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diff --git a/.gitattributes b/.gitattributes new file mode 100644 index 0000000..6833f05 --- /dev/null +++ b/.gitattributes @@ -0,0 +1,3 @@ +* text=auto +*.txt text +*.md text diff --git a/78211-0.txt b/78211-0.txt new file mode 100644 index 0000000..d91aa68 --- /dev/null +++ b/78211-0.txt @@ -0,0 +1,4757 @@ +*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 78211 *** + + + + + CIRCE + + _A + Dramatic Fantasy_ + + _by_ + ISAAC FLAGG + + With a Frontispiece + by + Bernard Maybeck + + Copyright + 1915 + By Isaac Flagg + + Acting Rights Reserved + + + + +[Illustration] + + + + +_To_ + +MABEL LAMMÉ HAYS + + + _Rarest of enchantment deem_ + _The beginning and the end:_ + _At life’s morning in the dream,_ + _At life’s evening in the friend._ + + + + + PRINTED AND BOUND BY + THE ROYCROFTERS [Illustration] + EAST AURORA, NEW YORK + + + + +[Illustration] + + + + +THE ARGUMENT + + +Homer relates that Ulysses, king of Ithaca in Greece, sailing homeward +after the capture of Troy, drifted into unknown seas in consequence of +the wrath of Neptune; and after losing all but one of his twelve ships, +landed with the sole remaining vessel upon the island of the enchantress +Circe, who transformed one-half of his ship’s company, twenty-two in +number, into swine. He relates further that Ulysses, apprised by Mercury +of the fate of his companions, and furnished by the god with an antidote +for the spells of the sorceress, compelled her to restore his men to +their human shape. Thereupon, at the invitation of Circe the rest of the +crew join their mates at her palace, where all spend a year in festivity +and merry-making before proceeding on their way with precise instructions +from the Enchantress regarding the homeward voyage. + +The experiences of Ulysses and his followers, as described in the +Odyssey, immediately previous to their arrival at the Isle of Circe, +had been of an extraordinary and alarming character. A number of men +had been devoured by Polyphemus the Cyclops in his cave, where he had +entrapped a party, the survivors escaping by riding out, clasped under +the bellies of his sheep, after they had made the monster drunk and +blinded his one eye with a fiery stake. Later, they came to the domain of +Æolus, king of the winds, who presented Ulysses with a number of bags +holding the adverse winds in confinement. But during the sleep of their +commander, when already near their native shore, some of the men through +curiosity untying the bags, the winds broke loose and swept them back to +Æolus, who drove them all forth with contempt. They next encountered the +Læstrygones, a race of man-eating giants. Being shown the way to the town +by a daughter of the giant king, some men were seized and devoured on the +spot; while from an attack made upon the ships collected in the harbor +only one vessel succeeded in escaping. + +No mention is made of Penelope, the wife of Ulysses, at any point in +the story of Circe; but we read that Ulysses lingered in the enchanted +island, until his men were finally compelled, seizing an opportunity when +Circe was away, to remonstrate with their chief and rouse him to thoughts +of a return to his home. + +Homer says that the attendants of the Enchantress in her palace were +nymphs, such as derive their being from the fountains, the groves, and +the rivers flowing to the sea. + +The First Act of the play brings Ulysses and his companions into Circe’s +palace; the Second Act takes them out of it. + +[Illustration] + + + + +[Illustration] + +CIRCE + +_A Dramatic Fantasy_ + + + + +[Illustration] + + + + +PERSONS REPRESENTED + + + CIRCE, the Enchantress + PHILINNA } + THERMIA } Nymphs, companions and attendants to Circe + MYRTO } + THRATTIS, the lute-girl + GRAEA, the dumb swine-maiden + Other nymphs attending Circe + MIKKOS, an ape + ULYSSES, a Commander + EURYLOCHUS, his mate + THERON, the ship’s cook + ELPENOR, a feeble-minded youth, the cook’s assistant + GLAUCUS } + PHORBAS } + PHILEMON } Sailors + XENIAS } + Other members of Ulysses’ ship’s-company + MERCURY, Messenger of the Immortals and Luck-bringer to men + +THE PLACE: _A small woody island, inhabited only by the Enchantress and +her Nymphs, who dwell in a palace at the centre and summit of the isle._ + + + + +[Illustration: CIRCE] + + + + +[Illustration: ACT ONE] + +[Illustration: THE FIRST ACT] + + +I + +A preliminary scene of mute action. The front of CIRCE’S palace at the +hour just after sunset. The edifice is of variously tinted stone, a +combination of several architectural masses. The windows of the building +are tall and very narrow, overshadowed with creeping plants. Its main +entrance, at the Left of the Centre, is from a massive porch with +gargoyles of serpents at the corners of its roof. The porch is reached +by a flight of wide, low steps; the doorway itself, low and wide, deeply +receding and darkened by the ample foliage of overhanging vines. The +palace faces eastward upon a smooth open court-yard enclosed by a wall +of stone with spacious gateway at the Right. The entrance to the court +at the Left corner of the building is inconspicuous. At the main gateway +there is artificial representation of wolves and leopards as if tame +and serving as watchdogs. Behind the court-yard wall rise large trees +throwing deep shadows in the twilight. A fountain, dragon-shaped, with +circular basin, is centrally placed in the court, that is just at the +Right of the porch steps. + +As the curtain rises, a humming sound as of a swiftly turned +spinning-wheel is heard behind the scenes; and presently the music of +CIRCE’S song (the words of which are sung in a later Scene) is played +upon flute and violin. The fountain is playing, and its spray, rising +and falling intermittently, gleams with a golden light, occasionally +changing to a faint blue, and then becoming golden again. Some of the +serpentine gargoyles are seen to sway and writhe like living snakes. A +large _ape_ emerges from a small window above the porch, stands upon its +roof at first erect like a man, then poses upon all fours at the edge, +trying to look underneath into the doorway, and remains in this position. +A glimpse also is caught of the _Swine-maiden_, a tall, gaunt, witch-like +figure robed in gray, trailing behind her a very long cowhide whip. +Appearing suddenly from some place of concealment she passes furtively +and silently, with long strides, across the Left corner and disappears +behind the palace. + + +II + +Interior. The banquet-hall of CIRCE’S palace. A long, low apartment, +clearly but not brilliantly illuminated by torch-wood burning upon +cressets in the rear, Right and Left. The walls and ceiling of the room +are of neutral tint, light shades, but nowhere white; the decorations, of +simple Grecian type. Two wide entrances at the rear afford glimpses of a +back corridor dimly lighted; between these doors a large spinning-wheel +of fantastic pattern stands near the wall. On the Right a curtained +opening leads to the boudoir of CIRCE; and another door is situated +further back on this side. On the Left, directly opposite the boudoir, is +an entrance from an alcove or passage-way communicating with the porch; +in front of it a dais or platform, raised one step higher than the floor +of the apartment. Near another door far back on the Left stands a large +sideboard or buffet showing the usual garniture. Between the boudoir and +the dais, thus centrally placed but a little forward, are two large, +low tables nearly square, standing end to end, but far enough apart to +allow free passage between them, and showing clearly the spinning-wheel +behind. Three tall armchairs or thrones stand, one at the end of the +table on the Left, in front of the dais; another at the opposite end of +the other table, by the entrance of the boudoir; the third at the left +hand of the second throne, behind the table. There are numerous other +small Greek chairs without backs. Each table is spread with a light brown +cloth. Upon the table at the Right are several pieces of plate and a low +spreading vase of flowers near its centre; a flagon and goblets upon the +other table. As the curtain rises the music ceases, but the humming of +the wheel is continued. CIRCE is seen seated upon the throne at the head +of the table by her boudoir. Her slender golden wand is carelessly thrown +upon the table before her. Her black robe she has pushed away from her +shoulders over the back of her chair; but she wears her coronal of pearls +confining massy black hair, with long, light, pearly veil depending from +the diadem behind. Her tunic is of canary-colored silk; she wears crimson +sandals, and a golden serpent bracelet encircles her left wrist. + +PHILINNA, a blonde, of beauty comparable to that of CIRCE herself, but of +the opposite type, in dress and in all other respects forming a contrast +to the Enchantress, stands behind the throne at her mistress’ left hand. + +The place of THERMIA, a nymph of elegant figure and winsome expression, +is behind the table on the Left, near the throne at its head by the dais. + +MYRTO, who has dark hair like CIRCE, but is of small stature and +not marked by especial beauty, sits facing the Enchantress by the +spinning-wheel, which, as she swiftly turns it, gives forth the melodious +hum that fills the air when the curtain rises. + +The predominant color of PHILINNA’S dress is mauve; of THERMIA’S, azure; +of MYRTO’S, dark green. Other nymphs are drest in light gauzy material, +never pure white. All wear Grecian costume. + +_As CIRCE turns toward her with a slight gesture, MYRTO stops the wheel._ + +CIRCE + + Hush, Myrto; prithee stay + Thy busy wheel awhile; I fain would listen + To the mere silence—if that be silence, when + Naught save the light-wing’d evening zephyr breathes + His soft sea-voices through the piny boughs + And the broad vine-leaf tinkles at the porch. + No footfalls patter now; our thirsty questioners, + After the sunset shadow falls, come not. + Truly ’twere vain, save by the day’s bright beam, + To seek my mansion on this bowery summit + Through tangled briery paths and copse-wood dim— + For the first time. + +PHILINNA + + Thou knowest well, dear lady, + No second coming, save in four-footed guise, + Thy hand vouchsafes them. + +CIRCE + + Ay, not twice the cup + For the same drinker need we pour.—And, Myrto, + Remembered’st thou to cull the herbs I named, + Wolf’s-bane and hemlock and the rest? + +MYRTO + + Yes, lady. + +CIRCE + + And stored and sorted all? + +MYRTO + + By the full moon + Each kind I pluck’d; then, crosswise laid, I dried them + On the black adder-stone what hour no cloud + The noonday welkin streak’d. + +CIRCE + + ’Tis well. Right soon + I shall bruise more and brew their potions. + [_After a brief pause_] Ah! + Myrto; hast thou aught seen this season yet + Of _moly_ plant? + +MYRTO + + No sprig, since we dug forth + Those three and to their root put fire. + +PHILINNA + + O Circe, + What mortal can know moly? or, if found, + Might guess that straightening salutary force + Which its pale blossom suckles? + +CIRCE + + Little indeed + Know they or seem to reck, who find my door, + By the four winds or vague desire impell’d. + Not of the herbs alone, wherewith I work + Transforming magic, and of their antidotes + Is saving knowledge to human sense denied; + But the mere man in equal measure lacks + Perception of all that inner occult domain + Which on my mystic vision rises clear + And blends harmonious with material scenes. + Therefore, what mortals know I know more surely, + Crowning their wisdom with profounder lore. + How oft do they who come, while at this board + They swill and gloat, ere yet the damning cup + I proffer, boast large deeds and prate of what + They call _experience_—in the same breath imploring + Guidance, which I with gracious hand might lend, + Seem’d they but worthy. [_PHILINNA nods assent._] + +THERMIA + + Stands some one, Circe, + At the porch door. + +CIRCE + + Throw open; no mortal visitor + Descends so deftly on us. + +[_The door at the Left is opened by THERMIA, showing a golden-gleaming +light in the passage-way behind it. Immediately MERCURY enters, standing +as he first speaks upon the dais. His winged serpent-twined wand is +brilliant with inlaid mother-of-pearl. Dewdrops glisten upon the wings +of his cap and sandals. The mutual demeanor of MERCURY and CIRCE is +friendly, but not familiar. Neither makes show of deference toward the +other. MERCURY does not remove his cap. He takes no notice whatever of +the nymphs._] + +MERCURY + + All-potent Circe, + Hail! + +CIRCE + + Hail to thee, sir messenger! Be welcome; + Tarry and taste our cheer. + +[_MERCURY seats himself upon the throne at the head of the table near +which he stands. THERMIA takes his wand and lays it upon the table._] + +CIRCE + + The nectar, Thermia. + +[_THERMIA serves him from the sideboard and remains standing in +attendance._] + + Bring’st from the Olympian conclave, Mercury, + Tidings to us? + +MERCURY + + Nay, nay; I do but pause + On my mid-errand’s flight a restful moment + At thy fair island-dome. Weary sometime + Falls even the airy stride of winged feet, + When at a stern omnipotent behest + They spurn the mountain’s serried brow, plunge down, + Skimming innumerable waves, and ride + From land to land the brindled ocean’s back. + But, Mistress Circe, this enchanted isle, + Topp’d by thy mansion, doth like a stepping-stone + Betwixt the shores of dawn and vesper lie, + At the convergent centre of all streams. + What roving bark shall miss it? + +CIRCE + + Sooner or later + ’Tis true each wanderer this way passes; nor, + Our gate once spied and hospitable song + Heard trilling, turns he back. + +MERCURY + + I am reminded, + Whereof I once made mention, again to speak. + Fail not to pour thy strongest draught, fair Circe, + When sage _Ulysses_ heeds the languorous strain. + +CIRCE + + So said’st thou; I recall it. And some potions + Do stronger flow an hundred-fold than others. + +MERCURY + + Even so one human counsel another o’er-tops + By infinite measure.—But ’tis time to speed + And set a finish on this world-spanning errand. + +[_THERMIA hands MERCURY his wand as he rises from the throne and steps +upon the dais._] + + Now for the star-strewn roadways of the sky, + By the dun cloud-edge, where fork’d lightnings fly. + Farewell! + +CIRCE + + Farewell, sir messenger! [_Exit MERCURY._] + +PHILINNA + + [_After a pause_] Dear lady Circe, + Wherefore for us at eve dost thou ne’er lift + Thy voice in sweetest song, like that whose spell + Binds the doom’d callers at the moaning porch? + So might we taste the charm and spare the bane. + +CIRCE + + O sit, Philinna, and mark you! + +[_PHILINNA seats herself in the throne near CIRCE. At the same time +THERMIA takes her seat upon one of the chairs at the other table, resting +her left arm on the table._] + +CIRCE + + ’Tis not at will those tuneful notes upwelling + Burst from this bosom’s prison, when once the joy + Of fierce enslaving mastery sets them free. + I see not his approach who draweth nigh, + Like the limed bird in cruel toils to stick, + And whom the poison’d chalice straight transforms + To brutal shape:—I do not see them come; + But by a sudden thrill inspired to sing, + With a strange consciousness of quicken’d power, + Then _know_ I, and need not look.—Hath e’er one song + Fail’d of response, Philinna? + +THERMIA + + Not one; O, never! + +MYRTO + + How could it otherwise befall? + +CIRCE + + There be + Others in whom by native hap are planted + Some powers of vulgar sorcery: whom it profits + On magic wheel to lash the skewer’d wryneck; + Who their unlovely droning measures vaunt + To burst the clammy serpent in the mead, + Or from her seat pull down the horned moon. + But to their sordid craft my arts compare + As sunbeams to a sputtering pitchy torch. + When _we_ the human prowler quell and tame, + We work illumination! + +PHILINNA + + Yet sometimes + They shine with princely mien. Even as Mercury + In face and stature were those two comely youths + Thou once didst change to wolves. + +CIRCE + + ’Twas their true shape! + The godlike figure hath to mankind been lent, + Which they abuse to cloak an inner core + Of bestial motive. Therefore it is to scatter + Light over darkness, when my cunning drugs + Make the shell match the kernel. No longer then, + Once the true emblem on his visage stamp’d, + Doth the pretender with mock daring flourish: + Unmask’d, he slinks and cowers.—The most, indeed, + Are of mere swinish habit; and for them + The pointed snout suffices and rough hide. + But some—[_With mock seriousness_] Thou dream’st not, sweet Philinna, + How cruelly those same youths, but for my spell, + Had rent us both! + +MYRTO + + [_Gravely_] Ay, true; didst thou not mark, + Philinna, what hungry looks they bent upon + The lady Circe, even while they drank? ’Twas not + The fragrant wine-cup drew them, but o’er its rim + Her neck they scann’d and watch’d the hand and arm + That reach’d the potion. So had they gazed on thee, + If Circe sat not by. + +PHILINNA + + Ah, Myrto; how + Could I the right herb choose and guide the beaker? + Or wield the magic wand! + +THERMIA + + [_Holding up her hands_] O simple, simple! + +CIRCE + + [_Warmly_] Thy beauty and my love for thee, Philinna, + Are of a piece; both do transcend the limit + Of usual quality. For, without thee, I + Should seem to hover in a stale vacant world; + Whilst thou, arm’d with no wand or secret drug, + Unconscious and unskill’d, canst oft divert + The most admiring, ardent, rapt regards + Away from the famed Circe—deem’d forsooth + To win by her sheer woman’s charm not less + Than by shrewd arts. It is perchance the reason + Why thou art dear, because no studied guile + Can in thy breast find lodgement. Oft we crave + That in a friend which our own temper lacks; + And the two mingle to a more perfect being + Than either by itself. + +[_Laying her left hand upon PHILINNA’S right arm_] + + ’Tis pure simplicity + Framed as a smiling goddess at my elbow. + +MYRTO + + [_Gravely_] Dear lady Circe, may the gods preserve her, + Shouldst thou in turn e’er fail at her right hand + To sit with guardian thoughts. + +THERMIA + + Nay, Myrto! + Stand we not all in like need of that shelter + And sweet assurement which no other hand + Than Circe’s can dispense? ’Tis the good spell + Her bright superior spirit weaves round us, lends + Fragrance and bloom to our sequester’d lives. + What, but for that enrichment, would import + Fair skies and shady bowers?—But these mock dangers + Are but the flounce and garnish of our pastime. + Your mighty men I find more vain than valiant. + Didst thou fear Mikkos, Myrto, in his former, + Native habiliment? + +MYRTO + + [_Laughing_] O Thermia, he was terrible! + +THERMIA + + And that sleek scrivener, who serves now as one + Of our gate leopards—was it a peril when he, + Before his lips touch’d the transforming potion, + Offer’d me marriage? + +PHILINNA + + But what _is_ marriage, Thermia? + +THERMIA + + It is as if a clever craftsman built + A cage round Circe and yourself, then lock’d + Its door upon you both and flung the key + Under the fountain. + +PHILINNA + +[_Springing from her chair and drawing back behind it_] + + Holy Diana! + I should break out and fly like Circe’s peacock + Into the beech-tree by the spring. + +CIRCE + + [_Laughing_] O children, children! + How will ye all most learnedly discourse, + Where ye know least? There lurks indeed small peril + To your fair persons, but the danger hits + Your unsophisticated silly souls. + Some men there be, whose fervid, flattering words + Would fluster and bedazzle you, till all + This tranquil sweet companionship should vanish, + As the light puffy thistle-down dispell’d, + Leaving a weary lone unrest behind it. + It is my swift preventing magic catches + And tangles their approach. We are too quick + For them; nor shall they soon outspeed us.—Yet + My brother, the great magician, told me once, + That if a drug e’er fail’d me and work’d not + For any cause its proper due effects, + Then we stood liable to some counter-spell + Of similar assignment. And he cited + My cousin Medea’s strange unhappy story. + [_To PHILINNA, playfully_] So; + When the poor Circe faints, Philinna, thou + Wouldst fly off and desert her? + +PHILINNA + + O no! not + Without the cage. + +CIRCE + + [_Laughing_] No; I am sure + Whate’er befalls, Philinna will be faithful. + +THERMIA + + [_Seriously_] She will indeed, my lady! + +CIRCE + + Of faith and love there is no dearth among us, + Though scant occasion offer which might put + A true friend’s temper to the test. For here + The spirit of petty jangling sits aloof + And common pastime smooths the tripping hours. + Its spice is in the hazard. It were indeed + A dull domain on Circe’s isle, flow’d not + The petulant human throng up to our door. + For fail’d we to suppress them, we ourselves + Might share that wearisome slow life which men + Owe to their fleeting, vain, unsteady loves. + O verily they should thank us! + +[_CIRCE leans back in her chair, playing with the wand that lies on the +table. Then straightening up and looking across the room she claps her +hands twice. Directly the lute-girl THRATTIS enters at the Left corner. +She stands leaning against the sideboard and strikes chords upon her +instrument as prelude._] + +MYRTO + + O Circe, may Mikkos dance to-night? + +CIRCE + + Yes, child.—Poor Mikkos! His dancing days were over + When first he sought us and became our patient. + Now they begin anew. + +[_She signs to THRATTIS, who begins a dancing tune. Other music is heard +in accord with the lute. PHILINNA and THERMIA dance, not as partners, +but singly, with Grecian or Turkish movement, passing round alternately +between the tables and in front and behind them. CIRCE leans back and +looks on with evident pleasure, beating time informally with her wand. +Immediately when the dancing begins, MYRTO runs out at the Right centre +for_ Mikkos; _but at the same time_ Mikkos _darts in at the Left centre, +drops into MYRTO’S seat, and begins to turn her wheel. The ape wears a +handsome collar with about four feet of light brass chain hanging from +it. MYRTO follows laughing, seizes the chain, and pulling_ Mikkos _to his +feet the girl and the ape dance, confining themselves to the back part +of the room. MYRTO’S dancing is similar to that of the other two nymphs, +except that she does not display the same arm movements_. Mikkos _dances +only as an ordinary trained simian might succeed in doing. Next, GRAEA +the swine-maiden enters at the Right centre and joins in the performance. +Her dancing, which she confines to the corner of the room opposite +THRATTIS, consists in snaky, gyratory movements, stooping and with long +steps trailing her great whip slowly in circles upon the floor.—Presently +CIRCE, drawing her black robe over her shoulders, still holding the wand, +rises from her throne. The music ceases. THRATTIS_, Mikkos, _and GRAEA +disappear, and the three nymphs come to a standstill at about their usual +places in the room._] + +CIRCE + +[_To her nymphs_] + + Thus merry our lives, through the whole endless round + Of blithe days and the placid restful nights + That top their radiance. How ye are blest, forsooth + Ye cannot know, because that bliss transcends + All ken and inquisition. It is some part + Of the vast natural world instill’d and moulded + In your fair forms divine, whereto small fleck + Of human taint hath fallen; but an ethereal + Kinship of cloud and fountain and wild wood + Thrills the translucent ichor in your veins. + O sweet immortal sisterhood! + +THERMIA + + A mighty willow guards the meadow’s brink, + Where daisies shine and finches pause to drink: + Each year its lissome branches droop anew, + And on the straightest, smoothest shoot I grew. + +MYRTO + + Deep in the forest shade black water ran: + Beneath its tide my babyhood began; + And while for strength these tiny knees did lack, + A bullfrog bore me on his bright green back. + +PHILINNA + + Down a sheer sunny cliff wild waters whirl + In tinted gleams of amethyst and pearl: + And where that dangling riband dots the sky, + From one soft gauzy filament sprang I. + +[_The curtains of CIRCE’S bower are drawn away, revealing some part of +its interior and a nymph standing on either side. CIRCE moves slowly +backward to the bower entrance; and her three nymphs move backward toward +the several exits._] + +CIRCE + + [_To the audience_] There is a sleep that hath no need of dreams: + When of each waking hour the passage seems + A bird-flight under lovelier skies than those + Which dreamland fancy to the slumberer shows. + +[_The music of CIRCE’S song is again heard, and the drop-curtain falls +while all are just disappearing. PHILINNA goes out at Right 2; THERMIA at +Left 2; MYRTO at Left centre._] + + +III + +A camp by the seashore just before sunrise. The ground rises at the back +and Right, rough with shrubbery and rocks. A galley of antique build has +been drawn upon the sand crosswise at the Left and there are glimpses of +the sea on this side. The mast has been unstepped and a few long oars +lean against the side of the vessel. There are other signs of a recent +disembarcation. Articles of nautical and warlike use lie on the ground +or hang upon bushes and rocks; wine-jars, cups, plates, etc. have been +deposited. The forms of a numerous company of men are seen sleeping on +the ground, wrapped in their blankets, here and there near the ship.—In +the foreground at the Right centre a fire of small sticks is beginning +to burn under tripod and kettle. THERON, the cook, is seen seated on the +ground near the fire, washing strips of meat for roasting. From the low +branch of a tree near him hangs the well stripped carcass of a deer, the +hide and the head bearing large antlers in full view near by. ELPENOR, +the cook’s helper, is at work trying to make the fire burn. + +THERON + + Scratch together another stick or two of wood, youngster. + +[_Enter GLAUCUS at Right with a jar of water which he sets down near +THERON._] + + That will do for water, Glauc. Take a hand now and help the lad + blow the fire a bit. + +GLAUCUS + + So I will, though I be a trifle blown myself, tramping up and + down to that spring. + +THERON + + That’s where the commander pinked the deer yesterday, eh? + +GLAUCUS + + Ay, ay; the old man hasn’t forgotten how to let slip an arrow + since we became water-dogs, for certain. + +THERON + + ’Twas a crack piece of venison he fetched in and no mistake! + There’s a strip or two left for breakfast; but I reckon we’ll + have to make a soup of the hide for dinner—that is if other + game doesn’t turn up. [_He lays pieces of meat spitted over the + coals._] + +GLAUCUS + + The soup’ll do them. They took solid meat enough aboard + yesterday to last for a week’s voyage. + +ELPENOR + + When I saw them eating, it made me think of father feeding the + hogs up in Cephallenia. + +GLAUCUS + + They’re grunting yet. Just hear the beggars snore! And we + turned in before sunset too. + +THERON + + The Pramnian’s responsible for that: we tapped four jars. It’s + the same as keeled over that beastly hulk of a Cyclops. + +ELPENOR + + The commander took a mighty round swig himself; I saw him. + +GLAUCUS + + Trust him for keeping his head level. Besides, he can carry + more of the rosy than any three of us. + +THERON + + Pass over those barley spats, boy—ah! you’ve got them too wet, + you monkey.—Say, Glauc, how would you like to see such a thing + as a woman again, eh? [_THERON grins and nudges GLAUCUS’ knee + with his elbow._] + +GLAUCUS + + Well, you’re right; it is a long time since. + +ELPENOR + + Wasn’t that a woman you saw at the last landing-place?—there + where they smashed all the ships we had but this one. + +THERON + + What!—the giant’s daughter? Bless you, boy, that was a waddling + mountain, not a woman! + +GLAUCUS + + You might throw your arms round her waist twice, Elpy, and + never touch the tips of your fingers. + +THERON + + By the powers, she _was_ a hogshead to tackle; ha, ha! + +GLAUCUS + + If there be female inhabitants of this prickly country, it’s to + be hoped they’re not built after that pattern. But everything + here wears horns, so far. [_He taps the antlers of the stag._] + +THERON + + Well, we’re nigh about ready. Set those plates round in just + a little order. Call ’em up, Elp! Take my knife here and + hammer on that shield hanging by the tree. The sun’ll be on us + shortly. One more jar of water, Glaucus. [_Exit GLAUCUS._] + +ELPENOR + + [_Pounding on the metallic shield_] Ding, dong! Cling, clang! + Breakfast! Get up! Get up! Breakfast! Ding, dong! Cling, clang! + +[_The men rise one after another from their beds on the ground and adjust +their garments, which look stained and weather-worn. GLAUCUS re-enters +and pours water into several basins for the men to wash their hands. They +gradually find seats on the ground near the fire and begin to eat, the +cook and his assistant serving them informally. The conversation begins +while they are dressing and getting ready, before they sit._] + +PHORBAS + + [_Looking around him suspiciously_] I wonder on which side the + sun rises in this blessed country. + +PHILEMON + + On the east side, maybe; leastwise it ought to come up opposite + to where it went down yesterday. + +PHORBAS + + Well, who remembers where that was? Split me if I do! + +GLAUCUS + + Avast there! the sun’ll peep over in a jiffy—by the spring + yonder. [_He turns his thumb backward to the Right._] + +PHORBAS + + All the same we don’t any of us know where we are. + +THERON + + We’re supposed to be at the breakfast table now, lads. Fall to + if you’ve got any appetite left over from yesterday! + +XENIAS + + We’ve got more appetite left over than you have chops, cook. + +THERON + + Ay, every chop’s a sparerib this morning—except a few choice + cuts here for the commander and the mate. They’re done now. + +[_He takes the meat from the fire into a platter._] + + Here, young man; take ’em over to him round the other side of + the ship. + +ELPENOR + + [_As he goes out_] We’re going to have soup for dinner. [_He + disappears behind the vessel._] + +PHILEMON + + Look here, Theron; did you put the charcoal in these barley + cakes before baking or after? + +GLAUCUS + + Pooh, pooh! Never mind the grit, man; it’s an aid to digestion. + We’re lucky enough to have groats aboard, anyway. + +PHORBAS + + We’re lucky to be alive! By Apollo, how I shiver when I think + of that Æolian duffer and the cursed wind-bags he palmed off on + us! + +XENIAS + + ’Twas worse than a hurricane on the wrong quarter when _they_ + blew up—took us straight back to the old boy himself. + +PHILEMON + + He _was_ a windy humbug! You’d have thought, to hear him talk, + we’d be back home in Ithaca inside of twenty-four hours. + +PHORBAS + + And now we’re only _here_! Another cannibal island, I’ll bet my + pile! Ye gods! I wouldn’t go up ten rods from the shore for a + gold mine. + +THERON + + Well, the commander took a little walk yesterday and nobody ate + _him_ up. He didn’t make much of a report as to what he saw; + but I’ve a notion he’ll say something about it to-day. + +GLAUCUS + + Sh—here he comes now! Mind your taps, men! + +[_Enter ULYSSES and EURYLOCHUS at the Left from behind the ship. The +men finishing their meal salute without rising and arrange themselves +comfortably and informally on the ground in a sort of circle looking +toward ULYSSES in the centre. ELPENOR re-enters behind the two and sits +down with the others. EURYLOCHUS also seats himself upon the ground at +the right hand of ULYSSES. In appearance the mate is distinguished from +the crew mainly by wearing fresher and less weather-beaten garments. +ULYSSES wears a helmet and carries his sword and baldric in his hand. He +throws the weapon upon the ground, and as he begins to speak takes off +his helmet, holding it swinging by its strap in his left hand while he +stands and speaks. The rays of the rising sun now strike over the bank +behind him._] + +ULYSSES + + Good morrow, men! How sped the night? + +SEVERAL VOICES + + O, hearty, hearty! + +EURYLOCHUS + + They had a bout to sleep on, you remember, sir. + +ULYSSES + + That was high festival—too rare a hap! + ’Twas sipping of the rest ye needed sore; + But now there’s toil in prospect. + +PHILEMON + + We thought you might tell us, sir, what the prospect showed + when you stepped out yesterday and got the deer. + +PHORBAS + + We’re hoping to sail away from here directly. + +ULYSSES + + Of sail and oar appears an end not yet, + Brave comrades,—ye sad fortune-favor’d few, + Poor relic of that once gallant troop which sat + High on three-hundred thwarts; when each proud keel, + Cleaving a homeward furrow, swept gaily past + Familiar beacons; and from known crag and scaur + Triumphal friendly greetings echoed loud, + That drop like honey in victorious ears. + Not long their cadence linger’d; but ye know + What flouts of whirlwind and black sulphurous cloud, + Wreck-witness’d warrants of Neptunian ire, + Whelm’d some with death and the scant remnant usher’d + Into these strange, uncanny, nameless seas. + And now from wave to wave your weary arms + Drive the lone pinnace, this frail shell of hope, + With mingled dread and homesick yearning freighted. + +[_As ULYSSES pauses, some of the men, all of whom are looking to him +intently, shake their heads or rock themselves to and fro, and faint +groans are heard._] + + But cheer, brave shipmates; cheer! + Not boundless stretch these watery wastes, but still + Shines somewhere a vine-clad slope and pebbly cove, + The fair home-harbor pictured in your dreams. + +[_The men give utterance to loud sighs and groans._] + + Somewhere it sparkles yet; but whether a ray + Of yonder climbing sun illumed its borders + Ere he warm’d us, or by the western rim + Of darkling eve our cherish’d haven lies, + We know not. In ourselves, thus mazed and wilder’d + By circular driftings and strange gruesome sights, + There springs no source of judgment, whence to draw + Some pilotage and index of true course. + Yet on these wild inhospitable shores + Beings we have encounter’d—and not all + Of baleful or ungracious mood—who hold + Rare store of guiding knowledge.—Should we not + Press with glad feet even now our native soil, + If ye, unhappy men, had spared to loose + The contrary winds great Æolus did tie down + To assure our safety? + +[_The men manifest great perturbation; some gesticulating and shaking +their heads; others rising to their knees and striking themselves. +Mutterings and faint outcries escape them._] + +EURYLOCHUS + + [_Timidly; rising to his feet_] + You failed to tell them, sir, what was in the bags. + +ULYSSES + + [_Sternly_] I fail’d first to remember + What slender stock of prudence or just restraint + Your wits preserve. So, while I slept, ye wrought + Mischief beyond repair. It was thy watch, + Eurylochus; dost recall it? + +EURYLOCHUS + + Yes, sir, it was my company on duty then. + +ULYSSES + + Draw off thy men; let them assemble apart. + +[_At a sign from EURYLOCHUS men to the number of one-half the crew arise +and group themselves around him on the Right. The rest remain seated +nearer ULYSSES. EURYLOCHUS’ company includes GLAUCUS, THERON, ELPENOR, +and PHORBAS._] + +ULYSSES + + [_To all as before_] I repeat, then, + There dwell in these weird regions spirits—some few, + Mighty yet not malevolent, and endued + With sapient skill and far discernment. Nor + Save by experience of them may we hope + To win the instructions craved. Here yesterday + From the bare peak whereto I clomb, the view + Of a round isle lay open; and at the point + Where these upwinding brambly folds converge + I saw faint-coiling smoke-wreaths, the sure sign + Of dwellers. + +[_All of the men are visibly disturbed and give increased and anxious +attention._] + + It behooves us now to prove + Their case and disposition. But whether it suits + Rather that I conduct my party thither + For the grave query, or Eurylochus his, + Allotment shall decide. + +[_Sensation among his hearers_] + + Ofttimes the hand + Of Fortune guides a venturous essay fitter + Than human arbitration. Mark, then, Eurylochus, + My lot and thine. + +[_EURYLOCHUS with assistance from others finds upon the beach two small +flat stones. These he scratches with his dagger, marking one with a V, +the other with an E._] + + Shake now the sherds, good Glaucus. + +[_As he speaks ULYSSES passes the helmet which he has hitherto held in +his left hand to GLAUCUS. The two lots are thrown into the helmet; and +GLAUCUS, standing in an open space and watched with intense expectation +by all present, shakes it violently with a circular movement until one +of the lots flies out and falls to the ground. The men strain their eyes +toward the stone as it is picked up by GLAUCUS._] + +ULYSSES + + Well, what decision? + +GLAUCUS + + [_Holding up the stone_] It’s Eurylochus, sir, his mark. + +[_The announcement produces various effects upon the men. The party of +ULYSSES, seated upon the ground, strive not to show too plainly their +sense of relief; while the standing company of EURYLOCHUS are more openly +affected. PHORBAS in particular is in a highly nervous state, glancing +now toward the hill, now toward the water. A few other timid ones in the +same party demean themselves similarly._] + +ULYSSES + + [_To EURYLOCHUS_] Enough; make ready directly, and proceed with + reasonable haste. + +[_The mate’s company move apart and make preparations, helped to some +extent by the others. There is lively motion in both groups. They gather +up things needful for an expedition, spears, staves, water-flasks, etc. +THERON, a portly figure, does not change his cook’s garb, but buckles on +a very broad belt with hanging straps, and whets his butcher’s cleaver +with a stone. Shortly they are ready to start._] + +EURYLOCHUS + + My mission is, sir——? + +ULYSSES + + To announce, if those thou haply find’st wear not + Sinister aspect, our good-will and greeting; + And the right winds for homeward voyage inquire. + +EURYLOCHUS + + Very well, sir.—Fall in, lads! + +[_EURYLOCHUS’ followers draw closer to their leader, apart from the +others. All are serious. Individuals take leave of one another here and +there with hand-shaking, etc._] + +ULYSSES + + The sign show’d near the summit. Your ascent, + Thorny perchance and steep, will prove not long; + The questioning, easy. + +XENIAS + + [_Seriously_] Have an eye to Theron, Glaucus; let him not be + too forward with that meat-knife of his! + +ELPENOR + + [_Taking hold of a strap at THERON’S belt_] I shall hold him + back. + +ULYSSES + + Full oft a forward mood and hardy daring + Is of prime merit; circumstance will teach + How far to temper zeal with slow discretion. + Farewell! + +EURYLOCHUS + + Farewell, sir!—Forward, men! + +SEVERAL VOICES ON BOTH SIDES + + Farewell! adieu! luck, luck! + +[_The mate’s company go out at the Right and upward. EURYLOCHUS himself +is abreast of the foremost on their left. The vanguard consists of +GLAUCUS, THERON (cleaver in hand), and ELPENOR (a fragile, attenuated +figure) behind the cook, holding at his belt. PHORBAS and other timid +ones bring up the rear. The drop-curtain falls as they move off while the +rest watch them and wave their hands to them._] + + +IV + +The same as Scene I. The front of CIRCE’S palace. No music or other sound +is heard when the curtain rises. The fountain plays as before.—Enter at +the Right by the main gateway EURYLOCHUS and his party, the men grouped +similarly as at the close of the last scene, but in the reverse order. +In advance are PHORBAS and the other timid ones; they enter hurriedly, +casting glances of alarm behind them. The rest of the party immediately +follow; EURYLOCHUS, GLAUCUS, and THERON last. ELPENOR is in front of +THERON, who pushes him forward. The whole company quickly come to a +standstill in a single close group with considerable space between them +and the steps of the porch. They scan the building and its environs with +looks of wonder, especially fascinated by the fountain with its changing +hues.—EURYLOCHUS stands apart from the rest, his demeanor indicating +hesitation and perplexity. While the others are talking he walks slowly +to and fro, occasionally pausing and scanning suspiciously the various +features of the scene. + +THERON + + It’s a rum go so far! eh, Glaucus? + +GLAUCUS + + [_Shrugging his shoulders_] Rum’s the word! An outpost of tame + tigers! It beats anything we’ve walked into yet. Cyclops’ cave + wasn’t a circumstance. + +THERON + + I had a notion to crack the skull of that overgrown wolf-cub + when he landed his dirty paws on my shoulders. But he looked + sort o’ gentle like, and besides I thought the old chap who + owns the menagerie might take a miff—whoever _he_ is. + +GLAUCUS + + It’s some retired show-man or prize-fighter, I reckon. + +THERON + + He’s got a blue devil penned up in his fountain, sure! Just + look at that, old man; hock first, and blue vitriol at the tail + end of it! There’s bitters for you with a vengeance!—Blast + me, but I’m thirsty as an oyster, whacking a way up through + that pesky brush-wood! If there’s a chance to wet our whistles + inside the house it’ll be worth the dog-show twice over. + +PHORBAS + + I tell you it’ll pay to be cautious about the inside. Ugh! it + did make my flesh creep, crossing that cordon of wild-cats! + There’s no knowing what we’ll put our foot on if we go farther. + +ELPENOR + + I put my foot on a snake. + +GLAUCUS + + They put an architect to work here that _saw_ snakes, anyhow. + Take a look at those water-spouts, boys! [_Pointing to the + gargoyles_] + +EURYLOCHUS + + [_Approaching the group_] Well, men; what’s the next step? The + commander said go ahead if the people weren’t unfriendly. The + wild beasts out there were friendly enough, you might say; but + there’s an uncanny look to it all. + +THERON + + I vote to go ahead and knock up the owner. If he’s no worse + than his own whelps we can stand it;—especially if he stands + for the drinks. + +GLAUCUS + + There’s no two-legged craft within hail outside—nothing but + four-footed gentry out here. + +EURYLOCHUS + + We might mount the stairs, then, cautiously, and see how + things look under the doorway yonder. [_Shaking his head_] But + I fear enchantment. + +[_As they approach the steps the hum of the spinning-wheel begins to be +heard. The men pause again, and look at each other a moment in silence. +EURYLOCHUS starts at the sound of the wheel, his features betraying +heightened anxiety._] + +THERON + + [_Slapping GLAUCUS on the shoulder_] God-a-mercy, it’s + womankind after all, Glauc! Come on! Ha, ha! + +ELPENOR + + Maybe it’s a mountain. + +[_They all move toward the steps again. THERON, with ELPENOR holding to +his belt, and GLAUCUS are now in advance; EURYLOCHUS is at one side; +PHORBAS and others are behind. As the first man sets foot on the steps +the wheel stops humming and faint music strikes up as prelude to CIRCE’S +song. Immediately a clear soprano voice is heard behind the scenes +singing the air, the chorus of the song being performed by a quartette +of women’s voices. The hearers are sensibly affected, showing their +feelings by appropriate pantomime as they alternately pause and mount +slowly higher and higher upon the stairs. EURYLOCHUS alone exhibits +symptoms of horror and repulsion; the others seem to be charmed and lured +on by the song. All of them except the leader are gathered together upon +the porch close to the doorway when the last stanza is sung._] + +THE SONG OF CIRCE + + Ah, who!—ah, who! + Who would dwell longer there _bis_ + In a rude world of care, + Of toil and care! + They only live, who hear + My song and taste my cheer— + Who my life share. _bis_ + Ah, who!—ah, who + Would toil and tarry there! + + (_Chorus_) + + They only live, who hear + Our song and taste our cheer— + Who our life share. _bis_ + Ah, who!—ah, who + Would toil and tarry there! + + II + + I know—I know + Where bubbling waters flow; + Where shadowy willows sway + And wood nymphs hide and play + In my round isle. + I know which clustering vine + Spirts out the sweetest wine. + Who would not while + Swift hours away! + Ah, who!—ah, who! + In my round bowery isle! + + (_Chorus_) + + We know—we know which vine + Spirts out the sweetest wine. + Who would not while + Swift hours away! + Ah, who!—ah, who! + In our round bowery isle! + + III + + I know—I know + What makes the wood-dove moan _bis_ + In the dark coppice lone; + I know the cure. + When floats the owlet’s cry, + Her quavering lullaby, + Who!—ah, who! + While night winds sigh, + Who would not quaff the cure! + Ah, who!—ah, who! + + (_Chorus_) + + We know, we know the cure. + When floats the owlet’s cry, + Her quavering lullaby, + Who!—ah, who! + While night winds sigh, + Who would not quaff the cure! + Ah, who!—ah, who! + +GLAUCUS + + [_Loudly, in a musical tone_] Hola!—hola! + +[_Directly upon the utterance of this call the low, shaded recess of +the doorway, which was dark before, grows bright with the same golden +radiance that had shone intermittently upon the fountain; and the throng +of visitors, excepting their leader, press swiftly forward and disappear +through the opening. Again immediately the light in the doorway changes +to blue, with electrical sparks. EURYLOCHUS, who is directing his gaze +toward the opening, shrinks back in alarm; and at the same moment the +spray of the fountain becomes blue and remains of that color. Descending +to a lower stair EURYLOCHUS peers under the doorway, listening intently. +No sound is heard. Then, his attention being drawn to the sombre hue +of the fountain, while he is looking away from the entrance, a large +serpent lets down its coils from the roof of the porch; and as the man +turns again toward the entrance he is confronted with its wide-open jaws, +forked tongue, and glittering eyes. As he retreats precipitately from +the stairs the serpent draws itself up out of sight. EURYLOCHUS stops +once more in the foreground to watch and listen for some sign of his +men within the palace; but as he turns toward the building, the head of +a wolf with glowing eyes is protruded from a clump of shrubbery. Upon +encountering this final apparition he flees in consternation from the +scene._] + + +V + +The Seashore again. The curtain rising discovers the men left behind at +the camp sitting irregularly grouped near the fire-place. ULYSSES stands +apart from them by the ship, busied in inspecting his arms, the spear, +bow, and sword, which hang near or lean against the vessel. When he +unsheathes and sheathes the sword to examine it while his men are talking +it is seen to have a brightly polished, rather broad, but not heavy +blade. Most of the time he stands with face turned toward the water, his +back to the Right. + +FIRST SAILOR + + Look here, lads; we can’t wait till noon for a bite! The + commander ordered breakfast so rattling early this morning I’ve + got a brand-new appetite already. + +XENIAS + + Well, take a nibble on that pile of Theron’s charcoal cakes + left over. They need a good appetite to make ’em slip down. + +FIRST SAILOR + + Maybe the mate or Glaucus’ll fetch in another stag or a wild + goat on their way back. + +SECOND SAILOR + + A wild goose more like; I wonder how far they’ve got anyway. + +PHILEMON + + They ought to turn up before noon. The commander said they + might get up there and return in a couple of hours, as he + judged—that is, if they scratched gravel lively. + +XENIAS + + They’ve got Theron with ’em, remember; he can’t pass between + two trees when they grow _too_ near together. + +FIRST SAILOR + + No, but he can clear a path with his cleaver for two men—him + and Elpy spindle-shanks. + +SECOND SAILOR + + [_In undertone_] By the way, the commander’s pretty busy over + there with his own cutlery. I wonder what he expects next. + +PHILEMON + + He expects to be _ready_, whatever comes. You don’t catch him + napping. Besides, who wants a speck of rust on a hanger like + that? The war’s an old story now; and this salt air’s the + devil’s own invention to make a blade stick to the scabbard. + +XENIAS + + ’Twas a pity he couldn’t draw it on that Cyclops hog. But if + we’d let the blood out of him it wouldn’t have let us out of + his pesky cave with a giant’s tomb-stone clapped up to the + door!—[_Whistling low as he looks up. XENIAS sits facing the + Right._] Whew!—What’s in the wind now? + +[_All turn quickly toward the point indicated by the speaker, not +excepting ULYSSES, whose attention has been attracted by the whistle. At +the Right from above EURYLOCHUS enters slowly and hesitatingly, looking +pale and haggard, his clothing torn and disordered by the brambles. +Observing that all eyes are directed upon him he stops as if afraid to +approach the company. Most of the men rise to their feet and move toward +him._] + +SEVERAL VOICES + + Hi! hi!—what’s the good word?—News, news? Where’s Glauc? + [_EURYLOCHUS responds only with deprecatory gestures._] + +ULYSSES + + What? ho, Eurylochus! Hast tidings? Why alone? + + What ails thee, mate? Speak out; tell us thy story! + +[_With gestures of dismay EURYLOCHUS moves nearer to ULYSSES, but does +not speak. ULYSSES regards him with an expression of deep concern. The +other men gather more closely round the pair._] + +XENIAS + + Wake up, man! What’s in your eye? We’re here to help; cheer up! + +PHILEMON + + [_Patting EURYLOCHUS on the shoulder_] Out with it; out with + it!—Go ahead; palaver! + +XENIAS + + Open up, old fellow. _You’re_ not dead, anyway. We’re used to + funerals by this time. [_EURYLOCHUS remains in his despairing + attitude and is still unable to speak._] + +ULYSSES + +[_Severely; taking a step nearer to EURYLOCHUS, while the men fall back +slightly._] + + Eurylochus, I enjoin you and command + To conquer this o’er-mastering mute despair. + Deliver straightway the account we crave + Of your commission and make known why thus + Alone and fraught with visible woe thou comest.— + Where are they? Speak!— + +EURYLOCHUS + +[_With effort; after further hesitation._] + + Noble Ulysses, we did most duly follow + Thy charge and indication. And when with sharp + Stretches of toilsome clambering we drew nigh + This shaggy island’s summit, where the ground + Sloped smoother, as these rude prickly folds gave way + To a tall grove of sombre trees which thrust + Their welcome shadows against the mounting sun,— + There ’twixt the spectral boles our upward glance + Fell on a portly mansion’s shimmering sides. + But first, as we clomb higher, a court-yard wall + Barr’d, though with open portals, our approach. + For at its mouth a glowering throng, Ulysses, + Of pards and grisly wolves sat by; not wild, + But of a tameness stranger and more awful + Than fierce beasts’ native temper—’twas sure sign, + And not the last, of foul enchantment. These + Strove not to tear and rend us, but were fain + Like petted dogs to fawn, wagging long tails + And monstrous paws on lap or shoulders throwing; + While in their eyes sad looks, half human, seem’d + To deprecate and warn. But we press’d on, + Heeding thy charge, Ulysses, to mark well + The human dwellers’ aspect and of them + Inquire, proved they not unbenign or harsh. + Dwellers indeed we saw not; but the whole pile, + As near its door we stood, did reek and rumble + With devilish witchery. Scaly serpents writhed + At every coigne; faces with fiery eyeballs + Peer’d out amid the foliage; and o’er all + Weird flashes leapt of lurid sulphurous flame. + Yet that which most profoundly stirr’d my doubts + And dark suspicions, was the unearthly _song_, + With languorous music mixt, that issued forth + To charm and tempt us with seductive spell. + Myself shrank back when on my ear that strain + Of woman’s guile or witch’s magic struck. + Not so the rest, Ulysses,—our lost comrades; + But the song bound and pull’d them; nor could I + Stem their mad folly. One spoke forth and call’d; + And as the doors swang wider all were swept + Under the hellish gap; which, closing, swallow’d + Like an engulfing whirlpool the doom’d crew. + For though, as the song ceased, I watch’d and waited + Long time for tidings or some sign, none came: + Naught but a dismal silence and increase + Of snaky menace and blue infernal gleams! + +[_Immediately upon the conclusion of EURYLOCHUS’ narrative ULYSSES, who +has listened intently, reaches for his sword near by; takes a quick look +at the blade as he draws it partly out and then pushes it back into the +scabbard; slings the weapon over his shoulder, puts on his helmet, and +then turns to EURYLOCHUS again. The latter exhibits fresh dismay at +seeing ULYSSES thus arm himself. The other men also are visibly affected +by their commander’s movements._] + +ULYSSES + + So then thou knowest the way, Eurylochus: + Lead on forthwith by the same path; show me + The spot where thou didst leave them. + +EURYLOCHUS + +[_Falling at the feet of ULYSSES and clasping his knees_] + + Not thither, great Ulysses! Take me not thither! + Thyself will ne’er return, I know right well. + It is the road to death or to some state + Of hideous, vile bewitchment worse than death. + Thou canst not rescue them! What power hath man + To battle with foul uncanny spirits?