ANA. I observe one thing, that Clitidas would have nothing to say if he did not speak of me. CLI. It is because there are so many things that can be said of you that one can never say too much. ANA. You might choose some other subject of conversation, particularly since I have asked you to do so. CLI. How can I? Do you not say that destiny is stronger than everything? And if it is written in the stars that I shall speak of you, how can I resist my fate? ANA. With all the respect due to you, Madam, allow me to say that there is one thing in your court which it is sad to find there. It is that everybody takes the liberty of talking, and that the most honourable man is exposed to the scoffing of the first buffoon he meets. CLI. I thank you for the honour you do me. ARI. (_to_ ANAXARCHUS). Why be put out by what he says? CLI. With all due respect to you, Madam, there is one thing which amazes me in astrology; it is that people who know the secrets of the gods, and who have such knowledge as to place themselves above all other men, should have need of paying court and of asking for anything. ANA. This is a paltry joke, and you should earn your money by giving your mistress wittier and better ones. CLI. Upon my word, I give what I have. You speak most comfortably about it; the trade of a buffoon is not like that of an astrologer. To tell lies well and to joke well are things altogether different, and it is far easier to deceive people than to make them laugh. ARI. Ha! what is the meaning of that? CLI. (_speaking to himself_). Peace, fool that you are! Do you not know that astrology is an affair of state, and that you must not play upon that string? I have often told you that you are getting a great deal too bold, and that you take certain liberties which will bring trouble upon you. You will see that some day you will be kicked out like a knave. Hold your peace if you be wise. ARI. Where is my daughter? TIM. She is gone away, Madam. I offered her my arm, which she refused to accept. ARI. Princes, since in your love for Eriphyle you have consented to submit to the laws I had imposed upon you, since it has been possible for me to obtain that you should be rivals without being enemies, and that, with a full submission to my daughter's feelings, you are waiting for her choice, speak to me openly and tell me what progress you each think you have made on her heart.