Stasimon 1
[Lyric-Scene]
Yes, for he is robust in body, and in good health, and is come of the high-plumed dames of Coesyra. I will go for him, and if he be not willing, I will certainly drive him from my house. To Socrates. Go in and wait for me a short time.
Chorus.
Do you perceive that you are soon to obtain the greatest benefits through us alone of the gods? For this man is ready to do everything that you bid him.
But you, while the man is astounded and evidently elated, having perceived it, will quickly fleece him to the best of your power.
Exit Socrates. For matters of this sort are somehow accustomed to turn the other way.
810
Strepsiades.
By Mist, you certainly shall not stay here any longer! But go and gnaw the columns of Megacles.
Phidippides.
My good sir, what is the matter with you, O father? You are not in your senses, by Olympian Jupiter!
Strepsiades.
See, see, Olympian Jupiter! What folly! To think of your believing in Jupiter, as old as you are!
Phidippides.
Why, pray, did you laugh at this?
820
Strepsiades.
Reflecting that you are a child, and have antiquated notions. Yet, however, approach, that you may know more; and I will tell you a thing, by learning which you will be a man. But see that you do not teach this to any one.
820
Phidippides.
Well, what is it?
825
Strepsiades.
You swore now by Jupiter.
825
Strepsiades.
Seest thou, then, how good a thing is learning? There is no Jupiter, O Phidippides!
Strepsiades.
Vortex reigns, having expelled Jupiter.
Phidippides.
Bah! Why do you talk foolishly?
Strepsiades.
Be assured that it is so.
Phidippides.
Who says this?
830
Strepsiades.
Socrates the Melian, and Chaerephon, who knows the footmarks of fleas.
830
Phidippides.
Have you arrived at such a pitch of frenzy that you believe madmen?
Strepsiades.
Speak words of good omen, and say nothing bad of clever men
