For the present, however, I withhold it, and will abide by
what the rest shall say."
His wife Parlamente, thinking he referred to her, began to blush, and,
half in anger and half laughing, replied--
"Perhaps, Hircan, she who you think would find it most dull might
readily find means of compensation had she a mind for it. But let us
leave aside a pastime in which only two can share, and speak of one that
shall be common to all."
"Since my wife has understood the meaning of my words so well," said
Hircan to all the ladies, "and a private pastime is not to her liking, I
think she will be better able than any one else to name one that all
may enjoy; and I herewith give in to her opinion, having no other of my
own."
To this all the company agreed.
Parlamente, perceiving that it had fallen to her to decide, spoke as
follows--
"Did I find myself as capable as the ancients who invented the arts, I
should devise some sport or pastime in fulfilment of the charge you
lay upon me. But knowing as I do my knowledge and capacity, which are
scarcely able to recall the worthy performances of others, I shall think
myself happy if I can follow closely such as have already satisfied your
request.
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