UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA AT LOS ANGELES gNIVEKSTTY of K)KNl£ U)S ANGELES / LIBRARY 42f S i 20 3 > * THE ILIAD OF HOMER RENDERED INTO ENGLISH BLANK VERSE. BY EDWARD EARL OF DERBY. IN TWO VOLUMES. VOL. I. THIRD EDITION. FBOM THE FIFTH REVISED ENGLISH EDITION. NEW YOKK: CHARLES SCRIBKER & CO., 654 BROADWAY. 1869. 1 VA V, TO HI3 KOYAL HIGHNESS ALBERT EDWARD PRIXOE OF WALES. K.G. <&S. &fi. &c. THIS TRANSLATION OF THE ILIAD OF HOMER KOYAX, HIGHNESS'S GRACIOUS PI v/rrn profound respect and dutiful, attachment HUMBLY DEDICATED. PREFACE. jS In the spring of 1862 I was induced, at the ^ request of some personal friends, to print, for private circulation only, a small volume of ** "Translations of Poems Ancient and Modern," in which was included the first Book of the Iliad. The opinions expressed by some compe- tent judges of the degree of success which had attended this " attempt to infuse into an almost literal English version something of the spirit, as well as the simplicity, of the great original,"* were sufficiently favourable to encourage me to continue the work which I had begun. It has afforded me, in the intervals of more urgent business, an unfailing, and constantly increasing source of interest ; and it is not without a feel- ing of regret at the completion of my task, and • Introduction to unpublished volume. vi PEEFACE. a sincere diffidence as to its success, that I ven- ture to submit the result of ray labour to the ordeal of public criticism. Various causes, irrespective of any demerits of the work itself, forbid me to anticipate for this translation any extensive popularity. First, I fear that the taste for, and appreciation of, Classical Literature, arc greatly on the decline ; next, those who have kept up their classical studies, and are able to read and enjoy the original, will hardly take an interest in a mere translation ; while the English reader, unacquain- ted with Greek, will naturally prefer the harmoni- ous versification and polished brilliancy of Pope's translation ; with which, as a happy adaptation of the Homeric story to the spirit of English poetry, I have not the presumption to enter into compe- tition. But, admirable as it is, Pope's Iliad can hardly be said to bo Homer's Iliad ; and there may be some who, having lost the familiarity with the original language which they once sessed, may, if I have at all succeeded in my attempt, have recalled to their minds a faint our'd the crowd, Both foot and horse ; and loud the tumult rose. 930 Before the city stands a lofty mound, In the mid plain, by open space enclos'd ; Men call it Batirea ; but the Gods The tomb of swift Myrinna ; muster'd there 940 80 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book II The Trojans and Allies their troops array'd. The mighty Hector of the glancing helm, The son of Priam, led the Trojan host : The largest and the bravest band were they, Bold spearmen all, who follow'd him in arms. 045 4 Anchises' valiant son, _zEneas, led The Dardans ; him, 'mid Ida's jutting peaks, Immortal Yenus to Anchises bore, A Goddess yielding to a mortal's love : With him, well skill'd in war, Archilochus 950 And Acamas, Antenor's gallant sons. Who in Zeleia dwelt, at Ida's foot, Of Trojan race, a wealthy tribe, who drank Of dark ^Esepus' waters, these were led By Pandarus, Lycaon's noble son, 955 Taught by Apollo's self to draw the bow. WTio from Adraste, and Apeesus' realm, From Pityeia, and the lofty hill Tereian came, with linen corslets girt, Adrastus and Amphius led ; two sons 960 Of Merops of Percote ; deeply vers'd Was he in prophecy ; and from the war BookIL HOMER'S ILIAD. 81 Would fain have kept his sons ; but they, by fate, Doom'd to impending death, his caution scorn'd. Those who from Practium and Pereote came, 935 And who in Sestos and Abydos dwelt, And in Arisba fair ; those Asius led, . The son of Hyrtacus, of heroes chief ; Asius the son of Hyrtacus, who came From fair Arisba, borne by fiery steeds 970 Of matchless size and strength, from Selles' stream. Hippothous led the bold Pelasgian tribes, "Who dwell in rich Larissa's fertile soil, Hippothous and Pylseus, Lethus' sons, The son of Teutamus, Pelasgian chief. 975 The Thracians, by fast-flowing Hellespont Encompass'd, Acamas and Peirous brave ; The spear-skill'd Cicones JEuphemus led, Son of Trcezenus, Ceus' highborn son. From distant Amydon Pyrsecmes brought 980 The Paeon archers from broad Axius' banks ; Axius, the brightest stream on earth that flows. The hairy strength of great Pylaemenes The Paphlagonians led from Eneti 82 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book II X ("Whence first appear'd the stubborn race of mules), Who in Cytorus and in Sesamum, 98G And round Parthenius' waters had their home ; Who dwelt in Cromne, and iEgialus, And on the lofty Erythinian rock. By Iiodius and Epistrophus were brought 990 From distant Alybe, the wealthy source Of silver ore, the Alizonian bands. Chromis the Mysians led, and Ennomus ; A skilful augur, but his augury From gloomy death to save him nought avail'd ; 995 Slain by the son of Peleus, in the stream, "Where many another Trojan felt his arm. From far Ascania's lake, with Phorcys join'd, The godlike presence of Ascanius brought The Phrygians, dauntless in the standing fight. 1000 From Lydia came Pylasmenes' two sons, Born of the lake Gygeian ; Antiphus, And Mesthles ; these Maeonia's forces led, Who dwelt around the foot of Tmolus' hill. In charge of Pastes came the Carian troops, 1005 Of barbarous speech ; who in Miletus dwelt, Book II. HOMER'S ILIAD. 83 And in the dense entangled forest shade Of Phthira's hill, and on the lofty ridge Of Mycale, and by Masander's stream ; These came with ISTastes and Amphimacns ; 1010 Amphimacns and Nastes, Nomion's sons ; With childish folly to the war he came, Laden with store of gold ; yet nought avail'd His gold to save him from the doom of death ; Slain by the son of Pelens in the stream ; 1015 And all his wealth Achilles bore away. Sarpedon last, and valiant Glancns led The Lycian bands, from distant Lycia's shore, Beside the banks of Xantlms' eddying stream. 1019 NOTE. Line 253. — The text of the original leaves it somewhat in doubt whether the anger of the Greeks were directed against Thersite= or Agamemnon. I believe the preponderance of authority, ancient and modern, is in favour of the former interpretation ; but the lat- ter is not without the support of some eminent scholars, and after much consideration I have been induced to adopt it. The original represents the Greeks as filled with anger and resentment against some one. Thersites was an object of general contempt, but he had done nothing to excite those feelings : indeed, apart from the of- fensiveness of his tone, the public sympathy was with him ; for the army was deeply dissatisfied, and resented the conduct of Aga- memnon against Achilles, mainly perhaps because they had ceased to be enriched with the plunder of his successful forays (see i. 202, and ix. 387). This dissatisfaction and resentment are referred to by Neptune (xiii. 126), and by Agamemnon himself (xiv. 55). They had lately manifested themselves in the alacrity with which the whole army had caught at the insidious suggestion of abandoning the war ; and, just before the second assembly, Thersites avails himself of the general feeling, constituting himself the representa- tive of a popular grievance, to vent his personal spite against Agamemnon. Ulysses saw how dangerous such a display might be at such a moment; and artfully assuming (line 281) that the feeling was confined to Thersites alone (though in his subsequent speech, line 335, he admits and excuses the general discontent), he proceeds to cut short its expression by summary chastisement. Thereupon the fickle multitude, "despite their anger" (against Agamemnon), cannot refrain from laughing at the signal discom- fiture of their self-constituted champion. This view is very fully set forth in a note on the passage appended to a translation of the Iliad by Mr. Barter, published in 1859, but which I have only seen since the publication of this work. ARGUMENT. THE DUEL OF MENELATJS AND PARIS. Tlie armies being ready to engage, a single combat is agreed upon, between Meneliins and Paris (by the intervention of Hector) for the determination of the war. Iris is sent to call Helen to be- hold the fight. She leads her to the walls of Troy, where Priam sat with his counsellors, observing the Grecian leaders on the plain below, to whom Helen gives an account of the chief of them. The kings on either part take the solemn oath for the conditions of the combat. The duel ensues, wherein Paris being overcome, is snatched away in a cloud by Venus, and transported to his apartment. She then calls Helen from the walls, and brings the lovers together. Agamemnon, on the part of the Gre- cians, demands the restoration of Helen, and the performance of the articles. The three-and-twentieth day stfll continues throughout this book. The scene is sometimes in the field before Troy, and sometimes in Troy itself. Book III. HOMER'S ILIAD. SI BOOK III. TlTHElSr by their sev'ral chiefs the troops were rang'd, "With noise and clamour, as a flight of birds, The men of Troy advanc'd ; as when the cranes, Flying the wintry storms, send forth on high Their dissonant clamours, while o'er the ocean stream 5 They steer their course, and on their pinions bear Battle and death to the Pygmsean race. On th' other side the Greeks in silence mov'd, Breathing firm courage, bent on mutual aid. As when the south wind o'er the mountain tops 10 Spreads a thick veil of mist, the shepherd's bane, And friendly to the nightly thief alone, That a stone's throw the range of vision bounds ; So rose the dust-cloud, as in serried ranks With rapid step they mov'd across the plain. 15 But when th' opposing forces near were met, A panther's skin across his shoulders flung, 88 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book in Arm'd with his bow and sword, in front of all Advanc'd the godlike Paris ; in his hand He pois'd two brass-tipp'd jav'lins, and defied 20 To mortal combat all the chiefs of Greece. Him when the warlike Meneliius saw "With haughty strides advancing from the crowd ; As when a lion, Irnnger-pinch'd, espies Some mighty beast of chase, or antler'd stag, 25 Or mountain goat, and with exulting spring Strikes down his prey, and on the carcase feeds, Unscar'd by baying hounds and eager youths : So Menelaus saw with fierce delight The godlike Paris ; for he deem'd that now 30 His vengeance was at hand ; and from his car, Arm'd as he was, he leap'd upon the plain. But when the godlike Paris saw him spring Defiant from the ranks, with quailing heart, Back to his comrades' shelt'ring crowd he sprang, 35 In fear of death ; as when some trav'ller sjries, Coil'd in his path upon the mountain side, A deadly snake, back he recoils in haste, ITis limbs all trembling, and his cheek all pale ; Hook III. HOMER'S ILIAD. 89 So back recoil'd, in fear of Atreus' son, 40 The godlike Paris 'mid the Trojan host. To whom in stern rebuke thus Hector spoke : " Thou wretched Paris, though in form so fair, Thou slave of woman, manhood's counterfeit ! "Would thou hadst ne'er been born, or died at least 45 Unwedded ; so 'twere better far for all, Than thus to live a scandal and reproach. "Well may the long-hair'd Greeks triumphant boast, Who think thee, from thine outward show, a chief Among our warriors ; but thou hast in truth 50 Nor strength of mind, nor courage in the fight. How was't that such as thou could e'er induce A noble band, in ocean-going ships To cross the main, with men of other lands Mixing in amity, and bearing thence 55 A woman, fair of face, by marriage ties Bound to a race of warriors ; to thy sire, Thy state, thy people, cause of endless grief, Of triumph to thy foes, contempt to thee ! Durst thou the warlike Menelaus meet, 60 Thou to thy cost shouldst learn the might of him 90 HOMEE'S ILIAD. Book IIL "Whose bride thou didst not fear to bear away : Then shouldst thou find of small avail thy lyre, Or Yenus' gifts of beauty and of grace, Or, trampled in the dust, thy flowing hair. 65 But too forbearing are the men of Troy ; Else for the ills that thou hast wrought the state, Ere now thy body had in stone been cas'd." To whom the godlike Paris thus replied : " Hector, I needs must own thy censure just, 70 Nor without cause ; thy dauntless courage knows 1ST or pause nor weariness ; but as an axe, That in a strong man's hand, who fashions out Some naval timber, with unbated edge Cleaves the firm wood, and aids the striker's force ; 75 Ev'n so unwearied is thy warlike soul. Yet blame not me for golden Yenus' gifts : The gifts of Heav'n are not to be despis'd, Which Heav'n may give, but man could not command. But if thou wilt that I should dare the fight, 80 Bid that the Trojans and the Grecians all Be seated on the ground ; and in the midst The warlike Menelaus and myself Book HI. HOMER'S ILIAD. 91 Stand front to front, for Helen and the spoils Of war to combat ; and whoe'er shall prove . S5 The better man in conflict, let him bear The woman and the spoils in triumph home ; While ye, the rest, in peace and friendship sworn, Shall still possess the fertile plains of Troy ; And to their native Argos they return, 90 Eor noble steeds and lovely women fam'd." He said, and Hector joy'd to hear his words : Forth in tbe midst he stepp'd, and with his spear Grasp'd by the middle, stay'd the Trojan ranks. At him the long-haired Grecians bent their bows, 95 Prompt to assail with arrows and with stones ; But loud the monarch Agamemnon's voice Was heard ; " Hold, Argives, hold ! ye sons of Greece, Shoot not ! for Hector of the glancing helm Hath, as it seems, some message to impart." 100 He said ; they held their hands, and silent stood Expectant, till to both thus Hector spoke : " Hear now, ye Trojans, and ye well-greav'd Greeks, The words of Paris, cause of all this war. He asks through me that all the host of Troy 105 92 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book IIL And Grecian warriors shall upon the ground Lay down their glitt'ring arms ; while in the midst The warlike Meneliius and himself Stand front to front, for Helen and the spoils Of war to combat ; and whoe'er shall prove 110 The better man in conflict, let him bear The woman and the spoils in triumph home, While we, the rest, firm peace and friendship swear." Thus Hector spoke ; the rest in silence heard ; But Menelaus, bold in fight, replied : 115 " Hear now my answer ; in this quarrel I May claim the chiefest share ; and now I hope Trojans and Greeks may see the final close Of all the labours ye so long have borne T' avenge my wrong, at Paris' hand sustain'd. 120 And of us two whiche'er is doom'd to death, So let him die ! the rest, depart in peace. Bring then two lambs, one white, the other black, For Tellus and for Sol ; we on our part Will bring another, for Satnrnian Jove : 125 And let the majesty of Priam too Appear, himself to consecrate our oaths, Book in. HOMER'S ILIAD. 93 (For reckless are liis sons, and void of faith,) That none Jove's oath may dare to violate. For young men's spirits are too quickly stirr'd ; 1 30 But in the councils check'd by rev'rend age, Alike are weigh'd the future and the past, And for all int'rests due provision made." He said, and Greeks and Trojans gladly heard, In hopes of respite from the weary war. 135 They rang'd the cars in ranks ; and they themselves Descending doff'd their arms, and laid them down Close each by each, with narrow space between. Two heralds to the city Hector sent To bring the lambs, and aged Priam call ; 140 "While Agamemnon to the hollow ships, Their lamb to bring, in haste Talthybius sent : He heard, and straight the monarch's voice obey'd. Meantime to white-arm'd Helen Iris sped, The heav'nly messenger : in form she seem'd 145 Her husband's sister, whom Antenor's son, The valiant Helicaon had to wife, Laodice, of Priam's daughters all Loveliest of face : she in her chamber found 94 HOIEE'S ILIAD. Book IIL Her whom she sought : a mighty web she wove, 150 Of double woof and brilliant hues ; whereon Was interwoven many a toilsome strife Of Trojan warriors and of brass-clad Greeks, For her encounter'd at the hand of Mars. Beside her Iris stood, and thus she spoke : 155 '•' Come, sister dear, and see the glorious deeds Of Trojan warriors and of brass-clad Greeks. They who ere while, impatient for the fight, Roll'd o'er the plain the woful tide of war, !Now silent sit, the storm of battle hush'd, 160 Reclining on their shields, their lances bright Beside them reared ; while Paris in the midst And warlike Menelaus, stand prepar'd With the long spear for thee to fight ; thyself The prize of conquest and the victor's wife." 165 Thus as she spoke, in Helen's breast arose Fond recollection of her former Lord, Her home, and parents ; o'er her head she threw A snowy veil ; and shedding tender tears She issu'd forth, not unaccompanied ; 170 For with her went fair JEthra, Pittheus' child book ill. HOMER'S ILIAD. 95 And stag-ey'd Clymene, her maidens twain. They quickly at the Sccean gate arriv'd. Attending there on aged Priam, sat, The Elders of the city ; Panthous, 175 And Lampus, and Tlrymsetes ; Clytius, Bold Icetaon, and Ucalegon, "With sage Antenor, wise in council both : All these were gather'd at the Screan gate ; By age exempt from war, but in discourse 180 Abundant, as the cricket, that on high From topmost boughs of forest tree sends forth His delicate music ; so on Ilium's tow'rs Sat the sage chiefs and councillors of Troy. Helen they saw, as to the tow'r she came ; 185 And " 'tis no marvel," one to other said, " The valiant Trojans and the well-greav'd Greeks For beauty such as this should long endure The toils of war ; for goddess-like she seems ; And yet, despite her beauty, let her go, 190 Nor bring on us and on our sons a curse." Thus they ; but aged Priam Helen call'd : " Come here, my child, and sitting by my side, 96 IIOMEE'S ILIAD. Book IIL From whence thou canst discern thy former Lord, His kindred, and thy friends (not thee I blame, 195 But to the Gods I owe this woful war), Tell me the name of yonder mighty chief Among the Greeks a warrior brave and strong : Others in height surpass him ; but my eyes A form so noble never yet beheld, 200 Nor so august ; he moves, a King indeed !" To whom in answer, Helen, heav'nly fair : " With rev'rence, dearest father, and with shame I look on thee : oh would that I had died That day when hither with thy son I came, 205 And left my husband, friends, and darling child, And all the lov'd companions of my youth : That I died not, with grief I pine away. But to thy question ; I will tell thee true ; Yon chief is Agamemnon, Atreus' son, 210 "Wide-reigning, mighty monarch, ruler good, And valiant warrior; in my husband's name, Lost as I am, I call'd him brother once." She spoke : th' old man admiring gaz'd, and cried, " Oh bless'd Atrides, child of happy fate, 215 Cook III. HOMER'S ILIAD. 97 Favour'd of Heav'n ! how many noble Greeks Obey thy rule ! In vine-clad Phrygia once I saw the hosts of Phrygian warriors wheel Their rapid steeds; and with them, all the bands Of Otreus, and of Mygdon, godlike King, 22<. Who lay encamp'd beside Sangarius' stream : I too with them was number'd, in the day When met them in the field the Amazons, The woman-warriors ; but their forces all Reach'd not the number of the keen-ey'd Greeks." 225 Ulysses next the old man saw, and ask'd, " Tell me again, dear child, who this may be, In stature less than Atreus' royal son, But broader-shoulder'd, and of ampler chest. His arms are laid upon the fertile plain, 230 But he himself is moving through the ranks, Inspecting, like a full-fleec'd ram, that moves Majestic through a flock of snow-white ewes." To whom Jove's offspring, Helen, thus replied : "The wise Ulysses that, Laertes' son : 235 Though bred in rugged Ithaca, yet vers'd [n ev'ry stratagem, and deep device." vol. i. n 98 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book III. " O woman," then the sage Antenor said, " Of these thy words I can the truth avouch ; For hither when on thine account to treat, 240 Brave Menelaus and Ulysses came, I lodg'd them in my house, and lov'd them both, And studied well the form and mind of each. As they with Trojans mix'd in social guise, When both were standing, o'er his comrade high 245 With broad-set shoulders Menelaus stood ; Seated, Ulysses was the nobler form : Then, in the great Assembly, when to all Their public speech and argument they fram'd, In fluent language Menelaus spoke, 250 In words though few, yet clear ; though young in years, No wordy babbler, wasteful of his speech : But when the skill' d Ulysses rose to speak, With down-cast visage would he stand, his eyes Bent on the ground ; the staff he bore, nor back 255 He wav'd, nor forward, but like one untaught, He held it motionless ; who only saw Would say that he was mad, or void of sense ; But when his chest its deep-ton'd voice sent forth, Book III. HOMEK'S ILIAD. 99 With words that fell like flakes of wintry snow, 260 No mortal with Ulysses could compare : Then little reck'd we of his outward show." At sight of Ajax next th' old man enquir'd ; "Who is yon other warrior, brave and strong, Tow'ring o'er all with head and shoulders broad V 265 To whom, in answer, Helen, heav'nly fair : " Gigantic Ajax that, the prop of Greece; And by his side Idomeneus of Crete Stands godlike, circled round by Cretan chiefs. The warlike Menelaus welcom'd him 270 Oft in our palace, when from Crete he came. Now all the other keen-ey'd Greeks I see, Whom once I knew, and now could call by name ; But two I miss, two captains of the host, My own two brethren, and my mother's sons, 275 Castor and Pollux ; Castor, charioteer Unrivalled, Pollux, matchless pugilist. In Laeedsemon have they stay'd behind ? Or can it be, in ocean-going ships That they have come indeed, but shun to join 2S0 The fight of warriors, fearful of the shame, 100 HOMEE'S ILIAD. Book III. And deep disgrace that on my name attend ? " Thus she ; but they beneath the teeming earth In Lacedsemon lay, their native land. Meanwhile the heralds through the city bore 285 The treaty off rings to the Gods ; the lambs, And genial wine, the produce of the soil, In goat-skin flasks : therewith a flagon bright, And cups of gold, Idseus brought, and stood Beside the aged King, as thus he spoke : 290 " Son of Laomedon, arise ! the chiefs Of Trojan warriors and of brass-clad Greeks Call for thy presence on the battle-plain To swear a truce ; where Paris in the midst And warlike Menelaus stand prepar'd '295 Wi th the long spear for Helen and the spoils Of war to combat, that whoe'er may prove The better man in fight,may bear away The woman and the spoils in triumph home ; While we, the rest, in peace and friendship sworn, 300 Shall still possess the fertile plains of Troy ; And to their native Argos they return, For noble steeds and lovely women fam'd." Book III. HOMEE'S ILIAD. 101 He said ; the old man shuddered at his words : But to his comrades gave command forthwith 305 To joke his car ; and they his word obey'd. Priam, ascending, gather' d up the reins, And with Antenor by his side, the twain Drove through the Scasan gate their flying steeds. But when between th' opposing ranks they came, Alighting from the car, they mov'd on foot 311 Between the Trojan and the Grecian hosts. Uprose then Agamemnon, King of men, Uprose the sage Ulysses ; to the front The heralds brought the off 'rings to the Gods, 315 And in the flagon mix'd the wine, and pour'd The hallowing water on the monarchs' hands. His dagger then the son of Atreus drew, Suspended, as was wont, beside the hilt Of his great sword ; and from the victim's head 320 He cut the sacred lock, which to the chiefs Of Troy and Greece the heralds portion'd out. Then with uplifted hands he pray'd aloud : " O Father Jove ! who rul'st from Ida's height, 324 Most great ! most glorious ! and thou Sun, who see'st 102 HOMEK'S ILIAD. Book IIL And nearest all things ! Eivers ! and thou Earth ! And ye, who after death beneath the earth Your vengeance wreak on souls of men forsworn, Be witness ye, and this our cov'nant guard. If Meneliius fall by Paris' hand, 330 Let him retain both Helen and the spoil, While in our ships we take our homeward way ; If Paris be by Menelaus slain, Troy shall surrender Helen and the spoil, "With compensation due to Greece, that so 335 A record may to future days remain. But, Paris slain, if Priam and his sons The promis'd compensation shall withhold, Then here, my rights in battle to assert, Will I remain, till I the end achieve." 340 Thus as he spoke, across the victims' throats He drew the pitiless blade, and on the ground He laid them gasping, as the stream of life Pour'cl forth, their vigour by the blade subdued. Then, from the flagon drawn, from out the cups 345 The wine they pour'd ; and to th' eternal Gods They pray'd ; and thus from Trojans and from Greeks Book in. HOMER'S ILIAD. 103 Arose the joint petition ; " Grant, O Jove ! Most great ! most glorious ! grant, ye heav'nly pow'rs, That whosoe'er this solemn truce shall break, 350 Ev'n as this wine we pom', their hearts' best blood, Theirs and their children's, on the earth be pour'd, And strangers in subjection take their wives ! " Thus they ; but Jove, unyielding, heard their pray'r. The rites perform'd, then aged Priam spoke : 355 " Hear me, ye Trojans, and ye well-greav'd Greeks ! To Ilium's breezy heights I now withdraw, For that mine eyes will not endure the sight Of warlike Menelaus and my son Engag'd in deadly combat ; of the two 360 "Which may be doom'd to death, is only known To Jove, and to th' immortal pow'rs of Heav'n." Thus spoke the godlike King ; and on the car He plac'd the consecrated lambs ; himself Ascending then, he gather'd up the reins, 365 And with Antenor by his side, the twain To Ilium's walls retrac'd their homeward way. Then Hector, son of Priam, measur'd out, With sage Ulysses join'd, th' allotted space ; 104 HOMEK'S ILIAD. Book HI ISText, in the brass-bound helmet cast the lots, 370 "Which of the two the first should throw the spear. The crowd, with hands uplifted, to the Gods, Trojans and Greeks alike, address'd their pray'r: " Father Jove ! who rul'st from Ida's height, Most great ! most glorious ! grant that whosoe'er 375 On both our armies hath this turmoil brought May undergo the doom of death, and we, The rest, firm peace and lasting friendship swear." Thus they ; great Hector of the glancing helm, "With eyes averted, shook the casque ; and forth 380 "Was cast the lot of Paris ; on the ground The rest lay down by ranks, where near to each Were rang'd his active steeds, and glitt'ring arms. Then o'er his shoulders fair-hair'd Helen's Lord, The godlike Paris, donn'd his armour bright : 385 First on his legs the well- wrought greaves he fix'd, Fasten'd with silver clasps ; his ample chest A breastplate guarded, by Lycaon lent, His brother, but which fitted well his form. Around his shoulders slung, his sword he bore, 390 Brass-bladed, silver-studded ; then his shield BookIII. HOMER'S ILIAD. 