[Enter Iphigenia.
Wherefore delay the sacrifice; inform me!
Iphigenia: The goddess for reflection grants thee time.
Thoas: To thee this time seems also opportune.
Iphigenia: Are we not bound to render the distress'd
The gracious kindness from the gods received?
Thou know'st we are, and yet wilt thou compel me?
Thoas: Obey thine office, not the king.
Iphigenia: Oh, couldst thou see the struggle of my soul,
Courageously toward the first attack
Of an unhappy doom which threatens me;
Must I implore a miracle from heaven?
Thoas: Extravagant thy interest in the fate
Of these two strangers. Tell me who they are.
Iphigenia: They are—they seem, at least—I think them Greeks.
Thoas: Thy countrymen; no doubt they have renewed
The pleasing picture of return.