Do you
then follow me this way. (_Aside._) The things that I desire _to
know_, I'll enquire of him. (_Addressing_ TYNDARUS.)
Philocrates, this person has done as it becomes an honest man to do. For
from him I've learnt of what family you are sprang; he has confessed it
to me. If you are willing to own these same things (which, however,
understand that I _already_ know from him), you will be doing it
for your own advantage.
TYND. He did his duty when he confessed the truth to you, although,
Hegio, I wished carefully to conceal both my rank and my wealth; now,
inasmuch as I've lost my country and my liberty, I don't think it right
for him to be dreading me rather than you. The might of warfare has made
my fortunes on a level with himself. I remember _the time_ when he
didn't dare _to do it_ in word; now, in deed, he is at liberty to
offend me. But don't you see? Human fortune moulds and fashions just, as
she wills. Myself, who was a free man she has made a slave, from the
very highest the very lowest. I, who was accustomed to command, now obey
the mandates of another. And indeed, if I meet with a master just such
as I proved the ruler in my own household, I shall not fear that he will
rule me harshly or severely. With this, Hegio, I wished you to be
acquainted, unless perchance you yourself wish it not.
HEG. Speak boldly _out_. TYND. As free a man was I till lately as
your son.
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