Iphigenia monologue — Iphigenia in Tauris

No, no! I'd pledge my life these men are true. And shouldst thou find them otherwise, O king, Then let them perish both, and cast me forth, That on some rock-girt island's dreary shore I may atone my folly. Are they true, And is this man indeed my dear Orestes, My brother, long implor'd,--release us both, And o'er us stretch the kind protecting arm, Which long hath shelter'd me. My noble sire Fell through his consort's guilt,--she by her son; On him alone the hope of Atreus' race Doth now repose. Oh, with pure heart and hands Let me depart to expiate our house. Yes, thou wilt keep thy promise; thou didst swear, That were a safe return provided me, I should be free to go. The hour is come. A king doth never grant like common men, Merely to gain a respite from petition; Nor promise what he hopes will ne'er be claim'd. Then first he feels his dignity complete When he can make the long-expecting happy.