Athena.
I will not weary to entreat thee fair;
For ne'er with justice shalt thou urge the plaint,
That thou, the elder deity, by me
The younger, and these city-guarding men,
Wert, like an outcast, banished from the land.
But if Persuasion's power ye hold in awe,—
The charm and honeyed sweetness of my tongue,
Tarry thou must; but if thou wilt not tarry,
Not justly wouldst thou on this city hurl
Revenge, or wrath, or do my people wrong;
For thine it is to share with me this land, 850
In aye-enduring honour justly held.
Chorus.
Athena, queen, what seat dost offer me?
Athena.
One where no sorrow scathes. Receive it thou!
Chorus.
If I consent, what honour waiteth me?
Athena.
No house unblest by thee shall henceforth thrive.
Chorus.
This wilt thou do? endow me with such might?
Athena.
Ay, and will prosper him who worships thee.
