Deianeira
Oh wretched that I am, where do I stand?
What secret grief awaits me in my house
now, in my misery? Was this girl really
without a name, as Lichas swore to me?
Messenger
No, she is glorious in name and birth.
380Eurytus was her father; and her name,
Iole. This was she whose birth the herald
told nothing of, because he had not asked!
Chorus
May the false man who fashions evil secrets
perish before all other wicked men!
Deianeira
What must I do my friends? These words which I
have heard have frightened me out of my senses.
Chorus
Go question Lichas, for he may reply
truthfully if you press him to make answer.
Deianeira
Yes, I will go; your words are spoken wisely.
Messenger
390What shall I do? Remain here or depart?
Deianeira
Stay - for without my calling him the man
is coming from the house of his own will.