Search the Perseus Catalog for:

View: By Book

← Previous Next →

"The woman spake, and to our fair abode

570

Departed. The Phoenician crew remained

Until the twelvemonth's end, and filled their ship

With many things, and, when its roomy hull

Was fully laden, sent a messenger

To tell the woman. He, a cunning man,

575

Came to my father's house, and brought with him

A golden necklace set with amber beads.

The palace maidens and the gracious queen,

My mother, took it in their hands, and gazed

Upon it, and debated of its price.

580

Meantime the bearer gave the sign, and soon

Departed to the ship. The woman took

My hand and led me forth. Within the hall

She found upon the tables ready placed

The goblets for my father's guests, his peers ;

585

But they were absent, and in council yet

Amid a great assembly. She concealed

Three goblets in her bosom, and bore off

The theft. I followed thoughtlessly. The sun

Went down, and darkness brooded o'er the ways.

590

Briskly we walked, and reached the famous port

And the fast-sailing ship. They took us both

On board, and sailed. Along its ocean path

The vessel ran, and Jupiter bestowed

A favorable wind. Six days we sailed,

595

Both night and day; but when Saturnian Jove

Brought the seventh day, Diana, archer-queen,

Struck down the woman, and with sudden noise

Headlong she plunged into the hold, as dives

A sea-gull. But the seamen cast her forth

600

To fishes and to sea-calves. I was left

Alone and sorrowful. The winds and waves

Carried our galley on to Ithaca;

And there Laertes purchased me, and thus

I first beheld the land in which I dwell."

605

And then again the great Ulysses spake :

"Eumæus, the sad story of thy wrongs

And sufferings moves me deeply; yet hath Jove

Among thy evil fortunes given this good,

That, after all thy sufferings, thou art lodged

610

With a good master, who abundantly

Provides thee meat and drink; thou leadest here

A pleasant life, while I am come to thee

From wandering long and over many lands."

Odyssey. Homer. Boston. 1873.

Current edition Experimental

English (William Cullen Bryant, 1873) (OCR draft) (English) (English (William Cullen Bryant, 1873))

Provisional text from uncorrected OCR; expect errors.

Editions (1)

Ὀδύσσεια Perseus (Homer. The Odyssey, Volume 1-2. Murray, A. T. (Augustus Taber), editor. London: William Heinmann; New York: G.P. Putnam's Sons, 1919.) — 15.493 focus

ὣς οἱ μὲν τοιαῦτα πρὸς ἀλλήλους ἀγόρευον,

καδδραθέτην δʼ οὐ πολλὸν ἐπὶ χρόνον, ἀλλὰ μίνυνθα·

αἶψα γὰρ Ἠὼς ἦλθεν ἐΰθρονος. οἱ δʼ ἐπὶ χέρσου

495

Τηλεμάχου ἕταροι λύον ἱστία, κὰδ δʼ ἕλον ἱστὸν

καρπαλίμως, τὴν δʼ εἰς ὅρμον προέρυσσαν ἐρετμοῖς·

ἐκ δʼ εὐνὰς ἔβαλον, κατὰ δὲ πρυμνήσιʼ ἔδησαν·

ἐκ δὲ καὶ αὐτοὶ βαῖνον ἐπὶ ῥηγμῖνι θαλάσσης,

δεῖπνόν τʼ ἐντύνοντο κερῶντό τε αἴθοπα οἶνον.

500

αὐτὰρ ἐπεὶ πόσιος καὶ ἐδητύος ἐξ ἔρον ἕντο,

τοῖσι δὲ Τηλέμαχος πεπνυμένος ἤρχετο μύθων·

ὑμεῖς μὲν νῦν ἄστυδʼ ἐλαύνετε νῆα μέλαιναν,

αὐτὰρ ἐγὼν ἀγροὺς ἐπιείσομαι ἠδὲ βοτῆρας·

ἑσπέριος δʼ εἰς ἄστυ ἰδὼν ἐμὰ ἔργα κάτειμι.

505

ἠῶθεν δέ κεν ὔμμιν ὁδοιπόριον παραθείμην,

δαῖτʼ ἀγαθὴν κρειῶν τε καὶ οἴνου ἡδυπότοιο.

τὸν δʼ αὖτε προσέειπε Θεοκλύμενος θεοειδής·

πῆ γὰρ ἐγώ, φίλε τέκνον, ἴω; τεῦ δώμαθʼ ἵκωμαι

ἀνδρῶν οἳ κραναὴν Ἰθάκην κάτα κοιρανέουσιν;

510

ἦ ἰθὺς σῆς μητρὸς ἴω καὶ σοῖο δόμοιο;

τὸν δʼ αὖ Τηλέμαχος πεπνυμένος ἀντίον ηὔδα·

ἄλλως μέν σʼ ἂν ἐγώ γε καὶ ἡμέτερόνδε κελοίμην

ἔρχεσθʼ· οὐ γάρ τι ξενίων ποθή· ἀλλὰ σοὶ αὐτῷ

χεῖρον, ἐπεί τοι ἐγὼ μὲν ἀπέσσομαι, οὐδέ σε μήτηρ

515

ὄψεται· οὐ μὲν γάρ τι θαμὰ μνηστῆρσʼ ἐνὶ οἴκῳ

φαίνεται, ἀλλʼ ἀπὸ τῶν ὑπερωΐῳ ἱστὸν ὑφαίνει.

ἀλλά τοι ἄλλον φῶτα πιφαύσκομαι ὅν κεν ἵκοιο,

Εὐρύμαχον, Πολύβοιο δαΐφρονος ἀγλαὸν υἱόν,

τὸν νῦν ἶσα θεῷ Ἰθακήσιοι εἰσορόωσι·

520

καὶ γὰρ πολλὸν ἄριστος ἀνὴρ μέμονέν τε μάλιστα

μητέρʼ ἐμὴν γαμέειν καὶ Ὀδυσσῆος γέρας ἕξειν.

ἀλλὰ τά γε Ζεὺς οἶδεν Ὀλύμπιος, αἰθέρι ναίων,

εἴ κέ σφι πρὸ γάμοιο τελευτήσει κακὸν ἦμαρ.

