And in time past, when in despite of friends

Thou gav'st the rein to passion, still thy bane.

Restore the maidens, else thou goest not.

Then Thebes will take a dearer surety soon;

I will lay hands on more than these two maids.

And deeds forthwith shall make them good.

Unless perchance our sovereign intervene.

O shameless voice! Would'st lay an hand on me?