Page:The Plays of Euripides Vol. 1- Edward P. Coleridge (1910).djvu/233

Rh my host, a chieftain famed in famous deeds of arms. One thing alone I need, the favour of all gods that reverence right, for the presence of these things insures victory. For their valour availeth men naught, unless they have the god's goodwill. [Exit. . Unhappy mothers of those hapless chiefs! How wildly in my heart pale fear stirs up alarm!

. What is this new cry thou utterest?

. I fear the issue of the strife, whereto the hosts of Pallas march.

. Dost speak of issues of the sword, or interchange of words?

. That last were gain indeed; but if the carnage of battle, fighting, and the noise of beaten breasts again be heard in the land, what, alas! will be said of me, who am the cause thereof?

. Yet may fate again bring low the brilliant victor; 'tis this brave thought that twines about my heart.

. Thou speak'st of the gods as if they were just.

. For who but they allot whate'er betides?

. I see many a contradiction in their dealings with men.

. The former fear hath warped thy judgment. Vengeance calls vengeance forth; slaughter calls for slaughter, but the gods give respite from affliction, holding in their own hands each thing's allotted end.

. Would I could reach yon plains with turrets crowned, leaving Callichorus, fountain of the goddess!

. O that some god would give me wings to fly to the city of rivers twain!

. So might'st thou see and know the fortunes of thy friends.

. What fate, what issue there awaits the valiant monarch of this land?