Creon. What, is Medea of the hated race

Of Colchian Æëtes, not yet gone?

Still she is plotting evil; well I know

Her guile, and well I know her cruel hand.

Whom does she spare, or whom let rest secure?

Verily I had thought to cut her off

With the swift sword, but Jason's prayers availed

To spare her life. She may go forth unharmed

If she will set our city free from fear.

Threatening and fierce, she seeks to speak with us;

Attendants, keep her off, bid her be still,

And let her learn at last, a king's commands

Must be obeyed. Go, haste, and take her hence.

Medea. What fault is punished by my banishment?

Creon. A woman, innocent, may ask, 'What fault?'

Medea. If thou wilt judge, examine.

Creon. Kings command.

Just or unjust, a king must be obeyed.

Medea. An unjust kingdom never long