Lysistrata   

you say, should we get peace any sooner?


LYSISTRATA


Of course we should, by the goddesses twain! We need only sit


indoors with painted cheeks, and meet our mates lightly clad in


transparent gowns of Amorgos silk, and perfectly depilated; they


will get their tools up and be wild to lie with us. That will be the


time to refuse, and they will hasten to make peace, I am convinced


of that!


LAMPITO


Yes, just as Menelaus, when he saw Helen's naked bosom, threw away


his sword, they say.


CLEONICE


But, oh dear, suppose our husbands go away and leave us.


LYSISTRATA


Then, as Pherecrates says, we must "flay a skinned dog," that's


all.


CLEONICE


Fiddlesticks! these proverbs are all idle talk.... But if our


husbands drag us by main force into the bedchamber?


LYSISTRATA


Hold on to the door posts.