Page 167 - YB1959_Classical

Zeus offered hints to ease adjustment ... But Prudence had no trouble getting along. ing, "required Temple" on weekends, and the presence of the celestial chain blocking the entrance to the Elysian Fields, were refused attention in a gusty roar by omnipotent Pluto. Not being aggressive, our hero found himself at the end of a long line of complainants. His case was a worthy one. The old Parthenon was falling down, the steps were sagging and even the bats and rats had left; the only remaining forms of life were the Vestal Virgins. As soon as Ulysses' request was spoken, Pluto thun- dered "NO! ... Traditions are cheaper than improvements !" Arriving back in Dianopolis, the one-time hero found himself a friendless failure. In an attempt to worm his way back into the good graces of the inhabitants of the city-state, Ulysses agreed to keep a bonfire blazing at a "pep orgy" scheduled for the eve of the Olym- pic games. On the night of the big orgy, loqua- cious Ulysses became so engrossed in talk with the guys that he neglected Max and the bon- fire. Suddenly amidst the revelry, flames appeared. Old Parthenon was burning down!