You speak the truth, though it was long ago.MessengerCome, tell me now: do you remember having given me a boy in those days, to be reared as my own foster-son?ServantWhat now? Why do you ask the question?MessengerThis man, my friend, is he who then was young.ServantDamn you! Be silent once and for all!OedipusDo not rebuke him, old man. Your words need rebuking more than his.ServantAnd in what way, most noble master, do I offend?OedipusIn not telling of the boy about whom he asks.ServantHe speaks without knowledge, but is busy to no purpose.OedipusYou will not speak with good grace, but will in pain.ServantNo, in the name of the gods, do not mistreat an old man.OedipusSomeone, quick—tie his hands him this instant!ServantAlas, why? What do you want to learn?OedipusDid you give this man the child about whom he asks?ServantI did. Would that I had perished that day!OedipusWell, you will come to that, unless you tell the honest truth.ServantBut if I speak I will be destroyed all the more.OedipusThis man is bent, I think, on more delays.ServantNo, no! I said before that I gave it to him.OedipusWhere did you get it from? From your own house, or from another?