To Earth and to the Manes. I will offer,
The sacred cake to appease them. For the past,
’Tis past beyond all change; but hope may be
To make the gods propitious for the future.
Meanwhile your counsel in this need I crave;
A faithful man is mighty in mischance.
My son, if he shall come ere I return,
Cheer him with friendly words, and see him safe,
Lest to this ill some worser woe be added. [Exit.
Chorus.