Page:Comedies of Aristophanes (Hickie 1853) vol1.djvu/206

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for I perceived him contriving. I have a mind to go in and bring out the ass, that the old man may not even peep out again. [Goes in and returns leading the ass.] Ass, why do you weep? because you are to be sold to-day? Walk quicker. Why do you groan, if you are not carrying any Ulysses?

. But, by Jove, he is carrying some one here below, who has crept under him.

. Of what sort? Let me see.

. This here. [Points to Philocleon, who is hidden under the ass's belly.]

. What is this? Pray, who in the world are you, fellow?

. Nobody, by Jove.

. You Nobody? Of what country?

. Of Ithaca; son of Runaway.

. In no respect, by Jove, shall you go off with impunity, you Nobody! Draw him quickly from beneath. O most abominable! See where he's crept to! so that he seems to me most like the foal of a summons-witness. [Xanthias and Sosias drag him from under the ass.]

. If you won't let me alone, we will do battle.

. About what, pray, will you fight with us?

. About the shade of an ass.

. You are a knave far advanced in artifice, and reckless.

. I a knave? No, by Jove. You are not now aware that I am most excellent. But you will know it, perhaps, when you eat the paunch of an old Heliast.