And followed. I have sent Menoikeus’ son,
Creon, my own wife’s brother, forth alone
To Apollo’s House in Delphi, there to ask
What word, what deed of mine, what bitter task,
May save my city.
And the lapse of days
Reckoned, I can but marvel what delays
His journey. ’Tis beyond all thought that thus
He comes not, beyond need. But when he does,
Then call me false and traitor, if I flee
Back from whatever task God sheweth me.
Priest.
At point of time thou speakest. Mark the cheer
Yonder. Is that not Creon drawing near?
[They all crowd to gaze where Creon is approaching in the distance.
Oedipus.
O Lord Apollo, help! And be the star
That guides him joyous as his seemings are!
Priest.
Oh! surely joyous! How else should he bear
That fruited laurel wreathed about his hair?
Oedipus.
We soon shall know.—’Tis not too far for one
Clear-voiced.
(Shouting) Ho, brother! Prince! Menoikeus’ son,
What message from the God?
6
