O sorely-vexing god,

How hast thou trampled ’neath no gentle foot

The Persian race!

Atossa.

Woe’s me! the army’s lost.

O dreamy shapes night wandering, too clearly

Your prophecy spoke truth! But you, good Seniors,

Sorry expounders though ye be, in one thing

I will obey. I will go pray the gods,

As ye advised; then gifts I will present