Prologos
Hyllus
he toiled as a slave to a Lydian woman.
70
Deianeira
If he endured even that, then one might believe any and all rumors.
Hyllus
Well, he has been released from that service, as I hear.
Deianeira
Where, then, is he reported to be now—alive, or dead?
Hyllus
He is waging or yet planning a war,
they say, upon Euboea, the realm of Eurytus.
75
Deianeira
Are you aware, my son, that he has left with me sure oracles concerning that land?
Hyllus
What are they, mother? I do not know the oracles you mean.
Deianeira
They read that either he shall meet the end of his life,
or, after taking on this contest, he shall thereafter, at least, enjoy a happy life for its duration. And so, my child, when his fate is thus trembling in the balance, will you not go to assist him? For we are saved,
80
if he finds safety, or we perish along with him.
85
Hyllus
I will go, Mother. Had I known the substance of these prophecies, I would have long been at his side. As it was, my father’s usual good fortune did not allow me to fear for him, nor to be overly anxious.
Now that I have the knowledge, I will spare no pains to learn the whole truth in this matter.
90
Deianeira
Go, then, my son. For prosperity yields advantage even for him who learns of it late. Exeunt Hyllus, on one side, and the Nurse into the house.
