PANOPE

Fain would I hide from you tidings so sad, But 'tis my duty, Madam, to reveal them.

The hand of death has seized your peerless husband, And you are last to hear of this disaster.

OENONE

What say you, Panope?

PANOPE

The queen, deceived By a vain trust in Heav'n, begs safe return For Theseus, while Hippolytus his son Learns of his death from vessels that are now In port.

PHAEDRA

Ye gods!

PANOPE

Divided counsels sway The choice of Athens; some would have the prince, Your child, for master; others, disregarding The laws, dare to support the stranger's son.

'Tis even said that a presumptuous faction Would crown Aricia and the house of Pallas.

I deem'd it right to warn you of this danger.

Hippolytus already is prepared To start, and should he show himself at Athens, 'Tis to be fear'd the fickle crowd will all Follow his lead.

OENONE

Enough. The queen, who hears you, By no means will neglect this timely warning.