For I am come, as sacred, fearing God,
Bringing this people profit. And your lord,
When he shall come, whom ye your ruler call,290
Then thou shalt hear and know the whole. Meanwhile,
Be not thou found as base in anything.
Chor. I needs must feel some shrinking as I hear,
Old man, thy reasonings, for with no slight words
Have they been uttered. 'Tis enough for me
That they who rule us search the matter out.
Œdip. And where, my friends, is he who rules this land?
Chor. He keeps his father's city. But the scout
Who sent me here, is gone to summon him.
Œdip. And think ye he will any pity feel,
Or care for me, the blind one, and will come?300
Chor. Right sure am I, when once he hears thy name.
Œdip. And who is he that will report it to him?
Chor. The way is long; but market news is wont
To wander fast. And when he hears the news,
Be of good cheer, he 'll come. For know, old man,
Thy name has come to all men, and though slow
His speed at first, yet hearing, he will haste.
Œdip. And may he come with blessing to his country,
And to me also! Who that lives is found
Unfriendly to himself?
Antig. [Starting.] Zeus! What is this?
My father! whither shall I turn my thoughts?310
Œdip. What is 't, my child, Antigone?
Antig. I see
Advancing near us, mounted on a colt
Of Ætna's breed, a woman's form. Her head
