8 ARGONAUTAE
We once believed him reverend and refined,
Saw majesty in all that tottering gait,
And honour in the goat-like beard of him!
FIRST WOMAN.
A week ago your blue eyes were in tears,
Sidelong regarding the old mountebank.
SECOND WOMAN.
To-day I would not be his concubine
For all Iolchus—for all Thessaly!
THIRD WOMAN,
I see the same glance seek out Jason now.
SECOND WOMAN.
Ay, there’s a man! What muscles! What fine fire
In the quick eye! What vigour and warm strength!
FIRST WOMAN.
Yes, in your wishes, But indeed he is
A proper man. Away, you ancient egg!
PELIAS.
With what audacious foot and impious voice
Strides this young man and talks? Let him advance,
Trembling at our offended majesty.
Who art thou whose rude summons startles us
From work of state to listen a young mouth
Beardless? Speak, man, for shortly thou shalt die.
JASON.
Athena speaks.