7–9
Paris
Let me see what it is about. For THE FAIR, it says. But, my lord Hermes, how shall a mortal and a rustic like myself be judge of such unparalleled beauty? This is no sight for a herdsman’s eyes; let the fine city folk decide on such matters. As for me, I can tell you which of two goats is the fairer beast; or I can judge betwixt heifer and heifer;—’tis my trade.
But here, where all are beautiful alike, I know not how a man may leave looking at one, to look upon another. Where my eyes fall, there they fasten,—for there is beauty: I move them, and whaf do I find? more loveliness! I am fixed again, yet distracted by neighbouring charms, I bathe in beauty: I am enthralled: ah, why am I not all eyes like Argus? Methinks it were a fair award, to give the apple to all three. Then again: one is the wife and sister of Zeus; the others are his daughters. Take it where you will, ’tis a hard matter to judge.
Hermes
So it is, Paris. At the same time—Zeus’s orders! There is no way out of it.
Paris
Well, please point out to them, Hermes, that the losers must not be angry with me; the fault will be in my eyes only.
Hermes
That is quite understood. And now to work.
Paris
I must do what I can; there is no help for it. But first let me ask,—am I just to look at them as they are, or must I go into the matter thoroughly?
Hermes
That is for you to decide, in virtue of your office. You have only to give your orders; it is as you think best.
Paris
As I think best? Then I will be thorough.
5
