5–2
Hera
Yes, but these men are all alike—they have no delicacy. I suppose, when he goes home, he will boast to every one of how he has enjoyed the embraces of Hera, the wife of Zeus! Why, he may tell them that I am in love with him! And they will believe it; they will know nothing about the cloud.
Zeus
If he says anything of the kind he shall soon find himself in Hades, spinning round on a wheel for all eternity. That will keep him busy! And serve him right; not for falling in love—I see no great harm in that—but for letting his tongue wag.
Hephaestus
Have you seen Maia’s baby, Apollo? such a pretty little thing, with a smile for everybody; you can see it is going to be a treasure,
Apollo
That baby a treasure? well, in mischief, Iapetus is young beside it.
Hephaestus
Why, what harm can it do, only just born?
Apollo
Ask Posidon; it stole his trident. Ask Ares; he was surprised to find his sword gone out of the scabbard. Not to mention myself, disarmed of bow and arrows.
Hephaestus
Never! that infant? he has hardly found his legs yet; he is not out of his baby-linen.
Apollo
Ah, you will find out, Hephaestus, if he gets within reach of you.
Apollo
Well? all your tools safe? none missing?
Hephaestus
Of course not.
5
Apollo
I advise you to make sure.
Hephaestus
Zeus! where are my pincers?
Apollo
Ah, you will find them among the baby-linen,
Hephaestus
So light-fingered? one would swear he had practised petty larceny in the womb.
