Chorus
Unconsecrate it is, and cannot shield me.
The King of Argos
We will not yield thee to those falcons' greed.
Chorus
What help? more fierce they are than serpents fell.
The King of Argos
We spake thee fair—speak thou them fair in turn.
Chorus
What marvel that we loathe them, scared in soul?
The King of Argos
Awe towards a king should other fears transcend.
Chorus
Thus speak, thus act, and reassure my mind.
The King of Argos
Not long thy sire shall leave thee desolate.
But I will call the country's indwellers,
And with soft words th' assembly will persuade,
And warn your sire what pleadings will avail.
Therefore abide ye, and with prayer entreat
The country's gods to compass your desire;
The while I go, this matter to provide,
Persuasion and fair fortune at my side.
[Exit the King of Argos.