University of Virginia Library

In order to occupy the vacant space which has been left by the printer, the translator is tempted, for once, to insert a justificatory comment.—The speech of Nicias in the opposite page is extended to three lines; in the original it consists of a line and a half, which might be more accurately and concisely translated thus:

But, there would be one main defect in this accurate translation, namely, that it would not express the intention of the author, nor the effect produced by the actor in repeating the original; for if we consider it in this view, we find that, short as it is, it contains three distinct breaks; one at the end of the second word, another at the end of the third, and a third at the end of the line. These momentary pauses are characteristic of timid resentment, expressing itself by fits and starts,—a character which, to the English reader perusing a printed text, could not be rendered obvious, without employing a compass of words much larger than the original.

Again we see, that the courage and anger of Nicias, even with the help of the beating which he has just received, are barely sufficient to enable him to follow the example of Demosthenes; even in wrath and pain, he is contented to “say Ditto” to what his comrade had said before.—The Poet's intention, in this respect, is made more distinctly palpable to the English reader, by the first line of the translated speech.

And thus much may serve, for a commentary on a passage of three lines; and as a sample of others; which if they were not wearisome and egotistical might be extended to every page of this and the preceding play.