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141 ANTIGONE 141

And we must bow to this, and worse than this.

I then, entreating those that dwell below, 70

To judge me leniently, as forced to yield,

Will hearken to our rulers. Over-zeal

That still will meddle, little wisdom shows.

Antigone. I will not ask thee, nor though thou shouldst wish To do it, shouldst thou join with my consent. 75

Do what thou wilt, I go to bury him ; And good it were, in doing this, to die. Lovied I shall be with him whom I have loved, Guilty of holiest crime. More time is mine In which to share the favor of the dead, so

Than that of those who live ; for I shall rest For ever there. But thou, if thus thou please, Count as dishonored what the Gods approve.

Ismene. I do them no dishonor, but I find Myself too weak to war against the State. es

Antigone. Make what excuse thou wilt, I go to rear A grave above the brother whom I love.

Ismene. Ah, wretched me ! how much I fear for thee !

Antigone. Fear not for me. Thine own fate raise to safety.

Ismene. At any rate, disclose this deed to none ; 90 Keep it close hidden : I will hide it too.

Antigone. Speak out ! I bid thee. Silent, thou wilt be More hateful to me, if thou fail to tell My deed to all men.

Ismene. Fiery is thy mood.

Although thy deeds the very blood might chill. 95

Antigone. I* know I please the souls I ought to please.

Ismene. Yes, if thou canst ; thou seek'st the impos- sible.