I.

What chief is he, who moved along; What daring plunderer fleet and strong, Shall boast he ’scaped my vengeful hand? How overtake his rapid flight? To whom compare him, who by night, With dauntless step passed through our armed band And slumbering guards? doth he reside In Thessaly, near ocean’s boisterous tide In Locris, or those islands scattered o’er The waves? whence comes he to this fell debate? What power supreme doth he adore?

1st SEMICHOR. Was this Ulysses’ enterprise, or whose?

2nd SEMICHOR. If we may form our judgment from the past, Who but Ulysses——

1st SEMICHOR. Think’st thou that it was?

2nd SEMICHOR. Why not?

1st SEMICHOR. He is an enterprising foe.

2nd SEMICHOR. What bravery? whom do you applaud?

1st SEMICHOR. Ulysses.

2nd SEMICHOR. Praise not the treacherous weapon of a robber.

CHORUS.