A bitter foe to thy country because of the death of Achilles. Andromache ’Twas not I that slew him, but Helen that mother of thine. Hermione Pray, is it thy intention to probe my wounds yet deeper? Andromache Behold, I am dumb, my lips are closed. Hermione Tell me that which was my only reason for coming hither. Andromache No! all I tell thee is, thou hast less wisdom than thou needest. Hermione Wilt thou leave these hallowed precincts of the sea-goddess? Andromache Yes, if I am not to die for it; otherwise, I never will. Hermione Since that is thy resolve, I shall not even wait my lord’s return. Andromache Nor yet will I, at any rate ere that, surrender to thee. Hermione I will bring fire to bear on thee, and pay no heed to thy entreaties. Andromache Kindle thy blaze then; the gods will witness it.