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LYSISTRATA
I've thought the whole thing out till there's no flaw.
We shall surprise the Acropolis today:
That is the duty set the older dames.
While we sit here talking, they are to go
And under pretence of sacrificing, seize it.

LAMPITO
Certie, that's fine; all's warking for the best.

LYSISTRATA
Now quickly, Lampito, let us tie ourselves
To this high purpose as tightly as the hemp of words
Can knot together.

LAMPITO
Set out the terms in detail
And we'll a' swear to them.

LYSISTRATA
Of course.... Well then
Where is our Scythianess? Why are you staring?
First lay the shield, boss downward, on the floor
And bring the victim's inwards.

CAILONICE
But, Lysistrata,
What is this oath that we're to swear?

LYSISTRATA
What oath!
In Aeschylus they take a slaughtered sheep
And swear upon a buckler. Why not we?

CALONICE
O Lysistrata, Peace sworn on a buckler!

LYSISTRATA
What oath would suit us then?

CALONICE
Something burden bearing
Would be our best insignia.... A white horse!
Let's swear upon its entrails.

LYSISTRATA
A horse indeed!

CALONICE
Then what will symbolise us?

LYSISTRATA
This, as I tell you—
First set a great dark bowl upon the ground
And disembowel a skin of Thasian wine,
Then swear that we'll not add a drop of water.

LAMPITO
     Ah, what aith could clink pleasanter than that!

LYSISTRATA
     Bring me a bowl then and a skin of wine.

CALONICE
     My dears, see what a splendid bowl it is;
     I'd not say No if asked to sip it off.

LYSISTRATA
     Put down the bowl. Lay hands, all, on the victim.
     Skiey Queen who givest the last word in arguments,
     And thee, O Bowl, dear comrade, we beseech:
     Accept our oblation and be propitious to us.

CALONICE
     What healthy blood, la, how it gushes out!

LAMPITO
     An' what a leesome fragrance through the air.

LYSISTRATA
     Now, dears, if you will let me, I'll speak first.

CALONICE
     Only if you draw the lot, by Aphrodite!

LYSISTRATA
     SO, grasp the brim, you, Lampito, and all.
     You, Calonice, repeat for the rest
     Each word I say. Then you must all take oath
     And pledge your arms to the same stern conditions—

LYSISTRATA
     To husband or lover I'll not open arms

CALONICE
To husband or lover I'll not open arms

LYSISTRATA
Though love and denial may enlarge his charms.

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