Some count me idle; some, o'erbusy; some
Unsocial:—yet not over-wise am I. 305
And thou, thou fear'st me, lest I mar thy music.
Not such am I—O Kreon, dread not me—
That against princes I should dare transgress.
How hast thou wronged me? Thou hast given thy child
To whom so pleased thee. But—I hate mine husband: 310
And, doubtless, this in prudence hast thou done?
Nay, but I grudge not thy prosperity.
Wed ye, and prosper. But in this your land
Still let me dwell: for I, how wronged soe'er,
Will hold my peace, o'ermastered by the strong. 315
Kreon.
Soft words to hear: but lurks mine heart within
Dread lest thou plottest mischief all the while;
And all the less I trust thee than before.
The vehement-hearted woman—yea, or man—
Is easier watched-for than the silent-cunning. 320
But forth with all speed: plead me pleadings none.
For this is stablished: no device hast thou
To bide with us, who art a foe to me.
Medea.
Nay,—by thy knees, and by the bride, thy child!
Kreon.
Thou wastest words; thou never shalt prevail. 325
Medea.
Wilt drive me forth, respecting nought my prayers?
