What is the matter? Where strays your speech?NeoptolemusI do not know where to turn my tongue when my thoughts are so confused.PhiloctetesConfused? How so? No, do not say it!NeoptolemusMy mind is indeed brought to that condition.PhiloctetesIt cannot be that offense at my sickness has persuaded you not to take me aboard your ship?NeoptolemusAll is offense when a man has abandoned his true nature and does what does not suit him.PhiloctetesBut you, at least, are not departing from your begetter’sexample either in word or deed, when you help a man who is noble.NeoptolemusI shall be found to have no honor—this is the thought that long torments me.PhiloctetesNot because of your present deeds, at least. But because of your words, I worry.NeoptolemusO Zeus, what shall I do? Must I be twice found base—by disloyal silence, as well as by shameful speech?