long mourning for the lost--but
the thought is too much for him; why did they hold him back when he
would have cast himself into the gaping tomb, and gone the last journey
with his love? {963}

_The Chorus_ [_in Strophe_] think of one they knew who lost a son in
the flower of his age, an only son and well worthy of tears: yet he
bore his lonely burden like a man, and--courage! his hair is white and
he is nearing the end. {969}

_Admetus moves a few steps forward and the Procession, advances towards
the portal_: but the contrast catches his thought between this and
another procession towards the same threshold, when, amidst blazing
torches of Pelian pine and bridal dances, he led his new wife by the
hand, and shouts wished their union happy. Now wails for shouts, black
for glistening raiment, and before him the solitary chamber! {983}

_Chorus_ [_in Antistrophe_]. Trouble has come upon their master all at
once, in the midst of prosperity, and on one unschooled in misfortune.
But if the wife is gone the love is left. Many have had Admetus's
loss: but his gain let him remember: a rescued life. {988}

As if this jarred upon his mind, _Admetus_ turns round and addresses
the Chorus, his whole tone changed [_the dirge measures giving place to
blank verse_].

_Adm._ My friends, I deem the fortune of my wife
Happier than mine, though otherwise it seems. {990}
For nevermore shall sorrow touch her breast,
And she with glory rests from various ills.
But I, who ought not live, my destined hour
O'erpassing, shall drag on a mournful life,
Late taught what sorrow is. How shall I bear
To enter here? To whom shall I address
My speech? Whose greeting renders my return
Delightful? Which way shall I turn? Within
In lonely sorrow shall I waste away,
As, widowed of my wife, I see my couch, {1000}
The seats deserted where she sat, the rooms
Wanting her elegance. Around my knees
My children hang, and weep their mother lost:
The household servants for their mistress sigh.
This is the scene of misery in my home:
Abroad the nuptials of Thessalia's youth
And the bright circles of assembled dames
Will but augment my grief: how shall I bear
To see the lov'd companions of my wife!
And if one hates me, he will say: Beh