How true it is. In the loss of so great an armyI have indeed been dealt a blow, wretched as I am. ChorusWhat that belonged to Persia, unfortunate one, has not been destroyed? XerxesDo you see this remnant of my royal robe? ChorusYes, I do indeed. XerxesAnd this quiver— ChorusWhat is this you say has been saved? XerxesTreasury for shafts? ChorusTruly a small remnant from an ample store. XerxesWe have been deprived of defenders. ChorusIonia’s people shrink not from the spear.

XerxesThey are a war-like people. I have lived to behold a calamity I never expected. ChorusAre you speaking of the routed multitude which manned your ships? XerxesAnd I rent my robe at the disastrous event. ChorusAlas, alas! XerxesNo, far worse than alas. ChorusYes, for twofold and threefold— XerxesPain to us, but exultation to our enemies ChorusYes, and our strength has been maimed.