IPH. May I never living set footprint in Argos.
PYL. Hear now then a matter which we have passed by.
IPH. There will be opportunity hereafter, if matters stand aright.
PYL. Grant me this one exception. If the vessel suffer any harm, and the letter be lost[[94]] in the storm, together with the goods, and I save my person only, that this mine oath be no longer valid.[[95]]
IPH. Knowest thou what I will do?[[96]] for the many things contained in the folds of the letter bear opportunity for many things.[[97]] I will tell you in words all that you are to convey to my friends, for this plan is safe. If indeed thou preservest the letter, it will itself silently tell the things written, but if these letters be lost at sea, saving thy body, thou wilt preserve my message.
PYL. Thou hast spoken well on behalf of the Gods[[98]] and of myself. But tell me to whom at Argos I must needs bear these epistles, and what hearing from thee, I must tell.
IPH. Bear word to Orestes, the son of Agamemnon, (reading) "she[[99]] that was sacrificed at Aulis gives this commission, Iphigenia alive, but no longer alive as far as those in Argos are concerned."
OR. But where is she? Does she come back again having died?
IPH. She, whom you see. Do not confuse me with speaking. (Continues reading) "Bear me to Argos, my brother, before I die, remove me from this barbarian land and the sacrifices of the Goddess, in which I have the office of slaying strangers."
OR. Pylades, what shall I say? where shall we be found to be?[[100]]