I could wish it so; but I see great difficulties in this. Eteocles I will not keep my army within the walls. Creon And yet victory is entirely a matter of good counsel. Eteocles Do you then want me to turn to some other way? Creon Yes, to every one, before running the risk once for all. Eteocles Suppose we fall on them by night from ambush? Creon Yes, if in the event of defeat you can return safely here. Eteocles Night equalizes risks, though it rather favors daring. Creon The darkness of night is a terrible time to suffer disaster. Eteocles Well, shall I attack them as they sit at dinner? Creon That might cause them fright, but victory is what we need. Eteocles Dirce’s ford is certainly deep enough to prevent their retreat. Creon No plan so good as to keep well guarded. Eteocles What if we ride out against the army of Argos ? Creon Their troops too are fenced all round with chariots. Eteocles What shall I do, then? Am I to surrender the city to the enemy? Creon No indeed! But out of your wisdom form some plan. Eteocles What forethought is wiser than mine? Creon They have seven men, I hear— Eteocles What is their appointed task? their might is small. Creon . . . To attack the seven gates. Eteocles What are we to do then? I will not wait till every chance is gone. Creon You also choose seven men to set against them at the gates. Eteocles To lead our companies, or to fight single-handed? Creon To lead; choose the very bravest ones. Eteocles I understand; to repel attempts at scaling our walls. Creon With others to share the command, for one man doesn’t see everything. Eteocles Selecting them for courage or thoughtful prudence? Creon Both; for one is nothing without the other. Eteocles It shall be done; I will go to our seven towers and post captains at the gates, as you say,