Page:Sophocles (Storr 1912) v1.djvu/227



When may we hope to reap the benefit?

When I am dead and thou hast buried me.

Thou cravest life’s last service; all before—

Is it forgotten or of no account?

Yea, the last boon is warrant for the rest.

The grace thou cravest then is small indeed.

Nay, weigh it well; the issue is not slight.

Thou meanest that betwixt thy sons and me?

Prince, they would fain convey me back to Thebes.

If there be no compulsion, then methinks

To rest in banishment befits not thee.

Nay, when I wished it they would not consent.

For shame! such temper misbecomes the fallen.

Chide if thou wilt, but first attend my plea.

Say on, I wait full knowledge ere I judge.

O Theseus, I have suffered wrongs on wrongs. 205