—Nay, + This isle is haunted. Let us fly; we are + Thus many left alive. To ship and fly! + +ULYSSES + + [_Scornfully_] Eurylochus, ’tis thy privilege; thou art free + To nurse thy safety, tarrying by the ship. + On _me_ a duty rests; my course lies clear: + My comrades’ fate I go to prove. + +[_EURYLOCHUS retreats and cowers while ULYSSES speaks, at the same time +gradually rising to a standing posture with his face toward the speaker. +He does not join the group of the other men. These have their eyes fixed +on the commander, some of them moving anxiously toward him. With his last +words ULYSSES starts to go out at the Right. EURYLOCHUS turns away and +sits upon a stone near the ship and the water at the Left, covering his +face._] + +PHILEMON + + May we not, sir, accompany you as guard + Or help at hazard? + +ULYSSES + + Nay, good men; remain + And guard the vessel. My errand’s of espial + And wary circumspection: meet for one; + For more, unsuited. I shall not slip. Farewell! + +SEVERAL VOICES + + Farewell! farewell, sir! + +[_The curtain falls as ULYSSES disappears, while the men stand following +his footsteps with their eyes._] + + +VI + +The same as Scene II. CIRCE’S banquet-hall.—As the curtain rises the +party who entered the palace at the close of Scene IV are shown seated +at the table on the Left, while THERMIA and other nymphs serve them with +food and wine. The cups are filled by pouring from tall slender pitchers +of silver, and these in turn by dipping the wine with ladles from the +punch-bowl on the sideboard. The Enchantress and her companions are in +their usual places. MYRTO turns her wheel slowly and intermittently +without noticeable sound. CIRCE, seated as before at the head of the +table on the Right, wears the same dress as in Scene II, but her black +robe is not thrown off. The wand lies upon the table near her right hand, +neither carelessly nor conspicuously placed. The throne at her left +hand, behind which PHILINNA stands, is occupied by _Mikkos_, who wears a +brightly polished collar. + +The guests are all at the table farthest from CIRCE. The throne at its +head, opposite her throne, is occupied by ELPENOR. At his left, near the +corner of the table, sits PHORBAS, partaking freely of the banquet, but +glancing nervously, now toward _Mikkos_ and now toward the door behind +the dais where they had entered. At the left of PHORBAS sit some feasters +with their backs to the audience. On the other side of the table, facing +the audience, are THERON the cook (at ELPENOR’S right) wearing his cap; +GLAUCUS (the farthest in the direction toward _Mikkos_); and other men +between THERON and GLAUCUS. + +It is near the close of the entertainment. Appearances indicate that +the banqueters have begun to feel the effects of the wine that is still +poured freely. They are also partly dazed and partly exhilarated by the +presence of the Enchantress and her elegant nymphs. The symptoms of +intoxication and bewilderment on the part of the men become by degrees +more manifest as the conversation proceeds. GLAUCUS preserves his dignity +rather better than his companions; but he seems fascinated by CIRCE, +to whom he is the nearest in his position at table; and he does not +refrain from drinking copiously, nor show due caution or a disposition +to remember the details of the mission with which EURYLOCHUS had been +entrusted. + +CIRCE + + [_After a pause_] Ye do full justice, strangers and kind guests, + To this our welcome and the cheer we spread. + ’Tis right. Go on; and so with act sincere, + Not by the hollow word, those virtues prove + Which to my bounty I would fain impute. + And truly, until a guest hath quell’d the pangs + Of sharp importunate hunger, it were ungracious + To crave of him accounts or ply his ear + With curious question.—I am well pleased to wait + Upon your silence keeping even pace + With appetite.—Ye have not sat of late, + I judge, at flowing boards. + +ELPENOR + + [_Loudly_] We had roast _deer_ yesterday. + +THERON + + [_Flourishing his fork_] Done to a turn! + +CIRCE + + Ah!—did ye then venture + To hunt and slay the creatures that frequent + My island park? It were no jest to play + The involuntary cannibal! + +[_Some of the men are seen to be startled by this remark._] + + Follow’d perchance + Unusual visions in the wake of the feast? + +PHORBAS + + Yes, yes! my sleep ran ghostly; but I thought + ’Twas a mere nightmare. + +ELPENOR + + I thought I saw a _horse_! + +CIRCE + + Of our four-footed denizens we note + Two sorts: one of original beastly shape; + Another, to which the brutal guise hath fallen + As fit encasement of their human habits. + And these two kinds, one from the other with sure + Discrimination to distinguish, proves + Sometimes not easy. Thus our good _Mikkos_ here + +[_Patting the ape lightly_] + + Was once a philosopher of the ancient sect + Call’d pre-Ionic—in his day the most + Redoubtable of doubters. + +GLAUCUS + + [_Gravely; nodding his head unsteadily_] + Madam, we doubt it not. + +CIRCE + + Fate ordain’d + That to this island he should drift and taste + Our cordials. Whereon he was profoundly struck + With my maid Myrto. + +[_Here MYRTO without looking up sets her wheel a-spinning loudly +for a brief moment, causing the banqueters to turn their eyes in her +direction._] + + From that hour a change + Came o’er him. + +MYRTO + + It was a harmless fancy; + And he is harmless now. + +[_Upon hearing MYRTO’S voice_ Mikkos _without turning toward her begins +to raise himself by his hands upon the arms of the chair, but at a sign +from CIRCE lowers himself to sitting posture._] + +THERON + +[_To CIRCE; pointing with his fork to PHILINNA_] + + But why, madam?—why did he not choose + That young miss there behind him? + +CIRCE + + He was a philosopher, I said. + +THERON + + He was a _pig_!— + +CIRCE + + Ah, by the by, Thermia, didst thou tell Graea + To renovate those sties? + +THERMIA + + I did, my lady. + More swine, she says, have bolted + And to the woods run wild. One sty stands empty. + +CIRCE + + It shall be fill’d erelong. + +PHORBAS + +[_Looking anxiously at a platter before him_] + + Might there be a possible doubt about these spareribs? + +CIRCE + + Not the least; + I have a discriminating cook. + +THERON + + [_Helping himself to more meat_] You can wager + _She_ knows pork when she sees it! + +ELPENOR + + My father feeds hogs too. + +CIRCE + + Thy father, gentle youth, will be to-morrow + One pig the poorer.—But where dwells he pray? + +ELPENOR + + He dwells at home; I left him there. + +THERON + + Lady, the lad forgets; I do much doubt + If his own name he can remember right now. + +CIRCE + + It is an infirmity that ofttimes with wassail + Waxes apace. But haply you, good sir, + Can tell me whence ye came? + +THERON + + O sure, ma’am! we came lately from a cove + Call’d Æolus. + +CIRCE + + Ah, what!—from my great kinsman, + The steward of the winds? + +THERON + + A windy stew + He brew’d for _us_!—Great Juno! _was_ it breezy, Glauc? + +GLAUCUS + + Madam, I am a sailor; but I never + Saw such incessant, damnable contrary winds + In all my voyaging! + +PHORBAS + +[_Rousing himself excitedly_] + + Yes, yes; but who? + Who let ’em out? Who let ’em out? + +[_GLAUCUS looks fiercely at the speaker and THERON extends his fist +threateningly toward him. PHORBAS shrinks away._] + +CIRCE + + But, gentlemen, pray inform me; whither now + Would ye be wafted? From which quarter should + Those breezes blow enabling you to reach + The desired haven? + +THERON + + We don’t know that, because + We don’t know where we are. + +ELPENOR + + We’re _here_ now. + +GLAUCUS + + We’re downright weary o’ pulling + Across head winds! + +CIRCE + + But which of you is leader? + Which one doth stand for steering and shrewd guidance? + +ELPENOR + + He stopp’d outside. + +PHORBAS + + We thought he enter’d with us; but once inside, + We miss’d him. + +CIRCE + + What _he_ hath miss’d he knows not. I shall send + Mikkos to fetch him. + +GLAUCUS + + Our leader, lady, + Is a good careful man, yet over wary + Of women or witchcraft. So soon he caught the strain + Of the song you sang it paralyzed him. + +CIRCE + + Ah! + +GLAUCUS + + Were he here now, he could not look you + Square in the face, as I do. + +[_GLAUCUS is gazing at CIRCE admiringly._] + +ELPENOR + + He might see + That brass snake on her arm. + +GLAUCUS + + He would abhor + The arm worse than the serpent. + +CIRCE + + Is then my arm + So frightful? + +THERON + + The arm’s all right, ma’am; but there’s something wrong + About Eurylochus. + +CIRCE + + So; Eurylochus is your leader? + +GLAUCUS + + Only a bit + Backward about leading, when he scents + A woman in the wind. + +CIRCE + + And he would fear + Us hospitable maidens?—and, we trust, + Of aspect not forbidding. + +THERON + + O, it’s all one + About the aspect. You could tree him, ma’am, + As quick as the giant’s daughter. + +CIRCE + + The giant’s daughter? + +THERON + + Yes, ma’am; we landed lately on a lot + Of bloody cannibals—this big gal first; + And Eurylochus took to a tree. + +ELPENOR + + [_Pointing to PHORBAS_] He climb’d up too. + +CIRCE + + What! does your friend fear women also? + +THERON + + O no, ma’am. Phorb’s a trifle timid like, + Whether it’s a he or she. You see, it’s this way: + Phorb was a-fear’d, because she was so large; + And Eurylochus, because she was a lady. + +CIRCE + + She _was_ a lady then? + +PHORBAS + + She laid out Theron + When he made up to her. + +THERON + + I had half a mind + To make pork chop o’ the bloomin’ hussy!—Ye gods! + This meat-knife here does hang plumb heavy + For an after-dinner appendage. + +[_He detaches the cleaver from his belt and lays it on the table, at the +same time loosening the belt._] + + I don’t want + The dang’d thing dangling at my haunches when + The dancing begins. + +ELPENOR + + When does it begin, Theron? + +THERON + + Split me if I know! There’s a raft more drinks + On the tapis yet. + +CIRCE + + My friends, I shall soon show you + A new dance call’d the four-step. + +SEVERAL VOICES + + Hi, hi! Hip, hip! [_They pound on the table with their cups._] + +THERON + + Ha, ha! The four-step; two-and-two two-step: + That means partners! + +[_He leers again at PHILINNA, drains his cup and waves it toward +her.—Other men seem to pay increased attention to the nymphs serving +them._] + +GLAUCUS + + [_Admiringly, but unsteadily_] Do you dance it, madam, yourself? + +CIRCE + + O no; but Mikkos knows it. + +[_Here the ape slowly raises himself by the hands until all four +extremities rest upon the arms of the chair, remaining a moment or two in +this position before lowering himself._] + +THERON + + Would you mind, ma’am, + Letting that there young miss step over here to take + The place of this one? + +[_He points to PHILINNA and indicates THERMIA behind him with his left +thumb over the shoulder._] + +ELPENOR + + [_Parenthetically_] Don’t take _her_ away! + +CIRCE + + A moment, sir; I have some present need of her. + One choicest cordial I have not yet brought + To your attention. In my island only + The vintage can be stored.—A jar, Philinna; + Here on my table. + +PHILINNA + + Do you mean, my lady, + The wine which for ourselves alone we press? + +CIRCE + + Yes, child; these are no every-day arrivals; go! + +[_PHILINNA goes out at Right 2. The other nymphs present, except MYRTO +and THERMIA, leave the room quietly and unobservedly, closing the Left +central door. THERON’S song begins as PHILINNA disappears. The refrain +and chorus are joined in by all the men except ELPENOR and PHORBAS, who +look at each other and laugh._] + +THERON + +[_Sings; still looking toward the door where PHILINNA went out._] + + It was a stout sailor who cook’d for the crew; + +ALL + + Sing yo, heave yo! + +THERON + + A-shedding salt tears while he season’d the stew. + +ALL + + A-shedding salt tears while he season’d the stew. + Sing yo, heave yo, on the briny! + +THERON + + Salt tears for the sweetheart that jilted him last; + +ALL + + Sing yo, heave yo! + +THERON + + And the onions he peel’d made ’em fall thick and fast. + +ALL + + And the onions he peel’d made ’em fall thick and fast. + Sing yo, heave yo, on the briny! + +CIRCE + + [_To GLAUCUS_] Would _that_ song paralyze your leader, sir? + +GLAUCUS + + The allusion would prick him, madam; depend upon it.— + + [_Turning to THERON_] One more, Thee,—till she’s back with the + bitters. + +THERON + + [_Sings_] One fine morning the pudding-bag busted a flap; + +ALL + + Sing yo, heave yo! + +THERON + + So he boil’d the noon mess in his greasy cook’s cap. + +[_Here THERON takes his cap from his head and lays it over a plate._] + +ALL + + So he boil’d the noon mess in his greasy cook’s cap. + Sing yo, heave yo, on the briny! + +THERON + + “For God’s sake,” cried the captain, “what’s struck the plum-duff?” + +ALL + + Sing yo, heave yo! + +THERON + + “We don’t need hogs’ bristles to flavor the stuff!” + +ALL + + “We don’t need hogs’ bristles to flavor the stuff!” + Sing yo, heave yo, on the briny! + +[_With the last chorus PHILINNA re-enters bearing a punch-bowl of elegant +pattern, smaller than the one on the sideboard at the opposite end of +the room. She places the bowl upon the table before CIRCE, while the men +become silent as they look on._] + +MYRTO + + My lady, may Mikkos have a drop? + +[_At these words the ape begins to draw himself up by the hands again. +CIRCE nods assent to MYRTO._] + +CIRCE + + Philinna! + +[_PHILINNA fills a cup from the bowl and hands it to the ape. She also +sets a small cup of wine before CIRCE._ Mikkos _drains the beaker, +holding it with both hands and throwing his head very far back; and while +the eyes of all the men are directed toward him with amused attention +CIRCE, opening a very small silver casket that hangs at her girdle, takes +a fine powder therefrom and quickly throws it into the bowl. She draws +the wand nearer to her hand._] + +CIRCE + + Thermia! + +[_At the word, THERMIA passes up to CIRCE’S table and she and PHILINNA, +filling pitchers from CIRCE’S bowl, proceed to refill the cups of the +banqueters in regular order, THERMIA from left to right, PHILINNA from +right to left. Then as they meet at the centre both the nymphs retire +together to the extreme Right near CIRCE. Meanwhile the sombre figure of +GRAEA the Swine-maiden is discovered lurking in the corridor behind the +Right central doorway._] + +CIRCE + + [_Raising her cup_] To the health of your backward leader, my + brave guests! + +GLAUCUS + + [_Half-rising; unsteadily_] Out, out! To hostess, hostess! + Here’s to hostess! + +[_All drink; and the effects of the drug straightway become apparent. An +expression of stupefaction and horror passes over the faces of the men. +They look at each other vacantly with forced smiles; their heads and +arms sway and droop; they swing round in their seats and are evidently +unconscious of their situation. At the first symptoms of this delirium +the Enchantress rises deliberately from her throne, wand in hand; and +gliding along the line toward the Left taps lightly and quickly each man +with the wand without pausing in her course. Then she steps upon the +dais._] + +CIRCE + +[_Sternly; with wand pointed upward and back toward the Right centre_] + + Hence to the sty! your proper shapes assume! + +[_Directly GRAEA, who during CIRCE’S movements has stridden noiselessly +into the room and has passed along its edge behind THERMIA and PHILINNA +and the Enchantress’ throne until in front of the other table near +the point where PHORBAS sits, raises her long whip and cracks it +fiercely with sharp detonation at the men’s feet. In a huddle they rush +tumultuously away with drooping heads and arms to the open rear doorway +and out through it, passing in front of MYRTO and her wheel and followed +by GRAEA lashing furiously. Some of the fugitives, as they drop on all +fours near the exit, are seen to have already developed curly pigs’ tails +at their posteriors. As the victims rush forth_ Mikkos _springs upon the +empty throne of CIRCE and balancing himself upon its arms gazes intently +into the bowl on the table before him, while MYRTO sets her wheel +revolving and humming loudly. The drop-curtain falls just as the door +closes behind the herd and GRAEA disappearing over the corridor._] + +The several positions at the fall of the curtain are as follows: CIRCE +stands upon the dais with wand raised in the attitude described. MYRTO +sits at her wheel, which turns more and more slowly as the curtain +descends. PHILINNA and THERMIA stand near the boudoir, still holding +their pitchers, the hand of one girl resting on the other’s shoulder. +_Mikkos_, poised upon CIRCE’S chair, his head lower than his tail, pores +intently over the punch-bowl. No person exhibits signs of amusement or +excitement of any sort. Their faces are serene, their figures motionless. +The wheel comes to a standstill just as the descending curtain hides it. + + +VII + +The same as Scenes III and V. The Seashore. EURYLOCHUS is still seated +on the stone by the ship, gloomy and dejected. The other men stand in a +group not far from him, apparently discussing some serious proposal. + +FIRST SAILOR + + Anyway he ordered us to stay here and guard the ship. + +PHILEMON + + Just so; I believe in obeying orders myself; but, lads, this is + an extraordinary case. + +SECOND SAILOR + + A case it is! But the commander’s equal to it I reckon. + +XENIAS + + The commander’s equal to anything on a square deal. But it’s + odds here against one man; he’ll need help if the land lies the + way the mate makes it out. + +EURYLOCHUS + +[_Turning and facing the others without rising_] + + Are ye all mad, and will not lay to heart + The sights and sounds of foul bedevilment + Haunting this cursed island? Will ye follow + Into the pit the steps of that rash man, + Foolhardy Ulysses?—the same who prick’d us on + To explore the ogre’s cavern, where six brave men + Were sever’d limbmeal and devour’d! + +SEVERAL VOICES + + Out! out! + +XENIAS + + Bother the ogre! The commander’s started now to pull half + the ship’s company out of a hole and if a human subject + could compass the business he’s it. But if there’s a dash of + witchcraft here, we ought to be with him and shoulder our share. + +FIRST SAILOR + + Ay, ay! that’s the talk! + +EURYLOCHUS + + What signifies mere number, when mortal wills + Clash with uncanny spirits? It is all over + With him and them!—We are enough to row + Our galley launch’d and from these shores deliver’d. + +SEVERAL VOICES + + Ho, shame! shame! + +PHILEMON + + Mark my words, lads; if the other fellows have got to trot + round in wolf and tiger skins we’re bound to go on all + fours along with ’em and not leave ’em in the lurch. If the + commander’s beating his way back we shall meet him on the trip; + if he isn’t, he’ll need help for certain. We’ll walk into that + domicile, witch or no witch! + +SECOND SAILOR + + Take her by storm! + +SEVERAL VOICES + + Right, right! Come on! come on! + +XENIAS + + Eurylochus here’ll stand shipguard. He won’t shove her off all + alone I reckon. + +PHILEMON + + Take up your traps now! Lively! + +[_The men stir about, making ready for their departure._] + + Here we go! + +[_They march away briskly, going out as the other party and ULYSSES had +gone. PHILEMON leads; XENIAS brings up the rear, watchfully._] + +XENIAS + +[_Turning back, at the last moment_] + + Don’t let her fly away, old man; + If you hear hell howling, it’s _us_! + +[_As the party disappears EURYLOCHUS with a gesture of despair flings +himself down by the keel of the vessel._] + + +VIII + +A grove upon sloping ground near CIRCE’S palace. Large trees cast deep +shadows with sunny spaces between. The mansion itself is not visible; but +on the Left at some elevation a glimpse is afforded of the court-yard +wall. A faint pathway amid shrubbery winds from the Right front upward +and out on the Left at the rear. + +Enter ULYSSES at the Right, tracing the path slowly and cautiously. +Perceiving the wall above and before him he pauses, moves his right +hand involuntary toward his sword-hilt and lifts the left to his lips +meditatively. While he thus stands reconnoitering and pondering, MERCURY +suddenly appears before him, stepping noiselessly from the shadow of a +tree upon the Left. At this apparition ULYSSES draws back an instant with +head slightly bowed, while his hand leaves the sword and is lifted to a +reverential gesture. The demeanor of MERCURY is easy and gracious. His +insignia, though plainly recognizable, are less conspicuous and brilliant +than they appeared in Scene II. + +MERCURY + +[_Taking the up-lifted hand of Ulysses_] + + Whither now, fate-worn wanderer, whither tending + Thread’st thou the dim paths of this briery steep? + What region holds thee or perchance what guile + Lurks in its mazy folds, wouldst thou not prove?— + Ere to that dome ascending, where in foul sties + Thy luckless comrades grovel now and groan, + To swinish shape by the enchantress changed! + +[_As the god speaks he withdraws his hand and indicates the direction of +the palace. ULYSSES recoils slightly at the last words of MERCURY._] + + One only, so minded that in Circe’s song + He read the bane it glozed, did value well + His safety and proclaim’d their loss.—Whom thou + Aimest forsooth to rescue and redeem! + Rather methinks the porcine couch to share + With them and vanish from men, came not + Some guardian hand between.—But lo! there grows + An antidote—a good drug, that shall check + The baleful magic of her potions. + +[_MERCURY pulls from the ground, moving aside the undergrowth which +concealed it, a small plant and shows it to ULYSSES._] + + See! + Black at the root, milk-white the flower; ’tis _moly_: + So to the immortals known; of men, scarce found. + +[_ULYSSES receives the herb from the hand of the god with an air of +profound attention and a shade of wonder._] + + Now may thy steps to yon weird mansion mount + And tread its halls unscathed, Ulysses, if + My mandate thou shalt heed and ponder well. + +[_ULYSSES shifts his attentive regard from the plant in his hand to the +speaker._] + + Her song will thrill thee, but the transforming spell + Shall break before the potent herb thou holdest. + Undaunted wilt thou enter; nor be shamed + If thy quick pulses bound when Circe’s glance + Encounters thine, and the soft audible charm + Of low-voiced invitation laps thee round. + Thou may’st admire and still be master. Straight + With her own hand a fragrant wine-cup filling, + When by her side she thrones thee, she will proffer + And bid thee drink—it is the poison’d chalice. + Yet quaff thou undismay’d, Ulysses. Then, + So soon’t is swallow’d and thyself unchanged, + Her magic wand wielded in vain, draw thou + Swiftly thy sword and rush as if to slay + At the enchantress with high-threatening blade. + +[_ULYSSES’ look of wonderment increases as MERCURY pauses._] + + The issue thou wilt mark. But let not pity + Nor the new spell of female blandishment + O’ercome thy senses or disarm thy hand, + Ere to its mastery yet once more she yields + And their true forms to thy changed mates restores. + +ULYSSES + + O gracious Helper, it is thy spirit that guides + Where eye of mortal swerves: to whom full oft + We pour’d thank-offering at the banquet’s close. + +MERCURY + + Who himself well bethinks, the gods assist. + Of drugs and arts uncanny mere human prudence + Compasseth not, Ulysses, sure defeat.— + But in her craft once baffled, ’tis with the _woman_, + No more the enchantress, thou wilt deal thereafter. + Nor are those powers to be despised, which oft + Compel a conqueror’s fealty and confuse + The sober aims of confident wisdom. + +[_While ULYSSES again looks down reflectively at the plant he holds +MERCURY suddenly disappears. ULYSSES, looking up and seeing the god no +longer, throws a keen glance in the direction of the wall. He then tastes +and swallows a morsel of the herb; and as he moves on and goes out at the +Left with firm step the music of CIRCE’S song is faintly heard behind the +scenes._] + + +IX + +The same as Scenes II and IV. The banquet-hall. The common chairs have +been removed. There are cups and a bowl on the table at the Right. The +Enchantress and her three nymphs are in their usual places when the +curtain rises: CIRCE sitting; PHILINNA and THERMIA standing; MYRTO seated +at her wheel which she turns slowly. The attitude of the persons is one +of expectancy. In a moment CIRCE, without turning her face, signs to +MYRTO with her left hand while with the right she draws the wand on the +table nearer. The wheel ceases to revolve. + +CIRCE + + Now Thermia! + +[_THERMIA throws open the door behind the dais. An instant later ULYSSES +enters, slowly but unhesitatingly, pausing as he stands on the platform +exactly where MERCURY stood in Scene II. His look is directed straight at +the Enchantress. His right arm is crossed downward upon his breast, the +hand under the mantle. A trace of wonder or fascination passes over his +face on meeting CIRCE’S gaze, while a similar feeling of surprise is for +a moment betrayed by her also. As she speaks she rises from her chair._] + +CIRCE + + Welcome, sir leader! + +[_ULYSSES bows slightly. He does not remove his helmet._] + + Thou art + Too far by thine own men outstripp’d, even though + Their famish’d weary members sought repose + Prompt and appropriate. + +[_ULYSSES bends his look more sternly upon the speaker._] + + Pray advance; and take + From our own hand, though proffer’d late, + Cordial refreshment. + +[_He moves slowly forward. PHILINNA draws well back the throne of CIRCE +and presents the other one. With a gracious gesture CIRCE waves ULYSSES +toward the second throne. He passes in front of her and seats himself. +She sits again, served by PHILINNA._] + + Thy silence augurs much + Of rude unfriendly greetings and rebuff + Elsewhere. + +[_While speaking she fills a beaker from the bowl._] + + But here are restful words and welcome + Right hospitable. + +[_Her right hand closes firmly over the wand, while with the left she +presents the cup._] + + So drink and be at peace! + +[_Still keeping his eye fixed upon CIRCE, ULYSSES raises the cup to his +lips and drains it. Immediately the gracious look of the Enchantress +changes. Rising partly in her seat and bending forward, she strikes him +smartly with her wand and holds it threateningly as she speaks._] + +CIRCE + + Hence to the sty! Go, join thy wallowing mates! + +[_Instantly, feeling that the potion has not harmed him, ULYSSES springs +erect, swiftly draws his sword and raising it aloft rushes upon the +Enchantress as if to kill her. With a loud cry she starts back, causing +the throne to slide away behind her; then dropping her wand she springs +forward under the threatening sword-arm in suppliant attitude. PHILINNA, +at first shrinking back in terror, directly as CIRCE falls at ULYSSES’ +feet follows her; and kneeling, shelters her mistress’ head with her +right arm, while the left is raised in deprecating gesture. At the same +time THERMIA starts a step forward with her right hand lifted, the left +pressed to her bosom. MYRTO, after a first look of alarm, reaches behind +her and throws open the Left rear door, where_ Mikkos _appears. He seems +excited. MYRTO seizes his chain. At the Right rear entrance, GRAEA is +seen glaring furtively into the room.—CIRCE speaks as ULYSSES seems to +hesitate to strike the fatal blow._] + +CIRCE + + What man art thou? What mortal hath this wonder + Unheard of wrought, these potions to abide? + For never, never did other lips unblighted + Press the drugg’d bowl, save thine!—Ah, yes; ’twas true: + _Ulysses_ thou art, whom Mercury foretold, + From Trojan field thy lone bark homeward steering. + He, he hath found thee moly! And I thought + It were Eurylochus, whom his followers named; + The craven, the woman-hater! + +[_ULYSSES lowers his weapon, still grasping it firmly. His stern look +relaxes slightly as CIRCE and PHILINNA, kneeling, lift their faces to him +with aspect softened to the expression of pleading. THERMIA steps nearer, +intently observing the scene; while GRAEA, entering the room, and MYRTO, +holding_ Mikkos’ _chain, also move slightly forward. At this juncture all +of the persons have come to form nearly a single group._] + +CIRCE + + O Ulysses! + Thrice valiant, thrice in wisdom proved, not thee + Would Circe in foul brutal shape behold; + But as thou art!—Return, return thy sword + To its safe cover! + +[_ULYSSES steps back a pace, and CIRCE rises to her feet, holding the +hand of PHILINNA who has risen first._] + + What use have we for war, + Whom fate and fortune fashion’d to be friends? + +[_With deliberation ULYSSES sheathes his sword, falling back still +farther. CIRCE and PHILINNA move forward toward him._] + +THERMIA + + Happy are they who find a friend in Circe, + Sir stranger! + +[_His countenance remains unmoved as he divides his attention between +CIRCE and THERMIA after a suspicious glance at Mikkos and GRAEA._] + +CIRCE + + Nay, doubt not, but be refresh’d! + +[_She signs to THERMIA, who shows ULYSSES to the throne which MERCURY +had occupied in Scene II. As he sits he doffs his helmet, which THERMIA +receives and hangs upon the wall. CIRCE resumes her seat. She speaks +while THERMIA serves ULYSSES at the other table._] + + And be thy mind at rest. No more of drifting + On the dark seas; sure knowledge shall illume + The pathways of thy homeward voyage, Ulysses. + +[_A pause. With troubled look he barely tastes what is set before him._] + + Ah, weary heart! why thus + Sit’st thou all-speechless, tasting not the food + Set guileless by thy hand? Believ’st thou not + My plain assurance and changed mood? Dost hold + The word of Circe in no honor because + With cunning art she baffles and disarms + The unworthy false petitioner? + +ULYSSES + + Fair Circe, dread enchantress, what true man + Could eat and be at comfort, whilst he knows + His trusty comrades lie imprison’d, bent low + To bestial habit?—Nay, if thy alter’d mien + Harbors indeed the good-will it portends, + Then first let me behold my men restored + To their own shapes. No falsehood stamp’d their errand, + Nor undeserving were they in themselves. + +CIRCE + + Deserve those well of their commander, who lose + His very name and tidings from their thoughts? + +ULYSSES + + Another led them; and, the leader failing, + The follower who forgets may be forgiven. + +CIRCE + + Eurylochus wins slight mercy by that word. + +ULYSSES + + Eurylochus won the birthright of the wary. + +CIRCE + + A father art thou to thy men, Ulysses: + Even as I guard with jealous motherly eye + The welfare of these nymphs. Nor hast thou long + To wait, ere the whole frolic throng shall make + My portals ring with greetings of their captain. + Not those alone whom we repress’d and punish’d + And for thy sake will pardon, but likewise they + Who tarry by the shore—for well I know + Wily Ulysses staked not all his forces + On a forlorn wild venture.—Nay, doubt not; + Even Eurylochus shall be reconciled! + Go, Graea; Myrto; seek the ship, and teach them + The way to find us. Leave not one unbidden! + +ULYSSES + + Great Circe, I will trust thee; ’tis sore need! + By thy sage guidance, or in no wise, we reach + The desired haven. + +CIRCE + +[_To MYRTO and GRAEA who have hesitated as if awaiting further command. +They go out at Right C, accompanied by_ Mikkos.] + + Speed now! the shadow creeps + Well past the noontide mark. Away, away!— + Noble Ulysses, thou shalt soon behold them.— + But first, my Thermia, show our gracious guest + The bathing chambers, where by warm showers assuaged + His long sea-weariness may release him. + +[_ULYSSES bows to CIRCE. He unslings his sword, which THERMIA receives +and hangs up near the helmet. She then conducts him out at Left 2. At the +same moment when ULYSSES puts off his sword, PHILINNA lifts CIRCE’S wand +from the floor where it had fallen._] + +PHILINNA + +[_Handing the wand to CIRCE, who receives it as it were unconsciously_] + + O dearest lady! + What chance, what change befalls us? O! how dared + That strange, still man to lift his dreadful sword + As if to kill you? Are his devices stronger + Than your own arts? O, how could you pretend + To cherish and befriend him! + +CIRCE + + Nay, Philinna: + I am not feigning. Oft had I mused and ponder’d + On Mercury’s warning and Ulysses’ name. + Nor did I dread his coming. But strange haps + Disturb’d my vision and I knew him not. + My potions could indeed avail no longer, + Their cure and antidote once found. Yet never + Into unworthy hands do gods resign + Their priceless secrets. No; I would not harm + A man so strong and wise! It is the _first_!— + Now go, Philinna, and lay my simples ready, + Which for the counter-charm I shall employ, + To change his comrades back. + +[_PHILINNA, who looks wonderingly at CIRCE and seems hardly to comprehend +her demeanor, withdraws slowly, going out at Right 2. CIRCE casts a +glance where ULYSSES had gone out; then, looking down at the wand held +loosely in her hand, soliloquizes._] + + Yes, yes; there is + No falsehood on the lip, when the heart guides + To new unwonted utterance, though it seem + All former strains and strivings to belie. + His coming I fear’d not; I rather craved + To behold the promised visitor whose shrewd wit + Should test my powers of magic and perchance + Turn them (as hath befallen) from woe to weal + For him and his. Yet till I saw I doubted; + Nor knew, first seeing. + +[_She clasps her hands at her back, holding the wand behind her._] + + O, there is a way + Surer than any drug, to bind wise hearts! + Wielding no wand of transformation, but + With fine invisible weapons to o’ercome + His might who seems to conquer; and reveal + What weakness lurks beneath. And Circe’s arts + (Which sooner aim to hinder than to harm) + Shall still fail not! + +[_Re-enter THERMIA, who begins to put the table in order where Ulysses +had been served._] + + Fair Thermia, we shall need + Straightway new-garnish’d tables and the plenty + Of a redoubled evening banquet. Soon + That eager company, Myrto’s charge, will troop + Past porch and threshold to the expected board— + Not indisposed, I fancy, toward such welcome.— + Ay, forthwith, Thermia! + +[_THERMIA sounds a whistle which hangs at her girdle, and other nymphs +enter and proceed to deck the tables._] + + Even our guest, their captain, + Will find his zest, when in good sooth he sees + His two ship-companies made one.—Ah, there; + Even now they come! + +[_A clambering and murmur are heard. The door leading from the porch +flies open, and ULYSSES’ company, headed by PHILEMON and XENIAS, enter +precipitately, though not in rude disorder, their faces beaming with the +excitement of wonder and expectancy. CIRCE stands at her usual place, +holding the wand with her hands clasped in front of her, and PHILINNA +appears at the door behind. THERMIA and her helpers desist from their +task at the tables as the men enter, and draw back near the exits. The +nymphs stand motionless and placid during the remainder of the scene, +taking no part in the action and unnoticed by the other persons._] + +PHILEMON + + Madam, we’re a bit unceremonious, no doubt. But our errand’s an + urgent one; and we encountered an invitation after a manner, if + there be no mistake about it. + +CIRCE + + All ceremony shall be waived, good sir. What hap + Fosters this urgency? + +PHILEMON + + We’re _Ulysses’_ men, lady! come to seek him and deliver him—by + your leave. He cast off alone when the leader of the other + watch came back from here in such a blue funk; and he ordered + us to wait for him by the ship. But we felt a trifle uneasy, + after that yarn of snakes and fireworks Eurylochus spun for us, + and followed to help. We’d nigh about made the top, when we met + your two maids, ma’am, and the monkey. We knew they must hail + from some witch-pen or other for certain, when we spied such a + bunch of triplets, and we veered off a point or two at first; + but the little black-eyed one—she as had the ape in tow—spoke + us so fair and told such a straight story, how the commander + was safe and sound and everybody happy up here, and you had + sent specially to invite us, that we felt mighty encouraged to + believe her and headed straight for the top again, while they + went down to fetch Eurylochus;—especially seeing we had made up + our minds—begging your pardon again, lady—to effect an entrance + anyway.—But where is he? + +CIRCE + + Your entrance had been barr’d nowise, when once + You had named Ulysses—which your mates forgot, + And came to grief thereby.—But you shall see him. + There hangs his sword, his helm. + He comes; he has heard you! + +[_ULYSSES enters at Left 2 behind the group of men, who turn quickly. His +appearance is imposing, his dress brilliant._] + +CIRCE + + For me, I have another + Business to set on foot.—Philinna; ready? + +[_PHILINNA signs affirmatively, and as ULYSSES greets his men CIRCE goes +out at Right 2, PHILINNA remaining at the doorway._] + +ULYSSES + + Xenias! good Philemon! + +[_All throng about their commander with hand-shaking and joyous +exclamations._] + +PHILEMON + + ’Tis you? You are here, sir?—and all right! + ’Twas a true tale, then, by the great gods! + +ULYSSES + + Ah, you see I slipt not. + +XENIAS + + But it wasn’t long before we slipt after you! Mind you, sir, we + didn’t wait for the summons. + +ULYSSES + + ’Twas a pardonable impatience, I acknowledge. + +[_A voice raised in sharp tone of command, followed by a sudden uproar, +is heard behind the scenes. CIRCE enters quickly at Right C, with her +wand raised high, which as she comes in she lowers and points backward. +Both the rear doors fly open. In their proper persons the men who were +changed to swine burst in abruptly upon the scene, one or two or three +at a time, stopping and gazing about them with puzzled and amazed +expression. They rub their eyes or tap their foreheads, till gradually +recollecting themselves they recognize their situation. The restored men +seem to have gained in comeliness; their faces are fresh, their clothing +is new, presenting a contrast to the well-worn garments of the other +party. THERON appears even stouter than before; his cook’s cap and dress +are dazzling white. ELPENOR, near him, has become sleeker, though no +less slender than ever. All the men are serious; and the re-transformed +exhibit profound emotion, weeping as they recognize their companions and +the commander. The meeting is an occasion rather for action than for +speech: its words are chiefly outcries and the ejaculation of familiar +names. The throng becomes more calm and quiet when the Enchantress, who +has herself been visibly moved, at length speaks, standing at the head of +her table._] + +CIRCE + + Cease; cease, good men! Enough of tears! Yield now + To the bright hour; and from your much-tried hearts + Let present peace and comfort rub away + The black unhandsome stains of foul mischance. + Here stand ye face to face and hand to hand, + Unscathed, unconquer’d. Winds and wild seas and all + The weary thankless strain of laboring oar, + Duress and guile and hostile rude encounter, + Have but conspired to point you to the fairest + Of restful shores.—Ulysses, in good time, + After due respite, if thou cravest still + Some farther convoy, ’tis secure. But now + Mirth, pleasure, shall prevail.—Only there lacks + Yet one I would fain welcome, though himself + Of faint reciprocation. + +ULYSSES + + Gracious lady, I am confident that Eurylochus will conclude to + join us when once informed of our situation and finding himself + left permanently alone. + +XENIAS + + Belike he may take to the woods, your honor, when the triplets + heave in sight. + +CIRCE + + O, Mikkos will manage that! + +ELPENOR + + Eurylochus climbs trees. + +THERON + + Avast there! Mikkos is the monkey. Hast left thy memory in the + hog-pen, boy? + +GLAUCUS + + [_Who has been on the lookout_] Sail ho! They are boarding the + gangway already, ma’am. + +[_Enter from the porch MYRTO, leading_ Mikkos; _then EURYLOCHUS; GRAEA +behind him. The mate advances hesitatingly, but is closely followed up by +the swine-maiden. As he perceives ULYSSES and the men his expression is +partly of relief, partly of shamefacedness. His alarm has not entirely +left him, but he casts shy and suspicious glances toward CIRCE while +MYRTO speaks._] + +MYRTO + + We have fetched him, my lady, though I believe he never would + have been caught if there had not been three of us together. + We found him down by the little bay where their ship is + drawn ashore; and when he saw us he started to run into the + water. But Graea waded out farther than he dared to go. Then + he climbed up into the fig-tree; but Mikkos climbed up still + higher, so he had to come down directly where I was standing + close to the roots of it; although he seemed to fear me the + most of all. + +ELPENOR + + [_Interrupting_] You turn the whirligig. + +MYRTO + + We had him between us now, where he couldn’t get away; and I + assured him the captain was safe, and told him how we had just + met a party of his companions and invited them for you. For all + that he didn’t want to come; but Graea stood close behind him + and kept walking until we got him here. + +[_The men do not laugh at EURYLOCHUS, though some smile faintly, and +CIRCE is visibly amused._] + +ULYSSES + + [_Seriously_] Eurylochus, all is well. Be thyself again. + Bygones shall be bygones. There is naught to fear. + +CIRCE + + Indeed, sir, it is as your commander says. There is naught to + fear; and all is well, now that you have deigned to make up the + perfect number of my company, so the entertainment may proceed. + The tables are ready garnished, waiting for the viands only. + You shall all find seats. + +[_All the men except EURYLOCHUS seat themselves in a quiet and orderly +manner at both tables without discrimination of the two watches. ULYSSES +sits at the head of the table by the dais. MYRTO and GRAEA have withdrawn +to the back of the room. CIRCE, still standing, claps her hands and the +nymphs at the exits disappear, to bring the courses._] + +EURYLOCHUS + + You make occasional exceptions no doubt, madam; nevertheless I + would take my oath upon it that _that_ was once a man! + +[_He points at_ Mikkos, _who, released by MYRTO, has just jumped into his +chair by CIRCE as she seats herself. The ape shows his teeth and begins +to raise himself by the hands._] + +CIRCE + + [_Laughing_] That was a manful _thinker_ once. Sit; sit, kind + sir! + +[_The curtain falls as EURYLOCHUS takes his seat near ULYSSES amid a buzz +of merriment._] + + +END OF FIRST ACT + + + + +[Illustration: ACT TWO] + +[Illustration: THE SECOND ACT] + + +I + +The back of CIRCE’S palace, late in the afternoon, one year later than +the occurrences of the First Act. The back of the building lies toward +the setting sun, whose declining rays are now intercepted and softened +into shade by foliage and flitting clouds. The pale yellow walls and tall +narrow windows and the one central entrance on this side are not obscured +by vines and trailing plants, but cleanly sheltered by a lofty colonnade +which runs the entire length of the edifice, with wide low pavement only +a step higher than the lawn that borders it. The veranda-floor and the +plinth are dewy with freshly sprinkled water. The green sward of the +foreground is varied by flower-beds and dotted with luxuriant trees, a +bower and seats near by. Here there is no fountain; but a streamlet, +issuing from an archway at the Right corner of the palace, winds its +way downward across the flowery slope. A peacock struts and spreads his +fan in one of the open places. Some utterances of persons represented +indicate that the situation affords glimpses of the sea. + +There are no suggestions of witchcraft or magic in the present scene. +Where the anterior façade of the palace seemed weird or uncanny, the rear +elevation and its belongings wear rather an idyllic aspect. + +The curtain rising discovers three couples severally grouped. Upon the +veranda, at the Left, CIRCE and ULYSSES are seated opposite each other +at a small table, upon which are cups and a vase of flowers, while a +nymph occasionally passes to and fro, serving them with wine from within. +CIRCE is not attired as enchantress. She wears neither her black robe +nor the coronal of pearls. The prevailing color of her Grecian dress is +amethyst, and her hair is loosely confined by a narrow band of gold.—On +the Right, at the farther end of the veranda, PHILEMON and PHILINNA sit +side by side in confidential attitude.—Upon the lawn, in the foreground +near the centre, far enough from the others to converse gently without +being overheard by them, are seen XENIAS and THERMIA: the former seated +carelessly facing sidewise toward the colonnade; the latter standing by a +tall shrub, cutting flowers which she gathers in the fold of her garment. + +THERMIA + +[_Who stands with her back to the veranda_] + + If you will take a good long look, Xenias, just where you are + looking now, you will see exactly why you and I are a whole lot + luckier than some others I might name. + +XENIAS + + How is that? What’s the mystification now, Miss Inscrutable? I + see only what we see every day; and no great signs of bad luck + about them yet. + +THERMIA + + Of course we see it every day! And every day is making it worse + for them, friend Xenias. Do you suppose they can keep this sort + of thing up forever? + +XENIAS + + Well, what if they can’t? I’ve no doubt the illusion is mighty + pleasant while it lasts. + +THERMIA + + And so much the more painful when it comes to an end—but you + and I have kept our wits about us, Xenias. + +XENIAS + + And have been uncommon good friends all the time, you mean, + Thermia—Well, I admit it’s the best way. But they don’t think + so. + +THERMIA + + They think of nothing! But it will set them thinking, when the + time comes for you to sail away. + +XENIAS + + If that time ever does come! The commander has got to order + it; and he doesn’t seem very likely to speak the word until + your lady orders _him_. It’s true some of the lads are getting + restive and tired of dilly-dallying, as they call it, here in + this blessed island! + +THERMIA + + Yes, and Graea gives me to understand that Eurylochus is going + about secretly stirring them up and wants them to put on a bold + front and demand that something shall be done. + +XENIAS + + Ah, so? He hasn’t said a word to me or Philemon. I reckon he + thinks Philemon and Xenias are in the same box. + +THERMIA + + Eurylochus doesn’t know the difference, of course! I shall be + sorry when you have to go, Xenias; I shall miss you sadly after + you are gone. But it will simply _kill_ Philinna. + +XENIAS + + Well now, what if Philemon should take her home to Ithaca with + him for his wife? _He_ hasn’t got any Penelope waiting for him + there. + +THERMIA + + O heavens! And do you believe Philinna would ever leave Circe, + or that Circe would ever let her go? + +XENIAS + + And do you believe Philemon would ever leave Philinna behind, + or that Philinna would ever let him go without her? + +THERMIA + + Xenias, it’s a pity about them both—the greatest pity in the + world! As for Circe, she really admires your captain; great + men are scarce enough, she says; but Circe will never lose her + head, even if Ulysses has lost his; nor will either of them be + quite heart-broken, be sure. But Philinna! Philinna! + +[_CIRCE, who has been laughing merrily with ULYSSES, claps her hands +twice._] + + Yes, now; here comes the music they feed on. + +[_THERMIA begins to move away as THRATTIS the lute-girl enters from the +palace in response to CIRCE’S summons._] + +XENIAS + + But stay, Thermia, and let us hear it. + +THERMIA + + O, it will only be the same old songs! Besides, I have my vases + to fill. + +[_She goes out round the Right corner of the building. XENIAS settles +himself in a listening attitude._] + +CIRCE + + Thrattis, we need thee still.—’Tis strange, Ulysses, + How, like some thirst or hunger, each day return + These tuneful memories! + +ULYSSES + + Yet, fair Circe, charged + With a more strange forgetfulness of all else + Than that they celebrate. + +CIRCE + + Hist, listen now! + +THRATTIS + +[_Standing midway between the two couples on the veranda, after a brief +prelude upon her instrument, sings._] + + Forget, forget! Ah, linger not + By dreams of yesterday! + Each vanish’d hour shall be forgot, + Fresh phantasies hold sway. + No lowlier crown the linden weaves + Of tassel’d verdure now + Because the old year’s scatter’d leaves + Return not to the bough. + +CIRCE + + [_While an interlude is played_] Our Thrattis echoes thy + thought, Ulysses; and indeed I find a certain sort of wisdom in + the ditty. + +ULYSSES + + Yet methinks it carries somewhat of a different effect from the + open intention of it. + +CIRCE + + Wait, listen! + +THRATTIS + + [_Sings_] Forget, forget! In love’s demesnes + No faded chaplet wear; + Nor conjure phantoms from lost scenes, + To sit unbidden there. + Round heaven her sign swift Iris sets, + Flings forth her jewel’d zone: + O, who beholds it but forgets + The frowning storm-cloud flown? + +[_The singer bends her head to hide her face as she sweeps the strings +again._] + +CIRCE + + Good Thrattis, thou art tired standing. Sit and sip of the + wine. Thou need’st sing no farther now. + +PHILINNA + + She weeps, my lady. + +[_As THRATTIS, declining the offered refreshment, turns and goes within._] + +CIRCE + + Poor soul! truly I pity her. + +PHILEMON + + But why does the girl weep, sweet Philinna? Has she some + express sorrow attending her? + +PHILINNA + + O yes, Philemon; nor will she put it entirely away. ’Tis three + years agone since she floated to our island, lashed to some + fragment of a vessel from the north which the hurricane had + wrecked; but her father and two brothers who so saved her life + themselves perished in the sea. + +PHILEMON + + O, sad story; unhappy Thrattis! Yet so I do much wonder at the + song she chose to sing. + +PHILINNA + + We could do little to assuage her grief. But Circe has been + kind to her and taught her the songs she sings so sweetly to + her lute. + +ULYSSES + + Perchance some such strains would comfort the child as the + captive Trojan maidens might listen to betimes among us at the + ships when the harp was struck. + +CIRCE + + Pray what, Ulysses? + +ULYSSES + + Such as sounded praise + Not for the living and the days we lived + (Which with their moil and megrim did afford + Scant food, I grant, for eulogy); but ever + With vision backward turn’d the bard would seek + Among long-treasured memories one most apt + And draw it forth. Then did we lose all sense + Of aching limbs, sore wounds, and comrades slain, + Whilst in high-swelling measures like great waves + Of Iphitus or Heracles he sang— + Glories of ancient men. + +CIRCE + + It was fair medicine + To still the pains ye dwelt in. In my isle + Such cordials find not place.—But come, Ulysses, + And see me prove the powers of that rare herb + Whereof I promised.