Hearing from me the destined ordinance

Assigned me by the Gods?

370

This task of mine is one of ancient days;

Nor meet I here with scorn,

Though 'neath the earth I dwell,

And live there in the darkness thick and dense,

Where never sunbeam falls.

Enter Athena, appearing in her chariot, and then alights

Athena. I heard far off the cry of thine entreaty