Orestes (1313-1369)

My dearest friends, it is Hermione advancing into the middle of the bloodshed; let our clamor cease.

For she comes headlong into the meshes of the net. The prey will be good, if it is caught. Take up your places again with looks composed and faces not betraying what has happened; I too will have a gloomy look,

as if I knew nothing of what has been done. Addressing Hermione as she approaches. Ah! maiden, have you come from wreathing Clytemnestra’s grave and pouring libations to the dead?

Yes, I have returned after securing her favor; but I was filled with some alarm about a cry I heard from the palace

as I was still at a distance.

But why? Our present lot gives cause for groans.

Oh, don’t say so! What is your news?

Argos has sentenced Orestes and me to death.

Oh no! not my own relatives!

It is decreed; we have put on the yoke of necessity.

Was this the reason of the cry within?

Yes, a suppliant cried out as he fell at Helen’s knees—

Who is he? I know nothing more, if you do not tell me.

Unhappy Orestes, entreating mercy for himself and me.

The house then has good reason to shout.

What else would make someone entreat more earnestly? But come and throw yourself before your mother in her prosperity, join your friends’ supplication that Menelaus may not see us die.

O you that were nursed in my mother’s arms, have pity on us and relieve our pain. Come here to the struggle, and I myself will be your guide; for you alone have power over our safety.

See, I am hastening to the house;

as far it as rests with me, regard yourselves as safe. Exit Hermione .

Now, friends in the house with swords, seize the prey!

Oh no! Who are these I see?

(within.) Silence! You are here for our safety, not yours.

Hold her, hold her! Point a sword at her throat,

then wait in silence, that Menelaus may learn that he has found men, not Phrygian cowards, and he has been treated as cowards deserve.