—Philinna, attend us. Of simples + My sampler art thou. + +[_CIRCE laughs heartily as she utters the last words and she and ULYSSES +rise from their seats. ULYSSES joins in the laugh. PHILINNA smiles +faintly and seems loth to part from PHILEMON as these two also rise._] + +CIRCE + + [_Laughing again_] Thy Philemon + Will not forget so soon. + +[_CIRCE and ULYSSES go into the palace followed by PHILINNA._] + +XENIAS + +[_As PHILEMON turns toward him, stepping down from the veranda_] + + The commander and our Lady of the Herbs seem to be in a right + merry mood, Philemon. + +PHILEMON + + That they are indeed, to judge by the colors they fly. + +XENIAS + + _You_ take it not quite so. And yet methinks you have as good + cause as they to be blithe. + +PHILEMON + + I take your meaning, Xenias. Nevertheless I’m sheer doubtful + now and then—as though too great happiness should somehow have + a sobering effect, as you might say, upon a fellow. + +XENIAS + + Then belike when the commander sobers down a bit he will pass + the word for a home start. + +PHILEMON + + Ay, truly I have thought of it. + +XENIAS + +[_Laughing and clapping his friend on the shoulder_] + + But you’re not in a raking hurry about it; eh, Philemon? + +[_Re-enter THERMIA round the Right corner. She comes quickly toward the +men._] + + But here’s Thermia again, in a hurry about something or other + surely. + +THERMIA + + O Xenias! I’ve seen Graea again and have learnt that Eurylochus + has called all the men to a meeting at the shore to-morrow + morning early about that business. + +PHILEMON + + Ah, what business, Thermia? + +THERMIA + + You tell him, Xenias. + +XENIAS + + Philemon and I were just upon the same matter—about the + commander passing the word to cast off. + +PHILEMON + + Well, it seems the mate hasn’t invited _me_ yet. + +XENIAS + + No, nor me; he thinks you and I would pull on the wrong + quarter, laddie. But I shall be on hand just the same to see + how the wind does blow. Don’t you go, Philemon; you haven’t the + heart for it. + +THERMIA + + Ah, thou art sad, Philemon; I feel for thee. + +PHILEMON + + O, let it come; let it come! + +THERMIA + + Yes, the day is bound to come, sooner or later. I would I could + belate it. But farewell now. [_She goes out._] + +PHILEMON + + Xenias, I would not ask thee to hold back + And thine own sentiments belie because + Mine do enchain me so to Circe’s isle + As in its soil the roots of yonder oak + Are wove and knotted. No; it is for you all + Timely and reasonable—nor for Ulysses least— + To set your faces homeward. But to me + That home so dimly beckons now, I know not + If it be there or here! + +XENIAS + + [_Stepping closer to his friend_] ’Twas not thy wont + To doubt, Philemon, with faint wavering heart, + When we together oft by chilly Troy + Crouch’d with our captain in an ambuscade + Or sprang from the galley’s prow full-arm’d ashore + At Tenedos or Chryse. Be thyself; be bold! + The girl is not to the island rooted fast, + Even though, as they pretend, their mothers be + Fig-trees and fountains. We go: take _her_! Herself, + I’ll wager, nothing loth. + +[_While the last words are exchanged between the two men the figure of +GRAEA the swine-maiden, unobserved by them, is seen passing furtively +behind and occasionally halting as if to listen._] + +PHILEMON + + Ah, Xenias, + Thou knowest not Philinna. She is true + Not to me only. + +XENIAS + + I know. Untie them! + If need be, cut the knot! Love glories + In shifts and stratagems. + +PHILEMON + + Ah, ’twere not easy! + +XENIAS + + Think; ponder! Swear it: _If with Ulysses’ crew_ + _Philemon sail, Philinna shall sail too._ + +[_XENIAS seizes the hand of PHILEMON and they go out together at the +Left._] + + +II + +The Seashore, early in the forenoon of the next day. The scene is the +same as in the First Act, but the signs of a temporary encampment have +disappeared and the hull of the vessel is encumbered with grass and +weeds. The curtain rising discovers both watches of the crew (excepting +GLAUCUS and PHILEMON) disposed in scattered groups; some of the men +sitting or reclining; others standing. All seem pre-occupied and the +faces of most wear an anxious look. The demeanor of EURYLOCHUS, who +stands in a conspicuous position, is more confident and dignified than in +former scenes. + +FIRST SAILOR + + Well, I suppose the devil knows how long we have got to wait + before they show up. + +SECOND SAILOR + + We’re lucky if they ever show up at all. Ten to one Glauc’ll + come back without him. + +FIRST SAILOR + + Ay, ay! It’s a question whether even Glaucus can get the + commander’s ear—leastwise he’ll have to get Madam Circe out of + the way first. + +PHORBAS + + Mark me; we aren’t safe yet! There’s no knowing what sort of + beasts she might turn us all into even now, just to keep him + with her a year longer! + +SECOND SAILOR + + I’ve a notion we’d have done better to send a man of the + commander’s own watch—some one that never was a hog. + +XENIAS + + Bravo! where will you find such a one? Glauc’s all right; it’s + enough to have a man who wasn’t _always_ a hog. + +FIRST SAILOR + + Ha, ha! Theron, that’s one on you. + +THERON + + To hell with it! hang the hogs! + +ELPENOR + + My father _sticks_ his. + +FIRST SAILOR + + That’s the talk, Elpy; keep the culinary department straight! + +SECOND SAILOR + + But what if he’s so bewitched he won’t come and talk anyway? + +EURYLOCHUS + + Peace, peace! + ’Tis scarce an hour since we despatch’d our comrade + On no brief errand. + Be patient; have good hope! It hangs, I know, + On the razor’s edge; yet leans the weightier cause + Toward consummation. Witchery there is still; + Else were there little need to prompt Ulysses + To his plain duty. Drugs have their antidotes, + Which to employ are easy when once found: + More subtle—ay, more deadly! than her potions + Are these soft blandishments, cared she to play them + To their full scope. But it has stood forth clear, + Though once I did mistrust the promised convoy: + Not in malevolence the enchantress binds + Ulysses’ will. And when good Glaucus comes, + Fearless and plain of speech and charged with all + The prayerful hot commands we laid upon him; + When he, unheard of Circe, bids his captain + Arise, for old Laertes’ sake; and, backward + With stern reproachful finger pointing, names + The faithful wife who waits, Penelope, + Icarius’ daughter:—then, perhaps, this cord + Of crimson devilment will snap—remembrance, + Conscience awake. + +XENIAS + + Eurylochus, was it not + Here on this very shore a twelvemonth since, + Launching the half-mann’d pinnace, you would fly, + Your mates left in the lurch? + +EURYLOCHUS + + But for Ulysses + (This you would add) the doors of their foul prison + Had closed on them forever. + +XENIAS + + But to-day + They jest and laugh, though ’tis in Circe’s isle. + +THERON + + Damn me, too, if we’re the only ones that have learnt to + mumble spoon-victuals and dance with tree-toads in the + moonlight! + +EURYLOCHUS + + Xenias, there is a fear to which all others + Are as soft zephyrs to the tempest: it is + When spirits uncanny mock the paltry arts + Of mortal courage. But for my fear, no tidings, + No warning, no alarm had reach’d you. + +FIRST SAILOR + + Hi, yi! [_He points upward to the Right_] They’re coming! + There’s old Glauc digging down this way. + +SECOND SAILOR + + [_Spying through his hand_] Alone! by the living gods! + +[_Groans are uttered by some of the men, with gestures of disgust and +disappointment._] + +EURYLOCHUS + + Hold; wait! + He waves his staff; he smiles; he brings, be sure, + No grievous answer! + +[_Enter GLAUCUS bare-headed, carrying a staff with oak-leaves attached, +which he waves to and fro._] + +GLAUCUS + + All’s well! all’s well, lads! It’s a go; the commander has + struck his colors. We’re off, sure! + +[_The men throng about GLAUCUS, some hurrahing and throwing up their +caps._] + +SEVERAL VOICES + + But where is he? What’d he say? When’s he coming? + +GLAUCUS + + O, belay there! Everything takes time. He had to go and talk + with madam first, of course—and not take French leave like an + orang-outang. He’ll be here in a jiffy. + +PHORBAS + + Yes; but what’ll she make him say when he does come? I tell you + we’re not well out of this kettle of fish till we’ve cut loose + into high water! + +GLAUCUS + + Avast! He’ll say what comes into his head. The lady’s got a + head on her too: she’s not the kind of a craft to capsize at + the first catspaw of wind, don’t you believe it! + +FIRST SAILOR + + Put on a life-preserver, Phorb! Shin up the mast! + +ELPENOR + + The mast isn’t shinned up itself yet. + +EURYLOCHUS + + Glaucus, we owe thee thanks. + +GLAUCUS + + Not a bit of it! I doubt if we’d have dared to tackle him for + another year if you hadn’t put us up to it, old man. But you + may set me to walk the plank if he doesn’t talk fair now. + +XENIAS + + Hold on, lads! Seats again! there he comes! Stilly, stilly! + +[_Enter ULYSSES at the Right, wearing sword and helmet. His aspect is +gracious as he comes to a stand near the men, who sit in silence. Before +speaking he casts a contemplative glance seaward, then turns toward the +vessel._] + +ULYSSES + + Our good ship! Ah yes; the seams + Gape in her sun-parch’d sides, and rank weeds twine + Their prickly meshes round her shriveling keel. + Yes, yes, my men; full long we have sat still, + Basking in languorous fancy, rapt, unheeding + This summons to the wave. Nor tarried others + Behind, to follow and seize us: as when those + Who clomb the banks of Lotus-land and straying + Ate of the flowery food, their souls + Steep’d in forgetfulness, we seized and bound, + Stifled their cries and dragg’d them to the shore.— + To-day they are no more: so many + Death’s winged minions snatch’d and in wild sport + Flung them to feed the sea-god’s ravenous brood; + Or, on strange shores their white bones strewing, sign’d + The landmarks of our course.—What wonder, then! + What wonder, O brave comrades, if, so spent, + So spared, beaching beside enchanted bowers + Our single bark, lull’d under lustrous skies, + Encircled by fond arms, we linger’d fondly + And long. But now, welcome the tug and strain + Once more, as ye have will’d it: the bent oar, + The creaking rowlock, Zephyrus’ shrill pipe, + The thundrous pounding surge! Nor now, as then, + Shall we unpiloted and blindly plow + Our swift sea-furrow; but wise Circe’s words + Will be to us as beacons. We shall know + What winds press homeward; on which hand to hold + (When oft to night course our sick yearning prompts) + Orion and the Bear.—If only + Her solemn friendly warnings ye can heed, + Which in good time I shall expressly cite, + All may be well. + +EURYLOCHUS + + Trust your men, sir, for that—leastwise if past experience + avail them anything in the way of instruction for the future. + +ULYSSES + + So prove it! On the third morn we start. Meanwhile + Let none stand idle! To-day remains in part; + One other day to-morrow, whilst we urge + The labors needful to our voyage. Draw water; + The wine-jars and the barley-crates replenish; + Refit the tackle.—Now let the old ship drink + And plume herself again! + +SEVERAL VOICES + +[_As the men, who have already sprung from their seats, gather round the +vessel_] + + Hurrah! hurrah! + Off with her! Rush her out! + +GLAUCUS + + Look lively, lads! Knock away those props! Clear out the ways + there for’ard! + +SEVERAL VOICES + + Clear it is! Lively, lively! + +ULYSSES + + Eurylochus, I depute + To you the furtherance of these tasks. My presence + Another foresight claims. + +EURYLOCHUS + + Very well; very well, sir!— + +[_To the men, some of whom have climbed on deck_] + + Drop the bow-chains over there, boys! Catch on, half a hundred + of you! There she goes; steady, steady! + +[_The curtain falls as ULYSSES goes out at the Right and the ship, pulled +and pushed by many hands, begins to move toward the water._] + + +III + +The back of the palace, in the evening of the same day as Scene II.—As +the curtain rises ULYSSES and CIRCE are discovered in the foreground: the +former occupying a low seat by a tree; the latter reclining near him. +Upon the veranda, forming a group by themselves though not far removed +from the others, PHILEMON, XENIAS, THERMIA, and PHILINNA are seated at a +table, apparently playing at some game by the light of a hanging lamp. +ULYSSES and CIRCE are revealed to view by the rays of the moon, which +near its full is rising above the palace roof. + +CIRCE + + Those children are making a brave effort to play at their game, + Ulysses. They pretend to-morrow will be soon enough for parting + salutations. + +THERMIA + + [_Who has overheard the remark_] O Circe! Philinna cannot play + at all; she throws amiss every time. + +CIRCE + + Well, I doubt if her Philemon does much better.—There are at + least two aching hearts over there, Ulysses. + +ULYSSES + + Yet I have remarked Philemon seems not exactly depressed by it. + Indeed both he and Xenias surprise me, how cheerily they await + the event. + +CIRCE + + They are men: new scenes, new labors summon them; thoughts of + their home. But my poor nymphs must rest contented hereafter + with only me and the even sameness of our days. + +ULYSSES + + Even so ye lived blithe-hearted ere we came. + +CIRCE + + Hearts _more_ than blithe we knew not ere ye came. + +ULYSSES + + Counts not the added bliss as gain meanwhile? + +CIRCE + + True gain or loss the final balance shows. + +ULYSSES + + Then, till it’s struck, hope for the winning scale. + +CIRCE + + Such hopes help mortals cheat themselves, Ulysses, + Even of the present profit. + +ULYSSES + + But I note, + Thy tacit precept, thine own example, leads us + To drain the brimming cup and count as naught + What pangs might follow. + +CIRCE + + Ulysses, my example + (For in these closing hours I will confess it) + Hath my soul’s truest insight much belied. + Thou didst with moly baffle my magic art: + The _woman’s_ craft to baffle quite, no helper + Could guide thee to a clue. Hate there was none— + As well thou knowest: my bosom’s pride conceal’d + No sinister, vindictive purpose. But + Poor Circe, worsted, won her mastery back + And turn’d to sportive vengeance her defeat, + When with wise incantations wise Ulysses + She sang to sleep. + +ULYSSES + + There needed those more weary, + If not more wise, to wake him. + +CIRCE + + But meanwhile + My gentle partners, my sweet nymphs, I so + Imperilling left—that same mischance whereof + With a vague prescience more than once I warn’d them— + In these new toils ensnared, when the spell broke, + To droop as their own clipt flowers. + +[_While the last few words are pronounced there has been brisk talking, +not distinctly overheard, on the part of the other group._] + +THERMIA + + [_Loudly_] O, for shame, Philemon! What a thing to say! + +PHILINNA + + [_Passionately_] ’Tis _he_; ’tis he himself cares not! + +CIRCE + +[_Turning toward the veranda, where PHILEMON and XENIAS have just risen +to their feet_] + + Ah, now! what coil is this? Philinna, speak! + +THERMIA + + O Circe! ’tis Philemon—and Xenias too; they say + We are but women’s women: at the last moment + (They tell us) we choose _you_! + +CIRCE + + O foolish children! + Must your vain quarreling blight such hours as these!— + But whither? Philemon! Xenias! will you leave us? + +PHILEMON + + ’Tis only, my lady, a certain business calls us forth expressly + at this time. + +ULYSSES + + So, my men? A strange time for business, is it not? + +XENIAS + + It were so, sir, but for a slight affair of our own, to which + we should properly give our attention by high moonlight only. + +CIRCE + + [_Laughing_] Holy Diana! Have they, too, turned to magic? + +XENIAS + + Pray excuse us, all! + +[_The two young men go out by the Right corner. PHILINNA, bending over +the table, covers her face with her hands, while THERMIA rising attempts +to soothe her._] + +CIRCE + + O, mind not, dear Philinna, his hasty words! + Though heartless sounding, they did rather prove + The same concern that draws thine own tears now. + Lead her within; thou canst console her, Thermia: + Thy stronger courage will avail. + +[_The two nymphs go into the palace._] + +ULYSSES + + Circe, I like not this foolery of the high moonlight. Though it + be a trifle ludicrous, the lads seemed right serious about it + nevertheless. ’Tis unlike Philemon. I like it not. + +CIRCE + + O put the thought aside, Ulysses! + It is some youthful prank, or a mere jest + Fresh-coin’d with sober mouth. Nor falls amiss + Thus on the girl’s untried, too tender spirit + Some jar and crossing ere the final shock, + So to forestall and break it. + And this moon! + Well she deserves, Ulysses, in thy sight. + Have we not sought ourselves her soothing spell? + Masking a farewell colloquy in smiles, + As yonder silver’d wave-tips feign deliverance + From the encircling gloom of envious night. + Ah! if thou didst but know, + Son of Laertes, half the struggles that wait thee + By Neptune’s billowy realm and, rescued thence, + In deadly strife at thy rude island-home, + Then wouldst thou feel, perchance, less haste to leave + Circe, the frail enchantress.—Ay, not all + The signs to guide and perils that impend + Canst thou learn now. Some, long in mystery wrapt + (Nor wouldst thou choose to speed them), time will teach; + Others, from ghostly lips compell’d, when soon, + By Ocean’s stream thy lone bark moor’d, thou standest + At the dark doors of Hades to evoke + Theban Tiresias’ shade, the seer shall utter. + +ULYSSES + + Dread Circe! + O strange, unpitying prophetess, no mortal + Reaches by sail or oar that awful strand. + +CIRCE + + Thou shalt be one, Ulysses, who, twice dying, + Twice lives to rue his birth.—But hearken; + And on the mindful tablets of thy soul + Grave these my warnings. Back from the sunless shore + Of pale Persephone the refluent tide + Will bear thy bark unurged: till, facing + The ruddy sources of recover’d day, + Fresh-waken’d breath of quickening winds she feels + Smite on her listless sail. So hold her prow, + Toward Eos striving surely, from my isle + Farther and farther speeding. + +ULYSSES + + But how soon? + How soon, O Circe, may our glad eyes behold + Some signal of known lands? + +CIRCE + + So much not yet + May be unveil’d; nor yet, what remnant lingers + Of crew or vessel until that hour.—But hear, + How (lest their doom be hasten’d) on thy helmsman, + When ’twixt unlovely neighbors he must steer, + The crisis hangs. On this side Scylla lurks, + Snarling in her cliff-cavern; on that, Charybdis + Retches, with swirling gorge. Thrice happy he + Who, nor to the right inclining nor the left, + Cleaves straight the midway mark with even keel. + +ULYSSES + + But why not of the engulfing pest steer wide + And with arm’d hand fend off the other’s onset? + +CIRCE + + Ah! + Thus do presumptuous mortals vaunt their cunning, + Or vain force, where alone swift vision wins.— + If, then, alternate ruin ye elude, + In some part scatheless, sweep with thankful hearts + The gleaming waters’ wide unbroken waste. + Then soon, Ulysses, as to my lay thou only + Mightst listen and be saved, even so alone + May’st thou, safe sailing, hear the Sirens’ song. + +ULYSSES + + Breathe any so sweet a strain as that, O Circe, + Which binds the caller at the moaning porch? + +CIRCE + + Not binds, but draws! No sense-benumbing spell + Boast the sea-maidens, nor themselves are fair. + Their theme, what men call _glory_; and the strain, + Bell-like, o’er the hush’d seas far pealing, calls + With a resistless summons to their shore. + It, with white skulls and rotting wreckage lined. + Thou shalt speed by, yet hear. Lash’d to the mast + By thy men’s hands—themselves with wax-stopt ears— + Bid them, when thou with frantic dumb entreaty + Wouldst sign their stroke toward that melodious lure, + Pull stronger and swerve not, with firmer bonds + Lashing thee still, while yet one echo + Of siren-voices lingers. + +ULYSSES + + Circe, full long + Thy tale of helps and hazards, though not few + Still on their fixt oracular moment wait. + Be these enough, while courage step by step, + Conning each several danger, learn to face it. + +CIRCE + + ’Tis well. + +[_Thus far CIRCE has been reclining, with occasional changes of attitude +due to the earnestness of her discourse. She now rises to a sitting +posture._] + + [_Laughing_] But forget not, most prudent captain, + The risks thy moonstruck followers would invite + In these my precincts! + +[_She gives her hand to ULYSSES, who assists her to rise._] + + It were worth while to note + Their traces. Come; they went this way. + +[_She leads out at the Right, ULYSSES following with downward thoughtful +look._] + + +IV + +The grove upon sloping ground, at noon of the day following the previous +scene.—Enter from the Left downward MYRTO leading _Mikkos_. With a glance +toward the path on the Right she seats herself under the tree by which +MERCURY appeared to ULYSSES, while the ape, whose chain MYRTO continues +to hold, swings himself to a low branch above her. + +MYRTO + + Well, Mikkos, they are not here yet.—But Graea never loiters + and they will soon come. Now I charge thee once again; and be + thou, as a reflecting animal, less slow to curb thy native + animosities, Mikkos! Look not upon Eurylochus as thine enemy, + receiving him with angry and unseemly gestures. Eurylochus + is our friend to-day; and his co-operation in the present + emergency is invaluable.—Hear’st thou, Mikkos? [_The ape grins + and wags his head._] Very well; now conduct thyself like a + rational being! I hear them coming. + +[_Enter from the Right upward EURYLOCHUS, followed closely by GRAEA. The +former, after a suspicious glance at_ Mikkos, _who shows his teeth and +tries to shake his chain, turns inquiringly toward MYRTO who remains +seated while the others stand._] + +EURYLOCHUS + + Graea has by her signs made known to me, Myrto, that you would + have me attend you here at this time; and I have inferred from + the earnestness of her manner that the message is of importance. + +MYRTO + + Important indeed it is, Eurylochus: I need your assistance; + and not for myself alone—perchance even somewhat for thine own + weal; but especially on behalf of the lady Circe and all of us + her poor companions—whom to be sure thou lovest not. + +EURYLOCHUS + + One may love not, Myrto, and yet be nowise lacking in + good-will. You would not have called in an unfriendly hand to + aid you. + +MYRTO + + In the present matter at any rate thou wilt be sure to side + with us.—Wouldst thou choose to take one of us home with thee + in the ship, Eurylochus? + +EURYLOCHUS + + How? What? Forbid it, mighty Apollo! Is your mind wandering, + Myrto? + +MYRTO + + It is not I, but a pair of your pretty comrades whose wits are + wandering; for they would carry away Philinna, unbeknown to + Ulysses and the rest of you, hiding her in the vessel. + +EURYLOCHUS + + Ah! we know of Philemon’s madness—and the girl consents to this? + +MYRTO + + No indeed! they will put her to sleep with Circe’s drug— + +EURYLOCHUS + + [_Interrupting_] O Heracles! + +MYRTO + + And so bring her aboard the ship to-night, while you are all at + the palace partaking of the farewell feast. + +EURYLOCHUS + + Then if you have discovered this plot, why not warn her + straightway and cut it short? + +MYRTO + + Not so, Eurylochus! + +[_MYRTO rises and addresses herself earnestly to him._] + + Not till the latest moment must Philinna + Perceive the strange and treacherous design + Of him she loves, who, if he loved her less, + Would spurn the trick his clever mate has taught him. + Now hear me; and observe + How thou shalt aid us, with least harm to foil + This harmful scheme. Nothing the herb itself + Of baneful sort to mind or body works: + But whoso of its fragrance breathes in slumber, + For six-and-thirty hours wakes not again, + Nor feels, nor can be roused. They hold its leaves + Gather’d beneath pale moonbeams, when the plant + Best cools its juices and conserves its force. + These they will bruise and spread + About the pillow of Philinna’s couch, + Where she each day—now at this very hour—Seeks + her brief noontide sleep: by the moss’d bank + So near the waterfall its gauzy spray + Like an ethereal veil enshrouds the bower + Where our companion rests; and muffled tones, + Voiced by perpetual whirling waters, soothe + The slumberer’s ear. Of vines her bed is join’d: + Gnarl’d stems which from the vineyard pruning once + We fashion’d to a woodland couch, to sit + And watch the headlong stream. This lifting + (So Graea heard them whisper) they will bear + With its fond burden shoreward ere the dawn, + While yet ye feast and revel. And they hope + To hold her hidden (nor will she wake) until + Too far at sea the flying ship hath sped + For ruth or reparation. + +EURYLOCHUS + + O great gods! + Herself by good rights, waking then, should rue + Her wanton witcheries. + +MYRTO + + Peace, Eurylochus; peace! + Perverse and all one-sided is thy sense: + On the other side thy mother bore thee blind. + Not yet hast thou been taught the part thou playest + In the prevention.—At the feast this night, + Ere the two plotters to their work slip out, + I at my wheel (whom thou wilt watch) shall give thee + This sign—with finger prest to lip: whereat + Thyself withdrawing noiselessly to join + Graea who waits without, with her wilt hie + To poor Philinna’s bower: and both shall bear + Hillward by the back path the couch and sleeper + Into the banquet-hall to Circe. + +EURYLOCHUS + + And what revenge + Will Circe wreak upon the thieves? + +MYRTO + + Circe is wise; + Needs not our counsel.—And, Eurylochus, mark: + Thy secrecy here will stand thee in good stead. + A narrow pathway tread ye all, so long + In this round isle ye linger! Go; and be mindful!— + +[_EURYLOCHUS goes out at the Right downward._] + + Now, Graea—for thy sharp ear no caution needs,— + His part and thine are fixt. And further, Graea; + When chilly night descends, visit her bower + And lay soft fleeces o’er Philinna’s form, + Sheltering her deep dishonest sleep. + +[_GRAEA by signs gives her assent_, Mikkos _jumps down from the tree, and +all go out by the Left upward._] + + +V + +The same as the first scene of the play. The Front of the Palace in the +afternoon. The porch and its steps are already in the shade. The curtain +rising discovers THERMIA seated upon one of the lower steps thoughtfully +regarding the fountain, which plays faintly. Enter MYRTO upon the porch +from within. + +MYRTO + + [_Taking her seat upon a step_] Yes, there is shade here now; + Circe will come soon. + +THERMIA + + I know not why I feel so anxious, Myrto,—wondering what + communication you can have to make while Ulysses and his men + are away at the lading of their vessel. + +MYRTO + + Now pray, Thermia, if what I shall say to Circe startle you + in some degree, restrain yourself and show not perturbation. + Circe, as you well know, likes not hasty suggestion in what + concerns her deeply. + +THERMIA + + ’Tis true; I will be prudent. O, what can it be? + +MYRTO + + Wait; here she comes now. + +[_CIRCE entering descends the stairs to a seat just within the +lengthening shadow by the fountain. She wears her canary-colored tunic, +but not the black robe._] + +CIRCE + + [_Turning toward the stairs_] Myrto! Thermia! Where is Philinna? + +MYRTO + + She sleeps, my lady. + +CIRCE + + Sleeps still? ’Tis past midday more than two hours! + Philinna is wont to sleep soundly, but not long. + +MYRTO + + She will sleep long this time, Circe: Philinna will not wake + to-day. + +CIRCE + + [_Starting to her feet_] What! Not wake to-day? Dost thou + trifle with me, girl? + +MYRTO + + Indeed I do not trifle with you. But fear not, dear lady; there + has been mischief, but harm will not come to Philinna. + +CIRCE + + Mischief—mischief? Methinks I divine somewhat. But speak; + explain thyself forthwith! + +MYRTO + + They have given her the sleeping-plant which last night they + gathered under the moon. + +THERMIA + + [_To herself_] Ah, I see my precious Xenias’ finger here; the + traitor! + +CIRCE + + O! O! Audacious, shameless souls! + With my own drugs would they outwit me? O! + I see! I see! Thus they will _steal_ Philinna. + But holy Diana! [_Laughing scornfully_] So sly, and yet so simple! + They were twice foil’d, ere such a plot could prosper. + +MYRTO + + Truly there needs small skill to circumvent them: + Such I have summon’d. + +CIRCE + + But the herb? + +MYRTO + + I show’d them. + +CIRCE + + What? Myrto, Myrto! + +MYRTO + + Stay; hear me, Circe. + Their plan I knew beforehand; and ’twas better + _She_ knew it not; should rather sleep; nor wake + Till the whole farce were play’d—seest thou, my lady? + +CIRCE + + O clever Myrto! Not in vain thou sittest + Demurely by thy wheel, as if its hum + And spinster’s sordid finger-work were all + Thy wits could compass!—thou, the nixie-born; + With newts and water-beetles nurtured!—But how + Came it to light? + +MYRTO + + They came to me, + To find for them the herb. The tale they told, + How, when the ship had sail’d, among themselves + Some sport they would devise. But Graea already + Had overheard their whisperings and advised me. + +THERMIA + + Graea is everywhere and hears all things! + +CIRCE + + Hush, Thermia! + +MYRTO + + Because she hath no tongue they do forget + Her sharpen’d ears.—Safely Philinna sleeps; + And to your side shall she be brought to-night + During the banquet. + +CIRCE + + Ah! ah! + +THERMIA + + And will they dare, finding her not, + To wait for such an issue? + +CIRCE + + Whither pray + Might they seek refuge?—Two alone are guilty; + And two alone shall answer for the guilt; + Nor shall the feast be marr’d. Go now; + And urge its preparation. + +[_The two nymphs go into the palace._] + +CIRCE + + Poor purblind men! + O, how short of the mark their vision falls! + Phantoms, bred of precipitate desire, + Aiming to grasp, but comprehending not + The check and natural limit.—So the same + At whose achievement we should rave, in failure + We pity and forgive. Ay; to know more + And to see farther than for themselves they see + Doth make forbearance easy. How would they change + For sweet Philinna’s rainbow-guarded sleep + Their own long slumber in the fishy deep! + +[_She ascends the steps and goes into the palace._] + + +VI + +The banquet-hall late at night. The feasting is near its end and the +wine has begun to be poured at the farewell entertainment given by CIRCE +to her guests in the last hours before they set sail. The Enchantress +sits at the head of her table, wearing her black robe and coronal of +pearls. THERMIA and MYRTO are in their usual places; but PHILINNA is +absent and the throne at CIRCE’S left has been removed. ULYSSES sits at +the head of the table by the dais. His demeanor is serious; but the men +though orderly are in high spirits as they join in the chorus, with the +exception of PHILEMON and XENIAS, who seem pre-occupied, seated together +near the exit behind ULYSSES. EURYLOCHUS is so placed as to face MYRTO +at her wheel. The first chorus following is sung before the rise of the +curtain. + +(_Chorus of men’s voices behind the scenes_) + + Never fear for your ship if you handle her right; + She will scamper all day and eats nothing at night. + Stick her nose in the sand, she is safe in the stall; + She’s a carriage and horses and stable and all. + +[_Curtain rises_] + +GLAUCUS + + [_Sings_] We sampled his cheeses and bunk’d in his den, + But when he came home he ate six of our men.— + “People don’t come a-foot when they come to see me: + Now where did you leave the old frigate?” cried he. + + (_Chorus_) + +GLAUCUS + + It was a big pickle, we forged a big lie: + “A thunderbolt struck her, Sir Cyclops,” said I; + “Tore a hole in her timbers as wide as a door; + She sank to the bottom and we swam ashore.” + + (_Chorus_) + +GLAUCUS + + So we punch’d out his eye with a stake while he snored, + Then broke for the landing and scrambled aboard.— + His rock was a load for a twenty-mule team: + “Heave hard there”! I shouted; “heave hard, Polypheme!” + + (_Chorus_) + +GLAUCUS + + First time he shot high; and the swashing great wave + Sent her back on a dance to the mouth of his cave. + His second fell short: ’twas a booster behind + And scooted her for’ard, quite well to our mind. + + (_Chorus_) + + Never fear for your ship if you handle her right; + She will scamper all day and eats nothing at night. + Stick her nose in the sand, she is safe in the stall; + She’s a carriage and horses and stable and all. + +CIRCE + + Our friend Glaucus would usurp the role of his captain, + apparently, when he celebrates that famous scene, Ulysses. + +ULYSSES + + And right welcome is he to any glory he may borrow therefrom. + Verily there was little enough for me to boast of in the + adventure. + +GLAUCUS + + It’s true the commander got us into the scrape, madam, if he + will allow me; but there would need a longer song than any we + have sung yet to tell the whole story, how cleverly he got us + out of it. + +THERON + + Damme! a great song! Not a word about the tipple that did it + all! + +ELPENOR + + And the sheep-ride too. + +A VOICE + + Ay, ay!—’twas the tipple that did for him. Let the old sinner + play blind-man’s buff with his bell-wether now! + +ULYSSES + + Enough! + Now the cry homeward and the forward glance + Shall banish retrospect. These claim our care. + Fair winds suffice not; + Nor the good hopes by gracious friends inspired, + Where prudent counsel fails. + +CIRCE + + Most timely said! + Experience ends not with each wondrous hap. + Ye know not yet, good men, your several fates + Cradled beyond my island’s guardian pale. + Obedience and true caution shall avail you + Not less because your course be pointed clear. + These save while they endure.— + But now our ancient welcome is exchanged + For farewell greetings. Nor indeed comes song + Amiss at such an hour. + +[_She claps her hands twice and THRATTIS enters with her lute, standing +by the sideboard. While the attention of all is thus drawn away MYRTO +gives the sign to EURYLOCHUS, who slips out unobserved._] + +CIRCE + + Our guests have just sung a gay song in honor of their ship, + Thrattis. Perchance thou canst match it with one from thine own + store. + +[_THRATTIS smiles faintly and begins a slow prelude upon her instrument +in a minor key._] + +ELPENOR + + She knows how to make it cry. + +THERON + + Hush, boy; mar not the music! + +[_The girl sings slowly with irregular pauses and interludes at +significant points in the recital. The music itself is marked by +chromatic changes, with the last two stanzas taking on distinctly the +character of a funeral march. Before that part of the performance is +reached PHILEMON and XENIAS, taking advantage of the rapt attention of +the company, steal out unnoticed._] + +THRATTIS + + Sea-wind o’er the ripples crept; + His cool breath my temples swept; + Sea-wind whisper’d, as I slept + Near to the wave. + From his caverns, hollow-toned, + Sea-wind mock’d my dream and moan’d. + In my sleep I turn’d and groan’d + As in the grave. + Through lank grasses, swaying slow, + Peering with green eyes a-glow + Sea-wind stole and mutter’d low: + “Wake not! sleep on, + If my vision thou wouldst share:— + The split mast; the lightning’s glare; + Shrouds whirl’d wildly in mid-air! + See! her helm gone, + The vessel plunges. Lo! again + Caught by the deadly hurricane, + Crackling bolt and hissing rain, + The hull spins round; + Breaks, sinks! One man breasts the tide; + Clutches spar and climbs astride; + A sea-courser seems to ride.— + Vague depths profound + With white feet the others tread; + Seek on ocean’s floor their bed; + Or, to rude shores blindly led, + Full nigh they draw; + Ram-like, butt the flinty stones. + The gray sea a dirge intones, + Whilst the fat casing of their bones + Dumb fishes gnaw.” + +ULYSSES + +[_After a pause, when the chords struck in conclusion of the song have +ceased to sound_] + + The maid hath not sailed the south seas in vain, upon my soul, + Circe! + +GLAUCUS + + By the twin gods, ye would think she came straight from Davy + Jones’ locker, let out alive! + +CIRCE + + ’Tis a brief step from life to death: why then + Shall not the venturous errant fancy feign it + Thrice taken and retraced? From death to life + Were as from sleep to waking; nor, if dreams + Might linger on the skirts of such a change, + Should they unheeded pass.— + +The words of CIRCE are interrupted by the entrance at the Right rear +doorway of EURYLOCHUS and GRAEA bearing the rustic couch upon which the +form of PHILINNA is extended as upon a bier. As they enter, GRAEA, who +sustains the rear end at the head of the sleeper, swings to her right +backward and the two bearers set the couch and its burden down by +CIRCE’S side in full view of the company. EURYLOCHUS quickly resumes his +seat among the men, while the swine-maiden, wearing her long whip coiled +as a girdle round her waist, retires to a position near the lute-girl, +where the two remain standing side by side. _Mikkos_, who had sprung into +the room close behind the bearers, is seized by MYRTO and tied fast with +shortened chain to the spokes of her wheel. The form and features of +PHILINNA are motionless as in death. She is clothed in her gauzy dress +of noonday. The banqueters in profound silence gaze with horror at the +apparition. CIRCE, laying hand upon her wand, faces her guests steadily +with a trace of irony in her look, while a few notes of solemn music fall +from the lute of THRATTIS. + +ULYSSES + +[_Half rising from his chair with gesture of inquiry and deprecation_] + + What!—Circe? Thy Philinna?—is this death? + Forbid it, ye kind gods! + +CIRCE + + Philinna?—or Philinna’s shade? + Ask thine own followers, great commander; ask + Pale Hecate’s twin votaries! + +ULYSSES + +[_Who has risen to his feet and scanning the company perceives for the +first time that not all his men are present_] + + Ha! what? Philemon? Xenias?—where? + +EURYLOCHUS + + [_Saluting_] They encountered us, sir, as we ascended hither + bearing the sleeping maid. They were on their way to seize her, + but when they saw themselves cheated of their prey they cried + out and fled incontinently to the woods. + +ULYSSES + + Great Zeus! no flight shall save them! Up, Eurylochus! + +[_With a stern gesture of command_] + + Take Glaucus and three others of your watch; go forth; seek + out, arrest the caitiffs! Put them in irons and wait for us on + board! + +[_EURYLOCHUS and GLAUCUS stand up, several other men spring to their feet +as volunteers_. Mikkos _exhibits excitement, and GRAEA slowly uncoils +the whip from her waist. THERMIA turns pale and cannot conceal her +agitation._] + +CIRCE + + [_Lifting her wand gently_] Hold, Ulysses! Hold! + Refrain; bend not thy thoughts to chains + Or cruel punishment. Are they not even now + By failure and humiliation scourged? + +ULYSSES + +[_To whom EURYLOCHUS and GLAUCUS are looking expectantly_] + + Never! Never! + +The door behind the dais opens, a golden light fills the passage-way thus +revealed, and MERCURY, brilliantly arrayed as in the second scene of the +play, stands forth upon the platform. His step gives no sound; and, as he +extends his hands (one holding the winged wand) gently forward over the +company, all the men feel the soothing influence without turning their +heads to observe its source; while ULYSSES, and the others who stand, +sink quietly to their seats in motionless attitude. ULYSSES slightly bows +his head. The inmates of the palace are not affected like the guests; +they maintain their former demeanor; but CIRCE lowers her hand with the +wand to the table before her. + +MERCURY + + By the Father sent + I come this time, to loose the tangled web + Of crossing motive, Circe, in thy bowers. + He in the scales of fate the fortunes weigh’d + Of these thy mortal visitors all, thine own, + Of thy beloved nymphs; and bade me speed, + Taking my wand, wherewith for woe or weal + I seal men’s eyes and, when I will, unseal. + + The offending youths—already are they + Themselves in closer toils of slumber caught + Than the charm’d herb upon the maiden brought. + At my behest their living phantoms glide; + Upward or downward their blind steps I guide. + +[_Without turning, the god raises his wand gently with backward movement +of the hands, and in the wide opening behind him the forms of PHILEMON +and XENIAS appear, standing side by side. Their eyes are closed; +their features pallid in the weird light; their look is of complete +unconsciousness. THRATTIS strikes major chords._] + + Their fault the Father pardons; and decrees + They shall be toss’d no more on billowy seas, + But to their lives’ end tread the enchanted soil + Which of its bloom they plotted to despoil. + +[_MERCURY sways the wand slowly from behind forward, and the two sleepers +(PHILEMON first, XENIAS close behind him) guided by the spell pass across +the dais, gliding down behind the banqueters until they reach a position +between THERMIA and PHILINNA’S couch. Their footsteps give no sound; +their movement is mechanical; in the place indicated they stand stiff and +motionless with closed eyes._] + +MERCURY + + Arise, Ulysses! + +[_ULYSSES stands up; and simultaneously his men all rise silently to +their feet._] + + Now thy waiting bark + Swims in the darkling haven; but full soon + Eos her saffron portals will unbar + And wake the convoy breezes. Tarry not!— + Thy crew the Father’s stern assignments claim; + I sign them to _march_, FORWARD! in his name. + +[_The funeral march which closed the song of THRATTIS is played softly, +and the men pass out behind MERCURY in single file, moving noiselessly +and with the utmost precision, as if under the hypnotizing influence +of the wand waved above them. The company of EURYLOCHUS marches first, +headed by their leader and GLAUCUS, THERON and ELPENOR bringing up the +rear. The other company, excepting PHILEMON and XENIAS, immediately +follows. ULYSSES, who has donned his helmet, begins to speak as the last +man passes and the music ceases._] + +ULYSSES + + To gloom of future fates beholden fast, + The parting hour yet beckons toward the past. + What blessings lay beneath rapt moments hidden + Now to the pictured memory rise unbidden; + Each, as with pointed stylus’ steely smart, + Prick’d and deep graven on the shrinking heart.— + Farewell! O sorceress benign, farewell! + He knows not _life_, who knows not CIRCE’S spell. + +[_ULYSSES turns and goes out. The music begins again in the major key. +MERCURY, poised upon one foot in an attitude similar to that presented +by a familiar statue of the god, leans far forward with wand pointed +straight at the sleepers. PHILINNA opens her eyes and slowly rises to +a sitting posture on her couch. PHILEMON and XENIAS open their eyes +and draw long breaths. PHILINNA, turning first toward CIRCE, with one +hand clasps the left hand of the Enchantress; then, with the other, +recognizing PHILEMON, takes his right. THERMIA, when XENIAS wakes, seizes +his left hand with her own, and with a joyous look lays her right upon +his shoulder. The two youths have themselves joined hands. MYRTO seated, +whom_ Mikkos _strives to reach, holds him firmly at arm’s length by the +collar. GRAEA, standing beside THRATTIS, whip in hand, glares fiercely at +the exit._ + +_The countenance of CIRCE is deeply sad. Her wand lies relinquished upon +the table. She continues to gaze, as if into vague distance, in the +direction of her departed guest._] + + +CURTAIN + +*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 78211 *** diff --git a/78211-h/78211-h.htm b/78211-h/78211-h.htm new file mode 100644 index 0000000..1e21479 --- /dev/null +++ b/78211-h/78211-h.htm @@ -0,0 +1,7762 @@ +<!DOCTYPE html> +<html lang="en"> +<head> + <meta charset="UTF-8"> + <title> + Circe | Project Gutenberg + </title> + <link rel="icon" href="images/cover.jpg" type="image/x-cover"> + <style> + +a { + text-decoration: none; +} + +body { + margin-left: 10%; + margin-right: 10%; +} + +h1,h2,h3 { + text-align: center; + clear: both; +} + +h2.nobreak { + page-break-before: avoid; +} + +hr.chap { + margin-top: 2em; + margin-bottom: 2em; + clear: both; + width: 65%; + margin-left: 17.5%; + margin-right: 17.5%; +} + +img.w100 { + width: 100%; +} + +div.chapter { + page-break-before: always; +} + +p { + margin-top: 0.5em; + text-align: justify; + margin-bottom: 0.5em; +} + +p.dropcap { + text-indent: 0; 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and after losing all but one +of his twelve ships, landed with the sole +remaining vessel upon the island of the +enchantress Circe, who transformed one-half of his ship’s +company, twenty-two in number, into swine. He relates +further that Ulysses, apprised by Mercury of the fate of his +companions, and furnished by the god with an antidote for +the spells of the sorceress, compelled her to restore his men +to their human shape. Thereupon, at the invitation of Circe +the rest of the crew join their mates at her palace, where all +spend a year in festivity and merry-making before proceeding +on their way with precise instructions from the +Enchantress regarding the homeward voyage.</p> + +<p>The experiences of Ulysses and his followers, as described in +the Odyssey, immediately previous to their arrival at the +Isle of Circe, had been of an extraordinary and alarming +character. A number of men had been devoured by Polyphemus +the Cyclops in his cave, where he had entrapped a +party, the survivors escaping by riding out, clasped under +the bellies of his sheep, after they had made the monster +drunk and blinded his one eye with a fiery stake. Later, +they came to the domain of Æolus, king of the winds, who +<span class="pagenum" id="Page_2">[2]</span>presented Ulysses with a number of bags holding the adverse +winds in confinement. But during the sleep of their commander, +when already near their native shore, some of the +men through curiosity untying the bags, the winds broke +loose and swept them back to Æolus, who drove them all +forth with contempt. They next encountered the Læstrygones, +a race of man-eating giants. Being shown the way to +the town by a daughter of the giant king, some men were +seized and devoured on the spot; while from an attack +made upon the ships collected in the harbor only one vessel +succeeded in escaping.</p> + +<p>No mention is made of Penelope, the wife of Ulysses, at any +point in the story of Circe; but we read that Ulysses lingered +in the enchanted island, until his men were finally compelled, +seizing an opportunity when Circe was away, to remonstrate +with their chief and rouse him to thoughts of a return to his +home.</p> + +<p>Homer says that the attendants of the Enchantress in her +palace were nymphs, such as derive their being from the +fountains, the groves, and the rivers flowing to the sea.</p> + +<p>The First Act of the play brings Ulysses and his companions +into Circe’s palace; the Second Act takes them out of it.</p> + +<figure class="figcenter illowp100" id="footer" style="max-width: 31.25em;"> + <img class="w100" src="images/footer.jpg" alt=""> +</figure> + +<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop"> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_3">[3]</span></p> + +<figure class="figcenter illowp100" id="halftitle" style="max-width: 31.25em;"> + <img class="w100" src="images/halftitle.jpg" alt=""> +</figure> + +<h1>CIRCE</h1> + +<p class="center larger"><i>A<br> +Dramatic Fantasy</i></p> + +<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop"> + +<div class="chapter"> + +<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_4"></a><a id="Page_5"></a>[5]</span></p> + +<figure class="figcenter illowp100" style="max-width: 43.75em;"> + <img class="w100" src="images/header2.jpg" alt=""> +</figure> + +<h2 class="nobreak" id="PERSONS_REPRESENTED">PERSONS REPRESENTED</h2> + +</div> + +<table> + <tr> + <td colspan="3">CIRCE, the Enchantress</td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td><span class="smcap">Philinna</span></td> + <td>}</td> + <td rowspan="3" class="valign">Nymphs, companions and attendants to Circe</td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td><span class="smcap">Thermia</span></td> + <td>}</td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td><span class="smcap">Myrto</span></td> + <td>}</td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td colspan="3"><span class="smcap">Thrattis</span>, the lute-girl</td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td colspan="3"><span class="smcap">Graea</span>, the dumb swine-maiden</td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td colspan="3">Other nymphs attending Circe</td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td colspan="3"><span class="smcap">Mikkos</span>, an ape</td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td colspan="3">ULYSSES, a Commander</td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td colspan="3"><span class="smcap">Eurylochus</span>, his mate</td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td colspan="3"><span class="smcap">Theron</span>, the ship’s cook</td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td colspan="3"><span class="smcap">Elpenor</span>, a feeble-minded youth, the cook’s assistant</td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td><span class="smcap">Glaucus</span></td> + <td>}</td> + <td rowspan="4" class="valign">Sailors</td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td><span class="smcap">Phorbas</span></td> + <td>}</td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td><span class="smcap">Philemon</span></td> + <td>}</td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td><span class="smcap">Xenias</span></td> + <td>}</td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td colspan="3">Other members of Ulysses’ ship’s-company</td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td colspan="3"><span class="smcap">Mercury</span>, Messenger of the Immortals and Luck-bringer to men</td> + </tr> +</table> + +<p><span class="smcap">The Place</span>: <i>A small +woody island, inhabited only by the Enchantress and her Nymphs, who +dwell in a palace at the centre and summit of the isle.</i></p> + +<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop"> + +<div class="chapter"> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_6">[6]</span></p> + +<figure class="figcenter illowp100" style="max-width: 43.75em;"> + <img class="w100" src="images/header-circe.jpg" alt="CIRCE"> +</figure> + +<h2 class="nobreak" id="ACT_I">ACT ONE</h2> + +<figure class="figcenter illowp100" style="max-width: 28.125em;"> + <img class="w100" src="images/header-act-one.jpg" alt="ACT ONE"> +</figure> + +<figure class="figcenter illowp100" style="max-width: 43.75em;"> + <img class="w100" src="images/header-the-first-act.jpg" alt="THE FIRST ACT"> +</figure> + +</div> + +<h3>I</h3> + +<div class="scene"> + +<div> +<img class="dropcap" src="images/dropcap-a.jpg" alt=""> +</div> + +<p class="dropcap">A preliminary scene of mute action. +The front of <span class="smcap">Circe’s</span> palace at the hour +just after sunset. The edifice is of variously +tinted stone, a combination of +several architectural masses. The windows +of the building are tall and very +narrow, overshadowed with creeping +plants. Its main entrance, at the Left of the Centre, is from +a massive porch with gargoyles of serpents at the corners of +its roof. The porch is reached by a flight of wide, low steps; +the doorway itself, low and wide, deeply receding and darkened +by the ample foliage of overhanging vines. The palace +faces eastward upon a smooth open court-yard enclosed by +a wall of stone with spacious gateway at the Right. The +entrance to the court at the Left corner of the building is +inconspicuous. At the main gateway there is artificial representation +of wolves and leopards as if tame and serving as +watchdogs. Behind the court-yard wall rise large trees throwing +deep shadows in the twilight. A fountain, dragon-shaped, +with circular basin, is centrally placed in the court, that is +just at the Right of the porch steps.</p> + +<p>As the curtain rises, a humming sound as of a swiftly +turned spinning-wheel is heard behind the scenes; and +<span class="pagenum" id="Page_7">[7]</span>presently the music of <span class="smcap">Circe’s</span> song (the words of which are +sung in a later Scene) is played upon flute and violin. The +fountain is playing, and its spray, rising and falling intermittently, +gleams with a golden light, occasionally changing +to a faint blue, and then becoming golden again. Some of the +serpentine gargoyles are seen to sway and writhe like living +snakes. A large <i>ape</i> emerges from a small window above the +porch, stands upon its roof at first erect like a man, then +poses upon all fours at the edge, trying to look underneath +into the doorway, and remains in this position. A glimpse +also is caught of the <i>Swine-maiden</i>, a tall, gaunt, witch-like +figure robed in gray, trailing behind her a very long cowhide +whip. Appearing suddenly from some place of concealment +she passes furtively and silently, with long strides, across +the Left corner and disappears behind the palace.</p> + +</div> + +<h3>II</h3> + +<div class="scene"> + +<p>Interior. The banquet-hall of <span class="smcap">Circe’s</span> palace. A long, low +apartment, clearly but not brilliantly illuminated by torch-wood +burning upon cressets in the rear, Right and Left. The +walls and ceiling of the room are of neutral tint, light shades, +but nowhere white; the decorations, of simple Grecian type. +Two wide entrances at the rear afford glimpses of a back +corridor dimly lighted; between these doors a large spinning-wheel +of fantastic pattern stands near the wall. On the +Right a curtained opening leads to the boudoir of <span class="smcap">Circe</span>; +and another door is situated further back on this side. On +the Left, directly opposite the boudoir, is an entrance from +an alcove or passage-way communicating with the porch; +<span class="pagenum" id="Page_8">[8]</span>in front of it a dais or platform, raised one step higher than +the floor of the apartment. Near another door far back on +the Left stands a large sideboard or buffet showing the usual +garniture. Between the boudoir and the dais, thus centrally +placed but a little forward, are two large, low tables nearly +square, standing end to end, but far enough apart to allow +free passage between them, and showing clearly the spinning-wheel +behind. Three tall armchairs or thrones stand, one at +the end of the table on the Left, in front of the dais; another +at the opposite end of the other table, by the entrance of the +boudoir; the third at the left hand of the second throne, +behind the table. There are numerous other small Greek +chairs without backs. Each table is spread with a light +brown cloth. Upon the table at the Right are several pieces +of plate and a low spreading vase of flowers near its centre; +a flagon and goblets upon the other table. As the curtain rises +the music ceases, but the humming of the wheel is continued. +<span class="smcap">Circe</span> is seen seated upon the throne at the head of the table +by her boudoir. Her slender golden wand is carelessly thrown +upon the table before her. Her black robe she has pushed +away from her shoulders over the back of her chair; but she +wears her coronal of pearls confining massy black hair, with +long, light, pearly veil depending from the diadem behind. +Her tunic is of canary-colored silk; she wears crimson sandals, +and a golden serpent bracelet encircles her left wrist.