You have understood; for, clearly, he is afraid of you, and does not sleep. Orestes Well; it is for you to plan the next step, old man. Old man Hear me then; for something has just come to me. Orestes May you reveal something good, and may I understand it. Old man I saw Aegisthus, when I was on my way here. Orestes I approve what you have said. Where was he? Old man Near these fields, at his stables. Orestes What was he doing? I see some hope, out of difficulties. Old man He was preparing a feast for the Nymphs, I thought. Orestes In return for the bringing up of children or for a coming birth? Old man I only know this: he was preparing to sacrifice an ox. Orestes With how many men? Or alone with his slaves? Old man No Argive was there, but a band of his own servants. Orestes Surely there isn’t anyone who will know me if he sees me, old man? Old man There are slaves, who have never even seen you. Orestes Would they be well disposed to me, if I should prevail? Old man Yes, for that is the way of slaves, luckily for you. Orestes However might I approach him then? Old man By going where he will see you as he sacrifices. Orestes He has fields by the road, it seems? Old man Yes, and when he sees you there, he will invite you to the feast. Orestes I shall be a bitter companion in the feast, if the god wishes it. Old man After that, you yourself invent something, as it falls out. Orestes Well said. But my mother, where is she? Old man At Argos ; but she will join her husband for the feast. Orestes Why didn’t my mother set out with her husband? Old man From fear of the citizens’ reproach she stayed behind. Orestes I understand; she knows that the city suspects her. Old man Something like that; for an unholy woman is an object of hatred.