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861
(Enter JUPITER.)
JUPITER
I am that Amphitryon, whose servant Sosia is the same that becomes Mercury when there is occasion—I, who dwell in the highest story
1
, who sometimes, when it pleases me, become Jupiter.
But, hither soon as ever I turn my steps, I become Amphitryon that moment, and I change my garb. Now hither am I come for the sake of a compliment to you, that I may not leave this Comedy incomplete. I’ve come as well to bring assistance to Alcmena, whom, guiltless woman, her husband
865
Amphitryon is accusing of dishonor. For what I myself have brought about, if that undeservedly should fall as an injury upon her in her innocence, it would be my blame. Now, as I have already begun, I’ll again pretend that I am Amphitryon,
870
and this day will I introduce extreme confusion into this household. Then afterwards, at last, I’ll cause the matter to be disclosed, and to Alcmena timely aid will I bring, and will cause that at one birth she shall bring forth, without pangs
2
, both the child with which she is pregnant by her husband and that with which she is pregnant by myself.
875
I have ordered Mercury forthwith to follow me, if I should wish to give him any commands. Now will I accost her.
880
(He stands apart.)
I am that Amphitryon, whose servant Sosia is the same that becomes Mercury when there is occasion—I, who dwell in the highest story
1
, who sometimes, when it pleases me, become Jupiter.
But, hither soon as ever I turn my steps, I become Amphitryon that moment, and I change my garb. Now hither am I come for the sake of a compliment to you, that I may not leave this Comedy incomplete. I’ve come as well to bring assistance to Alcmena, whom, guiltless woman, her husband
865
Amphitryon is accusing of dishonor. For what I myself have brought about, if that undeservedly should fall as an injury upon her in her innocence, it would be my blame. Now, as I have already begun, I’ll again pretend that I am Amphitryon,
870
and this day will I introduce extreme confusion into this household. Then afterwards, at last, I’ll cause the matter to be disclosed, and to Alcmena timely aid will I bring, and will cause that at one birth she shall bring forth, without pangs
2
, both the child with which she is pregnant by her husband and that with which she is pregnant by myself.
875
I have ordered Mercury forthwith to follow me, if I should wish to give him any commands. Now will I accost her.
880
Amphitruo. Plautus. Henry Thomas Riley (Translator). London. 1913.
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