Translations (8)

Odyssey Perseus (Homer. The Odyssey, Volume 1-2. Murray, A. T. (Augustus Taber), translator. London: William Heinmann; New York: G.P. Putnam's Sons, 1919.) — 15.454 focus

“So saying, she departed to the fair palace. 455 And they remained there in our land a full year, and got by trade much substance in their hollow ship. But when their hollow ship was laden for their return, then they sent a messenger to bear tidings to the woman. There came a man, well versed in guile, to my father's house 460 with a necklace of gold, and with amber beads was it strung between. This the maidens in the hall and my honored mother were handling, and were gazing on it, and were offering him their price; but he nodded to the woman in silence. Then verily when he had nodded to her, he went his way to the hollow ship, 465 but she took me by the hand, and led me forth from the house. Now in the fore-hall of the palace she found the cups and tables of the banqueters, who waited upon my father. They had gone forth to the council and the people's place of debate, but she quickly hid three goblets in her bosom, 470 and bore them away; and I followed in my heedlessness. Then the sun set, and all the ways grew dark. And we made haste and came to the goodly harbor, where was the swift ship of the Phoenicians. Then they embarked, 475 putting both of us on board as well, and sailed over the watery ways, and Zeus sent them a favorable wind. For six days we sailed, night and day alike; but when Zeus, son of Cronos, brought upon us the seventh day, then Artemis, the archer, smote the woman, and she fell with a thud into the hold, as a sea bird plunges. 480 Her they cast forth to be a prey to seals and fishes, but I was left, my heart sore stricken. Now the wind, as it bore them, and the wave, brought them to Ithaca , where Laertes bought me with his wealth. Thus it was that my eyes beheld this land.” 485 To him then Zeus-born Odysseus made answer, and said: “Eumaeus, of a truth thou hast deeply stirred the heart in my breast in telling all this tale of the sorrow thou hast borne at heart. Yet verily in thy case Zeus has given good side by side with the evil, since after all thy toil thou hast come to the house of 490 a kindly man, who gives thee food and drink, and that with kindness, and thou livest well; while as for me, it is while wandering through the many cities of men that I am come hither.”

Odyssey Perseus (Homer. The Odyssey: rendered into English prose for the use of those who cannot read the original. Butler, Samuel, 1835-1902, translator. Revised by Timothy Power and Gregory Nagy. London: A.C. Fifield, 1900.) — 15.434 focus

434 "‘I will do so gladly,’ answered she, ‘if you men will first swear me a solemn oath that you will do me no harm by the way.’

437 "They all swore as she told them, and when they had completed their oath the woman said, ‘Hush; and if any of your men meets me in the street or at the well, do not let him speak to me, for fear some one should go and tell my master, in which case he would suspect something. He would put me in prison, and would have all of you murdered; keep your own counsel therefore; buy your merchandise as fast as you can, and send me word when you have done loading. I will bring as much gold as I can lay my hands on, and there is something else also that I can do towards paying my fare. I am nurse to the son of the good man of the house, a funny little fellow just able to run about. I will carry him off in your ship, and you will get a great deal of wealth for him if you take him and sell him in foreign parts.’

454 "On this she went back to the house. The Phoenicians stayed a whole year till they had loaded their ship with much precious merchandise, and then, when they had got freight enough, they sent to tell the woman. Their messenger, a very cunning fellow, came to my father's house bringing a necklace of gold with amber beads strung among it; and while my mother and the servants had it in their hands admiring it and bargaining about it, he made a sign quietly to the woman and then went back to the ship, whereon she took me by the hand and led me out of the house. In the fore part of the house she saw the tables set with the cups of guests who had been feasting with my father, as being in attendance on him; these were now all gone to a meeting of the population [ dêmos] assembly, so she snatched up three cups and carried them off in the bosom of her dress, while I followed her, for I knew no better. The sun was now set, and darkness was over all the land, so we hurried on as fast as we could till we reached the harbor, where the Phoenician ship was lying. When they had got on board they sailed their ways over the sea, taking us with them, and Zeus sent then a fair wind; six days did we sail both night and day, but on the seventh day Artemis struck the woman and she fell heavily down into the ship's hold as though she were a sea gull alighting on the water; so they threw her overboard to the seals and fishes, and I was left all sorrowful and alone. Presently the winds and waves took the ship to Ithaca , where Laertes gave sundry of his chattels for me, and thus it was that ever I came to set eyes upon this country."

485 Odysseus answered, "Eumaios, I have heard the story of your misfortunes with the most lively interest and pity, but Zeus has given you good as well as evil, for in spite of everything you have a good master, who sees that you always have enough to eat and drink; and you lead a good life, whereas I am still going about begging my way from city to city."

English (Butler, rev. Nagy et al., 2020) (OCR draft) Experimental (English (Butler, rev. Nagy et al., 2020)) — 15.454 focus

Then she went back to the house. [455] The Phoenicians stayed a whole year till they had loaded their ship with much precious merchandise, and then, when they had got freight enough, they sent to tell the woman. Their messenger, a very cunning man, came to my father’s house [460] bringing a necklace of gold with amber beads strung among it; and while my mother and the servants had it in their hands admiring it and bargaining about it, he made a sign quietly to the woman and then went back [465] to the ship, whereon she took me by the hand and led me out of the house. In the fore part of the house she saw the tables set with the cups of guests who had been feasting with my father, as being in attendance on him; these were now all gone to an assembly of the district [ dēmos], so she snatched up three cups and carried them off in the bosom of her dress, [470] while I followed her, for I knew no better. The sun was now set, and darkness was over all the land, so we hurried on as fast as we could till we reached the harbor, where the fast-running Phoenician ship was lying. [475] When they had got on board they sailed their ways over the sea, taking us with them, and Zeus, son of Kronos, sent them a fair wind; six days did we sail both night and day, but on the seventh day Artemis of the showering arrows struck the woman and she fell heavily down into the ship’s hold as though she were a sea gull alighting on the water; [480] so they threw her overboard to the seals and fishes, and I was left all sorrowful and alone. Presently the winds and waves took the ship to Ithaca, where Laertes gave sundry of his chattels for me, and thus it was that ever I came to set eyes upon this country.”

[485] Illustrious Odysseus answered, “Eumaios, I have heard the story of your misfortunes with the most lively interest and pity, but Zeus has given you good as well as evil, for in spite of everything you have a good [490] master, who sees that you always have enough to eat and drink; and you lead a good life, whereas I am still going about begging my way from city to city.”

English (Alexander Pope, 1726, ed. Watson, 1858) (OCR draft) Experimental (English (Alexander Pope, 1726, ed. Watson, 1858)) — 15.454 focus

Thus spoke the dame, and homeward took the road.

'A year they traffic, and their vessel load.

"Their stores complete, and ready now to weigh,

'A spy was sent their summons to convey:

'An artist to my father's palace came,
495

'With gold and amber chains, elaborate frame:

'Each female eye the glittering links employ;

'They turn, review, and cheapen every toy.

'He took th' occasion, as they stood intent,

'Gave her the sign, and to his vessel went.
500

'She straight pursu'd, and seiz'd my willing arm;

'I follow'd smiling, innocent of harm.

'Three golden goblets in the porch she found,

'(The guests not enter'd, but the table crown'd;)

'Hid in her fraudful bosom these she bore:
505

'Now set the sun, and darken'd all the shore.

'Arriving then, where, tilting on the tides,

'Prepar'd to launch the freighted vessel rides,

'Aboard they heave us, mount their decks, and sweep

'With level oar along the glassy deep.
510

'Six calmy days and six smooth nights we sail,

'And constant Jove supplied the gentle gale.

