However, if you think that the subtlety, of which all
believe you to be fully possessed, is greater than that found in women,
I yield place to you to tell the seventh story; and, if you bring
yourself forward as the hero, I doubt not that we shall hear wickedness
enough."
"I am not here," replied Hircan, "to make myself out worse than I am;
there are some who do that rather more than is to my liking."
So saying he looked at his wife, who quickly said--
"Do not fear to tell the truth on my account. I can more easily bear
to hear you relate your crafty tricks than to see them played before my
eyes, though none of them could lessen the love I bear you."
"For that reason," replied Hircan, "I make no complaint of all the false
opinions you have had of me. And so, since we understand each other,
there will be more security for the future. Yet I am not so foolish as
to relate a story of myself, the truth of which might be vexatious
to you. I will tell you one of a gentleman who was among my dearest
friends."
[Illustration: 108.
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