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256 256 ARISTOPHANES

But didapper, I say, do step within there, 95

And call your master out.

Trochilus. But just at present

He 's taking a little rest after his luncheon. Some myrtle berries and a dish of worms.

Euelpid.es. No matter, call him here. We wish to speak to him.

Trochilus. He '11 not be pleased, I 'm sure ; but

notwithstanding, ίου

Since you desire it, I '11 make bold to call him. ^Exit.

Peistlietairus [loohing after hinx]. Confound ye, I say, you 've frightened me to death.

Euelpides. He has scared away my jackdaw ; it's flown away.

Peisthetairus. You let it go yourself, you coward.

Euelpides. Tell me.

Have not you let your raven go ?

Peisthetairus. Not I. los

Euelpides. Where is it then ?

Peisthetainis. Flown off of its own accord.

Euelpides. You did not let it go ! you 're a brave fellow !

The ΐίοΟΡΟΈ from within. Hoopoe. Open the door, I say ; let me go forth. The royal Hoopoe appears with a tremendous beak and crest.

Euelpides. Ο Hercules, what a creature ! What a plumage ! And a triple tier of crests ; what can it be ! uo

Hoopoe. Who called ? who wanted me ?

Euelpides. May the heavenly powers ....

.... Confound ye, I say aside

Hoopoe. You mock at me perhaps,

Seeing these plumes. But, stranger, you must know —