Page:Plautus and Terence.djvu/139

Rh and often, consciously or unconsciously, imitated. Addison, in the 'Spectator,' calls them "inimitably beautiful:"—

Gnatho is deputed by his magnificent friend to conduct the young slave girl to Thais's house. On the way he is met by Parmeno: and even that unimpressible old servitor is struck by the girl's wondrous beauty. The scene between the two officials of the rival powers is very good.

Gnatho (to himself as Parmeno comes up). I'll have a

little sport, now, with this knave.

(Aloud, making a low bow.) My excellent Parmeno, is it you?

Your most obedient.—How d'ye find yourself?

Parmeno (coolly). I hadn't lost myself.

Gna. You never do.

Nothing unpleasant in this quarter—eh?

Par. There's you.

Gna. That I can fancy. Nothing else?