PRAXINOAe.
There, I'm myself. But from a child I feared
Horses, and slimy snakes. But haste we on:
A surging multitude is close behind.
GORGO [_to Old Lady_].
From the palace, mother?
OLD LADY.
Ay, child.
GORGO.
Is it fair
Of access?
OLD LADY.
Trying brought the Greeks to Troy.
Young ladies, they must try who would succeed.
GORGO.
The crone hath said her oracle and gone.
Women know all--how Adam married Eve.
--Praxinoae, look what crowds are round the door!
PRAXINOAe.
Fearful! Your hand, please, Gorgo. Eunoae, you
Hold Eutychis--hold tight or you'll be lost.
We'll enter in a body--hold us fast!
Oh dear, my muslin dress is torn in two,
Gorgo, already! Pray, good gentleman,
(And happiness be yours) respect my robe!
STRANGER.
I could not if I would--nathless I will.
PRAXINOAe.
They come in hundreds, and they push like swine.
STRANGER.
Lady, take courage: it is all well now.
PRAXINOAe.
And now and ever be it well with thee,
Sweet man, for shielding us! An honest soul
And kindly. Oh! they're smothering Eunoae:
Push, coward! That's right! 'All in,' the bridegroom said
And locked the door upon himself and bride.
GORGO.
Praxinoae, look! Note well this broidery first.
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