Page:The Plays of Euripides Vol. 1- Edward P. Coleridge (1910).djvu/199

Rh the path of bliss; for one kind of fortune follows hard upon another; one man it brings to naught from his high estate, another though of no account it crowns with happiness. To shun what fate decrees, is no wise permitted; none by cunning shall thrust it from him; but he, who vainly would do so, shall have unceasing trouble. Then fall not prostrate thou, but bear what heaven sends, and set a limit to thy soul's grief; for she, poor maid! in dying for her brothers and this land, hath won a glorious death, and splendid fame shall be her meed from all mankind; for virtue's path leads through troublous ways. Worthy of her father, worthy of her noble birth is this conduct. And if thou dost honour the virtuous dead, I share with thee that sentiment.

. All hail, ye children! Where is aged Iolaus? where the mother of your sire, absent from their place at this altar?

. Here am I, so far as I can be present at all.

. Why dost thou lie there? Why that downcast look?

. There is come a sorrow on my house, whereby I am distressed.

. Arise, lift up thy head.

. I am old, and all my strength is gone.

. But I come with tidings of great joy for thee.

. Who art thou? Where have I met thee? I have no remembrance.

. I am a vassal of Hyllus; dost not recognize me now?

. Best of friends, art thou come to save us twain from hurt?

. Assuredly; and moreover thou art lucky in the present case.

. Alcmena, mother of a noble son, to thee I call! come forth, hear this welcome news. For long has anguish caused thee inwardly to waste, wondering if those, who now are here, would ever come.