</p> + +<p><span class="smcap">Philinna</span>, a blonde, of beauty comparable to that of <span class="smcap">Circe</span> +herself, but of the opposite type, in dress and in all other +respects forming a contrast to the Enchantress, stands behind +the throne at her mistress’ left hand.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_9">[9]</span></p> + +<p>The place of <span class="smcap">Thermia</span>, a nymph of elegant figure and winsome +expression, is behind the table on the Left, near the +throne at its head by the dais.</p> + +<p><span class="smcap">Myrto</span>, who has dark hair like <span class="smcap">Circe</span>, but is of small stature +and not marked by especial beauty, sits facing the Enchantress +by the spinning-wheel, which, as she swiftly turns it, +gives forth the melodious hum that fills the air when the +curtain rises.</p> + +<p>The predominant color of <span class="smcap">Philinna’s</span> dress is mauve; of +<span class="smcap">Thermia’s</span>, azure; of <span class="smcap">Myrto’s</span>, dark green. Other nymphs +are drest in light gauzy material, never pure white. All wear +Grecian costume.</p> + +</div> + +<p class="dir"><i>As <span class="smcap">Circe</span> turns toward her with a slight gesture, +<span class="smcap">Myrto</span> stops the wheel.</i></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent12">Hush, Myrto; prithee stay</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Thy busy wheel awhile; I fain would listen</div> + <div class="verse indent0">To the mere silence—if that be silence, when</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Naught save the light-wing’d evening zephyr breathes</div> + <div class="verse indent0">His soft sea-voices through the piny boughs</div> + <div class="verse indent0">And the broad vine-leaf tinkles at the porch.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">No footfalls patter now; our thirsty questioners,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">After the sunset shadow falls, come not.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Truly ’twere vain, save by the day’s bright beam,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">To seek my mansion on this bowery summit<span class="pagenum" id="Page_10">[10]</span></div> + <div class="verse indent0">Through tangled briery paths and copse-wood dim—</div> + <div class="verse indent0">For the first time.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Philinna</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent20">Thou knowest well, dear lady,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">No second coming, save in four-footed guise,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Thy hand vouchsafes them.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent26">Ay, not twice the cup</div> + <div class="verse indent0">For the same drinker need we pour.—And, Myrto,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Remembered’st thou to cull the herbs I named,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Wolf’s-bane and hemlock and the rest?</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Myrto</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent38">Yes, lady.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">And stored and sorted all?</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Myrto</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent28">By the full moon</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Each kind I pluck’d; then, crosswise laid, I dried them<span class="pagenum" id="Page_11">[11]</span></div> + <div class="verse indent0">On the black adder-stone what hour no cloud</div> + <div class="verse indent0">The noonday welkin streak’d.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent28">’Tis well. Right soon</div> + <div class="verse indent0">I shall bruise more and brew their potions.</div> + <div class="verse indent16">[<i>After a brief pause</i>] Ah!</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Myrto; hast thou aught seen this season yet</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Of <i>moly</i> plant?</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Myrto</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent22">No sprig, since we dug forth</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Those three and to their root put fire.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Philinna</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent40">O Circe,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">What mortal can know moly? or, if found,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Might guess that straightening salutary force</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Which its pale blossom suckles?</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent32">Little indeed</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Know they or seem to reck, who find my door,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_12">[12]</span></div> + <div class="verse indent0">By the four winds or vague desire impell’d.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Not of the herbs alone, wherewith I work</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Transforming magic, and of their antidotes</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Is saving knowledge to human sense denied;</div> + <div class="verse indent0">But the mere man in equal measure lacks</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Perception of all that inner occult domain</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Which on my mystic vision rises clear</div> + <div class="verse indent0">And blends harmonious with material scenes.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Therefore, what mortals know I know more surely,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Crowning their wisdom with profounder lore.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">How oft do they who come, while at this board</div> + <div class="verse indent0">They swill and gloat, ere yet the damning cup</div> + <div class="verse indent0">I proffer, boast large deeds and prate of what</div> + <div class="verse indent0">They call <i>experience</i>—in the same breath imploring</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Guidance, which I with gracious hand might lend,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Seem’d they but worthy. [<i><span class="smcap">Philinna</span> nods assent.</i>]</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Thermia</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent12">Stands some one, Circe,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">At the porch door.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent18">Throw open; no mortal visitor</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Descends so deftly on us.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_13">[13]</span></p> + +<p class="dir">[<i>The door at the Left is opened by <span class="smcap">Thermia</span>, showing +a golden-gleaming light in the passage-way behind +it. Immediately <span class="smcap">Mercury</span> enters, standing as he +first speaks upon the dais. His winged serpent-twined +wand is brilliant with inlaid mother-of-pearl. +Dewdrops glisten upon the wings of his cap and +sandals. The mutual demeanor of <span class="smcap">Mercury</span> and +<span class="smcap">Circe</span> is friendly, but not familiar. Neither makes +show of deference toward the other. <span class="smcap">Mercury</span> does +not remove his cap. He takes no notice whatever of +the nymphs.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mercury</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent16">All-potent Circe,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Hail!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent6">Hail to thee, sir messenger! Be welcome;</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Tarry and taste our cheer.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i><span class="smcap">Mercury</span> seats himself upon the throne at the head +of the table near which he stands. <span class="smcap">Thermia</span> takes his +wand and lays it upon the table.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent28">The nectar, Thermia.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_14">[14]</span></p> + +<p class="dir">[<i><span class="smcap">Thermia</span> serves him from the sideboard and remains +standing in attendance.</i>]</p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Bring’st from the Olympian conclave, Mercury,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Tidings to us?</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mercury</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent16">Nay, nay; I do but pause</div> + <div class="verse indent0">On my mid-errand’s flight a restful moment</div> + <div class="verse indent0">At thy fair island-dome. Weary sometime</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Falls even the airy stride of winged feet,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">When at a stern omnipotent behest</div> + <div class="verse indent0">They spurn the mountain’s serried brow, plunge down,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Skimming innumerable waves, and ride</div> + <div class="verse indent0">From land to land the brindled ocean’s back.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">But, Mistress Circe, this enchanted isle,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Topp’d by thy mansion, doth like a stepping-stone</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Betwixt the shores of dawn and vesper lie,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">At the convergent centre of all streams.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">What roving bark shall miss it?</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent32">Sooner or later</div> + <div class="verse indent0">’Tis true each wanderer this way passes; nor,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Our gate once spied and hospitable song</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Heard trilling, turns he back.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_15">[15]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mercury</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent30">I am reminded,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Whereof I once made mention, again to speak.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Fail not to pour thy strongest draught, fair Circe,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">When sage <i>Ulysses</i> heeds the languorous strain.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">So said’st thou; I recall it. And some potions</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Do stronger flow an hundred-fold than others.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mercury</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Even so one human counsel another o’er-tops</div> + <div class="verse indent0">By infinite measure.—But ’tis time to speed</div> + <div class="verse indent0">And set a finish on this world-spanning errand.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i><span class="smcap">Thermia</span> hands <span class="smcap">Mercury</span> his wand as he rises +from the throne and steps upon the dais.</i>]</p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Now for the star-strewn roadways of the sky,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">By the dun cloud-edge, where fork’d lightnings fly.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Farewell!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Farewell, sir messenger! [<i>Exit <span class="smcap">Mercury</span>.</i>]</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Philinna</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent2">[<i>After a pause</i>] Dear lady Circe,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Wherefore for us at eve dost thou ne’er lift<span class="pagenum" id="Page_16">[16]</span></div> + <div class="verse indent0">Thy voice in sweetest song, like that whose spell</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Binds the doom’d callers at the moaning porch?</div> + <div class="verse indent0">So might we taste the charm and spare the bane.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">O sit, Philinna, and mark you!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i><span class="smcap">Philinna</span> seats herself in the throne near <span class="smcap">Circe</span>. +At the same time <span class="smcap">Thermia</span> takes her seat upon one +of the chairs at the other table, resting her left arm +on the table.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">’Tis not at will those tuneful notes upwelling</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Burst from this bosom’s prison, when once the joy</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Of fierce enslaving mastery sets them free.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">I see not his approach who draweth nigh,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Like the limed bird in cruel toils to stick,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">And whom the poison’d chalice straight transforms</div> + <div class="verse indent0">To brutal shape:—I do not see them come;</div> + <div class="verse indent0">But by a sudden thrill inspired to sing,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">With a strange consciousness of quicken’d power,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Then <i>know</i> I, and need not look.—Hath e’er one song</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Fail’d of response, Philinna?</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_17">[17]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Thermia</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent30">Not one; O, never!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Myrto</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">How could it otherwise befall?</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent30">There be</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Others in whom by native hap are planted</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Some powers of vulgar sorcery: whom it profits</div> + <div class="verse indent0">On magic wheel to lash the skewer’d wryneck;</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Who their unlovely droning measures vaunt</div> + <div class="verse indent0">To burst the clammy serpent in the mead,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Or from her seat pull down the horned moon.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">But to their sordid craft my arts compare</div> + <div class="verse indent0">As sunbeams to a sputtering pitchy torch.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">When <i>we</i> the human prowler quell and tame,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">We work illumination!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Philinna</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent22">Yet sometimes</div> + <div class="verse indent0">They shine with princely mien. Even as Mercury</div> + <div class="verse indent0">In face and stature were those two comely youths</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Thou once didst change to wolves.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_18">[18]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent34">’Twas their true shape!</div> + <div class="verse indent0">The godlike figure hath to mankind been lent,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Which they abuse to cloak an inner core</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Of bestial motive. Therefore it is to scatter</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Light over darkness, when my cunning drugs</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Make the shell match the kernel. No longer then,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Once the true emblem on his visage stamp’d,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Doth the pretender with mock daring flourish:</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Unmask’d, he slinks and cowers.—The most, indeed,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Are of mere swinish habit; and for them</div> + <div class="verse indent0">The pointed snout suffices and rough hide.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">But some—[<i>With mock seriousness</i>] Thou dream’st not, sweet Philinna,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">How cruelly those same youths, but for my spell,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Had rent us both!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Myrto</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent6">[<i>Gravely</i>] Ay, true; didst thou not mark,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Philinna, what hungry looks they bent upon</div> + <div class="verse indent0">The lady Circe, even while they drank? ’Twas not</div> + <div class="verse indent0">The fragrant wine-cup drew them, but o’er its rim</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Her neck they scann’d and watch’d the hand and arm<span class="pagenum" id="Page_19">[19]</span></div> + <div class="verse indent0">That reach’d the potion. So had they gazed on thee,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">If Circe sat not by.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Philinna</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent22">Ah, Myrto; how</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Could I the right herb choose and guide the beaker?</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Or wield the magic wand!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Thermia</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">[<i>Holding up her hands</i>] O simple, simple!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">[<i>Warmly</i>] Thy beauty and my love for thee, Philinna,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Are of a piece; both do transcend the limit</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Of usual quality. For, without thee, I</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Should seem to hover in a stale vacant world;</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Whilst thou, arm’d with no wand or secret drug,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Unconscious and unskill’d, canst oft divert</div> + <div class="verse indent0">The most admiring, ardent, rapt regards</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Away from the famed Circe—deem’d forsooth</div> + <div class="verse indent0">To win by her sheer woman’s charm not less</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Than by shrewd arts. It is perchance the reason</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Why thou art dear, because no studied guile<span class="pagenum" id="Page_20">[20]</span></div> + <div class="verse indent0">Can in thy breast find lodgement. Oft we crave</div> + <div class="verse indent0">That in a friend which our own temper lacks;</div> + <div class="verse indent0">And the two mingle to a more perfect being</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Than either by itself.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i>Laying her left hand upon <span class="smcap">Philinna’s</span> right arm</i>]</p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent22">’Tis pure simplicity</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Framed as a smiling goddess at my elbow.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Myrto</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">[<i>Gravely</i>] Dear lady Circe, may the gods preserve her,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Shouldst thou in turn e’er fail at her right hand</div> + <div class="verse indent0">To sit with guardian thoughts.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Thermia</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent30">Nay, Myrto!</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Stand we not all in like need of that shelter</div> + <div class="verse indent0">And sweet assurement which no other hand</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Than Circe’s can dispense? ’Tis the good spell</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Her bright superior spirit weaves round us, lends</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Fragrance and bloom to our sequester’d lives.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">What, but for that enrichment, would import</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Fair skies and shady bowers?—But these mock dangers<span class="pagenum" id="Page_21">[21]</span></div> + <div class="verse indent0">Are but the flounce and garnish of our pastime.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Your mighty men I find more vain than valiant.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Didst thou fear Mikkos, Myrto, in his former,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Native habiliment?</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Myrto</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent6">[<i>Laughing</i>] O Thermia, he was terrible!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Thermia</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">And that sleek scrivener, who serves now as one</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Of our gate leopards—was it a peril when he,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Before his lips touch’d the transforming potion,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Offer’d me marriage?</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Philinna</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent20">But what <i>is</i> marriage, Thermia?</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Thermia</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">It is as if a clever craftsman built</div> + <div class="verse indent0">A cage round Circe and yourself, then lock’d</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Its door upon you both and flung the key</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Under the fountain.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Philinna</span></p> + +<p class="dir">[<i>Springing from her chair and drawing back behind it</i>]</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_22">[22]</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent20">Holy Diana!</div> + <div class="verse indent0">I should break out and fly like Circe’s peacock</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Into the beech-tree by the spring.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent22">[<i>Laughing</i>] O children, children!</div> + <div class="verse indent0">How will ye all most learnedly discourse,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Where ye know least? There lurks indeed small peril</div> + <div class="verse indent0">To your fair persons, but the danger hits</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Your unsophisticated silly souls.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Some men there be, whose fervid, flattering words</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Would fluster and bedazzle you, till all</div> + <div class="verse indent0">This tranquil sweet companionship should vanish,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">As the light puffy thistle-down dispell’d,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Leaving a weary lone unrest behind it.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">It is my swift preventing magic catches</div> + <div class="verse indent0">And tangles their approach. We are too quick</div> + <div class="verse indent0">For them; nor shall they soon outspeed us.—Yet</div> + <div class="verse indent0">My brother, the great magician, told me once,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">That if a drug e’er fail’d me and work’d not</div> + <div class="verse indent0">For any cause its proper due effects,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Then we stood liable to some counter-spell</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Of similar assignment. And he cited</div> + <div class="verse indent0">My cousin Medea’s strange unhappy story.<span class="pagenum" id="Page_23">[23]</span></div> + <div class="verse indent12">[<i>To <span class="smcap">Philinna</span>, playfully</i>] So;</div> + <div class="verse indent0">When the poor Circe faints, Philinna, thou</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Wouldst fly off and desert her?</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Philinna</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent32">O no! not</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Without the cage.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent6">[<i>Laughing</i>] No; I am sure</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Whate’er befalls, Philinna will be faithful.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Thermia</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">[<i>Seriously</i>] She will indeed, my lady!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Of faith and love there is no dearth among us,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Though scant occasion offer which might put</div> + <div class="verse indent0">A true friend’s temper to the test. For here</div> + <div class="verse indent0">The spirit of petty jangling sits aloof</div> + <div class="verse indent0">And common pastime smooths the tripping hours.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Its spice is in the hazard. It were indeed</div> + <div class="verse indent0">A dull domain on Circe’s isle, flow’d not</div> + <div class="verse indent0">The petulant human throng up to our door.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">For fail’d we to suppress them, we ourselves</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Might share that wearisome slow life which men<span class="pagenum" id="Page_24">[24]</span></div> + <div class="verse indent0">Owe to their fleeting, vain, unsteady loves.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">O verily they should thank us!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i><span class="smcap">Circe</span> leans back in her chair, playing with the wand +that lies on the table. Then straightening up and +looking across the room she claps her hands twice. +Directly the lute-girl <span class="smcap">Thrattis</span> enters at the Left +corner. She stands leaning against the sideboard and +strikes chords upon her instrument as prelude.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Myrto</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">O Circe, may Mikkos dance to-night?</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Yes, child.—Poor Mikkos! His dancing days were over</div> + <div class="verse indent0">When first he sought us and became our patient.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Now they begin anew.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i>She signs to <span class="smcap">Thrattis</span>, who begins a dancing tune. +Other music is heard in accord with the lute. <span class="smcap">Philinna</span> +and <span class="smcap">Thermia</span> dance, not as partners, but +singly, with Grecian or Turkish movement, passing +round alternately between the tables and in front and +behind them. <span class="smcap">Circe</span> leans back and looks on with +evident pleasure, beating time informally with her +<span class="pagenum" id="Page_25">[25]</span>wand. Immediately when the dancing begins, <span class="smcap">Myrto</span> +runs out at the Right centre for</i> Mikkos; <i>but at the +same time</i> Mikkos <i>darts in at the Left centre, drops +into <span class="smcap">Myrto’s</span> seat, and begins to turn her wheel. +The ape wears a handsome collar with about four +feet of light brass chain hanging from it. <span class="smcap">Myrto</span> +follows laughing, seizes the chain, and pulling</i> +Mikkos <i>to his feet the girl and the ape dance, confining +themselves to the back part of the room. <span class="smcap">Myrto’s</span> +dancing is similar to that of the other two nymphs, +except that she does not display the same arm movements</i>. +Mikkos <i>dances only as an ordinary trained +simian might succeed in doing. Next, <span class="smcap">Graea</span> the +swine-maiden enters at the Right centre and joins in +the performance. Her dancing, which she confines to +the corner of the room opposite <span class="smcap">Thrattis</span>, consists in +snaky, gyratory movements, stooping and with long +steps trailing her great whip slowly in circles upon +the floor.—Presently <span class="smcap">Circe</span>, drawing her black robe +over her shoulders, still holding the wand, rises from +her throne. The music ceases. <span class="smcap">Thrattis</span></i>, Mikkos, +<i>and <span class="smcap">Graea</span> disappear, and the three nymphs come +to a standstill at about their usual places in the room.</i>]</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_26">[26]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">[<i>To her nymphs</i>] Thus merry our lives, through the whole endless round</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Of blithe days and the placid restful nights</div> + <div class="verse indent0">That top their radiance. How ye are blest, forsooth</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Ye cannot know, because that bliss transcends</div> + <div class="verse indent0">All ken and inquisition. It is some part</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Of the vast natural world instill’d and moulded</div> + <div class="verse indent0">In your fair forms divine, whereto small fleck</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Of human taint hath fallen; but an ethereal</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Kinship of cloud and fountain and wild wood</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Thrills the translucent ichor in your veins.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">O sweet immortal sisterhood!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Thermia</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">A mighty willow guards the meadow’s brink,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Where daisies shine and finches pause to drink:</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Each year its lissome branches droop anew,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">And on the straightest, smoothest shoot I grew.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Myrto</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Deep in the forest shade black water ran:</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Beneath its tide my babyhood began;</div> + <div class="verse indent0">And while for strength these tiny knees did lack,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">A bullfrog bore me on his bright green back.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_27">[27]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Philinna</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Down a sheer sunny cliff wild waters whirl</div> + <div class="verse indent0">In tinted gleams of amethyst and pearl:</div> + <div class="verse indent0">And where that dangling riband dots the sky,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">From one soft gauzy filament sprang I.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i>The curtains of <span class="smcap">Circe’s</span> bower are drawn away, +revealing some part of its interior and a nymph +standing on either side. <span class="smcap">Circe</span> moves slowly backward +to the bower entrance; and her three nymphs +move backward toward the several exits.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">[<i>To the audience</i>] There is a sleep that hath no need of dreams:</div> + <div class="verse indent0">When of each waking hour the passage seems</div> + <div class="verse indent0">A bird-flight under lovelier skies than those</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Which dreamland fancy to the slumberer shows.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i>The music of <span class="smcap">Circe’s</span> song is again heard, and the +drop-curtain falls while all are just disappearing. +<span class="smcap">Philinna</span> goes out at Right 2; <span class="smcap">Thermia</span> at Left 2; +<span class="smcap">Myrto</span> at Left centre.</i>]</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_28">[28]</span></p> + +<h3>III</h3> + +<div class="scene"> + +<p>A camp by the seashore just before sunrise. The ground +rises at the back and Right, rough with shrubbery and rocks. +A galley of antique build has been drawn upon the sand +crosswise at the Left and there are glimpses of the sea on +this side. The mast has been unstepped and a few long oars +lean against the side of the vessel. There are other signs of a +recent disembarcation. Articles of nautical and warlike use +lie on the ground or hang upon bushes and rocks; wine-jars, +cups, plates, etc. have been deposited. The forms of a numerous +company of men are seen sleeping on the ground, +wrapped in their blankets, here and there near the ship.—In +the foreground at the Right centre a fire of small sticks is +beginning to burn under tripod and kettle. <span class="smcap">Theron</span>, the +cook, is seen seated on the ground near the fire, washing +strips of meat for roasting. From the low branch of a tree +near him hangs the well stripped carcass of a deer, the hide +and the head bearing large antlers in full view near by. +<span class="smcap">Elpenor</span>, the cook’s helper, is at work trying to make the +fire burn.</p> + +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Theron</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Scratch together another stick or two of wood, +youngster.</p> + +<p class="dir">[<i>Enter <span class="smcap">Glaucus</span> at Right with a jar of water which +he sets down near <span class="smcap">Theron</span>.</i>]</p> + +<p class="prose">That will do for water, Glauc. Take a hand now +and help the lad blow the fire a bit.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_29">[29]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Glaucus</span></p> + +<p class="prose">So I will, though I be a trifle blown myself, tramping +up and down to that spring.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Theron</span></p> + +<p class="prose">That’s where the commander pinked the deer +yesterday, eh?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Glaucus</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Ay, ay; the old man hasn’t forgotten how to let +slip an arrow since we became water-dogs, for +certain.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Theron</span></p> + +<p class="prose">’Twas a crack piece of venison he fetched in and +no mistake! There’s a strip or two left for +breakfast; but I reckon we’ll have to make a +soup of the hide for dinner—that is if other +game doesn’t turn up. [<i>He lays pieces of meat +spitted over the coals.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Glaucus</span></p> + +<p class="prose">The soup’ll do them. They took solid meat enough +aboard yesterday to last for a week’s voyage.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_30">[30]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Elpenor</span></p> + +<p class="prose">When I saw them eating, it made me think of +father feeding the hogs up in Cephallenia.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Glaucus</span></p> + +<p class="prose">They’re grunting yet. Just hear the beggars snore! +And we turned in before sunset too.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Theron</span></p> + +<p class="prose">The Pramnian’s responsible for that: we tapped +four jars. It’s the same as keeled over that +beastly hulk of a Cyclops.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Elpenor</span></p> + +<p class="prose">The commander took a mighty round swig himself; +I saw him.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Glaucus</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Trust him for keeping his head level. Besides, he +can carry more of the rosy than any three of us.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Theron</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Pass over those barley spats, boy—ah! you’ve +got them too wet, you monkey.—Say, Glauc, +how would you like to see such a thing as a +woman again, eh? [<i><span class="smcap">Theron</span> grins and nudges +<span class="smcap">Glaucus’</span> knee with his elbow.</i>]</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_31">[31]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Glaucus</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Well, you’re right; it is a long time since.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Elpenor</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Wasn’t that a woman you saw at the last landing-place?—there +where they smashed all the +ships we had but this one.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Theron</span></p> + +<p class="prose">What!—the giant’s daughter? Bless you, boy, +that was a waddling mountain, not a woman!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Glaucus</span></p> + +<p class="prose">You might throw your arms round her waist +twice, Elpy, and never touch the tips of your +fingers.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Theron</span></p> + +<p class="prose">By the powers, she <i>was</i> a hogshead to tackle; ha, ha!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Glaucus</span></p> + +<p class="prose">If there be female inhabitants of this prickly +country, it’s to be hoped they’re not built +after that pattern. But everything here wears +horns, so far. [<i>He taps the antlers of the stag.</i>]</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_32">[32]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Theron</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Well, we’re nigh about ready. Set those plates +round in just a little order. Call ’em up, Elp! +Take my knife here and hammer on that +shield hanging by the tree. The sun’ll be on +us shortly. One more jar of water, Glaucus. +[<i>Exit <span class="smcap">Glaucus</span>.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Elpenor</span></p> + +<p class="prose">[<i>Pounding on the metallic shield</i>] Ding, dong! +Cling, clang! Breakfast! Get up! Get up! +Breakfast! Ding, dong! Cling, clang!</p> + +<p class="dir">[<i>The men rise one after another from their beds +on the ground and adjust their garments, which +look stained and weather-worn. <span class="smcap">Glaucus</span> re-enters +and pours water into several basins for +the men to wash their hands. They gradually +find seats on the ground near the fire and begin +to eat, the cook and his assistant serving them +informally. The conversation begins while they +are dressing and getting ready, before they sit.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Phorbas</span></p> + +<p class="prose">[<i>Looking around him suspiciously</i>] I wonder on +which side the sun rises in this blessed country.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_33">[33]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Philemon</span></p> + +<p class="prose">On the east side, maybe; leastwise it ought to come +up opposite to where it went down yesterday.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Phorbas</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Well, who remembers where that was? Split me if +I do!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Glaucus</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Avast there! the sun’ll peep over in a jiffy—by +the spring yonder. [<i>He turns his thumb backward +to the Right.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Phorbas</span></p> + +<p class="prose">All the same we don’t any of us know where we are.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Theron</span></p> + +<p class="prose">We’re supposed to be at the breakfast table now, +lads. Fall to if you’ve got any appetite left +over from yesterday!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Xenias</span></p> + +<p class="prose">We’ve got more appetite left over than you have +chops, cook.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_34">[34]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Theron</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Ay, every chop’s a sparerib this morning—except +a few choice cuts here for the commander and +the mate. They’re done now.</p> + +<p class="dir">[<i>He takes the meat from the fire into a platter.</i>]</p> + +<p class="prose">Here, young man; take ’em over to him round +the other side of the ship.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Elpenor</span></p> + +<p class="prose">[<i>As he goes out</i>] We’re going to have soup for +dinner. [<i>He disappears behind the vessel.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Philemon</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Look here, Theron; did you put the charcoal in +these barley cakes before baking or after?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Glaucus</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Pooh, pooh! Never mind the grit, man; it’s an +aid to digestion. We’re lucky enough to have +groats aboard, anyway.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Phorbas</span></p> + +<p class="prose">We’re lucky to be alive! By Apollo, how I shiver +when I think of that Æolian duffer and the +cursed wind-bags he palmed off on us!</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_35">[35]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Xenias</span></p> + +<p class="prose">’Twas worse than a hurricane on the wrong +quarter when <i>they</i> blew up—took us straight +back to the old boy himself.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Philemon</span></p> + +<p class="prose">He <i>was</i> a windy humbug! You’d have thought, to +hear him talk, we’d be back home in Ithaca +inside of twenty-four hours.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Phorbas</span></p> + +<p class="prose">And now we’re only <i>here</i>! Another cannibal island, +I’ll bet my pile! Ye gods! I wouldn’t go up +ten rods from the shore for a gold mine.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Theron</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Well, the commander took a little walk yesterday +and nobody ate <i>him</i> up. He didn’t make much +of a report as to what he saw; but I’ve a +notion he’ll say something about it to-day.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Glaucus</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Sh—here he comes now! Mind your taps, men!</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_36">[36]</span></p> + +<p class="dir">[<i>Enter <span class="smcap">Ulysses</span> and <span class="smcap">Eurylochus</span> at the Left from +behind the ship. The men finishing their meal +salute without rising and arrange themselves +comfortably and informally on the ground in a +sort of circle looking toward <span class="smcap">Ulysses</span> in the +centre. <span class="smcap">Elpenor</span> re-enters behind the two and +sits down with the others. <span class="smcap">Eurylochus</span> also +seats himself upon the ground at the right hand +of <span class="smcap">Ulysses</span>. In appearance the mate is distinguished +from the crew mainly by wearing +fresher and less weather-beaten garments. <span class="smcap">Ulysses</span> +wears a helmet and carries his sword and +baldric in his hand. He throws the weapon upon +the ground, and as he begins to speak takes off +his helmet, holding it swinging by its strap in +his left hand while he stands and speaks. The +rays of the rising sun now strike over the bank +behind him.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Ulysses</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Good morrow, men! How sped the night?</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Several Voices</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">O, hearty, hearty!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_37">[37]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Eurylochus</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">They had a bout to sleep on, you remember, sir.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Ulysses</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">That was high festival—too rare a hap!</div> + <div class="verse indent0">’Twas sipping of the rest ye needed sore;</div> + <div class="verse indent0">But now there’s toil in prospect.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Philemon</span></p> + +<p class="prose">We thought you might tell us, sir, what the +prospect showed when you stepped out yesterday +and got the deer.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Phorbas</span></p> + +<p class="prose">We’re hoping to sail away from here directly.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Ulysses</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Of sail and oar appears an end not yet,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Brave comrades,—ye sad fortune-favor’d few,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Poor relic of that once gallant troop which sat</div> + <div class="verse indent0">High on three-hundred thwarts; when each proud keel,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Cleaving a homeward furrow, swept gaily past</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Familiar beacons; and from known crag and scaur<span class="pagenum" id="Page_38">[38]</span></div> + <div class="verse indent0">Triumphal friendly greetings echoed loud,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">That drop like honey in victorious ears.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Not long their cadence linger’d; but ye know</div> + <div class="verse indent0">What flouts of whirlwind and black sulphurous cloud,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Wreck-witness’d warrants of Neptunian ire,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Whelm’d some with death and the scant remnant usher’d</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Into these strange, uncanny, nameless seas.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">And now from wave to wave your weary arms</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Drive the lone pinnace, this frail shell of hope,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">With mingled dread and homesick yearning freighted.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i>As <span class="smcap">Ulysses</span> pauses, some of the men, all of whom are +looking to him intently, shake their heads or rock +themselves to and fro, and faint groans are heard.</i>]</p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">But cheer, brave shipmates; cheer!</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Not boundless stretch these watery wastes, but still</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Shines somewhere a vine-clad slope and pebbly cove,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">The fair home-harbor pictured in your dreams.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i>The men give utterance to loud sighs and groans.</i>]</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_39">[39]</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Somewhere it sparkles yet; but whether a ray</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Of yonder climbing sun illumed its borders</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Ere he warm’d us, or by the western rim</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Of darkling eve our cherish’d haven lies,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">We know not. In ourselves, thus mazed and wilder’d</div> + <div class="verse indent0">By circular driftings and strange gruesome sights,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">There springs no source of judgment, whence to draw</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Some pilotage and index of true course.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Yet on these wild inhospitable shores</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Beings we have encounter’d—and not all</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Of baleful or ungracious mood—who hold</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Rare store of guiding knowledge.—Should we not</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Press with glad feet even now our native soil,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">If ye, unhappy men, had spared to loose</div> + <div class="verse indent0">The contrary winds great Æolus did tie down</div> + <div class="verse indent0">To assure our safety?</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i>The men manifest great perturbation; some gesticulating +and shaking their heads; others rising to their +knees and striking themselves. Mutterings and faint +outcries escape them.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Eurylochus</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">[<i>Timidly; rising to his feet</i>] You failed to tell them, sir, what was in the bags.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_40">[40]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Ulysses</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">[<i>Sternly</i>] I fail’d first to remember</div> + <div class="verse indent0">What slender stock of prudence or just restraint</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Your wits preserve. So, while I slept, ye wrought</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Mischief beyond repair. It was thy watch,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Eurylochus; dost recall it?</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Eurylochus</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Yes, sir, it was my company on duty then.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Ulysses</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Draw off thy men; let them assemble apart.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i>At a sign from <span class="smcap">Eurylochus</span> men to the number of +one-half the crew arise and group themselves around +him on the Right. The rest remain seated nearer +<span class="smcap">Ulysses</span>. <span class="smcap">Eurylochus’</span> company includes <span class="smcap">Glaucus</span>, +<span class="smcap">Theron</span>, <span class="smcap">Elpenor</span>, and <span class="smcap">Phorbas</span>.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Ulysses</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">[<i>To all as before</i>] I repeat, then,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">There dwell in these weird regions spirits—some few,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Mighty yet not malevolent, and endued</div> + <div class="verse indent0">With sapient skill and far discernment. Nor</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Save by experience of them may we hope<span class="pagenum" id="Page_41">[41]</span></div> + <div class="verse indent0">To win the instructions craved. Here yesterday</div> + <div class="verse indent0">From the bare peak whereto I clomb, the view</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Of a round isle lay open; and at the point</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Where these upwinding brambly folds converge</div> + <div class="verse indent0">I saw faint-coiling smoke-wreaths, the sure sign</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Of dwellers.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i>All of the men are visibly disturbed and give increased +and anxious attention.</i>]</p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent14">It behooves us now to prove</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Their case and disposition. But whether it suits</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Rather that I conduct my party thither</div> + <div class="verse indent0">For the grave query, or Eurylochus his,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Allotment shall decide.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i>Sensation among his hearers</i>]</p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent24">Ofttimes the hand</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Of Fortune guides a venturous essay fitter</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Than human arbitration. Mark, then, Eurylochus,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">My lot and thine.