you have secured by kindness, acts from inclination. He is anxious to return like for like, present and absent. He will be the same. This is the duty of a parent to accustom a son to do what is right, rather of his own choice, than through fear of another. In this, the father differs from the master. He who cannot do this, Let him confess that he does not know how to govern children.

But, is not this, the very man of whom I was speaking? Surely it is he. I don't know why it is. I see him out of spirits. I suppose he'll now be scolding as usual. Demia, I am glad to see you well. Scene two. Enter Demia.

Oh, opportunely met. You are the very man I was looking for. Why are you out of spirits? Do you ask me, when we have such a son as Askenus, why I'm out of spirit? Misiul, aside. Did I not say it would be so? To Di Mia. What has he been doing?

What has he been doing? He, who is ashamed of nothing and fears no one, no things that any law can control him. But I passed by what has been previously done. What a thing he has just perpetrated. Why? What is it? He has broken open a door and forced his way into another person's house, beaten to death the master himself and all the household,

and carried off a wench whom he had a fancy for. All people are exclaiming that it was a most disgraceful proceeding. How many, Mikio, told me of this as I was coming here? It's in everybody's mouth. In Finé, if an example must be cited, does he not see his brother, giving his attention, mentioned a business and living frugally and soberly in the country. No action of his is like this.

When I say this to him, Miko, I say it to you. You allow him to be corrupted. Never is there anything more unreasonable than a man who wants experience, who thinks nothing right except what he himself has done. What is the meaning of that? Because, Damiya, he misjudged these matters. It is no heinous crime, believe me, for a young man to intrigue or to drink. It is not, nor yet for him to break open a door.

If neither I nor you did so, it was poverty that did not allow us to do so. Do you now claim that is a merit to yourself, which you then did from necessity? That is unfair, for if we had had the means to do so, we should have done the same. and if you were a man you would now suffer that other son of yours to act thus now while his age will excuse it rather than when he has got you

after long wishing it out of the way he should still do so at a future day and at an age more unsuited oh Jupiter you sir are driving me to distraction is it not a heinous thing for a young man to do these things

oh do listen to me and do not ever I everlastingly din me upon the subject. You gave me your son to adopt. He became mine. If he offends in anything, de Mia, he offends against me. In that case, I shall bear the greater part of the inconvenience. Does he feast?

Does he drink? Does he smell of perfumes? It is at my cost. Does he intrigue? Money shall be found by me, so long as it suits me. When it shall be no longer convenient, probably he'll be shut out of doors. Has he broken open a door? It shall be replaced. He has torn anyone's clothes? They shall be mended. Thanks to the gods, I both have the means for doing this, and these things

are not as yet an annoyance. In fine, either desist or else find some arbitrator between us. I will show that in this matter, you are the most to blame. Ah, me. Learn to be a father from those who are really so. You are his father by nature. I by my anxiety. You, feel any anxiety? Oh dear, if you persist, I'll leave you. Is it thus you act? Am I so often to hear about the same thing?

I have some concern for my son. I have some concern for him too. But, de Mia, let us each be concerned for his own share, you for the one, and I for the other. For, to concern yourself about both, is almost the same thing as to demand him back again, whom you entrusted to me. Alas, Mikyo. So it seems to me. What am I to say to this? If it pleases you, henceforth, let him spend, squander, and destroy.

It's nothing to me. If I say one word after this... Again, angry, to Mia. Won't you believe me? Do I demand him back, whom I have entrusted? I am concerned for him. I am not a stranger in blood. If I do interpose, well, well, I have done.

You desire me to concern myself for one of them. I do concern myself, and I give thanks to the gods. He is just as I would have him. That fellow of yours will find it out that the future day, I don't wish to say anything more harsh against him. Exit Scene 3 Miseo alone These things are not nothing at all, nor yet all just as he says.

Still, they do give me some uneasiness, but I am unwilling to show him that I took them amiss, for he is such a man, when I would pacify him, I steadily oppose and resist him. And, in spite of it, he hardly puts up with it like other men. But if I were to inflame, or even to humor his anger, I should certainly be as mad as himself. And yet Iskinos has done me some injustice in this affair. What courtesan has he not intrigued with? Or to which of them has he not made some present? At last, he recently told me that he wished to take a wife.

I suppose he was just tired of them all. I was in hopes that the warmth of youth had now subsided. I was delighted. But look now, he is at it again. However, I am determined to know it, whatever it is, and go meet the fellow, if he is at the forum. Exit. End of Act 1.

Act the 2nd of Adelphi or the Brothers by Terrence, translated by Henry Thomas Riley. This is a Librevox recording. All Librevox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit. visit Librevox.org. Act the second. Scene 1

Enter Iskines and Parmino with the musical, followed by Sennio and the crowd of people. I beseech your fellow citizens. Do give aid to a miserable and innocent man. Do assist the distressed. Iskiness to the girl. Be quiet,

and now then stand here just where you are. Why do you look back? There's no danger. He shall never touch you while I am here. I'll have her, in spite of all. Though he is a villain, he'll not risk today getting a second beating. Hear me, Ashinus, that you may not say that you were in ignorance of my calling. I am a procurer.

I know it. And of his higher character. as anyone ever was. When you shall be excusing yourself by and by, how that you wish this injury had not been done me, I shall not value it this. Snapping his fingers. Depend upon it.

I'll prosecute my rights, and you shall never pay with words for the evil that you have done me, indeed. I know these ways of yours. I wish it hadn't happened. I'll take my oath that you did not deserve this injustice, while I myself have been treated in a disgraceful manner. Iskin as to Pomeno.

Go first with all dispatch and open the door. Pamanu opens the door. But you will avail nothing by this. Iskinness to the girl. Now then, step in. Senio, coming between. But I'll not later. Step this way, Parmino.

You are gone too far that way. Here. Pointing. Stand close by him. There, that's what I want. Now then, take care you don't move your eyes in any direction from mine, that there may be no delay if I give you the sign, to your fist being instantly planted in his jaws.

I'd have him then try that Iskinus to Parmino Now then, observe me Parmeno to Sanio Let go the woman strikes him Oh, scandalous deed He shall repeat it if you don't take care

Parmino strikes him again Oh, shocking Iskines to Parmino I didn't give the sign But still make your mistakes on that side in preference Now then go. Parmino goes with the musical into Misios' house. What is the meaning of this?

Have you the sway here, Ashinus? If I had it, you should be exalted for your desserts. What business have you with me? None. How then do you know who I am? I don't want to. Have I touched anything of yours? If you had touched anything of yours?

If you had touched it, you'd have got a drubbing. What greater right then have you to take my property for which I paid my money? Answer me that. It were better for you not to be making a disturbance here before the house. For if you persist in being impertinent, you shall be dragged in at once, and there you shall be lashed to death with whips. A free man, with whips. So it shall be.

Oh, you shameless fellow, is this the place where they say there is equal liberty for all? If you have now raved enough, procurer, now then listen, if you please. Why, is it I that have been raving, or you against me? Leave alone all that and come to the point. What point? Where am I to come to? Are you willing now that I should say something that concerns you? With all my heart, only so it be something that's fair. Very fine, a procurer wishing me not to say what's unfair.

I am a procurer. I confess it, the common bane of youth, a perjurer, a public nuisance, Still, no injury has befallen you from me? Why, faith, that remains to come. Pray, Ashinas. Do come back to the point at which you set out. You bought her for twenty minne, and may your bargain never thrive, that some shall be given for her. What if I don't choose to sell her to you?

