Suppliant Maidens (762-775)

Since they have the tempers of lewd and impious beasts, we must guard against them quickly.

A fleet in getting under way is not so speedy,

nor yet in anchoring, when the securing cables must be brought ashore; and even at anchorage shepherds of ships do not feel immediately secure, above all if they have arrived on a harborless coast when the sun is sinking into night.

In a cautious pilot night is likely to beget anxiety. Then, too, the disembarking of an army cannot be effected with success before a ship has gained confidence in her moorings. But, for all your terror, remember not to neglect the gods. I will return when I have secured aid. The city will find no fault with a messenger,

old in years, but with youth in his heart and on his tongue. Exit