Chorus 2.
I heard the shield’s rattle, and spear clashed on spear
Came stunning my ear.
Tutti.
O Ares, that shines in the helmet of gold,[n9]
Thine own chosen city wilt thou behold
To slavery sold?
O Ares, Ares, wilt thou betray
Thy Theban home to-day?
III.
The Chorus crown the altars of the gods, and then, falling on their knees, sing the following Theban Litany, in one continuous chaunt.