His curses dire and dark,

(Ah, bitter curses those!)

That they with spear in hand

Should one day share their father's wealth; and I

Fear now lest swift Erinnys should fulfil them.

Enter Messenger

Mess. Be of good cheer, ye maidens, mother-reared;

Our city has escaped the yoke of bondage,

790

The boasts of mighty men are fallen low,