166 ARISTOPHANES.

low here, you would be a beggar. Otherwise, of
course, all the property he may leave will come to
you.”

Plaus. “Now, Hercules, listen to me. Your uncle
is cheating you; you are not a legitimate son, and
you would have nothing. Your father couldn’t
leave you his property even if he wished to-do
‘it. ‘Failing legitimate children, to the testator’s
brother,’ that is how the law runs. Your uncle
would have it all. Now, put in your lot with us,
and I'll make it worth your while.”

fer. “You are quite right about the girl I’m
for giving her up.”

Pos. “TI vote against the proposition.”

Plaus. “The matter rests with the Triballian.
Triballian, what do you say ?”

Trib. “Pitty girli and great Queendi I give to
Birdi.”

Pos. “Well, have your own way; I shall say
nothing now.”

Plausible, accordingly, departed to heaven to fetch
his bride, Hercules staying behind to look after the
cooking. In a very short time he returned, bring-
ing the fair lady with him, and was greeted with a
song of welcome from his subjects : —

“Stand aside and clear the ground,
Spreading in a circle round
With a wor hy welcoming ;
To salute our noble king,