Page:Tragedies of Euripides (Way 1896) v2.djvu/295

Rh Thou sacrifice for me—I know not how—

The wonted tenth-moon offerings for the babe,

Skilless am I, who have borne no child ere this.

This were her task, who in thy travail helped.

Unhelped I travailed, bore alone my babe.

Dwell'st thou from friends and neighbours so remote?

The poor—none careth to win these for friends!

I enter, to the Gods to pay the dues

For a son's time accomplished. Having shown thee

That grace, I pass afield, to where my lord

Worships the Nymphs. This chariot ye my maids

Lead hence, and stall my steeds. Soon as ye deem

That this my service to the Gods is done,

Attend. My spouse too must my presence grace.

Pass in to my poor house; and have a care

The smoke-grimed beams besmirch not thine attire.

The Gods' due sacrifice there shalt thou offer.

The maund is dight, and whetted is the knife

Which slew the bull by whose side thou shalt lie