They seek their sire: and still I put them by
With fables feigned; yet wondering start, whene'er
A door sounds; and unto their feet leap all,
As looking to embrace their father's knee.
What hope or path of safety, ancient, now 80
Devisest thou?—for unto thee I look.
We cannot quit the land's bounds unperceived,
For at all outlets guards too strong are set:
Nor linger hopes of safety any more
In friends. What counsel then thou hast soe'er, 85
Now speak it out, lest death be at the door,
And we, who are helpless, do but peize the time.
Amphitryon.
Daughter, not easily, without deep thought,
May one, though ne'er so earnest, counsel here.[1]
Megara.
Dost seek more grief, or lov'st thou life so well? 90
Amphitryon.
In this life I rejoice: I love its hopes.
Megara.
And I: yet for things hopeless none may look.
Amphitryon.
Even in delay is salve for evils found.
