136 ARISTOPHANES.

our way. We always do this to those whom we
know to be disposed to evil, that they may learn to
fear the gods.”

Strep. “Well, it is very bad, but it is just. But
come, my son, let us destroy these scoundrels who
have deceived both you and me.”

Strepsiades accordingly, with the help of his slaves,
for his son refused to lend a hand, proceeded to at-
tack the Reflectory. The slaves set a ladder against
the wall, mounted it, and plied a pick-axe on the roof.
The old man himself caught up a lighted torch and set
fire to the lower story. ‘“ What are you doing ?” cried
one disciple. — “Chopping logic with the beams,”
said the assailant.—‘“ Who are you?” shouted an-
other. — “ The man whose cloak you stole.” —‘ What
are you after?” asked Socrates himself. — “I walk in
air, and contemplate the sun,” was the answer. — “I
shall be suffocated,” cried Socrates. — ‘I shall be
burnt alive,” said Cherephon. But the Clouds ap-
peared. “Strike, and spare not,” they said; “you
have many good reasons, and the best is this, — that
they blasphemed the gods.”