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54

On the Gibberish Tree's thick branches high

As he utters a nightingale note,

A tumultuous cry

That he's certain to die

Even with an equal vote!

It behoves this sacred Chorus, in its wisdom and its bliss,

To assist the state with counsel. Now our first advice is this:

Let Athenians all stand equal; penal laws be swept away.

Some of us have been misguided, following Phrynichus astray;

Now for all of these, we urge you, let full freedom be decreed

To confess the cause that tripped them and blot out that old misdeed.

Next, no man should live in Athens outcast, robbed of every right.

Shame it is that low-born aliens, just for sharing one sea-fight,

Should forthwith become 'Plataeans' and instead of slaves be masters—

(Not that in the least I blame you for thus meeting our disasters;

No; I pay respectful homage to the one wise thing you've done):

But remember these men also, your own kinsmen, sire and son,