Page:Sophocles' King Oedipus.pdf/58

48

. Here Creon comes at a fit moment, you can ask of him what you will, help or counsel, for he is now in your place. He is king.

. What can I say to him? What can I claim, having been altogether unjust to him?

. I have not come in mockery, Oedipus, nor to reproach you. Lead him in to the house as quickly as you can. Do not let him display his misery before strangers.

. I must obey, but first, since you have come in so noble a spirit, you will hear me.

. Say what you will.

. I know that you will give her that lies within such a tomb as befits your own blood, but there is something more, Creon. My sons are men and can take care of themselves, but my daughters, my two unhappy daughters, that have ever eaten at my own table and shared my food, watch over my daughters, Creon. If it is lawful, let me touch them with my hands. Grant it, prince, grant it, noble heart. I would believe could I touch them that I still saw them.

[ and are led in by attendants.