Already at the gates men brag of rout.

Eteoc. First, the great Onca-Pallas, dwelling nigh

Our city's gates, and hating man's bold pride,

Shall ward him from her nestlings like a snake

Of venom dread; and next Hyperbios,

The stalwart son of Œnops, has been chosen,

500

A hero 'gainst this hero, willing found

To try his destiny at Fortune's hest.

No fault has he in form, or heart, or arms;