Page:The Dramas of Aeschylus (Swanwick).djvu/446

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What matters it? This may not be disclosed.

Shall then his consort drive him from his throne?

Ay, a son bearing stronger than his sire.

Is there for him no refuge from this doom?

No, none; unless I be from bonds released.

Who shall release thee 'gainst the will of Zeus?

One of thy progeny, 'tis so ordained.

How so? shall child of mine free thee from bale?

Count ten descents, and after them a third.

Not easy is this oracle to spell.

So neither seek thy proper grief to learn.

Nay, hold not forth a boon and straight withdraw it.