Please you now to send to us
Our brave father, Danaus;
His wise forethought points our way;
Where he counsels we obey.
He will choose us our abode
In some kindly neighbourhood.
For so it is, strange speech, strange ways
Are a mark for men's dispraise.
Happier be our lot: may we
Dwell with honour in your land
Free from hatred, censure-free.
Captives of the bow and spear,
Yet not uncherished, not less dear,
Each in order take your stand
By your mistresses, for you
Are our maiden retinue
That Danaus in his day of power
Gave us for a queenly dower.
[Enter Danaus with armed guard.]
Danaus.
Children, unto the Argives offer prayers,
Blood-offerings and libations, as to Gods
Olympian! for our saviours they are
Past question. When I told their magistrates
How ye were used, their friendly hearts received
My tidings in such wise as to our kin
Shall prove a draught of bitter wine. Myself
This body-guard of spearmen they assigned,
Both that I might be honourably attended,
