Book 6
30
But the ancient poets called parasites flatterers; from whom also Eupolis gave this title to his play, where he represents a chorus of flatterers speaking thus— But we will tell you now The mode of life adopted By the whole flattering band, And listen ye, and learn How well-bred we all are. For first of all a boy, Another person's slave, Attends us; and we are Content with very little. I have two well-made garments, And always have one on; I hie me to the forum, And when I see a man, A foolish man but rich, I make my way to him, And if he says a word I praise his wit and laugh, Delighted at his jests. And then we go to supper, My friends and I, pursuing Each different game so long As we can save our money. And then the parasite Must show his wit and manners, Or out of doors be turned. And one there was, Acestor, A branded slave, if I Am bound to tell the truth, And he was treated so. For not one single joke Did he ope his lips to utter, And so the slaves expell'd And pilloried the knave, And gave him up to Œneus.
