Book 8
58
And in the same poet, in his Spit-bearers, there is a very witty young man who disparages everything connected with the purchase of fish. And he speaks thus— A. But while you buy, don't disregard economy, For anything will do. B. Just tell me how. A. Don't be expensive, though not mean or stingy; Whatever you may buy will be enough; Some squids and cuttle-fish; and should there be Some lobsters in the market, let's have one— Some eels will look nice too upon the table— Especially if from the Theban lake: Then let us have a cock, a tender pigeon, A partridge, and a few such other things; And if a hare should offer, then secure it. B. Why how precise you are in your directions! A. I'd need be, you are so extravagant; And we are certain to have meat enough. B. Has anybody sent you any present? A. No, but my wife has sacrificed the calf Which from Corone came, and we to-morrow Shall surely sup on it. And in Mnesimachus, the Morose Man, in the play of the same name, being a great miser, says to the extravagant young man in the play— A. I do entreat you, do not lecture me So very fiercely; do not say so much About the money; recollect I'm your uncle; Be moderate, I beg. B. How can I be More moderate than I am? A. At least be briefer, And don't deceive me; use diminutives; For fish say fishlings; if you want aught more, Speak of your bits of dishes; and at least I shall be ruin'd with a better grace.