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i><span class="smcap">Eurylochus</span> with assistance from others finds upon +the beach two small flat stones. These he scratches with +his dagger, marking one with a V, the other with an E.</i>]</p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent18">Shake now the sherds, good Glaucus.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_42">[42]</span></p> + +<p class="dir">[<i>As he speaks <span class="smcap">Ulysses</span> passes the helmet which he has +hitherto held in his left hand to <span class="smcap">Glaucus</span>. The two +lots are thrown into the helmet; and <span class="smcap">Glaucus</span>, standing +in an open space and watched with intense +expectation by all present, shakes it violently with a +circular movement until one of the lots flies out and +falls to the ground. The men strain their eyes toward +the stone as it is picked up by <span class="smcap">Glaucus</span>.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Ulysses</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Well, what decision?</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Glaucus</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">[<i>Holding up the stone</i>] It’s Eurylochus, sir, his mark.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i>The announcement produces various effects upon the +men. The party of <span class="smcap">Ulysses</span>, seated upon the ground, +strive not to show too plainly their sense of relief; while +the standing company of <span class="smcap">Eurylochus</span> are more +openly affected. <span class="smcap">Phorbas</span> in particular is in a highly +nervous state, glancing now toward the hill, now +toward the water. A few other timid ones in the same +party demean themselves similarly.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Ulysses</span></p> + +<p class="prose">[<i>To <span class="smcap">Eurylochus</span></i>] Enough; make ready directly, +and proceed with reasonable haste.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_43">[43]</span></p> + +<p class="dir">[<i>The mate’s company move apart and make preparations, +helped to some extent by the others. There is +lively motion in both groups. They gather up things +needful for an expedition, spears, staves, water-flasks, +etc. <span class="smcap">Theron</span>, a portly figure, does not change +his cook’s garb, but buckles on a very broad belt with +hanging straps, and whets his butcher’s cleaver with +a stone. Shortly they are ready to start.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Eurylochus</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">My mission is, sir——?</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Ulysses</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">To announce, if those thou haply find’st wear not</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Sinister aspect, our good-will and greeting;</div> + <div class="verse indent0">And the right winds for homeward voyage inquire.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Eurylochus</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Very well, sir.—Fall in, lads!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i><span class="smcap">Eurylochus’</span> followers draw closer to their leader, +apart from the others. All are serious. Individuals +take leave of one another here and there with hand-shaking, +etc.</i>]</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_44">[44]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Ulysses</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">The sign show’d near the summit. Your ascent,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Thorny perchance and steep, will prove not long;</div> + <div class="verse indent0">The questioning, easy.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Xenias</span></p> + +<p class="prose">[<i>Seriously</i>] Have an eye to Theron, Glaucus; let +him not be too forward with that meat-knife +of his!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Elpenor</span></p> + +<p class="prose">[<i>Taking hold of a strap at <span class="smcap">Theron’s</span> belt</i>] I shall +hold him back.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Ulysses</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Full oft a forward mood and hardy daring</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Is of prime merit; circumstance will teach</div> + <div class="verse indent0">How far to temper zeal with slow discretion.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Farewell!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Eurylochus</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Farewell, sir!—Forward, men!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Several Voices on Both Sides</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Farewell! adieu! luck, luck!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_45">[45]</span></p> + +<p class="dir">[<i>The mate’s company go out at the Right and upward. +<span class="smcap">Eurylochus</span> himself is abreast of the foremost on +their left. The vanguard consists of <span class="smcap">Glaucus</span>, +<span class="smcap">Theron</span> (cleaver in hand), and <span class="smcap">Elpenor</span> (a fragile, +attenuated figure) behind the cook, holding at his +belt. <span class="smcap">Phorbas</span> and other timid ones bring up the +rear. The drop-curtain falls as they move off while +the rest watch them and wave their hands to them.</i>]</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_46">[46]</span></p> + +<h3>IV</h3> + +<div class="scene"> + +<p>The same as Scene I. The front of <span class="smcap">Circe’s</span> palace. No music +or other sound is heard when the curtain rises. The fountain +plays as before.—Enter at the Right by the main gateway +<span class="smcap">Eurylochus</span> and his party, the men grouped similarly as +at the close of the last scene, but in the reverse order. In +advance are <span class="smcap">Phorbas</span> and the other timid ones; they enter +hurriedly, casting glances of alarm behind them. The rest +of the party immediately follow; <span class="smcap">Eurylochus</span>, <span class="smcap">Glaucus</span>, +and <span class="smcap">Theron</span> last. <span class="smcap">Elpenor</span> is in front of <span class="smcap">Theron</span>, who +pushes him forward. The whole company quickly come to a +standstill in a single close group with considerable space +between them and the steps of the porch. They scan the +building and its environs with looks of wonder, especially +fascinated by the fountain with its changing hues.—<span class="smcap">Eurylochus</span> +stands apart from the rest, his demeanor indicating +hesitation and perplexity. While the others are talking he +walks slowly to and fro, occasionally pausing and scanning +suspiciously the various features of the scene.</p> + +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Theron</span></p> + +<p class="prose">It’s a rum go so far! eh, Glaucus?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Glaucus</span></p> + +<p class="prose">[<i>Shrugging his shoulders</i>] Rum’s the word! An +outpost of tame tigers! It beats anything +we’ve walked into yet. Cyclops’ cave wasn’t +a circumstance.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_47">[47]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Theron</span></p> + +<p class="prose">I had a notion to crack the skull of that overgrown +wolf-cub when he landed his dirty paws on my +shoulders. But he looked sort o’ gentle like, +and besides I thought the old chap who owns +the menagerie might take a miff—whoever <i>he</i> is.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Glaucus</span></p> + +<p class="prose">It’s some retired show-man or prize-fighter, I +reckon.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Theron</span></p> + +<p class="prose">He’s got a blue devil penned up in his fountain, +sure! Just look at that, old man; hock first, +and blue vitriol at the tail end of it! There’s +bitters for you with a vengeance!—Blast me, +but I’m thirsty as an oyster, whacking a way +up through that pesky brush-wood! If there’s +a chance to wet our whistles inside the house +it’ll be worth the dog-show twice over.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Phorbas</span></p> + +<p class="prose">I tell you it’ll pay to be cautious about the inside. +Ugh! it did make my flesh creep, crossing +that cordon of wild-cats! There’s no knowing +what we’ll put our foot on if we go farther.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_48">[48]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Elpenor</span></p> + +<p class="prose">I put my foot on a snake.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Glaucus</span></p> + +<p class="prose">They put an architect to work here that <i>saw</i> +snakes, anyhow. Take a look at those water-spouts, +boys! [<i>Pointing to the gargoyles</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Eurylochus</span></p> + +<p class="prose">[<i>Approaching the group</i>] Well, men; what’s the +next step? The commander said go ahead if +the people weren’t unfriendly. The wild beasts +out there were friendly enough, you might +say; but there’s an uncanny look to it all.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Theron</span></p> + +<p class="prose">I vote to go ahead and knock up the owner. If he’s +no worse than his own whelps we can stand +it;—especially if he stands for the drinks.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Glaucus</span></p> + +<p class="prose">There’s no two-legged craft within hail outside—nothing +but four-footed gentry out here.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Eurylochus</span></p> + +<p class="prose">We might mount the stairs, then, cautiously, and +<span class="pagenum" id="Page_49">[49]</span>see how things look under the doorway +yonder. [<i>Shaking his head</i>] But I fear enchantment.</p> + +<p class="dir">[<i>As they approach the steps the hum of the +spinning-wheel begins to be heard. The men +pause again, and look at each other a moment in +silence. <span class="smcap">Eurylochus</span> starts at the sound of the +wheel, his features betraying heightened anxiety.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Theron</span></p> + +<p class="prose">[<i>Slapping <span class="smcap">Glaucus</span> on the shoulder</i>] God-a-mercy, +it’s womankind after all, Glauc! Come on! +Ha, ha!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Elpenor</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Maybe it’s a mountain.</p> + +<p class="dir">[<i>They all move toward the steps again. <span class="smcap">Theron</span>, with +<span class="smcap">Elpenor</span> holding to his belt, and <span class="smcap">Glaucus</span> are now +in advance; <span class="smcap">Eurylochus</span> is at one side; <span class="smcap">Phorbas</span> +and others are behind. As the first man sets foot on +the steps the wheel stops humming and faint music +strikes up as prelude to <span class="smcap">Circe’s</span> song. Immediately +a clear soprano voice is heard behind the scenes singing +the air, the chorus of the song being performed by +a quartette of women’s voices. The hearers are sensibly +<span class="pagenum" id="Page_50">[50]</span>affected, showing their feelings by appropriate +pantomime as they alternately pause and mount +slowly higher and higher upon the stairs. <span class="smcap">Eurylochus</span> +alone exhibits symptoms of horror and repulsion; the +others seem to be charmed and lured on by the song. +All of them except the leader are gathered together +upon the porch close to the doorway when the last +stanza is sung.</i>]</p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="song"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="center"><span class="smcap">The Song of Circe</span></div> + </div> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent2">Ah, who!—ah, who!</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Who would dwell longer there <span class="ml2"><i>bis</i></span></div> + <div class="verse indent0">In a rude world of care,</div> + <div class="verse indent2">Of toil and care!</div> + <div class="verse indent0">They only live, who hear</div> + <div class="verse indent0">My song and taste my cheer—</div> + <div class="verse indent2">Who my life share. <span class="ml2"><i>bis</i></span></div> + <div class="verse indent2">Ah, who!—ah, who</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Would toil and tarry there!</div> + </div> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="center">(<i>Chorus</i>)</div> + </div> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent2">They only live, who hear</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Our song and taste our cheer—</div> + <div class="verse indent2">Who our life share. <span class="ml2"><i>bis</i></span></div> + <div class="verse indent2">Ah, who!—ah, who</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Would toil and tarry there!<span class="pagenum" id="Page_51">[51]</span></div> + </div> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="center">II</div> + </div> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent2">I know—I know</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Where bubbling waters flow;</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Where shadowy willows sway</div> + <div class="verse indent0">And wood nymphs hide and play</div> + <div class="verse indent2">In my round isle.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">I know which clustering vine</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Spirts out the sweetest wine.</div> + <div class="verse indent2">Who would not while</div> + <div class="verse indent2">Swift hours away!</div> + <div class="verse indent2">Ah, who!—ah, who!</div> + <div class="verse indent0">In my round bowery isle!</div> + </div> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="center">(<i>Chorus</i>)</div> + </div> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">We know—we know which vine</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Spirts out the sweetest wine.</div> + <div class="verse indent2">Who would not while</div> + <div class="verse indent2">Swift hours away!</div> + <div class="verse indent2">Ah, who!—ah, who!</div> + <div class="verse indent0">In our round bowery isle!<span class="pagenum" id="Page_52">[52]</span></div> + </div> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="center">III</div> + </div> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent2">I know—I know</div> + <div class="verse indent0">What makes the wood-dove moan <span class="ml2"><i>bis</i></span></div> + <div class="verse indent0">In the dark coppice lone;</div> + <div class="verse indent2">I know the cure.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">When floats the owlet’s cry,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Her quavering lullaby,</div> + <div class="verse indent2">Who!—ah, who!</div> + <div class="verse indent0">While night winds sigh,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Who would not quaff the cure!</div> + <div class="verse indent2">Ah, who!—ah, who!</div> + </div> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="center">(<i>Chorus</i>)</div> + </div> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">We know, we know the cure.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">When floats the owlet’s cry,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Her quavering lullaby,</div> + <div class="verse indent2">Who!—ah, who!</div> + <div class="verse indent0">While night winds sigh,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Who would not quaff the cure!</div> + <div class="verse indent2">Ah, who!—ah, who!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Glaucus</span></p> + +<p class="prose">[<i>Loudly, in a musical tone</i>] Hola!—hola!</p> + +<p class="dir">[<i>Directly upon the utterance of this call the low, +shaded recess of the doorway, which was dark before, +<span class="pagenum" id="Page_53">[53]</span>grows bright with the same golden radiance that had +shone intermittently upon the fountain; and the +throng of visitors, excepting their leader, press swiftly +forward and disappear through the opening. Again +immediately the light in the doorway changes to blue, +with electrical sparks. <span class="smcap">Eurylochus</span>, who is directing +his gaze toward the opening, shrinks back in alarm; +and at the same moment the spray of the fountain +becomes blue and remains of that color. Descending +to a lower stair <span class="smcap">Eurylochus</span> peers under the doorway, +listening intently. No sound is heard. Then, +his attention being drawn to the sombre hue of the +fountain, while he is looking away from the entrance, +a large serpent lets down its coils from the roof of the +porch; and as the man turns again toward the +entrance he is confronted with its wide-open jaws, +forked tongue, and glittering eyes. As he retreats +precipitately from the stairs the serpent draws itself +up out of sight. <span class="smcap">Eurylochus</span> stops once more in the +foreground to watch and listen for some sign of his +men within the palace; but as he turns toward the +building, the head of a wolf with glowing eyes is +protruded from a clump of shrubbery. Upon encountering +this final apparition he flees in consternation +from the scene.</i>]</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_54">[54]</span></p> + +<h3>V</h3> + +<div class="scene"> + +<p>The Seashore again. The curtain rising discovers the men +left behind at the camp sitting irregularly grouped near the +fire-place. <span class="smcap">Ulysses</span> stands apart from them by the ship, +busied in inspecting his arms, the spear, bow, and sword, +which hang near or lean against the vessel. When he unsheathes +and sheathes the sword to examine it while his +men are talking it is seen to have a brightly polished, rather +broad, but not heavy blade. Most of the time he stands +with face turned toward the water, his back to the Right.</p> + +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">First Sailor</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Look here, lads; we can’t wait till noon for a bite! +The commander ordered breakfast so rattling +early this morning I’ve got a brand-new +appetite already.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Xenias</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Well, take a nibble on that pile of Theron’s charcoal +cakes left over. They need a good appetite +to make ’em slip down.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">First Sailor</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Maybe the mate or Glaucus’ll fetch in another +stag or a wild goat on their way back.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_55">[55]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Second Sailor</span></p> + +<p class="prose">A wild goose more like; I wonder how far they’ve +got anyway.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Philemon</span></p> + +<p class="prose">They ought to turn up before noon. The commander +said they might get up there and +return in a couple of hours, as he judged—that +is, if they scratched gravel lively.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Xenias</span></p> + +<p class="prose">They’ve got Theron with ’em, remember; he +can’t pass between two trees when they grow +<i>too</i> near together.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">First Sailor</span></p> + +<p class="prose">No, but he can clear a path with his cleaver for +two men—him and Elpy spindle-shanks.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Second Sailor</span></p> + +<p class="prose">[<i>In undertone</i>] By the way, the commander’s +pretty busy over there with his own cutlery. +I wonder what he expects next.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_56">[56]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Philemon</span></p> + +<p class="prose">He expects to be <i>ready</i>, whatever comes. You +don’t catch him napping. Besides, who wants +a speck of rust on a hanger like that? The +war’s an old story now; and this salt air’s +the devil’s own invention to make a blade +stick to the scabbard.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Xenias</span></p> + +<p class="prose">’Twas a pity he couldn’t draw it on that Cyclops +hog. But if we’d let the blood out of him it +wouldn’t have let us out of his pesky cave +with a giant’s tomb-stone clapped up to the +door!—[<i>Whistling low as he looks up. <span class="smcap">Xenias</span> +sits facing the Right.</i>] Whew!—What’s in the +wind now?</p> + +<p class="dir">[<i>All turn quickly toward the point indicated by +the speaker, not excepting <span class="smcap">Ulysses</span>, whose +attention has been attracted by the whistle. At +the Right from above <span class="smcap">Eurylochus</span> enters slowly +and hesitatingly, looking pale and haggard, his +clothing torn and disordered by the brambles. +Observing that all eyes are directed upon him he +stops as if afraid to approach the company. +<span class="pagenum" id="Page_57">[57]</span>Most of the men rise to their feet and move +toward him.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Several Voices</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Hi! hi!—what’s the good word?—News, news? +Where’s Glauc? [<i><span class="smcap">Eurylochus</span> responds only +with deprecatory gestures.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Ulysses</span></p> + +<p class="prose">What? ho, Eurylochus! Hast tidings? Why alone?</p> + +<p class="prose">What ails thee, mate? Speak out; tell us thy +story!</p> + +<p class="dir">[<i>With gestures of dismay <span class="smcap">Eurylochus</span> moves +nearer to <span class="smcap">Ulysses</span>, but does not speak. <span class="smcap">Ulysses</span> +regards him with an expression of deep concern. +The other men gather more closely round the pair.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Xenias</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Wake up, man! What’s in your eye? We’re here +to help; cheer up!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Philemon</span></p> + +<p class="prose">[<i>Patting <span class="smcap">Eurylochus</span> on the shoulder</i>] Out with it; +out with it!—Go ahead; palaver!</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_58">[58]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Xenias</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Open up, old fellow. <i>You’re</i> not dead, anyway. +We’re used to funerals by this time. [<i><span class="smcap">Eurylochus</span> +remains in his despairing attitude and +is still unable to speak.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Ulysses</span></p> + +<p class="dir">[<i>Severely; taking a step nearer to <span class="smcap">Eurylochus</span>, +while the men fall back slightly.</i>]</p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Eurylochus, I enjoin you and command</div> + <div class="verse indent0">To conquer this o’er-mastering mute despair.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Deliver straightway the account we crave</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Of your commission and make known why thus</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Alone and fraught with visible woe thou comest.—</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Where are they? Speak!—</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Eurylochus</span></p> + +<p class="dir">[<i>With effort; after further hesitation.</i>]</p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Noble Ulysses, we did most duly follow</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Thy charge and indication. And when with sharp</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Stretches of toilsome clambering we drew nigh</div> + <div class="verse indent0">This shaggy island’s summit, where the ground</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Sloped smoother, as these rude prickly folds gave way<span class="pagenum" id="Page_59">[59]</span></div> + <div class="verse indent0">To a tall grove of sombre trees which thrust</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Their welcome shadows against the mounting sun,—</div> + <div class="verse indent0">There ’twixt the spectral boles our upward glance</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Fell on a portly mansion’s shimmering sides.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">But first, as we clomb higher, a court-yard wall</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Barr’d, though with open portals, our approach.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">For at its mouth a glowering throng, Ulysses,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Of pards and grisly wolves sat by; not wild,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">But of a tameness stranger and more awful</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Than fierce beasts’ native temper—’twas sure sign,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">And not the last, of foul enchantment. These</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Strove not to tear and rend us, but were fain</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Like petted dogs to fawn, wagging long tails</div> + <div class="verse indent0">And monstrous paws on lap or shoulders throwing;</div> + <div class="verse indent0">While in their eyes sad looks, half human, seem’d</div> + <div class="verse indent0">To deprecate and warn. But we press’d on,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Heeding thy charge, Ulysses, to mark well</div> + <div class="verse indent0">The human dwellers’ aspect and of them</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Inquire, proved they not unbenign or harsh.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Dwellers indeed we saw not; but the whole pile,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">As near its door we stood, did reek and rumble</div> + <div class="verse indent0">With devilish witchery. Scaly serpents writhed</div> + <div class="verse indent0">At every coigne; faces with fiery eyeballs</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Peer’d out amid the foliage; and o’er all</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Weird flashes leapt of lurid sulphurous flame.<span class="pagenum" id="Page_60">[60]</span></div> + <div class="verse indent0">Yet that which most profoundly stirr’d my doubts</div> + <div class="verse indent0">And dark suspicions, was the unearthly <i>song</i>,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">With languorous music mixt, that issued forth</div> + <div class="verse indent0">To charm and tempt us with seductive spell.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Myself shrank back when on my ear that strain</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Of woman’s guile or witch’s magic struck.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Not so the rest, Ulysses,—our lost comrades;</div> + <div class="verse indent0">But the song bound and pull’d them; nor could I</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Stem their mad folly. One spoke forth and call’d;</div> + <div class="verse indent0">And as the doors swang wider all were swept</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Under the hellish gap; which, closing, swallow’d</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Like an engulfing whirlpool the doom’d crew.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">For though, as the song ceased, I watch’d and waited</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Long time for tidings or some sign, none came:</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Naught but a dismal silence and increase</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Of snaky menace and blue infernal gleams!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i>Immediately upon the conclusion of <span class="smcap">Eurylochus’</span> +narrative <span class="smcap">Ulysses</span>, who has listened intently, reaches +for his sword near by; takes a quick look at the blade +as he draws it partly out and then pushes it back +into the scabbard; slings the weapon over his shoulder, +puts on his helmet, and then turns to <span class="smcap">Eurylochus</span> +again. The latter exhibits fresh dismay at seeing +<span class="pagenum" id="Page_61">[61]</span><span class="smcap">Ulysses</span> thus arm himself. The other men also are +visibly affected by their commander’s movements.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Ulysses</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">So then thou knowest the way, Eurylochus:</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Lead on forthwith by the same path; show me</div> + <div class="verse indent0">The spot where thou didst leave them.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Eurylochus</span></p> + +<p class="dir">[<i>Falling at the feet of <span class="smcap">Ulysses</span> and clasping his knees</i>]</p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Not thither, great Ulysses! Take me not thither!</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Thyself will ne’er return, I know right well.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">It is the road to death or to some state</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Of hideous, vile bewitchment worse than death.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Thou canst not rescue them! What power hath man</div> + <div class="verse indent0">To battle with foul uncanny spirits?—Nay,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">This isle is haunted. Let us fly; we are</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Thus many left alive. To ship and fly!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Ulysses</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">[<i>Scornfully</i>] Eurylochus, ’tis thy privilege; thou art free</div> + <div class="verse indent0">To nurse thy safety, tarrying by the ship.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">On <i>me</i> a duty rests; my course lies clear:</div> + <div class="verse indent0">My comrades’ fate I go to prove.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_62">[62]</span></p> + +<p class="dir">[<i><span class="smcap">Eurylochus</span> retreats and cowers while <span class="smcap">Ulysses</span> +speaks, at the same time gradually rising to a standing +posture with his face toward the speaker. He does +not join the group of the other men. These have their +eyes fixed on the commander, some of them moving +anxiously toward him. With his last words <span class="smcap">Ulysses</span> +starts to go out at the Right. <span class="smcap">Eurylochus</span> turns away +and sits upon a stone near the ship and the water +at the Left, covering his face.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Philemon</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">May we not, sir, accompany you as guard</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Or help at hazard?</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Ulysses</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Nay, good men; remain</div> + <div class="verse indent0">And guard the vessel. My errand’s of espial</div> + <div class="verse indent0">And wary circumspection: meet for one;</div> + <div class="verse indent0">For more, unsuited. I shall not slip. Farewell!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Several Voices</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Farewell! farewell, sir!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i>The curtain falls as <span class="smcap">Ulysses</span> disappears, while the +men stand following his footsteps with their eyes.</i>]</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_63">[63]</span></p> + +<h3>VI</h3> + +<div class="scene"> + +<p>The same as Scene II. <span class="smcap">Circe’s</span> banquet-hall.—As the +curtain rises the party who entered the palace at the close +of Scene IV are shown seated at the table on the Left, while +<span class="smcap">Thermia</span> and other nymphs serve them with food and wine. +The cups are filled by pouring from tall slender pitchers of +silver, and these in turn by dipping the wine with ladles +from the punch-bowl on the sideboard. The Enchantress +and her companions are in their usual places. <span class="smcap">Myrto</span> turns +her wheel slowly and intermittently without noticeable +sound. <span class="smcap">Circe</span>, seated as before at the head of the table on +the Right, wears the same dress as in Scene II, but her +black robe is not thrown off. The wand lies upon the table +near her right hand, neither carelessly nor conspicuously +placed. The throne at her left hand, behind which <span class="smcap">Philinna</span> +stands, is occupied by <i>Mikkos</i>, who wears a brightly polished +collar.</p> + +<p>The guests are all at the table farthest from <span class="smcap">Circe</span>. The +throne at its head, opposite her throne, is occupied by +<span class="smcap">Elpenor</span>. At his left, near the corner of the table, sits +<span class="smcap">Phorbas</span>, partaking freely of the banquet, but glancing +nervously, now toward <i>Mikkos</i> and now toward the door +behind the dais where they had entered. At the left of +<span class="smcap">Phorbas</span> sit some feasters with their backs to the audience. +On the other side of the table, facing the audience, are +<span class="smcap">Theron</span> the cook (at <span class="smcap">Elpenor’s</span> right) wearing his cap; +<span class="smcap">Glaucus</span> (the farthest in the direction toward <i>Mikkos</i>); +and other men between <span class="smcap">Theron</span> and <span class="smcap">Glaucus</span>.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_64">[64]</span></p> + +<p>It is near the close of the entertainment. Appearances indicate +that the banqueters have begun to feel the effects of +the wine that is still poured freely. They are also partly +dazed and partly exhilarated by the presence of the Enchantress +and her elegant nymphs. The symptoms of intoxication +and bewilderment on the part of the men become by degrees +more manifest as the conversation proceeds. <span class="smcap">Glaucus</span> +preserves his dignity rather better than his companions; +but he seems fascinated by <span class="smcap">Circe</span>, to whom he is the nearest +in his position at table; and he does not refrain from drinking +copiously, nor show due caution or a disposition to +remember the details of the mission with which <span class="smcap">Eurylochus</span> +had been entrusted.</p> + +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">[<i>After a pause</i>] Ye do full justice, strangers and kind guests,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">To this our welcome and the cheer we spread.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">’Tis right. Go on; and so with act sincere,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Not by the hollow word, those virtues prove</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Which to my bounty I would fain impute.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">And truly, until a guest hath quell’d the pangs</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Of sharp importunate hunger, it were ungracious</div> + <div class="verse indent0">To crave of him accounts or ply his ear</div> + <div class="verse indent0">With curious question.—I am well pleased to wait</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Upon your silence keeping even pace<span class="pagenum" id="Page_65">[65]</span></div> + <div class="verse indent0">With appetite.—Ye have not sat of late,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">I judge, at flowing boards.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Elpenor</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">[<i>Loudly</i>] We had roast <i>deer</i> yesterday.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Theron</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">[<i>Flourishing his fork</i>] Done to a turn!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Ah!—did ye then venture</div> + <div class="verse indent0">To hunt and slay the creatures that frequent</div> + <div class="verse indent0">My island park? It were no jest to play</div> + <div class="verse indent0">The involuntary cannibal!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i>Some of the men are seen to be startled by this remark.</i>]</p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent26">Follow’d perchance</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Unusual visions in the wake of the feast?</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Phorbas</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Yes, yes! my sleep ran ghostly; but I thought</div> + <div class="verse indent0">’Twas a mere nightmare.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Elpenor</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent24">I thought I saw a <i>horse</i>!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_66">[66]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Of our four-footed denizens we note</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Two sorts: one of original beastly shape;</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Another, to which the brutal guise hath fallen</div> + <div class="verse indent0">As fit encasement of their human habits.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">And these two kinds, one from the other with sure</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Discrimination to distinguish, proves</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Sometimes not easy. Thus our good <i>Mikkos</i> here</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i>Patting the ape lightly</i>]</p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Was once a philosopher of the ancient sect</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Call’d pre-Ionic—in his day the most</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Redoubtable of doubters.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Glaucus</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">[<i>Gravely; nodding his head unsteadily</i>]</div> + <div class="verse indent24">Madam, we doubt it not.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Fate ordain’d</div> + <div class="verse indent0">That to this island he should drift and taste</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Our cordials. Whereon he was profoundly struck</div> + <div class="verse indent0">With my maid Myrto.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i>Here <span class="smcap">Myrto</span> without looking up sets her wheel +<span class="pagenum" id="Page_67">[67]</span>a-spinning loudly for a brief moment, causing the +banqueters to turn their eyes in her direction.</i>]</p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent20">From that hour a change</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Came o’er him.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Myrto</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent16">It was a harmless fancy;</div> + <div class="verse indent0">And he is harmless now.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i>Upon hearing <span class="smcap">Myrto’s</span> voice</i> Mikkos <i>without turning +toward her begins to raise himself by his hands +upon the arms of the chair, but at a sign from <span class="smcap">Circe</span> +lowers himself to sitting posture.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Theron</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">[<i>To <span class="smcap">Circe</span>; pointing with his fork to <span class="smcap">Philinna</span></i>]</div> + <div class="verse indent0">But why, madam?—why did he not choose</div> + <div class="verse indent0">That young miss there behind him?</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">He was a philosopher, I said.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Theron</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent30">He was a <i>pig</i>!—</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Ah, by the by, Thermia, didst thou tell Graea</div> + <div class="verse indent0">To renovate those sties?</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_68">[68]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Thermia</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent26">I did, my lady.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">More swine, she says, have bolted</div> + <div class="verse indent0">And to the woods run wild. One sty stands empty.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">It shall be fill’d erelong.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Phorbas</span></p> + +<p class="dir">[<i>Looking anxiously at a platter before him</i>]</p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Might there be a possible doubt about these spareribs?</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent16">Not the least;</div> + <div class="verse indent0">I have a discriminating cook.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Theron</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">[<i>Helping himself to more meat</i>] You can wager</div> + <div class="verse indent0"><i>She</i> knows pork when she sees it!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Elpenor</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">My father feeds hogs too.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Thy father, gentle youth, will be to-morrow</div> + <div class="verse indent0">One pig the poorer.—But where dwells he pray?</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_69">[69]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Elpenor</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">He dwells at home; I left him there.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Theron</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Lady, the lad forgets; I do much doubt</div> + <div class="verse indent0">If his own name he can remember right now.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">It is an infirmity that ofttimes with wassail</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Waxes apace. But haply you, good sir,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Can tell me whence ye came?</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Theron</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">O sure, ma’am! we came lately from a cove</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Call’d Æolus.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent14">Ah, what!—from my great kinsman,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">The steward of the winds?</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Theron</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent26">A windy stew</div> + <div class="verse indent0">He brew’d for <i>us</i>!—Great Juno! <i>was</i> it breezy, Glauc?</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_70">[70]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Glaucus</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Madam, I am a sailor; but I never</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Saw such incessant, damnable contrary winds</div> + <div class="verse indent0">In all my voyaging!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Phorbas</span></p> + +<p class="dir">[<i>Rousing himself excitedly</i>]</p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent20">Yes, yes; but who?</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Who let ’em out? Who let ’em out?</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i><span class="smcap">Glaucus</span> looks fiercely at the speaker and <span class="smcap">Theron</span> +extends his fist threateningly toward him. <span class="smcap">Phorbas</span> +shrinks away.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">But, gentlemen, pray inform me; whither now</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Would ye be wafted? From which quarter should</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Those breezes blow enabling you to reach</div> + <div class="verse indent0">The desired haven?</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Theron</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent18">We don’t know that, because</div> + <div class="verse indent0">We don’t know where we are.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Elpenor</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">We’re <i>here</i> now.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_71">[71]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Glaucus</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">We’re downright weary o’ pulling</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Across head winds!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent18">But which of you is leader?</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Which one doth stand for steering and shrewd guidance?</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Elpenor</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">He stopp’d outside.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Phorbas</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">We thought he enter’d with us; but once inside,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">We miss’d him.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">What <i>he</i> hath miss’d he knows not. I shall send</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Mikkos to fetch him.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Glaucus</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent20">Our leader, lady,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Is a good careful man, yet over wary</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Of women or witchcraft. So soon he caught the strain</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Of the song you sang it paralyzed him.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_72">[72]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent40">Ah!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Glaucus</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Were he here now, he could not look you</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Square in the face, as I do.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i><span class="smcap">Glaucus</span> is gazing at <span class="smcap">Circe</span> admiringly.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Elpenor</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent28">He might see</div> + <div class="verse indent0">That brass snake on her arm.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Glaucus</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent28">He would abhor</div> + <div class="verse indent0">The arm worse than the serpent.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent32">Is then my arm</div> + <div class="verse indent0">So frightful?</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Theron</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">The arm’s all right, ma’am; but there’s something wrong</div> + <div class="verse indent0">About Eurylochus.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">So; Eurylochus is your leader?</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_73">[73]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Glaucus</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent30">Only a bit</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Backward about leading, when he scents</div> + <div class="verse indent0">A woman in the wind.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent20">And he would fear</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Us hospitable maidens?—and, we trust,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Of aspect not forbidding.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Theron</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent26">O, it’s all one</div> + <div class="verse indent0">About the aspect. You could tree him, ma’am,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">As quick as the giant’s daughter.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent34">The giant’s daughter?</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Theron</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Yes, ma’am; we landed lately on a lot</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Of bloody cannibals—this big gal first;</div> + <div class="verse indent0">And Eurylochus took to a tree.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Elpenor</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">[<i>Pointing to <span class="smcap">Phorbas</span></i>] He climb’d up too.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_74">[74]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">What! does your friend fear women also?</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Theron</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">O no, ma’am. Phorb’s a trifle timid like,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Whether it’s a he or she. You see, it’s this way:</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Phorb was a-fear’d, because she was so large;</div> + <div class="verse indent0">And Eurylochus, because she was a lady.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">She <i>was</i> a lady then?</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Phorbas</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent22">She laid out Theron</div> + <div class="verse indent0">When he made up to her.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Theron</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent24">I had half a mind</div> + <div class="verse indent0">To make pork chop o’ the bloomin’ hussy!—Ye gods!</div> + <div class="verse indent0">This meat-knife here does hang plumb heavy</div> + <div class="verse indent0">For an after-dinner appendage.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i>He detaches the cleaver from his belt and lays it on +the table, at the same time loosening the belt.</i>]</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_75">[75]</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent30">I don’t want</div> + <div class="verse indent0">The dang’d thing dangling at my haunches when</div> + <div class="verse indent0">The dancing begins.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Elpenor</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent20">When does it begin, Theron?</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Theron</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Split me if I know! There’s a raft more drinks</div> + <div class="verse indent0">On the tapis yet.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent18">My friends, I shall soon show you</div> + <div class="verse indent0">A new dance call’d the four-step.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Several Voices</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Hi, hi! Hip, hip! [<i>They pound on the table with their cups.</i>]</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Theron</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Ha, ha! The four-step; two-and-two two-step:</div> + <div class="verse indent0">That means partners!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i>He leers again at <span class="smcap">Philinna</span>, drains his cup and +<span class="pagenum" id="Page_76">[76]</span>waves it toward her.—Other men seem to pay increased +attention to the nymphs serving them.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Glaucus</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">[<i>Admiringly, but unsteadily</i>] Do you dance it, madam, yourself?</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">O no; but Mikkos knows it.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i>Here the ape slowly raises himself by the hands until +all four extremities rest upon the arms of the chair, +remaining a moment or two in this position before +lowering himself.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Theron</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent26">Would you mind, ma’am,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Letting that there young miss step over here to take</div> + <div class="verse indent0">The place of this one?</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i>He points to <span class="smcap">Philinna</span> and indicates <span class="smcap">Thermia</span> +behind him with his left thumb over the shoulder.