1–2
Prometheus
Release me, Zeus; I have suffered enough.
Zeus
Release you? you? Why, by rights your irons should be heavier, you should have the whole weight of Caucasus upon you, and instead of one, a dozen vultures, not just pecking at — your liver, but scratching out your eyes. You made these: abominable human creatures to vex us, you stole our fire, you invented women. I need not remind you how you overreached me about the meat-offerings; my portion, bones disguised in fat: yours, all the good.
Prometheus
And have I not been punished enough—riveted to the Caucasus all these years, feeding your bird (on which all worst curses light!) with my liver?
Zeus
"Tis not a tithe of your deserts,
Prometheus
Consider, I do not ask you to release me for nothing. I offer you information which is invaluable.
5
Prometheus
Wiles? to what end? you can find the Caucasus another time; and there are chains to be had, if you catch me cheating.
Zeus
Tell me first the nature of yout ‘invaluable’ offer.
Prometheus
If I tell you your present errand right, will that convince you that I can prophesy too?
Zeus
Of course it will.
5
Prometheus
You are bound on a little visit to Thetis.
Zeus
Right so far. And the sequel? I trust you now.
Prometheus
Have no dealings with her, Zeus. As sure as Neteus’s daughter conceives by you, your child shall mete you the measure you meted to—
Zeus
I shall lose my kingdom, you would say?
Prometheus
Avert it, Fate! I say only, that union portends this issue.
10
Zeus
Thetis, farewell! and for this Hephaestus shall set you free.
