While I in a beggar's cot
On the wrecked hills, changing not,
Starve in my soul for food;
But our mother lieth wed
In another's arms, and blood
Is about her bed.
Leader.
On all of Greece she wrought great jeopardy,
Thy mother's sister, Helen,—and on thee.
[Orestes and Pylades move out from their concealment; Orestes comes forward: Pylades beckons to two Armed Servants and stays with them in the backgrouud.
Electra.
Woe's me! No more of wailing! Women, flee!
Strange armèd men beside the dwelling there
Lie ambushed! They are rising from their lair.
Back by the road, all you. I will essay
The house; and may our good feet save us!
Orestes (between Electra and the hut).
Stay,
Unhappy woman! Never fear my steel.
Electra (in utter panic).
O bright Apollo! Mercy! See, I kneel;
Slay me not.
