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but these goddesses are all equally beautiful and I do not know ~ how a man could withdraw his eyes from one and transfer them to another. They are not inclined to come away readily, but wherever one directs them first, they take firm hold and commend what is before them; and if they pass over to something else, they see that this too is beautiful and linger upon it, mastered by what is near. In short, their beauty encompasses and completely enthralls me, and I am distressed that I cannot see with my whole body as Argus did. I think I should pass a becoming judgement if I should give the apple to them all.— Another thing: one of them is Zeus’ sister and wife, and the other two are his daughters! How, then, could the decision help being hazardous from that point of view also?
HERMES I do not know; but it is impossible to escape carrying out what Zeus has commanded.
PARIS Do me this one favour, Hermes: persuade them not to be angry with me, the two that are defeated, but to think that only my sight is at fault.
HERMES They say they will do so, and now it is high time for you to get your judging done.
PARIS I shall try; what else can one do? But first I want to know whether it will satisfy the requirements to look them over just as they are, or must I have them undress for a thorough examination?
HERMES That is your affair, as you are the judge. Give your orders as you will.
PARIS As I will? I want to see them naked.
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