Orestes
Euripides
Euripides. The Plays of Euripides, Translated into English Prose from the Text of Paley. Vol. II. Coleridge, Edward P., translator. London: George Bell and Sons, 1891.
- Let us make haste and go on; I will keep careful watch upon this road towards the east.
- And I on this one, that leads westward.
- Throw a glance sideways.
- Here and there, then we are looking back again,
- as you tell us.
- Cast your eyes around, let them see everything, through your tresses.
- Who is that on the road? Who is this
- country-man wandering round your house?
- Ah! friends, we are ruined; he will at once reveal to our enemies the armed ambush.
- (Reconnoitring.Calm your fears; the road is not occupied, as you think, my dear.
- (Turning to the other watchers.)Well? Is your side still secure? Give me a good report, if the space before the court-yard is deserted.
- All goes well here; look to your own watch, for no Danaid is approaching us.
- Your report agrees with mine; there is no noise here either.
- Well then, I will listen in the gateway.
- (Calling through the door.)You within the house, why are you delaying to spill your victim’s blood,
- now that all is quiet?
- They do not hear; alas for my troubles! Can it be that her beauty has blunted their swords?
- Soon some Argive in full armor, hurrying
- to her rescue, will attack the palace.
- Keep a better look-out; it is not a contest of sitting still; turn about, some here, some there.