Part 24

OEDIPUS.

That, and the fear too of my father's blood.

STRANGER.

Then, surely, Lord ... I came but for thy good ... 'Twere well if from that fear I set thee free.

OEDIPUS.

Ah, couldst thou! There were rich reward for thee.

STRANGER.

To say truth, I had hoped to lead thee home Now, and myself to get some good therefrom.

OEDIPUS.

Nay; where my parents are I will not go.

STRANGER.

My son, 'tis very clear thou dost not know What road thou goest.

OEDIPUS.

How? In God's name, say! How clear?

STRANGER.

'Tis this, keeps thee so long away From Corinth?

OEDIPUS.

'Tis the fear lest that word break One day upon me true.

STRANGER.

Fear lest thou take Defilement from the two that gave thee birth?

OEDIPUS.

'Tis that, old man, 'tis that doth fill the earth With terror.

STRANGER.

Then thy terror all hath been For nothing.

OEDIPUS.

How? Were not your King and Queen My parents?

STRANGER.

Polybus was naught to thee In blood.