Chorus Behold, new ills of heavy fate have newly come from the blind stranger, unless, perhaps, fate is finding its goal. I cannot say that a purpose of the divinities is ever vain. Time sees all things forever, and raises up some things, then on the next day raises others back up again. The sky resounds! Zeus!
Oedipus Children, children! If there is any man still here, send him forth to bring back Theseus, excellent in all respects.
Antigone And what, father, is the purpose of your summons?
Oedipus This winged thunder of Zeus will soon lead me to Hades. So send someone with speed.
Chorus Listen! With a louder noise this one crashes down unspeakably, hurled by Zeus! The hair of my head stands up for fear, my soul is dismayed; for again the lightning flashes in the sky. What end will it release? I fear it, for never does it fly forth in vain, or without serious results. O great Sky! O Zeus!
Oedipus Children, the appointed end of life has reached this man; he can turn from it no more.
Antigone How do you know? By what means do you understand this?
Oedipus I know it well. But let some one go, I pray you, as quickly as he can, and bring back the lord of this land.
Chorus Look! Look! Once again the piercing din is around us! Be merciful, divinity, be merciful, if you are bringing anything of gloom for the land which is our mother! May I find you well disposed, and may I not, because I have cared for a man accursed, somehow obtain a favor without profit! Lord Zeus, to you I cry!
Oedipus Is the man near? Will he find me still alive, children, and master of my senses?
Antigone And what is the pledge that you would like to have firm in your mind?
Oedipus In return for his benefits, I would grant him the fulfillment of the favor that I promised.
Chorus
Hurry, my son, come to us! If you chance to be in the glade sacrificing an ox to the sea-god Poseidon, then come! For the stranger thinks you worthy, you and your city and your friends, to receive just return for benefits. Hasten quickly, lord!
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