DEM. Confusion! I have heard that Ctesipho Was present with his brother at this riot. This is the sum of all my miseries, If he, even he, a sober, hopeful lad, May be seduc'd into debaucheries. --But where shall I inquire for him? I warrant They have decoy'd him into some vile brothel. That profligate persuaded him, I'm sure. --But here comes Syrus; he can tell me all. And yet this slave is of the gang; and if He once perceives that I'm inquiring for him, He'll never tell me any thing; a rogue! I'll not discover my design. [Changes: _Harper_ [end of speech, from line --But here comes Syrus ...] _Colman 1768_ --But here comes Syrus.--I shall know from him What is become of Ctesipho.--And yet This rascal's of the gang; and if he once Perceives that I'm enquiring after him, He'll never tell, a villain!--I'll take care To cover my design.] SCENE IV. _Enter SYRUS at another part of the stage._ SYRUS (_to himself_). We've just Disclos'd the whole of this affair to Micio, Exactly as it happen'd. I ne'er saw The good old gentleman more pleas'd. DEM. Oh Heav'n, The folly of the man! (_Listening._) SYRUS (_to himself_). He prais'd his son; Me, who concerted the whole scheme, he thank'd. DEM. I burst with rage. (_Listening._) SYRUS (_to himself_). He told the money down Immediately, and threw us in beside, To make an entertainment, a half-mina: Which I've laid out according to my liking. DEM. So! if you'd have your business well ta'en care of, Commit it to this fellow! SYRUS (_overhearing_). Who's there? Demea! I did not see you, Sir. How goes it? DEM. How? I can't sufficiently admire your conduct. SYRUS (_negligently_). Silly enough, to say the truth, and idle. (_To servants within_). Cleanse you the rest of those fish, Dromo: let That large eel play a little in the water. When I return it shall be bon'd; till then It must not be. DEM. Are crimes like these---- SYRUS (_to DEMEA_). Indeed I like them not, and oft cry shame upon them. --(_To servants within._) See that those salt fish are well soak'd, Stephanio. DEM. Gods! is this done on purpose? Does he think 'Tis laudable to spoil his son? Alas! I think I see the day when AEschinus Shall fly for want, and list himself a soldier. SYRUS. O Demea! that is to be wise: to see, Not that alone which lies before your feet, But ev'n to pry into futurity. DEM. What! is the Music-Girl at your house? SYRUS. Aye, Madam's within. DEM. What! and is AEschinus To keep her at home with him? SYRUS. I believe so; Such is their madness. DEM. Is it possible? SYRUS. A fond and foolish father! DEM. I'm asham'd To own my brother; I'm griev'd for him. SYRUS. Ah! There is a deal of diff'rence, Demea, --Nor is't because you're present that I say this---- There is a mighty difference between you! You are, from top to toe, all over wisdom: He a mere dotard.--Would you e'er permit Your boy to do such things?