45
Of course I hear the thunder; but as to whether it is Zeus who thunders, your knowledge would be more reliable if you had come from somewhere up there among the gods. For travellers from Crete tell us a different story: that a certain tomb is shown in that country, and beside it stands a pillar telling that Zeus will thunder no more, being long since dead.
45
I knew long ago that the man was going to say that. But, Zeus, why have you turned pale? Why do you tremble so that your teeth chatter? You must take heart and despise such manikins.
45
What do you say, Momos? Despise them? Do you not see how large the audience is, and how they are persuaded against us already, and how Damis is leading them away with their ears stopped?
45
But, Zeus, if you liked you could let down a rope and Drag not them alone, but earth, too, and the ocean.
46
Tell me, wretch, have at sea? you ever been Damis. Yes, often.
46
You were carried along then, were you not, either by the wind striking the main-sail and filling the staysail, or by the rowers, while some one person stood at the helm and brought the vessel through in safety?
46
Certainly.
46
Then the ship could not sail unless it was steered; but you imagine that this universe moves along without pilot or guide?
46
Well done, Timokles! that is a powerful comparison.
