HERDSMAN.
Nay, I confessed I gave it long ago.
OEDIPUS.
Whence came it? was it thine, or given to thee?
HERDSMAN.
I had it from another, ’twas not mine.
OEDIPUS.
From whom of these our townsmen, and what house?
HERDSMAN.
Forbear for God’s sake, master, ask no more.
OEDIPUS.
If I must question thee again, thou’rt lost.
HERDSMAN.
Well then—it was a child of Laius’ house.
OEDIPUS.
Slave-born or one of Laius’ own race?
HERDSMAN.
Ah me!
I stand upon the perilous edge of speech.
OEDIPUS.
And I of hearing, but I still must hear.