The Suppliants (305-334)

to venture somewhat for injured folk; and this, my son, it is that brings thee now thy honour, and causes me no fear to urge that thou shouldst use[*] thy power to make men of violence, who prevent the dead from receiving their meed of burial and funeral rites,

perform this bounden duty, and check those who would confound the customs of all Hellas; for this it is that holds men’s states together,—strict observance of the laws. And some, no doubt, will say, ’twas cowardice made thee stand aloof in terror,

when thou mightest have won for thy city a crown of glory, and, though thou didst encounter a savage swine,[*] labouring for a sorry task, yet when the time came for thee to face the helmet and pointed spear, and do thy best, thou wert found to be a coward.

Nay! do not so if thou be son of mine. Dost see how fiercely thy country looks on its revilers when they mock her for want of counsel? Yea, for in her toils she groweth greater. But states, whose policy is dark and cautious,

have their sight darkened by their carefulness. My son, wilt thou not go succour the dead and these poor women in their need? I have no fears for thee, starting as thou dost with right upon thy side; and although I see the prosperity of Cadmus’ folk,

still am I confident they will throw a different die; for the deity reverses all things again.

Ah! best of friends, right well hast thou pleaded for me and for Adrastus, and hence my joy is doubled.

Mother, the words that I have spoken