Epeisodion 2
Oedipus
Only keep your own pledge good, and never will you say that in vain you welcomed Oedipus to dwell in this land—if indeed the gods do not deceive me.
625
Chorus
Lord, from the first this man has shown a
will to bring these words, or similar ones, to completion for our land.
630
Theseus
Who, then, would reject the goodwill of such a one? To whom, first, the hearth of a spear-friend is always available on our side, by reciprocal right; then too he has come as a suppliant to our gods,
paying no small recompense to this land and to me. In reverence for these claims, I will never spurn his favor, and I will establish a dwelling for him as a citizen in the land. And if it is the pleasure of the stranger to remain here, I will command you to
635
protect him; or, if it pleases him, to come with me. This choice or that, Oedipus, you may take; your desire will be mine.
640
Oedipus
O Zeus, may you be good to men such as these!
Theseus
What is your wish, then? Will you come to my house?
Oedipus
Yes, I would, if it were right. But this is the place—
Theseus
What will you do here? Speak, for I will not hinder you.
645
Oedipus
—Where I will conquer those who cast me out.
Theseus
The promised gift of your presence would be great.
Oedipus
It shall be, if you keep your pledge with me.
Theseus
Have courage concerning me; never will I betray you.
Oedipus
I will not bind you with an oath as if an evil man.
650
Theseus
Well, you would win nothing more than by my word.
Oedipus
What will you do, then?
Theseus
What is it that you fear?
Theseus
But these men here will see to that.
