May I be blotted out from living men

Ere such a plague spot set on me its brand!

We too, O king, are troubled; but till thou

Hast questioned the survivor, still hope on.

My hope is faint, but still enough survives

To bid me bide the coming of this herd.

Suppose him here, what wouldst thou learn of him?

I'll tell thee, lady; if his tale agrees