XXXV THE WASH-WOMEN
Mitchell S. (Mitchell Starrett) Buck translation
WASH-women, say not that you have seen me! I confide in you; do not repeat it! Between my tunic and my breasts, I bring you something.
I am like a little frightened hen.... I know not whether I dare tell you.... My heart beats as though I would die.... It is a veil that I bring you.
A veil and the ribbons from my legs. You see: there is blood upon them. By Apollo, it was in spite of me! I defended myself well; but the man who loves is stronger than we.
Wash them well; spare neither the salt nor the chalk. I will place four oboli for you at the feet of Aphrodite; even a drachma of silver.