THE SUPPLIANT MAIDENS
25
King.
I have heard:
But speak: I mark thee closely.
Chorus.
I have scarves
And girdles that hold up my raiment—
King.
Why,
All women have them.
Chorus.
Out of these I'll fashion
An ornament and excellent device
To keep mine honour safe.
King.
Give thy words meaning:
What is it thou would'st say?
Chorus.
Give us a pledge,
Plant on some ground of faith these feeble feet;
If not—
King.
These gatherings, girdlings up of robes,
How shall they stead thee?
Chorus.
They shall serve to deck
These shapes with votive tablets never yet
Hanged up on hallowed images.
King.
A riddle!
The manner of this: expound.
