The eager war-cry, the sharp cry of fear,

As near still it rolls, and more near.

II.
The Chorus become more and more agitated. They speak one to another in short hurried exclamations, and in great confusion.

Chorus 1.

To which of the gods and the goddesses now

Shall I pay my vow?

Chorus 2.

Shall I cling to the altar, and kneeling embrace

The guardian gods of the Theban race?

Tutti.