105 Weighty and strong ; and on his firm-set head A helm he wore, well wrought, with horsehair plume That nodded, fearful, o'er his "brow ; his hand Grasp'd the firm spear, familiar to his hold. 395 Prepar'd alike the adverse warrior stood. They, from the crowd apart their armour donn'd, Came forth : and each, with eyes of mutual hate, Regarded each : admirinsr wonder seiz'd The Trojan warriors and the well-greav'd Greeks, 400 As in the centre of the measur'd ground They stood oppos'd, and pois'd their quiv'ring spears. First Paris threw his weighty spear, and struck Fair in the midst Atrides' buckler round, But broke not through ; upon the stubborn targe 405 Was bent the lance's point ; then thus to Jove, His weapon hurling, Menelaus pray'd : " Great King, on him who wrought me causeless wrong, On Paris, grant that retribution due My arm may bring ; that men in days to come 410 May fear their host to injure, and repay With treach'rous wile his hospitable cares." He said, and poising, hurl'd his weighty spear : 106 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book III. Full in the midst it struck the buckler round ; 414 Right through the buckler pass'd the sturdy spear, And through the gorgeous breastplate, and within Cut through the linen vest ; but Paris, back Inclining, stoop'd, and shunn'd the doom of death. Atrides then his silver-studded sword Rearing on high, a mighty blow let fall 420 On Paris' helm ; but shiv'ring in his hand In countless fragments flew the faithless blade. Then thus to Jove, with eyes uplift to Ileav'n, Atrides made his moan : " O Father Jove ! Of all the Gods, the most unfriendly thou ! 425 On Paris' head I hop'd for all his crimes To wreak my vengeance due ; but in my grasp My faithless sword is shatter'd, and my spear Hath bootless left my hand, nor reached my foe." Then onward rushing, by the horsehair plume 430 He seiz'd his foeman's helm, and wrenching round Dragg'd by main force amid the well-greav'd Greeks. The broider'd strap, that, pass'd beneath his beard, The helmet held, the warrior's throat compress'd : Then had Atrides dragg'd him from the field, 435 book III. HOMER'S ILIAD. 107 And endless fame acquir'd ; but Yenus, child Of Jove, her fav'rite's peril quickly saw, A.nd broke the throttling strap of tough bull's hide. In the broad hand the empty helm remained. The trophy, by their champion whirl'd amid 440 The well-greav'd Greeks, his eager comrades seiz'd ; While he, infuriate, rush'd with murd'rous aim On Priam's son ; but him, the Queen of Love (As Gods can only) from the field convey'd, Wrapt in a misty cloud ; and on a couch, 445 Sweet perfumes breathing, gently laid him down ; Then went in search of Helen ; her she found, Circled with Trojan dames, on Ilium's tow'r : Her by her airy robe the Goddess held, And in the likeness of an aged dame 450 Who oft for her, in Sparta when she dwelt, Many a fair fleece had wrought, and lov'd her well, Address'd her thus : " Come, Helen, to thy house ; Come, Paris calls thee ; in his chamber he Expects thee, resting on luxurious couch, 455 In costly garb, with manly beauty grac'd : Not from the fight of warriors wouldst thou deem 108 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book in. • He late had come, but for the dance prepar'd, Or resting from the dance's pleasing toil." She said, and Helen's spirit within her mov'd ; 460 And when she saw the Goddess' beauteous neck, Her lovely bosom, and her glowing eyes, She gaz'd in wonder, and address'd her thus : " Oh why, great Goddess, make me thus thy sport ? Seek'st thou to bear me far away from hence 465 To some fair Phrygian or Mseonian town, If there some mortal have thy favour gain'd ? Or, for that Menelaus in the field Hath vanquish'd Paris, and is willing yet That I, his bane, should to his home return ; 470 Here art thou found, to weave again thy wiles ! Go then thyself ! thy godship abdicate ! Renounce Olympus ! lavish here on him Thy pity and thy care ! he may perchance Make thee his wife — at least his paramour ! 475 But thither go not I ! foul shame it were Again to share his bed ; the dames of Troy Will for a byword hold me ; and e'en now My soul with endless sorrow is possess'd." Book III. HOMEK'S ILIAD. 109 To whom in anger heav'nly Yenus spoke : 480 " Incense me not, poor fool ! lest I in wrath Desert thee quite, and as I heretofore Have lov'd, so make thee object of my hate ; And kindle, 'twixt the Trojans and the Greeks, Such bitter feuds, as both shall wreak on thee." 485 She said ; and trembled Helen, child of Jove ; She rose in silence ; in a snow-white veil All glitt'ring, shrouded ; by the Goddess led She pass'd, unnotic'd by the Trojan dames. But when to Paris' splendid house they came, 490 Thronging around her, her attendants gave Their duteous service ; through the lofty hall With queenly grace the godlike woman pass'd. A seat the laughter-loving Goddess plac'd By Paris' side ; there Helen sat, the child 495 Of aegis-bearing Jove, with downcast eyes, Yet with sharp words she thus address'd her Lord : " Back from the battle ? would thou there hadst died Beneath a warrior's arm, whom once I call'd My husband ! vainly didst thou boast ere while 500 Thine arm, thy dauntless courage, and thy spear 110 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book in The warlike Menelaus should subdue ! Go now again, and challenge to the fight The warlike Menelaus. Be thou ware ! I warn thee, pause, ere madly thou presume 505 With fair-hair'd Menelaus to contend ! Soon shouldst thou fall beneath his conqu'ring spear." To whom thus Paris : " Wring not thus my soul With keen reproaches : now, with Pallas' aid, Hath Menelaus conquer'd ; but my day 510 Will come : I too can boast my guardian Gods. But turn we now to love, and love's delights ; For never did thy beauty so inflame My sense ; not when from Lacedsemon first I bore thee in my ocean-going ships, 515 And revell'd in thy love on Cranae's isle, As now it fills my soul with fond desire." He said, and led her to the nuptial couch ; Her Lord she folio w'd ; and while there reclin'd Upon the richly-inlaid couch they lay, 520 Atrides, like a lion baffled, rush'd Amid the crowd, if haply he might find The godlike Paris ; but not one of all Book III. HOMEK'S ILIAD. Ill The Trojans and their brave allies could aid The warlike Menelaus in his search ; 525 Not that, for love, would any one that knew Have screen'd him from his anger, for they all Abhorr'd him as the shade of death : then thus Outspoke great Agamemnon, King of men : " Hear me, ye Trojans, Dardans, and Allies ! 530 "With warlike Menelaus rests, 'tis plain, The prize of vict'ry : then surrender ye The Argive Helen and the spoils of war, "With compensation due to Greece, that so A record may to future days remain." 535 Thus he ; the Greeks, assenting, cheer'd his words. ARGUMENT. THE BREACH OP THE TRUCE, AND THE FIRST BATTLE. The Gods deliberate in council concerning the Trojan war: they agree upon the continuation of it, and Jupiter sends down Min- erva to break the truce. She persuades Pandarus to aim an arrow at'Meneliius, who is wounded, but cured by Machaon. In the mean time some of the Trojan troops attack the Greeks. Aga- memnon is distinguished in all the parts of a good general ; he reviews the troops, and exhorts the leaders, some by praises, and others by reproofs. Nestor is particularly celebrated for his military discipline. The battle joius, and great numbers are slain on both sides. The same day continues through this, as through the last book ; as it does also through the two following, and almost to the end of the seventh book. The scene is wholly in the field before Troy. uookIV. HOMER'S ILIAD. 115 BOOK IV. /"YN golden pavement, round the board of Jove, The Gods were gather'd ; Hebe in the midst Pour'd the sweet nectar; they, in golden cups, Each other pledg'd, as down they look'd on Troy. Then- Jove, with cutting words and taunting tone, 5 Began the wrath of Juno to provoke : " Two Goddesses for Menelaus fight, Thou, Juno, Queen of Argos, and with thee Minerva, shield of warriors ; but ye two Sitting aloof, well-pleased it seems, look on ; 10 While laughter-loving Yenus, at the side Of Paris standing, still averts his fate, And rescues, when, as now, expecting death. To warlike Menelaus we decree, Of right, the vict'ry ; but consult we now 15 What may the issue be ; if we shall light Again the flame of war and discord fierce, 116 HOMEE'S ILIAD. Book IV. Or the two sides in peace and friendship join. For me, if thus your gen'ral voice incline, Let Priam's city stand, and Helen back 20 To warlike Menelaus be restor'd." So spoke the God ; but seated side by side, Juno and Pallas glances interchang'd Of ill portent for Troy ; Pallas indeed Sat silent ; and, though inly wroth with Jove, 25 Yet answer'd not a word ; but Juno's breast Could not contain her rage, and thus she spoke : " "What words, dread son of Saturn, dost thou speak ? How Avouldst thou render vain, and void of fruit, My weary labour and my horses' toil, 30 To stir the people, and on Priam's self, And Priam's offspring, bring disastrous fate ? Do as thou wilt ! yet not with our consent." To whom, in wrath, the Cloud-compeller thus : " Eevengeful ! how have Priam and his sons 35 So deeply injur'd thee, that thus thou seek'st "With unabated anger to pursue, Till thou o'erthrow, the strong-built walls of Troy ? Couldst thou but force the gates, and entering in Book IV. HOMEK'S ILIAD. 117 On Priam's mangled flesh, and Priam's sons, 40 And Trojans all, a bloody banquet make, Percliance thy fury might at length be stayed. But have thy will, lest this in future times 'Twixt me and thee be cause of strife renew'd. Yet hear my words, and ponder what I say : 45 If e'er, in times to come, my will should be Some city to destroy, inhabited By men beloved of thee, seek not to turn My wrath aside, but yield, as I do now, Consenting, but with heart that ill consents ; 50 For of all cities fair, beneath the sun And starry Heaven, the abode of mortal men, None to my soul was dear as sacred Troy, And Priam's self, and Priam's warrior race. For with drink-off 'rings due, and fat of lambs, 55 My altar still hath at their hands been fed ; Such honour hath to us been ever paid." To whom the stag-ey'd Juno thus replied : " Three cities are there, dearest to my heart ; Argos, and Sparta, and the ample streets 60 118 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book IV. Of rich Mycenae ; work on them thy will ; Destroy them, if thine anger they incur; T will not interpose, nor hinder thee ; Mourn them I shall ; reluctant see their fall, But not resist ; for sovereign is thy will. 65 Tet should my labours not be fruitless all ; Tor I too am a God ; my blood is thine ; "Worthy of honour, as the eldest born Of deep-designing Saturn, and thy wife ; Thine, who o'er all th' Immortals reign'st supreme.70 But yield we each to other, I to thee, And thou to me ; the other Gods will all By us be rul'd. On Pallas then enjoin That to the battle-field of Greece and Troy She haste, and so contrive that Trojans first 75 May break the treaty, and the Greeks assail." She said : the Sire of Gods and men complied, And thus with winged words to Pallas spoke : " Go to the battle-field of Greece and Troy In haste, and so contrive that Trojans first 80 May break the treaty, and the Greeks assail." His words fresh impulse gave to Pallas' zeal, Boosrv. HOMER'S ILIAD. 119 And from Olympus' heights in haste she sped ; Like to a meteor, that, of grave portent To warring armies or sea-faring men, 85 The son of deep-designing Saturn sends, Bright-flashing, scatt'ring fiery sparks around, The blue-ey'd Goddess darted down to earth, And lighted in the midst ; amazement held The Trojan warriors and the well-greav'd Greeks ; 90 And one to other look'd and said, " "WTiat means This sign ? Must fearful battle rage again, Or may we hope for gentle peace from Jove, "Who to mankind dispenses peace and war % " Such was the converse Greeks and Trojans held. 95 Pallas meanwhile, amid the Trojan host, Clad in the likeness of Antenor's son, Laodocus, a spearman stout and brave, Search' d here and there, if haply she might find The godlike Pandarus ; Lycaon's son 100 She found, of noble birth and stalwart form, Standing, encircled by his sturdy band Of bucklered followers from iEsepus' stream. She stood beside him, and address'd him thus : 120 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book IV " Wilt thou by me be ruled, Lycaon's son ? 105 For durst thou but at Menelaus shoot Thy winged arrow, great would be thy fame, And great thy favour with the men of Troy, And most of all with Paris ; at his hand Thou shalt receive rich guerdon, when he hears 110 That warlike Menelaus, by thy shaft Subdued, is laid upon the fun'ral pyre. Bend then thy bow at Atreus' glorious son, Vowing to Phoebus, Lycia's guardian God, The Archer-King, to pay of firstling lambs 115 An ample hecatomb, when home return'd In safety to Zeleia's sacred town." Thus she ; and, fool, he listen'd to her words. Straight he micas' d his polish'd bow, his spoil Won from a mountain ibex, which himself, 120 In ambush lurking, through the breast had shot, True to his aim, as from behind a crag He came in sight ; prone on the rock he fell ; With horns of sixteen palms his head was crown'd ; These deftly wrought a skilful workman's hand, 125 And polish'd smooth, and tipp'd the ends with gold. Book IV. HOMER'S ILIAD. 121. He bent, and resting on the ground his bow, Strung it anew ; his faithful comrades held Their shields before him, lest the sons of Greece Should make their onset ere his shaft could reach 130 The warlike Menelaus, Atreus' son. His quiver then withdrawing from its case. With care a shaft he chose, ne'er shot before, Well-feather'd, messenger of pangs and death ; The stinging arrow fitted to the string, 135 And vow'd to Phoebus, Lycia's guardian God, The Archer-King, to pay of firstling lambs An ample hecatomb, when home return'd In safety to Zeleia's sacred town. At once the sinew and the notch he drew ; 140 The sinew to his breast, and to the bow The iron head ; then, when the mighty bow Was to a circle strain'd, sharp rang the horn, And loud the sinew twang'd, as tow'rd the crowd With deadly speed the eager arrow sprang. 145 Nor, Menelaus, was thy safety then Uncar'd for of the Gods ; Jove's daughter first, Pallas, before thee stood, and t urn 'd aside 122 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book IV. The pointed arrow ; turn'd it so aside As when a mother from her infant's cheek, 150 "Wrapt in sweet slumbers, brushes off a fly ; Its course she so directed that it struck Just where the golden clasps the belt restrain'd, And where the breastplate, doubled, check'd its force. On the close-fitting belt the arrow struck; 155 Eight through the belt of curious workmanship It drove, and through the breastplate richly wrought, And through the coat of mail he wore beneath, His inmost guard and best defence to check The hostile weapons' force ; yet onward still 160 The arrow drove, and graz'd the hero's flesh. Forth issued from the wound the crimson blood. As when some Carian or Mseonian maid, With crimson dye the ivory stains, designed To be the cheek-piece of a warrior's steed, 105 By many a valiant horseman coveted, As in the house it lies, a monarch's boast, The horse adorning, and the horseman's pride : So, Menelaus, then thy graceful thighs, 169 And knees, and ancles, with thy blood were dy'd. Book IV. HOMER'S ILIAD. 123 Great Agamemnon shudder'd as he saw The crimson drops out-welling from the wound ; Shudder'd the warlike Menelaus' self; But when not buried in his flesh he saw The- barb and sinew, back his spirit came. 175 Then deeply groaning, Agamemnon spoke, As Menelaus by the hand he held, And with him groan'd his comrades : " Brother dear, I wrought thy death when late, on compact sworn, I sent thee forth alone for Greece to fight ; ISO "Wounded by Trojans, who their plighted faith Have trodden under foot ; but not in vain Are solemn cov'nants and the blood of lambs, The treaty wine outpoured, and hand-plight given, Wherein men place their trust ; if not at once, 185 Yet soon or late will Jove assert their claim ; And heavy penalties the perjured pay With their own blood, their children's, and their wives'. So in my inmost soul full well I know The day shall come when this imperial Troy, 190 And Priam's race, and Priam's royal self, Shall in one common rain be overthrown ; 124: HOMEE'S ILIAD. Book IV. And Saturn's son himself, high-throned Jove, Who dwells in Heav'n, shall in their faces flash His aegis dark and dread, this treach'rous deed 195 Avenging ; this shall surely come to pass. But, Menelaus, deep will be my grief, If thou shouldst perish, meeting thus thy fate. To thirsty Argos should I then return By foul disgrace o'erwhehn'd ; for, with thy fall, 200 The Greeks will mind them of their native land ; And as a trophy to the sons of Troy The Argive Helen leave ; thy bones meanwhile Shall moulder here beneath a foreign soil, Thy work undone ; and with insulting scorn 205 Some vaunting Trojan, leaping on the tomb Of noble Menelaus, thus shall say : * On all his foes may Agamemnon so His wrath accomplish, who hath hither led Of Greeks a mighty army, all in vain ; 210 And bootless home with empty ships hath gone, And valiant Menelaus left behind ;' Thus when men speak, gape, earth, and hide my shame." To whom the fair-hair'd Menelaus thus BookIV. HOMER'S ILIAD. i25 With cheering words : " Fear not thyself, nor cause The troops to fear : the arrow hath not tonch'd 21 G A vital part : the sparkling belt hath first Turn'd it aside, the doublet next beneath, And coat of mail, the work of arm'rer's hands." To whom the monarch Agamemnon thus : 220 " Dear Menelaus, may thy words be true ! The leech shall tend thy wound, and spread it o'er With healing ointments to assuage the pain." He said, and to the sacred herald call'd : 221 " Haste thee, Talthybius ! summon with all speed The son of ^Esculapius, peerless leech, Machaon ; bid him hither haste to see The warlike Menelaus, chief of Greeks, Who by an arrow from some practis'd hand, Trojan or Lycian, hath receiv'd a wound ; 230 A cause of boast to them, to us of grief." He said , nor did the herald not obey, But through the brass-clad ranks of Greece he pass'd, In search of brave Machaon ; him he found Standing, by buckler'd warriors bold begirt, 235 Who follow'd him from Trica's grassy plains. 126 HOMEE'S ILIAD. Book IV. He stood beside him, and address'd liim tlms : " Up, son of .zEsculapius ! Atreus' son, The mighty monarch, summons thee to see The warlike Menelaus, chief of Greeks, 210 "Who by an arrow from some practis'd hand, Trojan or Lycian, hath receiv'd a wound ; A cause of boast to them, to us of grief." Thus he ; and not unmov'd Machaon heard : 241 They thro' the crowd, and thro' the wide-spread host, Together took their way ; but when they came Where fair-hair'd Menelaus, wounded, stood, Around him in a ring the best of Greece, And in the midst the godlike chief himself, From the close-fitting belt the shaft he drew, 250 Breaking the pointed barbs ; the sparkling belt He loosen'd, and the doublet underneath, And coat of mail, the work of arm'rer's hand. But when the wound appear'd in sight, where sr^uck The stinging arrow, from the clotted blood 255 He clean s'd it, and applied with skilful hand The herbs of healing power, which Chiron erst In friendly guise upon his sire bestowed. BookIY. HOMEB'S ILIAD. 127 While round the valiant Menelaus they "Were thus engag'd, advanc'd the Trojan hosts : 260 They donn'd their arms, and for the fight prepar'd. In Agamemnon then no trace was seen Of laggard sloth, no shrinking from the fight, But full of ardour to the field he rush'd. He left his horses and brass-mounted ear 265 (The champing horses by Eurymedon, The son of Ptolemy, Peiraeus' son, "Were held aloof), but with repeated charge Still to be near at hand, when faint with toil His limbs should fail him marshalling his host. 270 Himself on foot the warrior ranks array'd ; "With cheering words addressing whom he found "With zeal preparing for the battle-field : " Relax not, valiant friends, your warlike toil ; For Jove to falsehood ne'er will give his aid ; 275 And they who first, regardless of their oaths, Have broken truce, shall with their flesh themselvea The vultures feed, while we, their city raz'd, Their wives and helpless children bear away." But whom remiss and shrinking from the war 2S0 128 HOMEE'S ILIAD. Book IV. He found, with keen rebuke he thus assail'd ; "Ye wretched Greeks, your country's foul reproach, Have ye no sense of shame ? Why stand ye thus Like timid fawns, that in the chase run down, Stand all bewildered, spiritless and tame ? 285 So stand ye now, nor dare to face the fight. What ! will ye wait the Trojans' near approach, Where on the beach, beside the hoary deep, Our goodly ships are drawn, and see if Jove Will o'er you his protecting hand extend ?" 290 As thus the King the serried ranks review'd, He came where thronging round their skilful chief Idomeneus, the warlike bands of Crete Were arming for the fight ; Idomeneus, Of courage stubborn as the forest boar, 295 The foremost ranks array'd ; Meriones The rearmost squadrons had in charge ; with joy The monarch Agamemnon saw, and thus With accents bland Idomeneus address'd : " Idomeneus, above all other Greeks, 300 In battle and elsewhere, I honour thee ; And in the banquet, where the noblest mix Book IV. HOMER'S ILIAD. 129 The ruddy wine for chiefs alone reserved, Though others drink their share, yet by thy side Thy cup, like mine, still new replenish'd stands 305 To drink at pleasure. Up then to the fight, Lnd show thyself the warrior that thou art." To whom the Cretan King, Idomeneus : " In me, Atrides, thou shalt ever find, As at the first I promis'd, comrade true ; 310 But go, and stir the other long-haired Greeks To speedy battle ; since the Trojans now The truce have broken ; and defeat and death Must wait on those who have their oaths forsworn." He said, and Agamemnon went his way 315 Rejoicing ; through the crowd he pass'd, and came "Where stood th' Ajaces ; them, in act to arm, Amid a cloud of infantry he found ; And as a goat-herd from his watch-tow'r crag Beholds a cloud advancing o'er the sea, 320 By Zephyr's breath impell'd ; as from afar He gazes, black as pitch, it sweeps along O'er the dark ocean's face, and with it brings A hurricane of rain ; he, shudd'ring, sees, VOL. I. k 130 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book IV And drives his flock beneath the sheltering cave : 325 So thick and dark, about th' Ajaces stirr'd, Impatient for the war, the stalwart youths, Black masses, bristling close with spear and shield. Well pleas'd,the monarch Agamemnon saw, 329 And thus address'd them : " Yaliant chiefs, to you, The leaders of the brass-clad Greeks, I give ('T were needless and unseemly) no commands ; For well ye understand your troops to rouse To deeds of dauntless courage ; would to Jove, To Pallas and Apollo, that such mind 335 As is in you, in all the camp were found ; Then soon should Priam's lofty city fall, Tak'n and destroy'd by our victorious hands." Thus saying, them he left, and onward mov'd. Nestor, the smooth-tongu'd Pylian chief, he fou'nd340 The troops arraying, and to valiant deeds His friends encouraging ; stout Pelagon, Alastor, Chromius, Hamion, warlike Prince, And Bias bold, his people's sure defence. In the front rank, with chariot and with horse, 345 He plac'd the car -borne warriors ; in the rear, Book IV. HOMER'S ILIAD. 131 Num'rous and brave, a cloud of infantry, Compactly mass'd, to stem the tide of war, Between the two he plac'd th' inferior troops, 349 That e'en against their will they needs must fight. The horsemen first he charg'd, and bade them keep Their horses well in hand, nor wildly rush Amid the tumult : " See," he said, " that none, In skill or valour over-confident, Advance before his comrades, nor alone 355 Retire ; for so your lines were easier forc'd ; But ranging each beside a hostile car, Thrust with your spears ; for such the better way ; By men so disciplin'd, in elder days Were lofty walls and fenced towns destroy'd." 360 Thus he, experienc'd in the wars of old ; "Well pleas'd,the monarch Agamemnon saw, And thus address'd him ; " Would to Heav'n, old man, That, as thy spirit, such too were thy strength And vigour of thy limbs ; but now old age, 3G5 The common lot of mortals, weighs thee down ; Would I could see some others in thy place, And thou couldst still be numbered with the young !" 132 HOMEE'S ILIAD. Book IV. To whom Gerenian Nestor thus replied : " Atrides, I too fain would see restor'd 370 The strength I once possess'd, what time I slew The godlike Ereuthalion ; hut the Gods On man hestow not all their gifts at once ; I then was young, and now am how'd with age, Yet with the chariots can I still go forth, 375 And aid with sage advice : for such the right And privilege of age ; to hurl the spear Belongs to younger men, who after me Were born, who boast their vigour unimpair'd." He said ; and Agamemnon went his way, 380 Rejoicing : to Menestheus next he came, The son of Peteus, charioteer renown'd; Him found he, circled by th' Athenian bands, The raisers of the war-cry ; close beside The sage Ulysses stood, around him rang'd, 385 Not unrenown'd, the Cephalonian troops : The sound of battle had not reach'd their ears ; For but of late the Greek and Trojan hosts Were set in motion ; they expecting stood, Till other Grecian columns should advance, 390 book IV. HOMEK'S ILIAD. 133 Assail the Trojans, and renew the war. Atrides saw, and thus, reproachful, spoke : " O son of Peteus, Heav'n-descended King '. And thou too, master of all tricky arts, Why, ling'ring, stand ye thus aloof, and wait 395 For others coming ? ye should be the first The hot assault of battle to confront ; For ye are first my summons to receive, Whene'er the honour'd banquet we prepare : And well ye like to eat the sav'ry meat, 400 And, at your will, the luscious wine-cups drain : Now stand ye here, and unconcern'd would see- Ten columns pass before you to the fight." To whom, with stern regard, Ulysses thus : 4-04 " What words have pass'd the barrier of thy lips, Atrides ? how with want of warlike zeal Canst thou reproach us? when the Greeks again The furious war shall waken, thou shalt see (If that thou care to see) amid the ranks Of Trov, the father of Telemachus 410 1\ the fore-front: thy words are empty wind," Atrides saw him chafed, and smiling, thus 134: HOMEE'S ILIAD. Book IV. Recalled his former words : " Ulysses sage, Laertes' high-born son, not over-much I give thee blame, or orders ; for I know 415 Thy mind to gentle counsels is inclin'd ; Thy thoughts are one with mine ; then come, hence- forth Shall all be well ; and if a hasty word Have pass'd, may Heaven regard it as unsaid." Thus saying, them he left, and onward mov'd. 420 The son of Tydeus, valiant Diomed, Standing he found amid his warlike steeds And well-built cars ; beside him, Sthenelns, The son of Capaneus ; Atrides saw, And thus address'd him with reproachful words : 425 " Alas ! thou son of Tydeus, wise and bold, "Why crouch with fear ? why thus appalFd survey The pass of war ? not so had Tydeus crouch'd ; His hand was ever readv from their foes To guard his comrades ; so, at least, they say 430 Whose eyes beheld his labours ; I myself Nor met him e'er, nor saw ; but, by report, Thy father was the foremost man of men. Book IV. HOMER'S ILIAD. 