For my firm sense forsook me--it was not for wantonness.
Be witness the sacred light of Helios, be witness the rites of the maiden that wanders by night, daughter of Perses.

Not willingly did I haste from my home with men of an alien race; but a horrible fear wrought on me to bethink me of flight when I sinned; other device was there none.

Still my maiden's girdle remains, as in the halls of my father, unstained, untouched.

Pity me, lady, and turn thy lord to mercy; and may the immortals grant thee a perfect life, and joy, and children, and the glory of a city unravaged!" (ll.

1029-1030) Thus did she implore Arete, shedding tears, and thus each of the chieftains in turn: (ll.