Will you compel me? By no means. I was afraid you would. Neither do I think that a woman can be sold who is free, for I claim her by action of freedom. Now consider which you choose. Take the money, or prepare yourself for the action. Think of it, procure, till I return.

He goes into the house of Miseo. Scene two, Senio alone. Oh, supreme. dream Jupiter. I do by no means wonder that men run mad through ill usage. He has dragged me out of my house, beaten me, taken my property away against my will, and has given me unfortunate wretch more than 500 blows. In return for all this ill usage, He demands the girl to be made over to him for just the same price at which he was bought. But however, since he has so well deserved of me, be it so.

He demands what is his due. Very well, I consent then, provided only he gives the money. But I suspect this. when i have said that i will sell her for so much he'll be getting witnesses forthwith that i have sold her as to getting the money it's all the dream call the gain by and buy come back to-morrow i could bear with that too hard as it is if he would only pay it but i can say-and-and-bye come back to-morrow i could bear with that too hard as it is if he would only pay it but i can this to be the fact. When you take up this trade, you must brook and bear in silence the affronts of these young fellows. However, no one will pay me. It's in vain for me to be reckoning upon that. Scene 3. Enter Cyrus from the House of Missio. Cyrus, speaking to Iskinus within. Say no more. I myself will arrange with him. I'll make him glad to take the money at once and say besides that he has been fairly dealt with.

Addressing Sanyo. Sanyo, how is this that only here you have been having some dispute or other with my master? I never saw a dispute on more unequal terms than the one that. has happened a day between us. I, with being thumped, he, with beating me, were both of us quite tired. Your own fault.

What could I do? You ought to have yielded to the young man. How could I more so, when today I have even afforded my face to his blows? Well, are you aware, of what I tell you. To slight money on some occasions is somewhat the surest gain.

What? Were you afraid, you greatest simpleton alive, if you had parted with ever so little of your right, you had humoured the young man that he would not repay you with interest. I do not pay ready money for hope.

Then you'll never make a fortune. June. Get out with you, Sanio. You don't know how to take him mankind. I believe that to be the better plan, but I was never so cunning as not, whenever I was able to get it, to prefer getting ready money. Calm, calm, I know your spirit, as if twenty mine-eye were anything at all to you in comparison to obliging him. besides they say that you are setting out for cyprus sennio aside ha that you have been buying up many things to take thither and that the vessel is hired this i know your mind is in suspense however when you return thence i hope you'll settle the matter not a foot do i stir "'Aside. "'Heavens, I'm undone.

"'It was upon this hope, "'they devised their project.' "'Cyrus, aside. "'He is alarmed. "'I've brought the fellow into a fix.' "'Sanio, aside. "'Oh, what villainy! "'Just look at that,

"'how he has nicked me "'in the very joint. Several women have been purchased and other things as well for me to take to Cyprus. If I don't get there to the fair, my loss will be very great. Then if I postpone this business and settle it when I come back from there, it will be of no use. The matter will be quite forgotten. Come at last thou say, why did you? you to lay it, where have you been?

So that I had better lose it all together than either stay here so long or be suing for it then. Have you by this reckoned up what you calculate will be your profits? Is this honourable of him? Ought Ashinus to attempt this?

Ought he to endeavour to take her away from by downright violence. Cyrus aside. He gives ground. To Sanio. I have this one proposal to make. See if you fully approve of it.

Rather than you should run the risk, Sanio, of getting or losing the hole, have it. He will manage to scrape together ten, mine I, from some quarter or other. Ah, me. unfortunate wretch i am now in danger of even losing part of the principle has he no shame he has loosened all my teeth my head too is full of bumps with his cuffs and would he defraud me as well i shall go nowhere just as you please have you anything more to say before i go why yes cyrus

in faith i have this to request whatever the matters that are passed rather than go to law let what is my own be returned for me at least cyrus the sum she cost me i know that you have not hitherto made trial of my friendship you will have no occasion to say that i am unmindful or unmindful or ungrateful. I'll do the best I can. But I see Tesifo. He's in high spirits about his mistress. What about what I was asking you? Stay a little. Scene 4. Enter Tesifo at the other side of the stage. From any man, when you stand in need of it, you are glad to receive a service. But of a truth, it is dubly acceptable. If it does your kindness, who want to do so? Oh, brother, brother, how can I sufficiently commend you?

This I'm quite sure of. I can never speak of you in such high terms, but that your deserts will surpass it. For I am of opinion that I possess this one thing in especial beyond all others, a brother than whom no individual is more highly endowed with the highest qualities. Oh, tessie foe! Cyrus, where is Eshenus? Why look, he's at home

waiting for you. Huh. What's the matter? What's the matter? Just through him, Cyrus, that I am now alive, generous creature. Has he not deemed everything

of secondary importance to himself in comparison with my happiness? The reproach, the discredit, my own amurredence he has taken upon himself. There can be nothing beyond this, but what means that noise at the door? Stay, stay, tis Eshinos himself coming out.

Scene 5. And the Iskinners from the house of Miseo. Where is that villain? Senio aside. He's looking for me. Is he bringing anything with him? Confusion. I don't see anything. Iskinus took Tassifo. Ha, well met. You are the very man I was looking for.

How goes it, Tessifo? All is safe. Away then with your melancholy. By my trot, I certainly will away with it when I have such a brother as you. Oh, my dear Eshenus, oh my brother. Alas, I am unwilling to praise you any more to your face, lest you should think I do so rather for flattery

than through gratitude. Go to you, simpleton, as though we didn't by this time understand each other, Tessifo. This grieves me that we knew of it almost too late, and that the matter had come to such a pass that if all mankind had wished, they could not possibly have assisted you. I felt ashamed.

Fah, that is folly, not shame, about such a trifling matter to be almost flying the country. It is shocking to be mentioned. I pray that gods may forbid it. it. I did wrong. Iskines, in a lower voice. What says Sanyo to us at last? He is pacified at last.

I'll go to the forum to pay him off. You, Decepho, step indoors to her. Sanio aside to Cyrus. Cyrus, do urge the matter. Cyrus to Iskiness. Let us be off, for he is in haste to Cyprus. Not particularly so Although still

I'm stopping here Doing nothing at all It shall be paid Don't fear But he is to pay it all He shall pay it all Only hold your tongue and follow us this way I'll follow

Ktesypho As Cyrus is going Harky Harky Sides Cyrus turning back Well now what is it? Ktersifo, aside. Pray do discharge that most abominable fellow as soon as possible. For fear, in case he should become more angry, by some means or other, this matter should reach my father, and then I should be ruined forever.

That shall not happen. Be of good heart. Meanwhile, enjoy yourself indoors with her. and under their couches to be spread for us and the other things to be got ready. As soon as this business is settled, I shall come home with the provisions. Pray do so. Since this has turned out so well, let us make a cheerful day of it. Kastiffo goes into the house of Misio, and Axiomte Iskinus and Cyrus, followed by Saneo.

End of Act 2. Act 3 of Adelphi or The Brothers by Terrence, translated by Henry Thomas Riley. This is a Librivox recording. All Librivox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit Librivox.org. Act the third. Scene 1.

Enter Sostrata and Canthara from the House of the Former. Prithy, my dear nurse, how is it like to end? Like to end, you ask. And truth, right well, Etra. Her pains are just beginning, my dear. You are in a fright now, just as though you had never been present on such an occasion. Never been in labor yourself. Unfortunate woman that I am.