</i>]</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_77">[77]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Elpenor</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">[<i>Parenthetically</i>] Don’t take <i>her</i> away!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">A moment, sir; I have some present need of her.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">One choicest cordial I have not yet brought</div> + <div class="verse indent0">To your attention. In my island only</div> + <div class="verse indent0">The vintage can be stored.—A jar, Philinna;</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Here on my table.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Philinna</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent18">Do you mean, my lady,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">The wine which for ourselves alone we press?</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Yes, child; these are no every-day arrivals; go!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i><span class="smcap">Philinna</span> goes out at Right 2. The other nymphs +present, except <span class="smcap">Myrto</span> and <span class="smcap">Thermia</span>, leave the room +quietly and unobservedly, closing the Left central door. +<span class="smcap">Theron’s</span> song begins as <span class="smcap">Philinna</span> disappears. The +refrain and chorus are joined in by all the men except +<span class="smcap">Elpenor</span> and <span class="smcap">Phorbas</span>, who look at each other and +laugh.</i>]</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_78">[78]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Theron</span></p> + +<p class="dir">[<i>Sings; still looking toward the door where <span class="smcap">Philinna</span> +went out.</i>]</p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">It was a stout sailor who cook’d for the crew;</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">All</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent8">Sing yo, heave yo!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Theron</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">A-shedding salt tears while he season’d the stew.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">All</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">A-shedding salt tears while he season’d the stew.</div> + <div class="verse indent8">Sing yo, heave yo, on the briny!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Theron</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Salt tears for the sweetheart that jilted him last;</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">All</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent8">Sing yo, heave yo!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Theron</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">And the onions he peel’d made ’em fall thick and fast.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">All</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">And the onions he peel’d made ’em fall thick and fast.</div> + <div class="verse indent8">Sing yo, heave yo, on the briny!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_79">[79]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<p class="prose">[<i>To <span class="smcap">Glaucus</span></i>] Would <i>that</i> song paralyze your leader, sir?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Glaucus</span></p> + +<p class="prose">The allusion would prick him, madam; depend upon it.—</p> + +<p class="dir">[<i>Turning to <span class="smcap">Theron</span></i>] One more, Thee,—till she’s back with the bitters.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Theron</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">[<i>Sings</i>] One fine morning the pudding-bag busted a flap;</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">All</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent8">Sing yo, heave yo!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Theron</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">So he boil’d the noon mess in his greasy cook’s cap.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i>Here <span class="smcap">Theron</span> takes his cap from his head and lays +it over a plate.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">All</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">So he boil’d the noon mess in his greasy cook’s cap.</div> + <div class="verse indent8">Sing yo, heave yo, on the briny!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Theron</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">“For God’s sake,” cried the captain, “what’s struck the plum-duff?”</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_80">[80]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">All</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent8">Sing yo, heave yo!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Theron</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">“We don’t need hogs’ bristles to flavor the stuff!”</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">All</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">“We don’t need hogs’ bristles to flavor the stuff!”</div> + <div class="verse indent8">Sing yo, heave yo, on the briny!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i>With the last chorus <span class="smcap">Philinna</span> re-enters bearing a +punch-bowl of elegant pattern, smaller than the one +on the sideboard at the opposite end of the room. She +places the bowl upon the table before <span class="smcap">Circe</span>, while the +men become silent as they look on.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Myrto</span></p> + +<p class="prose">My lady, may Mikkos have a drop?</p> + +<p class="dir">[<i>At these words the ape begins to draw himself up by +the hands again. <span class="smcap">Circe</span> nods assent to <span class="smcap">Myrto</span>.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Philinna!</p> + +<p class="dir">[<i><span class="smcap">Philinna</span> fills a cup from the bowl and hands it to +<span class="pagenum" id="Page_81">[81]</span>the ape. She also sets a small cup of wine before +<span class="smcap">Circe</span>.</i> Mikkos <i>drains the beaker, holding it with +both hands and throwing his head very far back; and +while the eyes of all the men are directed toward him +with amused attention <span class="smcap">Circe</span>, opening a very small +silver casket that hangs at her girdle, takes a fine +powder therefrom and quickly throws it into the +bowl. She draws the wand nearer to her hand.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Thermia!</p> + +<p class="dir">[<i>At the word, <span class="smcap">Thermia</span> passes up to <span class="smcap">Circe’s</span> table +and she and <span class="smcap">Philinna</span>, filling pitchers from <span class="smcap">Circe’s</span> +bowl, proceed to refill the cups of the banqueters in +regular order, <span class="smcap">Thermia</span> from left to right, <span class="smcap">Philinna</span> +from right to left. Then as they meet at the centre +both the nymphs retire together to the extreme Right +near <span class="smcap">Circe</span>. Meanwhile the sombre figure of <span class="smcap">Graea</span> +the Swine-maiden is discovered lurking in the corridor +behind the Right central doorway.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<p class="prose">[<i>Raising her cup</i>] To the health of your backward +leader, my brave guests!</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_82">[82]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Glaucus</span></p> + +<p class="prose">[<i>Half-rising; unsteadily</i>] Out, out! To hostess, +hostess! Here’s to hostess!</p> + +<p class="dir">[<i>All drink; and the effects of the drug straightway +become apparent. An expression of stupefaction and +horror passes over the faces of the men. They look at +each other vacantly with forced smiles; their heads +and arms sway and droop; they swing round in +their seats and are evidently unconscious of their +situation. At the first symptoms of this delirium the +Enchantress rises deliberately from her throne, wand +in hand; and gliding along the line toward the Left +taps lightly and quickly each man with the wand +without pausing in her course. Then she steps upon +the dais.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<p class="dir">[<i>Sternly; with wand pointed upward and back +toward the Right centre</i>]</p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Hence to the sty! your proper shapes assume!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i>Directly <span class="smcap">Graea</span>, who during <span class="smcap">Circe’s</span> movements has +stridden noiselessly into the room and has passed +along its edge behind <span class="smcap">Thermia</span> and <span class="smcap">Philinna</span> and +the Enchantress’ throne until in front of the other +table near the point where <span class="smcap">Phorbas</span> sits, raises her +<span class="pagenum" id="Page_83">[83]</span>long whip and cracks it fiercely with sharp detonation +at the men’s feet. In a huddle they rush tumultuously +away with drooping heads and arms to the open rear +doorway and out through it, passing in front of +<span class="smcap">Myrto</span> and her wheel and followed by <span class="smcap">Graea</span> lashing +furiously. Some of the fugitives, as they drop on +all fours near the exit, are seen to have already +developed curly pigs’ tails at their posteriors. As the +victims rush forth</i> Mikkos <i>springs upon the empty +throne of <span class="smcap">Circe</span> and balancing himself upon its arms +gazes intently into the bowl on the table before him, +while <span class="smcap">Myrto</span> sets her wheel revolving and humming +loudly. The drop-curtain falls just as the door closes +behind the herd and <span class="smcap">Graea</span> disappearing over the +corridor.</i>]</p> + +<p>The several positions at the fall of the curtain are as follows: +<span class="smcap">Circe</span> stands upon the dais with wand raised in the attitude +described. <span class="smcap">Myrto</span> sits at her wheel, which turns more and +more slowly as the curtain descends. <span class="smcap">Philinna</span> and <span class="smcap">Thermia</span> +stand near the boudoir, still holding their pitchers, the hand +of one girl resting on the other’s shoulder. <i>Mikkos</i>, poised +upon <span class="smcap">Circe’s</span> chair, his head lower than his tail, pores +intently over the punch-bowl. No person exhibits signs of +amusement or excitement of any sort. Their faces are serene, +their figures motionless. The wheel comes to a standstill just +as the descending curtain hides it.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_84">[84]</span></p> + +<h3>VII</h3> + +<div class="scene"> + +<p>The same as Scenes III and V. The Seashore. <span class="smcap">Eurylochus</span> +is still seated on the stone by the ship, gloomy and dejected. +The other men stand in a group not far from him, apparently +discussing some serious proposal.</p> + +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">First Sailor</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Anyway he ordered us to stay here and guard the +ship.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Philemon</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Just so; I believe in obeying orders myself; but, +lads, this is an extraordinary case.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Second Sailor</span></p> + +<p class="prose">A case it is! But the commander’s equal to it I +reckon.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Xenias</span></p> + +<p class="prose">The commander’s equal to anything on a square +deal. But it’s odds here against one man; +he’ll need help if the land lies the way the +mate makes it out.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Eurylochus</span></p> + +<p class="dir">[<i>Turning and facing the others without rising</i>]</p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Are ye all mad, and will not lay to heart<span class="pagenum" id="Page_85">[85]</span></div> + <div class="verse indent0">The sights and sounds of foul bedevilment</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Haunting this cursed island? Will ye follow</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Into the pit the steps of that rash man,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Foolhardy Ulysses?—the same who prick’d us on</div> + <div class="verse indent0">To explore the ogre’s cavern, where six brave men</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Were sever’d limbmeal and devour’d!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Several Voices</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Out! out!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Xenias</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Bother the ogre! The commander’s started now to +pull half the ship’s company out of a hole and +if a human subject could compass the business +he’s it. But if there’s a dash of witchcraft +here, we ought to be with him and +shoulder our share.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">First Sailor</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Ay, ay! that’s the talk!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Eurylochus</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">What signifies mere number, when mortal wills</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Clash with uncanny spirits? It is all over</div> + <div class="verse indent0">With him and them!—We are enough to row</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Our galley launch’d and from these shores deliver’d.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_86">[86]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Several Voices</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Ho, shame! shame!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Philemon</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Mark my words, lads; if the other fellows have +got to trot round in wolf and tiger skins +we’re bound to go on all fours along with ’em +and not leave ’em in the lurch. If the commander’s +beating his way back we shall meet +him on the trip; if he isn’t, he’ll need help +for certain. We’ll walk into that domicile, +witch or no witch!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Second Sailor</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Take her by storm!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Several Voices</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Right, right! Come on! come on!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Xenias</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Eurylochus here’ll stand shipguard. He won’t +shove her off all alone I reckon.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Philemon</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Take up your traps now! Lively!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_87">[87]</span></p> + +<p class="dir">[<i>The men stir about, making ready for their departure.</i>]</p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent32">Here we go!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i>They march away briskly, going out as the other +party and <span class="smcap">Ulysses</span> had gone. <span class="smcap">Philemon</span> leads; +<span class="smcap">Xenias</span> brings up the rear, watchfully.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Xenias</span></p> + +<p class="dir">[<i>Turning back, at the last moment</i>]</p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Don’t let her fly away, old man;</div> + <div class="verse indent0">If you hear hell howling, it’s <i>us</i>!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i>As the party disappears <span class="smcap">Eurylochus</span> with a +gesture of despair flings himself down by the keel of +the vessel.</i>]</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_88">[88]</span></p> + +<h3>VIII</h3> + +<div class="scene"> + +<p>A grove upon sloping ground near <span class="smcap">Circe’s</span> palace. Large +trees cast deep shadows with sunny spaces between. The +mansion itself is not visible; but on the Left at some elevation +a glimpse is afforded of the court-yard wall. A faint +pathway amid shrubbery winds from the Right front upward +and out on the Left at the rear.</p> + +<p>Enter <span class="smcap">Ulysses</span> at the Right, tracing the path slowly and +cautiously. Perceiving the wall above and before him he +pauses, moves his right hand involuntary toward his sword-hilt +and lifts the left to his lips meditatively. While he thus +stands reconnoitering and pondering, <span class="smcap">Mercury</span> suddenly +appears before him, stepping noiselessly from the shadow of a +tree upon the Left. At this apparition <span class="smcap">Ulysses</span> draws back +an instant with head slightly bowed, while his hand leaves +the sword and is lifted to a reverential gesture. The demeanor +of <span class="smcap">Mercury</span> is easy and gracious. His insignia, though +plainly recognizable, are less conspicuous and brilliant than +they appeared in Scene II.</p> + +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mercury</span></p> + +<p class="dir">[<i>Taking the up-lifted hand of Ulysses</i>]</p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0"></div> + <div class="verse indent0">Whither now, fate-worn wanderer, whither tending</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Thread’st thou the dim paths of this briery steep?</div> + <div class="verse indent0">What region holds thee or perchance what guile</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Lurks in its mazy folds, wouldst thou not prove?—</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Ere to that dome ascending, where in foul sties<span class="pagenum" id="Page_89">[89]</span></div> + <div class="verse indent0">Thy luckless comrades grovel now and groan,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">To swinish shape by the enchantress changed!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i>As the god speaks he withdraws his hand and +indicates the direction of the palace. <span class="smcap">Ulysses</span> recoils +slightly at the last words of <span class="smcap">Mercury</span>.</i>]</p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">One only, so minded that in Circe’s song</div> + <div class="verse indent0">He read the bane it glozed, did value well</div> + <div class="verse indent0">His safety and proclaim’d their loss.—Whom thou</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Aimest forsooth to rescue and redeem!</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Rather methinks the porcine couch to share</div> + <div class="verse indent0">With them and vanish from men, came not</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Some guardian hand between.—But lo! there grows</div> + <div class="verse indent0">An antidote—a good drug, that shall check</div> + <div class="verse indent0">The baleful magic of her potions.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i><span class="smcap">Mercury</span> pulls from the ground, moving aside the +undergrowth which concealed it, a small plant and +shows it to <span class="smcap">Ulysses</span>.</i>]</p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent34">See!</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Black at the root, milk-white the flower; ’tis <i>moly</i>:</div> + <div class="verse indent0">So to the immortals known; of men, scarce found.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i><span class="smcap">Ulysses</span> receives the herb from the hand of the god +with an air of profound attention and a shade of +wonder.</i>]</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_90">[90]</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Now may thy steps to yon weird mansion mount</div> + <div class="verse indent0">And tread its halls unscathed, Ulysses, if</div> + <div class="verse indent0">My mandate thou shalt heed and ponder well.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i><span class="smcap">Ulysses</span> shifts his attentive regard from the plant +in his hand to the speaker.</i>]</p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Her song will thrill thee, but the transforming spell</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Shall break before the potent herb thou holdest.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Undaunted wilt thou enter; nor be shamed</div> + <div class="verse indent0">If thy quick pulses bound when Circe’s glance</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Encounters thine, and the soft audible charm</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Of low-voiced invitation laps thee round.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Thou may’st admire and still be master. Straight</div> + <div class="verse indent0">With her own hand a fragrant wine-cup filling,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">When by her side she thrones thee, she will proffer</div> + <div class="verse indent0">And bid thee drink—it is the poison’d chalice.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Yet quaff thou undismay’d, Ulysses. Then,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">So soon’t is swallow’d and thyself unchanged,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Her magic wand wielded in vain, draw thou</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Swiftly thy sword and rush as if to slay</div> + <div class="verse indent0">At the enchantress with high-threatening blade.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i><span class="smcap">Ulysses’</span> look of wonderment increases as <span class="smcap">Mercury</span> +pauses.</i>]</p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">The issue thou wilt mark. But let not pity</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Nor the new spell of female blandishment<span class="pagenum" id="Page_91">[91]</span></div> + <div class="verse indent0">O’ercome thy senses or disarm thy hand,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Ere to its mastery yet once more she yields</div> + <div class="verse indent0">And their true forms to thy changed mates restores.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Ulysses</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">O gracious Helper, it is thy spirit that guides</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Where eye of mortal swerves: to whom full oft</div> + <div class="verse indent0">We pour’d thank-offering at the banquet’s close.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mercury</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Who himself well bethinks, the gods assist.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Of drugs and arts uncanny mere human prudence</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Compasseth not, Ulysses, sure defeat.—</div> + <div class="verse indent0">But in her craft once baffled, ’tis with the <i>woman</i>,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">No more the enchantress, thou wilt deal thereafter.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Nor are those powers to be despised, which oft</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Compel a conqueror’s fealty and confuse</div> + <div class="verse indent0">The sober aims of confident wisdom.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i>While <span class="smcap">Ulysses</span> again looks down reflectively at the +plant he holds <span class="smcap">Mercury</span> suddenly disappears. +<span class="smcap">Ulysses</span>, looking up and seeing the god no longer, +throws a keen glance in the direction of the wall. He +then tastes and swallows a morsel of the herb; and as +he moves on and goes out at the Left with firm step +the music of <span class="smcap">Circe’s</span> song is faintly heard behind +the scenes.</i>]</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_92">[92]</span></p> + +<h3>IX</h3> + +<div class="scene"> + +<p>The same as Scenes II and IV. The banquet-hall. The common +chairs have been removed. There are cups and a bowl +on the table at the Right. The Enchantress and her three +nymphs are in their usual places when the curtain rises: +<span class="smcap">Circe</span> sitting; <span class="smcap">Philinna</span> and <span class="smcap">Thermia</span> standing; <span class="smcap">Myrto</span> +seated at her wheel which she turns slowly. The attitude of +the persons is one of expectancy. In a moment <span class="smcap">Circe</span>, without +turning her face, signs to <span class="smcap">Myrto</span> with her left hand while +with the right she draws the wand on the table nearer. The +wheel ceases to revolve.</p> + +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Now Thermia!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i><span class="smcap">Thermia</span> throws open the door behind the dais. An +instant later <span class="smcap">Ulysses</span> enters, slowly but unhesitatingly, +pausing as he stands on the platform exactly where +<span class="smcap">Mercury</span> stood in Scene II. His look is directed +straight at the Enchantress. His right arm is crossed +downward upon his breast, the hand under the +mantle. A trace of wonder or fascination passes over +his face on meeting <span class="smcap">Circe’s</span> gaze, while a similar +feeling of surprise is for a moment betrayed by her +also. As she speaks she rises from her chair.</i>]</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_93">[93]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Welcome, sir leader!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i><span class="smcap">Ulysses</span> bows slightly. He does not remove his +helmet.</i>]</p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent22">Thou art</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Too far by thine own men outstripp’d, even though</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Their famish’d weary members sought repose</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Prompt and appropriate.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i><span class="smcap">Ulysses</span> bends his look more sternly upon the +speaker.</i>]</p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent24">Pray advance; and take</div> + <div class="verse indent0">From our own hand, though proffer’d late,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Cordial refreshment.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i>He moves slowly forward. <span class="smcap">Philinna</span> draws well +back the throne of <span class="smcap">Circe</span> and presents the other one. +With a gracious gesture <span class="smcap">Circe</span> waves <span class="smcap">Ulysses</span> toward +the second throne. He passes in front of her and seats +himself. She sits again, served by <span class="smcap">Philinna</span>.</i>]</p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent22">Thy silence augurs much</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Of rude unfriendly greetings and rebuff</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Elsewhere.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i>While speaking she fills a beaker from the bowl.</i>]</p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent12">But here are restful words and welcome</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Right hospitable.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_94">[94]</span></p> + +<p class="dir">[<i>Her right hand closes firmly over the wand, while +with the left she presents the cup.</i>]</p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent18">So drink and be at peace!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i>Still keeping his eye fixed upon <span class="smcap">Circe</span>, <span class="smcap">Ulysses</span> +raises the cup to his lips and drains it. Immediately +the gracious look of the Enchantress changes. Rising +partly in her seat and bending forward, she strikes +him smartly with her wand and holds it threateningly +as she speaks.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Hence to the sty! Go, join thy wallowing mates!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i>Instantly, feeling that the potion has not harmed +him, <span class="smcap">Ulysses</span> springs erect, swiftly draws his sword +and raising it aloft rushes upon the Enchantress as +if to kill her. With a loud cry she starts back, causing +the throne to slide away behind her; then dropping +her wand she springs forward under the threatening +sword-arm in suppliant attitude. <span class="smcap">Philinna</span>, at first +shrinking back in terror, directly as <span class="smcap">Circe</span> falls at +<span class="smcap">Ulysses’</span> feet follows her; and kneeling, shelters her +mistress’ head with her right arm, while the left is +raised in deprecating gesture. At the same time +<span class="smcap">Thermia</span> starts a step forward with her right hand +<span class="pagenum" id="Page_95">[95]</span>lifted, the left pressed to her bosom. <span class="smcap">Myrto</span>, after a +first look of alarm, reaches behind her and throws +open the Left rear door, where</i> Mikkos <i>appears. He +seems excited. <span class="smcap">Myrto</span> seizes his chain. At the Right +rear entrance, <span class="smcap">Graea</span> is seen glaring furtively into +the room.—<span class="smcap">Circe</span> speaks as <span class="smcap">Ulysses</span> seems to +hesitate to strike the fatal blow.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">What man art thou? What mortal hath this wonder</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Unheard of wrought, these potions to abide?</div> + <div class="verse indent0">For never, never did other lips unblighted</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Press the drugg’d bowl, save thine!—Ah, yes; ’twas true:</div> + <div class="verse indent0"><i>Ulysses</i> thou art, whom Mercury foretold,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">From Trojan field thy lone bark homeward steering.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">He, he hath found thee moly! And I thought</div> + <div class="verse indent0">It were Eurylochus, whom his followers named;</div> + <div class="verse indent0">The craven, the woman-hater!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i><span class="smcap">Ulysses</span> lowers his weapon, still grasping it firmly. +His stern look relaxes slightly as <span class="smcap">Circe</span> and <span class="smcap">Philinna</span>, +kneeling, lift their faces to him with aspect softened +to the expression of pleading. <span class="smcap">Thermia</span> steps nearer, +intently observing the scene; while <span class="smcap">Graea</span>, entering +<span class="pagenum" id="Page_96">[96]</span>the room, and <span class="smcap">Myrto</span>, holding</i> Mikkos’ <i>chain, also +move slightly forward. At this juncture all of the +persons have come to form nearly a single group.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent30">O Ulysses!</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Thrice valiant, thrice in wisdom proved, not thee</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Would Circe in foul brutal shape behold;</div> + <div class="verse indent0">But as thou art!—Return, return thy sword</div> + <div class="verse indent0">To its safe cover!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i><span class="smcap">Ulysses</span> steps back a pace, and <span class="smcap">Circe</span> rises to her +feet, holding the hand of <span class="smcap">Philinna</span> who has risen first.</i>]</p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent20">What use have we for war,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Whom fate and fortune fashion’d to be friends?</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i>With deliberation <span class="smcap">Ulysses</span> sheathes his sword, +falling back still farther. <span class="smcap">Circe</span> and <span class="smcap">Philinna</span> +move forward toward him.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Thermia</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Happy are they who find a friend in Circe,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Sir stranger!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i>His countenance remains unmoved as he divides his +attention between <span class="smcap">Circe</span> and <span class="smcap">Thermia</span> after a +suspicious glance at Mikkos and <span class="smcap">Graea</span>.</i>]</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_97">[97]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Nay, doubt not, but be refresh’d!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i>She signs to <span class="smcap">Thermia</span>, who shows <span class="smcap">Ulysses</span> to the +throne which <span class="smcap">Mercury</span> had occupied in Scene II. +As he sits he doffs his helmet, which <span class="smcap">Thermia</span> receives +and hangs upon the wall. <span class="smcap">Circe</span> resumes her seat. +She speaks while <span class="smcap">Thermia</span> serves <span class="smcap">Ulysses</span> at the +other table.</i>]</p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">And be thy mind at rest. No more of drifting</div> + <div class="verse indent0">On the dark seas; sure knowledge shall illume</div> + <div class="verse indent0">The pathways of thy homeward voyage, Ulysses.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i>A pause. With troubled look he barely tastes what +is set before him.</i>]</p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Ah, weary heart! why thus</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Sit’st thou all-speechless, tasting not the food</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Set guileless by thy hand? Believ’st thou not</div> + <div class="verse indent0">My plain assurance and changed mood? Dost hold</div> + <div class="verse indent0">The word of Circe in no honor because</div> + <div class="verse indent0">With cunning art she baffles and disarms</div> + <div class="verse indent0">The unworthy false petitioner?</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Ulysses</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Fair Circe, dread enchantress, what true man</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Could eat and be at comfort, whilst he knows<span class="pagenum" id="Page_98">[98]</span></div> + <div class="verse indent0">His trusty comrades lie imprison’d, bent low</div> + <div class="verse indent0">To bestial habit?—Nay, if thy alter’d mien</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Harbors indeed the good-will it portends,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Then first let me behold my men restored</div> + <div class="verse indent0">To their own shapes. No falsehood stamp’d their errand,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Nor undeserving were they in themselves.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Deserve those well of their commander, who lose</div> + <div class="verse indent0">His very name and tidings from their thoughts?</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Ulysses</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Another led them; and, the leader failing,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">The follower who forgets may be forgiven.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Eurylochus wins slight mercy by that word.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Ulysses</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Eurylochus won the birthright of the wary.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">A father art thou to thy men, Ulysses:</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Even as I guard with jealous motherly eye<span class="pagenum" id="Page_99">[99]</span></div> + <div class="verse indent0">The welfare of these nymphs. Nor hast thou long</div> + <div class="verse indent0">To wait, ere the whole frolic throng shall make</div> + <div class="verse indent0">My portals ring with greetings of their captain.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Not those alone whom we repress’d and punish’d</div> + <div class="verse indent0">And for thy sake will pardon, but likewise they</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Who tarry by the shore—for well I know</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Wily Ulysses staked not all his forces</div> + <div class="verse indent0">On a forlorn wild venture.—Nay, doubt not;</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Even Eurylochus shall be reconciled!</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Go, Graea; Myrto; seek the ship, and teach them</div> + <div class="verse indent0">The way to find us. Leave not one unbidden!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Ulysses</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Great Circe, I will trust thee; ’tis sore need!</div> + <div class="verse indent0">By thy sage guidance, or in no wise, we reach</div> + <div class="verse indent0">The desired haven.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<p class="dir">[<i>To <span class="smcap">Myrto</span> and <span class="smcap">Graea</span> who have hesitated as if +awaiting further command. They go out at Right C, +accompanied by</i> Mikkos.]</p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent20">Speed now! the shadow creeps</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Well past the noontide mark. Away, away!—</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Noble Ulysses, thou shalt soon behold them.—</div> + <div class="verse indent0">But first, my Thermia, show our gracious guest<span class="pagenum" id="Page_100">[100]</span></div> + <div class="verse indent0">The bathing chambers, where by warm showers assuaged</div> + <div class="verse indent0">His long sea-weariness may release him.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i><span class="smcap">Ulysses</span> bows to <span class="smcap">Circe</span>. He unslings his sword, +which <span class="smcap">Thermia</span> receives and hangs up near the +helmet. She then conducts him out at Left 2. At the +same moment when <span class="smcap">Ulysses</span> puts off his sword, +<span class="smcap">Philinna</span> lifts <span class="smcap">Circe’s</span> wand from the floor where it +had fallen.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Philinna</span></p> + +<p class="dir">[<i>Handing the wand to <span class="smcap">Circe</span>, who receives it as it +were unconsciously</i>]</p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">O dearest lady!</div> + <div class="verse indent0">What chance, what change befalls us? O! how dared</div> + <div class="verse indent0">That strange, still man to lift his dreadful sword</div> + <div class="verse indent0">As if to kill you? Are his devices stronger</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Than your own arts? O, how could you pretend</div> + <div class="verse indent0">To cherish and befriend him!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent30">Nay, Philinna:</div> + <div class="verse indent0">I am not feigning. Oft had I mused and ponder’d</div> + <div class="verse indent0">On Mercury’s warning and Ulysses’ name.<span class="pagenum" id="Page_101">[101]</span></div> + <div class="verse indent0">Nor did I dread his coming. But strange haps</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Disturb’d my vision and I knew him not.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">My potions could indeed avail no longer,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Their cure and antidote once found. Yet never</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Into unworthy hands do gods resign</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Their priceless secrets. No; I would not harm</div> + <div class="verse indent0">A man so strong and wise! It is the <i>first</i>!—</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Now go, Philinna, and lay my simples ready,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Which for the counter-charm I shall employ,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">To change his comrades back.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i><span class="smcap">Philinna</span>, who looks wonderingly at <span class="smcap">Circe</span> and +seems hardly to comprehend her demeanor, withdraws +slowly, going out at Right 2. <span class="smcap">Circe</span> casts a glance +where <span class="smcap">Ulysses</span> had gone out; then, looking down at +the wand held loosely in her hand, soliloquizes.</i>]</p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Yes, yes; there is</div> + <div class="verse indent0">No falsehood on the lip, when the heart guides</div> + <div class="verse indent0">To new unwonted utterance, though it seem</div> + <div class="verse indent0">All former strains and strivings to belie.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">His coming I fear’d not; I rather craved</div> + <div class="verse indent0">To behold the promised visitor whose shrewd wit</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Should test my powers of magic and perchance</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Turn them (as hath befallen) from woe to weal<span class="pagenum" id="Page_102">[102]</span></div> + <div class="verse indent0">For him and his. Yet till I saw I doubted;</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Nor knew, first seeing.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i>She clasps her hands at her back, holding the wand +behind her.</i>]</p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent24">O, there is a way</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Surer than any drug, to bind wise hearts!</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Wielding no wand of transformation, but</div> + <div class="verse indent0">With fine invisible weapons to o’ercome</div> + <div class="verse indent0">His might who seems to conquer; and reveal</div> + <div class="verse indent0">What weakness lurks beneath. And Circe’s arts</div> + <div class="verse indent0">(Which sooner aim to hinder than to harm)</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Shall still fail not!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i>Re-enter <span class="smcap">Thermia</span>, who begins to put the table in +order where Ulysses had been served.</i>]</p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent22">Fair Thermia, we shall need</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Straightway new-garnish’d tables and the plenty</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Of a redoubled evening banquet. Soon</div> + <div class="verse indent0">That eager company, Myrto’s charge, will troop</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Past porch and threshold to the expected board—</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Not indisposed, I fancy, toward such welcome.—</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Ay, forthwith, Thermia!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i><span class="smcap">Thermia</span> sounds a whistle which hangs at her girdle, +and other nymphs enter and proceed to deck the tables.</i>]</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_103">[103]</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent24">Even our guest, their captain,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Will find his zest, when in good sooth he sees</div> + <div class="verse indent0">His two ship-companies made one.—Ah, there;</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Even now they come!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i>A clambering and murmur are heard. The door +leading from the porch flies open, and <span class="smcap">Ulysses’</span> +company, headed by <span class="smcap">Philemon</span> and <span class="smcap">Xenias</span>, enter +precipitately, though not in rude disorder, their +faces beaming with the excitement of wonder and +expectancy. <span class="smcap">Circe</span> stands at her usual place, holding +the wand with her hands clasped in front of her, and +<span class="smcap">Philinna</span> appears at the door behind. <span class="smcap">Thermia</span> and +her helpers desist from their task at the tables as the +men enter, and draw back near the exits. The nymphs +stand motionless and placid during the remainder of +the scene, taking no part in the action and unnoticed +by the other persons.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Philemon</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Madam, we’re a bit unceremonious, no doubt. But +our errand’s an urgent one; and we encountered +an invitation after a manner, if there be +no mistake about it.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_104">[104]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">All ceremony shall be waived, good sir. What hap</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Fosters this urgency?</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Philemon</span></p> + +<p class="prose">We’re <i>Ulysses’</i> men, lady! come to seek him and +deliver him—by your leave. He cast off alone +when the leader of the other watch came back +from here in such a blue funk; and he ordered +us to wait for him by the ship. But we felt a +trifle uneasy, after that yarn of snakes and +fireworks Eurylochus spun for us, and followed +to help. We’d nigh about made the +top, when we met your two maids, ma’am, +and the monkey. We knew they must hail +from some witch-pen or other for certain, +when we spied such a bunch of triplets, and +we veered off a point or two at first; but the +little black-eyed one—she as had the ape in +tow—spoke us so fair and told such a straight +story, how the commander was safe and +sound and everybody happy up here, and you +had sent specially to invite us, that we felt +mighty encouraged to believe her and headed +<span class="pagenum" id="Page_105">[105]</span>straight for the top again, while they went +down to fetch Eurylochus;—especially seeing +we had made up our minds—begging your +pardon again, lady—to effect an entrance +anyway.—But where is he?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Your entrance had been barr’d nowise, when once</div> + <div class="verse indent0">You had named Ulysses—which your mates forgot,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">And came to grief thereby.—But you shall see him.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">There hangs his sword, his helm.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">He comes; he has heard you!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i><span class="smcap">Ulysses</span> enters at Left 2 behind the group of men, +who turn quickly. His appearance is imposing, his +dress brilliant.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent28">For me, I have another</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Business to set on foot.—Philinna; ready?</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i><span class="smcap">Philinna</span> signs affirmatively, and as <span class="smcap">Ulysses</span> greets +his men <span class="smcap">Circe</span> goes out at Right 2, <span class="smcap">Philinna</span> remaining +at the doorway.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Ulysses</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Xenias! good Philemon!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_106">[106]</span></p> + +<p class="dir">[<i>All throng about their commander with hand-shaking +and joyous exclamations.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Philemon</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">’Tis you? You are here, sir?—and all right!</div> + <div class="verse indent0">’Twas a true tale, then, by the great gods!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Ulysses</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Ah, you see I slipt not.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Xenias</span></p> + +<p class="prose">But it wasn’t long before we slipt after you! +Mind you, sir, we didn’t wait for the summons.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Ulysses</span></p> + +<p class="prose">’Twas a pardonable impatience, I acknowledge.</p> + +<p class="dir">[<i>A voice raised in sharp tone of command, followed +by a sudden uproar, is heard behind the scenes. +<span class="smcap">Circe</span> enters quickly at Right C, with her wand +raised high, which as she comes in she lowers and +points backward. Both the rear doors fly open. In +their proper persons the men who were changed to +swine burst in abruptly upon the scene, one or two or +three at a time, stopping and gazing about them with +<span class="pagenum" id="Page_107">[107]</span>puzzled and amazed expression. They rub their eyes +or tap their foreheads, till gradually recollecting themselves +they recognize their situation. The restored +men seem to have gained in comeliness; their faces +are fresh, their clothing is new, presenting a contrast +to the well-worn garments of the other party. <span class="smcap">Theron</span> +appears even stouter than before; his cook’s cap and +dress are dazzling white. <span class="smcap">Elpenor</span>, near him, has +become sleeker, though no less slender than ever. All +the men are serious; and the re-transformed +exhibit profound emotion, weeping as they recognize +their companions and the commander. The meeting +is an occasion rather for action than for speech: its +words are chiefly outcries and the ejaculation of +familiar names. The throng becomes more calm and +quiet when the Enchantress, who has herself been +visibly moved, at length speaks, standing at the head +of her table.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Cease; cease, good men! Enough of tears! Yield now</div> + <div class="verse indent0">To the bright hour; and from your much-tried hearts</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Let present peace and comfort rub away<span class="pagenum" id="Page_108">[108]</span></div> + <div class="verse indent0">The black unhandsome stains of foul mischance.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Here stand ye face to face and hand to hand,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Unscathed, unconquer’d. Winds and wild seas and all</div> + <div class="verse indent0">The weary thankless strain of laboring oar,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Duress and guile and hostile rude encounter,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Have but conspired to point you to the fairest</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Of restful shores.—Ulysses, in good time,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">After due respite, if thou cravest still</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Some farther convoy, ’tis secure. But now</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Mirth, pleasure, shall prevail.—Only there lacks</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Yet one I would fain welcome, though himself</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Of faint reciprocation.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Ulysses</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Gracious lady, I am confident that Eurylochus +will conclude to join us when once informed +of our situation and finding himself left +permanently alone.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Xenias</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Belike he may take to the woods, your honor, when +the triplets heave in sight.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<p class="prose">O, Mikkos will manage that!</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_109">[109]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Elpenor</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Eurylochus climbs trees.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Theron</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Avast there! Mikkos is the monkey. Hast left thy +memory in the hog-pen, boy?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Glaucus</span></p> + +<p class="prose">[<i>Who has been on the lookout</i>] Sail ho! They are +boarding the gangway already, ma’am.</p> + +<p class="dir">[<i>Enter from the porch <span class="smcap">Myrto</span>, leading</i> Mikkos; <i>then +<span class="smcap">Eurylochus</span>; <span class="smcap">Graea</span> behind him. The mate advances +hesitatingly, but is closely followed up by the swine-maiden. +As he perceives <span class="smcap">Ulysses</span> and the men his +expression is partly of relief, partly of shamefacedness. +His alarm has not entirely left him, but he +casts shy and suspicious glances toward <span class="smcap">Circe</span> while +<span class="smcap">Myrto</span> speaks.