Helen
Euripides
Euripides. The Plays of Euripides, Translated into English Prose from the Text of Paley. Vol. I. Coleridge, Edward P., translator. London: George Bell and Sons, 1906.
- Perhaps we might persuade her by supplication—
- To do what? What hope are you leading me to?
- Not to tell her brother that you are here in this land.
- If we persuade her, could we get away from this country?
- Easily, in common with her; but secretly we could not.
- The task is yours; it is suitable for women to deal with women.
- Be sure that I will clasp her knees.
- Well, then, what if she rejects our proposals?
- You will die. And I, the unhappy one, will be married by force.
- You would be a traitor; that force of yours is all an excuse.
- But I have sworn a sacred oath by your life—
- What do you mean? To die? And never to take his bed in exchange for mine?
- Yes, by the same sword; I will lie at your side.
- Then on these conditions touch my right hand.
- I touch it, swearing that I will leave the light of day if you die.