the gods prognosticate future events by the liver of an ox; those merciless reasoners, who find fault with priests for sacrificing young girls, or passing a night with them on occasion. These you see, Drixa, are a kind of people not fit to live. As to Socrates, I should have been glad to have him strangled long ago. However, I have agreed to meet him here in the portico, and talk with him about the marriage.
DRIXA.
Here he comes: you do him too much honor: but I must leave you, and talk to Xantippe about my young man.
ANITUS.
The gods conduct you, my dear Drixa; remember to serve them, and don't forget my two fine Persian carpets.
SCENE III.
ANITUS, SOCRATES.
ANITUS.
Good morning, my dear Socrates, thou favorite of the gods, and wisest of men; methinks every time I see you I am raised above myself; in you I look up with admiration to the dignity of human nature.
SOCRATES.
O my lord, I am a plain simple man, as void of knowledge, and as full of weakness, as any of my fellow-creatures: it is enough for me if you can bear with me.
