Leader of the Chorus: I see that she breathes forth anger; but whether
justice be with her, for this she seems to care no longer.
Clytemnestra: (to the Chorus) And what manner of care do I need to
use against her, who hath thus insulted a mother, and this at her
ripe age? Thinkest thou not that she would go forward to any deed,
without shame?
Electra: Now be assured that I do feel shame for this, though thou
believe it not; I know that my behaviour is unseemly, and becomes
me ill. But then the enmity on thy part, and thy treatment, compel
me in mine own despite to do thus; for base deeds are taught by base.
Clytemnestra: Thou brazen one! Truly I and my sayings and my deeds
give thee too much matter for words.
Electra: The words are thine, not mine; for thine is the action; and
the acts find the utterance.
Clytemnestra: Now by our lady Artemis, thou shalt not fail to pay
for this boldness, so soon as Aegisthus returns.
Electra: Lo, thou art transported by anger, after granting me free
speech, aid hast no patience to listen.
Studies
