Aeacus.
Unnatural,
That's what I call it.
Dionysus.
Quite a pain to see.
Xanthias (now overpowered and disarmed).
Now, by Lord Zeus, if ever I've been here
Or stol'n from you the value of one hair,
You may take and hang me on the nearest tree! . . .
Now, listen: and I'll act quite fairly by you;
[Suddenly indicating Dionysus.
Take this poor boy, and put him to the question!
And if you find me guilty, hang me straight.
Aeacus.
What tortures do you allow?
Xanthias.
Use all you like.
Tie him in the ladder, hang him by the feet,
Whip off his skin with bristle-whips and rack him;
You might well try some vinegar up his nose,
And bricks upon his chest, and so on. Only
No scourges made of . . . leek or young shalott.
Aeacus.
A most frank offer, most frank.—If my treatment
Disables him, the value shall be paid.
Xanthias.
Don't mention it. Remove him and begin.
