cate to the assembled commonalty the propositions which had been before discussed in private conference between themselves. Peisthetairus, however, sees his advantage and insists upon the previous conclusion of a formal treaty of peace; this is done, and the Chorus swear to it (relapsing for a moment into their real character) "as they hope to win the prize by unanimous vote." But if they should fail, they imprecate upon themselves the penalty of (gaining the prize notwithstanding, but) "gaining it only by a casting vote." Peace is proclaimed, the armament is dissolved by proclamation, and the Chorus recommence singing.
[To the Chorus.
Hoo.Here you, take these same arms, in the name of Heaven,435
And hang them quietly in the chimney corner;
[Turning to Peisthetairus.
And you communicate your scheme, exhibiting
Your proofs and calculations—the discourse
Which they were called to attend to.
Peis.No, not I!
By Jove; unless they agree to an armistice;440
Such as the little poor baboon, our neighbour,
The sword cutler, concluded with his wife;
That they shan't bite me, or take unfair advantage
In any way.
Chorus.We won't.
Peis.Well, swear it then!
Chorus.We swear; by our hope of gaining the first prize,445
With the general approval and consent,
Of the whole audience, and of all the judges—
And if we fail, may the reproach befall us,
Of gaining it, only by the casting vote.