I have not a person at home. We are quite alone. Geta, too, is absent. I have no one to go for the midwife or to fetch Eskinis. Faith, you'll certainly be here just now, for he never lets a day pass without visiting us. He is my sole comfort in my afflictions. "'Things could not have happened, mistress, more for the advantage of your daughter than they have. Seeing that violence was offered her, so far as he is concerned, it is most lucky, such a person of such disposition and feelings, a member of so respectable a family.'

"'It is indeed, as you say. I entreat to the gods that he may be preserved to us.' "'They stand apart on seeing Getta.' "'Seen two. Enter Getta on the other side of the stage.' Get out to himself. Hmm, now such is our condition, that if all were to combine all their counsels, and to seek a remedy for this mischief that has befallen myself, my mistress, and her daughter,

they could find no relief. Oh, wretched me! So many calamities beset us on a sudden we could not possibly extricate ourselves. violence, poverty, oppression, desertion, infamy? What an age is this? Oh, shocking villainy! Oh, a cursed race!

Oh, impious man! Unhappy me! How is it that I see Getta hurrying along, thus terrified? Getta continuing. Whom neither promises, nor oaths, nor compassion could move or soften. nor yet the fact that the delivery was nigh on hand of the unfortunate woman on whom he had so shamefully committed violence sastrata apart to canthara i don't well understand what he is talking about pray let us go nearer to him sastrata Geta, continuing. Ah, wretched me, I am scarcely master of my senses.

I am so inflamed with anger. There is nothing that I would like better than for all that family to be thrown in my way that I might give vent to all my wrath upon them while this wound is still fresh. I could be content with any punishment, so I might only wreak my vengeance on them. First I would stop the breath of the old fellow himself who gave being to this monster. Then, as for his prompter, Cyrus, out upon him, how I would tear him piecemeal. I would snatch him by the middle up aloft and dash him head downward upon the earth, so that with his brains he would be strew the road.

I would pull out the eyes of the young fellow himself, and afterwards hurl him headlong over some precipice. The others I would rush along, drive, drag, crush, and trample them underfoot. But why do I delay at once to acquaint my mistress with this calamity? Moves as if going. So Strata to Canthara. Let us call him back. Getter. Well, leave me alone, whoever you are.

Tis I. So Strata. Geta turning round. Why, where are you? You are the very person I was looking for. I was in quest of you. It's very fortunate you have met me. What's the matter? Why are you trembling?

Alas! Alas! My dear Gatta, why, in such haste? Do take breath. Quite. Poses. Why, what means this quite? Undone. It's all over with us. Say then, I entreat you what is the... matter. Now?

What now, Getta? Askinus. What about him? Has abandoned our family. Then I am undone. Why so? He has attached himself to another woman. Woe unto wretched me. And he makes no secret of it. He himself has carried her off openly from a procurer.

Are you quite sure of this? Quite sure. I saw it myself. self, Stostrada, with these same eyes. Oh, wretched me! What is one now to believe, or whom believe? Our own, Eskinus, the very life of us all, in whom all our hopes and comforts were centered, who used to swear he could never live a single day without her, who used to say that he would place the infant on his father's knees,

and thus entreat that he might be allowed to make her his wife. Dear mistress, forbear weeping, and rather consider what, must be done for the future in this matter. Shall we submit to it, or shall we tell it to any person? Are you in your senses, my good man? Does this seem to your business to be made known to anyone? I, indeed, have no wish for it. In the first place, then, that his feelings are estranged from us,

the thing itself declares. Now, if we make this known, he'll deny it, I'm quite sure. your reputation and your daughter's character will then be in danger. On the other hand, if he were fully to confess it, as he is in love with another woman, it would not be to her advantage to be given to him. Therefore, under either circumstance, there is need of silence. Oh, by no means in the world. I'll not do it. What is it, you say?

I'll make it known. Oh, my dear Sostrada, take care what you do. The matter cannot possibly be in a worse position than it is at present. In the first place, she has no portion. Then, besides, that which was as good as a portion, her honor is lost. She cannot be given in marriage as a virgin. This resource is left. If he should deny it, I have a ring which he lost as evidence of the truth.

In fine, Geta, as I am fully. conscious that no blame attaches to me, and that neither interest nor any consideration unworthy of her or of myself has had a share in this matter, I will make trial. What am I to say to this? I agree, as you speak for the best. You be off as fast as possible, and relate all the matter just as it has happened to her kinsman, Hesio, for he was the best friend of our lamented simulus, and has shown a special regard for us. Geta aside. Ah, faith, because nobody else takes any notice of us. Do you, my dear Kansara, run with all haste, and fetch the midwife, so that when she is wanted, we may not have to wait for her.

Sostrata goes into the house and exit Geta and Kansara. Scene 3. Enter Demia. De Mia to himself. utterly undone. I hear that Ketesipho was with Aiskenus at the carrying off of this girl. This sorrow still remains for unhappy me. Should Askenus be able to seduce him, even him who promises so fair to a cause of debauchery? Where am I to inquire for him? I doubt he has been carried off to some bad house. That profly gets persuaded him, I'm quite sure.

But look, I see sight. coming this way. I shall now know from him where he is. But I faith he is one of the gang. If he perceives that I am looking for him, the rascal will never tell me. I'll not let him know what I want." Scene 4. Enter Cyrus at the other side of the stage. Cyrus to himself. We just now told the old gentleman the whole affair, just as it happened. I never did see anyone more delighted. Demia apart. Oh, Jupiter, the folly of the man. Cyrus, continuing.

He commended his son. To me, who put them upon this project, he gave thanks. Demia apart. I shall burst asunder. Cyrus, continuing. He told down the money instantly, and gave me half a miner besides to spend. That was later. out quite to my liking.

Demia apart. Very fine, if you would wish a thing to be nicely managed, entrusted to this fellow. Cyrus overhearing him. Ah, Demia, I didn't see you. How goes it? How should it go? I cannot enough wonder at your mode of living here. Why, really silly enough, and to speak without disguise,

altogether absurd. Calls at the door of Mius's house. Dromo, clean the rest of the fish. Let the largest congerial play a little in the water. When I come back, it shall be boned, not before. As profligacy like this? As for myself, it isn't to my taste,

and I often exclaim against it. Calls at the door. Stefano, take care that saltfish is well soaked. Yeah, gods, by our trust in you. Is he doing this for any purpose of his own, but does he think it creditable to ruin his son? A wretch that I am. Methinks, I already see the day when Askenas will be running away for want

to serve somewhere, rather, as a soldier. Oh, Damia, that is wisdom indeed. not only to look at a present moment, but also to look forward to what's to come. Well, is this music girl still with you? Why, yeah, she's indoors. How now, is he going to keep her at home? I believe so. Such is his madness. Is it possible?

An imprudent lenity in his father, and a vicious indulgence. Really, I am ashamed and grieved at my brother. Dimea, between you there is a great, I do not say it because you are here present, a too great difference. You are, every bit of you, nothing but wisdom. He a mere dreamer. Would you indeed have suffered that son of yours to act thus?

I, suffer him? Would I not have smelted out six months, months before he attempted it. Need I be told by you at your foresight? I pray he may only continue the same he is at present. Just as each person wishes his son to be, so he turns out. What news of him? Have you seen him today? What, your son?

