PRAXAGORA. Nothing simpler. Is it not said, that the cleverest speakers are those who submit themselves oftenest to men? Well, thanks to the gods, we are that by nature.
SIXTH WOMAN. There's no doubt of that; but the worst of it is our inexperience.
PRAXAGORA. That's the very reason we are gathered here, in order to prepare the speech we must make in the Assembly. Hasten, therefore, all you who know aught of speaking, to fix on your beards.
SEVENTH WOMAN. Oh! you great fool! is there ever a one among us cannot use her tongue?
PRAXAGORA. Come, look sharp, on with your beard and become a man. As for me, I will do the same in case I should have a fancy for getting on to the platform. Here are the chaplets.
SECOND WOMAN. Oh! great gods! my dear Praxagora, do look here! Is it not laughable?
PRAXAGORA. How laughable?
SECOND WOMAN. Our beards look like broiled cuttle-fishes.
PRAXAGORA. The priest is bringing in—the cat.[656] Make ready, make ready! Silence, Ariphrades![657] Go and take your seat. Now, who wishes to speak?
SEVENTH WOMAN. I do.