Part 13 (1/2)

For this thou has brought the Image to the sun?

IPHIGENIA.

The fire of heaven can cleanse all malison.

THOAS.

How didst thou first hear of their deed of shame?

IPHIGENIA.

When the Image hid its eyes, I questioned them.

THOAS.

Good. Greece hath taught thee many a subtle art.

IPHIGENIA.

Ah, they too had sweet words to move my heart.

THOAS.

Sweet words? How, did they bring some news of Greece?

IPHIGENIA.

Orestes, my one brother, lives in peace.

THOAS.

Surely! Good news to make thee spare their lives ...

IPHIGENIA.

My father too in Argos lives and thrives.

THOAS.

While thou didst think but of the G.o.ddess' laws!

IPHIGENIA.

Do I not hate all Greeks? Have I not cause?

THOAS.

Good cause. But now ... What service should be paid?

IPHIGENIA.

The Law of long years needs must be obeyed.

THOAS.

To work then, with thy sword and handwas.h.i.+ng!

IPHIGENIA.

First I must shrive them with some cleansing thing.

THOAS.

What? Running water, or the sea's salt spray?

IPHIGENIA.