Electra (595-636)

to enter the city.

Well; I have the loving pleasures of your greeting and later I will give them back in turn. You, old man, for you have come at the right time, tell me, what should I do to avenge myself on my father’s murderer

and on my mother,the partner in his unholy marriage? Do I still have any well-disposed friends in Argos? Or am I wholly bankrupt, just as my fortunes are? With whom shall I ally myself? By night or day? What course shall I take against my enemies?

Child, you have no friend in your misfortune. For this thing is a godsend indeed, to share in common, both good and bad. But you—for you have been destroyed from the foundations, in the eyes of your friends, and you have left them no hope—hear it from me and know:

all that you have is in your own arm and fortune, to win your father’s home and your city.

What must I do then to accomplish this?

Kill Thyestes’ son and your mother.

I have come for that victor’s crown; but how shall I grasp it?

Not by going within the walls, even if you wanted to.

Is he well furnished with garrisons and body-guards?

You have understood; for, clearly, he is afraid of you, and does not sleep.

Well; it is for you to plan the next step, old man.

Hear me then; for something has just come to me.

May you reveal something good, and may I understand it.

I saw Aegisthus, when I was on my way here.

I approve what you have said. Where was he?

Near these fields, at his stables.

What was he doing? I see some hope, out of difficulties.

He was preparing a feast for the Nymphs, I thought.

In return for the bringing up of children or for a coming birth?

I only know this: he was preparing to sacrifice an ox.

With how many men? Or alone with his slaves?

No Argive was there, but a band of his own servants.

Surely there isn’t anyone who will know me if he sees me, old man?

There are slaves, who have never even seen you.

Would they be well disposed to me, if I should prevail?

Yes, for that is the way of slaves, luckily for you.

However might I approach him then?

By going where he will see you as he sacrifices.

He has fields by the road, it seems?