Aside. I'll pack him off into the country. To de Mia. I fancy he's busy at the farm long before this. Are you quite sure he's there? What? When I saw him part of the way myself? Very good. I was afraid he might be loitering here. And extremely angry, too.

Why so? He attacked his brother in the forum with strong language about this music girl. Do you really say so? Oh dear. He didn't have all mince the matter. For just as the money was being counted, counted out, the gentleman came upon us by chance and began exclaiming, Oh, Ishinus, that you should perpetrate such enormities, that you should be guilty of action so disgraceful to our family. Oh, I shall weep for joy.

By this, you are not squandering your money only, but your reputation. May he be preserved to me. I trust he will be like his fourth. Father's. Weeping. Cyrus aside. Hey day. Cyrus, he is full of these maxims. Cyrus aside.

Strange indeed. He had the means of home of learning them. I do everything I can. I spare no pains. I train him up to it. In Finé, I bid him look into the lives of men as though into a mirror, and from others to take an example for himself. Do this, I say.

Quite right. Avoid that. Very shrewd. This is praiseworthy. That's the thing. That is considered blamable. Extremely good. And then, moreover,

Upon my honour, I have not the leisure to listen to you just at present. I have got some fish just to my taste, and I must take care that they are not spoiled. For that would be as much as a crime in me as for you, Demia, not to observe those maxims which you have just been mentioning. And so far as I can, I lay down precepts for my fellow servants on the very same plan. This is too salt, that is quite burned up, this is not washed enough, that is very well done,

remember and do so another time i carefully instruct them so far as i can to the best of my capacity in short demia i bid them look into their saucepans as though into a mirror and suggest to them what they ought to do I am sensible these things are trifling which we do, but what is one to do? According as a man is, so must you humor him. Do you wish anything else? That more wisdom may be granted you. You will be going off into the country, I suppose. Directly. But what should you do here, where, if you do give any good precepts, no one will regard them.

goes into Misiose Scene 5. D. Mia alone. I certainly will be off, as he on whose account I came hither has gone into the country. I have a care for him. That alone is my own concern,

since my brother will have it so, let him look to the other himself. But who is it I see yonder at the distance? Isn't it Hijo, or our tribe? If I see right, I faith it is he? A man I have been friendly with from a child. Good gods, we certainly have a great dearth of citizens of that stamp nowadays, with the old-fashioned virtue and honesty.

Not in a hurry will any misfortune accrue to the public from him. How glad I am to find some remnants of this race, even still remaining. Now, I feel some pleasure in living. I'll wait here for him, to ask how he is and have some conversation with him. Scene 6 Antahijio and Getta conversing at a distance O immortal gods

A disgraceful action, Geta What is it you tell me Such is the fact That show ignoble a deed should come from that family Oishinus assuredly you haven't taken after your father and that Demia apart Why surely he has heard this about the music girl

That gives him concern though a stranger, this father of his, thinks nothing of it. Ami, I wish he was somewhere close at hand over here of this. Unless they do as they ought to do, they shall not come off so easily. All our hopes, Hesio, are centered in you. You we have for our only friend. You are our protector, our father. The old man, simulis, when dying, recommended us to you.

If you forsake us, we are undone. Be aware how you mention that. I neither will do it, nor do I think that, with due regard to the ties of relationship I could. Dimea, apart. Alacost him. Approaches Hidio. Hidio, I bid you welcome, right heartily. Higio, starting.

Oh, you're the very man I was looking for. Greetings to you, Dimea. Why, what's the matter? An eldest son, Ashinus, whom you gave to your brother to adopt, has been acting the part of neither an honest man nor a gentleman. And what has he been doing? You knew my friend in years made similus. Why not? He has debauched his daughter, a virgin.

Ha! Stay, de Mia, you have not yet heard the worst. Is there anything still worse? Worse by far, for this indeed might in some measure have been born with. The hour of night prompted him. passion, wine, young blood, his human nature. When he was sensible of what he had done, he came voluntarily to the girl's mother, weeping, praying, entreating, pledging his honor,

vowing that he would take her home. The affair was pardoned, hussed up, his word taken. The girl from that intercourse became pregnant. This is the tenth month. He worthy fellow has provided himself, if it pleased the gods with a music girl to live with. The other he has cast off. Do you say this for certain?

The mother of the young woman is among us. The young woman, too. The fact speaks for itself. This getter besides, according to the common run of servants, not a bad one or vital habits. He supports them. Alone maintains the whole family. Take him, bind him, examine him upon the matter.

I, faith, put me to the torture, Damia, if such is not the fact. Besides, he will not deny it. Confront me with him. Dimea aside. I am ashamed. And what to do or how to answer him? I don't know. Pamphila, crying out within the house of Sostrata.

Ah, me, I am wracked with pains. Juno Lucina bring a hate, save me. I beseech thee. Hold. Is she in labor, pray? No doubt of it, Hed Gio. Ah, she is now. imploring your protection, Dimir. Let her obtain from you spontaneously what the power of the law

compels you to give. I do entreat the gods that would befit you may it once be done, but if you are sent tomit or otherwise, Dimea, I will defend both them and him who is dead to the utmost of my power. You wish my kinsmen, we were brought up together from children, we were companions in the wars, and at home, together we experienced the hardships of poverty. I will therefore exert myself, strive, use all methods, and finally lay down my life rather than forsake these women. What answer do you give me? I'll go find my brother, Hijo.

The advice he gives me upon this matter, I'll follow. But, dimmilla, take you care and reflect upon this. The more easier you are in your circumstances, the more powerful, wealthy, affluent, and noble you are. So much the more ought you with equineity to observe the dictates of justice. If you would have yourselves steamed as men of property. Go back now. Everything shall be done that is proper to be done.

It becomes you to act thus. Geta, show me into Sostrata. Follows Geta into Sostratas house. Demia to himself. Not without warning on my part of these things happened. I only wish it may end here, but this immoderate indulgence will, will undoubtedly lead to some great misfortune.

I'll go find my brother and vent these feelings upon him. Exit. Scene 7. Antahedio from Sostrata's house and speaking to her within. Be of good heart, Sustrada, and take care and console her as far as you can. I'll go find Mishio, if he set the form and acquaint him with the whole circumstances in their order. If it is so that he will do his duty by you, let him do so. But if his sentiments are otherwise about this matter, let him give me his answer that I may know it what's what I am to do. Exit

End of Act 3 Act 4 of Adelphi or the Brothers by Terrans, translated by Henry Thomas Riley. This is the Librevox recording. All Librevox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit Librevox.org. Act the Fourth Scene 1 And Dacetepo and Cyrus

From the House of Miceo My father gone into the country Say you Cyrus with a careless air Some time since Do tell me I beseech you He is at the farm

At this very moment I warrant Or did some work or other I really wish Provided it be done with no prejudice to his health I wish that he may so effectually tire himself that, for the next three days together, he may be unable to arise from his bed. So be it, and anything's still better than that, if possible.

Just so, for I do most confoundedly wish to pass this whole day in merrymaking as I have begun it, and for no reason do I detest that farm so heartily as for its being so near town. If it were at a greater distance, Knight would overtake him there before he could return hither again. Now, when he doesn't find me there, he'll come running back here, I'm quite sure. He'll be asking me where I have been, that I have not seen him all this day. What am I to say? Does nothing suggest itself to your mind? Nothing whatever.

