Scene
II
Callimachus
For a long time now I have been in great trouble. I hope that by confiding in you I shall find relief.
Friends
When a man tells his friends of his sufferings it is only fair that they should try to share them.
Callimachus
I would to heaven that you could lighten this load upon my heart!
Friends
Well, tell us precisely what is wrong. We will grieve with you, if we must. If not, we can do our best to distract your mind.
Callimachus
I love—
Friends
What do you love?
Callimachus
A thing of beauty, a thing of grace!
Friends
That is too vague! How can we tell from this what is the object of your love?
Callimachus
Woman.
Friends
Ah, now you say “woman” we all understand!
Callimachus
By woman, I mean a woman.
Friends
Clearer still! But it is impossible to give an opinion on a subject until the subject is defined. So name the woman.
Callimachus
Drusiana.
Friends
What? The wife of Prince Andronicus?
Callimachus
Yes.
Friends
Nothing can come of that. She has been baptized.
Callimachus
What do I care, if I can win her love?
Friends
You cannot.
Callimachus
What makes you say so?
Friends
You are crying for the moon.
Callimachus
Am I the first to do so? Have I not the example of many others to encourage me?
Friends
Now listen. This woman you sigh for is a follower of the holy Apostle John, and has devoted herself entirely to God. They say she will not even go to the bed of Andronicus although he is a devout Christian. Is it likely that she will listen to you?
Callimachus
I came to you for consolation, and instead you drive me to despair!
Friends
We should be poor friends if we consoled and flattered you at the expense of the truth.
Callimachus
Since you refuse to advise me, I will go to her and pour out my soul in words that would melt a heart of stone!
Friends
Fool! It is hopeless!
Callimachus
I defy the stars!
Friends
We shall see.