Page:Tragedies of Sophocles (Jebb 1917).djvu/90

78 . First, from a perennial spring fetch holy drink-offerings, borne in clean hands.

. And when I have gotten this pure draught?

. Bowls there are, the work of a cunning craftsman: crown their edges and the handles at either brim.

. With branches, or woollen cloths, or in what wise?

. Take the freshly-shorn wool of an ewe-lamb.

. Good; and then,—to what last rite shall I proceed?

. Pour thy drink-offerings, with thy face to the dawn.

. With these vessels whereof thou speakest shall I pour them?

. Yea, in three streams; but empty the last vessel wholly.

. Wherewith shall I fill this, ere I set it? Tell me this also.

. With water and honey; but bring no wine thereto.

. And when the ground under the dark shade hath drunk of these?

. Lay on it thrice nine sprays of olive with both thine hands, and make this prayer the while.

. The prayer I fain would hear—'tis of chief moment.

. That, as we call them Benign Powers, with hearts benign they may receive the suppliant for saving, be this the prayer,—thine own, or his who prays for thee; speak inaudibly, and lift not up thy voice; then retire, without looking behind. Thus do, and I would