Servant. Taking evidence as to whether my master was out of his mind or not. Unless he is proved to have been insane, his goods fall to the crown by law; and really there is nothing to prevent their so doing.
Prom. But had he no friend or relative to whom he could entrust his children instead of killing them?
Servant. Yes, he had; and especially one friend, to whom he has commended his dog.[2]
Momus was about to congratulate Prometheus on the good effects of civilisation, and the happiness that seemed to be inseparable from human life. He wished also to remind him that no animal except man voluntarily killed itself, or was impelled by feelings of despair to take the life of its own offspring. But Prometheus anticipated him, and paid the bet at once, without visiting the two remaining parts of the world.
[1] See Robertson's Hist. of America, Book VI.
[2] A fact.