Kitap 8
4.19
In knowing what sort of match would suit each one of you.Tell me, then, for heaven’s sake, said Chrysantas, what sort of wife you think would suit me best.
4.20
In the first place, said he, she must be small; for you are small yourself; and if you marry a tall woman and wish to kiss her when she is standing up straight, you will have to jump for it, like a puppy.You are quite right in that provision for me, said he; and I should never get my kiss, for I am no jumper at all.
4.21
And in the next place, Cyrus went on, a snub-nosed woman would suit you admirably. Why so? Because, was the answer, your own nose is so hooked; and hookedness, I assure you, would be the very proper mate for snubbiness. Do you mean to say also, said the other, that a supperless wife would suit one who has had a good dinner, like me now? Aye, by Zeus, answered Cyrus; for the stomach of one who has eaten heartily bows out, but that of one who has not eaten bows in.
4.22
Then, in heaven’s name, said Chrysantas,Cyrus’s frigid jokes could you tell us what sort of wife would suit a frigid king?On the principle of opposites just described, the man who is ψυχρός frigid, cold-blooded should have a wife who is θερμή. In 23 ψυχρός is used in another sense—frigid or dull in his humour. At this, of course, Cyrus burst out laughing, as did also all the rest.
4.23
I envy you for that, Cyrus, said Hystaspas while they were still laughing, more than for anything else in your kingdom.Envy me for what? asked Cyrus. Why, that, frigid as you are, you can still make us laugh.Well said Cyrus, and would you not give a great deal to have made these jokes and to have them reported to the lady with whom you wish to have the reputation of being a witty fellow? Thus, then, these pleasantries were exchanged.
