Part 9

LYSISTRATA

Now quickly, Lampito, let us tie ourselves To this high purpose as tightly as the hemp of words Can knot together.

LAMPITO

Set out the terms in detail And we'll a' swear to them.

LYSISTRATA

Of course.... Well then Where is our Scythianess? Why are you staring? First lay the shield, boss downward, on the floor And bring the victim's inwards.

CAILONICE

But, Lysistrata, What is this oath that we're to swear?

LYSISTRATA

What oath! In Aeschylus they take a slaughtered sheep And swear upon a buckler. Why not we?

CALONICE

O Lysistrata, Peace sworn on a buckler!

LYSISTRATA

What oath would suit us then?

CALONICE

Something burden bearing Would be our best insignia.... A white horse! Let's swear upon its entrails.

LYSISTRATA

A horse indeed!

CALONICE

Then what will symbolise us?

LYSISTRATA

This, as I tell you-- First set a great dark bowl upon the ground And disembowel a skin of Thasian wine, Then swear that we'll not add a drop of water.

LAMPITO Ah, what aith could clink pleasanter than that!

LYSISTRATA Bring me a bowl then and a skin of wine.

CALONICE My dears, see what a splendid bowl it is; I'd not say No if asked to sip it off.

LYSISTRATA Put down the bowl. Lay hands, all, on the victim. Skiey Queen who givest the last word in arguments, And thee, O Bowl, dear comrade, we beseech: Accept our oblation and be propitious to us.

CALONICE What healthy blood, la, how it gushes out!

LAMPITO An' what a leesome fragrance through the air.