Page:Tragedies of Sophocles (Jebb 1917).djvu/311

581—606] to it as he enjoined while he lived. The work is finished. May deeds of wicked daring be ever far from my thoughts, and from my knowledge,—as I abhor the women who attempt them! But if in any wise I may prevail against this girl by love-spells and charms used on Heracles, the means to that end are ready;—unless, indeed, I seem to be acting rashly: if so, I will desist forthwith.

. Nay, if these measures give any ground of confidence, we think that thy design is not amiss.

. Well, the ground stands thus,—there is a fair promise; but I have not yet essayed the proof.

. Nay, knowledge must come through action; thou canst have no test which is not fanciful, save by trial.

. Well, we shall know presently:—for there I see the man already at the doors; and he will soon be going.—Only may my secret be well kept by you! While thy deeds are hidden, even though they be not seemly, thou wilt never be brought to shame.

. What are thy commands? Give me my charge, daughter of Oeneus; for already I have tarried over long.

. Indeed, I have just been seeing to this for thee, Lichas, while thou wast speaking to the stranger maidens in the house;—that thou shouldest take for me this long robe, woven by mine own hand, a gift to mine absent lord.

And when thou givest it, charge him that he, and no other, shall be the first to wear it; that it shall not be