Zeus [with a touch of reserve].
I meant that the sun shows a tendency to return to its forgotten orbit. It is quite warm here out of the wind. [More genially.] But as to myself, I admit a great recovery in my spirits. I have given up fretting for Iris, who was certainly lost on our way here, and Pallas has been showing me a curious little jewel she brought with her, which has created in me a kind of wistful cheeriness.
I do not remember to have experienced anything of the kind before.
Phœbus.
I declare I believe that you will adapt yourself as well as the rest of us to this anomalous existence.
Zeus.
We shall see; and I shall have so much time now, that I may even—what I am sure ought to gratify you, Phœbus,—be able to give my attention to the fine arts. A fallen monarch can always defy adversity by forming a collection of curiosities.
Phœbus.
If you make the gem of which Pallas is so proud the nucleus of your cabinet, I feel convinced that it will give you lasting satisfaction. And we are so poor now that it can never be complete, and therefore
never become tiresome. But what was it that the oracle of Nemea amused and puzzled us by saying, "To form a collection is well, yet to take a walk is better"? I will attend your Majesty to your apartments, and then wander in these extensive woods.