Oedipus
I will start afresh, and once more make dark things plain. Worthily has Phoebus Apollo—and worthily have you—bestowed this care on behalf of the dead. And so, as is fitting, you will find me allied with you
[135]
in seeking vengeance for this land, and for the god as well. I will dispel this taint not on behalf of far-off friends, but for my own benefit. For whoever killed Laius
[140]
might wish to take vengeance on me also with a hand as fierce. Avenging Laius, therefore, I serve myself. Come, my children, as quickly as possible rise from the altar-steps, and lift these suppliant boughs. Let someone summon here Cadmus' people, warning them that I will leave nothing untried.
[145]
For with the god's help our good fortune—or our ruin—will be made certain.
Priest
My children, let us rise. What we came to seek, this man promises of his own accord. And may Phoebus, who sent these oracles,
[150]
come to us as savior and deliverer from the pestilence.
