EURIPIDES
But even from this desperate plight, my child, 705
you can escape.
Phaedra
You, speak no more to me.
You have given me dishonorable advice.
What you have tried has brought dishonor too.
Away with you!
Think of yourself. For me and my concerns
I will arrange all well.
(Exit Nurse.)
You noble ladies of Troezen, grant me this, 710
this one request, that what you have heard here
you wrap in silence.
Chorus Leader
I swear by holy Artemis, child of Zeus,
never to bring your troubles to the daylight.
Phaedra
I thank you. I have found one single blessing 715
in this unhappy business, one alone,
that I can pass on to my children after me
life with an uncontaminated name,
and myself profit by the present throw
of Fortune's dice. For I will never shame you,
my Cretan home, nor will I go to face 720
Theseus, defendant on an ugly charge,
never—for one life's sake.
Chorus Leader
What is the desperate deed you mean to do,
the deed past cure?
Phaedra
Death. But the way of it, that
is what I now must plan.
210