Once consort, now the mother of Persia's god art thou,
Unless our ancient fortune abandons now the host. 160
Atossa.
Therefore I come forsaking our gold-tricked palace halls,
The common nuptial chamber, Darius' and mine own.
Me too at heart care rendeth: my thoughts to you I'll speak,
Being by no means fearless touching myself, O friends,
Lest mighty wealth retreating, o'erturn with foot of haste,
Fortune which great Darius not without Heav'n upreared.
Hence care, all words surpassing, twofold my bosom rends,
For small the honour yielded to wealth, if men be lost,
And light to strength proportioned, shines not where riches fail.
Our wealth may none disparage, but for our Eye we fear, 170
For I the master's presence esteem the eye of home.
Wherefore since Fate hath ordered that thus affairs should stand,
Be my advisors, Persians, mine aged, trusty, friends;
For all my hope of counsel is centred now in you.
