I will not, for he who sets hand to the deed is likely also to suffer disaster.ElectraI admire you for your prudence. For your cowardice I hate you.ChrysothemisI will listen no less calmly when you praise me.ElectraNever fear to suffer that from me, at least.ChrysothemisThere is time enough in the future to decide that.ElectraLeave! You have no power to help.ChrysothemisNo, I have it, but you lack the ability to listen and learn.ElectraGo, reveal everything to your mother!ChrysothemisBut, again, I do not hate you with so great a hate.ElectraYet know at least to what dishonor you drive me.ChrysothemisDishonor, no! It is forethought for you.ElectraAm I bound, then, to follow your rule of right?ChrysothemisYes, for when you are sensible, then at that time you shall lead the both of us.ElectraHow terrible it is that one who speaks so well should be so wrong!ChrysothemisYou have well described the fault to which you devotedly cling.ElectraWhat? Do you think that my words are not the words of Justice?ChrysothemisBut sometimes even Justice herself causes harm.ElectraI do not care to live where that attitude is lawful.ChrysothemisWell, if you must do this, you will commend me yet.ElectraAnd do it I will, not a bit disturbed by you.ChrysothemisIs this true? You will not reconsider your plan?ElectraNo, for no enemy is more damaging than bad advice.ChrysothemisYou seem to agree with nothing that I say.ElectraMy resolve is not new, but long since fixed.ChrysothemisThen I will go. You cannot be brought to approve my words, nor I your conduct.ElectraNo, go inside. I will never come after you, even though you may strongly desire it, since it is great folly even to attempt a useless quest.ChrysothemisWell, if you seem to think straight in your own eyes, may you go on thinking so. Eventually, when you have fallen into trouble, you will approve my advice. Exit Chrysothemis into the house.

ChorusWhy, though we see the birds above, most thoughtful creatures, taking care for the sustenanceof those from whom they derived life and enjoyment, why do we not pay these debts in like measure? No, by the lightning-flash of Zeus, by Themis throned in the sky,we are not long unpunished. O Voice of the underworld that reaches to mortals, shout for me a piteous cry to the sons of Atreus below. Carry the reproaches not appropriate to my dancing!