Aristophanes, Birds
Eugene O'Neill, Jr., Ed.

Oracle-Monger
“But when the wolves and the white crows shall dwell together between Corinth and Sicyon ...”

Pisthetaerus
But how do the Corinthians concern me?

Oracle-Monger
[970] It is the regions of the air that Bacis indicates in this manner.

“They must first sacrifice a white-fleeced goat to Pandora, and give the prophet who first reveals my words a good cloak and new sandals.”

Pisthetaerus
Does it say sandals there?

Oracle-Monger
Look at the book.

[975] “And besides this a goblet of wine and a good share of the entrails of the victim.”

Pisthetaerus
Of the entrails —does it say that?

Oracle-Monger
Look at the book.

“If you do as I command, divine youth, you shall be an eagle among the clouds; if not, you shall be neither turtle-dove, nor eagle, nor woodpecker.”

Pisthetaerus
[980] Does it say all that?

Oracle-Monger
Look at the book.

Pisthetaerus
This oracle in no sort of way resembles the one Apollo dictated to me:

“If an impostor comes without invitation to annoy you during the sacrifice and to demand a share of the victim, [985] apply a stout stick to his ribs.”

Oracle-Monger
You are drivelling.

Pisthetaerus
Look at the book.

“And don't spare him, were he an eagle from out of the clouds, were it Lampon himself or the great Diopithes.”