CLE. To separate from me so rudely as this, you villain!

MERC. It is a fine subject to make a fuss about! We have still
plenty of time to live together!

CLE. But to go in such a churlish manner, without saying a single
kind word to cheer me!

MERC. Where the deuce shall I dig up silly compliments? Fifteen
years of married life exhaust nonsense; we said all we had to say to
each other a long time ago.

CLE. Look at Amphitryon, you rascal; see how his ardour burns for
Alcmene; and then blush for the little passion that you show your wife.

MERC. But, gracious me! Cleanthis, they are still lovers. There
comes a certain age when all this passes away; what suits them well
in these early days would look ridiculous in us, old married people.
It would be it fine sight to see us embracing each other, and saying
sweet nothings!

CLE. Oh! You perfidious wretch, must I give up hope that a heart sighs for me?

MERC. No, I should be sorry to say that; but I have too long a beard
to dare to sigh; I should make you die of laughter.

CLE. You brute, do you deserve the good fortune of having a virtuous
woman for your wife?

MERC. Good Heavens! You are but too virtuous; this fine virtue is