Suddenly there was a gentle little tap , on the inside of the lid . `` What can that be ? '' cried Pandora , lifting her head . But either Epimetheus had not heard the tap , or was too much out of humor to notice it . At any rate , he made no answer . `` You are very unkind , '' said Pandora , sobbing anew , `` not to speak to me ! '' Again the tap ! It sounded like the tiny knuckles of a fairy 's hand , knocking lightly and playfully on the inside of the box . `` Who are you ? '' asked Pandora , with a little of her former curiosity . `` Who are you , inside of this naughty box ? '' A sweet little voice spoke from within , -- `` Only lift the lid , and you shall see . '' `` No , no , '' answered Pandora , again beginning to sob , `` I have had enough of lifting the lid ! You are inside of the box , naughty creature , and there you shall stay ! There are plenty of your ugly brothers and sisters already flying about the world . You need never think that I shall be so foolish as to let you out ! '' She looked towards Epimetheus , as she spoke , perhaps expecting that he would commend her for her wisdom . But the sullen boy only muttered that she was wise a little too late . `` Ah , '' said the sweet little voice again , `` you had much better let me out . I am not like those naughty creatures that have stings in their tails .
They are no brothers and sisters of mine , as you would see at once , if you were only to get a glimpse XXXXX me .
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