No, indeed no. I think it is better now.—Gods, oh!NeoptolemusWhy do you groan like this and call on the gods?PhiloctetesThat they may come to me with power to save and soothe.—Ai! Ai!NeoptolemusWhat troubles you? Speak, do not keep so silent. It is plain enough that you are suffering somehow.PhiloctetesI am destroyed, boy—I can never conceal my suffering when you are close. Ah! Ah! It shoots through me, shoots straight through! Oh, the pain,the misery!I am destroyed, boy—I am devoured! Ah, by the gods I beg you, if you have a sword ready to hand, strike at my ankle—cut it off now! Do not spare my life!Quick, boy, quick!NeoptolemusWhat new thing has come on you so suddenly that you wail for yourself with these loud shrieks?PhiloctetesYou know, son.NeoptolemusWhat is it?PhiloctetesYou know, boy.