Andromache
Euripides
Euripides. The Plays of Euripides, Translated into English Prose from the Text of Paley. Vol. II. Coleridge, Edward P., translator. London: George Bell and Sons, 1891.
- Ye dames of Phthia, answer my questions. I heard a vague rumour that the daughter of Menelaus had left these halls
- and fled; so now am I come in hot haste to learn if this be true; for it is the duty of those who are at home to labour in the interests of their absent friends.
- Thou hast heard aright, O Peleus; ill would it become me to hide the evil case in which I now find myself;
- our queen has fled and left these halls.
- What was she afraid of? explain that to me.
- She was fearful her lord would cast her out
- In return[*](Nauck reads ἀντίποινα for MSS ἀντὶ παιδὸς.) for plotting his child’s death? surely not?
- Yea, and she was afraid of yon captive.
- With whom did she leave the house? with her father?
- The son of Agamemnon came and took her hence.
- What view hath he to further[*](Nauck προτείνων.) thereby? Will he marry her?
- Yes, and he is plotting thy grandson’s death.
- From an ambuscade, or meeting him fairly face to face?
- In the holy place of Loxias, leagued with Delphians.
- God help us! This is an immediate danger. Hasten one of you with all speed to the Pythian altar and tell our friends there what has happened here, ere Achilles’ son be slain by his enemies. Enter a Messenger.
- Woe worth the day! what evil tidings have I brought for thee, old sire, and for all who love my master! woe is me!
- Alas! my prophetic soul hath a presentiment.