Eksodos
Odysseus
(Returning with the wineskin.) Hearken, Cyclops; for I am well versed in the ways of Bacchus,
whom I have given thee to drink.
520
Cyclops
And who is Bacchus? some reputed god?
Odysseus
The greatest god men know to cheer their life.
Cyclops
I like his after-taste at any rate.
Odysseus
This is the kind of god he is; he harmeth no man.
Cyclops
But how does a god like being housed in a wine-skin?
525
Odysseus
Put him where one may, he is content there.
Cyclops
It is not right that gods should be clad in leather.
Odysseus
What of that, provided he please thee? does the leather hurt thee?
Cyclops
I hate the wine-skin, but the liquor we have here I love.
Odysseus
Stay, then, Cyclops; drink and be merry.
530
Cyclops
Must I not give my brethren a share in this liquor?
Odysseus
No, keep it thyself and thou wilt appear of more honour.
Cyclops
Give it my friends and I shall appear of more use.
Odysseus
Revelling is apt to end in blows, abuse, and strife.
Cyclops
I may be drunk, but no man will lay hands on me for all that.
535
Odysseus
Better stay at home, my friend, after a carouse.
Cyclops
Who loves not revelling then is but a simpleton.
Odysseus
But whoso stays at home, when drunk, is wise.
