_Chr._ Should I? Then just attend. I wish to help my neighbour. If all were ready to lend their neighbours a helping hand, We should not hear the complaints we do against ill fortune. I am always ready myself; am now: in point of fact I have promised to do what I can: but since, before I act, 299 Or even judge, I am willing to know all sides of a case, ’Tis part of my duty to see this girl. Could you procure That I should speak with her? _Pam._ (_aside_). This is the very thing we want. If now I could get him to ask Antiphila here to-day, Clinia of course would come: I’ll try and work it. _Chr._ Well? Answer me. Could you do this? _Pam._ Yes, father. _Chr._ When? _Pam._ To-day. _Chr._ I did not mean to-day. _Pam._ There’s no time like the present. _Chr._ For inconvenience? _Pam._ No; for opportunity. _Chr._ How so? _Pam._ Invite her here to spend the feast with us, And bring a friend. _Chr._ But would she come? _Pam._ Yes, she would come. _Chr._ Whom have you asked besides? _Pam._ Only Philolaches. _Chr._ It happens, Pamphilus, we are short of guests; I find 311 My old friend Phanias has gone from home to-day. Archonides’ wife is ill; they cannot come: and now Just the last thing Daniel has disappointed me. The two young ladies would help us out: besides I am sure ’Twould please your mother to ask them. _Pam._ I cannot agree with you there. _Chr._ Allow me to judge of that; and since you said you were able To bring them—bring them. _Pam._ Oh, if you wish it, I’m ready enough; I’ll see they come: but I had forgotten; there is one more Besides Philolaches. _Chr._ Who then? I beg you’ll bring 320 None of your Clinias here. _Pam._ He that is with me now. _Chr._ He is it? That’s quite another thing: A gentleman At first sight, Pamphilus; I wish that all your friends Were such as he. By all means bring him. Present him now. His name? _Pam._ Clitipho. _Chr._ (_aside_). I like his appearance much: When I came up he went respectfully aside— Excellent manners. (_To Clin._) Ha, good Clitipho, how d’ye do? ’Tis time that we were acquainted. I understand my son Has invited you to our house. There’s not much I can offer, 329 But _My little pot is soon hot_. I am very glad And proud to have you my guest. _Clin._ I thank you, sir; I am sorry— _Chr._ No thanks, I pray. At present excuse me; for I must go And prepare my wife to receive her guests. You’re sure they’ll come?