" And as I
turned away I heard their laughter, but the words had set my
heart aflame and though it costs me my life, I'll follow the
adventure.
ANALYTIKOS [scandalized]. Haven't we heard enough of this?
MENELAUS [deeply]. No! I want to hear how the story ends. It may
amuse the King. [He makes a sign to ANALYTIKOS.]
PARIS. And on the ship at night I looked long at the stars and
dreamed of possessing Helen. [ANALYTIKOS makes an involuntary
movement toward the balcony but MENELAUS stops him.] Desire has
been my guiding Mercury; the Fates are with me, and here I am!
ANALYTIKOS. The wrath of the King will show you no mercy.
PARIS [nonchalantly]. I'm not afraid of the King. He's fat, and
-- a fool.
ANALYTIKOS. Shall I call the guards?
[MENELAUS stops him.]
MENELAUS [very significantly]. So you would give your life for a
glimpse of the Queen?
PARIS [swiftly]. Yes! My immortal soul, and if the fables tell
the truth, the sight will be worth the forfeit.
MENELAUS [suddenly jumping up]. It shall be as you wish!
PARIS [buoyantly]. Venus has smiled on me.
MENELAUS. In there beyond the library you will find a room with a
bath.
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