10
ARISTOPHANES' FROGS
The one good thing still left us, if it is one.
For even as to that I have my doubts.
Heracles.
But say, why don't you bring up Sophocles
By preference, if you must have some one back?
Dionysus.
No, not till I've had Iophon quite alone
And seen what note he gives without his father.
Besides, Euripides, being full of tricks,
Would give the slip to his master, if need were,
And try to escape with me; while Sophocles,
Content with us, will be content in Hell.
Heracles.
And Agathon, where is he?
Dionysus.
Gone far away,
A poet true, whom many friends regret.
Heracles.
Beshrew him! Where?
Dionysus.
To feast with peaceful kings!
Heracles.
And Xenocles?
Dionysus.
Oh, plague take Xenocles!
Heracles.
Pythangelus, then?
[Dionysus shrugs his shoulders in expressive silence.
