Epeisodion 5
Peleus
Ye dames of Phthia, answer my questions. I heard a vague rumour that the daughter of Menelaus had left these halls
and fled; so now am I come in hot haste to learn if this be true; for it is the duty of those who are at home to labour in the interests of their absent friends.
1050
Chorus
Thou hast heard aright, O Peleus; ill would it become me to hide the evil case in which I now find myself;
our queen has fled and left these halls.
1055
Peleus
What was she afraid of? explain that to me.
Chorus
She was fearful her lord would cast her out
Peleus
In returnNauck reads ἀντίποινα for MSS ἀντὶ παιδὸς. for plotting his child’s death? surely not?
Chorus
Yea, and she was afraid of yon captive.
Peleus
With whom did she leave the house? with her father?
1060
Chorus
The son of Agamemnon came and took her hence.
Peleus
What view hath he to furtherNauck προτείνων. thereby? Will he marry her?
Chorus
Yes, and he is plotting thy grandson’s death.
Peleus
From an ambuscade, or meeting him fairly face to face?
Chorus
In the holy place of Loxias, leagued with Delphians.
1065
Peleus
God help us! This is an immediate danger. Hasten one of you with all speed to the Pythian altar and tell our friends there what has happened here, ere Achilles’ son be slain by his enemies. Enter a Messenger.
Messenger
Woe worth the day! what evil tidings have I brought for thee, old sire, and for all who love my master! woe is me!
1070
Peleus
Alas! my prophetic soul hath a presentiment.
Messenger
Aged Peleus, hearken! Thy grandson is no more; so grievously is he smitten
by the men of Delphi and the strangeri.e. Orestes. from Mycenae.
1075
Chorus
Ah! what wilt thou do, old man? Fall not; uplift thyself.
