By the Ilissus
SocratesLet us turn off here and walk along the Ilissus. Then we can sit quietly wherever we like.
PhaedrusAs it happens, I am barefoot, and just at the right time, it seems. You always are, of course. We can easily walk through the shallow water and wet our feet; it would be pleasant too, especially at this time of year and this time of day.
SocratesLead on, then, and look for a place where we can sit.
PhaedrusDo you see that very tall plane tree?
SocratesOf course.
PhaedrusThere is shade there, a gentle breeze and grass where we can sit or lie down if we wish.
SocratesLead the way.
PhaedrusSocrates, tell me: do people place Boreas’ abduction of Oreithyia somewhere along this stretch of the Ilissus?
SocratesSo they say.
PhaedrusWas it here, then? The water looks lovely, clear and transparent, just the place for girls to play beside it.
SocratesNo, farther downstream, about two or three stades away, where we cross towards Agrae. I think there is an altar of Boreas there.
PhaedrusI have not really noticed it. But tell me, by Zeus, Socrates: do you believe the story is true?