135 A. stranger to Mycence once he came, With godlike Polynices ; not at war, 435 But seeking succour for the troops that lay Encamp'd before the sacred walls of Thebes ; For reinforcements earnestly they sued ; The boon they ask'd was granted them, but Jove With unpropitious omens turn'd them back. 440 Advancing on their journey, when they reach'd Asopus' grassy banks and rushes deep, The Greeks upon a mission Tydeus sent : He went ; and many Thebans there he found Feasting in Eteocles' royal hall : 445 Amid them all, a stranger and alone, He stood unterrified, and challeng'd all To wrestle with him, and with ease o'erthrew : So mighty was the aid that Pallas gave. Whereat indignant, they, on his return, 450 An ambush set, of fifty chosen youths ; Two were their leaders ; Hsemon's godlike son, Mseon, and Lycophontes, warrior brave, Son of Autophonus ; and these too far'd But ill at Tydeus' hand ; he slew them all : 455 / 136 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book IV. Mason alone, obedient to the Gods, He spar'd, and bade him bear the tidings home. Such Tydeus was : though greater in debate, His son will never rival him in arms." He said : brave Diomed in silence heard, 460 Submissive to the monarch's stern rebuke ; Then answer'd thus the son of Capaneus : " Atrides, speak not falsely : well thou know'st The truth, that we our fathers far surpass. The seven-gated city, Thebes, we took, 465 "With smaller force beneath the wall of Mars, Trusting to heav'nly signs, and fav'ring Jove, Where they by blind, presumptuous folly fail'd ; Then equal not our fathers' deeds with ours." To whom thus Diomed, with stern regard : 470 " Father, be silent ; hearken to my words : I blame not Agamemnon, King of men, Who thus to battle stirs the weil-greav'd Greeks : His will the glory be if we o'ercome The valiant Trojans, and their city take ; 475 Great too his loss if they o'er us prevail : Then come, let us too for the fight prepare " BookIV. HOMER'S ILIAD. 137 He said ; and from the car leap'd down in arms : Fierce rang the armonr on the warrior's breast, That ev'n the stoutest heart might quail with fear. As by the west wind driv'n, the ocean waves 481 Dash forward on the far-resounding shore, "Wave upon wave ; first curls the ruffled sea With whit'ning crests ; anon with thund'ring roar It breaks upon the beach, and from the crags 4Sc Recoiling flings in giant curves its head Aloft, and tosses high the wild sea-spray : Column on column, so the hosts of Greece Pour'd, ceaseless, to the war ; to each the chiefs Their orders gave ; the rest in silence mov'd : 490 Nor would ye deem that mighty mass endued With power of speech, so silently they moved In awe of their great captains : far around Flashed the bright armour they were girt withal. On th' other hand, the Trojans, as the flocks 495 That in the court-yard of some wealthy Lord In countless numbers stand, at milking-time, Incessant bleating, as their lambs they hear : So rose their mingled clamours through the camp ; 138 HOMEK'S ILIAD. Book IV. For not one language nor one speech was there, 500 But many nations call'd from distant lands : These Mars inspir'd, and those the blue-ey'd Maid ; And Fear, and Flight, and Discord unappeas'd, Of blood-stain'd Mars the sister and the friend : "With humble crest at first, anon her head, 505 While yet she treads the earth, affronts the skies. The gage of battle in the midst she threw, Strode through the crowd, and woe to mortals wrought. When to the midst they came, together rush'd Bucklers and lances, and the furious might 510 Of mail-clad warriors ; bossy shield on shield Clatter'd in conflict ; loud the clamour rose. Then rose too mino-led shouts and groans of men Slaying and slain ; the earth ran red with blood. 514 As when, descending from the mountain's brow, Two wintry torrents, from their copious source Pour downward to the narrow pass, where meet Their mingled waters in some deep ravine, Their weight of flood ; on the far mountain's side The shepherd hears the roar ; so loud arose 52" The shouts and yells of those commingling hosts. Book IV. HOMEE'S ILIAD. 139 First 'mid the foremost ranks Antilochus A Trojan warrior, Echepolus, slew, A crested chief, Thalesius' noble son. Beneath his horsehair-plumed helmet's peak 525 The sharp spear struck ; deep in his forehead fix'd It pierc'd the bone ; then darkness veil'd his eyes, And, like a tow'r, amid the press he fell. Him Elephenor, brave Abantian chief, Son of Chalcoclon, seizing by the feet, 530 Dragg'd from beneath the darts, in haste to strip His armour off ; but short-liv'd was th' attempt ; For bold Asenor mark'd him as he drew The corpse aside, and with his brass-tipp'd spear 534 Thrust through his flank, unguarded, as he stoop'd, Beside his sliield ; and slack'd his limbs in death. The spirit was fled ; but hotly o'er him rag'd The war of Greeks and Trojans ; fierce as wolves They fought, man struggling hand to hand with man. Then Ajax Telamon a stalwart youth, Son of Anthemion, Simoisius, slew ; Whose mother gave him birth on Simois' banks, When with her parents down from Ida's heights 140 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book IV. She drove her flock ; thence Simoisius nam'd : Not destined he his parents to repay 545 Their early care ; for short his term of life, By godlike Ajax' mighty spear subdued. Him, to the front advancing, in the breast, By the right nipple, Ajax struck ; right through, 549 From front to back, the brass-tipp'd spear was driv'n, Out through the shoulder ; prone in dust he fell ; As some tall poplar, grown in marshy mead, Smooth-stemm'd, with branches tapering tow'rd the head ; Which with the biting axe the wheelwright fells, To bend the felloes of his well-built car ; 555 Sapless, beside the river, lies the tree ; So lay the youthful Simoisius, felled By godlike Ajax' hand. At him, in turn, The son of Priam, Antiphus, encas'd In radiant armour, from amid the crowd 560 His jav'lin threw ; his mark, indeed, he miss a ; But through the groin Ulysses' faithful friena, Leucus, he struck, in act to bear away The youthful dead ; down on the corpse he fell, I Book IV. HOMER'S ILIAD. 141 And, dying, of the dead relax'd his grasp. 565 Fierce anger, at his comrade's slaughter, filled Ulysses' breast ; in burnished armour clad Forward he rush'd ; and standing near, around He look'd, and pois'd on high his glitt'ring lance : Beneath his aim the Trojans back recoil'd ; 570 Nor vainly flew the spear ; Democoon, A bastard son of Priam, met the blow : He from Abydos came, his high-bred mares There left to pasture ; him Ulysses, fill'd With fury at his lov'd companion's death, 575 Smote on the head ; through either temple pass'd The pointed spear, and darkness veil'd his eyes. Thund'ring he fell, and loud his armour rang. At this the Trojan chiefs, and Hector's self, 579 'Gan to give ground : the Greeks with joyful shouts Seiz'd on the dead, and forward urg'd their course. From Ilium's heights Apollo, filled with wrath, Look'd down, and to the Trojans shouted loud : " Uprouse ye, valiant Trojans ! give not way Before the Greeks ; their bodies are not stone, 585 Nor iron, to defy your trenchant swords ; 142 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book IV And great Achilles, fair-hair'd Thetis' son, Fights not, but o'er his anger broods apart." So from the city call'd the heav'nly voice ; The Greeks, meanwhile, all-glorious Pallas fir'd, 590 Mov'd 'mid the tumult, and the laggards rous'd. Then fell Diores, Amarynceus' son : A rugged fragment of a rock had crush'd His ancle and right leg : from ^Enon came The Thracian chief who hurl'd it, Peirous, son 595 Of Imbrasus ; the tendons both, and bones, The huge mass shatter'd ; backward in the dust He fell, both hands extending to his friends, Gasping his life away ; then quick up-ran He who the blow had dealt, and with his spear 600 Thrust through him, by the navel ; from the wound His bowels gush'd, and darkness veil'd his eyes. But he, advancing, through the breast was struck Above the nipple, by th' ^Etolian chief. GO-k Thoas ; and through his lungs the spear was driv'n. Thoas approach'cl, and from his breast withdrew The sturdy spear, and with his sharp-edg'd sword Across his waistband gave the mortal stroke : Book IV. HOMEK'S ILIAD. 143 Yet could not touch his arms ; for all around The Thracian warriors, with their tufted crowns, 610 Their long spears held before them, him, though stout, And strong, and valiant, kept at bay ; perforce lie yielded ; and thus side by side were laid The two, the Thracian and th' Epeian chief; And round them many a valiant soldier lay. 615 "Well might the deeds achieved that day deserve His praise, who through that bloody field might pas9 By sword or spear unwounded, by the hand Gf Pallas guarded from the weapon's flight ; For many a Trojan, many a Greek, that day 620 Prone in the dust, and side by side, were laid. ARGUMENT. THE ACTS OF DIOMED. Diomed, assisted by Pallas, performs wonders in this day's battle. Pandarns wounds bim witb an arrow, but tbe goddess cures him, enables him to discern gods from mortals, and prohibits him from contending with any of the former, excepting Venus. iEneas joins Pandarus to oppose him, Pandarus is killed, and iEneas in great danger but for the assistance of Venus ; who, as she is removing her son from the fight, is wounded on the hand by Diomed. Apollo seconds her in his rescue, and, at length, carries off iEneas to Troy, where he is healed in the temple of Pergamus. Mars rallies the Trojans, and assists Hector to make a stand. In the mean time iEneas is restored to the field, and they overthrow several of the Greeks ; among the rest Tlepolemus is slain by Sarpedon. Juno and Minerva descend to resist Mars ; the latter incites Diomed to go against that god ; he wounds him, and sends him groaning to heaven. The first battle continues through this book. The scene is the same as in the former. BookV. HOMEK'S ILIAD. 147 S BOOK V. UCH strength and courage then to Diomed The son of Tydeus, Pallas gave, as rais'd, 'Mid all the Greeks, the glory of his name. Forth from his helm and shield a fiery light There flash'd, like autumn's star, that brightest shines When newly risen from his ocean bath. 6 So from the warrior's head and shoulders flash'd That fiery light, as to the midst he urg'd His furious course, where densest masses fought. There was one Dares 'mid the Trojan host, 10 The priest of Vulcan, rich, of blameless life ; Two gallant sons he had, Idasus nam'd, And Phegeus, skill'd in all the points of war. These, parted from the throng, the warrior met ; They on their car, while he on foot advanc'd. 15 When near they came, first Phegeus threw his spear ; O'er the left shoulder of Tydides pass'd 148 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book V. The erring weapon's point, and miss'd its mark. His pond'rous spear in turn Tydides threw, And not in vain ; on Phegeus' breast it struck, 20 Full in the midst, and hurl'd him from the ear. Idseus from the well-wrought chariot sprang, And fled, nor durst his brother's corpse defend. Nor had he so escap'd the doom of death, But Vulcan bore him safely from the field, 25 In darkness shrouded, that his aged sire Might not be wholly of his sons bereav'd. The car Tydides to his comrades gave, And bade them to the ships the horses drive. Now when the Trojans Dares' sons beheld, 30 The one in flight, the other stretch'd in death, Their spirits within them quail'd ; but Pallas took The hand of Mars, and thus address'd the God : / " Mars, Mars, thou bane of mortals, blood-stain'd Lord, Razer of cities, wherefore leave we not 35 The Greeks and Trojans to contend, and see To which the sire of all will vict'ry give ; WTiile we retire, and shun the wrath of Jove ?" Thus saying, from the battle Mars she led, Book V. HOMER'S ILIAD. 149 And plac'd him on Scamander's steepy banks. 40 The Greeks drove back the Trojan host ; the chiefs Slew each his victim ; Agamemnon first, The mighty monarch, from his chariot hnrl'd Hodins, the sturdy Halizonian chief, Him, as he turn'd, between the shonlder-blades 45 The jav'lin struck, and through his chest was driv'n ; Thund'ring he fell, and loud his armour rang. On Phsestus, Boras' son, Mseonian chief, Who from the fertile plains of Tarn a came, Then sprang Idomeneus ; and as he sought 50 To mount upon his car, the Cretan King Through his right shoulder drove the pointed spear ; He fell ; the shades of death his eyes o'erspread, And of his arms the followers stripp'd his corpse. The son of Atreus, Menelaus, slew 55 Scamandrius, son of Strophius, sportsman keen, In woodcraft skilful ; for his practis'd hand Had by Diana's self been taught to slay Each beast of chase the mountain forest holds. But nought avail'd him then the Archer-Queen 60 Diana's counsels, nor his boasted art 150 HOMEK'S ILIAD. Book V Of distant aim ; for as lie fled, the lance Of Menelaus, Atreus' warlike son, Behind his neck, between the shoulder-blades, His flight arresting, through his chest was driv'n. 65 Headlong he fell, and loud his armour rang. Phereclus by Meriones was slain, Son of Harmonides, whose practis'd hand Knew well to fashion many a work of art ; By Pallas highly favour'd ; he the ships TO For Paris built, first origin of ill, Freighted with evil to the men of Troy, And to himself, who knew not Heav'n's decrees. Him, in his headlong flight, in hot pursuit Meriones o'ertook, and thrust his lance 75 Through his right flank ; beneath the bone was driv'n The spear, andpierc'd him through : prone on his knees, Groaning, he fell, and death his eyelids clos'd. Meges Pedaeus slew, Antenor's son, A bastard born, but by Theano rear'd 80 With .tender care, and nurtur'd as her son, "With her own children, for her husband's sake. Him, Phyleus' warrior son, approaching near, BookV. HOMER'S ILIAD. 151 Thrust through the junction of the head and neck ; Crash' d through his teeth the spear beneath the tongue ; Prone in the dust he gnash'd the brazen point. 86 Eurypylus, Eusemon's noble son, Hypsenor slew, the worthy progeny Of Dolopion brave ; Scamander's priest, And by the people as a God rever'd : 90 Him, as he fled before him, from behind Eurypylus, Eueemon's noble son, Smote -with the sword ; and from the shoulder-point The brawny arm he sever'd ; to the ground Down fell the gory hand ; the darkling shades \ 95 Of death, and rig'rous doom, his eyelids clos'd. ' Thus labour'd they amid the stubborn fight ; But of Tydides none might say to whom His arm belong'd, or whether with the hosts Of Troy or Greece he mingled in the fight : 100 Hither and thither o'er the plain he rush'd, Like to a wintry stream, that brimming o'er Breaks down its barriers in its rapid course ; Nor well-built bridge can stem the flood, nor fence That guards the fertile fields, as down it pours 105 152 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book V Its sudden torrent, swoll'n with rain from Heav'n, And many a goodly work of man destroys : So back were borne before Tydides' might The serried ranks of Troy, nor dar'd await, Despite their numbers, his impetuous charge. 110 Him when Lycaon's noble son beheld Careering o'er the plain, the serried ranks Driving before him, quick at Tydeus' son He bent his bow ; and onward as he rush'd, On the right shoulder, near the breastplate's joint, 115 The stinging arrow struck ; right through it pass'd, And held its way, that blood the breastplate stain'd. Then shouted loud Lycaon's noble son : " Arouse ye, valiant Trojans, ye who goad Your flying steeds ; the bravest of the Greeks 120 Is wounded, nor, I deem, can long withstand My weapon, if indeed from Lycia's shore By Phoebus' counsel sent I join'd the war." Thus he, vain-glorious ; but not so was quell'd The godlike chief; back he withdrew, and stood 125 Beside his car, and thus to Sthenelus, The son of Capaneus, his speech address'd : BookV. HOMER'S ILIAD. 153 " Up, gentle son of Capaneus, descend From off the car, and from my shoulder draw This stinging arrow forth." He said, and down 130 Leap'd" from the chariot Sthenelus, and stood Beside him ; and as forth he drew the shaft, Gush'd out the blood, and dyed the twisted mail. Then thus the valiant son of Tydeus pray'd : " Hear me, thou child of segis-bearing Jove, 135 Unconquer'd ! if amid the deadly fight Thy friendly aid my father e'er sustain'd, Let me in turn thy favour find ; and grant "Within my reach and compass of my spear That man may find himself, who unawares 140 Hath wounded me, and vainly boasting deems I shall not long behold the light of day." Thus pray'd the chief, and Pallas heard his pray'r ; To all his limbs, to feet and hands alike, She gave fresh vigour ; and with winged words, 145 Beside him as she stood, address'd him thus : u Go fearless onward, Diomed, to meet The Trojan hosts ; for I within thy breast Thy father's dauntless courage have infus'd, 154 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book V, Such, as of old in Tydeus' bosom dwelt, 150 Bold horseman, buckler-clad ; and from thine eyes The film that dimm'd them I have purg'd away, That thou mayst well 'twixt Gods and men discern. If then some God make trial of thy force, "With other of th' Immortals fight thou not ; 155 But should Jove's daughter Yenus dare the fray Thou needst not slum at her to cast thy spear." This said, the blue-ey'd Goddess disappear'd. Forthwith as;ain amid the foremost ranks Tydides mingled ; keenly as before 160 His spirit against the Trojans burn'd to fight, With threefold fury now he sought the fray. As when a hungry lion has o'erleap'd The sheepfold ; him the guardian of the flock Has wounded, not disabled ; by his wound 165 To rage excited, but not forc'd to fly, The fold he enters, scares the trembling sheep, That, closely huddled, each on other press, Then pounces on his prey, and leaps the fence : So pounc'd Tydides on the Trojan host. 170 Astynous and Hypeiron then he slew, BookV. HOMER'S ILIAD. 155 His people's guardian ; through the breast of one He drove his spear, and with his mighty sword He smote the other on the collar-bone, The shoulder sev'ring from the neck and back. 175 Them left he there to lie ; of Abas then And Polyeidus went in hot pursuit, Sons of Eurydamas, an aged seer, Whose visions stay'd them not ; but both were doom'd A prey to valiant Diomed to fall. 180 Xanthus and Thoon then the hero slew, The sons of Phsenops, children of his age : He, worn with years, no other sons begot, Heirs of his wealth ; they two together fell, And to their father left a load of grief, 185 That from the battle they return'd not home, And distant kindred all his substance shar'd. On Chromius and Echemon next he fell, Two sons of Priam on one chariot borne ; And as a lion springs upon a herd, 190 And breaks the neck of heifer or of steer, Feeding in woodland glade ; with such a spring These two, in vain resisting, from their car 156 HOMEK'S ILIAD. Book V Tydides huiTd ; then stripp'd their arms, and bade His followers lead their horses to the ships. 195 Him when JEneas saw amid the ranks Dealing destruction, through the fight and throng Of spears he plung'd, if haply he might find The godlike Pandarus ; Lycaon's son He found, of noble birth and stalwart form, 200 And stood before him, and address'd him thus : " Where, Pandarus, are now thy winged shafts, Thy bow, and well-known skill, wherein with thee Can no man here contend? nor Lycia boasts, Through all her wide-spread plains, a truer aim ; 205 Then raise to Jove thy hands, and with thy shaft Strike down this chief, whoe'er he be, that thus Is making fearful havoc in our host, Relaxing many a warrior's limbs in death : If he be not indeed a God, incens'd 210 Against the Trojans for neglected rites ; For fearful is the vengeance of a God." Whom answer'd thus Lycaon's noble son : " iEneas, chief and councillor of Troy, Most like in all respects to Tydeus' son 21 5 BookV. HOMER'S ILIAD. 157 He seems ; his shield I know, and visor'd helm, And horses ; whether he himself be God, I cannot tell ; but if he be indeed The man I think him, Tydeus' valiant son, He fights not thus without the aid of Heav'n ; 220 But by his side, his shoulders veiled in cloud, Some God attends his steps, and turns away The shaft that just hath reach'd him ; for ev'n now A shaft I shot, which by the breastplate's joint Pierc'd his right shoulder through : full sure I deem'd That shaft had sent him to the shades, and yet 226 It slew him not ; 'tis sure some angry God. Nor horse have I, nor car on which to mount ; But in my sire Lycaon's wealthy house Elev'n fair chariots stand, all newly built, 230 Each with its.cover ; by the side of each Two steeds on rye and barley white are fed ; And in his well-built house, when here I came, Lycaon, aged warrior, urg'd me oft With horses and with chariots high upborne, 235 To lead the Trojans in the stubborn fight ; I hearken'd not — 'twere better if I had — 158 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book V Yet feard I lest ray horses, wont to feed In plenty unstinted, by the soldiers' wants Might of their cnstom'd forage be depriv'd ; 240 I left them there, and hither came on foot, And trusting to my bow : vain trust, it seems ; Two chiefs already have I struck, the sons Of Tydeus and of Atreus ; with true aim Drawn blood from both, yet but increas'd their rage. Sad was the hour when down from where it hung 246 I took my bow, and hasting to the aid Of godlike Hector, hither led my troops ; But should I e'er return, and see again My native land, my wife, my lofty hall, 250 Then may a stranger's sword cut off my head, If with these hands I shatter not, and burn, The bow that thus hath fail'd me at my need." Him answer'd thus ^Eneas, chief of Troy : " Speak thou not thus ; our fortunes shall not change Till thou and I, with chariot and with horse, 256 This chief encounter, and his prowess prove ; Then mount my car, and see how swift my steeds, Hither and thither, in pursuit or flight, book V. HOMER'S ILIAD. 159 From those of Tros descended, scour the plain. 200 So if the victory to Diomed, The son of Tydeus, should by Jove be giv'n, We yet may safely reach the walls of Troy. Take then the whip and reins, while I descend To fight on foot ; or thou the chief engage, 265 And leave to me the conduct of the car." Whom answer'd thus Lycaon's noble son : "^Eneas, of thy horses and thy car Take thou the charge ; beneath th' accustomed hand, With more assurance would they draw the car, 270 If we from Tydeus' son be forced to fly ; Nor, struck with panic, and thy voice unheard, Refuse to bear us from the battle-field ; So should ourselves be slain, and Tydeus' son In triumph drive thy horses to the ships. 275 But thou thy horses and thy chariot guide, While I his onset with my lance receive." Thus saying, on the car they mounted both, And tow'rd Tydides urg'd their eager steeds. Them Sthenelus beheld, the noble son 280 Of Capaneus, and to Tydides cried : 160 HOMEE'S ILIAD. Book V " Oil son of Tydeus, dearest to my soul, Two men I see, of might invincible, Impatient to engage thee ; Pandarus, Well skill'd in archery, Lycaon's son ; 285 "With him iEneas, great Anchises' son, Who from immortal Yenus boasts his birth. Then let us timely to the car retreat, Lest, moving thus amid the foremost ranks, Thy daring pay the forfeit of thy life." To whom brave Diomed with stern regard : " Talk not to me of flight ! I heed thee not 1 It is not in my nature so to fight With skulking artifice and faint retreat ; My strength is yet unbroken ; I should shame To mount the car ; but forward will I go To meet these chiefs' encounter ; for my soul Pallas forbids the touch of fear to know. Nor shall their horses' speed procure for both A safe return, though one escape my arm. This too I say, and bear my words in mind ; By Pallas' counsel if my hap should be To slay them both, leave thou my horses here, Book v. HOMEK'S ILIAD. 1G1 The reins attaching to the chariot-rail, And seize, and from the Trojans to the ships 305 Drive off the horses in ^Eneas' car ; From those descended, which all-seeing Jove On Tros, for Ganymede his son, bestow'd : "With these may none beneath the sun compare. Anchises, King of men, the breed obtain'd 310 By cunning, to the horses sending mares "Without the knowledge of Laomedon. « Six colts were thus engender'd : four of these In his own stalls he rear'd ; the other two Gave to iEneas, fear-inspiring chief: 315 These could we win, our praise were great indeed." Such converse while they held, the twain approach'd, Their horses urg'd to speed ; then thus began, To Diomed, Lycaon's noble son : " Great son of Tydeus, warrior brave and skill'd, My shaft, it seems, has fail'd to reach thy life ; 321 Try we then now what hap attends my spear." He said ; and, poising, hurl'd his pond'rous spear, And struck Tydides' shield ; right through the shield Drove the keen weapon, and the breastplate reach'd. VOL. I. m 162 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book V Then shouted loud Lycaon's noble son : 326 " Thou hast it through the flank, nor canst thou long Survive the blow : great glory now is mine." To whom, unmov'd, the valiant Diomed : " Thine aim hath failed, I am not touch'd ; and now I deem we part not hence till one of ye 331 Glut with his blood th' insatiate Lord of War." He said : the spear, by Pallas guided, struck Beside the nostril, underneath the eye ; Crash'd thro' the teeth, and cutting thro' the tongue Beneath the angle of the jaw came forth : 336 Down from the car he fell ; and loudly rang His glitt'ring arms : aside the startled steeds Sprang devious : from his limbs the spirit fled. Down leap'd JEneas, spear and shield in hand, 340 Against the Greeks to guard the valiant dead ; And like a lion, fearless in his strength, Around the corpse he stalk'd, this way and that, His spear and buckler round before him held, To all who dar'd approach him threat'ning death, 31-5 With fearful shouts ; a rocky fragment then Tydides lifted up, a mighty mass, Book V. HOMER'S ILIAD. 163 Which scarce two men could raise, as men are now : But he, unaided, lifted it with ease. With this he smote ^Eneas near the groin, 350 Where the thigh-bone, inserted in the hip, Turns in the socket-joint ; the rugged mass The socket crush'd, and "both the tendons broke, And tore away the flesh : down on his knees-, Yet resting on his hand, the hero fell ; 355 And o'er his eyes the shades of darkness spread. Then had iEneas, King of men, been slain, Had not his mother, Yenus, child of Jove, Who to Anchises, where he fed his flocks, The hero bore, his peril quickly seen : 360 Around her son she threw her snowy arms, And with a veil, thick-folded, wrapt him round, From hostile spears to guard him, lest some Greek Should pierce his breast, and rob him of his life. She from the battle thus her son removed ; 365 Nor did the son of Capaneus neglect The strict injunction by Tydides giv'n ; His reins attaching to the chariot-rail, Far from the battle-din he check'd, and left, V 164 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book V. His own fleet steeds ; then rushing forward, seiz'd,370 And from the Trojans tow'rd the camp drove off, The sleek-skinn'd horses of JEneas' car. These to Deijrylus, his chosen friend, He gave, of all his comrades best esteem'd, Of soundest judgment, tow'rd the ships to drive. 