CHORUS.
To one who walketh warily his words
Commend themselves; swift counsels are not sure.
OEDIPUS.
When with swift strides the stealthy plotter stalks
I must be quick too with my counterplot.
To wait his onset passively, for him
Is sure success, for me assured defeat.
CREON.
What then’s thy will? To banish me the land?
OEDIPUS.
I would not have thee banished, no, but dead,
That men may mark the wages envy reaps.
CREON.
I see thou wilt not yield, nor credit me.
OEDIPUS.
[None but a fool would credit such as thou.][3]
CREON.
Thou art not wise.
OEDIPUS.
Wise for myself at least.
CREON.
Why not for me too?
OEDIPUS.
Why for such a knave?