How can I, weak mortal as I am, outrun those mightier powers? Old Servant Set fire to Apollo’s awful sanctuary. Creusa I am afraid; my present sorrows are enough for me. Old Servant Then what thou canst, that dare—thy husband’s death. Creusa Nay, I do respect his former love in the days when he was good and true. Old Servant At least, then, slay the boy who hath appeared to supplant thee. Creusa How can I? would it were possible! how I wish it were! Old Servant Arm thy followers with daggers. Creusa I will about it; but where is the deed to be done? Old Servant In the sacred tent, where he is feasting his friends. Creusa The murder will be too public, and slaves are poor support. Old Servant Ah! thou art turning coward. Devise some scheme thyself. Creusa Well, I too have subtle plans that cannot fail. Old Servant If both conditions they fulfil, I will assist thee. Creusa Hearken then; knowest thou the battle of the earth-born men? Old Servant Surely; the fight at Phlegra waged by giants against the gods. Creusa There Earth brought Gorgon forth, dreadful prodigy. Old Servant To aid her sons maybe, and cause the gods hard toil? Creusa Yea, and Pallas, daughter of Zeus, slew the monster. Old Servant What savage form had it assumed? Creusa A breast-plate of vipers fenced its body. Old Servant Is this the tale I heard in days of yore?