190
EURIPIDES.
Electra.
I stand, as in thy power;—the stronger thou.
Orestes.
I come to bring thee tidings of thy brother.
Electra.
Friend—friend!—and liveth he, or is he dead?
Orestes.
He liveth: first the good news would I tell. 230
Electra.
Blessings on thee, for meed of words most sweet!
Orestes.
This blessing to us twain I give to share.
Electra.
What land hath he for weary exile's home?
Orestes.
Outcast, he claims no city's citizenship.
Electra.
Not—surely not in straits for daily bread? 235
Orestes.
That hath he: yet the exile helpless is.
Electra.
And what the message thou hast brought from him?