Chorus You are worthy of compassion, Oedipus, both you and these maidens. And since to this plea you append your power to save our land, I wish to advise you for your advantage.
Oedipus Dearest friends, be my patrons, and I will bring everything to completion.
Chorus Then make atonement to these divinities, to whom you have come first, and on whose ground you have trespassed.
Oedipus With what rites? Instruct me, strangers.
Chorus First, from an ever-flowing spring bring sacred drink-offerings, borne in ritually pure hands.
Oedipus And when I have gotten this unmixed draught?
Chorus There are bowls, the work of a skilled craftsman; crown their edges and the handles at either side.
Oedipus With olive branches, or woollen cloths, or in what way?
Chorus Take the freshly-shorn wool of a ewe-lamb.
Oedipus Good; and then to what last rite shall I proceed?
Chorus Pour the drink-offerings, with your face to the dawn.
Oedipus Shall I pour them with these vessels of which you speak?
Chorus Yes, in three streams; but the last vessel—
Oedipus With what shall I fill this, before I set it down? Teach me this also.
Chorus With water and honey; but add no wine.
Oedipus And when the ground under the dark shade has drunk these?
Chorus Three times lay on it nine branches of olive with both your hands, and meanwhile make this prayer.
Oedipus I wish to hear this prayer; it is the most important part.
Chorus We call them Eumenides, so that with well-wishing power they may receive the suppliant as his saviors. Let this be your prayer, or of whoever prays for you. Speak inaudibly, and do not lift up your voice; then depart, without looking behind. If you should do this, I would be bold enough to come to your aid; but otherwise, stranger, I would fear for you.
Oedipus Daughters, do you hear these strangers who dwell nearby?
Antigone We have listened. Tell us what to do.
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