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Rh Hercules to attack and storm Œchalia. Such is the whole truth, concludes this ancient mischief-maker, which it has been his painful duty to tell—at all costs.

Lichas now comes to ask his mistress if she has any parting message for Hercules; and Dejanira confronts him with his falsehood. He protests and denies, and repeats his former story. Then Dejanira, with a woman's duplicity, bids him speak out and fear nothing. She knows the ways of men—she knows the power of love—she knows the amorous temper of her husband:—

Lichas is completely deceived by this speech, and is persuaded that Dejanira will resign herself quietly to her fate. Accordingly he confirms what the messenger had already told her; but, like a good servant, he makes out the best case he can for his master.

Well then, dear mistress, since I see that thou,

Being human, hast a human heart, and know'st