Second Semi-Chorus: Dost speak of issues of the sword, or interchange
of words?
First Semi-Chorus: That last were gain indeed; but if the carnage
of battle, fighting, and the noise of beaten breasts again be heard
in the land, what, alas! will be said of me, who am the cause thereof?
Second Semi-Chorus: Yet may fate again bring low the brilliant victor;
'tis this brave thought that twines about my heart.
First Semi-Chorus: Thou speak'st of the gods as if they were just.
Second Semi-Chorus: For who but they allot whate'er betides?
First Semi-Chorus: I see much at variance in their dealings with men.
Second Semi-Chorus: The former fear hath warped thy judgment. Vengeance
calls vengeance forth; slaughter calls for slaughter, but the gods
give respite from affliction, holding in their own hands each thing's
allotted end.
Studies
