160 ARISTOPHANES.

Plaus. “The news was true. Here comes a fellow
singing about eagles.”

Young Man. “Of all things flying is the most
delightful. I am in love with your laws, my dear
birds, and want to live under them.”

Plaus. “What law in particular are you so fond
of 2?”

Y. M. “The one that makes it lawful for a young
bird to kick his father.”

Plaus. “Yes; we do think it a fine thing for a
chicken to get the better of his father.”

Y. M. “That is why I want to migrate. My idea
is to strangle my father and take possession of his
property.”

Plaus. “But, sir, we have a law that the young:
cranes must support their father,”

Y. M. “Support my father indeed! That would
not suit me at all.”

Plaus. “Well, my young friend, I will give you a
piece of advice. You seem fond of fighting. Go off
to Thrace, and have your fill of it there. But you
will hardly do for us.” .

The next arrival was a lyric poet, who wanted
wings, that he might mount into the clouds, and
search among them for fine ideas. After him came
an informer, who thought it would be very conven-
ient if he could fly from place to place in search of
victims, without any of the dangers of travel. All
that he got was what Plausible called a slashing pair