Leader: Thy action then is clear; leave thy seat at the tomb.
Helen: To what words or advice art thou leading up?
Leader: Go in and question the daughter of the ocean Nereid, who knoweth
all things, even Theonoe, whether thy husband is still alive, or whether
he hath left the light of day; and when thou knowest for certain,
be glad or sorrowful, as fits thy fortune. But before thou hast right
knowledge, what shall sorrow avail thee? Nay, hearken to me; leave
this tomb and seek the maiden's company, that she may tell thee the
truth, for from her shalt thou learn all. If thou abide here in this
seat, what prospect hast thou? And I will myself go in with thee,
and with thee inquire of the maiden's oracles; for 'tis a woman's
bounden duty to share a sister's trouble. (The following lines are
chanted responsively by Helen and the Chorus.)
Helen: Kind friends, I welcome your advice. Come in, come in, that
ye may learn the result of my struggle within the palace.
Chorus: Thy invitation comes to very willing ears.
Studies
