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THE WORLD'S PROGRESS.
Eu. Because you were a man: the same as us; And found yourself in debt; the same as us; And after that, you changed into a bird; And ever since have flown and wandered far Over the lands and seas, and haYe acquired All knowledge that a bird or man can learn. Therefore we come as suppliants, to beseech Your favor and advice to point us out Some comfortable country, close and snng, A country like a blanket or a rug, \\There we might fairly fold ourselves to rest. Hoo. Do you wish then for a greater State than Athens? Eu. Not greater; but more suitable for us. Peisthetairus, heretofore silent, exclaims : Peis. Ha! \Vhat a power is here! \Vhat opportunities! If I could only advise you. I see it all! The means for an infinite empire and command! Hoo. And what would you have us do? \Vhat's your adivce? Peis. Do? \Vhat would I have ye do? \Vhy, first of all Don't flutter and hurry about all open-mouthed, In that undignified way. Concentrate! Bring all your birds together. Build a city. Hoo. The birds! How could we build a city? Where? I'eis. Nonsense. You can't be serious. \Vhat a question! Look down. Hoo. I do. Look up now. Peis. So I do. Hoo. Peis. Now turn your neck around. Hoo. I should sprain it, though. Peis. Come, what d'ye see? Hoo. The clouds and sky; that's all. Peis. \Vell, that we call the pole, and the atmosphere; And would it not serve you birds for a metropole? Hoo. Pole? Is it called a pole? Yes, that's the name. Peif.