But I would stake my best villa that you have not been so gloomy for mere lack of victuals, unless you have just joined the Pythagoreans, and have taken a vow not to eat fish or beans." [176] A drink of vinegar and water very common among the soldiers.
"I do not know that I am especially gloomy to-night," replied Drusus, a bit testily.

"I know little whereon to make merry." "The arrows of Amor," hinted Antonius, "sink deep in the soul, and the god is unfair; he shoots venomed darts; the poison ever makes the pain greater." "I would you could endure your own troubles," retorted the other, "and let me care for mine!" "_Perpol,_ friend," replied Antonius, "don't be vexed! I see it is a case of your wanting little said on a sore point.

Well, keep silent, I won't tease you.

Doesn't Theognis declare:-- "'Caress me not with words, while far away Thy heart is absent and thy feelings stray' ?[177] [177] Elton, translator.
And doubtless you would reverse the saying and put 'my heart' for 'thy heart.' Forgive me." But Drusus, now that the ice was broken, was glad to talk.
"Now, amice, I won't harbour any ill feeling.

I know that you don't look at women the way I do.