Stasimon 4
[Episode]
I think I have it, brother, a means of safety for you, and for him and thirdly for myself.
Orestes
You mean divine providence. But why do I say that?
Since I know the natural shrewdness of your heart.
1180
Electra
Listen to me now; and you (to Pylades) pay attention also.
Orestes
Speak; the prospect of good news holds a certain pleasure.
Electra
You know Helen’s daughter? Of course you do.
Orestes
I know her, Hermione, whom my mother reared.
Electra
She has gone to Clytemnestra’s tomb.
1185
Orestes
To do what? What hope are you hinting at?
Electra
She was going to pour a libation over the tomb of our mother.
Orestes
Well, how does what you have said lead to our safety?
Electra
Seize her as a hostage on her way back.
Orestes
What good can your suggested remedy do us three friends?
1190
Electra
If, after Helen’s slaughter, Menelaus tries to do anything to you or to Pylades and me—for this bond of friendship is wholly one—say that you will kill Hermione; you must draw your sword and hold it to the maiden’s throat.
If Menelaus, when he sees Helen fallen in her blood, tries to save you to insure the girl’s life, allow him to take his daughter to his arms; but if he makes no effort to curb the angry outburst and leaves you to die, then cut the maiden’s throat.
1195
And I think if he puts in a mighty appearance at first, he will calm down in time; for he is not bold or brave by nature. That is my line of defense for our safety. My speech is over.
1200
Orestes
O you that have the spirit of a man,
though your body shows you to be a woman, how far more worthy you are to live than to die! Pylades, you will lose such a woman to your sorrow, or if you live, you will have a blessed marriage.
1205
Pylades
Then may it be so, and may she come to the city of Phocis
with all the honors of a happy wedding.
1210
