Epeisodion 4
Oedipus
both to you yourself and to this land; for among you, above all mankind, I have found piety, the spirit of decency, and lips that tell no lie. I know these things, and I repay them with these words; for what I have, I have through you, and no one else.
1125
Stretch out to me your right hand, lord, that I may touch it; and if it is right, let me kiss your cheek. But what am I saying? Wretched as I have become, how could I wish you to touch a man in whom every stain of evils has made its dwelling?
1130
I will not touch you—nor will I allow it, if you do consent. They alone, who know them, can share these burdens. Receive my greeting where you stand, and in the future too give me your righteous care, as you have given it up to this hour.
1135
Theseus
I feel no amazement, if you have had a lengthy conversation
from joy in these children, or if your first concern has been for their words rather than for me. Indeed, there is nothing to vex me in that. Not with words so much as with deeds would I add luster to my life. You have this proof:
1140
I have cheated you in none of my sworn promises, old man. Here am I, with the maidens living, uninjured by those threats. As to how the struggle was won, what need have I vainly to boast of what you will learn from these two when you are together?
1145
But there is a matter that has just presented itself to me, as I came here. Give me your counsel regarding it; for, though it is small, it is food for wonder. And mortal man must consider nothing beneath his concern.
1150
Oedipus
What is it, son of Aegeus? Tell me; I myself know nothing of what you inquire.
1155
Theseus
They say a man—not from your city, yet of your race—has somehow thrown himself down, as a suppliant, at our altar of Poseidon, where I was sacrificing when I first set out here.
Oedipus
What land does he come form? What does he desire by his supplication?
1160
Theseus
I know one thing only: they tell me he asks to speak briefly with you, a thing of no great burden.
Oedipus
On what topic? That suppliant state is of no small account.
Theseus
He asks, they say, no more than that he may confer with you,
and return unharmed from his journey here.
1165
Oedipus
Who can he be that implores the god in this way?
Theseus
Consider whether there is anyone in your race at Argos, who might desire this favor from you.
Oedipus
Dearest friend, say no more!
Oedipus
Do not ask me for—
1170
Theseus
For what? Speak!
1170
