Apollo.
But I will aid, will save, the fugitive;
For dire with men and gods the suppliant's wrath,
If I his cause should willingly betray.
[The scene changes to Athens, and the temple of Apollo is transformed into the temple of Athena Polias on the Acropolis.]
Orestes, embracing the sacred image of Pallas.
Athena, Queen, at Loxias' hest I'm come;
A wretched outcast graciously receive,
Not blood-polluted, nor with hands unclean,
For blunted now and worn the edge of crime
At other homes, and in the paths of men. 230
Holding my course alike o'er land and sea,
Faithful to Loxias' word oracular,
I to thy fane am come, thy image, goddess,
Here keeping guard, I will abide my doom.
[Enter the Leader of the Chorus, followed by the Furies. As they advance they spread themselves out towards both sides of the orchestra.]
Leader.
'Tis well; sure token this, the man is here.
Follow the leading of this voiceless guide;
For still we track, as hound the wounded fawn,
By blood and reeking drops, our destined prey;
Spent with full many man-outwearing toils,
