Truly a small remnant from an ample store. XerxesWe have been deprived of defenders. ChorusIonia’s people shrink not from the spear.

XerxesThey are a war-like people. I have lived to behold a calamity I never expected. ChorusAre you speaking of the routed multitude which manned your ships? XerxesAnd I rent my robe at the disastrous event. ChorusAlas, alas! XerxesNo, far worse than alas. ChorusYes, for twofold and threefold— XerxesPain to us, but exultation to our enemies ChorusYes, and our strength has been maimed. XerxesI am stripped of my escort. ChorusBy the disasters of your comrades upon the sea.

XerxesWeep, weep over our calamity, and depart to your homes. ChorusAlas, alas, woe, woe! XerxesCry aloud now in response to me. ChorusA wretched offering from the wretched to the wretched. XerxesCry out, tuning your strain to mine. ChorusOh, oh! That which has happened is grievous indeed.Alas, for I too share in your sorrow.

XerxesStrike, strike, and groan for my sake. ChorusI weep in lamentation! XerxesNow cry aloud in response to me. ChorusThis care, my lord, is mine. XerxesLift up your voice now in lamentation. ChorusOh, oh! And with our wailing, alas, will be mingled bruising blows and shrieks of pain.

XerxesBeat your breast too, and raise the Mysian wail. ChorusAnguish, anguish! XerxesAnd tear, I beg of you, the white hair from your beard. ChorusWith clenched nails, with clenched nails, with loud wailing.