PEACE
179
Hermes.
You are lost, you are dead.
Trygæus.
On what day?
Hermes.
This instant.
Trygæus.
But I have not provided myself with flour and cheese yet[1] to start for death.
Hermes.
You are kneaded and ground already, I tell you.[2]
Trygæus.
Hah! I have not yet tasted that gentle pleasure.
Hermes.
Don’t you know that Zeus has decreed death for him who is surprised exhuming Peace?
Trygæus.
What! must I really and truly die?
Hermes.
You must.
Trygæus.
Well then, lend me three drachmæ to buy a young pig; I wish to have myself initiated before I die.[3]
Hermes.
Oh! Zeus, the Thunderer![4]
Trygæus.
I adjure you in the name of the gods, master, don’t denounce us!