Page:The Eleven Comedies (1912) Vol 1.djvu/183

Hermes.

You are lost, you are dead.

Trygæus.

On what day?

Hermes.

This instant.

Trygæus.

But I have not provided myself with flour and cheese yet^[1] to start for death.

Hermes.

You are kneaded and ground already, I tell you.^[2]

Trygæus.

Hah! I have not yet tasted that gentle pleasure.

Hermes.

Don’t you know that Zeus has decreed death for him who is surprised exhuming Peace?

Trygæus.

What! must I really and truly die?

Hermes.

You must.

Trygæus.

Well then, lend me three drachmæ to buy a young pig; I wish to have myself initiated before I die.^[3]

Hermes.

Oh! Zeus, the Thunderer!^[4]

Trygæus.

I adjure you in the name of the gods, master, don’t denounce us!

1. As the soldiers had to do when starting on an expedition.
2. That is, you are pedicated.
3. The initiated were thought to enjoy greater happiness after death.
4. He summons Zeus to reveal Trygæus’ conspiracy.