MERC.Stop, or the shortest step brings down upon your back clattering evidence of my just anger.All you have just said is mine, except the blows.It is I, whom Amphitryon sent to Alcmene;who has just arrived from the Persian port; I, who have come to announce the valour of his arm, which has gained us a glorious victory, and slain the chief of our enemies.In short, I am undoubtedly Sosie, son of Dave, an honest shepherd; brother of Arpage, who died in a foreign land; husband of Cleanthis the prude, whose temper drives me wild; I, who received a thousand cuts from a whip at Thebes, without ever saying anything about it; and who was once publicly branded on the back for being too worthy a man.
SOS.He is right.If he were not Sosie, he could not know all he says; all this is so astounding that even I begin to believe him a little.In fact, now I look at him, I see he has my figure, looks, and manners.I wilt ask him some question, in order to clear up this mystery.What did Amphitryon obtain as his share of all the plunder taken from our enemies?
MERC.Five fine large diamonds, beautifully set in a cluster, which their chief wore as a rare piece of handicraft.
SOS.For whom does he intend so rich a present?
MERC.For his wife; he intends her to wear it.
SOS.Where have you put it, until you meet her?
MERC.In a casket sealed with the arms of my master.