Xanthias (aside).
Just like my luck.—Why wasn't I on board
At Arginusae? Then I'd let you have it.
Dionysus.
Dismount, you rascal.—Here's the door close by
Where I must turn in first—and I on foot! (Knocking.
Porter! Hi, porter! Hi!
Heracles (entering from the house).
Who's knocking there?
More like a mad bull butting at the door,
Whoever he is . . . (seeing Dionysus). God bless us, what's all this?
[He examines Dionysus minutely, then chokes
with silent emotion.
Dionysus (aside to Xanthias).
Boy!
Xanthias.
What, sir?
Dionysus.
Did you notice?
Xanthias.
Notice what?
Dionysus.
The man's afraid.
Xanthias.
Yes, sir; (aside) afraid you're cracked!
Heracles (struggling with laughter).
I wouldn't if I possibly could help it:
I'm trying to bite my lips, but all the same . . . (roars with laughter).