'The seventh, the fraudful wretch, (no cause descried,)

'Touch'd by Diana's vengeful arrow, died.

'Down dropp'd the caitiff-corse, a worthless load,
515

'Down to the deep; there roll'd, the future food

'Of fierce sea-wolves, and monsters of the flood.

'A helpless infant I remain'd behind;

'Thence borne to Ithaca by wave and wind;

'Sold to Laërtes by divine command,
520

'And now adopted to a foreign land.'

Ulysses

To him the king: 'Reciting thus thy cares,

'My secret soul in all thy sorrow shares;

'But one choice blessing (such is Jove's high will)

'Has sweeten'd all thy bitter draught of ill:
525

'Torn from thy country to no hapless end,

'The gods have, in a master, given a friend.

'Whatever frugal nature needs is thine,

'(For she needs little,) daily bread and wine.

'While I, so many wanderings past and woes,
530

'Live but on what thy poverty bestows.'

English (Thomas Hobbes, 1667, ed. Molesworth 1843) (OCR draft) Experimental (English (Thomas Hobbes, 1667, ed. Molesworth 1843)) — 15.454 focus

And home again, this said, returned she.

A year it was before these merchants went.

Meanwhile they buy and lade the ship; and when

410

They had their freight, straightway a man they sent

To bid the maid make haste away. And then

A man unto my father's house they sent;

A crafty merchant, with a chain of gold

And shining amber, on which were intent

415

My mother and her maids; they much behold,

And take into their hands, and for it bid.

Meanwhile the man a nod gave with his head,

The woman quickly understand him did,

And by the hand me out a-door she lead.

420

Aboard went he. The woman look'd about,

Saw standing on the tables many a cup,

Left by my father and his guests gone out,

And presently she three of them took up;

Out went she, leading me, that simple was.

425

The sun went down, and dusky was the way,

And to the ship we unpursued pass,

To th' haven where the merchants' vessel lay.

And then go they, and with them we aboard,

And sail'd before the wind six days and nights,

430

And to us Jove a fair gale did afford,

Diana on the seventh the woman smites,

And suddenly into the sink she fell;

And her they throw into the sea for cheer

To fishes; but the rest arrived well

435

At Ithaca. Laertes bought me there.

You see now how I hither came. Then said

Ulysses, Truly you have pass'd much woe;

But Jove in part your sorrows bath allay'd,

That in a good man's house at ease are now,

440

That gives you meat and drink with a good will;

With him you live a happy life. But I

Have longer wand'ring been, and must be still.

English (George Chapman, 1667, ed. Hooper 1857) (OCR draft) Experimental (English (George Chapman, 1667, ed. Hooper 1857)) — 15.454 focus

This said, she gat her home, and there made stay

A whole year with us, goods of great avail

Their ship enriching. Which now fit for sail,

605

They sent a messenger t' inform the dame;

And to my father's house a fellow came,

Full of Phœnician craft, that to be sold

A tablet brought, the body all of gold,

The verge all amber. This had ocular view

610

Both by my honour'd mother and the crew

Of her house-handmaids, handled, and the price

Beat, asked, and promised. And while this device

Lay thus upon the forge, this jeweller

Made privy signs, by winks and wiles, to her

615

That was his object; which she took, and he,

His sign seeing noted, hied to ship. When she,

(My hand still taking, as she used to do

To walk abroad with her) convey'd me so

Abroad with her, and in the portico

620

Found cups, with tasted viands, which the guests

That used to flock about my father's feasts

Had left. They gone (some to the council court,

Some to hear news amongst the talking sort)

Her theft three bowls into her lap convey'd,

625

And forth she went. Nor was my wit so stay'd

To stay her, or myself. The sun went down,

And shadows round about the world were flown,

When we came to the haven, in which did ride

The swift Phœnician ship; whose fair broad side

630

They boarded straight, took us up; and all went

Along the moist waves. Wind Saturnius sent.

Six days we day and night sail'd; but when Jove

Put up the seventh day, She that shafts doth love

Shot dead the woman, who into the pump

635

Like to a dop-chick dived, and gave a thump

In her sad settling. Forth they cast her then

To serve the fish and sea-calves, no more men;

But I was left there with a heavy heart;

When wind and water drave them quite apart

640

Their own course, and on Ithaca they fell,

And there poor me did to Laertes sell.

And thus these eyes the sight of this isle proved."

"Eumæus," he replied, "thou much hast moved

The mind in me with all things thou hast said,

645

And all the suff'rance on thy bosom laid,

But, truly, to thy ill hath Jove join'd good,

That one whose veins are served with human blood

Hath bought thy service, that gives competence

Of food, wine, cloth to thee; and sure th' expence

650

Of thy life's date here is of good desert,

Whose labours not to thee alone impart

Sufficient food and housing, but to me;

Where I through many a heap'd humanity

Have hither err'd, where, though, like thee, not sold,

655

Nor stay'd like thee yet, nor nought needful hold."

English (William Cowper, 1791, ed. Southey) (OCR draft) Experimental (English (William Cowper, 1791, ed. Southey)) — 15.454 focus

So saying, she to my father's house return'd.

They, there abiding the whole year, their ship

With purchased goods freighted of every kind,

550

And when her lading now complete, she lay

For sea prepared, their messenger arrived

To summon down the woman to the shore.

A mariner of theirs, subtle and shrewd,

Then, entering at my father's gate, produced

555

A splendid collar, gold with amber strung.

My mother (then at home) with all her maids

Handling and gazing on it with delight,

Proposed to purchase it, and he the nod

Significant, gave unobserved, the while,

560

To the Phœnician woman, and return'd.

She, thus inform'd, leading me by the hand

Went forth, and finding in the vestibule

The cups and tables which my father's guests

Had used, (but they were to the forum gone

565

For converse with their friends assembled there,)

Convey'd three cups into her bosom-folds,

And bore them off, whom I a thoughtless child

Accompanied, at the decline of day,

When dusky evening had embrown'd the shore.

570

We, stepping nimbly on, soon reach'd the port

Renown'd, where that Phœnician vessel lay.

They shipp'd us both, and all embarking cleaved

Their liquid road by favourable gales,

Jove's gift, impell'd. Six days we day and night

575

Continual sail'd, but when Saturnian Jove

Now bade the seventh bright morn illume the skies,

Then shaft-arm'd Dian struck the woman dead.

At once she pitch'd headlong into the bilge

Like a sea-coot, whence heaving her again,

580

The seamen gave her to be fishes' food,

And I survived to mourn her. But the winds

And rolling billows them bore to the coast

Of Ithaca, where with his proper goods

Laertes bought me. By such means it chanced

585

That ere I saw the isle in which I dwell.

To whom Ulysses, glorious Chief replied.

