EURIPIDES
lolaus
The grandsons who are left will tend you then.
Alcmene
Suppose worse comes to worst—my God!—for them?
lolaus
These others will stand by you, never fear. 715
Alcmene
Then here I put my trust, my last resort.
lolaus
I'm sure that Zeus is also on your side.
Alcmene
Hm!
It's not for me to criticize Zeus, but
Still he knows best if he's played fair with me. 720
(Re-enter. Attendant.)
Attendant
Here is a full and fitting battle outfit;
Be quick and put it on. The fight's at hand.
For above everything the God of Battles
Detests a slacker. If the gear's too heavy,
Go on without it. Once inside the ranks 725
You can encase yourself; till then I'll carry it.
lolaus
All right, come on; but keep my things all ready.
Now put the spear-shaft into my left hand
And take my right arm so, to guide my steps.
Attendant
Ye gods! Am I to nursemaid you to war? 730
lolaus
No, but we'll watch our step. To fall's bad luck.
160