2–4
ZEUS
Certainly, for nothing can come to pass outside the control of the Fates, nor beyond the thread they spin. As for the poets, all that they sing under the inspiration of the Muses is true, but when the goddesses desert them and they compose by - themselves, then they make mistakes and contradict what they said before. And it is excusable that being mere men they do not recognize the truth when that influence is gone which formerly abode with them and rhapsodized through them.
CYNISCUS
Well, we'll assume this to be so. But answer me another question. There are only three of the Fates, are there not—Clotho, Lachesis, I believe, and Atropos?
CYNISCUS
Well then, how about Destiny and Fortune? They are also very much talked of. Who are they, and what power has each of them? Equal power with the Fates, or even somewhat more than they? I hear everyone saying that there is nothing more powerful than Fortune and Destiny.
ZEUS
It is not permitted you to know everything, Cyniscus. But why did you ask me that question about the Fates?
CYNISCUS
Just tell me something else first, Zeus. Are you ods under their rule too, and must you needs be ttached to their thread?
ZEUS
We must, Cyniscus. But what made you smile?