Eumæus! thou hast moved me much, thy woes

Enumerating thus at large. But Jove

Hath neighbour'd all thy evil with this good,

590

That after numerous sorrows thou hast reach'd

The house of a kind master, at whose hands

Thy sustenance is sure, and here thou lead'st

A tranquil life; but I have late arrived,

City after city of the world explored.

595

English (H. B. Cotterill, 1911) (OCR draft) Experimental (English (H. B. Cotterill, 1911)) — 15 focus

ODYSSEY BOOK XV

NOW to the spacious land Lacedaemon was Pallas Athene

Gone, for the gallant son of the great-souled hero Odysseus

Thence she was willed to recall to his home and to hasten his coming.

Nestor's glorious son and Telemachus she discovered

Couched in the porch of the hall of the far-famed prince Menelaus.

Sleeping was Nestor's son, for by slumber soft he was conquered,

While sweet sleep had abandoned the son of Odysseus, and wakeful

All the ambrosial night he had brooded on thoughts of his father.

Standing anigh then addressed him the grey-eyed goddess Athene:

"Telemachus, no more is it meet from thy home to absent thee,

Leaving possessions behind and strangers too in thy homestead

Wantonly wasting thy wealth, lest soon they shall wholly despoil it,

Yea and divide it among them, and vain prove therefore thy journey.

Come now, ask that at once Menelaus good at the war-cry

Send thee, and still in thy home mayst meet with thy excellent mother,

Though already her father and brothers incessantly bid her

Marry with Eurymachus, who hath ever excelled with his presents

All of the rest, and is now increasing his gifts as a wooer.

So shalt thou stay her from taking the goods from the house, if thou willst not.

What is the spirit that dwells in the heart of a widow thou knowest.

Ever she aims at enriching the house of the man that will wed her :

Nought for her earlier children or husband loved in her girlhood

Cares she, if once he is dead; and she asks no longer about him.

Therefore return to thy home, and entrust with the care of the household

One of the women attendants that seemeth the best and the wisest,

Till that a glorious bride by the gods everlasting be sent thee.

Something besides will I say; do thou lay it to heart, I beseech thee.

Lo, with malicious intent are lurking the chief of the suitors

Just 'twixt Ithacan shores and the rock-bound island of Samos,

Wishing to slay thee before thou arrivest the land of thy fathers.

Yet do I reck not thereof, for the earth far sooner shall swallow

Many a one of the wooers who daily consume thy possessions.

Keep thou the well-built ship right far from the shores of the island;

Voyage also at night; and a favouring breeze shall attend thee,

Sent by the goddess that alway affordeth thee aid and protection.

Now on the nearest beach of the Ithacan isle disembarking,

After despatching the vessel and all of thy mates to the city,

Hasten afoot and betake thee at first to the hut of the swineherd,

Even the thrall who attends to thy swine and is loyal as alway.

Here shalt thou rest for a night, and shalt urge him to enter the city

Bearing a message to give to the wise-souled Penelopeia,

So that she learn that again she hath got thee in safety from Pylos."

These words uttered, the goddess departed to lofty Olympus.

Forthwith Nestor's son from his pleasant slumbers he wakened,

Stirring the youth with a touch of his heel; and he spake and addressed him :

"Wake, Peisistratus, wake! and the hard-hoofed steeds from the stable

Hasten to bring and to yoke to the car! Let us start on the journey!"

Straightway Nestor's son Peisistratus answered him saying:

"Telemachus, though eager for starting we surely can never

Drive in the darkness of night. Ere long will be coming the daylight.

Wait till the hero bringeth the gifts on the car to be laden,

Even the hero Atrides, the spear-famed prince Menelaus,

Yea and until with a kind farewell he shall speed thy departure

Since that a guest should surely remember as long as he liveth

Whosoever to strangers hath offered so kindly a welcome."

Thus did he speak, and anon came Morning enthroned in her glory.

Then drew nigh to the twain Menelaus good at the war-cry,

Newly from sleep by the side of the fair-haired Helen arisen.

Him as he saw approaching, the well-loved son of Odysseus,

Hastily seizing to cover his body a glistering tunic,

Donned it, and casting a great thick cloak on his sinewy shoulders

Went to the door. Here waited the prince, till approached and addressed him

Hero Telemachus, loved son of Odysseus the godlike :

"Captain of warrior hosts, Zeus-loved Menelaus Atrides,

Let me return, I beseech, to the well-loved land of my fathers

Now—for already my heart is beginning to yearn for the homeland."

Him then in answer addressed Menelaus good at the war-cry :

"Telemachus, I will try no longer here to retain thee,

Since thou yearnst to depart; for I always censure another,

Whosoever receiveth a stranger and showeth affection,

Showeth dislike too much. Fair measure is better in all things.

Equally great is the wrong if a host, when his guest is unwilling,

Urge him to go—or attempt to retain him when eager for starting.

Cherish a present guest; if he wishes to leave thee, allow him!

Wait howbeit a while, till I bring, on the car to be laden,

Beautiful gifts—thou shalt see them thyself; and the maids shall be bidden

Get us a dinner prepared in the hall from the store of provisions.

Honour and glory to me it will bring, and to you an advantage,

Ere ye depart on a journey so boundless, with food to refresh you.

Wishest thou also in Hellas and midmost Argos to travel,

Wait—I will come! I will order them straightway horses to harness;

Unto the cities of men I will guide thee, and never shall any

Send us away as we came; some present he surely will give us,

Either a well-wrought tripod of bronze maybe, or a cauldron,

Or peradventure a couple of mules, or a gold-wrought goblet."

Him sage Telemachus addressing in turn gave answer :

"Captain of warrior hosts, Zeus-loved Menelaus Atrides,

Unto my native land I am fain to return, for behind me

None, when I came, did I leave as a guard to protect my possessions;

Else it is like that in seeking my godlike father I perish,

Or some treasure of worth disappear from the halls of my homestead."

Now when he heard these words, Menelaus good at the war-cry

Straightway spake to his wife and the women attendants, and bade them

Get him a dinner prepared in the hall from the store of provisions.

Meanwhile thither approached Boëthous' son, Eteóneus,

Newly arisen from sleep—for he dwelt not far from the palace.

Him Menelaus commanded to kindle a fire, and upon it

Roast of the meat; and he heard the behest, nor was slow to obey it.

Then to the fragrant room of his treasure descended the hero,

Neither alone did he go; Megapenthes followed, and Helen.

100

Now when he came to the place where stored were all of the treasures,

Forthwith prince Menelaus a twy-cupped goblet selected,

Also his son Megapenthes he ordered to carry a wine-bowl

Solid of silver; and Helen to wardrobe-boxes betook her

Where rich-broidered apparel was hoarded, the work of her needle;

105

Hence uplifted a garment and took it the fairest of women,

One that was richest embroidered of all of the robes and the largest,

Glistering, like to a star; and the lowest of all it was lying.

Then to the front of the palace they passed, and here they discovered

Telemachus, and the prince fair-haired Menelaus addressed him :

110

“Telemachus, the return to thy home, for the which thou art sighing,

May it be granted by Zeus, loud-thundering husband of Hera!

