Chorus.
Yet should she
By her own body’s fruitage have been slain?
Apollo.
Thus speaking, ye mispraise the sacred rites
Of matrimonial Hera[n23] and of Jove,
Unvalued make fair Aphrodite’s grace,
Whence dearest joys to mortal man descend.
The nuptial bed, to man and woman fated,[n24]
Hath obligation stronger than an oath,