EL. My lesson is already learnt: at length
I am schooled to labour with the stronger will.
[The body of CLYTEMNESTRA is disclosed under a veil: ORESTES standing by
AEG. Zeus! Divine envy surely hath laid low
The form I here behold. But if the truth
Provoke Heaven’s wrath, be it unexpressed.—Unveil!
Off with all hindrance, that mine eye may see,
And I may mourn my kinsman as I should.
OR. Thyself put forth thy hand. Not mine but thine
To look and speak with kindness to this corse.
AEG. I will, for thou advisest well; but thou,
Call Clytemnestra, if she be within. [AEGISTHUS lifts the shroud
OR. She is beside thee, gaze not otherwhere.
AEG. What do I see! oh!
OR. Why so strange? Whom fear you?
AEG. Who are the men into whose midmost toils
All hapless I am fallen?
OR. Ha! knowest thou not
[Thou hast been taking] living men for dead?
AEG. I understand that saying. Woe is me!
I know, Orestes’ voice addresseth me.