AGAVE (very calmly and peacefully).
He was young in the wildwood: Without nets I caught him! Nay; look without fear on The Lion; I have ta'en him!
LEADER.
Where in the wildwood? Whence have ye brought him?
AGAVE.
Kithaeron. . . .
LEADER.
Kithaeron?
AGAVE.
The Mountain hath slain him!
LEADER.
Who first came nigh him?
AGAVE.
I, I, 'tis confessed! And they named me there by him Agave the Blessed!
LEADER.
Who was next in the band on him?
AGAVE.
The daughters. . .
LEADER.
The daughters?
AGAVE.
Of Cadmus laid hand on him. But the swift hand that slaughters Is mine; mine is the praise! Bless ye this day of days!
[The LEADER tries to speak, but is not able; AGAVE begins gently stroking the head.
AGAVE.
Gather ye now to the feast!