So much the worse. Have you no client, friend, or guest? I have. What then? You have been engaged with them? When I have not been engaged? That can never do. It may. During the daytime, but if I pass the night here, what excuse can I make, Cyrus? Dear me, how much I do wish it was the custom for one to be engaged with friends at night as well.

But you be easy. I know his humour perfect. well. When he raves the most violently, I can make him as gentle as a lamb. In what way? He loves to hear you praised. I make a god of you to him and recount your virtues. What, mine? Yours. Immediately the tears fall from him as from a child for very joy. Ah, Take care. Why, what's the matter? The wolf in the fable. What? My father?

His own self. What shall we do, Cyrus? You only be off indoors. I'll see to that. If he makes any inquiries, you have seen me nowhere. Do you hear? Can you not be quiet? They retreat to the door of Miseo's house,

and Tessipo stands in the doorway. Scene 2. Enter DiMia on the other side of the stage. Dimea to himself. I certainly am an unfortunate man. In the first place I can find my brother nowhere, and then in the next place, while looking for him, I met a day laborer from the farm. He says that my son is not in the country.

And what to do, I know not. Ctesipo apart. Cyrus. Cyrus apart. What's the matter? Is he looking for me? Yes. Undone.

Nay, do be a good hour. Demia, to himself. Plague on it. What ill luck is this. I cannot really account for it, unless I suppose myself only born for the purpose of enduring misery. I am the first to feel our misfortunes, the first to know of them all, then the first to carry the news.

I am the only one, if anything does go wrong, to take it to heart. I am amused at him. He says that he is the first to know of everything, while he is the only one ignorant of everything. Demia, to himself, I've now come back, and I'll go see whether perchance my brother's yet returned. Cyrus, pray do take care that he doesn't suddenly rush in and upon his hair. Now will you hold your time? I'll take care.

Never this day will I depend on your management for that, upon my faith, for I'll shut myself up with her in some cupboard. That's the safest. Goes into the house. Do so. Still, I'll get rid of him. Demia, seeing Cyrus. But see, there's that rascal Cyrus.

Cyrus allowed, pretending not to see Demia. Really? Upon my faith, no person can stay here, if this is to be the case. For my part, I should like to know how many masters I have. What a curse condition this is. What's he whining about? What does he mean? How say you, good sir? Is my brother at home? What the plague do you talk about, good sir?

I'm quite distracted. What's the matter with you? Do you ask the question? Sessifo has been beating me, poor wretch, and that music girl, almost to death. Ha, what is it you tell me? Aye, see how he's cut my lip. Pretends to point to it. For what reason?

He says she was bought by my advice. Did not you tell me a short time since that you had seen him on his way into the country? I did, but he afterwards came back raving like a madman. He spared nobody. Or he not to have been ashamed to beat an old man? Him, whom only the other day I used to carry about in my arms when thus I... Showing. I commend him. Oktesipho, you take after your father.

Well, I do pronounce you a man. Commend him? Assuredly, He will keep his hands to himself in future if he's wise. T'was done with spirit. Very much so, to be beating a poor woman and me, a slave, who didn't dare strike him in return. A day. Very spirited indeed. He could not have done better. He thought the same as I did, that you were the principal in this affair.

But is my brother within. He is not. I'm thinking where to look for him. I know where he is, but I shall not tell you at present. Huh, what's that, you say? I do say so. Then I'll break your head for you this instant. I can't tell the person's name he's gone to, but I know the place where he lives.

Tell me the place, then. Do you know the portico down this way? Just by the shambles? pointing in the direction. How should I but know it? Go straight along, right up that street. When you come there, there is a descent right opposite that goes downward. Go straight down that. Afterward, on this side, extending one hand.

There is a chapel. Close by it is a narrow lane, where there is also a great wild fig tree. I know it. Go through that. But that lane is not a thoroughfare. he faith thus true dear dear would you take me to be in my senses i made a mistake return to the portico indeed that will be a much nearer way and there is less going round about you know the house of cratinos the rich man i know it when you have passed that keep straight along that street on the left hand when you come to the temple of diana turn to the right before you come to the seat to the right before you come to the seat city gate, just by that pond

there's a baker's shop, and opposite to it are joiners. There he is. What is he doing there? He has given some couches to be made with oak and legs for use in the oak mare. For you to carouse upon? Very fine.

But why do I delay go into him? Exit. Scene 3. Cyrus Alone Go by all means. I'll work you to you skeleton as you deserve. Aisianus loiters intolerably.

The breakfast's spoiling! And as for Sissive-ho, he's head and ears in love. I shall now think for myself, for I'll be off at once and pick out the very nicest bit and leisurely sipping my cups, I'll lengthen out the day. Goes into the house. scene four and amissio and higio i can see no reason here heggio that i should be so greatly commended i do my duty the wrong that has originated with us i redress

unless perhaps you thought me one of that class of men who think that an injury is purposely done them if you expostulate about anything they have done and yet are themselves the first to accuse because i have not acted thus do you return me thanks oh far from it i never led myself to believe you to be otherwise than you are but i beg monsieur that you will go with me to the mother of the young woman and repeat to her the same what you have told me Do you yourself tell the woman that this suspicion of a sheenice's fidelity was occurred on his brother's account, and that this music girl was for him? If you think I ought, or if there's a necessity for doing so, let us go. You act with kindness, for you both have relieved her mind who is now languishing in sorrow and affliction, and have discharged your duty. But if you think otherwise, I will tell her myself what you have been saying to me. Nay, I'll go as well.

You work with kindness. All who are in distress circumstances are suspicious. Do I know not what degree? They take everything too readily as an affront. They fancy themselves trifled with on account of their helpless condition. Therefore, it will be more satisfactory for you to justify him to them yourself. They go into the house of Sostrata. Scene 5.

And the Iskiness. I'm quite distracted in mind, for this misfortune is so unexpectedly to perform me that I neither know what to do with myself or how to act. My limbs are enfeebled through fear. My faculties bewildered with apprehension. No counsel is able to find a place within my breast. Alas!

How to extricate myself from this perplexity I know not. so strong a suspicion is taking possession of them about me not without some reason too sastrata believes that i have purchased this music girl for myself the old woman informed me of that for by accident when she was sent for the midwife i saw her and at once went up to her how is pamphila inquired is the delivery at hand is it for that she is sending for the midwife away away skinness cries she "'You have deceived us long enough. "' Already have your promise "'s disappointed us sufficiently. "'Ha!' said I. "'Pray what is the meaning of this.

"'Farewell, she cries. "'Keep to her who is your choice.' "'I instantly guessed what it was, they suspected, "'but still I checked myself "'that I might not be telling "'that gossip anything about my brother, "'whereby it might be divulged. "'Now what am I to do?

"'Should I say she is for my brother?' the thing that ought by no means to be repeated anywhere. However, let that pass. It is possible it might go no further. I'm afraid they would not believe it. So many probabilities concur against it. T'was I myself carried her off. It was I, my own self, that paid the money for her.

It was my own house she was carried to. This, I confess, has been entirely my own fault. Walled I not to have disclosed this affair, just as it happened to my father? I might have obtained his consent to marry her. I have been too negligent hitherto. Henceforth, then, arouse yourself, Iskinus. This, then, is the first thing, to go to them and clear myself.

I'll approach the door. Advances to the door of Sostratas house. Confusion. I always tremble most dreadfully when I go to knock at that door. Knocking and calling to them within. Oh, there! Ho there, it ischiness. Open the door immediately, someone.

