CHOR. Creon, why art thou mute compressing thy voice in silence, for to me
also there is no less consternation.
CRE. But what can one say?--It is clear however what my answer will be. For
never will I go to this degree of calamity, to expose my son a victim for
the state. For all men live with an affection toward their children, nor
would any give up his own child to die. Let no one praise me for the deed,
and slay my children. But I myself, for I am arrived at a mature period of
life, am ready to die to liberate my country. But haste, my son, before the
whole city hears it, disregarding the intemperate oracles of prophets, fly
as quickly as possible, having quitted this land. For he will tell these
things to the authorities and chiefs, going to the seven gates, and to the
officers: and if indeed we get before him, there is safety for thee, but if
thou art too late, we are undone, thou diest.
MEN. Whither then fly? To what city? what friends?
CRE. Wheresoever thou wilt be farthest removed from this country.
MEN. Therefore it is fitting for thee to speak, and for me to do.