Page:Tragedies of Sophocles (Jebb 1917).djvu/35

558—579] . How long is it, then, since Laïus—

. Since Laïus…? I take not thy drift…

. —was swept from men's sight by a deadly violence?

. The count of years would run far into the past.

. Was this seer, then, of the craft in those days?

. Yea, skilled as now, and in equal honour.

. Made he, then, any mention of me at that time?

. Never, certainly, when I was within hearing.

. But held ye not a search touching the murder?

. Due search we held, of course—and learned nothing.

. And how was it that this sage did not tell his story then?

. I know not; where I lack light, 'tis my wont to be silent.

. Thus much, at least, thou knowest, and couldst declare with light enough.

. What is that? If I know it, I will not deny.

. That, if he had not conferred with thee, he would never have named my slaying of Laïus.

. If so he speaks, thou best knowest; but I claim to learn from thee as much as thou hast now from me.

. Learn thy fill: I shall never be found guilty of the blood.

. Say, then—thou hast married my sister?

. The question allows not of denial.

. And thou rulest the land as she doth, with like sway?