Part 9 (2/2)

PYLADES.

Men that have found the arms of those they love Would fain long linger in the joy thereof.

But we, Orestes, have no respite yet For tears or tenderness. Let us forget All but the one word Freedom, calling us To live, not die by altars barbarous.

Think not of joy in this great hour, nor lose Fortune's first hold. Not thus do wise men use.

ORESTES.

I think that Fortune watcheth o'er our lives, Surer than we. But well said: he who strives Will find his G.o.ds strive for him equally.

IPHIGENIA.

He shall not check us so, nor baffle me Of this one word. How doth Electra move Through life? Ye twain are all I have to love.

ORESTES.

A wife and happy: this man hath her hand.

IPHIGENIA.

And what man's son is he, and of what land?

ORESTES.

Son of King Strophios he is called of men.

IPHIGENIA.

Whom Atreus' daughter wed?--My kinsman then.

ORESTES.

Our cousin, and my true and only friend.

IPHIGENIA.

He was not born, when I went to mine end.

ORESTES.

No, Strophios had no child for many a year.

IPHIGENIA.

I give thee hail, husband of one so dear.

ORESTES.

My more than kinsman, saviour in my need!

IPHIGENIA.

But mother ... Speak: how did ye dare that deed?

ORESTES.

Our father's wrongs ... But let that story be.

IPHIGENIA.

And she to slay her king! What cause had she?

ORESTES.

Forget her! ... And no tale for thee it is.

IPHIGENIA.

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