Page:Plautus and Terence.djvu/69

Rh to Molière of the French comic dramatists, founded his play, in one act, of 'Le Rétour Imprévu;' and Fielding's 'Intriguing Chambermaid' is little more than a translation of it. But Dunlop remarks that neither the French nor the English adapters have availed themselves of the hint which Plautus left for them, of a telling scene in which the previous occupant of the "Haunted House" might be charged by the excited father with the murder of his imaginary guest.

This is a play of a different character in many respects, and comes nearer to what we should call a melodramatic spectacle than anything else. The Latin title is simply "The Rope"—given to it because the rope of a fisherman's net is an important instrument in the dénouement. But the whole action turns upon a shipwreck, and this is the title preferred by some English authorities.

The prologue, which is in a higher strain than Plautus commonly aspires to, is spoken in the character of Arcturus,—the constellation whose rising and setting was supposed to have very much to do with storms. The costume in which he appears is evidently brilliant and characteristic.

Of his high realm, who rules the earth and sea

And all mankind, a citizen am I.

Lo, as you see, a bright and shining star,

Revolving ever in unfailing course

Here and in heaven: Arcturus am I hight.

By night I shine in heaven, amidst the gods;