vv. 352–363
OEDIPUS, KING OF THEBES
Speak word to me, nor yet to these who ring
Thy throne. Thou art thyself the unclean thing.
Oedipus.
Thou front of brass, to fling out injury
So wild! Dost think to bate me and go free?
Tiresias.
I am free. The strong truth is in this heart.
Oedipus.
What prompted thee? I swear ’twas not thine art.
Tiresias.
’Twas thou. I spoke not, save for thy command.
Oedipus.
Spoke what? What was it? Let me understand.
Tiresias.
Dost tempt me? Were my words before not plain!
Oedipus.
Scarce thy full meaning. Speak the words again.
Tiresias.
Thou seek’st this man of blood: Thyself art he.
Oedipus.
’Twill cost thee dear, twice to have stabbed at me!
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