The door opens. Some person, I know not who is coming out. I'll step aside here. He stands apart. Scene 6. And the Misio from the house of Sostrata. Misio, speaking at the door to Sostrata. Do as I told you, Sostrata.

I'll go find Icynos, that he may know how these matters have been settled. Looking around. But who was it knocking at the door? Iskines apart. Heavens, it is my father. I am undone. Iskinos! Iskinos, aside.

What can be his business here? Was it you knocking at this door? Aside. He is silent. Why shouldn't I rally him a little? It would be as well, as he was never willing to trust me with this secret. To Iskines. Don't you answer me?

It wasn't I knocked at that door that I know of. Just so, for I wondered what business you could have here. Apart. He blushes, all's well. Pray tell me, Father, what business have you there? Why, none of my own, but a certain friend of mine just now brought me hither from the forum to give him some assistance. Why? I'll tell you.

There are some women living here, an impoverished service. circumstances, as I suppose you don't know them, and, in fact, I'm quite sure, for it is not long since they removed to this place. Well, what next? There is a girl, living with her mother. Go on. This girl has lost her father. This friend of mine is her next of kin. The law obliges him to marry her.

Iskiness aside. Undone. What's the matter? Nothing. Very well. proceed. He has come to take her with him, for he lives at Militis. What? To take the girl away with him? Such is the fact.

All the way to Miletus, pray? Yes. Iskines, aside. I'm overwhelmed with grief. To miss you. But what of them? What do they say? What do you suppose they should?

Why, nothing at all. The mother has trumped up a tale, that there is a child by Some other man, I know not who, and she does not state the name. She says that he was the first, and that she ought not to be given to the other. Well, now, does not this seem just to you after all? No. Why not, pray, is the other to be carrying her away from here? Why should he not take her?

You have acted harshly and unfeelingly, and even, if father, I may speak my sentiments more plainly, and handsomely. Why so? Do you ask me? Pray, what do you think must be the state of mind of the man who was first connected with her, who to his misfortune may perhaps still love her to distraction, when he sees her torn away from before his face, and borne off from his sight forever? An unworthy action, father. On what grounds is it so? Who betrothed her? Who gave her away? When, and to whom was she married? Who was the author of all this? Why did he connect himself with a woman who belonged to another? Was it to be expected that a young woman of her age should sit at home, waiting until a kinsman of hers should come from a distance?

This, my father, you are to have represented and have insisted on it. Ridiculous! Was I to have pleaded against him, whom I was to support? But what's all this, Echinos, to us? What have we to do with them? Let us be gone. Uh, what's the matter? Why these tears? Iskiness weeping. Father, I beseech you. Listen to me. I, Kinos, I have heard and know it all, for I love you, and therefore everything you do is more a care to me.

So do I wish you to find me deserving of your love, as long as you live, my dear father, as I am sincerely sorry for the offense I have committed, and am ashamed to see you. upon my word i believe it for i know your ingenious disposition but i am afraid that you are too inconsiderate in what city pray do you suppose you live you have debauched a virgin whom it was not lawful for you to touch in the first place then that was a great offence great but still natural others and even men of worth have frequently done the same but after it happened pray did you should show any circumspection, or did you use any foresight as to what was to be done or how it was to be done? If you were ashamed to tell me of it, by what means was I to come to know it? While you were at a loss upon these points, ten months have been lost. So far indeed as lay in your power, you have periled both yourself and this poor girl, and the child. What did you imagine that the gods would set these

matters to rights for you while you were asleep, and that she would be brought home to your chamber without any exertions of your own? I would not have you to be equally negligent in other affairs. Be of good heart. You shall have her for your wife. Be of good heart, I tell you. Father, are you now jesting with me, pray? I, jesting with you? For what reason? I don't know, but so anxiously do I wish this to be true that I am the more afraid it may not be. Go home and pray to the gods that you may have your wife. Be off.

What? Have my wife now? Now. Now? Now, as soon as possible. May all the gods detest me, Father, if I do not love you better than even my very eyes. What? Better than her? Quite as well.

Very kind of you. Well, where is this Malesian? Departed, vanished, gone on board ship. But why do you delay? Father, do you rather go and pray to the gods, for I know for certain that they will rather be propitious to you as being a much better man than I am? I'll go indoors.

That what is requisite may be prepared. You do as I said if you are wise. goes into his house. Scene 7. Iskiness alone. What can be the meaning of this? Is this being a father or this being a son? If he had been a brother or familiar companion, how could he have been more complacent?

Is he not worthy to be beloved? Is he not to be imprinted in my very bosom? Well, then. The more does he impose an obligation on me by his kindness, to take due precaution not inconsiderately to do anything that he may not wish. But why do I delay going indoors this instant that I may not myself delay my own nuptials? Goes into the house of Missio. Scene 8. Antademia

I am quite tired with walking. May the great Jupiter confound you, Cyrus, together with your directions. I've crawled the whole sea. city over, to the gate, to the pond, where not. There was no joiners shot there. Not a soul could say he had seen my brother. But now, I'm determined to sit and wait at his house till returns. Scene nine and Amisio from his house. Misio speaking to the people within. I'll go and tell them. There's no delay on our part. But see, here's the very man. Oh, Mekio, I have been seeking you this long time.

Why? What's the matter? I'm bringing you some new and great enormities of that hopeful youth. Just look at that. Fresh ones of blackest die. There now, add it again. Ah, Mikio, you little know what sort of person he is. I do. Oh, Simpleton, you are dreaming that I'm not.

talking about the music girl. This crime is against a virgin and a citizen. I know it. So then, you know it and put up with it? Why not put up with it? Tell me, pray, don't you exclaim about it? Don't you go distracted? Not I. Certainly I'd rather. There's been a child born. May the gods be propitious to it. The girl has no fortune. So I have heard. And he? Must he marry her without one? Of course. What is to be done, then? Why? What the case itself points out? The young woman must be brought hither.

Oh, Jupiter, must that be the way, then? What can I do else? What can you do? If in reality this causes you no concern, to pretend it was surely the duty of a man. But I have already betrothed a young woman to him. The matter is settled. The marriage takes place today. I have removed all apprehensions. This is rather the duty of a man.

But does the affair please you, Mikio? If I were able to alter it, no. Now, as I cannot, I bear it with patience. The life of a man is just like playing with dice. If that which you most want to throw does not turn up. What turns up by chance, you must correct by art. Oh, rare corrector. Of course it is by your art that twenty minare have been thrown away for a music girl,

who, as soon as possible, must be got rid of at any price. And if not for money, why then for nothing? Not at all, and indeed I have no wish to sell her. What will you do with her, then? She shall be at my house. For heaven's sake, a courtesan and a matron in the same house? Why not? Do you imagine you are in your senses?

Really? I do think so. So may the gods prosper me. I now see your folly. I believe you are going to do so that you may have somebody to practice a music with. Why not? And the new-made bride to be learning to. Of course. Having hold of the rope, you will be dancing with them. Like enough, and you two along with us, if there's need.

