1–3
Zeus
Now get those benches straight there, and make the place fit to be seen. Bring up the lots, one of you, and put them in line. Give them a rub up first, though; we must have them looking their best, to attract bidders. Hermes, you can declare the sale-room open, and a welcome to all comers.—For Sale! A varied assortment of Live Creeds. Tenets of every description—Cash on delivery; or credit allowed on suitable security.
Hermes
Here they come, swarming in. No time to lose; we must not keep them waiting.
Heraclitus
What are we to put up first?
Zeus
The Ionic fellow, with the long hair. He seems a showy piece of goods.
Heraclitus
Step up, Pythagoreanism, and show yourself.
Heraclitus
Now here is a creed of the first water. Who bids for this handsome article? What gentleman says Superhumanity? Harmony of the Universe! Transmigration of souls! Who bids? First Dealer. He looks all right. And what can he do?
5
Magic, music, arithmetic, geometry, astronomy, jugglery. Prophecy in all its branches,
First Dealer
Can I ask him some questions?
Heraclitus
Ask away, and welcome.
First Dealer
Where do you come from?
First Dealer
Where did you get your schooling?
Pythagoras
From the sophists in Egypt.
First Dealer
If I buy you, what will you teach me?
5
Pythagoras
Nothing. I will remind you.
Pythagoras
But first I shall have to cleanse your soul of its filth.
First Dealer
Well, suppose the cleansing process complete. How is the reminding done?
