I will go—it would be a disgrace to have it knownthat I argue when I have the power to use force.TeucerLeave then! The worst disgrace for me is that I should listen to a fool’s empty chatter.Exit Menelaus.

ChorusA trial of this great discord will soon come about. But you, Teucer, with all the speed you can muster,be quick to seek a hollow grave for Ajax, where he shall establish his dank tomb, a constant memorial for mortals.

Enter Tecmessa and Eurysaces.TeucerAnd now just in time his son and his wife approachto arrange the burial of the pitiable corpse. Come here, nephew. Take your place near him, and grasp in supplication your father, your begetter. Kneel and pray for help, with locks of hair in your hand from me, her, and thirdly you;they are the suppliant’s only resource. But if any soldier from the army should tear you by violence from this body, then for his wickedness may he be wickedly cast out of his country and get no burial, but be severed at the root with all his race, just as I shear this lock.