Ah, me, are you not ashamed of this? Demia, do for once lay aside this anger of yours, and show yourself as you ought, at your son's wedding, cheerful and good-humored. I'll just step over to them, and return immediately. Goes into Sostratas house. Scene 10. Demia alone. Oh, Jupiter, here's a life. Here are manners. he has madness, a wife to be coming without a fortune, a music wench in the house, a house full of wastefulness, a young man ruined by extravagance, an older man in his dotage, should salvation herself desire it,

she certainly could not save this family. Exit End of Act 4 Act 5 of Adelphi Or the Brothers by Terrence Translated by Henry Thomas Riley This is the Librivox recording All Librivox recordings are in the public domain

For more information or to volunteer Please visit Librivox.org Act The 5th Scene 1 Enter Cyrus drunk And Demia on the opposite side of the stage Upon my faith

My dear little Cyrus you have taken delicate care of yourself and have done your duty with exquisite taste. Be off with you. But since I've had my feel of everything indoors, I have felt disposed to take a walk. Dimea apart. Just look at that.

There's an instance of their good training. Cyrus to himself. But see, here comes our old man. Addressing him. What's the matter? Why out of spirits? Oh, you rascal. Oh, now, are you spouting your sage maxim's ear? If you were my servant.

Why, you would be a rich man, de Mea, and improve your estate. I would take care that you should be an example to all the rest. For what reason? What have I done? Do you ask me, in the midst of this confusion, and during the greatest mischief, which is hardly yet set right? You have been getting drunk, you villain, as though things have been going on well. Cyrus, aside.

Really? I wish I ain't come out. Scene 2. Enter Dromo in haste from the house of Miesio. Hello, Cyrus. Stesopho desired you'll come back. Get you gone. Pushes him back into the house. What is it he says about Ketesifo? Nothing.

How now, you, hanged dog. Is Ketepo in the house? He is not. Then why does he mention him? It's another person. A little diminutive parasite. Don't you know him? I will know him before long. Going to the door.

Cyrus stopping him. What are you about? Where are you going? Demia struggling. Let me alone. Cyrus holding him. Don't I tell you. Won't you keep your hands off, whip scoundrel?

Would you like me to do? knock your brains out this instant. Rushes into the house. He's gone. No very pleasant boom companion upon my faith, particularly to Sisyvo. What am I to do now?

Why, even get into some corner till this tempest is lulled, and sleep off this drop of wine. That's more plan Goes into the house staggering Scene 3 And a Misio from the house of Sostrata Misio to Sostrata within

Everything's ready with us As I told you Sostrata When you like Who, I wonder, is making my door Fly open in such a fury Enter Dimea in haste from the house of Misio Now lass, what shall I do? How behave? In what terms explain or how make my complaint?

O heavens, oh earth, oh seas of Neptune. MISO apart. Here's for you. He has discovered all about the affair, and, of course, is now raving about it. A quarrel is the consequence. I must assist him, however. See, here comes the common corruptor of my children. Pray, moderate your passion and recover yourself. I have moderated it.

I am myself. I forbear all reproaches. Let us come to the point. Was this agreed upon between us? Proposed by yourself, in fact, that you were not to concern yourself about my son, nor I about yours. Answer me.

It is the fact. I don't deny it. Why is he now carous? at your house. Why are you harboring my son? Why do you purchase a mistress for him, Mikio? Is it at all fair that I should have any less justice from you than you from me? Since I do not concern myself about your son, don't you concern yourself about mine? You don't reason fairly. No? For surely it is a maxim of all that among themselves all things are common to friends. Smartly said, you've got that speech up for the occasion. Listen to a few words,

unless it is disagreeable, Demia. In the first place, if the extravagance your sons are guilty of, distresses you, pray to reason with yourself. You formally brought up the two suitably to your circumstances, thinking that your own property would have to suffice for them both, and, of course, you then thought that I should marry. Adhere to that same old rule of yours, save, scrape together, and be thrifty for them. Take care to leave them as much as possible and take that credit to yourself.

My fortune, which has come to them beyond their expectation, allow them to enjoy. Of your capital, there will be no diminution. What comes from this quarter, set it all down as so much gain. If you think proper and partially to consider these matters in your mind, Demia, you will save me and yourself, and them considerable uneasiness. I don't speak about the expense. The morals. Hold. I understand you. That point I was coming to.

There are in men, Demia, many signs from which a conjecture is easily formed, so that when two persons do the same thing, you may often say this one may be allowed to do it with impunity the other may not not that the thing itself is different but that he who does it i see signs in them so as to feel confident that they will turn out as we wish i see that they have good sense and understanding that they have modesty upon occasion and are affectionate to each other you may infer that their bent and disposition is of a pliant nature at any time you like you may reclaim them but still you may be apprehensive that they will be somewhat too apt to neglect their interests oh my dear de mia in all other things we grow wiser with age this sole vice does old age bring upon men we are all more solicitous about our own interests than we need be and in this respect age will make them sharp enough Only, take care, Miko, that these fine reasoning of yours and this easy disposition of yours do not ruin us in the end. Say no more, there's no danger of that. Now think no further of these matters.

Put yourself today in my hands. Smooth your brow. Why, as the occasion requires it, I must do so. But tomorrow I shall be off with my son into the country at daybreak. I, tonight for my share, only keep yourself in good humor for the day. I'll carry off that music girl along with me as well. You will gain your point. By that means you will keep your son fast.

Only take care to secure her. I'll see to that. And what with cooking and grinding, I'll take care she shall be well covered with ashes, smoke and meal. Besides all this, at the very midday, I'll set her gathering stubble. I'll make her as a burn and a... as black as a coal. You quite delight me. Now you seem to me to be wise, and for my part, I would then compel my son to go to bed with her,

even though he should be unwilling. Do you ban to me? Happy man, to have such a temper. I feel... Ah, at it again. I'll have done, then, at once. Go indoors, then, and let's devote this day to the object to which it belongs. Goes into the house.

Scene 4. De Mia alone. Never was there any person of ever such well-trained habits of life, but that experience, age, and custom are always bringing him something new or suggesting something. So much so that what you believe you know, you don't know, and what you have fancied of first importance to you, or making trial, you reject. And this is my case at present.

For the rigid life I have hitherto led, my race nearly run. I now renounce. Why so? I have found, by experience, that there is nothing better for a man than an easy temper and complacency. That this is the truth, it is easy for anyone to understand on comparing me with my brother. He has always spent his life in ease and gaiety, mild, gentle, offensive to no one, having a smile for all. He has lived for himself, and has spent his money for himself. All men speak well of him, all love him.

I, again, a rustic, a rigid, cross, self-denying, morose and thrifty person, married a wife, what misery I entailed in consequence. Sons were born a fresh care, and just look, while I have been studying to do as much as possible for them, I have worn out my life and years in saving. Now, in the decline of my days, the return I get from them for my pains is their dislike. He, on the other hand, without any trouble on his part, enjoys a father's comfort. They love him. Me, they shun. Him, they trust with all their secrets,

are fond of him, are always with him. I am forsaken. They wish him to live, but my death, forsooth, they are longing for. Thus, after bringing them up with all possible pains, at a trifling cost he has made them his own. Thus I bear all the misery.

He enjoys the pleasure. Well then, hands forward, let us try on the other hand, whether I can't speak kindly and act complacently as he challenges me to it. I also want myself to be loved and highly valued by my friends. If that is to be affected by giving and indulging, I will not be behind him. If our means fail, that least concerns me as I am the eldest. Scene 5. Enter Cyrus. Hark you, de Mea.