375 Then, his own car remounting, seiz'd the reins, And urer'd with easier haste his fierv steeds, Seeking Tydides ; he, meanwhile, press'd on In keen pursuit of Yenus ; her he knew A weak, unwarlike Goddess, not of those 380 That like Bellona fierce, or Pallas, range Exulting through the blood-stain'd fields of war. Her, searching thro' the crowd, at length he found, And springing forward, with his pointed spear A wound inflicted on her tender hand. 385 Piercing th' ambrosial veil, the Graces' work, The sharp spear graz'd her palm below the wrist. Forth from the wound th' immortal current flow'd, Pure ichor, life-stream of the blessed Gods ; They eat no bread, they drink no ruddy wine, 390 And bloodless thence and deathless they become. BookV. HOMER'S ILIAD. 165 The Goddess shriek'd aloud, and dropp'd her son ; But in Iris arms Apollo bore him off In a thick cloud envelop'd, lest some Greek Alight pierce his breast, and rob him of his life. 395 Loud shouted brave Tydides, as she fled : " Daughter of Jove, from battle-fields retire ; Enough for thee weak woman to delude ; If war thou seek'st, the lesson thou shalt learn Shall cause thee shudder but to hear it nam'd." 400 Thus he ; but ill at ease, and sorely pain'd, The Goddess fled : her, Iris, swift as wind, Caught up, and from the tumult bore away, Weeping with pain, her fair skin soil'd with blood. Mars on the left hand of the battle-field 405 She found, his spear reclining by his side, And, veil'd in cloud, his car and flying steeds. Kneeling, her brother she besought to lend The flying steeds, with golden frontlets crown'd : " Dear brother, aid me hence, and lend thy car 410 To bear me to Olyrnpus, seat of Gods ; Great is the pain I suffer from a wound Receiv'd from Diomed, a mortal man, 166 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book Y. Who now would dare with Jove himself to fight." He lent the steeds, with golden frontlets crown'd ; In deep distress she mounted on the car : 416 Beside her Iris stood, and took the reins, And nrg'd the coursers ; nothing loth they flew, And soon to high Olympus, seat of Gods, They came : swift Iris there the coursers stay'd, 420 Loos'd from the chariot, and before them plac'd Ambrosial forage : on her mother's lap, Dione, Yenus fell ; she in her arms Embrac'd, and sooth'd her with her hand, and said : ''"Which of the heav'nly pow'rs hath wrong'd thee thus, My child, as guilty of some open shame ?" 426 Whom answer'd thus the laughter-loving Queen ; " The haughty son of Tydeus, Diomed, Hath wounded me, because my dearest son, iEneas, from the field I bore away. 430 No more 'twixt Greeks and Trojans is the fight, But with the Gods themselves the Greeks contend." To whom Dione, heav'nly Goddess, thus : "Have patieuce, dearest child ; though much enforc'd, Restrain thine anger : we, in Heav'n who dwell, 435 BookV. HOMEE'S ILIAD. 167 Have much to bear from mortals ; and ourselves Too oft upon each other suff'rings lay. Mars had his suff'rings ; by Aloeus' sons, Otus and Ephialtes, strongly bound, He thirteen months in brazen fetters lay : 44U And there had pin'd away the God of War, Insatiate Mars, had not their step-mother, The beauteous Eribcea, sought the aid Of Hermes ; he by stealth releas'd the God, Sore worn and wasted by his galling chains. 445 Juno too suffer'd, when Amphitryon's son Through her right breast a three-barb'd arrow sent : Dire, and unheard of, were the pangs she bore. Great Pluto's self the stinging arrow felt, "When that same son of segis-bearing Jove 450 Assail'd him in the very gates of hell, And wrought him keenest anguish ; pierc'd with pain To high Olympus, to the courts of Jove, Groaning, he came ; the bitter shaft remain'd Deep in his shoulder fix'd, and griev'd his soul. 455 But soon with soothing ointments Papon's hand (For death on him was powerless) heal'd the wound. 168 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book V Accurs'd was lie, of daring over-bold, Beckless of evil deeds, who with his bow Assail'd the Gods, who on Olympus dwell. 460 The blue-ey'd Pallas, well I know, has urg'd Tydides to assail thee ; fool and blind ! Unknowing he how short his term of life Who fights against the Gods ! for him no child Upon his knees shall lisp a father's name, 465 Safe from the war and battle-field return'd. Brave as he is, let Diomed beware He meet not some more dangerous foe than thee. Then fair iEgiale, Adrastus' child, The noble wife of valiant Diomed, 470 Shall long, with lamentations loud, disturb The slumbers of her house, and vainly mourn Her youthful Lord, the bravest of the Greeks." She said ; and wip'd the ichor from the wound ; The hand was heal'd, the grievous pains allay'd. 475 But Juno and Minerva, looking on, "With words of bitter mock'ry Saturn's son Provok'd : and thus the blue-ey'd Goddess spoke : " O Father ! may I speak without offence ? . b«k>k v. HOMEE'S ILIAD. 169 Venus, it seems, has sought to lead astray 480 Some Grecian woman, and persuade to join Those Trojans, whom she holds in high esteem ; And, as her hand the gentle dame caress'd, A golden clasp has scratch'd her slender arm." Thus she : and smil'd the Sire of Gods and men ; 4S5 He call'd the golden Venus to his side, And, " Not to thee, my child," he said, " belong The deeds of war ; do thou bestow thy care On deeds of love, and tender marriage ties ; But leave to Mars and Pallas feats of arms." 490 Such converse while they held, brave Diomed Again assail'd ^Eneas ; well he knew Apollo's guardian hand around him thrown ; Yet by the God undaunted, on he press'd To slay JSneas, and his arms obtain. 495 Thrice was his onset made, with murd'rous aim ; And thrice Apollo struck his glitt'ring shield ; But when, with godlike force, he sought to make His fourth attempt, the Far-destroyer spoke In terms of awful menace : " Be advis'd, 500 Tydides, and retire ; nor as a God 170 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book V. Esteem thyself; since not alike the race Of Gods immortal and of earth-born men." He said ; and Diomed a little space Before the Ear-destroyer's wrath retir'd : 505 Apollo then JEneas bore away Far from the tumult ; and in Pergamus, Where stood his sacred shrine, bestow'cl him safe. Latona there, and Dian, Archer-Queen, In the great temple's innermost recess, 510 Gave to his wounds their care, and sooth'd his pride. Meanwhile Apollo of the silver bow A phantom form prepar'd, the counterpart Of great ./Eneas, and alike in arms : Around the form, of Trojans and of Greeks, 515 Loud was the din of battle ; fierce the strokes That fell on rounded shield of tough bull's-hide. And lighter targe, before each warrior's breast. Then thus Apollo to the God of War : "Mars ! Mars ! thou bane of mortals, blood-stain'd Lord, Eazer of cities, wer't not well thyself 521 To interpose, and from the battle-field Withdraw this chief, Tydides ? such his pride, BookV. HOMER'S ILIAD. 171 He now would dare with Jove himself to fight. Venus, of late, he wounded in the wrist ; 525 And, like a God, "but now confronted me." He said, and sat on Ilium's topmost height : While Mars, in likeness of the Thracian chief, Swift Acamas, amid the Trojan ranks Mov'd to and fro, and urg'd them to the fight. 530 To Priam's Heav'n-descended sons he call'd ; " Te sons of Priam, Heav'n-descended King, How long will ye behold your people slain ? Till to your very doors the war be brought \ iEneas, noble-soul'd Anchises' son, 535 In like esteem with Hector held, is down ; On to his aid ! our gallant comrade save ! " He said ; his words fresh courage gave to all : Then thus Sarpedon, in reproachful tone, Address'd the godlike Hector : " Where is now, 540 Hector, the spirit that heretofore was thine ? 'Twas once thy boast that ev'n without allies Thyself, thy brethren, and thy house, alone The city could defend : for all of these I look in vain, and see not one ; they all, 545 172 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book V. As curs around a lion, cow'r and crouch : We, strangers and allies, maintain the light. I to your aid, from lands afar remote, From Lycia came, by Xanthus' eddying stream ; There left a cherish'd wife, and infant son, 550 And rich possessions, which might envy move ; Yet I my troops encourage ; and myself Have play'd my part, though nought have I to lose, bought that the Greeks could drive or bear away ; But thou stand'st idly by; nor bidd'st the rest 555 Maintain their ground, and guard their wives and homes. Beware lest ye, as in the meshes caught Of some wide-sweeping net, become the prey And booty of your foes, who soon shall lay Your prosp'rous city level with the dust. 5G0 By day and night should this thy thoughts engage, "With constant pray'r to all thy brave allies, Firmly to stand, and wipe this shame away." He said ; and Hector felt the biting speech ; Down from his car he leap'd ; and through the ranks, Two jav'lins brandishing, he pass'd, to arms 566 Exciting all, and rais'd his battle-cry. BoouV. HOMER'S ILIAD. 173 The tide was turn'd ; again they fac'd the Greeks : In serried ranks the Greeks, undaunted, stood. As when the wind from off a threshing-floor, 570 Where men are winnowing, blows the chaff away ; When yellow Ceres with the breeze divides The corn and chaff, which lies in whit'ning heaps ; So thick the Greeks were whiten'd o'er with dust, Which to the brazen vault of Heav'n arose 575 Beneath the horses' feet, that with the crowd Were mingled, by their drivers turn'd to flight. Unwearied still, they bore the brunt ; but Mars The Trojans succouring, the battle-field Yeil'd in thick clouds, fromev'ry quarter brought. 580 Thus he of Phoebus of the golden sword Obey'd th' injunction, bidding him arouse The courage of the Trojans, when he saw Pallas approaching to support the Greeks. Then from the wealthy shrine Apollo's self 585 iEneas brought, and vigour fresh infus'd : Amid his comrades once again he stood ; They joy'd to see him yet alive, and sound, And full of vigour ; yet no question ask'd : 174 HOMEE'S ILIAD. Book V. "No time for question then, amid the toils 59C Impos'd by Phoebus of the silver bow, And blood-stain'd Mars, and Discord unappeas'd. Meanwhile Ulysses, and th' Ajaces both, And Diomed, with courage for the fight The Grecian force inspir'd ; they undismay'd 595 Shrank not before the Trojans' rush and charge ; In masses firm they stood, as when the clouds Are gather'd round the misty mountain top By Saturn's son, in breathless calm, while sleep The force of Boreas and the stormy wiuds, 600 That with their breath the shadowy clouds disperse ; So stood the Greeks, nor shunn'd the Trojans' charge. Through all the army Agamemnon pass'd, >( And cried, " Brave comrades, quit ye now like men ; Bear a stout heart ; and in the stubborn fight, 005 Let each to other mutual succour give ; By mutual succour more are sav'd than fall ; In timid flight nor fame nor safety lies." Thus he : and straight his jav'lin threw, and struck A man of mark, Eneas' faithful friend, 610 Deicoon, the son of Pergasus, BookV. HOMER'S ILIAD. 175 By Troy, as ever foremost in the field, In equal honour held with Priam's sons. His shield the monarch Agamemnon struck ; The shield's defence was vain; the spear pas&'d through Beneath the belt, and in his groin was lodg'd ; 616 Thund'ring he fell, and loud his armour rang. On th' other side, ^Eneas slew two chiefs, The bravest of the Greeks, Orsilochus And Crethon, sons of Diodes, who dwelt 620 In thriving Phera ; rich in substance he, And from the mighty River Alpheus trae'd His high descent, who through the Pylian land His copious waters pours ; to him was born Orsilochus, of num'rous tribes the chief; 625 To him succeeded valiant Diodes ; To whom were born twin sons, Orsilochus And Crethon, skill'd in ev'ry point of war. They, in the vigour of their youth, to Troy Had sail'd amid the dark-ribb'd ships of Greece, 630 Of Atreus' sons the quarrel to uphold ; But o'er them both the shades of death were spread. As two young lions, by their tawny dam 176 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book V. Nurs'd in the mountain forest's deep recess, On flocks and herds their youthful fury pour, 635 "With havoc to the sheepfolds, till themselves Succumb, o'ermaster'd by the hand of man : So fell these two beneath ^Eneas' hand, And like two lofty pines in death they lay. The warlike Meneliius saw their fall 640 With pitying eye ; and through the foremost ranks With brandish'd spear advane'd, by Mars impell'd, Who hop'd his death by great ^Eneas' hand. Him Nestor's son, Antilochus, beheld, And hasten'd to his aid ; for much he fear'd 645 Lest ill befall the monarch, and his death Deprive them of their warlike labours' fruit. They two, with force combined of hand and spear, Press'd onward to the fight ; Antilochus His station keeping close beside the King. 650 Before the two combined, JEneas fear'd, Bold warrior as he was, to hold his ground. The slain they drew within the Grecian lines, Placed in their comrades' hands, and turning back Amid the foremost mingled in the fray. 655 BookV. HOMER'S ILIAD. 177 Then, brave as Mars, Pylaemenes they slew, The bucHer'd Paphlagonians' warlike chief; Him Men elaus, hand to hand engag'd, Pierc'cl with a spear-thrust through the collar-bone ; While, with a pond'rous stone, Antilochus 660 Full on the elbow smote Atymnius' son, Mydon, his charioteer, in act to turn His fiery steeds to flight ; down from his hands Tell to the ground the iv'ry-mounted reins. On rush'd Antilochus, and with his sword 665 Across the temples smote him ; gasping, he Upon his neck and shoulders from the car Pitch'd headlong ; and (for there the sand was deep) Awhile stood balanc'd, till the horses' feet Dash'd him upon the ground ; Antilochus, 670 The horses seizing, drove them to the ships. Hector beheld athwart the ranks, and rush'd, Loud shouting, to th' encounter ; at his back Folio w'd the thronging bands of Troy, by Mars And tierce Bellona led ; she by the hand 675 Wild Uproar held ; while Mars a giant spear Brandish'd aloft : and stalking now before, VOL. I. N 178 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book V. Now following after Hector, urg'd them on. Quail' d at the sight the valiant Diomed : As when a man, long journeying o'er the plain, 680 All unprepar'd, stands sudden on the brink Of a swift stream, down rushing to the sea, Boiling with foam, and back recoils ; so then Recoil'd Tydides, and address'd the crowd : " O friends, we maiwel at the might display'd 685 By Hector, spearman skill'd and warrior bold ; But still some guardian God his steps attends, And shields from danger ; now beside him stands, In likeness of a mortal, Mars himself. Then turning still your faces to your foes, 690 Retire, nor venture with the Gods to fight." . He said ; the Trojans now were close at hand, And, mounted both upon a single car, Two chiefs, Menesthes and Anchialus, "Well skill'd in war, by Hector's hand were slain. 695 With pitying eyes great Ajax Telamon Beheld their fall ; advancing close, he threw His glitt'ring spear ; the son of Selagus It struck, Amphius, who in Psesus dwelt. BookV. IIOMEK'S ILIAD. 179 In land and substance rich ; by evil fate 700 Trnpell'd, to Priam's house he brought his aid. Below the belt the spear of Ajax struck, And in his groin the point was buried deep ; Thund'ring he fell; then forward Ajax sprang To seize the spoils of war ; but fast and fierce 705 The Trojans show'r'd their weapons bright and keen, And many a lance the mighty shield receiv'd. Ajax, his foot firm planted on the slain, Withdrew the brazen spear ; yet could not strip His armour off, so galling flew the shafts ; 710 And much he fear'd his foes might hem him in, Who closely press'd upon him, many and brave ; And, valiant as he was, and tall, and strong, Still drove him backward ; he perforce retired. Thus labour'd they amid the stubborn fight. 715 Then evil fate indue'd Tlepolemus, Yaliant and strong, the son of Hercules, Heav'n-born Sarpedon to confront in fight. When near they came, of cloud-compelling Jove Grandson and son, Tlepolemus began : 720 u Sarpedon, Lycian chief, what brings thee here, 180 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book V. Trembling and crouching, all unskill'd in war ? Falsely they speak who fable thee the son Of aegis-bearing Jove ; so far art thon Beneath their mark who claim'd in elder days 725 That royal lineage : such my father was, Of courage resolute, of lion heart. With but six ships, and with a scanty band, The horses by Laomedon withheld Avenging, he o'erthrew this city, Troy, 730 And made her streets a desert ; but thy soul Is poor, thy troops are wasting fast away ; JNor deem I that the Trojans will in thee (Ev'n were thy valour more) and Lycia's aid Their safeguard find ; but vanquish'd by my hand, 735 This day the gates of Hades thou shalt pass." To whom the Lycian chief, Sarpedon, thus : " Tlepolemus, the sacred walls of Troy Thy sire o'erthrew, by folly of one man, Laomedon, who with injurious words 740 His noble service recompens'd ; nor gave The promis'd steeds, for which he came from far. For thee, I deem thou now shalt meet thy doom BookY. HOMER'S ILIAD. 181 Here, at my hand ; on thee my spear shall win Renown for me, thy soul to Hades send." 745 Tims as Sarpedon spoke, Tlepolenras Uprais'd his ashen spear ; from both their hands The pond'rons weapons simultaneous flew. Full in the throat Tlepolemus receiv'd Sarpedon's spear ; right through the neck it pass'd, 750 And o'er his eyes the shades of death were spread. On th' other side his spear Sarpedon struck On the- left thigh ; the eager weapon pass'd Right through the flesh, and in the bone was fix'd ; The stroke of death his father turn'd aside. 755 Sarpedon from the field his comrades bore, Weigh'd down and tortured by the trailing speai , For, in their haste to bear him to his car, Not one bethought him from his thigh to draw The weapon forth ; so sorely were they press'd. 760 The Greeks too from the battle-field convey'd The slain Tlepolemus ; Ulysses saw, Patient of spirit, but deeply mov'd at heart ; And with conflicting thoughts his breast was torn, If first he should pursue the Thund'rer's son, 765 182 HOMEE'S ILIAD. Book V Or deal destruction on the Lycian host. But fate had not decreed the valiant son Of Jove to fall "beneath Ulysses' hand ; So on the Lycians Pallas torn'd his wrath. Alastor then, and Cceranus he slew, 770 Chromius, Alcander, Halius, Prytanis, Koemon : nor had ended then the list Of Lycian warriors by Ulysses slain ; But Hector of the glancing helm beheld ; Through the front ranks he rush'd, withburnish'd crest Resplendent, flashing terror on the Greeks ; 776 With joy Sarpedon saw his near approach, And with imploring tones address'd him thus : " Hector, thou son of Priam, leave me not A victim to the Greeks, but lend thine aid : 780 Then in your city let me end my days : For not to me is giv'n again to see My native land ; or, safe returning home, To glad my sorrowing wife and infant child." Thus he ; but Hector, answ'ring not a word, 785 Pass d on in silence, hasting to pursue The Greeks, and pour destruction on their host. BookV. HOMER'S ILIAD. 183 Beneath the oak of segis-bearing Jove His faithful comrades laid Sarpedon down, And from his thigh the valiant Pelagon, 790 His lov'd companion, drew the ashen spear. fie swoon'd. and giddy mists o'erspread his eyes : But soon reviv'd, as on his forehead blew, While yet he gasp'd for breath, the cooling breeze. By Mars and Hector of the brazen helm 795 ^he Greeks hard-press'd, yet fled not to their ships, ISfor yet sustain'd the fight ; but back retir'd Soon as they learned the presence of the God. Say then who first, who last, the prowess felt Of Hector, Priam's son, and mail-clad Mars ? S00 The godlike Teuthras first, Orestes next, Bold charioteer ; th' iEtolian spearman skill'd, Trechus, QSnomaus, and Helenns, The son of CEnops ; and Oresbius, girt With sparkling girdle ; he in Hyla dwelt, 805 The careful Lord of boundless wealth, beside Cephisus' marshy banks ; Boeotia's chiefs Around him dwelt, on fat and fertile soil. Juno, the white-arm'd Queen, who saw these two 184: HOMER'S ILIAD. Book V. The Greeks destroying in the stubborn fight, 810 To Pallas thus her winged words address'd : " O Heav'n ! brave child of ssgis-bearing Jove, Vain was our word to Menelaus giv'n. That he the well-built walls of Troy should raze, And safe return, if unrestrain'd we leave 815 Ferocious Mars to urge his mad career. Come then ; let us too mingle in the fray." She said : and Pallas, blue-ey'd Maid, complied. Offspring of Saturn, Juno, heav'nly Queen, Herself th' immortal steeds caparison'd, 820 Adorn'd with golden frontlets : to the car Hebe the circling wheels of brass attach'd, Eight-spok'd, that on an iron axle turn'd ; The felloes were of gold, and fitted round "With brazen tires, a marvel to behold ; 825 The naves were silver, rounded every way : The chariot-board on gold and silver bands Was hung, and round it ran a double rail : The pole was all of silver ; at the end A golden yoke, with golden yoke-bands fair : 830 And Juno, all on fire to join the fray, Book V. HOMER'S ILIAD. 185 Beneath the yoke the flying coursers led. Pallas, the child of aegis-bearing Jove, Within her father's threshold dropp'd her veil, Of airy texture, work of her own hands ; 835 The cuirass donn'd of cloud-compelling Jove, And stood accoutred for the bloody fray. Her tassell'd regis round her shoulders next She threw, with Terror circled all around ; And on its face were figur'd deeds of arms, 840 And Strife, and Courage high, and panic Rout ; There too a Gorgon's head, of monstrous size, Frown'd terrible, portent of angry Jove : And on her head a golden helm she plac'd, Four-crested, double-peak'd, whose ample verge 845 A hundred cities' champions might suffice : Her fiery car she mounted : in her hand A spear she bore, long, weighty, tough ; wherewith The mighty daughter of a mighty sire Sweeps down the ranks of those her hate pursues. 850 Then Juno sharply touch'd the flying steeds : Forthwith spontaneous opening, grated harsh The heavenly portals, guarded by the Hours, 186 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book V. Who Heav'n and high Olympus have in charge To roll aside, or draw the veil of cloud. 855 Through these th' excited horses held their way. They found the son of Saturn, from the Gods Sitting apart, upon the highest crest Of many-ridg'd Olympus ; there arriv'd, The white-arm'd Goddess Juno stav'd her steeds, 860 And thus address'd the Sov'reign Lord of Heav'n : " Father Jove ! canst thou behold unmov'd The violence of Mars ? how many Greeks, Reckless and uncontroll'd, he hath destroy'd ; To me a source of bitter grief; meanwhile 865 Yenus and Phoebus of the silver bow Look on, well pleas'd, who sent this madman forth, To whom both law and justice are unknown. Say, Father Jove, shall I thine anger move, If with disgrace I drive him from the field ?" 870 To whom the Cloud-compeller thus replied : " Go, send against him Pallas ; she, I know, Hath oft inflicted on him grievous pain." He said : the white-arm'd Queen with joy obey'd ; She urg'd her horses ; nothing loth, they flew 875 BookV. HOMER'S ILIAD. 187 Midway between the earth and starry Heav'n : Far as his sight extends, who from on high Looks from his watch-tow'r o'er the dark-blue sea, So far at once the neighing horses bound. But when to Troy they came, beside the streams 880 "Where Simois'and Scamander's waters meet, The white-arm'd Goddess stay'd her flying steeds, Loos'd from the car, and veil'd in densest cloud. For them, at bidding of the river-God, Ambrosial forage grew : the Goddesses, 885 Swift as the wild wood-pigeon's rapid flight, Sped to the battle-field to aid the Greeks. But when they reach'd the thickest of the fray, Where throng'd around the might of Diomed The bravest and the best, as lions fierce, 890 Or forest-boars, the mightiest of their kind, There stood the white-arm'd Queen, and call'd aloud, In form of Stentor, of the brazen voice, Whose shout was as the shout of fifty men : " Shame on ye, Greeks, base cowards ! brave alone In outward semblance ; while Achilles yet 890 Went forth to battle, from the Dardan gates 188 HOMEE'S ILIAD. Book V, The Trojans never ventur'd to advance, So dreaded they his pond'rous spear ; but now Far from the walls, beside your ships, they fight." 900 She said : her words their drooping courage rous'd. Meanwhile the blue-ey'd Pallas went in haste In search of Tydeus' son ; beside his car She found the King, in act to cool the wound Inflicted by the shaft of Pandarus : 905 Beneath his shield's broad belt the clogging sweat Oppress'd him, and his arm was faint with toil ; The belt was lifted up, and from the wound He wip'd the clotted blood : beside the car The Goddess stood, and touch'd the yoke, and said : " Little like Tydeus' self is Tydeus' son : 911 Low was his stature, but his spirit was high : And ev'n when I from combat rashly wag'd "Would fain have kept him back, what time in Thebes He found himself, an envoy and alone, 915 Without support, among the Thebans all, I counsell'd him in peace to share the feast : But by his own impetuous courage led, He challenged all the Thebans to contend . Book V. HOMER'S ILIAD. 189 With him in wrestling, and o'erthrew them all 920 With ease ; so mighty was the aid I gave. Thee now I stand beside, and guard from harm, And hid thee boldly with the Trojans fight. But, if the labours of the battle-field O'ertask thy limbs, or heartless fear restrain, 925 No issue thou of valiant Tydeus' loins." "Whom answer'd thus the valiant Diomed : ' I know thee, Goddess, who thou art ; the child Of a}gis-bearing Jove : to thee my mind I freely speak, nor aught will I conceal. 930 Nor heartless fear, nor hesitating doubt, Restrain me ; but I bear thy words in mind, With other of th' Immortals not to fight : But should Jove's daughter, Yenus, dare the fray, At her I need not shun to throw my spear. 935 Therefore I thus withdrew, and others too Exhorted to retire, since Mars himself [ saw careering o'er the battle-field." To whom the blue-ey'd Goddess, Pallas, thus : ; ' Thou son of Tydeus, dearest to my soul, 940 Fear now no more with Mars himself to fight, 190 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book V. ISTor other God ; such aid will I bestow. Come then ; at him the first direct thy car ; Encounter with him hand to hand ; nor fear To strike this madman, this incarnate curse, 945 This shameless renegade j who late agreed With Juno and with me to combat Troy, And aid the Grecian cause ; who now appears, The Greeks deserting, in the Trojan ranks." Thus Pallas spoke, and stretching forth her hand. Backward his comrade Sthenelus she drew 951 From off the chariot ; down in haste he sprang. His place beside the valiant Diomed The eager Goddess took ; beneath the weight Loud groan'd the oaken axle ; for the car 955 A mighty Goddess and a Hero bore. Then Pallas took the whip and reins, and urg'd Direct at Mars the fiery coursers' speed. The bravest of th' JEtolians, Periphas, Ochesius' stalwart son, he just had slain, 9G0 And stood in act to strip him of his arms. The helmet then of Darkness Pallas donn'd, To hide her presence from the sight of Mars : BookY. HOMER'S ILIAD. 