Page:Miscellanies - With a biographical sketch by Ralph Waldo Emerson and a general index to the writings. -- by Thoreau, Henry David.djvu/323

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PROMETHEUS BOUND OF ÆSCHYLUS
303

And now I go, and will endeavor,
If I can, to release thee from these sufferings.
But be thou quiet, nor too rudely speak.
Know'st thou not well, with thy superior wisdom, that
On a vain tongue punishment is inflicted?

Pr. I congratulate thee that thou art without blame,
Having shared and dared all with me;
And now leave off, and let it not concern thee.
For altogether thou wilt not persuade him, for he's not easily persuaded,
But take heed yourself lest you be injured by the way.

Oc. Far better thou art to advise those near
Than thyself; by deed and not by word I judge.
But me hastening by no means may est thou detain,
For I boast, I boast, this favor will Zeus
Grant me, from these sufferings to release thee.

Pr. So far I praise thee, and will never cease;
For zeal you nothing lack. But
Strive not; for in vain, naught helping
Me, thou 'lt strive, if aught to strive you wish.
But be thou quiet, holding thyself aloof,
For I would not, though I 'm unfortunate, that on this account
Evils should come to many.