Scene I
Project Gutenberg EPUB3 edition
Seneca, Lucius Annaeus and Harris, Ella Isabel
Messenger, Chorus.
Messenger [enters in haste]. All are destroyed, the royal empire falls, Father and child lie in one funeral pyre. 840
Chorus. Destroyed by what deceit?
Messenger. That which is wont To ruin princes—gifts.
Chorus. Could these work harm?
Messenger. I myself wonder, and can hardly deem The wrong accomplished, though I know it done.
Chorus. How did it happen? 845
Messenger. A destructive fire Spreads everywhere as at command; even now The city is in fear, the palace burned.
Chorus. Let water quench the flames.
Messenger. It will not these, As by a miracle floods feed the fire. The more we fight it so much more it glows. 850