Epeisodion 3
Electra
You make these admonitions like one who will not assist me.
1025
Chrysothemis
I will not, for he who sets hand to the deed is likely also to suffer disaster.
Electra
I admire you for your prudence. For your cowardice I hate you.
Chrysothemis
I will listen no less calmly when you praise me.
Electra
Never fear to suffer that from me, at least.
Chrysothemis
There is time enough in the future to decide that.
1030
Electra
Leave! You have no power to help.
Chrysothemis
No, I have it, but you lack the ability to listen and learn.
Electra
Go, reveal everything to your mother!
Chrysothemis
But, again, I do not hate you with so great a hate.
Electra
Yet know at least to what dishonor you drive me.
1035
Chrysothemis
Dishonor, no! It is forethought for you.
Electra
Am I bound, then, to follow your rule of right?
Chrysothemis
Yes, for when you are sensible, then at that time you shall lead the both of us.
Electra
How terrible it is that one who speaks so well should be so wrong!
Chrysothemis
You have well described the fault to which you devotedly cling.
1040
Electra
What? Do you think that my words are not the words of Justice?
Chrysothemis
But sometimes even Justice herself causes harm.
Electra
I do not care to live where that attitude is lawful.
Chrysothemis
Well, if you must do this, you will commend me yet.
Electra
And do it I will, not a bit disturbed by you.
1045
Chrysothemis
Is this true? You will not reconsider your plan?
Electra
No, for no enemy is more damaging than bad advice.
Chrysothemis
You seem to agree with nothing that I say.
Electra
My resolve is not new, but long since fixed.
Chrysothemis
Then I will go. You cannot be brought to approve my words, nor I your conduct.
1050
Electra
No, go inside. I will never come after you, even though you may strongly desire it, since it is great folly even to attempt a useless quest.
Chrysothemis
Well, if you seem to think straight in your own eyes, may you go on thinking so. Eventually, when you have fallen into trouble, you will approve my advice. Exit Chrysothemis into the house.
1055