Mine is the granting of gifts; and of heirlooms stored in my palace

One will I give, most fair, most precious of all my possessions;

Yea I will give thee a bowl rich-worked; it is solid of silver

115

All of it, save that in gold are finished the lips of the vessel ;

Wrought was the bowl by Hephaestus; and hero Phaedimus gave it,

King of the people of Sidon, when once in his palace I sojourned

While I was voyaging home. This cup will I also present thee."

These words spake Menelaus the prince, and the twy-cupped chalice

120

Placed in the hand of his guest; and the stalwart youth Megapenthes

Brought him the bowl, and in front of him stationed the glittering vessel

Solid of silver; and next came fair-faced Helen anigh him,

Holding a robe in her hands, and she spake and greeted him saying:

"I too bring thee a present, my well-loved child—a memento—

125

Handwork of Helen—her gift for the longed-for day of thy marriage,

Even a robe for thy wife. Let thy mother belov'd in the meanwhile

Lay it aside in her chamber; and may'st thou in safety and gladness

Come to thy well-built home once more and the land of thy fathers!"

These words spoken she reached him the robe, and with joy he received it.

130

All of the presents did then Peisistratus take, and he stowed them

Into the chest of the car, upon each of them gazing in wonder.

Now to the palace he led them, the fair-haired prince Menelaus.

Here, so soon as they sat them adown on the couches and armchairs,

Water for washing of hands by a maiden was brought in an ewer

135

Beautiful, golden, and over a basin of silver she poured it,

Bidding them wash; and she stationed a polished table beside them.

Then did a grave house-dame bring bread, and she laid it before them,

Lavishly adding thereto from her stores full many a dainty.

Nigh them Boëthous' son stood carving the meat and dispensing,

140

While that the bearer of wine was the son of renowned Menelaus.

Then did they stretch forth hands to the food that was lying before them,

Till, when at last they had lost all longing for meat and the wine-cup,

Forthwith Telemachus and Nestor's glorious offspring

Yoking the horses and up on the rich-wrought chariot mounting

145

Drave from the gate of the house and the loudly reëchoing portal.

After them hasted on foot fair-haired Menelaus Atrides

Bringing a bumper—a chalice of gold full-brimmed—in his right hand,

Wine honey-hearted, to pour as libation before they departed.

Fronting the horses he stood, and restrained them and uttered his speeding:

150

"Now farewell to you both, young men! and to Nestor the chieftain

Carry my greeting, for like to a father he treated me kindly

While in the Trojan land were warring the sons of Achaea."

Him sage Telemachus addressing in turn made answer:

"Yea, assuredly just as thou biddst, Zeus-loved Menelaus,

155

All we shall tell him whene'er we arrive; and I would that as surely

PATTEN WILSON.
“FAREWELL TO YOU BOTH, YOUNG MEN!”

Coming to Ithaca's isle 'twere mine to discover Odysseus

There in his home, and to tell him of all thou hast shown me of kindness

Ere I returned thus laden with many a beautiful treasure."

E'en as he spake these words on the right came winging an eagle,

160

Bearing a great white goose in the clutch of his talons—a tame one

Robbed from the yard of a farm; and a clamorous rabble pursued it,

Women and men—but the bird, when it now full nigh had approached them,

Suddenly swooped to the right in the front of the horses. Exulting

All of them saw it, and warm was the hope that arose in their bosoms.

165

Broken by Nestor's son Peisistratus first was the silence :

"Captain of warrior hosts, Zeus-loved Menelaus, bethink thee

Whether to us or to thee some deity sendeth this omen!"

Thus did he speak, and in doubt was the warlike prince Menelaus

How to respond to the youth and the portent rightly interpret.

170

Ere he replied forestalled him the long-robed Helen and answered :

"Listen, for lo I will utter a thing that the blesséd immortals

Put in my heart to predict and I trow it will find a fulfilment.

E'en as to capture the goose that was feeding secure by the farmstead

Down from the mountain he swooped, from his native haunts and his eyrie,

175

Thus shall Odysseus, with all of his toils and his wanderings ended,

Come once more to his home and avenge him or even already

There is arrived, and already is plotting the doom of the suitors."

Her sage Telemachus addressing in turn made answer :

"May it be granted by Zeus, loud-thundering husband of Hera!

180

Then in the land of my birth as a goddess I'll ever invoke thee."

Speaking, he swayed with the lash at the horses : in eager excitement

Thorough the streets of the city and out to the open they galloped.

So for the whole of the day kept shaking the yoke on their shoulders,

Till, when the sun sank down and darkened was every roadway,

185

Unto the township of Phera they came, and the house of Diocles,

Offspring of Orsilochus, who was son of the river Alphéus.

Here did they rest for the night, and as host he entreated them kindly.

Now when the morning was newly arisen, the roseate-fingered,

Yoked they the horses and up on the rich-wrought chariot mounting

190

Drave from the gate of the house and the loudly reëchoing portal.

Then did he whip to a start, and the steeds flew eagerly onward,

Till ere long they arrived at the steep-built city of Pylos.

Here spake Telemachus and to Nestor's son he addressed him:

"Tell me, Peisistratus—couldst thou not promise and also accomplish

195

This that I ask? We can claim that a lifelong friendship unites us,

Since that my father by thine was belov'd—and in age we are equals ;

Ay and to oneness of heart still more will this journey contribute.

Take me not further, I pray, but allow me to halt by my vessel,

Lest that the ancient king (as I fear) in his palace detain me,

200

Eager to show me a kindness for home it is need that I hasten."

Thus did he speak, and a while with his heart Peisistratus communed

How it was seemly to make him the promise and also fulfil it.

Thus as he pondered thereon this plan seemed surely the better :

Turning his horses he came to the beach and the swift-winged vessel ;

205

Here on the poop of the ship he embarked the magnificent presents,

All of the raiment and gold that the prince Menelaus had given;

Then he addressed him with swift-winged words and exhorted him, saying

"Haste thee aboard, and the whole of thy company bid to embark them,

Ere I arrive at the palace and bring to my father the tidings,

210

Since right well do I know in the mind and the spirit within me,

Such is his obstinate temper, he ne'er will allow thy departure ;

Hither himself he will come to invite thee, nor ever, believe me,

Empty return, and despite thy excuse will be terribly angered."

These words spoken, he started his fair-maned horses and drave them

215

On to the Pylian city, and soon was arrived at the palace.

Telemachus meanwhile uproused and commanded his shipmates :

"Set ye in order the gear, good friends, in the black-hulled vessel,

So we can get us aboard and be making a start on the journey."

Thus when he spake right gladly they hark'd to his words and obeyed him.

220

Quickly they mounted the vessel and sat them adown on the benches.

