That last were gain indeed; but if the carnage of battle, fighting, and the noise of beaten breasts again be heard in the land, what, alas! will be said of me, who am the cause thereof?

2nd Half-ChorusYet may fate again bring low the brilliant victor; ’tis this brave thought that twines about my heart.1st Half-ChorusThou speak’st of the gods as if they were just.2nd Half-ChorusFor who but they allot whate’er betides?1st Half-ChorusI see many a contradiction in their dealings with men.2nd Half-ChorusThe former fear hath warped thy judgment. Vengeance calls vengeance forth; slaughter calls for slaughter, but the gods give respite from affliction, holding in their own hands each thing’s allotted end.