Stasimon 5
[Episode]
Then, when the sacrifice was wholly burnt to ashes in the blazing flame, he offered such prayers as were fitting, that the army might win return; but Agamemnon sends me to tell you this,
Messenger
and say what heaven-sent luck is his, and how he has secured undying fame throughout the length of Hellas. Now I was there myself and speak as an eyewitness; without a doubt your child flew away to the gods. A truce then to your sorrowing, and cease to be angry with your husband;
1605
for the gods’ ways with man are not what we expect, and those whom they love, they keep safe; yes, for this day has seen your daughter dead and living.
1610
Chorus Leader
What joy to hear these tidings from the messenger! He tells you your child is living still, among the gods.
Clytemnestra
Which of the gods, my child, has stolen you? How am I to address you? How can I be sureBy omitting the stop after φῶ as Nauck edits, and making the sentence continuous, perhaps the simplest explanation of this passage is obtained. that this is not an idle tale told to cheer me, to make me cease my piteous lamentation for you?
1615
Chorus
See! king Agamemnon approaches,
to confirm this story for you.
1620
Agamemnon
Lady, we may be countedTo correct the scansion Hennann proposes ὀλβιζοίμεθ᾽ ἄν. happy, as far as concerns our daughter; for in truth she has fellowship with gods. But you must take this tenderνεαγενῆ, for which Porson gives εὐγενῆ to correct the metre. child and start for home, for the army is looking now to sail.
Fare you well! it is long before I shall greet you on my return from Troy; may it be well with you!
1625
Chorus
Son of Atreus, start for Phrygia’s land with joy and so return, I pray, after taking from Troy her fairest spoils.
