Play on Words

dramatic · any · ~1 min · 171 words

Pylades monologue — Iphigenia in Tauris

I bring yet more,--for Fortune, like a prince, Comes not alone, but well accompanied. Our friends and comrades we have also found. Within a bay they had conceal'd the ship, And mournful sat expectant. They beheld Thy brother, and a joyous shout uprais'd, Imploring him to haste the parting hour. Each hand impatient long'd to grasp the oar, While from the shore a gently murmuring breeze, Perceiv'd by all, unfurl'd its wing auspicious. Let us then hasten; guide me to the fane, That I may tread the sanctuary, and seize With sacred awe the object of our hopes. I can unaided on my shoulder bear Diana's image: how I long to feel The precious burden! [_While speaking the last words, he approaches the Temple, without perceiving that he is not followed by Iphigenia: at length he turns round._] Why thus ling'ring stand. Why art thou silent? wherefore thus confus'd? Doth some new obstacle oppose our bliss? Inform me, hast thou to the king announc'd The prudent message we agreed upon?

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