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496 Sophocles [1171-1192]
looked for prosperous days; but the meaning, it seems, was only that I
should die; for toil comes no more to the dead.
Since, then, my son, those words are clearly finding their fulfilment,
thou, on thy part, must lend me thine aid. Thou must not delay, and so
provoke me to bitter speech: thou must consent and help with a good
grace, as one who hath learned that best of laws, obedience to a sire.
HYLLUS
Yea, father,—though I fear the issue to which our talk hath brought
me,—I will do thy good pleasure.
HERACLES
First of all, lay thy right hand in mine.
HYLLUS
For what purpose dost thou insist upon his pledge?
HERACLES
Give thy hand at once—disobey me notl
HYLLUS
Lo, there it is: thou shalt not be gainsaid.
HERACLES
Now, swear by the head of Zeus my sirel
HYLLUS
To do what deed? May this also be told?
HERACLES
To perform for me the task that I shall enjoin.
HYLLUS
I swear it, with Zeus for witness of the oath.
HERACLES
And pray that, if thou break this oath, thou mayest suffer.
HYLLUS
I shall not suffer, for I shall keep it:—yet so I pray.
HERACLES
Well, thou knowest the summit of Oeta, sacred to Zeus?
HYLLUS
Ay; I have often stood at his altar on that height.