Page:Masterpieces of Greek Literature (1902).djvu/129

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PROMETHEUS BOUND 99

Prometheus. No other — only what seems good to

ΠΙΜ.

Chorus. And how will it seem good ? what hope remains ? Seest thou not that thou hast sinned ? But that thou hast sinned 305

It glads me not to speak of, and grieves thee ; Then let it pass from both, and seek thyself Some outlet from distress.

Prometheus. It is in truth

An easy thing to stand aloof from pain, And lavish exhortation and advice 310

On one vexed sorely by it. I have known All in prevision. By my choice, my choice, I freely sinned, — I will confess my sin, — And, helping mortals, found mine own despair. I did not think indeed that I should pine 315

Beneath such pangs against such skyey rocks. Doomed to this drear hill, and no neighboring Of any life. But mourn not ye for griefs I bear to-day : hear rather, dropping down To the plain, how other woes creep on to me, 320

And learn the consummation of my doom. Beseech you, nymphs, beseech you, grieve for me Who now am grieving ; for Grief walks the earth. And sits down at the foot of each by turns.

Chorus. We hear the deep clash of thy words, 325 Prometheus, and obey.

And I spring with a rapid foot away

From the rushing car and the holy air, The track of bii'ds ;

And I drop to the rugged ground, and there 330 Await the tale of thy despair.