21
Therefore this much I fain would gain of you,
That, if I find a way and a device 259 (260)
To recompense my husband for these wrongs,
And her he wed and him who gave his daughter,
Ye will keep counsel. For in other things
Is a woman full of fears and most ill-fit
For battles and to look upon the sword;
But come there treason to her bridal bed 265 (265)
There is no other mind more thirsts for blood.
Chorus.
This will I do. For righteously wilt thou
Avenge thyself upon thy spouse, Medea:
Nor marvel I that thou dost mourn thy fate.
But I see Creon, sovereign of this land, 270 (269)
Approach, a messenger of new resolves.
Creon.
Thee, sullen-browed and chafing at thy spouse,
Medea, I command that from this realm
Thou go an exile, taking thy two sons.
And linger not, for mine is the decree, 275 (274)
Nor will I enter in my house again
Till I have driven thee past this land's last bounds.
