Danaus monologue — Four Plays of Aeschylus

Look you, not swiftly puts a fleet to sea, Nor swiftly to its moorings; long it is Or e’er the saving cables to the shore Are borne, and long or e’er the steersmen cry, _The good ship swings at anchor—all is well_. Longest of all, the task to come aland Where haven there is none, when sunset fades In night. _To pilot wise_, the adage saith, _Night is a day of wakefulness and pain_. Therefore no force of weaponed men, as yet Scatheless can come ashore, before the bank Lie at her anchorage securely moored. Bethink thee therefore, nor in panic leave The shrine of gods whose succour thou hast won I go for aid—men shall not blame me long, Old, but with youth at heart and on my tongue.