Page:Masterpieces of Greek Literature (1902).djvu/120

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90 AESCHYLUS

Hejjhaestus. I would some other hand

Were here to work it !

Strength. All Avork hath its pain,

Except to rule the gods. There is none free Except King Zeus.

Hephaestus. I know it very well ; 55

I argue not against it.

Strength. Why not, then.

Make haste and lock the fetters over him, Lest Zeus behold thee lagging ?

Hephaestus. Here be chains.

Zeus may behold these.

Strength. Seize him ; strike amain ;

Strike with the hammer on each side his hands ; eo Rivet him to the rock.

Hephaestus. The work is done,

And thoroughly done.

Strength. Still faster grapple him ;

Wedge him in deeper ; leave no inch to stir. He 's terrible for finding a way out From the irremediable.

Hephaestus. Here 's an arm, at least, es

Grappled past freeing.

Strength. Now, then, buckle me

The other securely. Let this wise one learn He 's duller than our Zeus.

Hephaestus. Oh, none but he

Accuse me justly.

Strength. Now, straight through the chest,

Take him and bite him with the clenching tooth 70 Of the adamantine wedge, and rivet him.

Hephaestus. Alas, Prometheus, what thou sufferest here I sorrow over.