Kitap 9
2
He did indeed say a lot to that effect; but the main point was his news of great wealth, of gold, raiment, servants and ivory. He told me that the money they were bringing in silver wasn’t counted but measured by the bushel—and there were many bushels. Parmeno himself had on his little finger an enormous ring with many sides, which had set in it a jewel of three colours, the top layer being red. Well, I left him trying to tell me how they’d crossed the Halys, and killed someone called Tiridates, and how Polemo had distinguished himself in the battle with the Pisidians. I went running off to bring you this news, so that you can think what to do in the circumstances. If Polemo comes, as he certainly will, once he’s rid of his acquaintances, and starts asking questions, and finds Philostratus in the house with us, what do you think he’ll do?
3
We must find some escape from this situation. It wouldn’t be right for me to send Philostratus away, when he gave me a talent only the other day, and is, besides, a merchant, and promises me so much, nor yet would it be sensible for me to shut Polemo out, when he’s returned in such splendour. Besides, he’s so jealous, I could hardly put up with him even when he was poor. What do you think he’ll stop at now?
3
He’s coming.
3
I’m faint and helpless with panic.
3
Philostratus is coming too.
3
What’s to become of me? I wish the ground would swallow me up.
4
Why don’t we have a drink, Pannychis?
4
You’ve ruined me, fellow. Good day to you, Polemo. It’s a long time since I’ve seen you.
4
Who is this who’s being so familiar with you? Can’t you speak? Very well, Pannychis, go your own way. And here I’ve been rushing in haste from Thermopylae for five days, all for a woman like you! But it serves me right, though I’m grateful to think that henceforth I’ll be free from your plundering.
4
Who are you, my good man?