191 But when the blood-stain'd God of War beheld Advancing tow'rd him godlike Diomed, 965 The corpse of stalwart Periphas he left, There where he fell, to lie ; while he himself Of valiant Diomed th' encounter met. When near they came, first Mars his pond'rous spear Advanc'd beyond the yoke and horses' reins, 970 With rnurd'rous aim ; but Pallas from the car [Turn'd it aside, and foil'd the vain attempt. Then Diomed thrust forward in his turn His pond'rous spear ; low on the flank of Mars, Gruided by Pallas, with successful aim, 975 I Just where the belt was girt, the weapon struck : [t pierc'd the flesh, and straight was back withdrawn : Then Mars cried out aloud, with such a shout As if nine thousand or ten thousand men Should simultaneous raise their battle-cry : 9S0 Trojans and Greeks alike in terror heard, Trembling ; so fearful was the cry of Mars. As black with clouds appears the darken'd air, When after heat the blust'ring winds arise, So Mars to valiant Diomed appear'd, 985 192 HOMEE'S ILIAD. Book v. As in thick clouds lie took his heav'nward flight. With speed he came to great Olympus' heights, Th' abode of Gods ; and sitting by the throne Of Saturn's son, with anguish torn, he show'd Th' immortal stream that trickled from the wound, 990 And thus to Jove his piteous words address'd : " O Father Jove, canst thou behold unmov'd These acts of violence ? the greatest ills We Gods endure, we each to other owe Who still in human quarrels interpose. 995 Of thee we all complain ; thy senseless child Is ever on some evil deed intent. The other Gods, who on Olympus dwell, Are all to thee obedient and submiss ; But thy pernicious daughter, nor by word 1000 Nor deed dost thou restrain ; who now excites Th' o'erbearing son of Tydeus, Diomed, Upon th' immortal Gods to vent his rage. Venus of late he wounded in the wrist, And, as a God, but now encounter'd me : 1095 Barely I 'scap'd by swiftness of my feet; Else, 'mid a ghastly heap of corpses slain, ', BookV. HOMEE'S ILIAD. 193 In anguish had I lain ; and, if alive, Yet liv'd disabl'd by his weapon's stroke." "Whom answer'd thus the Cloud-compeller, Jove, With look indignant : " Come no more to me, 1011 Thou wav'ring turncoat, with thy whining pray'rs : Of all the Gods who on Olympus dwell I hate thee most ; for thou delight'st in nought But strife and war ; thou hast inherited 1015 Thy mother, Juno's, proud, unbending mood, WTiom I can scarce control ; and thou, methinks, To her suggestions ow'st thy present plight. Yet since thou art my offspring, and to me Thy mother bore thee, I must not permit 1020 That thou should'st long be doom'd to suffer pain ; But had thy birth been other than it is, For thy misdoings thou hadst long ere now Been banish'd from the Gods' companionship." He said : and straight to Paeon gave command To heal the wound ; with soothing anodynes 1026 He heal'd it quickly ; soon as liquid milk Is curdled by the fig-tree's juice, and turns In whirling flakes, so soon was heal'd the wound. VOL i. 194 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book V. By Hebe bath'd, and rob'd afresh, he sat 1030 In health and strength restor'd, by Saturn's son.- Mars thus arrested in his murd'rous course. Together to th' abode of Jove return'd The Queen of Argos and the blue-ey'd Maid. 1034 ARGUMENT. THE EPISODES OP GLATTCUS AND DIOMED, AND OP HECTOR AND ANDROMACHE. The gods having left the field, the Grecians prevail. Helenus, the chief augur of Troy, commands Hector to return to the city, in order to appoint a solemn procession of the Queen and the Tro- jan matrons to the temple of Minerva, to entreat her to remove Diomed from the fight. The battle relaxing during the absence of Hector, Glaucus and Diomed have an interview between the two armies ; where, coming to the knowledge of the friendship and hospitality past between their ancestors, they make exchange of their arms. Hector, having performed the orders of Helenus, prevailed iipon Paris to return to the battle, and taken a tender leave of his wife Andromache, hastens again to the field. The scene is first in the field of battle, between the rivers Simois and Scamander, and then changes to Troy. Book VI. HOMEE'S ILIAD. 197 BOOK VI. rFHE Gods had left the field, and o'er the plain Hither and thither surg'd the tide of war, As couch'd th' opposing chiefs their brass-tipp'd spears, Midway 'twixt Simois' and Scamander's streams. First through the Trojan phalanx broke his way 5 The son of Telamon, the prop of Greece, The mighty Ajax ; on his friends the light Of triumph shedding, as Eusorus' son He smote, the noblest of the Thracian bands, Yaliant and strong, the gallant Acamas. 10 Full in the front, beneath the plumed helm, The sharp spear struck, and crashing thro' the bone, The warrior's eyes were clos'd in endless night. Next valiant Diomed Axylus slew, The son of Teuthranes, who had his home 15 In fair Arisba ; rich in substance he, And lov'd of all ; for, dwelling near the road, 198 HOMEK'S ILIAD. Book VI He op'd to all liis hospitable gate ; But none of all he entertain'd was there To ward aside the bitter doom of death : 20 There fell they both, he and his charioteer, Calesius, who athwart the battle-field His chariot drove ; one fate o'ertook them both. Then Dresus and Opheltius of their arms Euryalus despoil'd ; his hot pursuit 25 .SCsepus next, and Pedasus assail'd, Brothers, whom Abarbarea, Naiad nymph, To bold Bucolion bore ; Bucolion, son Of great Laomedon, his eldest born, I Though bastard : he upon the mountain side, 30 On which his flocks he tended, met the nymph, And of their secret loves twin sons were born ; "WTiom now at once Euryalus of strength And life depriv'd, and of their armour stripp'd. By Polypcetes' hand, in battle strong, 35 "Was slain Astyalus ; Pidutes fell, Chief of Percote, by Ulysses' spear ; And Teucer godlike Aretaon slew. Antilochus, the son of ISTestor, smote tJooxVl. HOMER'S ILIAD. 199 With gleaming lance Ablerus ; Elatus 40 By Agamemnon, King of men, was slain, Who dwelt bj Satnois' widely-flowing stream, Upon the lofty heights of Pedasus. By Leitus was Phylacus in flight O'erta'en ; Eurypylus Melanthins slew. 45 Then Menelaus, good in battle, took Adrastus captive ; for his horses, scar'd And rushing wildly o'er the plain, amid The tangled tamarisk scrub his chariot broke, Snapping the pole \ they with the flying crowd 50 Held city-ward their course ; he from the car HuiTd headlong, prostrate lay beside the wheel, Prone on his face in dust ; and at his side, Poising his mighty spear, Atrides stood. Adrastus clasp'd his knees, and suppliant cried, 55 " Spare me, great son of Atreus ! for my life Accept a price ; my wealthy father's house A goodly store contains of brass, and gold, And well- wrought iron ; and of these he fain "Would pay a noble ransom, could he hear 60 That in the Grecian ships I yet surviv'd." 200 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book VI His words to pity mov'd the victor's breast ; Then had he bade his followers to the ships The captive bear ; but running up in haste, Fierce Agamemnon cried in stern rebuke ; 65 " Soft-hearted Menelaus, why of life So tender ? Hath thy house receiv'd iudeed Nothing but benefits at Trojan hands ? Of that abhorred race, let not a man Escape the deadly vengeance of our arms ; 70 No, not the infant in its mother's womb ; No, nor the fugitive ; but be they all, They and their city, utterly destroyed, Uncar'd for, and from mem'ry blotted out." Thus as he spoke, his counsel, fraught with death, His brother's purpose chang'd ; he with his hand 76 Adrastus thrust aside, whom with his lance Fierce Agamemnon through the loins transfix'd ; And, as he roll'd in death, upon his breast Planting his foot, the ashen spear withdrew. 8C Then loudly Nestor shouted to the Greeks : " Friends, Grecian heroes, ministers of Mar? ! Loiter not now behind, to throw yourselves Book VI. HOMER'S ILIAD. 201 Upon the prey, and bear it to the ships ; Let all jour aim be now to kill ; anon 85 Ye may at leisure spoil jour slaughters! foes." With words like these he fir'd the blood of all. ]S ow had the Trojans by the warlike Greeks In coward flight within their walls been driv'n ; But to iEneas and to Hector thus 90 The son of Priam, Helenus, the best Of all the Trojan seers, address'd his speech : "JEneas, and thou Hector, since on jou, Of all the Trojans and the Ljcian hosts, Is laid the heaviest burthen, for that je 95 Excel alike in council and in fight, Stand here awhile, and moving to and fro On ev'rj side, around the gates exhort The troops to rallj, lest thej fall disgrac'd, Fljing for safetj to their women's arms, 100 And foes, exulting, triumph in their shame. Their courage thus restor'd, worn as we are, We with the Greeks will still maintain the tight, For so, perforce, we must ; but, Hector, thou Haste to the citj ; there our mother find, 105 202 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book Vt JBotli thine and mine ; on Ilium s topmost height By all the aged dames accompanied, Bid her the shrine of blue-ey'd Pallas seek ; Unlock the sacred gates ; and on the knees Of fair-hair'd Pallas place the fairest robe 110 In all the house, the amplest, best esteem'd ; And at her altar vow to sacrifice Twelve yearling kine that never felt the goad, So she have pity on the Trojan state, Our wives, and helpless babes, and turn away 115 The fiery son of Tydeus, spearman fierce, The Minister of Terror ; bravest he, In my esteem, of all the Grecian chiefs : For not Achilles' self, the prince of men, Though Goddess-born, such dread inspir'd ; so fierce 120 His rage ; and with his prowess none may vie." He said, nor uncomplying, Hector heard His brother's counsel ; from his car he leap'd In arms upon the plain ; and brandish'd high His jav'lins keen, and moving to and fro 125 The troops encourag'd, and restor'd the fight. Rallying they turn'd, and fac'd again the Greeks : L Book VI. HOMER'S ILIAD. 203 These ceas'd from slaughter, and in turn gave way, Deeming that from the starry Ileav'n some God Had to the rescue come ; so fierce they turn'd. 130 Then to the Trojans Hector call'd aloud : " Te valiant Trojans, and renown' d Allies, Quit you like men ; remember now, brave friends, Your wonted valour ; I to Ilium go To bid our wives and rev'rend Elders raise 135 To Heav'n their pray'rs, with vows of hecatombs." Thus saying, Hector of the glancing helm Turn'd to depart ; and as he mov'd along, The black bull's-hide his neck and ancles smote, The outer circle of his bossy shield. 140 Then Tydeus' son, and Glaucus, in the midst, Son of Hippolochus, stood forth to fight ; But when they near were met, to Glaucus first The valiant Diomed his speech address'd : " "Who art thou, boldest man of mortal birth 2 115 For in the glorious conflict heretofore ne'er have seen thee ; but in daring now Thou far surpassest all, who hast not fear'd To face my spear ; of most unhappy sires 204 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book VI Tlie children they, "who my encounter meet. 150 But if from Iieav'n thou com'st, and art indeed A God, I fight not with the heav'nly powers. Not long did Dryas' son, Lycurgus brave, Survive, who dar'd th' Immortals to defy : He, 'mid their frantic orgies, in the groves 155 Of lovely Nyssa, put to shameful rout The youthful Bacchus' nurses ; they, in fear, Dropp'd each her thyrsus, scatter'd by the hand Of fierce Lycurgus, with an ox-goad arm'd. Bacchus himself beneath the ocean wave 160 In terror plung'd, and, trembling, refuge found In Thetis' bosom from a mortal's threats : The Gods indignant saw, and Saturn's son Smote him with blindness ; nor surviv'd he long, Hated alike by all th' immortal Gods. 165 I dare not then the blessed Gods oppose ; But be thou mortal, and the fruits of earth Thy food, approach, and quickly meet thy doom." To whom the noble Glaucus thus replied : " Great son of Tydeus, why my race enquire ? 170 y The race of man is as the race of leaves : Book VI. HOMER'S ILIAD. 205 Of leaves, one generation by the wind Is scattered on the earth ; another soon In spring's luxuriant verdure bursts to light. So with our race ; these nourish, those decay. 175 But if thou wonldst in truth enquire and learn The race I spring from, not unknown of men ; There is a city, in the deep recess Of pastoral Argos, Ephyre by name : There Sisyphus of old his dwelling had, 180 Of mortal men the craftiest ; Sisyphus, The son of .zEolus ; to him was born Glaucus ; and Glaucus in his turn begot Bellerophon, on whom the Gods bestow'd The gifts of beauty and of manly grace. 185 But Proetus sought his death ; and, mightier far, From all the coasts of Argos drove him forth, To Proetus subjected by Jove's decree. For him the monarch's wife, Antsea, nurs'd A madd'ning passion, and to guilty love 19C Would fain have tempted him ; but fail'd to move The upright soul of chaste Bellerophon. "With lying words she then address'd the King : 206 HOMEE'S ILIAD. Book VI. ; Die, Prcetus, thou, or slay Belleroplion, "Who basely sought my honour to assail.' 195 The King with anger listen'd to her words ; Slay him he would not ; that his soul abhorr'd ; But to the father of his wife, the King Of Lycia, sent him forth, with tokens charg'd Of dire import, on folded tablets trac'd, 200 Pois'ning the monarch's mind, to work his death. To Lycia, guarded by the Gods, he went ; But when he came to Lycia, and the streams Of Xanthus, there with hospitable rites The King of wide-spread Lycia welcom'd him. 205 JSTine days he feasted him, nine oxen slew ; But with the tenth return of rosy morn He question'd him, and for the tokens ask'd He from his son-in-law, from Proetus, bore. The tokens' fatal import understood, 210 He bade him first the dread Chiinagra slay ; A monster, sent from Heav'n, not human born, TVith head of lion, and a serpent's tail, And body of a goat ; and from her mouth There issued flames of fiercely-burning fire : 215 Book VI. HOMER'S ILIAD. 207 Yet her, confiding in the Gods, he slew. Next, with the valiant Solymi he fought, The fiercest fight that e'er he undertook. Thirdly, the women-warriors he o'erthrew, The Amazons ; from whom returning home, 220 The King another stratagem devis'd ; For, choosing out the best of Lycia's sons, He set an ambush ; they return'd not home, For all by brave Bellerophon were slain. But, by -his valour when the King perceiv'd 225 His heav'nly birth, he entertain'd him well ; Gave him his daughter ; and with her the half Of all his royal honours he bestow'd : A portion too the Lycians meted out, Fertile in corn and wine, of all the state 230 The choicest land, to be his heritage. Three children there to brave Bellerophon "Were born ; Isander, and Hippolochus, Laodamia last, belov'd of Jove, The Lord of counsel ; and to him she bore 235 Godlike Sarpedon of the brazen helm. Bellerophon at length the wrath incurr'd 208 HOMEE'S ILIAD. Book VI. Of all the Gods ; and to tli' Aleian plain Alone lie wander'd ; there he wore away His soul, and shunn'd the busy haunts of men. 240 Insatiate Mars his son Isander slew In battle with the valiant Solymi : His daughter perish'd by Diana's wrath. I from Hippolochus my birth derive : To Troy he sent me, and enjoin'd me oft 245 To aim at highest honours, and surpass My comrades all ; nor on my father's name Discredit bring, who held the foremost place In Ephyre, and Lycia's wide domain. Such is my race, and such the blood I boast." 250 He said ; and Diomed rejoicing heard : His spear he planted in the fruitful ground, And thus with friendly words the chief address'd : " By ancient ties of friendship are we bound ; For godlike (Eneus in his house receiv'd 255 For twenty days the brave Bellerophon ; They many a gift of friendship interchang'd ; A belt, with crimson glowing, (Eneus gave ; Bellerophon a double cup of gold, Book VI. HOMER'S ILIAD. 209 Which in my house I left when here I came. 260 OF Tydeus no remembrance I retain : For yet a child he left me, when he fell "With his Achaians at the gate of Thebes. So I in Argos am thy friendly host ; ' Thon mine in Lycia, when I thither come : 265 Then shim we, e'en amid the thickest fight, Each other's lance ; enough there are for me Of Trojans and their brave allies to kill, As Heav'n may aid me, and my speed of foot ; And Greeks enough there are for thee to slay, 270 If so indeed thou canst ; but let us now / Our armour interchange, that these may know What friendly bonds of old our houses join." Thus as they spoke, they quitted each his car ; Clasp'd hand in hand, and plighted mutual faith. 275 Then Glaucus of his judgment Jove depriv'd, His armour interchanging, gold for brass, A hundred oxen's worth for that of nine. Meanwhile, when Hector reach'd the oak beside The Sccean gate, around him throng'd the wives 2S0 Of Troy, and daughters, anxious to enquire VOL. I. p 210 HOMEK'S ILIAD. Book Vl Tlie fate of children, brothers, husbands, friends ; He to the Gods exhorted all to pray, For deep the sorrows that o'er many hung. But when to Priam's splendid house he came, 2 "5 With polish'd corridors adorn'd — within "Were fifty chambers, all of polish'd stone, Plac'd each by other ; there the fifty sons Of Priam with their wedded wires repos'd ; On th' other side, within the court were built 290 Twelve chambers, near the roof, of polish'd stone. Plac'd each by other ; there the sons-in-law Of Priam with their spouses chaste repos'd ; To meet him there his tender mother came, And with her led the young Laodice, 295 Fairest of all her daughters ; clasping then His hands, she thus address'd him : " Why, my son. Why com'st thou here, and leav'st the battle-field ? Are Troians bv those hateful sons of Greece, Fighting around the city, sorely press'd ? 300 And com'st thou, by thy spirit mov'd, to raise, On Ilium's heights, thy hands in pray'r to Jove ? But tarry till I bring the luscious wine, Book VI. HOMER'S ILIAD. 211 That first to Jove, and to th' Immortals all, Thou mayst thine off 'ring pour ; then with the draught Thyself thou mayst refresh ; for great the strength 306 Which gen'rous wine imparts to men who toil, As thou hast toil'd, thy comrades to protect." To whom great Hector of the glancing helm : "No, not for me, mine honour'd mother, pour 310 The luscious wine, lest thou unnerve my limbs, And make me all my wonted prowess lose. The ruddy wine I dare not pom* to Jove "With hands unwash'd ; nor to the cloud-girt son Of Saturn may the voice of pray'r ascend 315 From one with blood bespatter'd and defil'd. Thou, with the elder women, seek the shrine Of Pallas ; bring your gifts ; and on the knees Of fair-kair'd Pallas place the fairest robe In all the house, the amplest, best esteem'd ; 320 And at her altar vow to sacrifice Twelve yearling kine, that never felt the goad ; So she have pity on the Trojan state, Our wives, and helpless babes ; and turn away The fiery son of Tydeus, spearman fierce, 325 212 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book 7 L The Minister of Terror ; to the shrine Of Pallas thou ; to Paris I, to call If haply he will hear ; would that the earth "Would gape and swallow him ! for great the curse That Jove thro' him hath brought on men of Troy, 33C On noble Priam, and on Priam's sons. Could I but know that he were in his grave, Methinks mv sorrows I could half forget." He said : she, to the house returning, sent Th' attendants through the city, to collect 335 The train of aged suppliants ; she meanwhile Her fragrant chamber sought, wherein were stor'd Rich garments by Sidonian women work'd, Whom godlike Paris had from Sidon brought, Sailing the broad sea o'er, the selfsame path 340 By which the high-born Helen he convey'd. Of these, the richest in embroidery, . The amplest, and the brightest, as a star Refulgent, plac'd with care beneath the rest, The Queen her off'ring bore to Pallas' shrine : 345 She went, and with her many an ancient dame. But when the shrine they reach'd on Ilium's height, Book VI. HOMER'S ILIAD. 213 Theano, fair of face, the gates unlock'd, Daughter of Cisseus, sage Antenor's wife, By Trojans uam'd at Pallas' shrine to serve. 350 They with deep moans to Pallas rais'd their hands ; But fair Theano took the robe, and plac'd On Pallas' knees, and to the heav'nly Maid, Daughter of Jove, she thus address'd her pray'r : " Guardian of cities, Pallas, awful Queen, 355 Goddess of Goddesses, break thou the spear Of Tydeus' son ; and grant that he himself Prostrate before the Scsean gates may fall ; So at thine altar will we sacrifice Twelve yearling kine, that never felt the goad, 360 If thou have pity on the state of Troy, The wives of Trojans, and their helpless babes." Thus she ; but Pallas answer'd not her pray'r. While thus they call'd upon the heav'nly Maid, Hector to Paris' mansion bent his way ; 365 A noble structure, which himself had built Aided by all the best artificers Who in the fertile realm of Troy were known ; With chambers, hall, and court, on Ilium's height, 214 HOMEE'S ILIAD. Book Vt Near to where Priam's self and Hector dwelt. 370 There enter'd Hector, well belov'd of Jove ; And in his hand his pond'rons spear he bore, Twelve cubits long ; bright flash'd the weapon's point Of polish' d brass, with circling hoop of gold. There in his chamber found he whom he sought, 375 About his armour busied, polishing His shield, his breastplate, and his bended bow. "While Argive Helen, 'mid her maidens plac'd, The skilful labours of their hands o'erlook'd. To liim thus Hector with reproachful words ; 380 " Thou dost not well thine anger to indulge ; In battle round the city's lofty wall The people fast are falling ; thou the cause That fiercely thus around the city burns The flame of war and battle ; and thyself 385 Wouldst others blame, who from the fight should shrink. Up, ere the town be wrapp'd in hostile fires." To whom in answer godlike Paris thus : " Hector, I own not causeless thy rebuke ; Yet will I speak ; hear thou and understand ; 390 'Twas less from anger with the Trojan host, BookVL HOMER'S ILIAD. 215 And fierce resentment, that I here remain'd, Than that I sought my sorrow to indulge ; Yet hath nay wife, e'en now, with soothing words Urg'd me to join the battle ; so, I own, 395 Twere best ; and Yict'iy changes oft her side. Then stay, while I my armour don ; or thou Go first : I, following, will o'ertake thee soon." He said : but Hector of the fflancins; helm Made answer none ; then thus with gentle tones 400 Helen accosted him : " Dear brother mine, (Of me, degraded, sorrow-bringing, vile !) Oh that the day my mother gave me birth Some storm had on the mountains cast me forth ! Or that the many-dashing ocean's waves 405 Had swept me off, ere all this woe were wrought ! Yet if these evils were of Heav'n ordain'd, Would that a better man had call'd me wife ; A sounder judge of honour and disgrace : For he, thou know'st, no firmness hath of mind, 410 N< >r ever will ; a want he well may rue. But come thou in, and rest thee here awhile, Dear brother, on this couch ; for travail sore 216 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book VL Encompasseth thy soul, by me impos'd, Degraded as I am, and Paris' guilt ; 415 On whom this burthen Heav'n hath laid, that shame On both our names through years to come shall rest," To whom great Hector of the p'lancino; helm : " Though kind thy wish, yet, Helen, ask me not To sit or rest; I cannot yield to thee : 420 For to the succour of our friends I haste, Who feel my loss, and sorely need my aid. But thou thy husband rouse, and let him speed, ' That he may find me still within the walls. For I too homeward go ; to see once more 425 My household, and my wife, and infant child : For whether I may e'er again return, I know not, or if Ileav'n have so decreed, That I this day by Grecian hands should fall." Thus saying, Hector of the glancing helm 430 Turn'd to depart ; with rapid step he reach'd His own well-furnished house, but found not there His white-arm'd spouse, the fair Andromache. She with her infant child and maid the while Was standing, bath'd in tears, in bitter grief, 435 Hook VI. HOMER'S ILIAD. 217 On Ilium's topmost tower : but when her Lord Found not within the house his peerless wife, Upon the threshold pausing, thus he spoke : ; ' Tell me, my maidens, tell me true, which way Your mistress went, the fair Andromache ; 440 t)r to my sisters, or my brothers' wives? Dr to the temple where the fair-hair'd dames Df Troy invoke Minerva's awful name ? ' : To whom the matron of his house replied : 1 Hector, if truly we must answer thee, 445 iSTot to thy sisters, nor thy brothers' wives, Nor to the temple where the fair-hair'd dames bf Troy invoke Minerva's awful name, But to the height of Ilium's topmost tow'r Andromache is gone ; since tidings came 450 The Trojan force was overmatch'd, and great The Grecian strength ; whereat, like one distract, She hurried to the walls, and with her took, Borne in the nurse's arms, her infant child." 454 So spoke the ancient dame ; and Hector straight Through the wide streets his rapid steps retrae'd. But when at last the mighty city's length 21S HOMER'S ILIAD. Book VI "Was travers'd, and the Seasan gates were reach'd, Whence was the outlet to tlie plain, in haste Running to meet him came his priceless wife, 460 Eetion's daughter, fair Andromache ; Eel ion, who from Thebes Cilicia sway'd, Thebes, at the foot of Placos' wooded heights. His child to Hector of the brazen helm Was giv'n in marriage : she it was who now 465 Met him, and by her side the nurse, who bore, Clasp'd to her breast, his all unconscious child, Hector's lov'd infant, fair as morning star ; "Whom Hector call'd Seaman drius, but the rest Astyanax, in honour of his sire, 470 The matchless chief, the only prop of Troy. Silent he smil'd as on his boy he gaz'd : But at his side Andromache, in tears, Hung on his arm, and thus the chief address'd : " Dear Lord, thy dauntless spirit will work thy doom : Nor hast thou pity on this thy helpless child, 476 Or me forlorn, to be thy widow soon : For thee will all the Greeks with force combin'd Assail and slay : for me, 'twere better far, BookVL HOMER'S ILIAD. 219 Of thee bereft, to lie beneath the sod ; 480 Nor comfort shall be mine, if thou be lost, But endless grief; to me nor sire is left, Nor honour'd mother ; fell Achilles' hand My sire Eetion slew, what time his arms The populous city of Cilicia raz'd, 485 The lofty-gated Thebes ; he slew indeed, But stripp'd him not ; he reverenc'd the dead ; And o'er his body, with his armour burnt, A mound erected ; and the mountain nymphs, The progeny of regis-bearing Jove, 490 Planted around his tomb a grove of elms. There were sev'n brethren in my father's house ; All in one day they fell, amid their herds And fleecy flocks, by fierce Achilles' hand. My mother, Queen of Placos' wooded height, 495 Brought with the captives here, he soon releas'd For costly ransom ; but by Dian's shafts She, in her father's house, was stricken down. But, Hector, thou to me art all in one, Sire, mother, brethren ! thou, my wedded love ! 500 Then pitying us, within the tow'r remain, 220 HOMEE'S ILIAD. Book YI Nor make thy cliild an orphan, and thy wife A hapless widow ; by the fig-tree here Array thy troops ; for here the city wall, Easiest of access, most invites assault. 505 Thrice have their boldest chiefs this point assail'd, The two Ajaces, brave Idomeneus, Th' Atridse both, and Tydens' warlike son, Or by the prompting of some Heav'n-taught seer, Or by their own advent'rous courage led." 510 To whom great Hector of the glancing helm ; " Think not, dear wife, that by such thoughts as these My heart has ne'er been wrung ; but I should blush To face the men and long-rob'd dames of Troy, If, like a coward, I could shun the fight. 