Page:Tragedies of Seneca (1907) Miller.djvu/429

Rh While she, his mate, pursues her bloody task. So each responds to each in infamy. Thyestes' son in very truth is he, While she to Helen proves her sisterhood. The sun stands doubtful on the edge of day; Shall he go on or backward bend his way? [Remains beside the altar.] [Enter Electra, leading her little brother, Orestes.] Electra: Flee, sole avenger of my father's death, Oh, flee, and shun these impious butchers' hands. Our royal house is utterly o'erthrown, Our kingdom gone. But see, a stranger comes, His horses driven to their utmost speed; Come, brother, hide thyself beneath my robe. But, O my foolish heart, whom dost thou fear? A stranger? Nay, thy foes are here at home. Put off thy fears, for close at hand I see The timely shelter of a faithful friend.

Strophius: I, Strophius, had left my Phocian realm, And now, illustrious with th' Olympic palm, I home return. My hither course is bent To 'gratulate my friend, by whose assault Has Ilium fallen after years of war. [Noticing Electra's distress.] But why these flowing tears and looks of woe? And why these marks of fear? I recognize In thee the royal house. Electra! Why, When all is joyful here, dost thou lament? Electra: My father lies within the palace, slain By Clytemnestra's hand. His son is doomed To share his father's death. Aegisthus holds The throne which he through guilty love has gained. Strophius: Oh, happiness that never long endures! Electra: By all thy kindly memories of my sire, By his proud scepter, known to all the earth, And by the fickle gods, I pray thee take My brother hence, and hide him from his foes.