For plain to discern to men of earth are the reproofs of the immortals.

And we will never check the Harpies when they come, for all our desire, until thou hast sworn that for this we shall not lose the favour of heaven." (ll.

254-255) Thus he spake; and towards him the aged sire opened his sightless eyes, and lifted them up and replied with these words: (ll.

256-261) "Be silent, store not up such thoughts in thy heart, my child.

Let the son of Leto be my witness, he who of his gracious will taught me the lore of prophecy, and be witness the ill-starred doom which possesses me and this dark cloud upon my eyes, and the gods of the underworld--and may their curse be upon me if I die perjured thus--no wrath from heaven will fall upon you two for your help to me." (ll.