 | Antigone
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SCENE THE FOURTH.
Creon, Guards.
Cre.
I know his temper well: his sense of honour,
More than aught else, can curb its vehemence:
My seeming confidence will much enthral
The workings of his rage ... yet perhaps to-day,
Intoxicated as he is with love,
He may resort to force? ... But 'twill be easy
For me to watch, deceive, defeat, his steps:
When once Antigone has fallen my victim,
All will be easy ... Theseus to appease ...
To impose obedience on the multitude ...
Regain my son; all this will be as nothing.
But of Argia how shall I dispose?
Guards, bring Argia instantly before me.
Her death no longer can promote my schemes;
And 'tis my interest now to pacify,
While yet I may, the anger of Adrastes:
I have too many enemies already.
I will restore her to her sire in Argos:
This restoration, as 'tis unexpected,
Will yield him more delight; and thus the stain
Of cruelty, imputed to my nature,
Will not be inconsiderably lessened.
| Antigone
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