So was he busied and making oblation and vows to Athene

Close by the stern of the ship, when a man drew nigh him, an exile,

One that had murdered a man and was fled from a distance, from Argos,

Famed as a prophet and claiming descent from the stock of Melampus.

225

Formerly Pylos, the mother of flocks, was the home of Melampus;

Rich was the man and of mighty estate in the Pylian people,

Till at the last to a country of strangers he came from his homeland,

Fleeing the proudest of all men living, the arrogant Neleus,

Him who had seized his possessions and during a year's revolution

230

Kept them by force; theatre, in the dwelling of Phylacus prisoned,

Heavily fettered he lay and suffered grievous afflictions.

Cause of it all was the daughter of Neleus—ay and his blindness,

Terrible blindness of heart that was sent by the vengeful Erinys.

Yet this doom he escaped, and the bellowing cattle to Pylos

235

Back out of Phylace driving avenged on the godlike Neleus

All of that shameful deed, and he brought to the home of his brother

Neleus' daughter, and gave her as wife; then he left for a far land,

E'en for the horse-rich pastures of Argos; and here he was fated

Further to dwell and to rule o'er many a son of the Argives.

240

Here did he marry a wife, and a high-roofed homestead he built him;

Antiphates he begat and Mantius, progeny stalwart;

Offspring of Antiphates was the valiant-hearted Oïcles ;

Then was Oïcles the sire of the warrior Amphiaráus,

Him who was shown by Apollo and Zeus that beareth the aegis

245

Every manner of love. Eld's threshold still he attained not,

Since that he perished at Thebes through gifts to a treacherous woman.

Amphiaraus was father of Antilochus and Alcmaeon.

Two sons Mantius also begat, Polypheides and Cleitus.

Cleitus was taken from earth by the Morning, the golden-enthronéd,

250

All for his beauty's sake—and he dwelleth amid the immortals,

While that the high-souled prince Polypheides was made by Apollo

Greatest of seers, since living no longer was Amphiaraus.

He to the town Hyperesia moved, enraged with his father;

Here did he make him a home and predicted the future for all men.

255

Now it was this man's son, Theoclymenus named, who approaching

Closely to Telemachus, stood there at his side and beheld him

Pouring libation and praying beside of his swift black vessel.

Then he uplifted his voice and with swift-winged words he addressed him

"Friend, since just in the act of performing oblation I find thee,

260

Lo, by thy gift to the god and the deity's self I beseech thee,

Yea and thy life and the lives of the men that attend thee as shipmates,

Answer me truly the question I ask thee, nor try to conceal it,

Whence and what mortal thou beest. Tell too of thy city and parents."

Him sage Telemachus addressing in turn made answer

265

"Yea, O stranger, the truth will I tell thee and plainly declare it.

Ithaca's isle is the land of my birth, and my sire is Odysseus—

Were he alive!—but alas, by a grievous doom he is perished.

Wherefore now I am come with my men and my black-hulled vessel

Tidings to seek of my sire who so long is away from his homeland."

270

Then did the godlike seer Theoclymenus answer him saying:

"I too wander afar—for I murdered a man in my homeland,

One of my tribe, that hath many a brother and many a kinsman

There in the horse-rich pastures of Argos—Achaeans of station.

Fearing their vengeance, before that the darkness of death overtook me,

275

Thence I am fled, and am fated from people to people to wander.

Give me a place on thy ship—as a fugitive, lo, I beseech thee!—

Lest they shall slay me; for closely, methinks, do they follow behind me."

Him sage Telemachus addressing in turn gave answer:

"Nay, if thou wishest it, ne'er will I drive thee away from my vessel.

280

Come with us! Also at home thou art welcome to all we can give thee."

These words uttered, the brass-bound spear from the hand of the stranger

Taking, he laid it reclined on the deck of the twy-beaked galley.

Then embarking aboard of the ocean-voyaging vessel

Nigh to the steerage he sat him adown, and closely beside him

285

Bade Theoclymenus sit, and the shipmates loosened the hawser.

Forthwith Telemachus uproused and commanded his comrades

Set their hands to the gear, and they speedily rose and obeyed him.

Raising the pinewood mast to its height, in the cleft of the cross-bar

Firmly they fixed it, and bracing it taut to the prow with the forestays

290

Hoisted the fair white sails with the ropes tight-twisted of oxhide.

Sent was a favouring breeze by the grey-eyed goddess Athene,

Sweeping with vehement gusts thro' a clear blue sky, that the vessel

Over the salt sea water with speed might finish her journey.

Soon past Crouni they sailed and the beautiful river of Chalcis,

295

Till, when the sun sank down and darkened was every roadway,

Sped by the breezes of Zeus she was near to the haven of Pheae,

Then passed Elis the wonderful land where rule the Epeans.

Thence to the Pinnacled Isles he directed the course of the vessel,

Wondering whether his death were lying before him or safety.

300

Now in the hut was Odysseus again with the good old swineherd

Sitting at supper, and all of the farmyard fellows beside them,

Till, when at last they had lost all pleasure in meat and the wine-cup,

Then in the midst did Odysseus begin, thus testing the swineherd

Whether he still was inclined to entreat him with kindness and bid him

305

There to remain at the farm or to urge him to visit the city:

"List to my words, Eumaeus, and all of you others, his fellows!

Early the morn I am minded to get me adown to the city;

There will I beg, lest here both master and men I shall ruin.

Give me advice and vouchsafe me a guide right trusty to lead me

310

Unto the city. Within it alone I shall fare, as I needs must,

Wandering round in the hope that a cup or a crust will be offered.

Also I mean to arrive at the palace of godlike Odysseus,

There to relate what I know to the wise-souled Penelopeia,

Ay and moreover am fain to apply to the insolent suitors

315

Whether a meal they'll give me from all their boundless provisions.

Easily might I supply them with service, whatever was wished for,

Since (and of this I assure thee and I beg thee to listen and mark me)

Under the favour of Hermes the herald of heaven, who alway

Crowneth the labour of men with the guerdon of grace and of glory,

320

Such is my deftness in serving no mortal can hope to excel me

Either at skilfully building a fire or in cleaving the fuel,

Ay or at carving or roasting the meat or at brimming the wine-cup,

Duties at which great folk have service of men that be meaner."

Him then in heavy displeasure addressed Eumaeus the swineherd:

325

"Out and alas! how comes it, my friend, such thought is arisen

Now in thy mind? By my troth, thou'rt utterly set on perdition,

Thus intending to venture thyself in the rout of the suitors,

Whose fierce insolence reacheth aloft to the brazen heaven.

Underlings such as thyself these men keep not to attend them;

330

Striplings they have, all finely apparelled in mantles and tunics;

Gleaming with oil is the head and comely the face when a servant

Serveth the men at a feast; and the polished banqueting-tables

Ever with bread and with flesh and with wine groan heavily laden.

Nay but abide with us still! There's none that is harmed by thy presence,

335

Neither myself nor another of all of my fellows who live here.

