Scene IV

Enter Ctesipho at another part of the stage.

Ctes. Favors are welcome in the hour of need

From any hand; but doubly welcome when

Conferr’d by those from whom we most expect them.

O brother, brother, how shall I applaud thee?

Ne’er can I rise to such a height of praise

But your deservings will outtop me still:

For in this point I am supremely bless’d,

That none can boast so excellent a brother,

So rich in all good qualities, as I.

Syrus (coming forward). O Ctesipho!

Ctes. (turning round). O Syrus! where’s my brother?

Syrus. At home, where he expects you.

Ctes. Ha! (Joyfully.)

Syrus. What now!

Ctes. What now?—By his assistance I live, Syrus.

Ah, he’s a friend indeed! who disregarding

All his own interests for my advantage,

The scandal, infamy, intrigue, and blame,

All due to me, has drawn upon himself!

What could exceed it?—But who’s there?—The door

Creaks on the hinges. (Offering to go off.)

Syrus. Hold! ’tis Æschinus.