“My poor, poor children! Surely long ago
I have read your trouble. Stricken, well I know,
Ye all are, stricken sore: yet verily
Not one so stricken to the heart as I.“[[22]]
JOCASTA
Gertrude Demain Hammond, R.I.
There has appeared to him only one hope; and days before he had grasped at it. He had sent Creon to Apollo’s House in Delphi, to inquire of the god what great thing the king must do to save his people. When the answer comes, he vows that he will not flinch. Whatever task Apollo may command, no matter how bitter, it shall be performed.
Even while Œdipus speaks shouts are heard announcing Creon’s return; and presently he delivers before them all the answer of the god.
“Thus saith
Phoebus, our Lord and Seer, in clear command: