ACTUS SECUNDUS
JASON.
We are here,
Then, to invoke Athena, immolate
The sacred cock upon her altar-stone,
That She, who sprang in armour from the brain
Of the All-Father, may descend to bless
Our labours, since delay grows dangerous,
If haply by Her power and subtlety
She please to aid the work, and to perform
A prodigy to save us! Mighty Queen,
That art the balance and the sword alike
In cunning Argus’ brain——
HERACLES.
Ay! Mighty Wisdom,
Who thus can overshadow such a fool,
And make him capable to build a ship.
ARGUS.
O Thou! Athena, whose bright wisdom shone
In this beef-witted fellow, making him
Competent even to sweep a stable out!
Glorious task!—I shall return: anon.
JASON.
Nay, follow not! The Goddess were displeased,
Coming, to find our greatest hero gone.
THESEUS.
This is the midmost hour of day.
It