THE MADNESS OF HERAKLES.
373
Megara.
Forlorn of friends, we heard that thou hadst died.
Herakles.
Wherefore came on you this despair of me?
Megara.
The heralds of Eurystheus published this.
Herakles.
But why did ye forsake mine home and hearth?
Megara.
By force: thy father from his bed was flung. 555
Herakles.
Had he no shame to outrage these grey hairs?
Megara.
Shame?—from that Goddess far his dwelling is!
Herakles.
So poor of friends am I when far away!
Megara.
Friends!—what friends hath a man unfortunate?
Herakles.
Scorned they the fights with Minyans I endured? 560
Megara.
Friendless, I tell thee again, misfortune is.
