THE BOOK WAS DRENCHED - OUDL Home

AGAMEMNON
Why dost thou turn thy back towards me and weep, refusing to say
what has happened, or who this is?
HECUBA (aside)
But should he count me as a slave and foe and spurn me from his knees,
I should but add to my anguish.
AGAMEMNON
I am no prophet born; wherefore, if I be not told, I cannot learn the
current of thy thoughts.
HECUBA (aside)
Can it be that in estimating this man's feelings I make him out too illdisposed,
when he is not really so?
AGAMEMNON
If thy wish really is that I should remain in ignorance, we are of one
mind; for I have no wish myself to listen.
HECUBA (aside)
Without his aid I shall not be able to avenge my children. Why do I
still ponder the matter? I must do and dare whether I win or lose. (Turning
to AGAMEMNON) O Agamemnon! by thy knees, by thy beard and
conquering hand I implore thee.
AGAMEMNON
What is thy desire? to be set free? that is easily done.
HECUBA
Not that; give me vengeance on the wicked, and evermore am I willing
to lead a life of slavery.
AGAMEMNON
Well, but why dost thou call me to thy aid?
HECUBA
'Tis a matter thou little reckest of, O king. Dost see this corpse, for
whom my tears now flow?
AGAMEMNON
I do; but what is to follow, I cannot guess.
HECUBA
He was my child in days gone by; I bore him in my womb.