Thou sacrifice for me—I know not how— 1125
The wonted tenth-moon offerings for the babe,
Skilless am I, who have borne no child ere this.
Klytemnestra.
This were her task, who in thy travail helped.
Electra.
Unhelped I travailed, bore alone my babe.
Klytemnestra.
Dwell'st thou from friends and neighbours so remote? 1130
Electra.
The poor—none careth to win these for friends!
Klytemnestra.
I enter, to the Gods to pay the dues
For a son's time accomplished. Having shown thee
That grace, I pass afield, to where my lord
Worships the Nymphs. This chariot ye my maids 1135
Lead hence, and stall my steeds. Soon as ye deem
That this my service to the Gods is done,
Attend. My spouse too must my presence grace.
Electra.
Pass in to my poor house; and have a care
The smoke-grimed beams besmirch not thine attire. 1140
The Gods' due sacrifice there shalt thou offer.
[Klytemnestra enters hut.
The maund is dight, and whetted is the knife
Which slew the bull by whose side thou shalt lie
