Page:Tragedies of Sophocles (Jebb 1917).djvu/83

275—304] Wherefore, strangers, I beseech you by the gods, even as ye made me leave my seat, so protect me, and do not, while ye honour the gods, refuse to give those gods their due; but rather deem that they look on the god-fearing among men, and on the godless, and that never yet hath escape been found for an impious mortal on the earth.

With the help of those gods, spare to cloud the bright fame of Athens by ministering to unholy deeds; but, as ye have received the suppliant under your pledge, rescue me and guard me to the end; nor scorn me when ye look on this face unlovely to behold: for I have come to you as one sacred, and pious, and fraught with comfort for this people. But when the master is come, whosoever he be that is your chief, then shall ye hear and know all; meanwhile in no wise show yourself false.

. The thoughts urged on thy part, old man, must needs move awe; they have been set forth in words not light; but I am content that the rulers of our country should judge in this cause.

. And where, strangers, is the lord of this realm?

. He is at the city of his father in our land; and the messenger who sent us hither hath gone to fetch him.

. Think ye that he will have any regard or care for the blind man, so as to come hither himself?

. Yea, surely, so soon as he learns thy name.

. Who is there to bring him that message?

. The way is long, and many rumours from wayfarers are wont to go abroad; when he hears them,