Dialogi Marini

Lucian of Samosata

The Works of Lucian of Samosata, complete, with exceptions specified in thepreface, Vol. 1. Fowler, H. W. and Fowlere, F.G., translators. Oxford at the Clarendon Press, 1905.

Proteus The polypus, having selected his rock, and attached himself by means of his suckers, assimilates himself to it, changing his colour to match that of the rock. By this means he

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hopes to escape the observation of fishermen: there is no contrast of colour to betray his presence; he looks just like stone.

Menelaus So I have heard. But yours is quite another matter, Proteus.

Proteus I don’t know what evidence would satisfy you, if you reject that of your own eyes.

Menelaus I have seen it done, but it is an extraordinary business; fire and water, one and the same person!

Francis George Fowler

Panope Galene, did you see what Eris did yesterday at the Thessalian banquet, because she had not had an invitation?

Galene No, I was not with you; Posidon had told me to keep the sea quiet for the occasion. What did Eris do, then, if she was not there?