Page:Sophocles (Storr 1912) v1.djvu/277



I marvel not if thou hast dallied long

In converse with thy children and preferred

Their speech to mine; I feel no jealousy,

I would be famous more by deeds than words.

Of this, old friend, thou hast had proof; my oath

I have fulfilled and brought thee back the maids

Alive and nothing harmed for all those threats.

And how the fight was won, ’twere waste of words

To boast—thy daughters here will tell thee all.

But of a matter that has lately chanced

On my way hitherward, I fain would have

Thy counsel—slight ’twould seem, yet worthy thought.

A wise man heeds all matters great or small.

What is it, son of Aegeus? Let me hear.

Of what thou askest I myself know nought.

’Tis said a man, no countryman of thine,

But of thy kin, hath taken sanctuary

Beside the altar of Poseidon, where

I was at sacrifice when called away.

What is his country? what the suitor’s prayer?

I know but one thing; he implores, I am told,

A word with thee—he will not trouble thee.

What seeks he? If a suppliant, something grave. 255