Willst thou await the return of the well-loved son of Odysseus,

He will be ready to clothe thee in raiment, in mantle and tunic,

Ay and will send thee wherever thy heart and thy spirit shall call thee."

Him gave answer at once long-suffering godlike Odysseus :

340

"Would, Eumaeus, that Zeus our Father may love thee as I do,

Since thou hast given me rest from my roamings and terrible hardships.

Nought is an evil for man more sad than to rove as an outcast ;

Yet for the belly—accursed thing !—full many an insult

Beareth a man when he suffers as wanderer pain and privation.

345

Well now, seeing thou holdest me here, and biddst me await him,

Give to me tidings, I pray, of the mother of godlike Odysseus,

Yea and his sire, whom he left on the threshold of eld when he parted.

Are they alive peradventure and still in the realm of the sunlight?

Are they departed already to dwell in the mansion of Hades?"

350

Forthwith answering spake Eumaeus master of swineherds :

"Well, O stranger, the truth will I tell thee and plainly declare it.

Touching Laertes—he liveth; but Zeus he is ever imploring

Out of his body to wither his soul in the halls of his homestead,

So unspeakably mourns he the son that is gone and is vanished,

355

Yea and the wife of his youth, wise Anticleia—for sorely

Grieved he at heart when she died, and to eld untimely it brought him.

She too perished of grief for her son for the noble Odysseus.

Grievous indeed was her death, and I pray none other may end so,

None that is dwelling anigh and is friendly in word and in action.

360

Now while yet she was living on earth, though living in sorrow,

Still was it ever my joy to inquire and learn of her welfare,

Since as her child she had loved and with long-robed Ctímene reared me—

Ctímene, tall fair maiden, the youngest of all of her children—

Reared us together, and little she honoured me less than her daughter.

365

Now when we both had arrived at the season of love and of beauty

Her for a countless treasure they sent to a Samian chieftain;

Me did my lady—whenas she had given me mantle and tunic,

Beautiful raiment to clothe me withal, and had shod me in sandals—

Send to the farm; but she loved me at heart still more than aforetime.

370

Now is my happiness vanished away; but the blesséd immortals

Prosper the work of my hands—this task that I alway attend to;

Yea and enough is my food and my drink, and I give to the honest.

Still, I am able to gain no pleasant news of my mistress

Neither by word nor deed—for the house by a plague is infested,

375

Even this insolent horde; and a thrall hath greatly the longing

Now and again with his lady to speak and to learn what is needed,

Ay and to get him a meal and a drink, and a trifle to carry

Back to the farm—such trifles as comfort the heart of a servant."

Him then in turn thus answered and spake deep-plotting Odysseus:

380

"Heav'ns! how far thou hast wandered when small, Eumaeus the swineherd,

E'n as a child so far from thy native land and thy parents!

Come now, tell me the thing that I ask thee and clearly explain it.

Perished the wide-way'd city of warriors, pillaged by foemen,

Where was the dwelling-place of thy sire and his lady, thy mother?

385

Or in a lonesome spot while tending the sheep or the oxen

Captured by hostile men wast thou carried aboard and exported

Unto the home of this master of thine, who purchased thee dearly?"

Forthwith answering spake Eumaeus master of swineherds:

"Since, O stranger, thou fain wouldst hear of this matter and learn it,

390

Listen in silence and make thee at ease, and quaff of the wine-cup

There as thou sittest. The night at this season is endless; for sleeping

Time is enough, and to feast or to list to a tale—and thou needst not

Lay thee to slumber before it is time. Much sleep is a mischief.

Touching the others, whoever is bid by his heart and his spirit

395

Now can depart to his bed, and as soon as the morning appeareth,

After his breakfast is done, let him follow the swine of the master.

We two here in the cottage remaining, and drinking and feasting,

Each will delight him in hearing the toils and the griefs of the other,

While we relate of the past since trouble is sweet to remember,

400

After it ends, for a man that hath wandered afar and hath suffered.

So I will tell thee of all that thou fain wouldst learn of the matter.

There is an isle Syrië (thou hast heard its name peradventure)

Past the Ortygian isle, where pauseth the sun and returneth;

Not so exceedingly full is the island of folk, but is fertile,

405

Richly abounding in flocks and in herds and in corn and in vineyards.

Famine hath never invaded the land, nor ever another

Pestilence such as afflicts poor mortals grievously ofttimes.

Here when the folk that inhabit the land grow agéd and feeble,

Then with his silvern bow, and with Artemis, cometh Apollo,

410

Launching his painless bolts, and assails them and suddenly slays them.

Towns in the isle are twain, and the whole is divided amongst them.

Over the one and the other alike ruled solely my father,

Ctesius Ormenides, who a god everlasting resembled.

Once came hither a crew of the famed Phoenician sea-folk,

415

Hucksters with countless trinkets and gauds in their black-hulled vessel.

Now in the house of my sire was a young Phoenician woman

Comely and tall and endowed with a deftness in exquisite handwork.

Her with their wileful ways these sly Phoenicians cheated.

Firstly, anigh to the hollow ship, as she tended the washing

420

One of them met her and won her by love—such love as deceiveth

Often the womanly heart, yea even of her that is upright.

Then, as the fellow demanded her name and the name of her homeland,

Straight she confessed it, describing the high-roofed house of her father:

'Native of Sidon, the city abounding in bronze, I avow me,

425

Daughter of Arybas—one who was lavishly dowered with riches.

Taphians stole me away—sea-roving robbers, who caught me

While from the fields I was coming. They carried me over the ocean

Here to the home of this master of mine; and he paid for me dearly.'

Then did the man who in secret had won her address her in answer:

430

'Say now, wouldst thou be willing to come with us back to thy homeland,

Unto the high-roofed house of thy father and mother, and see them,

Even themselves? for I know them to live and be famed for their riches.'

Then did the woman address him again, and she answered him saying

'Ay, 'twere possible so, if ye all were willing, ye sailors,

435

Surely to promise on oath to convey me unharmed to my homeland.'

Thus did she speak, and they all of them promised on oath, as she bade them.

Then, so soon as they gave her the oath and had finished the plighting,

Spake once more to the sailors the woman and answered them saying:

'Now keep silence! Let none of you venture a word to address me,

440

None of the crew, if we pass in the street of the village, or haply

Meet at the fountain, for fear lest somebody go and relate it

Unto the master at home, and the old man, growing suspicious,

Straitly confine me in bonds and devise some plan to destroy you.

Keep ye the matter in mind. Push forward the purchase of cargo.

445

Then, when at last your vessel is freighted with store of provisions,

Speedily send to the palace a message to tell me the tidings.

Gold I will bring you—whatever shall come to the reach of my fingers;

Ay and besides, for my fare, I am willing to make you a present.

There is a child of the goodman I serve as his nurse in the palace—

450

Such a precocious chit on my walks comes trotting beside me.

