‘It’s set in Athens,’ Clarissa said, reaching for her pipe. ‘King Demophon is preparing for war, to protect the city against the Mycenaeans.’ She wedged the pipe in the corner of her mouth, struck a match, and relit it. She spoke between puffs. ‘Demophon consults the oracle … to find out his chances of success … The quotation comes from that part of the play.’
