THE CYCLOPS
(Odysseus appears on the right. He carries a sword.
A -wine-flask made of skin is suspended from his
neck; a cup is attached to the cord. He is followed
by crew-members carrying pitchers and jugs.)
Odysseus
Strangers, could you tell us where we might find
running water? We have nothing to drink.
Would some one of you like to sell some food
to hungry sailors? What? Do I see right?
We must have come to the city of Bacchus.
These are satyrs I see around the cave. 100
Let me greet the oldest among you first.
Silenus
Greeting, stranger. Who are you, and from where?
Odysseus
I am Odysseus of Ithaca, king of the Cephallenians.
Silenus
I've heard of you: a glib sharper, Sisyphus' bastard.
Odysseus
I am he. Keep your abuse to yourself. 105
Silenus
From what port did you set sail Hor Sicily?
Odysseus
We come from Troy and from the war there.
Silenus
What? Couldn't you chart your passage home?
Odysseus
We were driven here by wind and storm.
Silenus
Too bad. I had the same misfortune. no
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