515 Nor could my soul the lessons of my youth So far forget, whose boast it still has been In the fore-front of battle to be found, Charg'd with my father's glory and mine own. Yet in my inmost soul too well I know, 520 The day must come when this our sacred Troy, And Priam's race, and Priam's royal self Shall in one common ruin be o'erthrown. Book VI HOMEfi'S ILIAD. 221 But not the thoughts of Troy's impending fate, Nor Hecuba's nor royal Priam's woes, 525 Nor loss of brethren, numerous and brave, By hostile hands laid prostrate in the dust, So deeply wring my heart as thoughts of thee, Thy days of freedom lost, and led away A weeping captive by some brass-clad Greek ; 530 Haply in Argos, at a mistress' beck, Condemn'd to ply the loom, or water draw From Hypereia's or Messeis' fount, Heart-wrung, by stern necessity constrain'd. 534 Then they who see thy tears perchance may say, 4 Lo ! this was Hector's wife, who, when they fought On plains of Troy, was Ilium's bravest chief.' Thus may they speak ; and thus thy grief renew For loss of him, who might have been thy shield To rescue thee from slav'ry's bitter hour. 540 Oh may I sleep in dust, ere be condemn'd To hear thy cries, and see thee dragg'd away ! " Thus as he spoke, great Hector stretch'd his arms To take his child ; but back the infant shrank, Crying, and sought his nurse's shelt'ring breast, 545 222 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book VI, Scar'd by the brazen helm and horse-hair plume, That nodded, fearful, on the warrior's crest. Laugh'd the fond parents both, and from his brow Hector the casque remov'd, and set it down, 549 All elitt'ring, on the ground : then kiss'd his child, *OJ And danc'd him in his arms ; then thus to Jove And to th' Immortals all address'd his pray'r : " Grant, Jove, and all ye Gods, that this my son May be, as I, the foremost man of Troy, For valour fam'd, his country's guardian King ; 555 That men may say, ' This youth surpasses far His father,' when they see him from the fight, From slaughter'd foes, with bloody spoils of war Returning, to rejoice his mother's heart!" Thus saying, in his mother's arms he plac'd 560 His child ; she to her fragrant bosom clasp'd, Smiling through tears ; with eyes of pitying love Hector beheld, and press'd her hand, and thus Address'd her — " Dearest, wring not thus my heart ! For till my day of destiny is come, 5 Go No man may take my life ; and when it comes, Nor brave nor coward can escape that day. book VI. HOMER'S ILIAD. 223 But go thou home, and ply thy household cares, The loom and distaff, and appoint thy maids Their sev'ral tasks ; and leave to men of Troy 570 And, chief of all to me, the toils of -war." Great Hector said, and rais'd his plumed helm ; And homeward, slow, with oft-reverted eyes, Shedding hot tears, his sorrowing wife return'd. Arriv'd at valiant Hector's well-built house, 575 Her maidens press'd around her ; and in all Arose at once the sympathetic grief. For Hector, yet alive, his household mourn'd, Deeming he never would again return, Safe from the fight, by Grecian hands unharm'd. 580 Nor linger'd Paris in his lofty halls ; But donn'd his armour, glitt'ring o'er with brass, And through the city pass'd with bounding steps. As some proud steed, at well-fill'd manger fed, His halter broken, neighing, scours the plain, 585 And revels in the widely-flowing stream To bathe his sides ; then tossing high his head, While o'er his shoulders streams his ample mane, Light borne on active limbs, in conscious pride, 224 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book VL To the wide pastures of the mares he flies ; 590 So Paris, Priam's son, from Ilium's height, His bright arms flashing like the gorgeous sun, Hasten'd, with boastful mien, and rapid step. Hector he found, as from the spot he tum'd Where with his wife he late had converse held ; 505 Whom thus the godlike Paris first address'd : " Too long, good brother, art thou here detain'd, Impatient for the fight, by my delay ; Nor have I timely, as thou bad'st me, come." To whom thus Hector of the glancing helm : 600 " My gallant brother, none who thinks aright Can cavil at thy prowess in the field ; For thou art very valiant; but thy will Is weak and sluggish ; and it grieves my heart, When from the Trojans, who in thy behalf 605 Such labours undergo, I hear thy name Coupled with foul reproach ! But go we now ! Henceforth shall all be well, if Jove permit That from our shores we drive th' invading Greeks, And to the ever-living Gods of Heav'n 610 In peaceful homes our free libations pour." 611 ARGUMENT. THE SEKGLE COAIBAT OF HECTOR AND AJAX. The battle renewing with double ardour upon the return of Hector, Minerva is under apprehensions for the Greeks. Apollo, seeing her descend from Olympus, joins her near the Scsean gate. They agree to put off the general engagement for that day, and incite Hector to challenge the Greeks to a single combat. Nine of the princes accepting the challenge, the lot is cast, and falls upon Ajax. These heroes, after several attacks, are parted by the night. The Trojans calling a council, Antenor proposes the delivery of Helen to the Greeks, to which Paris will not consent, but offers to restore them her riches. Priam sends a herald to make this offer, and to demand a truce for burning the dead, the last of which only is agreed to by Agamemnon. When the funerals are performed, the Greeks, pursuant to the advice of Nestor, erect a fortification to protect their fleet and camp, flanked with towers, and defended by a ditch and palisades. Neptune testifies his jealousy at this work, but is pacified by a promise from Jupiter. Both armies pass the night in feasting, but Jupiter disheartens the Trojans with thunder and other signs of his wrath. The three-and-twenticth day ends with the duel of Hector and Ajax ; the next day the truce is agreed : another is taken up in the fu- neral rites of the slain; and one more in building tne fortifica- tion before the ships; so that somewhat above three days is employed in this book. The scene lies wholly in the field. Book VII. HOMEE'S ILIAD. 227 BOOK VII. nnHUS as he spoke, from out the city gates The noble Hector pass'd, and by his side His brother Paris ; in the breast of both Burnt the fierce ardour of the battle-field. As when some God a fav'ring breeze bestows 5 On seamen tugging at the well-worn oar, Faint with excess of toil, ev'n so appear'd Those brethren twain to Troy's o'erlabour'd host. Then to their prowess fell, by Paris' hand Menesthius, royal Areithous' son, 10 "Whom to the King, in Arna, where he dwelt, The stag-ey'd dame Phylomedusa bore ; While Hector smote, with well-directed spear, Beneath the brass-bound headpiece, through the throat, Eioneus, and slack'd his limbs in death ; 15 And Glaucus, leader of the Lycian bands, 228 HOIEE'S ILIAD. Book VII. Son of Hippolochus, amid the fray Iphinous, son of Dexias, borne on high By two fleet mares upon a lofty car, Pierc'd through the shoulder ; from the car he fell 20 Prone to the earth, his limbs relax'd in death. But them when Pallas saw, amid the fray Dealing destruction on the hosts of Greece, From high Olympus to the walls of Troy She came in haste ; Apollo there she found, 25 As down he look'd from Ilium's topmost tow'r, Devising vict'ry to the arms of Troy. Beside the oak they met ; Apollo first, The son of Jove, the colloquy began : " Daughter of Jove, from great Olympus' heights, 30 Why com'st thou here, by angry passion led ? Wouldst thou the vict'ry, swaying here and there, Give to the Greeks ? since pitiless thou see'st The Trojans slaughter'd ? Be advis'd by me, For so 'twere better ; cause we for to-day 35 The rage of battle and of war to cease ; To-morrow morn shall see the fight renew'd, Until the close of Ilium's destiny ; Hook VII. HOMER'S ILIAD. 229 For so ye Goddesses have wrought your will, That this fair city should in ruin fall." 40 To whom the blue-ey'd Goddess thus replied : " So be it, Archer-lung ; with like intent I from Olympus came ; but say, what means Wilt thou devise to bid the conflict cease ?" To whom Apollo, royal son of Jove : 45 *' The might of valiant Hector let us move To challenge to the combat, man to man, Some Grecian warrior ; while the brass-clad Greeks Their champion urge the challenge to accept, And godlike Hector meet in single fight." 50 He said ; nor did Minerva not assent ; But Helenus, the son of Priam, knew The secret counsel by the Gods devis'd ; And drawing near to Hector, thus he spoke : " Hector, thou son of Priam, sage as Jove 55 In council, hearken to a brother's words. Bid that the Greeks and Trojans all sit down, And thou defy the boldest of the Greeks With thee in single combat to contend ; By revelation from th' eternal Gods, 00 230 HOMEK'S ILIAD. Book VII I know that here thou shalt not meet thy fate." He said, and Hector joy'd to hear his words ; Forth in the midst he stepp'cl, and with his spear Grasp'd in the middle, stay'd the Trojan ranks. With one accord they sat ; on th' other side 65 Atrides bade the well-greav'd Greeks sit down ; "While, in the likeness of two vultures, sat On the tall oak of aegis-bearing Jove, Pallas, and Phoebus of the silver bow, "With heroes' deeds delighted ; dense around 70 Bristled the ranks, with shield, and helm, and spear. As when the west wind freshly blows, and brings A dark'ning ripple o'er the ocean waves, E'en so appear'd upon the plain the ranks Of Greeks and Trojans ; standing in the midst, 75 Thus to both armies noble Hector spoke : " Hear, all ye Trojans, and ye well-greav'd Greeks, The words I speak, the promptings of my soul. It hath not pleas'd high-thron'd Saturnian Jove To ratify our truce, who both afflicts 80 "With labours hard, till either ye shall take Our well-fenc'd city, or yourselves to us Book VII. HOMEE'S ILIAD. 231 Succumb beside your ocean-going ships. Here have ye all the chiefest men of Greece ; Of all, let him who dares with me to fight, 85 Stand forth, and godlike Hector's might confront. And this I say, and call to witness Jove, If with the sharp-edg'd spear he vanquish me, He shall strip off, and to the hollow ships In triumph bear my armour ; but my corpse 90 Restore, that so the men and wives of Troy May deck with honours due my funeral pyre. But, by Apollo's grace should I prevail, I will his arms strip off and bear to Troy, And in Apollo's temple hang on high ; 95 But to the ships his corpse I will restore, That so the long-hair'd Greeks with solemn rites May bury him, and to his mem'ry raise By the broad Hellespont a lofty tomb ; An d men in days to come shall say, who urge 100 Their full-oar'd bark across the dark-blue sea, ' Lo there a warrior's tomb of days gone by, A mighty chief, whom glorious Hector slew :' Thus shall they say, and thus my fame shall live." 232 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book VII Thus Hector spoke ; they all in silence heard, 105 Sham'd to refuse, but fearful to accept. At length in anger Menelaus rose, Groaning in spirit, and with bitter words Eeproach'd them: "Shame, ye braggart cowards, shame ! Women of Greece ! I cannot call you men ! 110 'Twere foul disgrace indeed, and scorn on scorn, If Hector's challenge none of all the Greeks Should dare accept ; to dust and water turn All ye who here inglorious, heartless sit ! I will myself confront him ; for success, 115 Th' immortal Gods above the issues hold." Thus as he spoke, he donn'd his dazzling arms. Then, Menelaus, had thine end approach'd By Hector's hands, so much the stronger he, Had not the Kings withheld thee and restraind. 120 Great Agamemnon's self, wide-ruling King, Seizing his hand, address'd him thus by name : " What ! Heav'n-born Menelaus, art thou mad 1 Beseems thee not such folly ; curb thy wrath, Though vex'd ; nor think with Hector to contend, 125 Thy better far, inspiring dread in all. Book VII. HOMEE'S ILIAD. 233 From his encounter in the glorious fight, Superior far to thee, Achilles shrinks ; But thou amid thy comrades' ranks retire ; Some other champion will the Greeks provide ; 130 And, fearless as he is, and of the fight Insatiate, yet will Hector, should he 'scape Unwounded from the deadly battle-strife, Be fain, methinks, to rest his weary limbs." He said, and with judicious counsel sway'd 135 His brother's mind ; he yielded to his words, And gladly his attendants doff 'd his arms. Then Nestor rose, and thus address'd the Greeks : " Alas, alas ! what shame is this for Greece ! What grief would fill the aged Peleus' soul, 140 Sage chief in council, of the Myrmidons Leader approv'd, who often in his house Would question me, and lov'd from me to hear Of all the Greeks the race and pedigree, Could he but learn how Hector cow'd them all ! 145 He to the Gods with hands uprais'd would pray His soul might from his body be divorc'd, And sink beneath the earth ! Oh would to Jove, 234 HOMEE'S ILIAD. Book V1L To Pallas and Apollo, such were now My vig'rous youth, as when beside the banks 150 Of swiftly-flowing Celadon, the men Of Pylos with th' Arcadian spearmen fought, By Pheia's walls, around Iardan's streams. Then from the ranks, in likeness as a God, Advanc'd their champion, Ereuthalion bold. 155 The arms of Areithous he wore : Of godlike Areithous, whom men And richly-girdled women had surnam'd The Macebearer ; for not with sword or bow He went to fight, but with an iron mace 160 Broke through the squadrons : him L^curgus slew, By stealth, not brav'ry, in a narrow way, Where nought avail'd his iron mace from death To save him ; for Lycurgus, with his spear, Preventing, thrust him through the midst ; he fell 165 Prostrate ; and from his breast the victor stripp'd His armour off, the gift of brass-clad Mars ; And in the tug of war he wore it oft ; But when Lycurgus felt th' approach of age, He to his faithful follower and friend, 170 Book VII. HOMER'S ILIAD. 235 To Ereutlialion gave it ; therewith, arm'd, He now to combat challeng'd all the chiefs. None dar'd accept, for fear had fallen on all ; Then I with dauntless spirit his might oppos'd, The youngest of thern all ; with him I fought, 175 And Pallas gave the vict'ry to my arm. Him there I slew, the tallest, strongest man ; For many another there beside him lay. Would that my youth and strength were now the same ; Then soon should Hector of the glancing helm 180 A willing champion find ; but ye, of Greece The foremost men, with Hector fear to fight." The old man spoke reproachful ; at his words Up rose nine warriors : far before the rest, The monarch Agamemnon, King of men ; 185 Next Tydeus' son, the valiant Diomed ; The two Ajaces, cloth'd with courage high ; Idorneneus, and of Idomeneus The faithful follower, brave Meriones, Equal in fight to blood-stain'd Mars ; with these 190 Eurypylus, Eusemon's noble son ; Thoas, Anclrgemon's son ; Ulysses last : 236 HOMEE'S ILIAD. Book VH These all with Hector offer'd to contend. Then thus again Gerenian Nestor spoke : " Shake then the lots ; on whomsoe'er it fall, 195 Great profit shall he bring to Grecian arms, Great glory to himself, if he escape Un wounded from the deadly "battle strife." He said : each mark'd his sev'ral lot, and all Together threw in Agamemnon's helm. 200 The crowd, with hands uplifted, pray'd the Gods, And looking heav'nward, said, " Grant, Father Jove, The lot on Ajax, or on Tydeus' son, Or on Mycenae's wealthy King may fall." Thus they : then aged Nestor shook the helm, 205 And forth, according to their wish, was thrown The lot of Ajax ; then from left to right A herald show'd to all the chiefs of Greece, In turn, the token ; they who knew it not, Disclaini'd it all ; but when to him he came 210 Who mark'd, and threw it in Atrides' helm, The noble Ajax, and, approaching, placed The token in his outstretch'd hand, forthwith He knew it, and rejoie'd ; before his feet book VII. HOMER'S ILIAD. 237 He threw it down upon the ground, and said, 215 " O friends, the lot is mine ; great is my joy, And hope o'er godlike Hector to prevail. But now, while I my warlike armour don, Pray ye to Saturn's royal son, apart, In silence, that the Trojans hear ye not ; 220 Or ev'n aloud, for nought have we to fear. No man against my will can make me fly, By greater force or skill ; nor will, I hope, My inexperience in the field disgrace The teaching of my native Salamis." 225 Thus he ; and they to Saturn's royal son Address'd their pray'rs, and looking heav'nward, said : " Father Jove, who rul'st on Ida's height ! Most great ! most glorious ! grant that Ajax now May gain the vict'ry,and immortal praise : 230 Or if thy love and pity Hector claim, Give equal pow'r and equal praise to both." Ajax meanwhile in dazzling brass was clad ; And when his armour all was duly donn'd, Forward he mov'd, as when gigantic Mars 235 Leads nations forth to war, whom Saturn's son 238 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book VII. In life-destroying conflict hath involv'd ; So mov'd the giant Ajax, prop of Greece, "With sternly smiling mien ; with haughty stride lie trod the plain, and pois'd his pond'rons spear. 240 The Greeks, rejoicing, on their champion gaz'd, The Trojans' limbs beneath them shook with fear ; Ev'n Hector's heart beat quicker in his breast ; Yet quail he must not now, nor back retreat Amid his comrades — he, the challenger ! 245 Ajax approach' d ; before him, as a tow'r His mighty shield he bore, sev'n-fold, brass-bound, The work of Tychius, best artificer That wrought in leather ; he in Hyla dwelt. Of sev'n-fold hides the pond'rous shield was wrought Of lusty bulls ; the eighth was glitt'ring brass. 251 This by the son of Telamon was borne Before his breast ; to Hector close he came, And thus with words of haughty menace spoke : " Hector, I now shall teach thee, man to man, 255 The mettle of the chiefs we yet possess, Although Achilles of the lion heart, Mighty in battle, be not with us still ; Book VIJ. HOMER'S ILIAD. 239 He by Iris ocean-going ships indeed Against Atrides nurses still his wrath ; 260 Yet are there those who dare encounter thee, And not a few ; then now begin the fight." To whom great Hector of the glancing helm : " Ajax, brave leader, son of Telamon, Deal not with me as with a feeble child, 265 Or woman, ign'rant of the ways of war ; Of war and carnage every point I know ; And well I know to wield, now right, now left, The tough bull's-hide that forms my stubborn targe : Well know I too my fiery steeds to urge, 270 And raise the war-cry in the standing fight. But not in secret ambush would I watch, To strike, by stealth, a noble foe like thee ; But slay thee, if I may, in open fight." He said ; and, poising, hurl'd his pond'rous spear ; The brazen cov'ring of the shield it struck, 276 The outward fold, the eighth, above the sev'n Of tough bull's-hide ; through six it drove its way With stubborn force ; but in the seventh was stay'd. Then Ajax hurl'd in turn his pond'rous spear, 280 >£ 240 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book VIL And struck the circle true of Hector's shield ; Right thro' the glitt'ring shield the stout spear pass'd, And thro' the well-wrought breastplate drove its way ; And, underneath, the linen vest it tore ; 284 But Hector, stooping, shunn'd the stroke of death. "Withdrawing then their weapons, each on each They fell, like lions fierce, or tusked hoars, In strength the mightiest of the forest beasts. Then Hector fairly on the centre struck The stubborn shield ; yet drove not through the spear ; For the stout brass the blunted point repell'd. 291 But Ajax, with a forward bound, the shield Of Hector pierc'd ; right through the weapon pass'd ; Arrested with rude shock the warrior's course, And graz'd his neck, that spouted forth the blood. 295 Yet did not Hector of the glancing helm Flinch from the contest : stooping to the ground, With his broad hand a pond'rous stone he seiz'd, That lay upon the plain, dark, jagg'd, and huge, And hurl'd against the sev'n-fold shield, and struck Full on the central boss ; loud rang the brass : 301 Then Ajax rais'd a weightier mass of rock Book VII. HOMER'S ILIAD. 241 And sent it "whirling, giving to his ami Unmeasur'd impulse ; with a millstone's weight It crush'd the buckler ; Hector's knees gave way ; 305 Backward he stagger'd, yet upon his shield Sustain'd, till Phoebus rais'd him to his -feet. Wow had they hand to hand with swords engag'd, Had not the messengers of Gods and men, The heralds, interpos'd ; the one for Troy, 310 The other umpire for the brass-clad Greeks, Talthybius and Idaeus, well approv'd. Between the chiefs they held their wands, and thus Idseus both with prudent speech address'd : " Wo more, brave youths ! no longer wage the light : To cloud-compelling Jove ye both are dear, 316 Both valiant spearmen ; that, we all have seen. Night is at hand ; behoves us yield to night." Whom answer'd thus the son of Telamon : " Idaeus, bid that Hector speak those words : 320 He ch alienor' d all our chiefs : let him beojin : If he be willing, I shall not refuse." To whom great Hector of the glancing helm : " Ajax, since God hath giv'n thee size, and strength, VOL. I. R. / 242 HOMEK'S ILIAD. Book VIL And skill ; and with the spear, of all the Greeks 325 None is thine equal ; cease we for to-day The fight ; hereafter we may meet, and Heav'n Decide our cause, and one with vict'ry crown. Night is at hand ; behoves us yield to night. So by the ships shalt thou rejoice the Greeks, 330 And most of all, thy comrades and thy friends ; And so shall I, in Priam's royal town, Rejoice the men of Troy, and long-rob'd dames, "Who shall with grateful pray'rs the temples throng. But make we now an interchange of gifts, 335 That both the Trojans and the Greeks may say, ' On mortal quarrel did those warriors meet, Yet parted thence in friendly bonds conjoin'd.' " This said, a silver-studded sword he gave, "With scabbard and with well-cut belt complete ; 340 Ajax a girdle, rich with crimson dye. They parted ; Ajax to the Grecian camp, And Hector to the ranks of Troy return'd : Great was the joy when him they saw approach, Alive and safe ; escap'd from Ajax' might 345 And arm invincible ; and tow'rd the town cook VII. HOMEE'S ILIAD. 243 They led liim back, beyond their hope preserv'd ; "While to Atrides' tent the well-greav'd Greeks Led Ajax, glorying in his triumph gain'd. But when to Agamemnon's tents they came, 350 The King of men to Saturn's royal son A bullock slew, a male of five years old ; The carcase then they flay'd ; and cutting up, Sever'd the joints ; then fixing on the spits, Roasted with care, and from the fire withdrew. 355 Their labours ended, and the feast prepar'd, They shar'd the social meal, nor lack'd there aught. To Ajax then the chine's continuous length, As honour's meed, the mighty monarch gave. The rage of thirst and hunger satisfied, 360 The aged Nestor first his mind disclos'd ; He who, before, the sagest counsel gave, Now thus with prudent speech began, and said : " Atrides, and ye other chiefs of Greece, Since many a long-hair'd Greek hatlt fall'n in fight, 365 Whose blood, beside Scamander's flowing stream, Fierce Mars has shed, while to the viewless shades Their spirits are gone, behoves thee with the morn 244 HOMEB'S ILIAD. Book YI1 The warfare of the Gree.:- : intermit : Tlien we, with oxen and with mules, the dead 370 From all the plain will draw ; and. from the ships A little space reniov'd, will burn with fire : That we. returning to our native 11 .y to their children bear our comrades^ bor. T^en will we go, and on the plain ere und the pyre one common mound for all ; Then quickly build before it lofty tow'rs To screen both ships and men ; and in the to - Alake ample portals, with well-fitting gates, at through the midst a carriage-way may p.-- : 380 i a deep trench around it dig. to guard I a men and chariots, lest on our defence e haughty Trojans should too hardly press." He said ; and all the Kings his words approv' Meanwhile, on Hiunrs height, at Priam's gat . 385 1 he Trojan chiefs a troubled council held ; v . ..Ich op'ning, thus the sage Antenor spoke: "' Hear no" . ye T. >jans, Darian;. and Allies, The words I speak, the promptings of my soul. Back to the sons of Atrena let us sire 390 Book VII. HOMER'S ILIAD. 2±5 The Argive Helen, and the goods she brought ; For now in breach of plighted faith we tight ; Hot can I hope, unless to my advice Ye listen, that success will crown our arms." Thus having said, he sat : and next arose 393 The godlike Paris, fair-kair'd Helen's Lord : "Who thus with winged words the chiefs address'd : " Hostile to me. Antenor, is thy speech ; Thy better judgment better counsel knows ; But if in earnest such is thine advice. 400 Thee of thv senses have the Gods bereft. Now, Trojans, hear my answer; I reject The counsel, nor the woman will restore ; But for the ffoods, whate'er I hither brought To Troy from Argos, I am well content 405 To give them all, and others add beside." This said, he sat ; and aged Priam next, A God in council, Dardan's son, arose. Who thus with prudent, speech began, and said : " Hear now, ye Trojans, Dardans, and Allies, 410 The words I speak, the promptings of my soul : Now through the citv take your wonted meal ; 246 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book VII. Look to your watch, let each man keep his guard : To-morrow shall Idseus to the ships Of Greece, to both the sons of Atreus, bear 415 The words of Paris, cause of all this war ; And ask besides, if from the deadly strife Such truce they will accord us as may serve To burn the dead ; hereafter we may fight Till Heav'n decide, and one with vict'ry crown." 42C He said ; and they, obedient to his word, Throughout the ranks prepar'd the wonted meal : But with the morning to the ships of Greece Idseus took his way : in council there By Agamemnon's leading ship he found 425 The Grecian chiefs, the ministers of Mars : And 'mid them all the clear-voic'd herald spoke : " Ye sons of Atreus, and ye chiefs of Greece, From Priam, and the gallant sons of Troy, I come, to bear, if ye be pleas'd to hear, 430 The words of Paris, cause of all this war : The goods which hither in his hollow ships (Would he had perish'd rather !) Paris brought, He will restore, and others add beside ; Book VII. HOMEE'S ILIAD. 247 But further says, the virgin-wedded wife 435 Of Meneliius, though the gen'ral voice Of Troy should bid him, he will not restore : Then bids me ask, if from the deadly strife Such truce ye will accord us as may serve To burn the dead : hereafter we may fight 440 Till ITeav'n decide, and one with vict'ry crown." Thus he : they all in silence heard ; at length Uprose the valiant Diomed, and said ; " Let none from Paris now propose to accept Or goods, or Helen's self ; a child may see 445 That now the doom of Troy is close at hand." He said ; the sons of Greece, with loud applause, The speech of valiant Diomed confirm'd. Then to Idaeus Agamemnon thus : "Idseus, thou hast heard what answer give 450 The chiefs of Greece — their answer I approve. But for the truce, for burial of the dead, I nought demur ; no shame it is to grace With fun'ral rites the corpse of slaughter'd foes. Be witness, Jove ! and guard the plighted truce." 