let them perish both, and cast me forth,
That on some rock-girt island's dreary shore
I may atone my folly. Are they true,
And is this man indeed my dear Orestes,
My brother, long implor'd,--release us both,
And o'er us stretch the kind protecting arm,
Which long hath shelter'd me. My noble sire
Fell through his consort's guilt,--she by her son;
On him alone the hope of Atreus' race
Doth now repose. Oh, with pure heart and hands
Let me depart to expiate our house.
Yes, thou wilt keep thy promise; thou didst swear,
That were a safe return provided me,
I should be free to go. The hour is come.
A king doth never grant like common men,
Merely to gain a respite from petition;
Nor promise what he hopes will ne'er be claim'd.
Then first he feels his dignity complete
When he can make the long-expecting happy.

THOAS.
As fire opposes water, and doth seek
With hissing rage to overcome its foe,
So doth my anger strive against thy words.

IPHIGENIA.
Let mercy, like the consecrated flame
Of silent sacrifice, encircl'd round
With songs of gratitude, and joy, and praise,
Above the tumult gently rise to heaven.

THOAS.
How often hath this voice assuag'd my soul!

IPHIGENIA.
Extend thy hand to me in sign of peace.

THOAS.
Large thy demand within so short a time.

IPHIGENIA.
Beneficence doth no reflection need.

THOAS.
'Tis needed oft, for evil springs from good.

IPHIGENIA.
'Tis doubt which good doth oft to evil turn.
Consider not: act as thy feelings prompt thee.

SCENE IV.

ORESTES (_armed_). IPHIGENIA. THOAS.

ORESTES, _addressing his followers_.
Redouble your exertions! hold them back!
Few moments will suffice; retain your ground,
And keep a passage open to the ship
For me and for my sister.
_To_ IPHIGENIA, _without perceiving_ THOAS.
Come with speed!
We are betray'd,--brief time remains for flight.

THOAS.
None in my presence with impunity
His naked weapon wears.

IPHIGENIA.