The Argonauts

ACTUS PRIMUS 13 PELIAS, To proof, then, boy. I lay my sceptre by, Put off my crown, descend the steps to thee. Here is my breast. Look firmly in my face, And slay me. Is there fear writ large and deep In mine old eyes? Or shudderest thou with fear? JASON. More hate than fear. In sooth, I cannot strike. PELIAS. A king is not so slain—except a madman May fall upon him with averted head. Indeed, I conquer. [Aside.] Even so, beware! Victory ill-nurtured breeds the babe defeat. [4Zoud.] Listen, my brother’s son! Nay, stoop not so, Bending ashaméd brows upon the earth! I am well weary of the world of men. I grow both old and hateful to myself, Most on the throne: power which to youth is sweet To age looks fearful. Also I have wept— Alas! how often !—and repented me Of those unkingly deeds whereby I gained This throne whose joy is turned to bitterness, I will make peace with thee, and justice still Shall have a home and shrine in Thessaly. Be patient notwithstanding! Prove thyself Valiant and wise—and reign here! If in sooth An aged counsellor, whose reverend hair Commands a hearing, may assist at all,