455 He said : and heav'nward rais'd his staff ; and back 248 HOMEE'S ILIAD. Book VIL To Ilium's walls Idaeus took his way. Trojans and Dardans there in council met Expecting sat, till from the Grecian camp Idauis should return ; he came, and stood 460 In mid assembly, and his message gave : Then all in haste their sev'ral ways dispers'd, For fuel some, and some to bring the dead. The Greeks too from their well-mann'd ships went forth For fuel some, and some to bring the dead. 465 The sun was newly glancing on the earth. From out the ocean's smoothly-flowing depths Climbing the Heav'ns, when on the plain they met. Hard was it then to recognize the dead ; But when the gory dust was wash'd away, 470 Shedding hot tears, they plac'd them on the wains. ISTor loud lament, by Priam's high command, "Was heard ; in silence they, with grief suppress'd, Heap'd up their dead upon the fun'ral pyre ; Then burnt with fire, and back return'd to Troy. 475 The well-greav'd Greeks, they too, with grief suppress'd, Heap'd up their dead upon the fun'ral pyre ; Then burnt with fire, and to the ships return'd. Book VII. HOMER'S ILIAD. 249 But ere 'twas morn, while daylight strove with night, About the pyre a chosen band of Greeks 480 Had kept their vigil, and around it rais'd Upon the plain one common mound for all ; And built in front a wall, with lofty tow'rs To screen both ships and men ; and in the tow'rs Made ample portals with well-fitting gates, 485 That through the midst a carriage-way might pass : Then dug a trench around it, deep and wide, And in the trench a palisade they fix'd« Thus labour'dthro' the night the long-hair'd Greeks : The Gods, assembled in the courts of Jove, 490 With wonder view'd the mighty work ; and thus Neptune, Earth-shaking King, his speech began : " O Father Jove, in all the wide-spread earth Shall men be found, in counsel and design To rival us Immortals ? see'st thou not 495 How round their ships the long-hair'd Greeks have built A lofty wall, and dug a trench around, Nor to the Gods have paid their off 'rings due ! Wide as the light extends shall be the fame Of this great work, and men shall lightly deem 500 250 HOMEK'S ILIAD. Book VIL Of that which I and Phoebus jointly rais'd, "With toil and pain, for great Laomedon." To whom in wrath the Cloud-compeller thus : " Neptune, Earth-shaking King, what words are these ? This bold design to others of the Gods, 505 Of feebler hands, and pow'r less great than thine, Might cause alarm ; but, far as light extends, Of this great work to thee shall be the fame : When with their ships the long-hair'd Greeks shall take Their homeward voyage to their native land, 510 This wall shall by the waves be broken through, And sink, a shapeless ruin, in the sea : O'er the wide shore again thy sands shall spread, And all the boasted work of Greece o'erwhelm." Amid themselves such converse held the Gods. 515 The sun was set ; the Grecian work was done ; They slew, and shar'd, by tents, the ev'ning meal. Erom Lemnos' isle a num'rous fleet had come Freighted with wine ; and by Euneus sent, Whom fair Hypsipyle to Jason bore. 520 For Atreus' sons, apart from all the rest, Of wine, the son of Jason had despatch'd Book VII. HOMER'S ILIAD. 251 A thousand measures ; all the other Greeks Hasten'd to purchase, some with brass, and some With gleaming iron ; other some with hides, 525 Cattle, or slaves ; and joyous wax'd the feast. All night the long-hair'd Greeks their revels held, And so in Troy, the Trojans and Allies : But through the night his anger Jove express'd With awful thunderings ; pale they turn'd with fear : To earth the wine was from the goblets shed, 531 Nor dar'd they drink, until libations due Had first been pour'd to Saturn's mighty son. Then lay they down, and sought the boon of sleep. ARGUMENT. THE SECOND BATTLE, AND THE DISTRESS OF THE GREEK8. Jupiter assembles a council of the deities, and threatens them -with the pains of Tartarus, if they assist either side : Minerva only obtains of him that she may direct the Greeks by her counsels. The armies join battle ; Jupiter on Mount Ida weighs in his bal- ances the fates of both, and affrights the Greeks with his thunders and lightnings. Nestor alone continues in the field in great dan- ger ; Diomed relieves him ; whose exploits, and those of Hector, are excellently described. Juno endeavours to animate Neptune to the assistance of the Greeks, but in vain. The acts of Teucer, who is at length wounded by Hector, and carried off. Juno and Minerva prepare to aid the Grecians, but are restrained by Iria, sent from Jupiter. The night puts an end to the battle. Hector continues in the field, (the Greeks being driven to their fortifica- tions before the ships,) and gives orders to keep the watch all night in the camp, to prevent the enemy from re-embarking and escaping by flight. They kindle fires through all the field, and pass the night under arms. The time of seven-and-twenty days is employed from the opening of the poem to the end of this book. The scene hure (except of the celestial machines) lies in the field toward the sea-shore. Book VIII. HOMER'S ILIAD. 255 BOOK VIII. ]VTOW morn, in saffron robe, the earth o'erspread ; ■^ And Jove, the lightning's Lord, of all the Goda A council held upon the highest peak Of many-ridg'd Olympus ; he himself Address'd them ; they his speech attentive heard. 5 " Hear, all ye Gods, and all ye Goddesses, The words I speak, the promptings of my soul. Let none among you, male or female, dare To thwart my counsels : rather all concur, That so these matters I may soon conclude. 10 If, from the rest apart, one God I find Presuming or to Trojans or to Greeks To give his aid, with ignominious stripes Back to Olympus shall that God be driv'n ; ' Or to the gloom of Tartarus profound, 15 Far off, the lowest abyss beneath the earth, 256 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book VIII With, gates of iron, and with, floor of brass, Beneath the shades as far as earth from Heav'n, There will I hurl him, and ye all shall know In strength how greatly I surpass you all. 20 Make trial if ye will, that all may know. A golden cord let down from Heav'n, and all, Both Gods and Goddesses, your strength apply : Yet would ye fail to drag from Heav'n to earth, Strive as ye may, your mighty master, Jove ; 25 But if I choose to make my pow'r be known, The earth itself, and ocean, I could raise, And binding round Olympus' ridge the cord, Leave them suspended so in middle air : So far supreme my pow'r o'er Gods and men." 30 He said, and they, confounded by his words, In silence sat ; so sternly did he speak. At length the blue-ey'd Goddess, Pallas, said : " O Father, Son of Saturn, King of Kings, "Well do we know thy pow'r invincible ; 35 Yet deeply grieve we for the warlike Greeks, Condemn'd to hopeless ruin ; from the fight, Since such is thy command, we stand aloof; BooeVIIL HOMEE'S ILIAD. 257 But yet some saving counsel may we give, Lest in thine anger thou destroy them quite." 40 To whom the Cloud-compeller, smiling, thus : " Be of good cheer, my child; unwillingly I speak, yet will not thwart thee of thy wish." He said, and straight the brazen-footed steeds, Of swiftest flight, with manes of flowing gold, 45 He harness'd to his chariot ; all in gold Himself array'd, the golden lash he grasp'd, Of curious work ; and mounting on his car, Urg'd the fleet coursers ; nothing loth, they flew Midway betwixt the earth and starry heav'n. 50 To Ida's spring-abounding hill he came, And to the crest of Gargarus, wild nurse Of mountain beasts ; a sacred plot was there, "Whereon his incense-honour'd altar stood : There stay'd his steeds the Sire of Gods and men, 55 Loos'd from the car, and veil'd with clouds around. Then on the topmost ridge he sat, in pride Of conscious strength ; and looking down, survey'd The Trojan city, and the ships of Greece. 59 Meantime, the Greeks throughout their tents in haste vol. i. s 258 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book VIIL Despatch'd their meal, and arm'd them for the fight ; On tli' other side the Trojans donn'd their arms, In numbers fewer, but with stern resolve, By hard necessity constrain'd, to strive, For wives and children, in the stubborn fight. 65 The gates all open'd wide, forth pour'd the crowd • Of horse and foot ; and loud the clamour rose. "When in the midst they met, together rush'd Bucklers and lances, and the furious might Of mail-clad warriors ; bossy shield on shield 70 Clatter'd in conflict ; loud the clamour rose : Then rose too mingled shouts and groans of men Slaying and slain ; the earth ran red with blood. While yet 'twas morn, and wax'd the youthful day, Thick flew the shafts, and fast the people fell 75 On either side ; but when the sun had reach'd The middle Heav'n, th' Eternal Father hung His golden scales aloft, and plac'd in each The fatal death-lot : for the sons of Troy The one, the other for the brass-clad Greeks ; 80 Then held them by the midst ; down sank the lot Of Greece, down to the ground, while high aloft Book VIII. HOMER'S ILIAD. 259 Mounted the Trojan scale, and rose to Heav'n.* Then loud he bade the volleying thunder peal From Ida's heights ; and 'mid the Grecian ranks 85 He hurl'd his flashing lightning ; at the sight Amaz'd they stood, and pale with terror shook. Then not Idomeneus, nor Atreus' son, The mighty Agamemnon, kept their ground, Nor either Ajax, ministers of Mars ; 90 Gerenian Nestor, aged prop of Greece, Alone remain'd, and he against his will, His horse sore wounded by an arrow shot By godlike Paris, fair-hair'd Helen's Lord : Just on the crown, where close behind the head 95 First springs the mane, the deadliest spot of all, The arrow struck him ; madden'd with the pain He rear'd, then plunging forward, with the shaft Fix'd in his brain, and rolling in the dust, The other steeds in dire confusion threw ; 100 * See also Book xxii. 1. 252. Milton, in the corresponding passage at the close of the 4th Book of ' Paradise Lost,' reverses the sign, and represents the scale of the vanquished as " flying up " and " kicking the beam." " The Fiend look'd up, and knew His mounted scale aloft ; nor more, but fled Murm'ring, and -with him fled the shades of night" 260 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book VIII And while old JSTestor with his sword essay'd To cut the reins, and free the struggling horse, Amid the rout down came the flying steeds Of Hector, guided by no timid hand, By Hector's self; then had the old man paid 105 The forfeit of his life, but, good at need, The valiant Diomed his peril saw, And loudly shouting, on Ulysses call'd : " Ulysses sage, Laertes' godlike son, Why fliest thou, coward-like, amid the throng, 1 10 And in thy flight to the aim of hostile spears Thy back presenting ? stay, and here with me From this fierce warrior guard the good old man." He said ; but stout Ulysses heard him not, And to the ships pursued his hurried way. 115 But in the front, Tydides, though alone, Remain'd undaunted ; by old Nestor's car He stood, and thus the aged chief address'd : " Old man, these youthful warriors press thee sore, Thy vigour spent, and with the weight of years 120 Oppress'd ; and helpless too thy charioteer, Book VIII. HOMER'S ILIAD. 2G1 And slow thy horses ; mount my car, and prove How swift my steeds, or in pursuit or flight, From those of Tros descended,' scour the plain; My noble prize from great ^Eneas won. 125 Leave to th' attendants these ; while mine we launch Against the Trojan host, that Hector's self May know how strong my hand can hurl the spear." He said ; and Nestor his advice obey'd : The two attendants, valiant Sthenelus, 130 And good Eurymedon, his horses took, "While on Tydides' car they mounted both. The aged Nestor took the glitt'ring reins, And urg'd the horses ; Hector soon they met : As on he came, his spear Tydides threw, 135 Yet struck not Hector ; but his charioteer, Who held the reins, the brave Thebseus' son, Eniopeus, through the breast transfix'd, Beside the nipple ; from the car he fell, The startled horses swerving at the sound ; 110 And from his limbs the vital spirit fled. Deep, for his comrade slain, was Hector's grief ; Yet him, though griev'd, perforce he left to seek 262 HOIEE'S ILIAD. Book VIII A charioteer ; nor wanted long his steeds A guiding hand ; for Archeptolemus, 145 Brave son of Iphitus, he quickly found, And bade him mount his swiftly-flying car, And to his hands the glitt'ring reins transferr'd. Then fearful ruin had been wrought, and deeds Untold achiev'd, and like a flock of lambs, 150 The adverse hosts been coop'd beneath the walls, Had not the Sire of Gods and men beheld, And with an awful peal of thunder hurl'd His vivid lightning down ; the fiery bolt Before Tydides' chariot plough"d the ground. 155 Fierce flash'd the sulph'rous flame, and whirling round Beneath the yoke th' affrighted horses quailed. From Nestor's hand escap'd the glitt'ring reins, And, trembling, thus to Diomed he spoke : " Turn we to flight, Tydides ; see'st thou not, 160 That Jove from us his aiding hand withholds ? This day to Hector Saturn's son decrees The meed of vict'ry ; on some future day, If so he will, the triumph may be ours ; For man, how brave soe'er, cannot o'errule 165 Book VIII. HOMER'S ILIAD. 263 The will of Jove, so much the mightier he." "Whom answer'd thus the valiant Diomed : " Truly, old man, and wisely dost thou speak ; But this the bitter grief that wrings my soul : Some day, amid the councillors of Troy 170 Hector may say, ' Before my presence scar'd Tydides sought the shelter of the ships.' Thus when he boasts, gape earth, and hide my shame !" To whom Gerenian Nestor thus replied : " Great son of Tydeus, oh what words are these ! 175 Should Hector brand thee with a coward's name, No credence would he gain from Trojan men, Or Dardan, or from Trojan warriors' wives, Whose husbands in the dust thy hand hath laid." He said, and 'mid the general rout, to flight 180 He turn'd his horses ; on the flying crowd, "With shouts of triumph, Hector at their head, The men of Troy their murd'rous weapons show'r'd. Loud shouted Hector of the glancing helm : " Tydides, heretofore the warrior Greeks 185 Have held thee in much honour ; plac'd on high At banquets, and with lib'ral portions grac'd, 264 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book VIII. And flowing cups : but thou, from this day forth, Shalt he their scorn ! a woman's soul is thine ! Out on thee, frighten'd girl ! thou ne'er shalt scale i90 Our Trojan tow'rs, and see me basely fly; Nor in thy ships our women bear away : Ere such thy boast, my hand shall work thy doom." Thus he ; and greatly was Tydides mov'd To turn his horses, and confront his foe : 195 Thrice thus he doubted ; thrice, at Jove's command, From Ida's height the thunder peal'd, in sign Of vict'ry swaying to the Trojan side. Then to the Trojans Hector call'd aloud : " Trojans, and Lycians, and ye Dardans, fam'd 2C0 In close encounter, quit ye now like men ; Put forth your wonted valour ; for I know That in his secret counsels Jove designs Glory to me, disaster to the Greeks. Eools, in those wretched walls that put their trust, Scarce worthy notice, hopeless to withstand 206 My onset ; and the trench that they have dug, Our horses easily can overleap ; And when I reach the ships, be mindful ye, Book VIII. HOMER'S ILIAD. 265 To have at hand the fire, wherewith the ships 210 We may destroy, while they themselves shall fall An easy prey, bewilder' d by the smoke." He said, and thus with cheering words address'd His horses : " Xanthus, and, Podargus, thou, ^Ethon and Lampus, now repay the care 215 On you bestow'd by fair Andromache, Eetion's royal daughter ; bear in mind How she with ample store of provender Your mangers still supplied, before e'en I, Her husband, from her hands the wine-cup took. 220 Put forth your speed, that we may make our prize Of Nestor's shield, whose praise extends to Heav'n, Its handles, and itself, of solid gold ; And from the shoulders of Tydides strip His gorgeous breastplate, work of Vulcan's hand : These could we take, methinks this very night 226 "Would see the Greeks embarking on their ships." Such was his pray'r ; but Juno on her throne Trembled with rage, till great Olympus quak'd, And thus to Neptune, mighty God, she spoke : 230 " O thou of boundless might, Earth-shaking God, 266 HOMEE'S ILIAD. Book V1IL See'st thou immov'd tlie ruin of the Greeks ? Yet they in ^Egoe and in Helice, With grateful off 'rings rich thine altars crown ; Then give we them the vict'ry ; if we all 235 Who favour Greece, together should combine To put to flight the Trojans, and restrain All-seeing Jove, he might be left alone, On Ida's summit to digest his wrath." To whom, in anger, Neptune thus replied : 240 " O Juno, rash of speech, what words are these ! I dare not counsel that we all should join 'Gainst Saturn's son ; so much the stronger he." Such converse held they ; all the space meanwhile Within the trench, between the tow'r and ships, 245 Was closely throng'd with steeds and buckler'd men ; By noble Hector, brave as Mars, and led By Jove to vict'ry, coop'd in narrow space ; Who now had burnt with fire the Grecian ships, But Juno bade Atrides haste to rouse 250 Their fainting courage ; through the camp he pass'd ; On his broad hand a purple robe he bore, And stood upon Ulysses' lofty ship, Book VIII. HOIEE'S ILIAD. 267 The midmost, whence to shout to either side, Or to the tents of Ajax Telamon, 255 Or of Achilles, who at each extreme, Confiding in their strength, had moor'd their ships. Thence to the Greeks he shouted, loud and clear : " Shame on ye, Greeks, base cowards, brave alone In outward semblance ! where are now the vaunts 2G0 Which once (so highly of ourselves we deem'd) Ye made, vain-glorious braggarts as ye were, In Lemnos' isle, when, feasting on the flesh Of straight-horn'd oxen, and your flowing cups Crowning with ruddy wine, not one of you, 2G5 But for a hundred Trojans in the field, Or for two hundred, deem'd himself a match : Now quail ye all before a single man, Hector, who soon will wrap our ships in fire. O Father Jove ! what sov'reign e'er hast thou 270 So far deluded, of such glory robb'd ? Yet ne'er, on this disastrous voyage bent, Have I unheeded pass'd thine altar by ; The choicest off 'rings burning still on each, In hopes to raze the well-built walls of Troy. 275 268 HOMEE'S ILIAD. Book Via Yet to this pray'r at least thine ear incline ; Grant that this coast in safety we may leave, Nor be by Trojans utterly subdued." He said ; and Jove, with pity, saw his tears ; And, with a sign, his people's safety vouch'd. 2S0 He sent an eagle, noblest bird that flies, Who in his talons bore a wild deer's fawn : The fawn he dropp'd beside the holy shrine, "Where to the Lord of divination, Jove, The Greeks were wont their solemn rites to pay. 285 The sign from Heav'n they knew ; with courage fresh Assail'd the Trojans, and the fight renew'd. Then none of all the many Greeks might boast That he, before Tydides, drove his car Across the ditch, and mingled in the fight. 290 His was the hand that first a crested chief, The son of Phradmon, Agelaus, struck. He turn'd his car for flight ; but as he turn'd, The lance of Diomed, behind his neck, Between the shoulders, through his chest was driv'n ; Headlong he fell, and loud his armour rang. 290 Next to Tydides, Agamemnon came, Book VIII. HOMER'S ILIAD. 269 And Meneliius, Atreus' godlike sons ; Tli' Ajaces both, in dauntless courage cloth'd ; Idomeneus, Avitli whom Meriones, 300 His faithful comrade, terrible as Mars ; Eurypylus, Eusemon's noble son ; The ninth was Teucer, who, with bended bow, Behind the shield of Ajax Telamon Took shelter ; Ajax o'er him held his shield ; 305 Thence look'd he round, and aim'd amid the crowd ; And as he saw each Trojan, wounded, fall, Struck by his shafts, to Ajax close he press'd, As to its mother's shelt'ring arms a child, Conceal'd and safe beneath the ample targe. 310 Say then, who first of all the Trojans fell By Teucer's arrows slain % Orsilochus, And Ophelestes, Dsetor, Ormenus, And godlike Lycophontes, Chromius, And Amopaon, Polyoemon's son, 315 And valiant Melanippus : all of these, Each after other, Teucer laid in dust. Him Agamemnon, with his well-strung bow Thinning the Trojan ranks, with joy beheld, 270 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book Via And, standing at his side, address'd him thus : 320 " Teucer, good comrade, son of Telamon, Shoot ever thus, if thou wouldst be the light And glory of the Greeks, and of thy sire, Who nursed thine infancy, and in his house Maintain'd, though bastard ; him, though distant far, To highest fame let thine achievements raise. 326 This too I say, and will make good my word : If by the grace of segis-bearing Jove, And Pallas, Ilium's well-built walls we raze, A gift of honour, second but to mine, 330 I in thy hands will place ; a tripod bright, Or, with their car and harness, two brave steeds, Or a fair woman who thy bed may share." To whom in answer valiant Teucer thus : " Most mighty son of Atreus, why excite 335 Who lacks not zeal ? To th' utmost of my pow'r Since first we drove the Trojans back, I watch, U nceasing, every chance to ply my shafts. Eight barbed arrows have I shot e'en now, And in a warrior each has found its mark ; 340 That savage hound alone defeats my aim." Book VIII. HOMER'S ILIAD. 271 At Hector, as he spoke, another shaft He shot, ambitious of so great a prize : He miss'd his aim ; but Priam's noble son Gorgythion, through the breast his arrow struck, 34." "Whom from iEsyme brought, a wedded bride Of heavenly beauty, Castianeira bore. Down sank his head, as in a garden sinks A ripen'd poppy charg'd with vernal rains ; So sank his head beneath his helmet's weight. 350 At Hector yet another arrow shot Teucer, ambitious of so great a prize ; Yet this too miss'd, by Phoebus turn'd aside ; But Archeptolemus, the charioteer Of Hector, onward hurrying, through the breast 355 It struck, beside the nipple ; from the car He fell ; aside the startled horses swerv'd ; And as he fell the vital spirit fled. Deep, for his comrade slain, was Hector's grief; Yet him, though griev'd at heart, perforce he left, And to Cebriones, his brother, call'd, 361 Then near at hand, the horses' reins to take ; He heard, and straight obey'd ; then Hector leap'd 272 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book VIII Down from his glitt'ring chariot to the ground, His fearful war-cry shouting ; in his hand 365 A pond'rous stone he carried ; and, intent To strike him down, at Teucer straight he rusli'd. He from his quiver chose a shaft in haste, And fitted to the cord ; but as he drew The sinew, Hector of the glancing helm 370 HuiTd the huge mass of rock, which Teucer struck Near to the shoulder, where the collar-hone Joins neck and breast, the spot most opportune, And broke the tendon ; paralys'd, his arm Dropp'd helpless by his side ; upon Ins knees 375 He fell, and from his hands let fall the bow. Not careless Ajax saw his brother's fall, But o'er him spread in haste his cov'ring shield. Two faithful friends, Mecisteus, Echius' son, And brave Alastor, from the press withdrew, 380 And bore him, deeply groaning, to the ships. Then Jove again the Trojan courage fir'd, And backward to the ditch they forc'd the Greeks. Proud of his prowess, Hector led them on ; A.nd as a hound that, fleet of foot, o'ertakes 385 Book VIII. HOMER'S ILIAD. 273 Or boar or lion, object of liis chase, Springs from behind, and fastens on his flank, Yet careful watches, lest he turn to bay : So Hector press'd upon the long-hair' d Greeks, Slaying the hindmost ; they in terror fled. 390 But, pass'd at length the ditch and palisade, With loss of many by the Trojans slain, Before the ships they rallied from their flight, And one to other call'd : and one and all With hands uplifted, pray'd to all the Gods ; 395 While Hector, here and there, on ev'ry side His flying coursers wheel'd, with eyes that flash'd Awful as Gorgon's, or as blood-stain'd Mars. Juno, the white-arm'd Queen, with pity mov'd, To Pallas thus her winged words address'd : -100 " O Heav'n, brave child of asgis-bearing Jove, Can we, ev'n now, in this their sorest need, Refuse the Greeks our aid, by one subdued, One single man, of pride unbearable, Hector, the son of Priam, who e'en now, 405 Hath caus'd them endless grief?" To whom again The blue-ey'd Goddess, Pallas, thus replied : VOL. I. T 274 HOMEK'S ILIAD. Book vhl " I too would fain behold him robb'd of life, In his own country slain by Grecian hands ; But that my sire, by ill advice misled, 410 Rages in wrath, still thwarting all my plans ; Forgetting now how oft his son I sav'd, Sore wearied with the toils Eurystheus gave. Oft would his tears ascend to Heav'n, and oft From Heav'n would Jove despatch me to his aid ; But if I then had known what now I know, 416 When to the narrow gates of Pluto's realm He sent him forth to bring from Erebus Its guardian dog, he never had return'd In safety from the marge of Styx profound. 420 He holds me now in hatred, and his ear To Thetis lends, who kiss'd his knees, and touch'd His beard, and pray'd him to avenge her son Achilles ; yet the time shall come when I Shall be once more his own dear blue-ey'd Maid. 425 But haste thee now, prepare for us thy car, While to the house of tegis-bearing Jove I go, and don my armour for the fight,"; To prove if Hector of the glancing helm, Book VIII. HOMER'S ILIAD. 275 The sou of Priam, will unmov'd behold i30 Us two advancing o'er the pass of war ; Or if the flesh of Trojans, slain by Greeks, Shall sate the maw of rav'ning dogs and birds." She said : the white-arm'd Queen her word obey'd. Juno, great Goddess, royal Saturn's child, 435 The horses brought, with golden frontlets crown'd ; While Pallas, child of aegis-bearing Jove, Within her father's threshold dropp'd her veil Of airy texture, work of her own hands ; The cuirass donn'd of cloud-compelling Jove, 440 And stood accoutred for the bloody fray. The fiery car she mounted ; in her hand A spear she bore, long, weighty, tough ; wherewith The mighty daughter of a mighty sire Sweeps down the ranks of those her wrath pursues. Then Jnno sharply touch'd the flying steeds ; 446 Forthwith spontaneous opening, grated harsh The heavenly portals, guarded by the Hours, Who Heav'n and high Olympus have in charge, To roll aside or close the veil of cloud ; 450 Through these th' excited horses held their way. 276 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book VIII. From Ida's heights the son of Saturn saw, And, fill'd with wrath, the keav'nly messenger, The golden-winged Iris, thus bespoke : " Haste thee, swift Iris; turn them back, and warn That farther they advance not : 'tis not meet 456 That they and I in war should be oppos'd. This too I say, and will make good my words : Their flying horses I will lame ; themselves Dash from their car, and break their chariot-wheels ; And ten revolving years heal not the wound 461 Where strikes my lightning ; so shall Pallas learn What 'tis against her father to contend. Juno less moves my wonder and my wrath ; Whate'er I plan, 'tis still her wont to thwart." 465 Thus he : from Ida to Olympus' height The storm-swift Iris on her errand sped. At many-ridg'd Olympus' outer gate She met the Goddesses, and stay'd their course, And thus convey'd the sov'reign will of Jove : 470 " Whither away ? what madness fills your breasts ? To give the Greeks your succour, Jove forbids ; And thus he threatens, and will make it good : Book VIII. HOMEiJ'S ILIAD. 