Page:Works of Voltaire Volume 16.djvu/182

160 From Œdipus his traitorous purpose scarce Could he conceal; for soon unwary youth Betrays itself: soon through the thin disguise Of ill dissembled loyalty, we saw The rancor of his heart. I know not what Provoked him, but too warm and open, ever The slave of passion, he would kindle oft At the king's name, and often pour forth threats Of vengeance: for some time he left the kingdom, But fate soon brought the restless wanderer back; And at that fatal time, which heaven distinguished By the detested shocking parricide, He was at Thebes: e'er since that dreadful hour, Suspicion justly falls on Philoctetes: But the high name which he had gained in war, His boasted title of earth's great avenger, And his heroic deeds, have stopped the tongue Of clamor, and suspended yet the stroke Of our resentment. Now the time is come When Thebes shall think no more of vain respect; His glory and his conquests plead no more; The hearts of an oppressed people groan; The gods require his blood, and must be heard.

O queen! have pity on a wretched people, Who love and honor thee, revere the gods, And follow their example; yield up to us Their victim, and present our vows to heaven; For heaven will hear them, if they come from thee.

O! if my life can mitigate its wrath, I give it freely; take the sacrifice; Accept my blood; but O! demand no more. Thebans, be gone.