Him I shall manage to whele aboard; and a profit enormous

Sure he will bring, wherever to foreign folk ye export him.'

These words spoken, the woman returned to the beautiful mansion.

Now for the whole of a year did the sailors, abiding amongst us,

455

Traffic and lade on the hollow ship great store of provisions.

Then, when at last their vessel was freighted and ready for sailing,

One of them bearing a message they sent to report to the woman.

So he arrived—sly fellow—and entered the house of my father

Bringing a necklace of gold that with droplets of amber was beaded.

460

Now as the maiden attendants and also their lady, my mother

Crowded around in the hall to examine and handle the trinket,

Bidding their prices, he silently gave to the woman the signal.

After the sign he had made to the hollow ship he departed.

Taking me then by the hand she conducted me forth, and it happened,

465

Passing the porch of the house, she discovered the tables and goblets

Left by the guests, who had there on my sire been paying attendance—

These to the session had gone and the place of the people's assembly.

So three goblets she took and concealing them well in her bosom

Carried them off—and I went with the woman in innocent folly.

470

Set was already the sun and darkened was every roadway

Ere to the far-famed haven we came though urgently hasting—

Where was at anchor the vessel of those Phoenician seamen.

Forthwith now they embarked, and they took us aboard and departed,

Sailing the watery ways with a stern-wind sent by the Father.

475

Six days long did we sail—and by night no less than by daytime—

Till when the light of a seventh was added by Father Cronion

Suddenly smit was the woman by Artemis, darter of arrows;

Into the bilge down-dropping she plunged as a gull of the ocean.

Her dead body, to serve as a spoil for the seals and the fishes,

480

Out of the vessel they cast; and with desolate heart I was left there,

Till on the Ithacan isle by the wind and the currents of ocean

Wafted we happ'd; and there I was bought by the wealth of Laertes.

So did I come to behold this land on the which I am dwelling.”

Then did Odysseus the offspring of Zeus thus answer him saying:

485

"Ah, Eumaeus, profoundly thou stirrest the spirit within me,

Telling the tale of thy life—of the toils and the woes thou hast suffered.

Natheless unto the evil hath Zeus much happiness added

Bringing thee after thy perils and toils to the home of a master

Kindly a master that gives thee of food and of drink in abundance,

490

Tending thee well. 'Tis a life right pleasant thou livest—but, ah me !

Ere I arrived I had roamed through many a city of mortals!"

Thus these twain, as they sat, held converse one with another.

Then did they lay them to sleep, for a space not long, but a little.

Soon rose Morning enthroned in her glory.

495

And now on the sea-shore

495

Telemachus and his men were striking the sails, and the mast-tree

Quickly they lowered, and pulled with the oars to her moorings the vessel,

Then cast sleepers, and after the stern they had fastened with cables

Out of the vessel they stepped on the surf-beat strand of the ocean,

Where they prepared them a meal; and they mingled them fiery red wine.

500

Then, when at last they had lost all pleasure in meat and the wine-cup,

Spake sage Telemachus, and thus he began to address them :

"Ye now hasten ahead to the town with the black-hulled vessel!

Touching myself, I am going to visit the farms and the herdsmen.

After inspecting the fields I shall come to the city at nightfall.

505

Early the morn I shall offer, as wages due for the voyage,

Lavish abundance of meat and of savoury wine for a banquet."

Then did the godlike seer Theoclýmenus answer him saying:

"Ay but for me, dear child where now shall I go? In his mansion

Which of thy rockbound Ithaca's chieftains will offer me shelter?

510

Willst thou I make me my way forthwith to thy home and thy mother?"

Him sage Telemachus addressing in turn made answer

"Were it but elsewise, yes—to the home of my fathers I'd bid thee

Straight to proceed; for it fails not in welcome to guests; but thou mightst there

Evilly fare, for I thence shall be absent myself, and my mother

515

Ne'er will behold thee; for little she cares in the halls with the suitors

Oft to appear, but alone in her upper apartment she weaveth.

Nay, I will name thee another—a man would give thee a welcome.

Eurymachus he is called, wise Polybus' glorious offspring.

He as a god by the people of Ithaca now is regarded,

520

Being a man far better than all of the rest; and he greatly

Longeth my mother to win and to rule in the stead of Odysseus.

Ah but the Father alone who dwells on the heights of Olympus

Knows if he first will vouchsafe them espousals or utter destruction."

Scarce had he spoken when, lo, on the right came flying a falcon,

525

Messenger bird of Apollo, the soaring hawk, in his talons

Clutching and tearing a dove; and to earth fell floating the feathers

'Twixt where Telemachus was reclining and beached was his vessel ;

Whom then apart from the rest of the men Theoclýmenus calling,

Gave him a clasp of the hand, as he opened his lips and addressed him :

530

"Sure as a sign from a god on the right came flying the falcon!

Yae and as soon as I saw it I knew that the bird was an omen.

Telemachus, more royal than yours no race is existing

Here in the Ithacan land; ye shall aye be established in power."

Him sage Telemachus addressing in turn made answer

535

"Stranger, I pray for the word thou hast spoken to find a fulfilment ;

Then shalt thou speedily find both friendship and many a present

Come from me—such that whoever shall meet thee will hold thee as blesséd."

These words spoken, he called Peiraeus, his trusty companion :

"Clytius' son, Peiraeus, of all thou'rt ever the foremost

540

Me to obey—of the men that as shipmates followed to Pylos.

Now too listen, and take our friend as a guest to thy homestead!

Carefully tend him and kindly entreat him until my arrival!"

Straight did the spearman renowned, Peiraeus, address him in answer:

"Telemachus, yea surely; and thinkest thou long to remain here,

545

Still he shall stay as my guest, nor ever be wanting in welcome."

These words uttered he mounted the vessel and called to his comrades,

Bidding them also embark and unloose from the moorings the cables.

Then did they get them aboard and they took their seats on the benches.

Telemachus meanwhile on his feet bound beautiful sandals,

550

Also his spear bronze-bladed and mighty, of terrible keenness,

Took from the deck; and the men made loose from the moorings the cables.

Then out-thrusting they sailed for the town, as the prince had commanded,

Even the well-loved son of the hero, godlike Odysseus.

Him on his way bare swiftly his feet, till he came to the farmstead

555

Where was the numberless drove of his swine, and the good old swineherd

Watching them even by night, with devotion true to his masters.

Homer Odyssey 15.454

Search the Perseus Catalog for:

Current edition Experimental

ODYSSEY BOOK XV

PATTEN WILSON.
“FAREWELL TO YOU BOTH, YOUNG MEN!”

Stable identifiers

Search the Perseus Catalog for:

Search the Perseus Catalog for:

Current edition Experimental

ODYSSEY BOOK XV

PATTEN WILSON. “FAREWELL TO YOU BOTH, YOUNG MEN!”

Stable identifiers

PATTEN WILSON.
“FAREWELL TO YOU BOTH, YOUNG MEN!”