As old men failing
They came to Sparta;
All unavailing
Their coming was.
Helen was gone
And none knew whither,
To search for peace
Or to find release.
Over the seas
In lands and islands
Nireus sought her,
But could not find.
For the gods retire
When men desire,
Though it burn like fire
And make men blind.
THIRD ACT
Prophet.
Come, you avenging Powers, who with swords
Smite at the bidding of your overlords;
Come, all you threatening things, who, with slant eyes,
Wait to snatch spirits in the mood unwise;
Come, eagle spirits, that do drink man’s blood,
Hurry on smeared wings hither to your food:
I, who am Prophet, give you King and Queen.
Enter Ashobal.
Ashobal.
What are you raging for? Be silent, Prophet,
The King is coming hither.
Prophet.