’Tis time for all to start, each stout footman, and whoso mounts the car; ’tis time the bit, dripping with foam, should urge the charger on toward the land of Cadmus. For I will march in person to the seven gates thereof with the sharp sword in my hand, and be myself my herald. But thee, Adrastus, I bid stay, nor blend with mine thy fortunes, for I will take my own good star to lead my host, a chieftain famed in famous deeds of arms. One thing alone I need, the favour of all gods that reverence right, for the presence of these things insures victory. For their valour availeth men naught, unless they have the god’s goodwill. [Exit Theseus.

The following lines between the Semi-Choruses are chanted responsively.1st Half-ChorusUnhappy mothers of those hapless chiefs! How wildly in my heart pale fear stirs up alarm!2nd Half-ChorusWhat is this new cry thou utterest?1st Half-ChorusI fear the issue of the strife, whereto the hosts of Pallas march.2nd Half-ChorusDost speak of issues of the sword, or interchange of words?