HERMES But hold, the Argives have not pulled the least bit; they have done nothing but laugh at us for our pains while they were getting gain with both hands.(1)
f(1) Both Sparta and Athens had sought the alliance of the
Argives; they had kept themselves strictly neutral and had
received pay from both sides. But, the year after the
production of 'The Wasps,' they openly joined Athens, had
attacked Epidaurus and got cut to pieces by the Spartans.
TRYGAEUS Ah! my dear sir, the Laconians at all events pull with vigour.
CHORUS But look! only those among them who generally hold the plough-tail show any zeal,(1) while the armourers impede them in their efforts.
f(1) These are the Spartan prisoners from Sphacteria, who
were lying in goal at Athens. They were chained fast to
large beams of wood.
HERMES And the Megarians too are doing nothing, yet look how they are pulling and showing their teeth like famished curs; The poor wretches are dying of hunger!(1)
f(1) 'Twas want of force, not want of will. They had
suffered more than any other people from the war. (See 'The
Acharnians.')
TRYGAEUS This won't do, friends. Come! all together! Everyone to the work and with a good heart for the business.
HERMES Heave away, heave!
TRYGAEUS Harder!