O gods, avert these troubles and reconcile the sons of Oedipus!

EteoclesMother, it is no longer a contest of words; the time we still delay is idle waste; your good wishes accomplish nothing;for we can never be reconciled except upon the terms already named, that I should keep the scepter and be king of this land. Cease these tedious warnings and let me be. Turning to Polyneices And as for you, get outside the walls, or die!PolyneicesWho will kill me? Who is so invulnerable as to plunge a murderous swordin my body without getting for himself the same fate?EteoclesHe is near, not far away. Do you see my hands?PolyneicesI see them; but wealth is cowardly, a craven too fond of life.EteoclesThen did you come to battle with so many against a man worth nothing?PolyneicesYes, for a steadfast general is better than a bold one.EteoclesRelying on the truce, which saves your life, you turn boaster.PolyneicesAnd so do you; once more I demand back my scepter and share of the land.EteoclesI admit no demand; I will live in my own house.PolyneicesAnd keep more than your share?EteoclesYes. Leave the country!PolyneicesO altars of my fathers’ gods—EteoclesWhich you are here to destroy.PolyneicesHear me—