Orestes

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.

  1. but leave him to be stoned to death by the citizens, or do not set foot on Spartan land. Remember you have been told all this, and do not choose the ungodly as friends, pushing aside the more righteous. Servants, lead me from this house. Exit Tyndareus.
Orestes
  1. Go, so that the remainder of my speech may come to this man without interruption, free from your old age.
  2. Menelaus, why are you pacing round and round in thought, going back and forth, in a dilemma?
Menelaus
  1. Let me alone! When I think it over,
  2. I am perplexed to know where to turn in these events.
Orestes
  1. Do not come to a final decision now, but after first hearing what I have to say, then make up your mind.
Menelaus
  1. Good advice! Speak. There are times when silence would be better than speech, and the reverse also.
Orestes
  1. I will speak now. A long statement has advantages over a short one and is more intelligible to listen to. Give me nothing of your own, Menelaus, but repay what you received from my father. As Menelaus makes a deprecating gesture.I am not speaking of possessions; if you save my life,