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Myrto</span></p> + +<p class="prose">We have fetched him, my lady, though I believe +he never would have been caught if there had +not been three of us together. We found him +down by the little bay where their ship is +drawn ashore; and when he saw us he started +<span class="pagenum" id="Page_110">[110]</span>to run into the water. But Graea waded out +farther than he dared to go. Then he climbed +up into the fig-tree; but Mikkos climbed up +still higher, so he had to come down directly +where I was standing close to the roots of it; +although he seemed to fear me the most of all.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Elpenor</span></p> + +<p class="prose">[<i>Interrupting</i>] You turn the whirligig.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Myrto</span></p> + +<p class="prose">We had him between us now, where he couldn’t +get away; and I assured him the captain was +safe, and told him how we had just met a +party of his companions and invited them for +you. For all that he didn’t want to come; but +Graea stood close behind him and kept walking +until we got him here.</p> + +<p class="dir">[<i>The men do not laugh at <span class="smcap">Eurylochus</span>, though some +smile faintly, and <span class="smcap">Circe</span> is visibly amused.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Ulysses</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">[<i>Seriously</i>] Eurylochus, all is well. Be thyself again.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Bygones shall be bygones. There is naught to fear.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_111">[111]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Indeed, sir, it is as your commander says. There is +naught to fear; and all is well, now that you +have deigned to make up the perfect number +of my company, so the entertainment may +proceed. The tables are ready garnished, +waiting for the viands only. You shall all +find seats.</p> + +<p class="dir">[<i>All the men except <span class="smcap">Eurylochus</span> seat themselves +in a quiet and orderly manner at both tables without +discrimination of the two watches. <span class="smcap">Ulysses</span> +sits at the head of the table by the dais. <span class="smcap">Myrto</span> +and <span class="smcap">Graea</span> have withdrawn to the back of the +room. <span class="smcap">Circe</span>, still standing, claps her hands +and the nymphs at the exits disappear, to bring +the courses.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Eurylochus</span></p> + +<p class="prose">You make occasional exceptions no doubt, madam; +nevertheless I would take my oath upon it +that <i>that</i> was once a man!</p> + +<p class="dir">[<i>He points at</i> Mikkos, <i>who, released by <span class="smcap">Myrto</span>, has +just jumped into his chair by <span class="smcap">Circe</span> as she seats herself. +The ape shows his teeth and begins to raise +himself by the hands.</i>]</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_112">[112]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<p class="prose">[<i>Laughing</i>] That was a manful <i>thinker</i> once. Sit; +sit, kind sir!</p> + +<p class="dir">[<i>The curtain falls as <span class="smcap">Eurylochus</span> takes his seat +near <span class="smcap">Ulysses</span> amid a buzz of merriment.</i>]</p> + +<p class="titlepage">END OF FIRST ACT</p> + +<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop"> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_113">[113]</span></p> + +<h2 class="nobreak" id="ACT_II">ACT TWO</h2> + +<figure class="figcenter illowp100" style="max-width: 28.125em;"> + <img class="w100" src="images/header-act-two.jpg" alt="ACT TWO"> +</figure> + +<figure class="figcenter illowp100" style="max-width: 43.75em;"> + <img class="w100" src="images/header-the-second-act.jpg" alt="THE SECOND ACT"> +</figure> + +<h3>I</h3> + +<div class="scene"> + +<div> +<img class="dropcap" src="images/dropcap-t.jpg" alt=""> +</div> + +<p class="dropcap">The back of <span class="smcap">Circe’s</span> palace, late in the +afternoon, one year later than the occurrences +of the First Act. The back of the +building lies toward the setting sun, +whose declining rays are now intercepted +and softened into shade by foliage and +flitting clouds. The pale yellow walls and +tall narrow windows and the one central entrance on this side +are not obscured by vines and trailing plants, but cleanly +sheltered by a lofty colonnade which runs the entire length of +the edifice, with wide low pavement only a step higher than +the lawn that borders it. The veranda-floor and the plinth are +dewy with freshly sprinkled water. The green sward of the +foreground is varied by flower-beds and dotted with luxuriant +trees, a bower and seats near by. Here there is no fountain; +but a streamlet, issuing from an archway at the Right corner +of the palace, winds its way downward across the flowery +slope. A peacock struts and spreads his fan in one of the open +places. Some utterances of persons represented indicate that +the situation affords glimpses of the sea.</p> + +<p>There are no suggestions of witchcraft or magic in the present +scene. Where the anterior façade of the palace seemed +weird or uncanny, the rear elevation and its belongings +wear rather an idyllic aspect.</p> + +<p>The curtain rising discovers three couples severally grouped. +Upon the veranda, at the Left, <span class="smcap">Circe</span> and <span class="smcap">Ulysses</span> are seated +<span class="pagenum" id="Page_114">[114]</span>opposite each other at a small table, upon which are cups +and a vase of flowers, while a nymph occasionally passes to +and fro, serving them with wine from within. <span class="smcap">Circe</span> is not +attired as enchantress. She wears neither her black robe nor +the coronal of pearls. The prevailing color of her Grecian +dress is amethyst, and her hair is loosely confined by a +narrow band of gold.—On the Right, at the farther end of +the veranda, <span class="smcap">Philemon</span> and <span class="smcap">Philinna</span> sit side by side in +confidential attitude.—Upon the lawn, in the foreground +near the centre, far enough from the others to converse +gently without being overheard by them, are seen <span class="smcap">Xenias</span> +and <span class="smcap">Thermia</span>: the former seated carelessly facing sidewise +toward the colonnade; the latter standing by a tall shrub, +cutting flowers which she gathers in the fold of her garment.</p> + +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Thermia</span></p> + +<p class="dir">[<i>Who stands with her back to the veranda</i>]</p> + +<p class="prose">If you will take a good long look, Xenias, just +where you are looking now, you will see +exactly why you and I are a whole lot luckier +than some others I might name.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Xenias</span></p> + +<p class="prose">How is that? What’s the mystification now, Miss +Inscrutable? I see only what we see every day; +and no great signs of bad luck about them yet.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_115">[115]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Thermia</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Of course we see it every day! And every day is +making it worse for them, friend Xenias. Do +you suppose they can keep this sort of thing +up forever?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Xenias</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Well, what if they can’t? I’ve no doubt the illusion +is mighty pleasant while it lasts.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Thermia</span></p> + +<p class="prose">And so much the more painful when it comes to +an end—but you and I have kept our wits +about us, Xenias.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Xenias</span></p> + +<p class="prose">And have been uncommon good friends all the +time, you mean, Thermia—Well, I admit it’s +the best way. But they don’t think so.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Thermia</span></p> + +<p class="prose">They think of nothing! But it will set them thinking, +when the time comes for you to sail away.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Xenias</span></p> + +<p class="prose">If that time ever does come! The commander has +got to order it; and he doesn’t seem very likely +<span class="pagenum" id="Page_116">[116]</span>to speak the word until your lady orders <i>him</i>. +It’s true some of the lads are getting restive +and tired of dilly-dallying, as they call it, +here in this blessed island!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Thermia</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Yes, and Graea gives me to understand that +Eurylochus is going about secretly stirring +them up and wants them to put on a bold +front and demand that something shall be +done.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Xenias</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Ah, so? He hasn’t said a word to me or Philemon. +I reckon he thinks Philemon and Xenias are +in the same box.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Thermia</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Eurylochus doesn’t know the difference, of course! +I shall be sorry when you have to go, Xenias; +I shall miss you sadly after you are gone. But +it will simply <i>kill</i> Philinna.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Xenias</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Well now, what if Philemon should take her home +<span class="pagenum" id="Page_117">[117]</span>to Ithaca with him for his wife? <i>He</i> hasn’t +got any Penelope waiting for him there.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Thermia</span></p> + +<p class="prose">O heavens! And do you believe Philinna would +ever leave Circe, or that Circe would ever let +her go?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Xenias</span></p> + +<p class="prose">And do you believe Philemon would ever leave +Philinna behind, or that Philinna would ever +let him go without her?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Thermia</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Xenias, it’s a pity about them both—the greatest +pity in the world! As for Circe, she really +admires your captain; great men are scarce +enough, she says; but Circe will never lose +her head, even if Ulysses has lost his; nor will +either of them be quite heart-broken, be sure. +But Philinna! Philinna!</p> + +<p class="dir">[<i><span class="smcap">Circe</span>, who has been laughing merrily with <span class="smcap">Ulysses</span>, +claps her hands twice.</i>]</p> + +<p class="prose">Yes, now; here comes the music they feed on.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_118">[118]</span></p> + +<p class="dir">[<i><span class="smcap">Thermia</span> begins to move away as <span class="smcap">Thrattis</span> the +lute-girl enters from the palace in response to +<span class="smcap">Circe’s</span> summons.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Xenias</span></p> + +<p class="prose">But stay, Thermia, and let us hear it.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Thermia</span></p> + +<p class="prose">O, it will only be the same old songs! Besides, I +have my vases to fill.</p> + +<p class="dir">[<i>She goes out round the Right corner of the building. +<span class="smcap">Xenias</span> settles himself in a listening attitude.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Thrattis, we need thee still.—’Tis strange, Ulysses,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">How, like some thirst or hunger, each day return</div> + <div class="verse indent0">These tuneful memories!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Ulysses</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent24">Yet, fair Circe, charged</div> + <div class="verse indent0">With a more strange forgetfulness of all else</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Than that they celebrate.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent26">Hist, listen now!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_119">[119]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Thrattis</span></p> + +<p class="dir">[<i>Standing midway between the two couples on the +veranda, after a brief prelude upon her instrument, +sings.</i>]</p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Forget, forget! Ah, linger not</div> + <div class="verse indent2">By dreams of yesterday!</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Each vanish’d hour shall be forgot,</div> + <div class="verse indent2">Fresh phantasies hold sway.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">No lowlier crown the linden weaves</div> + <div class="verse indent2">Of tassel’d verdure now</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Because the old year’s scatter’d leaves</div> + <div class="verse indent2">Return not to the bough.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<p class="prose">[<i>While an interlude is played</i>] Our Thrattis echoes +thy thought, Ulysses; and indeed I find a +certain sort of wisdom in the ditty.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Ulysses</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Yet methinks it carries somewhat of a different +effect from the open intention of it.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent12">Wait, listen!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_120">[120]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Thrattis</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">[<i>Sings</i>] Forget, forget! In love’s demesnes</div> + <div class="verse indent2">No faded chaplet wear;</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Nor conjure phantoms from lost scenes,</div> + <div class="verse indent2">To sit unbidden there.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Round heaven her sign swift Iris sets,</div> + <div class="verse indent2">Flings forth her jewel’d zone:</div> + <div class="verse indent0">O, who beholds it but forgets</div> + <div class="verse indent2">The frowning storm-cloud flown?</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i>The singer bends her head to hide her face as she +sweeps the strings again.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Good Thrattis, thou art tired standing. Sit and +sip of the wine. Thou need’st sing no farther +now.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Philinna</span></p> + +<p class="prose">She weeps, my lady.</p> + +<p class="dir">[<i>As <span class="smcap">Thrattis</span>, declining the offered refreshment, +turns and goes within.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Poor soul! truly I pity her.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_121">[121]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Philemon</span></p> + +<p class="prose">But why does the girl weep, sweet Philinna? Has +she some express sorrow attending her?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Philinna</span></p> + +<p class="prose">O yes, Philemon; nor will she put it entirely away. +’Tis three years agone since she floated to our +island, lashed to some fragment of a vessel +from the north which the hurricane had +wrecked; but her father and two brothers +who so saved her life themselves perished in +the sea.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Philemon</span></p> + +<p class="prose">O, sad story; unhappy Thrattis! Yet so I do much +wonder at the song she chose to sing.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Philinna</span></p> + +<p class="prose">We could do little to assuage her grief. But Circe +has been kind to her and taught her the songs +she sings so sweetly to her lute.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Ulysses</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Perchance some such strains would comfort the +child as the captive Trojan maidens might +<span class="pagenum" id="Page_122">[122]</span>listen to betimes among us at the ships when +the harp was struck.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Pray what, Ulysses?</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Ulysses</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent20">Such as sounded praise</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Not for the living and the days we lived</div> + <div class="verse indent0">(Which with their moil and megrim did afford</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Scant food, I grant, for eulogy); but ever</div> + <div class="verse indent0">With vision backward turn’d the bard would seek</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Among long-treasured memories one most apt</div> + <div class="verse indent0">And draw it forth. Then did we lose all sense</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Of aching limbs, sore wounds, and comrades slain,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Whilst in high-swelling measures like great waves</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Of Iphitus or Heracles he sang—</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Glories of ancient men.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent24">It was fair medicine</div> + <div class="verse indent0">To still the pains ye dwelt in. In my isle</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Such cordials find not place.—But come, Ulysses,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">And see me prove the powers of that rare herb<span class="pagenum" id="Page_123">[123]</span></div> + <div class="verse indent0">Whereof I promised.—Philinna, attend us. Of simples</div> + <div class="verse indent0">My sampler art thou.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i><span class="smcap">Circe</span> laughs heartily as she utters the last words +and she and <span class="smcap">Ulysses</span> rise from their seats. <span class="smcap">Ulysses</span> +joins in the laugh. <span class="smcap">Philinna</span> smiles faintly and +seems loth to part from <span class="smcap">Philemon</span> as these two also +rise.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">[<i>Laughing again</i>] Thy Philemon</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Will not forget so soon.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i><span class="smcap">Circe</span> and <span class="smcap">Ulysses</span> go into the palace followed by +<span class="smcap">Philinna</span>.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Xenias</span></p> + +<p class="dir">[<i>As <span class="smcap">Philemon</span> turns toward him, stepping down +from the veranda</i>]</p> + +<p class="prose">The commander and our Lady of the Herbs seem +to be in a right merry mood, Philemon.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Philemon</span></p> + +<p class="prose">That they are indeed, to judge by the colors they +fly.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_124">[124]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Xenias</span></p> + +<p class="prose"><i>You</i> take it not quite so. And yet methinks you +have as good cause as they to be blithe.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Philemon</span></p> + +<p class="prose">I take your meaning, Xenias. Nevertheless I’m +sheer doubtful now and then—as though too +great happiness should somehow have a +sobering effect, as you might say, upon a +fellow.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Xenias</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Then belike when the commander sobers down a +bit he will pass the word for a home start.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Philemon</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Ay, truly I have thought of it.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Xenias</span></p> + +<p class="dir">[<i>Laughing and clapping his friend on the shoulder</i>]</p> + +<p class="prose">But you’re not in a raking hurry about it; eh, +Philemon?</p> + +<p class="dir">[<i>Re-enter <span class="smcap">Thermia</span> round the Right corner. She +comes quickly toward the men.</i>]</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_125">[125]</span></p> + +<p class="prose">But here’s Thermia again, in a hurry about something +or other surely.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Thermia</span></p> + +<p class="prose">O Xenias! I’ve seen Graea again and have learnt +that Eurylochus has called all the men to a +meeting at the shore to-morrow morning early +about that business.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Philemon</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Ah, what business, Thermia?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Thermia</span></p> + +<p class="prose">You tell him, Xenias.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Xenias</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Philemon and I were just upon the same matter—about +the commander passing the word to +cast off.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Philemon</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Well, it seems the mate hasn’t invited <i>me</i> yet.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Xenias</span></p> + +<p class="prose">No, nor me; he thinks you and I would pull on +<span class="pagenum" id="Page_126">[126]</span>the wrong quarter, laddie. But I shall be on +hand just the same to see how the wind does +blow. Don’t you go, Philemon; you haven’t +the heart for it.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Thermia</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Ah, thou art sad, Philemon; I feel for thee.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Philemon</span></p> + +<p class="prose">O, let it come; let it come!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Thermia</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Yes, the day is bound to come, sooner or later. I +would I could belate it. But farewell now. +[<i>She goes out.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Philemon</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Xenias, I would not ask thee to hold back</div> + <div class="verse indent0">And thine own sentiments belie because</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Mine do enchain me so to Circe’s isle</div> + <div class="verse indent0">As in its soil the roots of yonder oak</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Are wove and knotted. No; it is for you all</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Timely and reasonable—nor for Ulysses least—</div> + <div class="verse indent0">To set your faces homeward. But to me</div> + <div class="verse indent0">That home so dimly beckons now, I know not</div> + <div class="verse indent0">If it be there or here!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_127">[127]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Xenias</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">[<i>Stepping closer to his friend</i>] ’Twas not thy wont</div> + <div class="verse indent0">To doubt, Philemon, with faint wavering heart,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">When we together oft by chilly Troy</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Crouch’d with our captain in an ambuscade</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Or sprang from the galley’s prow full-arm’d ashore</div> + <div class="verse indent0">At Tenedos or Chryse. Be thyself; be bold!</div> + <div class="verse indent0">The girl is not to the island rooted fast,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Even though, as they pretend, their mothers be</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Fig-trees and fountains. We go: take <i>her</i>! Herself,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">I’ll wager, nothing loth.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i>While the last words are exchanged between the two +men the figure of <span class="smcap">Graea</span> the swine-maiden, unobserved +by them, is seen passing furtively behind and +occasionally halting as if to listen.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Philemon</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent26">Ah, Xenias,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Thou knowest not Philinna. She is true</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Not to me only.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Xenias</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent16">I know. Untie them!</div> + <div class="verse indent0">If need be, cut the knot! Love glories</div> + <div class="verse indent0">In shifts and stratagems.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_128">[128]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Philemon</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent26">Ah, ’twere not easy!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Xenias</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Think; ponder! Swear it: <i>If with Ulysses’ crew</i></div> + <div class="verse indent0"><i>Philemon sail, Philinna shall sail too.</i></div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i><span class="smcap">Xenias</span> seizes the hand of <span class="smcap">Philemon</span> and they go +out together at the Left.</i>]</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_129">[129]</span></p> + +<h3>II</h3> + +<div class="scene"> + +<p>The Seashore, early in the forenoon of the next day. The +scene is the same as in the First Act, but the signs of a +temporary encampment have disappeared and the hull of +the vessel is encumbered with grass and weeds. The curtain +rising discovers both watches of the crew (excepting <span class="smcap">Glaucus</span> +and <span class="smcap">Philemon</span>) disposed in scattered groups; some of the +men sitting or reclining; others standing. All seem pre-occupied +and the faces of most wear an anxious look. The +demeanor of <span class="smcap">Eurylochus</span>, who stands in a conspicuous +position, is more confident and dignified than in former scenes.</p> + +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">First Sailor</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Well, I suppose the devil knows how long we have +got to wait before they show up.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Second Sailor</span></p> + +<p class="prose">We’re lucky if they ever show up at all. Ten to +one Glauc’ll come back without him.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">First Sailor</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Ay, ay! It’s a question whether even Glaucus can +get the commander’s ear—leastwise he’ll +have to get Madam Circe out of the way first.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Phorbas</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Mark me; we aren’t safe yet! There’s no knowing +<span class="pagenum" id="Page_130">[130]</span>what sort of beasts she might turn us all into +even now, just to keep him with her a year +longer!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Second Sailor</span></p> + +<p class="prose">I’ve a notion we’d have done better to send a man +of the commander’s own watch—some one +that never was a hog.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Xenias</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Bravo! where will you find such a one? Glauc’s +all right; it’s enough to have a man who +wasn’t <i>always</i> a hog.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">First Sailor</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Ha, ha! Theron, that’s one on you.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Theron</span></p> + +<p class="prose">To hell with it! hang the hogs!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Elpenor</span></p> + +<p class="prose">My father <i>sticks</i> his.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">First Sailor</span></p> + +<p class="prose">That’s the talk, Elpy; keep the culinary department +straight!</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_131">[131]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Second Sailor</span></p> + +<p class="prose">But what if he’s so bewitched he won’t come and +talk anyway?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Eurylochus</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent20">Peace, peace!</div> + <div class="verse indent0">’Tis scarce an hour since we despatch’d our comrade</div> + <div class="verse indent0">On no brief errand.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Be patient; have good hope! It hangs, I know,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">On the razor’s edge; yet leans the weightier cause</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Toward consummation. Witchery there is still;</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Else were there little need to prompt Ulysses</div> + <div class="verse indent0">To his plain duty. Drugs have their antidotes,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Which to employ are easy when once found:</div> + <div class="verse indent0">More subtle—ay, more deadly! than her potions</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Are these soft blandishments, cared she to play them</div> + <div class="verse indent0">To their full scope. But it has stood forth clear,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Though once I did mistrust the promised convoy:</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Not in malevolence the enchantress binds</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Ulysses’ will. And when good Glaucus comes,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Fearless and plain of speech and charged with all</div> + <div class="verse indent0">The prayerful hot commands we laid upon him;</div> + <div class="verse indent0">When he, unheard of Circe, bids his captain<span class="pagenum" id="Page_132">[132]</span></div> + <div class="verse indent0">Arise, for old Laertes’ sake; and, backward</div> + <div class="verse indent0">With stern reproachful finger pointing, names</div> + <div class="verse indent0">The faithful wife who waits, Penelope,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Icarius’ daughter:—then, perhaps, this cord</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Of crimson devilment will snap—remembrance,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Conscience awake.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Xenias</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent18">Eurylochus, was it not</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Here on this very shore a twelvemonth since,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Launching the half-mann’d pinnace, you would fly,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Your mates left in the lurch?</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Eurylochus</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent30">But for Ulysses</div> + <div class="verse indent0">(This you would add) the doors of their foul prison</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Had closed on them forever.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Xenias</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent28">But to-day</div> + <div class="verse indent0">They jest and laugh, though ’tis in Circe’s isle.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Theron</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Damn me, too, if we’re the only ones that have +<span class="pagenum" id="Page_133">[133]</span>learnt to mumble spoon-victuals and dance +with tree-toads in the moonlight!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Eurylochus</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Xenias, there is a fear to which all others</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Are as soft zephyrs to the tempest: it is</div> + <div class="verse indent0">When spirits uncanny mock the paltry arts</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Of mortal courage. But for my fear, no tidings,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">No warning, no alarm had reach’d you.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">First Sailor</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Hi, yi! [<i>He points upward to the Right</i>] They’re +coming! There’s old Glauc digging down +this way.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Second Sailor</span></p> + +<p class="prose">[<i>Spying through his hand</i>] Alone! by the living +gods!</p> + +<p class="dir">[<i>Groans are uttered by some of the men, with gestures +of disgust and disappointment.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Eurylochus</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent6">Hold; wait!</div> + <div class="verse indent0">He waves his staff; he smiles; he brings, be sure,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">No grievous answer!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_134">[134]</span></p> + +<p class="dir">[<i>Enter <span class="smcap">Glaucus</span> bare-headed, carrying a staff with +oak-leaves attached, which he waves to and fro.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Glaucus</span></p> + +<p class="prose">All’s well! all’s well, lads! It’s a go; the commander +has struck his colors. We’re off, sure!</p> + +<p class="dir">[<i>The men throng about <span class="smcap">Glaucus</span>, some hurrahing +and throwing up their caps.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Several Voices</span></p> + +<p class="prose">But where is he? What’d he say? When’s he +coming?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Glaucus</span></p> + +<p class="prose">O, belay there! Everything takes time. He had to +go and talk with madam first, of course—and +not take French leave like an orang-outang. +He’ll be here in a jiffy.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Phorbas</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Yes; but what’ll she make him say when he does +come? I tell you we’re not well out of this +kettle of fish till we’ve cut loose into high +water!</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_135">[135]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Glaucus</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Avast! He’ll say what comes into his head. The +lady’s got a head on her too: she’s not the +kind of a craft to capsize at the first catspaw +of wind, don’t you believe it!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">First Sailor</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Put on a life-preserver, Phorb! Shin up the mast!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Elpenor</span></p> + +<p class="prose">The mast isn’t shinned up itself yet.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Eurylochus</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Glaucus, we owe thee thanks.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Glaucus</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Not a bit of it! I doubt if we’d have dared to +tackle him for another year if you hadn’t +put us up to it, old man. But you may set me +to walk the plank if he doesn’t talk fair now.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Xenias</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Hold on, lads! Seats again! there he comes! Stilly, +stilly!</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_136">[136]</span></p> + +<p class="dir">[<i>Enter <span class="smcap">Ulysses</span> at the Right, wearing sword and +helmet. His aspect is gracious as he comes to a stand +near the men, who sit in silence. Before speaking he +casts a contemplative glance seaward, then turns +toward the vessel.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Ulysses</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent8">Our good ship! Ah yes; the seams</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Gape in her sun-parch’d sides, and rank weeds twine</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Their prickly meshes round her shriveling keel.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Yes, yes, my men; full long we have sat still,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Basking in languorous fancy, rapt, unheeding</div> + <div class="verse indent0">This summons to the wave. Nor tarried others</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Behind, to follow and seize us: as when those</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Who clomb the banks of Lotus-land and straying</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Ate of the flowery food, their souls</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Steep’d in forgetfulness, we seized and bound,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Stifled their cries and dragg’d them to the shore.—</div> + <div class="verse indent0">To-day they are no more: so many</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Death’s winged minions snatch’d and in wild sport</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Flung them to feed the sea-god’s ravenous brood;</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Or, on strange shores their white bones strewing, sign’d</div> + <div class="verse indent0">The landmarks of our course.—What wonder, then!<span class="pagenum" id="Page_137">[137]</span></div> + <div class="verse indent0">What wonder, O brave comrades, if, so spent,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">So spared, beaching beside enchanted bowers</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Our single bark, lull’d under lustrous skies,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Encircled by fond arms, we linger’d fondly</div> + <div class="verse indent0">And long. But now, welcome the tug and strain</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Once more, as ye have will’d it: the bent oar,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">The creaking rowlock, Zephyrus’ shrill pipe,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">The thundrous pounding surge! Nor now, as then,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Shall we unpiloted and blindly plow</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Our swift sea-furrow; but wise Circe’s words</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Will be to us as beacons. We shall know</div> + <div class="verse indent0">What winds press homeward; on which hand to hold</div> + <div class="verse indent0">(When oft to night course our sick yearning prompts)</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Orion and the Bear.—If only</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Her solemn friendly warnings ye can heed,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Which in good time I shall expressly cite,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">All may be well.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Eurylochus</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Trust your men, sir, for that—leastwise if past +experience avail them anything in the way of +instruction for the future.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_138">[138]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Ulysses</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">So prove it! On the third morn we start. Meanwhile</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Let none stand idle! To-day remains in part;</div> + <div class="verse indent0">One other day to-morrow, whilst we urge</div> + <div class="verse indent0">The labors needful to our voyage. Draw water;</div> + <div class="verse indent0">The wine-jars and the barley-crates replenish;</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Refit the tackle.—Now let the old ship drink</div> + <div class="verse indent0">And plume herself again!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Several Voices</span></p> + +<p class="dir">[<i>As the men, who have already sprung from their +seats, gather round the vessel</i>]</p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent26">Hurrah! hurrah!</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Off with her! Rush her out!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Glaucus</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Look lively, lads! Knock away those props! Clear +out the ways there for’ard!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Several Voices</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Clear it is! Lively, lively!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Ulysses</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Eurylochus, I depute<span class="pagenum" id="Page_139">[139]</span></div> + <div class="verse indent0">To you the furtherance of these tasks. My presence</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Another foresight claims.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Eurylochus</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent26">Very well; very well, sir!—</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i>To the men, some of whom have climbed on deck</i>]</p> + +<p class="prose">Drop the bow-chains over there, boys! Catch on, +half a hundred of you! There she goes; steady, +steady!</p> + +<p class="dir">[<i>The curtain falls as <span class="smcap">Ulysses</span> goes out at the Right +and the ship, pulled and pushed by many hands, +begins to move toward the water.</i>]</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_140">[140]</span></p> + +<h3>III</h3> + +<div class="scene"> + +<p>The back of the palace, in the evening of the same day as +Scene II.—As the curtain rises <span class="smcap">Ulysses</span> and <span class="smcap">Circe</span> are discovered +in the foreground: the former occupying a low seat +by a tree; the latter reclining near him. Upon the veranda, +forming a group by themselves though not far removed from +the others, <span class="smcap">Philemon</span>, <span class="smcap">Xenias</span>, <span class="smcap">Thermia</span>, and <span class="smcap">Philinna</span> are +seated at a table, apparently playing at some game by the +light of a hanging lamp. <span class="smcap">Ulysses</span> and <span class="smcap">Circe</span> are revealed to +view by the rays of the moon, which near its full is rising +above the palace roof.</p> + +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Those children are making a brave effort to play +at their game, Ulysses. They pretend to-morrow +will be soon enough for parting salutations.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Thermia</span></p> + +<p class="prose">[<i>Who has overheard the remark</i>] O Circe! Philinna +cannot play at all; she throws amiss every +time.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Well, I doubt if her Philemon does much better.—There +are at least two aching hearts over +there, Ulysses.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_141">[141]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Ulysses</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Yet I have remarked Philemon seems not exactly +depressed by it. Indeed both he and Xenias +surprise me, how cheerily they await the event.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<p class="prose">They are men: new scenes, new labors summon +them; thoughts of their home. But my poor +nymphs must rest contented hereafter with +only me and the even sameness of our days.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Ulysses</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Even so ye lived blithe-hearted ere we came.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Hearts <i>more</i> than blithe we knew not ere ye came.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Ulysses</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Counts not the added bliss as gain meanwhile?</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">True gain or loss the final balance shows.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Ulysses</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Then, till it’s struck, hope for the winning scale.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_142">[142]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Such hopes help mortals cheat themselves, Ulysses,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Even of the present profit.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Ulysses</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent28">But I note,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Thy tacit precept, thine own example, leads us</div> + <div class="verse indent0">To drain the brimming cup and count as naught</div> + <div class="verse indent0">What pangs might follow.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent26">Ulysses, my example</div> + <div class="verse indent0">(For in these closing hours I will confess it)</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Hath my soul’s truest insight much belied.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Thou didst with moly baffle my magic art:</div> + <div class="verse indent0">The <i>woman’s</i> craft to baffle quite, no helper</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Could guide thee to a clue. Hate there was none—</div> + <div class="verse indent0">As well thou knowest: my bosom’s pride conceal’d</div> + <div class="verse indent0">No sinister, vindictive purpose. But</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Poor Circe, worsted, won her mastery back</div> + <div class="verse indent0">And turn’d to sportive vengeance her defeat,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">When with wise incantations wise Ulysses</div> + <div class="verse indent0">She sang to sleep.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_143">[143]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Ulysses</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent20">There needed those more weary,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">If not more wise, to wake him.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent30">But meanwhile</div> + <div class="verse indent0">My gentle partners, my sweet nymphs, I so</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Imperilling left—that same mischance whereof</div> + <div class="verse indent0">With a vague prescience more than once I warn’d them—</div> + <div class="verse indent0">In these new toils ensnared, when the spell broke,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">To droop as their own clipt flowers.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i>While the last few words are pronounced there has +been brisk talking, not distinctly overheard, on the +part of the other group.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Thermia</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">[<i>Loudly</i>] O, for shame, Philemon! What a thing to say!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Philinna</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">[<i>Passionately</i>] ’Tis <i>he</i>; ’tis he himself cares not!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<p class="dir">[<i>Turning toward the veranda, where <span class="smcap">Philemon</span> and +<span class="smcap">Xenias</span> have just risen to their feet</i>]</p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Ah, now! what coil is this? Philinna, speak!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_144">[144]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Thermia</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">O Circe! ’tis Philemon—and Xenias too; they say</div> + <div class="verse indent0">We are but women’s women: at the last moment</div> + <div class="verse indent0">(They tell us) we choose <i>you</i>!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent32">O foolish children!</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Must your vain quarreling blight such hours as these!—</div> + <div class="verse indent0">But whither? Philemon! Xenias! will you leave us?</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Philemon</span></p> + +<p class="prose">’Tis only, my lady, a certain business calls us +forth expressly at this time.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Ulysses</span></p> + +<p class="prose">So, my men? A strange time for business, is it not?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Xenias</span></p> + +<p class="prose">It were so, sir, but for a slight affair of our own, to +which we should properly give our attention +by high moonlight only.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<p class="prose">[<i>Laughing</i>] Holy Diana! Have they, too, turned to +magic?</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_145">[145]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Xenias</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Pray excuse us, all!</p> + +<p class="dir">[<i>The two young men go out by the Right corner. +<span class="smcap">Philinna</span>, bending over the table, covers her face +with her hands, while <span class="smcap">Thermia</span> rising attempts to +soothe her.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">O, mind not, dear Philinna, his hasty words!</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Though heartless sounding, they did rather prove</div> + <div class="verse indent0">The same concern that draws thine own tears now.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Lead her within; thou canst console her, Thermia:</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Thy stronger courage will avail.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i>The two nymphs go into the palace.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Ulysses</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Circe, I like not this foolery of the high moonlight. +Though it be a trifle ludicrous, the lads seemed +right serious about it nevertheless. ’Tis unlike +Philemon. I like it not.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">O put the thought aside, Ulysses!</div> + <div class="verse indent0">It is some youthful prank, or a mere jest</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Fresh-coin’d with sober mouth. Nor falls amiss<span class="pagenum" id="Page_146">[146]</span></div> + <div class="verse indent0">Thus on the girl’s untried, too tender spirit</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Some jar and crossing ere the final shock,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">So to forestall and break it.</div> + <div class="verse indent30">And this moon!</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Well she deserves, Ulysses, in thy sight.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Have we not sought ourselves her soothing spell?</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Masking a farewell colloquy in smiles,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">As yonder silver’d wave-tips feign deliverance</div> + <div class="verse indent0">From the encircling gloom of envious night.</div> + <div class="verse indent6">Ah! if thou didst but know,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Son of Laertes, half the struggles that wait thee</div> + <div class="verse indent0">By Neptune’s billowy realm and, rescued thence,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">In deadly strife at thy rude island-home,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Then wouldst thou feel, perchance, less haste to leave</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Circe, the frail enchantress.—Ay, not all</div> + <div class="verse indent0">The signs to guide and perils that impend</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Canst thou learn now. Some, long in mystery wrapt</div> + <div class="verse indent0">(Nor wouldst thou choose to speed them), time will teach;</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Others, from ghostly lips compell’d, when soon,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">By Ocean’s stream thy lone bark moor’d, thou standest</div> + <div class="verse indent0">At the dark doors of Hades to evoke</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Theban Tiresias’ shade, the seer shall utter.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_147">[147]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Ulysses</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent14">Dread Circe!</div> + <div class="verse indent0">O strange, unpitying prophetess, no mortal</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Reaches by sail or oar that awful strand.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Thou shalt be one, Ulysses, who, twice dying,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Twice lives to rue his birth.