Part 9 (1/2)

Aye, and next?

DIONYSUS.

The said Robe, falling to thy feet; and on thine head A snood.

PENTHEUS.

And after? Hast thou aught beyond?

DIONYSUS.

Surely; the dappled fawn-skin and the wand.

PENTHEUS (_after a struggle with himself_).

Enough! I cannot wear a robe and snood.

DIONYSUS.

Wouldst liefer draw the sword and spill men's blood?

PENTHEUS (_again doubting_).

True, that were evil.--Aye; 'tis best to go First to some place of watch.

DIONYSUS.

Far wiser so, Than seek by wrath wrath's bitter recompense.

PENTHEUS.

What of the city streets? Canst lead me hence Unseen of any?

DIONYSUS.

Lonely and untried Thy path from hence shall be, and I thy guide!

PENTHEUS.

I care for nothing, so these Baccha.n.a.ls Triumph not against me! . . . Forward to my halls Within!--I will ordain what seemeth best.

DIONYSUS.

So be it, O King! 'Tis mine to obey thine hest, Whate'er it be.

PENTHEUS (_after hesitating once more and waiting_).

Well, I will go--perchance To march and scatter them with serried lance, Perchance to take thy plan. . . . I know not yet.

[_Exit_ PENTHEUS _into the Castle_.

DIONYSUS.

Damsels, the lion walketh to the net!

He finds his Bacchae now, and sees and dies, And pays for all his sin!--O Dionyse, This is thine hour and thou not far away.