ALCESTIS Heracles Surely. But I do not wonder at your unbelief. 1130 Admetus May I touch her, and speak to her, as my living wife? Heracles Speak to her. All that you desired is yours. Admetus Oh, eyes and body of my dearest wife, I have you now beyond all hope. I never thought to see you again. Heracles You have her. May no god hate you for your happiness, 1135 Admetus 0 nobly sprung child of all-highest Zeus, may good fortune go with you. May the father who gave you birth ,-keep you. You alone raised me up when I was down. How did you bring her back from down there to the light? Heracles 1 fought a certain deity who had charge of her. 1140 Admetus Where do you say you fought this match with Death? Heracles Beside the tomb itself. I sprang and caught him in my hands. Admetus But why is my wife standing here, and does not speak? Heracles You are not allowed to hear her speak to you until 63