Suddenly the god threw back his golden head and laughed. And with his laughter the cliffs echoed as with stricken lyres and heavenly flutings. He was laughing at Theria!
He spoke again:
“Thou poor child of a mortal wouldst compel good fortune for Hellas
Steal it—from gods unwilling! Good lack! But I love thy courage!
“But now behold, little one, wilt thou grant me to speak in Delphi?
“Ha, thou advisor of gods. Thou helper of gods in trouble,
Without thee Apollo shall succour. Without thee give aid to his people
I SHALL CARE FOR MY OWN!”
Again he laughed—a merry, loving mockery.