’Tis time for all to start, each stout footman, and whoso mounts the car; ’tis time the bit, dripping with foam, should urge the charger on toward the land of Cadmus. For I will march in person to the seven gates thereof with the sharp sword in my hand, and be myself my herald. But thee, Adrastus, I bid stay, nor blend with mine thy fortunes, for I will take my own good star to lead my host, a chieftain famed in famous deeds of arms. One thing alone I need, the favour of all gods that reverence right, for the presence of these things insures victory. For their valour availeth men naught, unless they have the god’s goodwill. [Exit Theseus.

The following lines between the Semi-Choruses are chanted responsively.1st Half-ChorusUnhappy mothers of those hapless chiefs! How wildly in my heart pale fear stirs up alarm!2nd Half-ChorusWhat is this new cry thou utterest?1st Half-ChorusI fear the issue of the strife, whereto the hosts of Pallas march.2nd Half-ChorusDost speak of issues of the sword, or interchange of words?1st Half-ChorusThat last were gain indeed; but if the carnage of battle, fighting, and the noise of beaten breasts again be heard in the land, what, alas! will be said of me, who am the cause thereof?

2nd Half-ChorusYet may fate again bring low the brilliant victor; ’tis this brave thought that twines about my heart.1st Half-ChorusThou speak’st of the gods as if they were just.