Part 11 (2/2)

At which he would look at me sideways, exclaiming, ”Keep for your web and your shuttle your care, Or for some hours hence your cheeks will be sore and hot; leave this alone, war is Man's sole affair!”

MAGISTRATE

By Zeus, but a man of fine sense, he.

LYSISTRATA

How sensible?

You dotard, because he at no time had lent His intractable ears to absorb from our counsel one temperate word of advice, kindly meant?

But when at the last in the streets we heard shouted (everywhere ringing the ominous cry) ”Is there no one to help us, no saviour in Athens?” and, ”No, there is no one,” come back in reply.

At once a convention of all wives through h.e.l.las here for a serious purpose was held, To determine how husbands might yet back to wisdom despite their reluctance in time be compelled.

Why then delay any longer? It's settled. For the future you'll take up our old occupation.

Now in turn you're to hold tongue, as we did, and listen while we show the way to recover the nation.

MAGISTRATE

_You_ talk to _us!_ Why, you're mad. I'll not stand it.

LYSISTRATA

Cease babbling, you fool; till I end, hold your tongue.

MAGISTRATE

If I should take orders from one who wears veils, may my neck straightaway be deservedly wrung.

LYSISTRATA

O if that keeps pestering you, I've a veil here for your hair, I'll fit you out in everything As is only fair.

CALONICE

Here's a spindle that will do.

MYRRHINE

I'll add a wool-basket too.

LYSISTRATA

Girdled now sit humbly at home, Munching beans, while you card wool and comb. For war from now on is the Women's affair.

WOMEN.

Come then, down pitchers, all, And on, courageous of heart, In our comradely venture Each taking her due part.

I could dance, dance, dance, and be fresher after, I could dance away numberless suns, To no weariness let my knees bend.

Earth I could brave with laughter, Having such wonderful girls here to friend.

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