THE BACCHAE
Project Gutenberg EPUB3 edition
Euripides and Murray, Gilbert
What Dost fear? Only to save thee do I plot.
Pentheus.
It is some compact ye have made, whereby To dance these hills for ever!
Dionysus.
Verily, That is my compact, plighted with my Lord!
Pentheus (turning from him).
Ho, armourers! Bring forth my shield and sword!— And thou, be silent!
Dionysus (after regarding him fixedly, speaks with resignation).
Ah!—Have then thy will!
[He fixes his eyes upon Pentheus again, while the armourers bring out his armour; then speaks in a tone of command.
Man, thou wouldst fain behold them on the hill Praying!
Pentheus (who during the rest of this scene, with a few exceptions, simply speaks the thoughts that Dionysus puts into him, losing power over his own mind).
That would I, though it cost me all The gold of Thebes!
Dionysus.
So much? Thou art quick to fall To such great longing.
Pentheus (somewhat bewildered at what he has said).
Aye; 'twould grieve me much To see them flown with wine.
Dionysus.
Yet cravest thou such A sight as would much grieve thee?
Pentheus.
Yes; I fain Would watch, ambushed among the pines.
Dionysus.
'Twere vain To hide. They soon will track thee out.
Pentheus.
Well said! 'Twere best done openly.
Dionysus.
Wilt thou be led By me, and try the venture?
Pentheus.
Aye, indeed! Lead on. Why should we tarry?
Dionysus.
First we need A rich and trailing robe of fine-linen To gird thee.
Pentheus.
Nay; am I a woman, then, And no man more?
Dionysus.
Wouldst have them slay thee dead? No man may see their mysteries.
Pentheus.
Well said!— I marked thy subtle temper long ere now.
Dionysus.
'Tis Dionyse that prompteth me.
Pentheus.