To guard the life of kings; for none lament

The death of him whose safety breedeth fear.

Creon: Our care for him a greater fear removed.

Oedipus: What fear so great that duty to prevent?245

Creon: The Sphinx and her accurséd riddle's threats.

Oedipus: Then now at heaven's command shall be atoned

That impious deed.

Whoever of the gods

Dost look with kindly eye upon our realm;

And thou, whose hand doth guide the rolling sphere;