Aulularia, or The Concealed Treasure (831b-834f)

’twas in that way I was speaking.

But do you know what?—

Even kill me outright, i’ faith, you never shall get it hence of me ⋯

— the pot belonging to the old fellow, which I’ve not got.

I will have it, whether you will or no; when I’ve tied you up all fours, and torn asunder your body for you tied up to the beam. But why do I delay to rush upon the jaws of this rascal, and why this instant do I not compel his soul to take its journey before its time[*]? Are you going to give it me or not?

I will give it you.

I want you to give it me now, and not at a future time.

I’ll give it now; but I entreat you to allow me to recover breath. (LYCONIDES lets him go.) Aha! What is it you want me to give you, master?

Don’t you know, you rascal? And do you dare to refuse me the four pound pot full of gold which you just now said you had stolen? (Calling at the door.) Hallo there! Where now are the flogging men?