To sate his curséd wrath; and hesitates

Who first shall feel the knife, and who shall die

The next in order. 'Tis of no concern,

But still he hesitates, and gloats awhile715

In planning how to do the horrid deed.

Chorus: Who then is first to die?

Messenger: First place he gives

(Lest you should think him lacking in respect)

Unto his grandsire's namesake, Tantalus.

Chorus: What spirit, what demeanor showed the youth?