Perde 4
[Textpart 1]
If a mortal being has aught of misery, through which, miserable creature, to be wretched from the heart, that same do I experience, for whom full many a woe unites in the same spot, which, all, at the same instant are beating against my breast. A multitude of troubles keep me in suspense.
PHILIPPA
Poverty and misery alarm the thoughts of my heart; nor have I anywhere a spot of safety where to fix my hopes; in such a way has my daughter fallen into the power of the enemy Into the power of the enemy: Though this has happened probably some time since, Philippa has not had an opportunity till now of coming in search of her daughter, by reason of the continuance of war. As soon as peace is made, she repairs to Athens,; nor do I know where she now is.
530
PERIPHIANES
Who is this woman coming from a distance with a breast filled with alarms, and who thus bewails her lot?
PHILIPPA
It was told me that Periphanes was living in this neighbourhood.
PERIPHIANES
She’s mentioning me; need of hospitality has befallen her, I suppose.
535
PHILIPPA
I would be very willing to give a reward to any one who would point me out that man, or where he dwells.
PERIPHIANES
I recognize her; for I think I have seen her before; where, I know not. Is it, or is it not she, whom my mind suspects her to be?
PHILIPPA
Good Gods! I have seen this person before!
PERIPHIANES
It surely is she, a poor woman whom I remember having an intrigue with at Epidaurus.
540
PHILIPPA
Surely it is he, who at Epidaurus first violated my maiden modesty.
PERIPHIANES
She who had the daughter by me whom I’ve now got at home.
PHILIPPA
What if I accost him?
PERIPHIANES
I don’t know whether to make up to her.
PHILIPPA
But if it is the man, as length of years renders me doubtful—
PERIPHIANES
Length of time renders my mind uncertain. But if it is she, whom with some doubt I conjecture it to be, I’ll accost her circumspectly.
545
PHILIPPA
A woman’s artfulness must be employed by me.
PERIPHIANES
I’ll address her.
PHILIPPA
I’ll bring my powers of conversation to bear against him.
PERIPHIANES
Health to you!
