Book 13
5
Chenidas Well, Leontichus, you frightened the simple little thing with your nodding plumes and your incredible exploits. I saw her getting pale as far back as the officer story; her face was all puckered up and quivering when you split his head.
5
Leontichus I thought it would make me more attractive. Well, but it was your fault too; you started the duel.
5
Chenidas Well, I had to chime in when I saw what you were bragging for. But you laid it on so thick. Pass the cutting off the wretched Paphlagonian’s head, what did you want to spike it on a spear for, and let the blood run down on you?
6
Leontichus That was a bit too strong, I admit; the rest was rather well put together. Well, go and persuade her to come back.
6
Chenidas Shall I tell her you lied to make her think you a fine fellow?
6
Leontichus Oh, plague upon it!
6
Chenidas It’s the only way. Choose—a mighty champion, and loathed, or a confessed liar, and—Hymnis?
6
Leontichus Bad is the best; but I say Hymnis. Go to her, then, Chenidas, and say I lied—in parts,
