Lysistrata   

Yet, look you, when the women are summoned to meet for a matter of


the greatest importance, they lie in bed instead of coming.


CLEONICE


Oh! they will come, my dear; but it's not easy, you know, for


women to leave the house. One is busy pottering about her husband;


another is getting the servant up; a third is putting her child asleep


or washing the brat or feeding it.


LYSISTRATA


But I tell you, the business that calls them here is far and


away more urgent.


CLEONICE


And why do you summon us, dear Lysistrata? What is it all about?


LYSISTRATA


About a big thing.


CLEONICE (taking this in a different sense; with great interest)


And is it thick too?


LYSISTRATA


Yes, very thick.


CLEONICE


And we are not all on the spot! Imagine!


LYSISTRATA (wearily)