Cistellaria, or The Casket (78-93b)

That is more suitable to a married woman, my dear Silenium, to love but one, and with him to pass her life, to whom she has once been married;

but, indeed, a Courtesan is most like a flourishing city; she cannot alone increase her fortunes without a multitude of men.

I want you to give heed to this matter; the thing on account of which you have been sent for to me, I’ll disclose. Now, my mother, because I don’t wish myself to be called a Courtesan, complied with my desire; in that matter she indulged myself who have been obedient to her;

to allow me to live with him alone whom I so ardently loved.

I’ faith, she acted foolishly. But look, have you ever kept company with any man?

With no one, indeed, except Alcesimarchus; nor has any other person whatever committed an infringement on my chastity.

Prithee, by what means did this man gain your good graces?

At the festival of Bacchus

my mother took me to see the procession. While I was returning home, from a secret look-out he secretly traced me even to the door; after that, he insinuated himself into the friendship of my mother and myself as well, by endearments, presents, and gifts.

I should like a man of that sort to be offered me. How I’d work him.