Menelaus
You fly too readily into abusive talk.
[730]
For my part, since I have come to Phthia against my will, I shall not do anything demeaning nor will I have it done to me. For the present, since I do not have unlimited time, I will go home. There is a city not far off from Sparta which previously was friendly
[735]
but now is hostile. I mean to attack it as general and make it our subject. But when I have arranged matters there to my satisfaction, I shall return. Man to man with my son-in-law I shall instruct and be instructed.
[740]
And if he punishes her and in future shows moderation towards us, he shall receive moderation in return. But if he is angry, anger shall be his reward [and he shall get deeds successive to his deeds]. But as for your words, I bear them with patience.
[745]
For like a shadow that walks, you have a voice but are powerless to do anything but speak.Exit by Eisodos A Menelaus with his retinue.
Peleus
My son, take your place below my arm and lead, and you likewise, poor woman. For though you have run into a fierce storm, you have come to a harbor fanned by fair breezes.
Andromache
[750]
Old sir, may the gods grant blessing to you and to yours since you have saved this child and luckless me! But take care lest these men, crouching in ambush where the road is deserted, may take me off by force, seeing that you are old, I am weak,
[755]
and this boy a mere babe. Take this to heart so that we may not escape now only to be captured later!
Peleus
No cowardly woman-talk here, please! March on! Who will touch us? He shall smart for it that lays a hand on us! For by the gods' grace I rule over
[760]
a throng of cavalry and many hoplites in Phthia. And I am still upright on my feet and no grey-beard, as you suppose. If I once look at that sort of man, I will send him flying, old man though I am. Even an old man, if he be brave, is more than a match for many young men.
[765]
What use is bodily vigor if one is a coward?Exit by Eisodos A Peleus, Andromache, Molossus, and Servant.