A Baker's Wife enters with an empty basket; she brings Chaerephon with her as witness.
Baker's Wife
to Chaerephon
Come to my help, I beg you, in the name of the gods! This cursed man,
[1390]
when striking out right and left with his torch, knocked over ten loaves worth an obolus apiece, and then, to cap the deal, four others.
Bdelycleon
Do you see what lawsuits you are drawing upon yourself with your drunkenness? You will have to plead.
Philocleon
Oh, no, no! a little pretty talk and pleasant tales will soon settle the matter
[1395]
and reconcile her with me.
Baker's Wife
Not so, by the goddesses twain! It shall not be said that you have with impunity spoilt the wares of Myrtia, the daughter of Ancylion and Sostrates.
Philocleon
Listen, woman, I wish
[1400]
to tell you a lovely anecdote.
Baker's Wife
By Zeus, no anecdotes for me, thank you.
Philocleon
One night Aesop was going out to supper. A drunken bitch had the impudence to bark near him. Aesop said to her, "Oh, bitch, bitch!
[1405]
you would do well to sell your wicked tongue and buy some wheat."
Baker's Wife
You make a mock of me! Very well! I don't care who you are, I shall summons you before the market inspectors for damage done to my business. Chaerephon here shall be my witness.
Philocleon
But just listen, here's another will perhaps please you better.
[1410]
Lasus and Simonides were contesting against each other for the singing prize. Lasus said, "Damned if I care."
Baker's Wife
Ah! really, did he now!
Philocleon
As for you, Chaerephon, can you be witness to this woman, who looks as pale and tragic as Ino when she throws herself from her rock ... at the feet of Euripides?
The Baker's Wife and Chaerephon depart.
Bdelycleon
[1415]
Here, I suppose, comes another to summons you; he has his witness too. Ah! unhappy indeed we are!