They claim that Theseus
appeared
in Epirus.
Racine - Phaedra
Phaedra. . . No! You gods! In what deep oblivion
Must this appalling secret be entombed! 720
Theramenes
If you're ready to depart, the sails are rigged.
But Athens, my Lord, has already voted.
Her leaders have taken soundings of every man.
Your brother carried the day: Phaedra has won.
Hippolytus
Phaedra?
Theramenes
A herald charged with Athen's demands 725
Comes now, to place control of the state in her hands.
Her son is king, my Lord.
Hippolytus
You gods, who know her,
Is it for her virtues you now reward her?
Theramenes
Meanwhile vague rumours say the king still lives.
They claim that Theseus appeared in Epirus. 730
But I who looked for him, my Lord, well knowing. . .
Hippolytus
No matter: listen to all, and neglect nothing
Let's look into this rumour, trace its source.
If it doesn't merit any change of course,
We'll leave: and whatever the cost to us may be, 735
We'll yet place the sceptre in hands more worthy.
Act III Scene I (Phaedra, Oenone)
Oh! If they'd take elsewhere the honours they send me!
Importunate girl, do you want them to see me?
With what do you hope to stir my desolate heart?
Rather you should hide me: I the truth impart. 740
My visible passions dared to appear abroad.
I have said what should never be overheard.
Heavens! How he listened! In how many ways
That unfeeling man evaded what I had to say!
