_Thyestes_ [_in soliloquy_]: Why hesitate, my soul, or why so long Deliberate upon a point so clear? To such uncertain things dost thou intrust Thyself as throne and brother? And fearest thou Those ills already conquered and found mild? 425 Dost flee those cares which thou hast well bestowed? Oh, now my former wretchedness is joy. Turn back, while still thou mayst, and save thyself. _Tantalus:_ What cause, O father, forces thee to leave Thy native land at last regained? Why now, 430 When richest gifts are falling in thy lap, Dost turn away? Thy brother's wrath is o'er; And he has turned himself once more to thee, Has given thee back thy share of sovereignty, Restored our shattered house to harmony, And made thee master of thyself again. _Thyestes:_ Thou askest why I fear--I cannot tell. No cause for fear I see, but still I fear. 435 I long to go, and yet my trembling limbs Go on with faltering steps, and I am borne Where I most stoutly struggle not to go. So, when a ship by oar and sail is driven, The tide, resisting both, bears it away. _Tantalus:_ But thou must overcome whate'er it be 440 That doth oppose and hold thy soul in check; And see how great rewards await thee here: Thou canst be king. _Thyestes:_ Since I have power to die. _Tantalus:_ But royal power is-- _Thyestes:_ Naught, if only thou No power dost covet. _Tantalus:_ Leave it to thy sons. _Thyestes:_ No realm on earth can stand divided power. _Tantalus:_ Should he, who can be happy, still be sad? 445