19–20
Klotho
Happy thought, Hermes.
Charon
Climb up, then, and set your foot on the villain's neck; and a fair voyage to us!
Kyniskos
Charon, it is fair to tell you the truth from this moment. I should not have an obol to pay you when I have got across, for I have nothing but this wallet, which you see, and this club. But if you want any baling done, I am ready, or even to take an oar. You will have no fault to find if only you give me a strong, wellbalanced oar.
5
Charon
Row, then; for even that is payment enough from you.
Kyniskos
Is it, or must I start a boat-song to give the time?
Charon
By all means, if you know some sailor's song.
Kyniskos
I know a number; but see, these others are wailing tearfully in opposition. They will put us out in our singing.
First Dead Man
Alas for my goods!
Second Dead Man
Alas for my fields!
Third Dead Man
Woe is me, what a house I have left!
Fourth Dead Man
How many thousands my heir will get to make ducks and drakes of!
Fifth Dead Man
Alas for my young children!
5
Sixth Dead Man
Who will gather grapes from the vines I planted for myself last year?
Hermes
Mikyllos, do you make no lament? It is impious for any one to cross without a tear.
Mikyllos
Nonsense. I have nothing to lament for on a prosperous voyage.
Hermes
Still, just join a little in the groaning for custom's sake.
Mikyllos
I will make my moan, then, since you think best, Hermes. Alas for my soles! Alas for my old lasts! Woe is me for my rotten sandals! Poor wretch, I shall never again go without food from daybreak to nightfall! Never again shall I stalk about in winter barefoot and half naked, my teeth chattering with the cold! Who, pray tell, will have my knife and my awl?
10