—But hearken;</div> + <div class="verse indent0">And on the mindful tablets of thy soul</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Grave these my warnings. Back from the sunless shore</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Of pale Persephone the refluent tide</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Will bear thy bark unurged: till, facing</div> + <div class="verse indent0">The ruddy sources of recover’d day,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Fresh-waken’d breath of quickening winds she feels</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Smite on her listless sail. So hold her prow,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Toward Eos striving surely, from my isle</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Farther and farther speeding.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Ulysses</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent30">But how soon?</div> + <div class="verse indent0">How soon, O Circe, may our glad eyes behold</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Some signal of known lands?</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_148">[148]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent28">So much not yet</div> + <div class="verse indent0">May be unveil’d; nor yet, what remnant lingers</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Of crew or vessel until that hour.—But hear,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">How (lest their doom be hasten’d) on thy helmsman,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">When ’twixt unlovely neighbors he must steer,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">The crisis hangs. On this side Scylla lurks,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Snarling in her cliff-cavern; on that, Charybdis</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Retches, with swirling gorge. Thrice happy he</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Who, nor to the right inclining nor the left,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Cleaves straight the midway mark with even keel.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Ulysses</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">But why not of the engulfing pest steer wide</div> + <div class="verse indent0">And with arm’d hand fend off the other’s onset?</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Ah!</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Thus do presumptuous mortals vaunt their cunning,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Or vain force, where alone swift vision wins.—</div> + <div class="verse indent0">If, then, alternate ruin ye elude,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">In some part scatheless, sweep with thankful hearts<span class="pagenum" id="Page_149">[149]</span></div> + <div class="verse indent0">The gleaming waters’ wide unbroken waste.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Then soon, Ulysses, as to my lay thou only</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Mightst listen and be saved, even so alone</div> + <div class="verse indent0">May’st thou, safe sailing, hear the Sirens’ song.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Ulysses</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Breathe any so sweet a strain as that, O Circe,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Which binds the caller at the moaning porch?</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Not binds, but draws! No sense-benumbing spell</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Boast the sea-maidens, nor themselves are fair.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Their theme, what men call <i>glory</i>; and the strain,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Bell-like, o’er the hush’d seas far pealing, calls</div> + <div class="verse indent0">With a resistless summons to their shore.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">It, with white skulls and rotting wreckage lined.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Thou shalt speed by, yet hear. Lash’d to the mast</div> + <div class="verse indent0">By thy men’s hands—themselves with wax-stopt ears—</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Bid them, when thou with frantic dumb entreaty</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Wouldst sign their stroke toward that melodious lure,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Pull stronger and swerve not, with firmer bonds</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Lashing thee still, while yet one echo</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Of siren-voices lingers.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_150">[150]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Ulysses</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent26">Circe, full long</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Thy tale of helps and hazards, though not few</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Still on their fixt oracular moment wait.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Be these enough, while courage step by step,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Conning each several danger, learn to face it.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">’Tis well.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i>Thus far <span class="smcap">Circe</span> has been reclining, with occasional +changes of attitude due to the earnestness of her discourse. +She now rises to a sitting posture.</i>]</p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">[<i>Laughing</i>] But forget not, most prudent captain,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">The risks thy moonstruck followers would invite</div> + <div class="verse indent0">In these my precincts!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i>She gives her hand to <span class="smcap">Ulysses</span>, who assists her to +rise.</i>]</p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent22">It were worth while to note</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Their traces. Come; they went this way.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i>She leads out at the Right, <span class="smcap">Ulysses</span> following with +downward thoughtful look.</i>]</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_151">[151]</span></p> + +<h3>IV</h3> + +<div class="scene"> + +<p>The grove upon sloping ground, at noon of the day following +the previous scene.—Enter from the Left downward <span class="smcap">Myrto</span> +leading <i>Mikkos</i>. With a glance toward the path on the Right +she seats herself under the tree by which <span class="smcap">Mercury</span> appeared +to <span class="smcap">Ulysses</span>, while the ape, whose chain <span class="smcap">Myrto</span> continues to +hold, swings himself to a low branch above her.</p> + +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Myrto</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Well, Mikkos, they are not here yet.—But Graea +never loiters and they will soon come. Now I +charge thee once again; and be thou, as a +reflecting animal, less slow to curb thy native +animosities, Mikkos! Look not upon Eurylochus +as thine enemy, receiving him with +angry and unseemly gestures. Eurylochus is +our friend to-day; and his co-operation in +the present emergency is invaluable.—Hear’st +thou, Mikkos? [<i>The ape grins and wags his +head.</i>] Very well; now conduct thyself like a +rational being! I hear them coming.</p> + +<p class="dir">[<i>Enter from the Right upward <span class="smcap">Eurylochus</span>, followed +closely by <span class="smcap">Graea</span>. The former, after a suspicious +glance at</i> Mikkos, <i>who shows his teeth and tries to +shake his chain, turns inquiringly toward <span class="smcap">Myrto</span> +who remains seated while the others stand.</i>]</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_152">[152]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Eurylochus</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Graea has by her signs made known to me, Myrto, +that you would have me attend you here at +this time; and I have inferred from the +earnestness of her manner that the message +is of importance.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Myrto</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Important indeed it is, Eurylochus: I need your +assistance; and not for myself alone—perchance +even somewhat for thine own weal; +but especially on behalf of the lady Circe and +all of us her poor companions—whom to be +sure thou lovest not.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Eurylochus</span></p> + +<p class="prose">One may love not, Myrto, and yet be nowise lacking +in good-will. You would not have called +in an unfriendly hand to aid you.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Myrto</span></p> + +<p class="prose">In the present matter at any rate thou wilt be sure +to side with us.—Wouldst thou choose to take +one of us home with thee in the ship, Eurylochus?</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_153">[153]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Eurylochus</span></p> + +<p class="prose">How? What? Forbid it, mighty Apollo! Is your +mind wandering, Myrto?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Myrto</span></p> + +<p class="prose">It is not I, but a pair of your pretty comrades whose +wits are wandering; for they would carry +away Philinna, unbeknown to Ulysses and +the rest of you, hiding her in the vessel.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Eurylochus</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Ah! we know of Philemon’s madness—and the +girl consents to this?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Myrto</span></p> + +<p class="prose">No indeed! they will put her to sleep with Circe’s +drug—</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Eurylochus</span></p> + +<p class="prose">[<i>Interrupting</i>] O Heracles!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Myrto</span></p> + +<p class="prose">And so bring her aboard the ship to-night, while +you are all at the palace partaking of the +farewell feast.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_154">[154]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Eurylochus</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Then if you have discovered this plot, why not +warn her straightway and cut it short?</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Myrto</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Not so, Eurylochus!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i><span class="smcap">Myrto</span> rises and addresses herself earnestly to him.</i>]</p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Not till the latest moment must Philinna</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Perceive the strange and treacherous design</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Of him she loves, who, if he loved her less,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Would spurn the trick his clever mate has taught him.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Now hear me; and observe</div> + <div class="verse indent0">How thou shalt aid us, with least harm to foil</div> + <div class="verse indent0">This harmful scheme. Nothing the herb itself</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Of baneful sort to mind or body works:</div> + <div class="verse indent0">But whoso of its fragrance breathes in slumber,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">For six-and-thirty hours wakes not again,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Nor feels, nor can be roused. They hold its leaves</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Gather’d beneath pale moonbeams, when the plant</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Best cools its juices and conserves its force.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">These they will bruise and spread</div> + <div class="verse indent0">About the pillow of Philinna’s couch,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Where she each day—now at this very hour—Seeks<span class="pagenum" id="Page_155">[155]</span></div> + <div class="verse indent0">her brief noontide sleep: by the moss’d bank</div> + <div class="verse indent0">So near the waterfall its gauzy spray</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Like an ethereal veil enshrouds the bower</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Where our companion rests; and muffled tones,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Voiced by perpetual whirling waters, soothe</div> + <div class="verse indent0">The slumberer’s ear. Of vines her bed is join’d:</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Gnarl’d stems which from the vineyard pruning once</div> + <div class="verse indent0">We fashion’d to a woodland couch, to sit</div> + <div class="verse indent0">And watch the headlong stream. This lifting</div> + <div class="verse indent0">(So Graea heard them whisper) they will bear</div> + <div class="verse indent0">With its fond burden shoreward ere the dawn,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">While yet ye feast and revel. And they hope</div> + <div class="verse indent0">To hold her hidden (nor will she wake) until</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Too far at sea the flying ship hath sped</div> + <div class="verse indent0">For ruth or reparation.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Eurylochus</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent24">O great gods!</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Herself by good rights, waking then, should rue</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Her wanton witcheries.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Myrto</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent22">Peace, Eurylochus; peace!</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Perverse and all one-sided is thy sense:<span class="pagenum" id="Page_156">[156]</span></div> + <div class="verse indent0">On the other side thy mother bore thee blind.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Not yet hast thou been taught the part thou playest</div> + <div class="verse indent0">In the prevention.—At the feast this night,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Ere the two plotters to their work slip out,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">I at my wheel (whom thou wilt watch) shall give thee</div> + <div class="verse indent0">This sign—with finger prest to lip: whereat</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Thyself withdrawing noiselessly to join</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Graea who waits without, with her wilt hie</div> + <div class="verse indent0">To poor Philinna’s bower: and both shall bear</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Hillward by the back path the couch and sleeper</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Into the banquet-hall to Circe.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Eurylochus</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent32">And what revenge</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Will Circe wreak upon the thieves?</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Myrto</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent34">Circe is wise;</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Needs not our counsel.—And, Eurylochus, mark:</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Thy secrecy here will stand thee in good stead.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">A narrow pathway tread ye all, so long</div> + <div class="verse indent0">In this round isle ye linger! Go; and be mindful!—</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i><span class="smcap">Eurylochus</span> goes out at the Right downward.</i>]</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_157">[157]</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Now, Graea—for thy sharp ear no caution needs,—</div> + <div class="verse indent0">His part and thine are fixt. And further, Graea;</div> + <div class="verse indent0">When chilly night descends, visit her bower</div> + <div class="verse indent0">And lay soft fleeces o’er Philinna’s form,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Sheltering her deep dishonest sleep.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i><span class="smcap">Graea</span> by signs gives her assent</i>, Mikkos <i>jumps +down from the tree, and all go out by the Left upward.</i>]</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_158">[158]</span></p> + +<h3>V</h3> + +<div class="scene"> + +<p>The same as the first scene of the play. The Front of the +Palace in the afternoon. The porch and its steps are already +in the shade. The curtain rising discovers <span class="smcap">Thermia</span> seated +upon one of the lower steps thoughtfully regarding the +fountain, which plays faintly. Enter <span class="smcap">Myrto</span> upon the porch +from within.</p> + +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Myrto</span></p> + +<p class="prose">[<i>Taking her seat upon a step</i>] Yes, there is shade +here now; Circe will come soon.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Thermia</span></p> + +<p class="prose">I know not why I feel so anxious, Myrto,—wondering +what communication you can have to +make while Ulysses and his men are away at +the lading of their vessel.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Myrto</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Now pray, Thermia, if what I shall say to Circe +startle you in some degree, restrain yourself +and show not perturbation. Circe, as you +well know, likes not hasty suggestion in what +concerns her deeply.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Thermia</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">’Tis true; I will be prudent. O, what can it be?</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_159">[159]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Myrto</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Wait; here she comes now.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i><span class="smcap">Circe</span> entering descends the stairs to a seat just +within the lengthening shadow by the fountain. She +wears her canary-colored tunic, but not the black robe.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">[<i>Turning toward the stairs</i>] Myrto! Thermia! Where is Philinna?</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Myrto</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">She sleeps, my lady.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Sleeps still? ’Tis past midday more than two hours!</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Philinna is wont to sleep soundly, but not long.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Myrto</span></p> + +<p class="prose">She will sleep long this time, Circe: Philinna will +not wake to-day.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<p class="prose">[<i>Starting to her feet</i>] What! Not wake to-day? Dost +thou trifle with me, girl?</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_160">[160]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Myrto</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Indeed I do not trifle with you. But fear not, dear +lady; there has been mischief, but harm will +not come to Philinna.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Mischief—mischief? Methinks I divine somewhat. +But speak; explain thyself forthwith!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Myrto</span></p> + +<p class="prose">They have given her the sleeping-plant which last +night they gathered under the moon.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Thermia</span></p> + +<p class="prose">[<i>To herself</i>] Ah, I see my precious Xenias’ finger +here; the traitor!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">O! O! Audacious, shameless souls!</div> + <div class="verse indent0">With my own drugs would they outwit me? O!</div> + <div class="verse indent0">I see! I see! Thus they will <i>steal</i> Philinna.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">But holy Diana! [<i>Laughing scornfully</i>] So sly, and yet so simple!</div> + <div class="verse indent0">They were twice foil’d, ere such a plot could prosper.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_161">[161]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Myrto</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Truly there needs small skill to circumvent them:</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Such I have summon’d.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent22">But the herb?</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Myrto</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent34">I show’d them.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">What? Myrto, Myrto!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Myrto</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent20">Stay; hear me, Circe.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Their plan I knew beforehand; and ’twas better</div> + <div class="verse indent0"><i>She</i> knew it not; should rather sleep; nor wake</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Till the whole farce were play’d—seest thou, my lady?</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">O clever Myrto! Not in vain thou sittest</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Demurely by thy wheel, as if its hum</div> + <div class="verse indent0">And spinster’s sordid finger-work were all</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Thy wits could compass!—thou, the nixie-born;</div> + <div class="verse indent0">With newts and water-beetles nurtured!—But how</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Came it to light?</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_162">[162]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Myrto</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent18">They came to me,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">To find for them the herb. The tale they told,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">How, when the ship had sail’d, among themselves</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Some sport they would devise. But Graea already</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Had overheard their whisperings and advised me.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Thermia</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Graea is everywhere and hears all things!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Hush, Thermia!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Myrto</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Because she hath no tongue they do forget</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Her sharpen’d ears.—Safely Philinna sleeps;</div> + <div class="verse indent0">And to your side shall she be brought to-night</div> + <div class="verse indent0">During the banquet.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent20">Ah! ah!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Thermia</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">And will they dare, finding her not,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">To wait for such an issue?</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_163">[163]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent28">Whither pray</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Might they seek refuge?—Two alone are guilty;</div> + <div class="verse indent0">And two alone shall answer for the guilt;</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Nor shall the feast be marr’d. Go now;</div> + <div class="verse indent0">And urge its preparation.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i>The two nymphs go into the palace.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Poor purblind men!</div> + <div class="verse indent0">O, how short of the mark their vision falls!</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Phantoms, bred of precipitate desire,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Aiming to grasp, but comprehending not</div> + <div class="verse indent0">The check and natural limit.—So the same</div> + <div class="verse indent0">At whose achievement we should rave, in failure</div> + <div class="verse indent0">We pity and forgive. Ay; to know more</div> + <div class="verse indent0">And to see farther than for themselves they see</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Doth make forbearance easy. How would they change</div> + <div class="verse indent0">For sweet Philinna’s rainbow-guarded sleep</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Their own long slumber in the fishy deep!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i>She ascends the steps and goes into the palace.</i>]</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_164">[164]</span></p> + +<h3>VI</h3> + +<div class="scene"> + +<p>The banquet-hall late at night. The feasting is near its end +and the wine has begun to be poured at the farewell entertainment +given by <span class="smcap">Circe</span> to her guests in the last hours +before they set sail. The Enchantress sits at the head of her +table, wearing her black robe and coronal of pearls. <span class="smcap">Thermia</span> +and <span class="smcap">Myrto</span> are in their usual places; but <span class="smcap">Philinna</span> is absent +and the throne at <span class="smcap">Circe’s</span> left has been removed. <span class="smcap">Ulysses</span> +sits at the head of the table by the dais. His demeanor is +serious; but the men though orderly are in high spirits as +they join in the chorus, with the exception of <span class="smcap">Philemon</span> and +<span class="smcap">Xenias</span>, who seem pre-occupied, seated together near the +exit behind <span class="smcap">Ulysses</span>. <span class="smcap">Eurylochus</span> is so placed as to face +<span class="smcap">Myrto</span> at her wheel. The first chorus following is sung before +the rise of the curtain.</p> + +</div> + +<p class="dir">(<i>Chorus of men’s voices behind the scenes</i>)</p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Never fear for your ship if you handle her right;</div> + <div class="verse indent0">She will scamper all day and eats nothing at night.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Stick her nose in the sand, she is safe in the stall;</div> + <div class="verse indent0">She’s a carriage and horses and stable and all.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="center">[<i>Curtain rises</i>]</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_165">[165]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Glaucus</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">[<i>Sings</i>] We sampled his cheeses and bunk’d in his den,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">But when he came home he ate six of our men.—</div> + <div class="verse indent0">“People don’t come a-foot when they come to see me:</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Now where did you leave the old frigate?” cried he.</div> + </div> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="center">(<i>Chorus</i>)</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Glaucus</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">It was a big pickle, we forged a big lie:</div> + <div class="verse indent0">“A thunderbolt struck her, Sir Cyclops,” said I;</div> + <div class="verse indent0">“Tore a hole in her timbers as wide as a door;</div> + <div class="verse indent0">She sank to the bottom and we swam ashore.”</div> + </div> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="center">(<i>Chorus</i>)</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Glaucus</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">So we punch’d out his eye with a stake while he snored,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Then broke for the landing and scrambled aboard.—</div> + <div class="verse indent0">His rock was a load for a twenty-mule team:</div> + <div class="verse indent0">“Heave hard there”! I shouted; “heave hard, Polypheme!”</div> + </div> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="center">(<i>Chorus</i>)</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_166">[166]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Glaucus</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">First time he shot high; and the swashing great wave</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Sent her back on a dance to the mouth of his cave.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">His second fell short: ’twas a booster behind</div> + <div class="verse indent0">And scooted her for’ard, quite well to our mind.</div> + </div> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="center">(<i>Chorus</i>)</div> + </div> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Never fear for your ship if you handle her right;</div> + <div class="verse indent0">She will scamper all day and eats nothing at night.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Stick her nose in the sand, she is safe in the stall;</div> + <div class="verse indent0">She’s a carriage and horses and stable and all.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Our friend Glaucus would usurp the role of his +captain, apparently, when he celebrates that +famous scene, Ulysses.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Ulysses</span></p> + +<p class="prose">And right welcome is he to any glory he may +borrow therefrom. Verily there was little +enough for me to boast of in the adventure.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_167">[167]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Glaucus</span></p> + +<p class="prose">It’s true the commander got us into the scrape, +madam, if he will allow me; but there would +need a longer song than any we have sung yet +to tell the whole story, how cleverly he got us +out of it.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Theron</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Damme! a great song! Not a word about the +tipple that did it all!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Elpenor</span></p> + +<p class="prose">And the sheep-ride too.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">A Voice</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Ay, ay!—’twas the tipple that did for him. Let +the old sinner play blind-man’s buff with his +bell-wether now!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Ulysses</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Enough!</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Now the cry homeward and the forward glance</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Shall banish retrospect. These claim our care.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Fair winds suffice not;</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Nor the good hopes by gracious friends inspired,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Where prudent counsel fails.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_168">[168]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent28">Most timely said!</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Experience ends not with each wondrous hap.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Ye know not yet, good men, your several fates</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Cradled beyond my island’s guardian pale.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Obedience and true caution shall avail you</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Not less because your course be pointed clear.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">These save while they endure.—</div> + <div class="verse indent0">But now our ancient welcome is exchanged</div> + <div class="verse indent0">For farewell greetings. Nor indeed comes song</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Amiss at such an hour.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i>She claps her hands twice and <span class="smcap">Thrattis</span> enters with +her lute, standing by the sideboard. While the attention +of all is thus drawn away <span class="smcap">Myrto</span> gives the sign to +<span class="smcap">Eurylochus</span>, who slips out unobserved.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Our guests have just sung a gay song in honor of +their ship, Thrattis. Perchance thou canst +match it with one from thine own store.</p> + +<p class="dir">[<i><span class="smcap">Thrattis</span> smiles faintly and begins a slow prelude +upon her instrument in a minor key.</i>]</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_169">[169]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Elpenor</span></p> + +<p class="prose">She knows how to make it cry.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Theron</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Hush, boy; mar not the music!</p> + +<p class="dir">[<i>The girl sings slowly with irregular pauses and +interludes at significant points in the recital. The +music itself is marked by chromatic changes, with +the last two stanzas taking on distinctly the character +of a funeral march. Before that part of the performance +is reached <span class="smcap">Philemon</span> and <span class="smcap">Xenias</span>, taking advantage +of the rapt attention of the company, steal out +unnoticed.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Thrattis</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Sea-wind o’er the ripples crept;</div> + <div class="verse indent0">His cool breath my temples swept;</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Sea-wind whisper’d, as I slept</div> + <div class="verse indent2">Near to the wave.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">From his caverns, hollow-toned,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Sea-wind mock’d my dream and moan’d.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">In my sleep I turn’d and groan’d</div> + <div class="verse indent2">As in the grave.<span class="pagenum" id="Page_170">[170]</span></div> + <div class="verse indent0">Through lank grasses, swaying slow,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Peering with green eyes a-glow</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Sea-wind stole and mutter’d low:</div> + <div class="verse indent2">“Wake not! sleep on,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">If my vision thou wouldst share:—</div> + <div class="verse indent0">The split mast; the lightning’s glare;</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Shrouds whirl’d wildly in mid-air!</div> + <div class="verse indent2">See! her helm gone,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">The vessel plunges. Lo! again</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Caught by the deadly hurricane,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Crackling bolt and hissing rain,</div> + <div class="verse indent2">The hull spins round;</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Breaks, sinks! One man breasts the tide;</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Clutches spar and climbs astride;</div> + <div class="verse indent0">A sea-courser seems to ride.—</div> + <div class="verse indent2">Vague depths profound</div> + <div class="verse indent0">With white feet the others tread;</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Seek on ocean’s floor their bed;</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Or, to rude shores blindly led,</div> + <div class="verse indent2">Full nigh they draw;</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Ram-like, butt the flinty stones.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">The gray sea a dirge intones,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Whilst the fat casing of their bones</div> + <div class="verse indent2">Dumb fishes gnaw.”</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_171">[171]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Ulysses</span></p> + +<p class="dir">[<i>After a pause, when the chords struck in conclusion +of the song have ceased to sound</i>]</p> + +<p class="prose">The maid hath not sailed the south seas in vain, +upon my soul, Circe!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Glaucus</span></p> + +<p class="prose">By the twin gods, ye would think she came straight +from Davy Jones’ locker, let out alive!</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">’Tis a brief step from life to death: why then</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Shall not the venturous errant fancy feign it</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Thrice taken and retraced? From death to life</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Were as from sleep to waking; nor, if dreams</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Might linger on the skirts of such a change,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Should they unheeded pass.—</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<div class="scene"> + +<p>The words of <span class="smcap">Circe</span> are interrupted by the entrance at the +Right rear doorway of <span class="smcap">Eurylochus</span> and <span class="smcap">Graea</span> bearing the +rustic couch upon which the form of <span class="smcap">Philinna</span> is extended +as upon a bier. As they enter, <span class="smcap">Graea</span>, who sustains the rear +end at the head of the sleeper, swings to her right backward +and the two bearers set the couch and its burden down by +<span class="smcap">Circe’s</span> side in full view of the company. <span class="smcap">Eurylochus</span> +quickly resumes his seat among the men, while the swine-maiden, +<span class="pagenum" id="Page_172">[172]</span>wearing her long whip coiled as a girdle round her +waist, retires to a position near the lute-girl, where the two +remain standing side by side. <i>Mikkos</i>, who had sprung into +the room close behind the bearers, is seized by <span class="smcap">Myrto</span> and +tied fast with shortened chain to the spokes of her wheel. +The form and features of <span class="smcap">Philinna</span> are motionless as in +death. She is clothed in her gauzy dress of noonday. The +banqueters in profound silence gaze with horror at the +apparition. <span class="smcap">Circe</span>, laying hand upon her wand, faces her +guests steadily with a trace of irony in her look, while a few +notes of solemn music fall from the lute of <span class="smcap">Thrattis</span>.</p> + +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Ulysses</span></p> + +<p class="dir">[<i>Half rising from his chair with gesture of inquiry +and deprecation</i>]</p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">What!—Circe? Thy Philinna?—is this death?</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Forbid it, ye kind gods!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Philinna?—or Philinna’s shade?</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Ask thine own followers, great commander; ask</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Pale Hecate’s twin votaries!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Ulysses</span></p> + +<p class="dir">[<i>Who has risen to his feet and scanning the company +<span class="pagenum" id="Page_173">[173]</span>perceives for the first time that not all his men are +present</i>]</p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Ha! what? Philemon? Xenias?—where?</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Eurylochus</span></p> + +<p class="prose">[<i>Saluting</i>] They encountered us, sir, as we ascended +hither bearing the sleeping maid. They were +on their way to seize her, but when they saw +themselves cheated of their prey they cried +out and fled incontinently to the woods.</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Ulysses</span></p> + +<p class="prose">Great Zeus! no flight shall save them! Up, +Eurylochus!</p> + +<p class="dir">[<i>With a stern gesture of command</i>]</p> + +<p class="prose">Take Glaucus and three others of your watch; go +forth; seek out, arrest the caitiffs! Put them +in irons and wait for us on board!</p> + +<p class="dir">[<i><span class="smcap">Eurylochus</span> and <span class="smcap">Glaucus</span> stand up, several other +men spring to their feet as volunteers</i>. Mikkos <i>exhibits +excitement, and <span class="smcap">Graea</span> slowly uncoils the whip from +her waist. <span class="smcap">Thermia</span> turns pale and cannot conceal +her agitation.</i>]</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_174">[174]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Circe</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">[<i>Lifting her wand gently</i>] Hold, Ulysses! Hold!</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Refrain; bend not thy thoughts to chains</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Or cruel punishment. Are they not even now</div> + <div class="verse indent0">By failure and humiliation scourged?</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Ulysses</span></p> + +<p class="dir">[<i>To whom <span class="smcap">Eurylochus</span> and <span class="smcap">Glaucus</span> are looking +expectantly</i>]</p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Never! Never!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<div class="scene"> + +<p>The door behind the dais opens, a golden light fills the passage-way +thus revealed, and <span class="smcap">Mercury</span>, brilliantly arrayed as +in the second scene of the play, stands forth upon the platform. +His step gives no sound; and, as he extends his hands +(one holding the winged wand) gently forward over the +company, all the men feel the soothing influence without +turning their heads to observe its source; while <span class="smcap">Ulysses</span>, +and the others who stand, sink quietly to their seats in +motionless attitude. <span class="smcap">Ulysses</span> slightly bows his head. The +inmates of the palace are not affected like the guests; they +maintain their former demeanor; but <span class="smcap">Circe</span> lowers her +hand with the wand to the table before her.</p> + +</div> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_175">[175]</span></p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mercury</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent14">By the Father sent</div> + <div class="verse indent0">I come this time, to loose the tangled web</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Of crossing motive, Circe, in thy bowers.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">He in the scales of fate the fortunes weigh’d</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Of these thy mortal visitors all, thine own,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Of thy beloved nymphs; and bade me speed,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Taking my wand, wherewith for woe or weal</div> + <div class="verse indent0">I seal men’s eyes and, when I will, unseal.</div> + </div> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">The offending youths—already are they</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Themselves in closer toils of slumber caught</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Than the charm’d herb upon the maiden brought.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">At my behest their living phantoms glide;</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Upward or downward their blind steps I guide.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i>Without turning, the god raises his wand gently +with backward movement of the hands, and in the wide +opening behind him the forms of <span class="smcap">Philemon</span> and +<span class="smcap">Xenias</span> appear, standing side by side. Their eyes +are closed; their features pallid in the weird light; +their look is of complete unconsciousness. <span class="smcap">Thrattis</span> +strikes major chords.</i>]</p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Their fault the Father pardons; and decrees</div> + <div class="verse indent0">They shall be toss’d no more on billowy seas,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_176">[176]</span></div> + <div class="verse indent0">But to their lives’ end tread the enchanted soil</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Which of its bloom they plotted to despoil.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i><span class="smcap">Mercury</span> sways the wand slowly from behind forward, +and the two sleepers (<span class="smcap">Philemon</span> first, <span class="smcap">Xenias</span> +close behind him) guided by the spell pass across the +dais, gliding down behind the banqueters until they +reach a position between <span class="smcap">Thermia</span> and <span class="smcap">Philinna’s</span> +couch. Their footsteps give no sound; their movement +is mechanical; in the place indicated they stand stiff +and motionless with closed eyes.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Mercury</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">Arise, Ulysses!</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i><span class="smcap">Ulysses</span> stands up; and simultaneously his men all +rise silently to their feet.</i>]</p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent16">Now thy waiting bark</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Swims in the darkling haven; but full soon</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Eos her saffron portals will unbar</div> + <div class="verse indent0">And wake the convoy breezes. Tarry not!—</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Thy crew the Father’s stern assignments claim;</div> + <div class="verse indent0">I sign them to <i>march</i>, <span class="smcap">Forward</span>! in his name.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i>The funeral march which closed the song of <span class="smcap">Thrattis</span> +is played softly, and the men pass out behind +<span class="smcap">Mercury</span> in single file, moving noiselessly and with +<span class="pagenum" id="Page_177">[177]</span>the utmost precision, as if under the hypnotizing influence +of the wand waved above them. The company of +<span class="smcap">Eurylochus</span> marches first, headed by their leader +and <span class="smcap">Glaucus</span>, <span class="smcap">Theron</span> and <span class="smcap">Elpenor</span> bringing up +the rear. The other company, excepting <span class="smcap">Philemon</span> +and <span class="smcap">Xenias</span>, immediately follows. <span class="smcap">Ulysses</span>, who +has donned his helmet, begins to speak as the last +man passes and the music ceases.</i>]</p> + +<p class="char"><span class="smcap">Ulysses</span></p> + +<div class="poetry-container"> +<div class="poetry"> + <div class="stanza"> + <div class="verse indent0">To gloom of future fates beholden fast,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">The parting hour yet beckons toward the past.</div> + <div class="verse indent0">What blessings lay beneath rapt moments hidden</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Now to the pictured memory rise unbidden;</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Each, as with pointed stylus’ steely smart,</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Prick’d and deep graven on the shrinking heart.—</div> + <div class="verse indent0">Farewell! O sorceress benign, farewell!</div> + <div class="verse indent0">He knows not <i>life</i>, who knows not <span class="smcap">Circe’s</span> spell.</div> + </div> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dir">[<i><span class="smcap">Ulysses</span> turns and goes out. The music begins again +in the major key. <span class="smcap">Mercury</span>, poised upon one foot +in an attitude similar to that presented by a familiar +statue of the god, leans far forward with wand pointed +straight at the sleepers. <span class="smcap">Philinna</span> opens her eyes and +slowly rises to a sitting posture on her couch. <span class="smcap">Philemon</span> +<span class="pagenum" id="Page_178">[178]</span>and <span class="smcap">Xenias</span> open their eyes and draw long +breaths. <span class="smcap">Philinna</span>, turning first toward <span class="smcap">Circe</span>, with +one hand clasps the left hand of the Enchantress; then, +with the other, recognizing <span class="smcap">Philemon</span>, takes his right. +<span class="smcap">Thermia</span>, when <span class="smcap">Xenias</span> wakes, seizes his left hand +with her own, and with a joyous look lays her right +upon his shoulder. The two youths have themselves +joined hands. <span class="smcap">Myrto</span> seated, whom</i> Mikkos <i>strives +to reach, holds him firmly at arm’s length by the +collar. <span class="smcap">Graea</span>, standing beside <span class="smcap">Thrattis</span>, whip in +hand, glares fiercely at the exit.</i></p> + +<p class="dir"><i>The countenance of <span class="smcap">Circe</span> is deeply sad. Her wand +lies relinquished upon the table. She continues to +gaze, as if into vague distance, in the direction of her +departed guest.</i>]</p> + +<p class="titlepage">CURTAIN</p> + +<div style='text-align:center'>*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 78211 ***</div> +</body> +</html> diff --git a/78211-h/images/cover.jpg b/78211-h/images/cover.jpg Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..f108fe1 --- /dev/null +++ b/78211-h/images/cover.jpg diff --git a/78211-h/images/dropcap-a.jpg b/78211-h/images/dropcap-a.jpg Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..3833703 --- /dev/null +++ b/78211-h/images/dropcap-a.jpg diff --git a/78211-h/images/dropcap-h.jpg b/78211-h/images/dropcap-h.jpg Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..4dc0381 --- /dev/null +++ b/78211-h/images/dropcap-h.jpg diff --git a/78211-h/images/dropcap-t.jpg b/78211-h/images/dropcap-t.jpg Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..b4cbdfc --- /dev/null +++ b/78211-h/images/dropcap-t.jpg diff --git a/78211-h/images/footer.jpg b/78211-h/images/footer.jpg Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..8ecd749 --- /dev/null +++ b/78211-h/images/footer.jpg diff --git a/78211-h/images/frontispiece.jpg b/78211-h/images/frontispiece.jpg Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..faf0751 --- /dev/null +++ b/78211-h/images/frontispiece.jpg diff --git a/78211-h/images/halftitle.jpg b/78211-h/images/halftitle.jpg Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..4f23398 --- /dev/null +++ b/78211-h/images/halftitle.jpg diff --git a/78211-h/images/header-act-one.jpg b/78211-h/images/header-act-one.jpg Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..a9e14be --- /dev/null +++ b/78211-h/images/header-act-one.jpg diff --git a/78211-h/images/header-act-two.jpg b/78211-h/images/header-act-two.jpg Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..e60f9aa --- /dev/null +++ b/78211-h/images/header-act-two.jpg diff --git a/78211-h/images/header-circe.jpg b/78211-h/images/header-circe.jpg Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..8c576f5 --- /dev/null +++ b/78211-h/images/header-circe.jpg diff --git a/78211-h/images/header-the-first-act.jpg b/78211-h/images/header-the-first-act.jpg Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..43b5566 --- /dev/null +++ b/78211-h/images/header-the-first-act.jpg diff --git a/78211-h/images/header-the-second-act.jpg b/78211-h/images/header-the-second-act.jpg Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..0967e63 --- /dev/null +++ b/78211-h/images/header-the-second-act.jpg diff --git a/78211-h/images/header1.jpg b/78211-h/images/header1.jpg Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..3fb3d1c --- /dev/null +++ b/78211-h/images/header1.jpg diff --git a/78211-h/images/header2.jpg b/78211-h/images/header2.jpg Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..be82638 --- /dev/null +++ b/78211-h/images/header2.jpg diff --git a/78211-h/images/roycroft.jpg b/78211-h/images/roycroft.jpg Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..6fc6fd4 --- /dev/null +++ b/78211-h/images/roycroft.jpg diff --git a/LICENSE.txt b/LICENSE.txt new file mode 100644 index 0000000..6c72794 --- /dev/null +++ b/LICENSE.txt @@ -0,0 +1,11 @@ +This book, including all associated images, markup, improvements, +metadata, and any other content or labor, has been confirmed to be +in the PUBLIC DOMAIN IN THE UNITED STATES. + +Procedures for determining public domain status are described in +the "Copyright How-To" at https://www.gutenberg.org. + +No investigation has been made concerning possible copyrights in +jurisdictions other than the United States. 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