of our ancestral gods’ statues? Ah, blessed gods, firmly enthroned, the time has come to hold fast to your statues. Why do we delay, who are much to be lamented?Do you hear the clash of shields, or does it escape you? When, if not now, shall we place sacred robes and wreaths on the statues to accompany our prayers? I see the clash—it is not the clatter of a single spear. What will you do? Will you betrayyour own land, Ares, where you have dwelt since long ago? God of the golden helmet, look, look upon the city that you once cherished!

ChorusOh come all you gods who guard our city and its land!See this suppliant band of maidens praying to be saved from slavery. A torrent of men, their helmet plumes tossing, crashes around the city,sped on by the blasts of Ares. No! Father Zeus, all-accomplishing, fend from us altogether capture at the hands of the enemy. The Argives encircle the citadel of Cadmus. Terror of their weapons of war shakes us, as the bridles in the horse’s jaws rattle the sound of death. Seven bold captains, conspicuous among the armyin spear-wielding harnesses, at the seven gates take their stand each according to his lot.

ChorusPallas, Zeus-born power delighting in battle, prove yourself the savior of the city!And you, lord of steeds, ruler of the deep, Poseidon, with your fish-striking weapon grant us release from our fears, grant us release! You too, Ares—pity us!—guard the city named for Cadmus and make evident your closenessκῆδος means both kinship and care. The wife of Cadmus was Harmonia, daughter of Ares and Aphrodite. to us!And Cypris, you who are the first mother of our race, defend us who are sprung from your blood. We come to you, crying out in prayers for your divine ears. And you, Apollo, lord of the Wolf,See the note on Aesch. Suppl. 686. be a wolf to the enemy force and give them groan for groan! You too, maiden child of Leto, ready your bow!