Your brother begs you will not go out of the way. Who is it? Oh, Cyrus, my friend. Save you. How are you? How goes it with you? Very well. Very good. Aside. I am now for the first time used these three expressions contrary to my nature. Oh, Cyrus, my friend, how are you? How goes it with you?

To Cyrus? You show yourself far from an unworthy servant, and I shall gladly do your service. I thank you. Yes, Cyrus, it is the truth, and you shall be convinced of it by experience before long. Scene 6. Enter Getta from the house of Sostrata. Geta to Sustrata within. Mistress, I'm going to see after them. that they may send for the damsel as soon as possible.

But see, here's DiMia. Acosting him. Save you. Oh, what's your name? Getta. Gita, I have this day come to the conclusion that you are a man of very great worth. For I look upon him as an undoubtedly good servant, who has a care for his master, as I have found to be your case, Gita. And for that reason, if any opportunity should offer, I would glad to be.

do your service. Aside. I am practicing the affable, and it succeeds very well. You are kind, sir, to think so. De Mia, aside. Getting on by degrees. I'll first make the lower classes my own. Scene seven.

Enter Iskiness from the house of Miseo. Iskiness to himself. They really are killing me, while too intent on performing the nuptials with all ceremony. The whole day. being wasted in their preparations. "'A, Skenas, how goes it?' "'Ah, my father. Are you here?'

"'Your father, indeed, both by affection and by nature, "'as I love you more than my very eyes. "'But why don't you send for your wife?' "'So I wish to do, "'but I am waiting for the musical and people to sing the nuptial song.' "'Come now, are you willing to listen to an old fellow, like me?' "'What is it?' "'Let those things alone.'

the nuptial song, the crowds, the torches, and the music girls, and order the stone wall in the garden here to be pulled down with all dispatch, and bring her over that way, make but one house of the two, bring the mother and all the domestics over to our house. With all my heart, kindest father. Di Mia, aside. Well done, now I am called kind. My brother's house will become a thoroughfare.

he will be bringing home a multitude in current expense in many ways. What matters it to me? I, as the kind of Maya, shall get into favor. Now then, bid that Babylonian pay down his twenty minet. To Cyrus. Cyrus, do you delay to go and do it? What am I to do? Pull down the wall.

And you, Gita, go and bring them across. May the gods bless you, De Mia, as I see you so sincere a well-wisher to our family. Getta and Cyrus go into Mius's house. I think they deserve it. What say you, Eskines, as to this plan? I quite agree to it. It is much more proper than that she, being sick and lying in, should be brought hither through the street. Why, my dear father, I never did see anything better contrived.

It's my way. But see, here's Mikio coming out. Scene 8 and Amicio from his house. Misio speaking to Geta within. Does my brother order it? Where is he? To DiMia. Is this your order, D'Mia?

Certainly I do order it. And in this matter, and in everything else, wish especially to make this family one with ourselves, to oblige, serve, and unite them. Father, pray let it be so. I do not oppose it. On the contrary, I faith, it is what we ought to do. In the first place, she is the mother of his wife.

Pointing to Iskiness. She is. What then? An honest and respectable woman. So they say. Advance in years. I am aware of it. Through her years, she is long past childbearing. There is no one to take.

care of her. She is a lone woman. Miso aside. What can be his meaning? It is right you should marry her, and that you, Esquenus, should use your endeavors to affect it. I marry her? Indeed? You. I? You, I say. You are trifling. Askinus, if you are a man, he'll do it. My dear father. What ass, do you attend to him? It is all in vain. It cannot be otherwise. You are mad. Do let me prevail on you, my father.

Are you out of your senses? Take yourself off. Come, do oblige your son. Are you quite in your right mind? Am I in my five-and-sixieth year to be marrying at last? A decrepit old woman, too. Do you advise me to do this? Do, I have promised it. Promised? Indeed. Be generous at your own cost, young man.

Come, what if he should ask us to give great a favor? As if this was not the greatest? Do comply. Don't make any difficulty. Do promise. Will you not have done? Not until I have prevailed upon you. Really? This is downright force. Act with heartiness, Mekio. Although this seems to me to be wrong, foolish, absurd, and repugnant to my mode of life.

Yet, if you so strongly wish it, be it so. You act obligingly. With reason I love you, but... What? I will tell you, when my wish has been complied with. What now? What remains to be done? Hidio here is their nearest relation. He has a connection of ours and poor.

We ought to do some good for him. Do what? There is a little farm here in the suburbs, which you let out. Let us give it him to live upon. But is it a little one? If it were a large one, still it ought to be done. He has been, as it were, a father to her. He is a worthy man, and connected with us.

It would be properly bestowed. In Feene, I now adopt that proverb which you, Miquio, a short time ago repeated with sense and wisdom. It is the common vice of all, in old age, to be too intent upon our own. interest. This stain we ought to avoid. It is a true maxim and ought to be observed indeed. What am I to say to this? Well then, as he desires it, pointing to Iskiness, it shall be given him. My father. Now, Mikio, you are indeed my brother, both in spirit and in body. I am glad of it. Demia aside.

Ah, foil him at his own weapon. Scene 9. Enter Cyrus from the house. It has been done as you ordered, the mayor. You are a worthy fellow. Upon my faith, in my opinion, at least, I think Cyrus ordered once to be made free. He? Three? For what reason? For many. Oh, my dear de Mayor.

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 everything I could. The thing is evident. And then, besides all this, to cater for them, secretly bring home a wench,

prepare a morning entertainment, these are the accomplishments of no ordinary person. Oh, what a delightful man. Last of all, he assisted today 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 Iskiness. Desires it to be so. Miso to Iskiness. Do you desire this to be done? I do wish it. Why, then? If you desire it, just come hither. Cyrus to me.

Performing the ceremony of Manumission. Uh, be a free man. You act generously. I return my thanks to you all. And to you, de Meier, in particular. I congratulate you. And I... I believe you.

I wish that this joy were made complete, that I could see my wife Fridja free as well. Really, a most excellent woman. And the first... to suckle your grandchild, his son, today. Pointing to Iskines. Why really? In seriousness, if she was the first to do so, there is no doubt she ought to be made free. What? For doing that?

For doing that, Infine, receive the amount from me at which she is valued. May all the gods always grant you, Demeia, all you. all you desire. Cyrus, you have thrived pretty well today. If, in addition, Miko, you will do your duty, and lend him a little ready money in hand for present use. He will soon repay you. Less than this.

Snapping his fingers. He is a deserving fellow. Upon my word, I will repay it. Only lend it. To me? To father. I'll consider of it afterward. He'll do it, Cyrus.

Oh, most worthy man. Oh, most kind-hearted father. How is this? What has so suddenly changed your disposition to Mia? What caprice is this? What means this sudden liberality? I will tell you that I may convince you of this. Miko, that the fact that they consider you an easy and kind-hearted man does not proceed from your

real life, nor, indeed, from a regard for virtue and justice, but from your humoring, indulging, and pampering them. Now, therefore, Eskinis, if my mode of life has been displeasing to you, because I do not quite humor you in everything, just or unjust, I have done. squander. By, do what you please. But if you would rather have one to reprove and correct those faults, the results of which, by reason of your youth, you cannot see, which you pursue too ardently and are thoughtless upon, and in due season to direct you, behold me, ready to do it for you. Father, we leave it to you. You best know what are to be done. But what is to be done about my brother? i consent let him have his mistress with her let him make an end of his follies that's right to the audience grant us you're a p a p a end of act five end of adelphi or the brothers by terence