Part 18

JOCASTA.

That was the tale. It is not yet forgot.

OEDIPUS.

The crossing of three ways! And in what land?

JOCASTA.

Phokis 'tis called. A road on either hand From Delphi comes and Daulia, in a glen.

OEDIPUS.

How many years and months have passed since then?

JOCASTA.

'Twas but a little time before proclaim Was made of thee for king, the tidings came.

OEDIPUS.

My God, what hast thou willed to do with me?

JOCASTA.

Oedipus, speak! What is it troubles thee?

OEDIPUS.

Ask me not yet. But say, what build, what height Had Laïus? Rode he full of youth and might?

JOCASTA.

Tall, with the white new gleaming on his brow He walked. In shape just such a man as thou.

OEDIPUS.

God help me! I much fear that I have wrought A curse on mine own head, and knew it not.

JOCASTA.

How sayst thou? O my King, I look on thee And tremble.

OEDIPUS (to himself).

Horror, if the blind can see! Answer but one thing and 'twill all be clear.

JOCASTA.

Speak. I will answer though I shake with fear.

OEDIPUS.

Went he with scant array, or a great band Of armèd followers, like a lord of land?