The Centurion monologue (Act 1) — Androcles and the Lion

(_to Lavinia_) Here are some pals for you. This little bit is Ferrovius that you talk so much about. (_Ferrovius turns on him threateningly. The Centurion holds up his left forefinger in admonition_). Now remember that you’re a Christian, and that you’ve got to return good for evil. (_Ferrovius controls himself convulsively; moves away from temptation to the east side near Lentulus; clasps his hands in silent prayer; and throws himself on his knees_). That’s the way to manage them, eh! This fine fellow (_indicating Androcles, who comes to his left, and makes Lavinia a heartbroken salutation_) is a sorcerer. A Greek tailor, he is. A real sorcerer, too: no mistake about it. The tenth marches with a leopard at the head of the column. He made a pet of the leopard; and now he’s crying at being parted from it. (_Androcles sniffs lamentably_). Ain’t you, old chap? Well, cheer up, we march with a Billy goat (_Androcles brightens up_) that’s killed two leopards and ate a turkey-cock. You can have him for a pet if you like. (_Androcles, quite consoled, goes past the Centurion to Lavinia, and sits down contentedly on the ground on her left_). This dirty dog (_collaring Spintho_) is a real Christian. He mobs the temples, he does (_at each accusation he gives the neck of Spintho’s tunic a twist_); he goes smashing things mad drunk, he does; he steals the gold vessels, he does; he assaults the priestesses, he does pah! (_He flings Spintho into the middle of the group of prisoners_). You’re the sort that makes duty a pleasure, you are.