Part 7 (1/2)

HERACLES.

Who is it that has died?

Thou weepest.

ADMETUS.

'Tis a woman. It doth take My memory back to her of whom we spake.

HERACLES.

A stranger, or of kin to thee?

ADMETUS.

Not kin, But much beloved.

HERACLES.

How came she to be in Thy house to die?

ADMETUS.

Her father died, and so She came to us, an orphan, long ago.

HERACLES (_as though about to depart_).

'Tis sad.

I would I had found thee on a happier day.

ADMETUS.

Thy words have some intent: what wouldst thou say?

HERACLES.

I must find harbour with some other friend.

ADMETUS.

My prince, it may not be! G.o.d never send Such evil!

HERACLES.

'Tis great turmoil, when a guest Comes to a mourning house.

ADMETUS.

Come in and rest.

Let the dead die!

HERACLES.

I cannot, for mere shame, Feast beside men whose eyes have tears in them.

ADMETUS.

The guest-rooms are apart where thou shalt be.

HERACLES.

Friend, let me go. I shall go gratefully.

ADMETUS.

Thou shalt not enter any door but mine.