Is your attempt not foolish, to seek the throne without followers or friends—a prize which followers and wealth must win?CreonMark me now: hear a fair reply in answer to your words, and then judge for yourself on the basis of knowledge.OedipusYou are apt in speech, but I have a poor wit for lessons, since I have found you a malignant foe.CreonNow hear first how I will explain this very thing.OedipusOne thing—that you are not false—do not bother to explain to me.CreonIf you think that stubbornnesswithout sense is a virtue, you are not wise.OedipusIf you think you can wrong a kinsman and escape the penalty, you are not sane.CreonJustly said, I grant you: but tell me what the wrong is that you say you are suffering at my hands.OedipusDid you, or did you not, advise me to send for that reverend seer?CreonEven now I am of the same mind.OedipusHow long is it, then, since Laius . . .CreonDid what? I do not understand.Oedipuswas swept out of sight by deadly violence?CreonThe count of years would run far into the past.OedipusDid this seer possess this skill in those days?CreonHe was wise as now, and held in equal honor.OedipusDid he make mention of me at that time?CreonNever, certainly, when I was within hearing.OedipusDid you never investigate the murder?