Page:Tragedies of Seneca (1907) Miller.djvu/130

112 [Sees a vision of the furies and her brother's ghost.] But whither hastes that throng Of furies? What their quest? What mean their brandished fires? Whom threats this hellish host with horrid, bloody brands? I hear the writhing lash resound of serpents huge. Whom Seeks Megaera with her deadly torch? Whose shade Comes gibbering there with scattered limbs? It is my brother! Revenge he seeks, and w will grant his quest. Then come, Within my heart plunge all your torches, rend me, burn; For lo, my bosom open to your fury's stroke. brother, bid these vengeful goddesses depart And go in peace down to the lowest shades of hell. And do thou leave me to myself, and let this hand That slew thee with the sword now offer sacrifice Unto thy shade. [Slays her first son.] What sudden uproar meets my ear? 'Tis Corinth's citizens on my destruction bent. Unto the palace roof I'll mount and there complete This bloody sacrifice. [To her remaining son.] Do thou come hence with me. But thee, poor senseless corse, within mine arms I'll bear. Now gird thyself, my heart, with strength. Nor must this deed Lose all its just renown because in secret done; But to the public eye my hand must be approved. Jason [in the street below shouting to citizens]: Ho, all ye loyal sons, who mourn the death of kings! Come, let us seize the worker of this hideous crime. Now ply your arms and raze her palace to the ground. Medea [appearing on the housetop with her two sons]: Now, now have I regained my regal state, my sire, My brother! Once again the Colchians hold the spoil Of precious gold! And by the magic of this hour I am a maid once more. O heavenly powers, appeased At length! O festal hour! O nuptial day! On, on! Accomplished is the guilt, but not the recompense. Complete the task while yet thy hands are strong to act!