256 ARISTOPHANES
But didapper, I say, do step within there, 95
And call your master out.
Trochilus. But just at present
He 's taking a little rest after his luncheon. Some myrtle berries and a dish of worms.
Euelpid.es. No matter, call him here. We wish to speak to him.
Trochilus. He '11 not be pleased, I 'm sure ; but
notwithstanding, ίου
Since you desire it, I '11 make bold to call him. ^Exit.
Peistlietairus [loohing after hinx]. Confound ye, I say, you 've frightened me to death.
Euelpides. He has scared away my jackdaw ; it's flown away.
Peisthetairus. You let it go yourself, you coward.
Euelpides. Tell me.
Have not you let your raven go ?
Peisthetairus. Not I. los
Euelpides. Where is it then ?
Peisthetainis. Flown off of its own accord.
Euelpides. You did not let it go ! you 're a brave fellow !
The ΐίοΟΡΟΈ from within. Hoopoe. Open the door, I say ; let me go forth. The royal Hoopoe appears with a tremendous beak and crest.
Euelpides. Ο Hercules, what a creature ! What a plumage ! And a triple tier of crests ; what can it be ! uo
Hoopoe. Who called ? who wanted me ?
Euelpides. May the heavenly powers ....
.... Confound ye, I say aside
Hoopoe. You mock at me perhaps,
Seeing these plumes. But, stranger, you must know —
