Page:Tragedies of Sophocles (Jebb 1917).djvu/42

30 . And where is the place where this befell?

. The land is called Phocis; and branching roads lead to the same spot from Delphi and from Daulia.

. And what is the time that hath passed since these things were?

. The news was published to the town shortly before thou wast first seen in power over this land.

. O Zeus, what hast thou decreed to do unto me?

. And wherefore, Oedipus, doth this thing weigh upon thy soul?

. Ask me not yet; but say what was the stature of Laïus, and how ripe his manhood.

. He was tall,—the silver just lightly strewn among his hair; and his form was not greatly unlike to thine.

. Unhappy that I am! Methinks I have been laying myself even now under a dread curse, and knew it not.

. How sayest thou? I tremble when I look on thee, my king.

. Dread misgivings have I that the seer can see. But thou wilt show better if thou wilt tell me one thing more.

. Indeed—though I tremble—I will answer all thou askest, when I hear it.

. Went he in small force, or with many armed followers, like a chieftain?

. Five they were in all,—a herald one of them; and there was one carriage, which bore Laïus.

. Alas! 'Tis now clear indeed.—Who was he who gave you these tidings, lady?