277 Your flying horses he will lame ; yourselves Dash from the ear, and break your chariot- wheels ; And ten revolving years heal not the wounds 476 His lightning makes : so, Pallas, shalt thou learn What 'tis against thy father to contend. Juno less moves his wonder and his wrath ; Whate'er he plans, 'tis still her wont to thwart ; 480 But over-bold and void of shame art thou, If against Jove thou dare to lift thy spear." Thus as she spoke, swift Iris disappear'd. Then Juno thus to Pallas spoke : " E"o more, Daughter of Eegis-bearing Jove, can we 485 For mortal men his sov'reign will resist ; Live they or die, as each man's fate may be ; While he, 'twixt Greeks and Trojans, as 'tis meet, His own designs accomplishing, decides." She said, and backward turn'd her horses' heads. 400 The horses from the car the Hours unyok'd, And safely tether'cl in the heav'nly stalls ; The car they rear'd against the inner wall, That brightly polish'd shone ; the Goddesses Themselves meanwhile, amid th' Immortals all, 405 278 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book Via With sorrowing hearts on golden seats reclin'd. Ere long, on swiftly-rolling chariot borne, Jove to Olympus, to th' abode of Gods, From Ida's height return'd : th' earth-shaking God, Neptune, unyok'd his steeds ; and on the stand 500 Secur'd the car, and spread the cov'ring o'er. Then on his golden throne all-seeing Jove Sat down ; beneath his feet Olympus shook. Juno and Pallas only sat aloof; No word they utter'd, no enquiry made. 505 Jove knew their thoughts, and thus address'd them both: " Pallas and Juno, wherefore sit ye thus In angry silence ? In the glorious fight No lengthen'd toil have ye sustain'd, to slay The Trojans, whom your deadly hate pursues. 510 Not all the Gods that on Olympus dwell Could turn me from my purpose, such my might, And such the pow'r of my resistless hand ; But ye were struck with terror ere ye saw The battle-field, and fearful deeds of war. 515 But this I say, and bear it in your minds, Had I my lightning launch'd, and from your car Book VIII. HOMEK'S ILIAD. 279 Had Imrl'd ye down, ye ne'er had reach'd again Olympus' height, tli' immortal Gods' abode." So spoke the God ; but, seated side by side, 520 Juno and Pallas glances interchang'd Of ill portent for Troy ; Pallas indeed Sat silent, and, though inly wroth with Jove, Yet answer'd not a word ; but Juno's breast Could not contain her rage, and thus she spoke : 525 " What words, dread son of Saturn, dost thou speak ? Well do we know thy pow'r invincible, Yet deeply grieve we for the warlike Greeks, Condemn'd to hopeless ruin : from the light, Since such is thy command, we stand aloof; 530 But yet some saving counsel may we give, Lest in thine anger thou destroy them quite." To whom the Cloud-compeller thus replied : " Yet greater slaughter, stag-ey'd Queen of Heav'n, To-morrow shalt thou see, if so thou list, 535 Wrought on the warrior Greeks by Saturn's son ; For Hector's proud career shall not be check'd Until the wrath of Peleus' godlike son Beside the ships be kindled, in the day 2S0 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book VIII. When round Patroclus' corpse, in narrow space, 540 E'en by the vessels' sterns, the war shall rage. Such is the voice of destiny : for thee, I reck not of thy wrath ; nor should I care Though thou wert thrust beneath the lowest deep Of earth and ocean, where Iapetus 545 And Saturn lie, uncheer'd by ray of sun Or breath of air, in Tartarus profound. Though there thou wert to banishment consign'd, I should not heed, but thy reproaches hear Unmov'd ; for viler thing is none than thou." 550 He said, but white-arm'd Juno answer'd not. The sun, now sunk beneath the ocean wave, Drew o'er the teeming earth the veil of night. The Trojans saw, reluctant, day's decline ; But on the Greeks thrice welcome, thrice invoked "With earnest prayers, the shades of darkness fell.556 The noble Hector then to council call'd The Trojan leaders ; from the ships apart He led them, by the eddying river's side, To a clear space of ground, from corpses free. 560 They from their cars dismounting, to the words Book VIII. HOMER'S ILIAD. 281 Of godlike Hector listen'd : in his hand His massive spear he held, twelve cubits long, Whose glitt'ring point flash'd bright, with hoop of gold Encircled round ; on this he leant, and said, 565 "Hear me, ye Trojans, Dardans, and Allies; I hop'd that to the breezy heights of Troy We might ere now in triumph have return'd, The Grecian ships and all the Greeks destroy'd : But night hath' come too soon, and sav'd awhile 570 The Grecian army and their stranded ships. Then yield we to the night ; prepare the meal ; Unyoke your horses, and before them place Their needful forage ; from the city bring Oxen and sheep ; the luscious wine provide ; 575 Bring bread from out our houses ; and collect Good store of fuel, that the livelong night, E'en till the dawn of day, may broadly blaze Our num'rous watchfires, and illume the Heav'ns; Lest, e'en by night, the long-hair'd Greeks should seek O'er the broad bosom of the sea to fly, 581 That so not unassail'd they may embark, Nor undisturb'd ; but haply some may bear, 282 HOMEE'S ILIAD. Book VIII. E'en to their homes, the mem'iy of a wound Receiv'd from spear or arrow, as on board 585 They leap'd in haste ; and others too may fear To tempt with hostile arms the pow'r of Troy. Then let the sacred heralds' voice proclaim Throughout the city, that the stripling youths And hoary-headed sires allot themselves 590 In sev'ral watches to the Heav'n-built tow'rs. Charge too the women, in their houses each, To kindle blazing fires ; let careful watch Be set, lest, in the absence of the men, The town by secret ambush be surpris'd. 595 Such, valiant Trojans, is th' advice I give ; And what to-night your wisdom shall approve Will I, at morn, before the Trojans speak. Hopeful, to Jove I pray, and all the Gods, To chase from hence these fate-inflicted hounds, 600 By fate sent hither on their dark-ribb'd ships. Now keep we through the night our watchful guard ; And with the early dawn, equipp'd in arms, Upon their fleet our angry battle pour. Then shall I know if Tydeus' valiant son 605 Book VIII. UOMEE'S ILIAD. 283 Back from the ships shall drive me to the walls, Or I, triumphant, bear his bloody spoils : To-morrow morn his courage will decide, If he indeed my onset will await. But ere to-morrow's sun be high in Heav'n, 610 He, 'mid the foremost, if I augur right, "Wounded and bleeding in the dust shall lie, And many a comrade round him. "Would to Heav'n I were as sure to be from age and death Exempt, and held in honour as a God, 615 Phoebus, or Pallas, as I am assur'd The coming day is fraught with ill to Greece." Thus Hector spoke ; the Trojans shouted loud : Then from the yoke the sweating steeds they loos'd, And tether'd each beside their sev'ral cars : 620 Next from the city speedily they brought Oxen and sheep ; the luscious wine procur'd ; Brought bread from out their houses, and good store Of fuel gather'd ; wafted from the plain, The winds to Heav'n the sav'ry odours bore. 625 Full of proud hopes, upon the pass of war, All night they camp'd ; and frequent blaz'd their fires. 284 HOIEE'S ILIAD. Book VII I. As when in Heav'n, around the glitt'ring moon The stars shine "bright amid the breathless air ; And ev'ry crag, and ev'ry jutting peak 630 Stands boldly forth, and ev'ry forest glade ; Ev'n to the gates of Heav'n is open'd wide The boundless sky ; shines each particular star Distinct ; joy fills the gazing shepherd's heart. So bright, so thickly scatter'd o'er the plain, 635 Before the walls of Troy, between the ships And Xanthus' stream, the Trojan watchfires blaz'd. A thousand fires burnt brightly ; and round each Sat fifty warriors in the ruddy glare ; Champing the provender before them laid, 640 Barley and rye, the tether'd horses stood Beside the cars, and waited for the morn. 642 ARGUMENT. THE EMBASSY TO ACHILLES. Agamemnon, after the last day's defeat, proposes to the Greeks to quit the siege, and return to their country. Diomed opposes this, and Nestor seconds him, praising his wisdom and resolution. He orders the guard to be strengthened, and a council summoned to deliberate what measures were to be followed in this emer- gency. Agamemnon pursues this advice, and Nestor farther pre- vails upon him to send ambassadors to Achilles in order to move him to a reconciliation. Ulysses and Ajax are make choice of, who are accompanied by old Phoenix. They make, each of them, very moving and pressing speeches, but are rejected with rough- ness by Achilles, who notwithstanding retains Phoenix in his tent. The ambassadors return unsuccessfully to the camp, and the troops betake themselves to sleep. This book, and the next following, take up the space of one night, which is the twenty-seventh from the beginning of the poem. The scene lies on the sea-shore, the station of the Grecian ships. Book IX. HOMEK'S ILIAD. 287 BOOK IX. rpHUS kept their watch the Trojans ; but the Greeks Dire Panic held, companion of chill Fear, Their bravest struck with grief unbearable. As when two stormy winds ruffle the sea, Boreas and Zephyr, from the hills of Thrace 5 "With sudden gust descending ; the dark waves Hear high their angry crests, and toss on shore Masses of tangled weed ; such stormy grief The breast of ev'ry Grecian warrior rent. Atrides, heart-struck, wander'd to and fro, 10 And to the clear-voic'd heralds gave command To call, but not with proclamation loud, Each sev'ral man to council ; he himself Spar'd not his labour, mixing with the chiefs. Sadly they sat in council; Atreus' son, 15 Weeping, arose ; as some dark-water'd fount Pours o'er a craggy steep its gloomy stream ; 288 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book IX. Then with deep groans th' assembled Greeks address'd: " O friends ! the chiefs and councillors of Greece, Grievous, and all unlook'd for, is the blow 20 "Which Jove hath dealt me ; by his promise led I hop'd to raze the strong-built walls of Troy, And home return in safety ; but it seems He falsifies his word, and bids me now Return to Argos, frustrate of my hope, 25 Diskonour'd, and with grievous loss of men. Such now appears th' o'er-ruling sov'reign will Of Saturn's son, who oft hath sunk the heads Of many a lofty city in the dust, And yet will sink; for mighty is his hand. 30 Hear then my counsel ; let us all agree Home to direct our course : since here in vain We strive to take the well-built walls of Troy." The monarch spoke ; they all in silence heard : In speechless sorrow long they sat : at length 35 Rose valiant Diomed, and thus he spoke : " Atrides, I thy folly must confront, As is my right, in council : thou, O King ! Be not offended : once, among the Greeks Book IX. HOMER'S ILIAD. 289 Thou lieldest light my prowess, with the name 40 Of coward branding me; how justly so Is known to all the Greeks, both young and old. On thee the deep- designing Saturn's son In diff'ring measure hath his gifts bestow'd : A throne he gives thee, higher far than all ; 45 But valour, noblest boon of Heav'n, denies. How canst thou hope the sons of Greece shall prove Such heartless dastards as thy words suppose ? If homeward to return thy mind be fix'd, Depart ; the way is open, and the ships, 50 Which from Mycenee follow'd thee in crowds, Are close at hand, and ready to be launch'd. Yet will the other long-hair'd Greeks remain Till Priam's city fall : nay, though the rest Betake them to their ships, and sail for home, 55 Yet I and Sthenelus, we two, will fight Till Troy be ours ; for Heav'n is on our side." Thus he ; the sons of Greece, with loud applause, The speech of valiant Diomed confirm'd. Then aged Nestor rose, and thus began : . CO " Tydides, eminent thou art in war ; VOL. T. ° 290 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book IX. And ill the council thy compeers in age Must yield to thee ; thy present words, no Greek Can censure, or gainsay ; and yet the end Thou hast not reach'd, and object of debate. 05 But thou art young, and for thine age mightst be My latest born ; yet dost thou to the Kings Sage counsel give, and well in season speak. But now will I, that am thine elder far, Go fully through the whole ; and none my words 70 May disregard, not ev'n Atrides' self. Outcast from kindred, law, and hearth is he Whose soul delights in fierce internal strife. But yield we now to th' influence of night : Prepare the meal ; and let the sev'ral guards 75 Be posted by the ditch, without the wall. This duty on the younger men I lay : Then, Agamemnon, thou thy part perform ; For thou art King supreme ; the Elders all, As meet and seemly, to the feast invite : 80 Thy tents are full of wine, which Grecian ships O'er the wide sea bring day by day from Thi ace ; BookIX. HOMER'S ILIAD. 291 Nor lack'st tliou aught thy guests to entertain, And many own thy sway ; when all are met, His counsel take, who gives the best advice ; S3 Great need we have of counsel wise and good, When close beside our ships the hostile fires Are burning : who can this unmov'd behold ? This night our ruin or our safety sees." He said ; and they, assenting, heard his speech. 90 Forth with their followers went th' appointed guards, The princely Thrasymedes, Nestor's son, Ascalaphus, and bold Ialmenus, Two valiant sons of Mars ; Meriones, And Aphareus, and brave Dei'pyrus, 95 And godlike Lycomedes, Creon's son. Sev'n were the leaders ; and with each went forth A hundred gallant youths, with lances arm'd. Between the ditch and wall they took their post ; There lit their fires, and there the meal prepar'd. 100 Then for th' assembled Elders in his tent An ample banquet Agamemnon spread ; They on the viands, set before them, fell : The rage of thirst and hunger satisfied, 292 HOMEE'S ILIAD. Book IX The aged Nestor first his mind disclos'cl ; 105 He who, before, the sagest counsel gave, Now thus with prudent words began, and said : "Most mighty Agamemnon, King of men, "With thee, Atrides, my discourse shall end, With thee begin : o'er many nations thou 110 Hold'st sov'reign sway ; since Jove to thee hath giv'n The sceptre, and the high prerogative, To be thy people's judge and counsellor, 'Tis thine to speak the word, 'tis thine to hear And to determine, when some other chief 115 Suggestions offers in the gen'ral cause : What counsel shall prevail, depends on thee : Yet will I say what seems to me the best. Sounder opinion none can hold than this, Which I maintain, and ever have maiutain'd, 120 Ev'n from the day when thou, great King, didst bear The fair Briseis from Achilles' tent Despite his anger — not by my advice : I fain would have dissuaded thee, but thou, Following the dictates of thy wrathful pride, 125 Didst to our bravest wrong, dishon'riiu? him Book IX. HOMEE'S ILIAD. 293 Whom ev'n tli' Immortals honour'd ; for his prize Thou took'st and still retain'st ; but let us now Consider, if ev'n yet, with costly gifts And soothing words, we may his wrath appease." 130 To whom the monarch Agamemnon thus : " Father, too truly thou recall'st my fault : I err'd, nor will deny it ; as a host Is he whom Jove in honour holds, as now Achilles hon'ring, he confounds the Greeks. 135 But if I err'd, by evil impulse led, Fain would I now conciliate him, and pay An ample penalty ; before you all I pledge myself rich presents to bestow. Sev'n tripods will I give, untouch'd by fire ; 140 Of gold, ten talents, twenty caldrons bright, Twelve pow'rful horses, on the course renown'd, Who by their speed have many prizes won. Not empty-handed could that man be deem'd, Nor poor in gold, who but so much possess'd 145 As by those horses has for me been won. Sev'n women too, well skill'd in household cares, Lesbians, whom I selected for myself, 204 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book IX. That day lie captur'd Lesbos' goodly isle, In beauty far surpassing all their sex : 150 These will I give ; and with them will I send The fair Briseis, her whom from his tent I bore away ; and add a solemn oath, I ne'er approach'd her bed, nor held with her Such intercourse as man with woman holds. 155 All these shall now be his : but if the Gods Shall grant us Priam's city to destroy, Of gold and brass, when we divide the spoil, With countless heaps he shall a vessel freight, And twenty captives he himself shall choose, 160 All only less than Argive Helen fair. And if it be our fate to see ao-ain The teeming soil of Argos, he shall be My son by marriage ; and in honour held As is Orestes, who, my only son, 165 Is rear'd at home in luxury and ease. Three daughters fair I have, Chrysothemis, Iphianassa, and Laodice ; Of these, whiche'er he will, to Peleus' house, No portion ask'd for, he shall take to wife ; 170 BookIX. HOMER'S ILIAD. 295 And with her will I add such wedding: gifts, DO " As never man before to daughter gave. Sev'n prosp'rous towns besides; Cardamyle, And Enope, and Ira's grassy plains ; And Pherae, and Antheia's pastures deep, 175 ^Epeia fair, and vine-clad Pedasus; All by the sea, by sandy Pylos' bounds. The dwellers there in flocks and herds are rich, And, as a God, shall honour him with gifts, And to his sceptre ample tribute pay. 180 This will I do, so he his wrath remit : Then let him yield (Pluto alone remains Unbending and inexorable ; and thence Of all the Gods is most abhorr'd of men), To- me submitting, as in royal pow'r 185 Superior far, and more advane'd in age." To whom Gerenian Kestor thus replied : " Most mighty Agamemnon, King of men, Atrides, not unworthy are the gifts, Which to Achilles thou design'st to send : 190 Then to the tent of Peleus' son in haste Let us our chosen messengers despatch : 296 HOMEE'S ILIAD. Book IX. Whom I shall choose, let them consent to go. Then first of all let Phoenix lead the way, Belov'd of Jove ; the mighty Ajax next : 195 With them, Ulysses sage; and let them take, Of heralds, llodius and Eurybates. Bring now the hallowing water for our hands ; And bid be silent, while to Saturn's son, That he have mercy, we address our pray'r." 200 He said, and well his counsel pleas'd them all ; The heralds pour'd the water on their hands ; The youths, attending, crown'd the bowls with wine, And in due order serv'd the cups to all. Then, their libations made, when each with wine 205 Had satisfied his soul, from out the tent Of Agamemnon, Atreus' son, they pass'd; And many a caution aged Nestor gave, With rapid glance to each, Ulysses chief. How best to soften Peleus' matchless son. 210 Beside the many-dashing ocean's shore They mov'd along ; and many a pray'r address'd To Neptune, Ocean's Earth-surrounding God, That he to gentle counsels would incline Book IX. HOMER'S ILIAD. 297 The haughty soul of great iEacides. 215 When to the ships and tents they came, where lay The warlike Myrmidons, their chief they found His spirit soothing with a sweet-ton'd lyre, Of curious work, with silver band adorn'd ; Part of the spoil he took, when he destroy'd 220 Eetion's wealthy town ; on this he play'd, Soothing his soul, and sang of warriors' deeds. Before the chief, in silence and alone Patroclus sat, upon Achilles fix'd His eyes, awaiting till the song should cease. 225 The envoys forward stepp'd, Ulysses first, And stood before him ; from his couch, amaz'd, And holding still his lyre, Achilles sprang, Leaving the seat whereon they found him plac'd ; And at their entrance rose Patroclus too : 230 Waving his hand, Achilles, swift of foot, Address'dthem: ""Welcome, friends! as friends ye come: Some great occasion surely to my tent Hath brought the men who are, of all the Greeks, Despite my anger, dearest to my heart." 235 Thus as he spoke, he led them in, and plac'd 298 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book IX. On couches spread with purple carpets o'er, Then thus adclress'd Patroclus at his side : " Son of Mencetius, set upon the hoard A larger bowl, and stronger mix the wine, 210 And serve a cup to each : beneath my roof This night my dearest friends I entertain." He said ; Patroclus his commands obey'd ; And in the fire-light plac'd an ample tray, And on it laid of goat's flesh and of sheep's 2-15 A saddle each ; and with them, rich in fat, A chine of well-fed hog ; Automedon Held fast, while great Achilles carv'd the joints. The meat, prepar'd, he fix'd upon the spits : Patroclus kindled then a blazing fire ; 250 And when the fire burnt hotly, and the flame Subsided, spread the glowing embers out, And hung the spits above ; then sprinkled o'er The meat with salt, and lifted from the stand. The viands cook'd and plac'd upon the board, 255 From baskets fair Patroclus portion'd out The bread to each ; the meat Achilles shar'd. Facing the sage Ulysses, sat the host BookIX. HOMER'S ILIAD. 299 On th' other side the tent ; and bade his friend, Patroclus, give the Gods their honours due : 260 He in the tire the wonted off 'rings burnt : They on the viands set before them fell. The rage of thirst and hunger satisfied, Ajax to Phoenix sign'd : Ulysses saw The sign, and rising, fill'd a cup with wine, 2G5 And pledg'd Achilles thus : " To thee I drink, Achilles ! nobly is thy table spread, As heretofore in Agamemnon's tent, So now in thine ; abundant is the feast : But not the pleasures of the banquet now 270 We have in hand : impending o'er our arms Grave cause of fear, illustrious chief, we see ; Grave doubts, to save, or see destroy'd our ships, If thou, great warrior, put not forth thy might. For close beside the ships and wall are camp'd 275 The haughty Trojans and renown' d allies : Their watch-fires frequent burn throughout the camp; And loud their boast that nought shall stav their hands, Until our dark-ribb'd ships be made their prey. Jove too for them, with fav'ring augury 2S0 300 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book IX Sends forth his lightning ; boastful of his strength, And firmly trusting in the aid of Jove, Hector, resistless, rages ; nought he fears Or God or man, with martial fury fir'd. He prays, impatient, for th' approach of morn ; 235 Then, breaking through the lofty sterns, resolv'd To the devouring flames to give the ships, And slay the crews, bewilder'd in the smoke. And much my mind misgives me, lest the Gods His threats fulfil, and we be fated here 290 To perish, far from Argos' grassy plains. Up then ! if in their last extremity Thy spirit inclines, though late, to save the Greeks Sore press'd by Trojan arms : lest thou thyself Hereafter feel remorse ; the evil done 295 Is past all cure ; then thou reflect betimes How from the Greeks to ward the day of doom. Dear friend, remember now thy father's words, The aged Peleus, when to Atreus' son He sent thee forth from Phthia, how he said, 300 ' My son, the boon of strength, if so they will, Juno or Pallas have the pow'r to give ; Book IX. HOMER'S ILIAD. 301 But thou thyself thy haughty spirit must curb, For better far is gentle courtesy : And cease from angry strife, that so the Greeks 305 The more may honour thee, both young and old.' Such were the words thine aged father spoke, "Which thou hast now forgotten ; yet, e'en now, Pause for awhile, and let thine anger cool ; And noble gifts, so thou thy wrath remit, 310 From Agamemnon shalt thou bear away. Listen to me, while I recount the gifts Which in his tent he pledg'd him to bestow. Sevn tripods promis'd he, untouch'd by fire, Of gold, ten talents, twenty caldrons bright, 315 Twelve pow'rful horses, in the course renown'd, Who by their speed have many prizes won. Not empty-handed could that man be deem'd, Nor poor in gold, who but so much possess'd As by those horses has for him been won. 320 Sev'n women too, well skill'd in household cares, Lesbians, whom he selected for himself, That day thou captnr'dst Lesbos' goodly isle, In beauty far surpassing all their sex. 302 HOMER'S ILIAD. BookIX These will lie give ; and with them will he send 325 The fair Briseis, her whom from thy tent He bore away ; and add a solemn oath, He ne'er approach'd her bed, nor held with her Snch intercourse as man with woman holds. All these shall now be thine : bnt if the Gods 330 Shall grant ns Priam's city to destroy, Of gold and brass, when we divide the spoil, With countless heaps a vessel shalt thou freight, And twenty captives thou thyself shalt choose, All only less than Argive Helen fair. 335 And if it be our fate to see again The teeming soil of Argos, thou mayst be His son by marriage, and in honour held As is Orestes, who, his only son, Is rear'd at home in luxury and ease. 340 Three daughters fair are his, Chrysothemis, Iphianassa, and Laodice ; Of these whiche'er thou wilt, to Peleus' house, No portion ask'd for, thou shalt take to wife ; And with her will he add such wedding gifts, 345 As never man before to daughter gave. Book IX. HOIEE'S ILIAD. 303 Sev'n prosp'rous towns besides ; Cardamyle, And Enope, and Ira's grassy plains, And Pkeme, and Antheia's pastures deep, ./Epeia fair, and vine-clad Pedasus ; 350 All by the sea, by sandy Pylos' bounds. The dwellers there in flocks and herds are rich, And, as a God, will honour thee with gifts, And to thy sceptre ample tribute pay. All these he gives, so thon thy wrath remit. 355 But if thou hold Atrides in such hate, Him and his gifts, yet let thy pity rest On all the other Greeks, thus sore bested ; By whom thou shalt be honour'd as a God : For great the triumph that thou now mayst gain ; E'en Hector's self is now within thy reach ; 301 For he is near at hand ; and in his pride And martial fury deems that none, of all Our ships contain, can rival him in arms." "Whom answer'd thus Achilles, swift of foot : 365 " Heav'n-born Ulysses, sage in council, son Of great Laertes, I must frankly speak My mind at once, my fix'd resolve declare : 304 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book IX. Tliat from henceforth I may not by the Greeks, By this man and by that, be importun'd. 370 Him as the gates of hell my soul abhors, Whose outward words his secret thoughts belie. Hear then what seems to me the wisest course. On me- nor Agamemnon, Atreus' son, Nor others shall prevail, since nought is gain'd 375 By toil unceasing in the battle field. Who nobly fight, but share with those who skulk ; Like honours gain the coward and the brave ; Alike the idlers and the active die : And nought it profits me, though day by day 380 In constant toil I set my life at stake ; But as a bird, though ill she fare herself, Brings to her callow brood the food she takes, So I through many a sleepless night have lain, And many a bloody day have labour'd through, 3S5 Engag'd in battle on your wives' behalf. Twelve cities have I taken with my ships ; Eleven more by land, on Trojan soil : From all of these abundant stores of wealth I took, and all to Agamemnon gave ; 390 Book IX. HOMER'S ILIAD. 305 He, safe beside his ships, my spoils receiv'd, A few divided, hut the most retain'd. To other chiefs and Kings he meted out Their sev'ral portions, and they hold them still ; From me, from me alone of all the Greeks, 395 He bore away, and keeps my cherish'd wife ; Well ! let him keep her, solace of his bed ! But say then, why do Greeks with Trojans fight ? Why hath Atrides brought this mighty host To Troy, if not in fair-hair'd Helen's cause ? 100 Of mortals are there none that love their wives, Save Atreus' sons alone ? or do not all, "Who boast the praise of sense and virtue, love And cherish each his own ? as her I lov'd 404 E'en from my soul, though captive of my spear. ISTow, since he once hath robb'd me, and deceiv'd, Let him not seek my aid ; I know him now, And am not to be won ; let him devise, With thee, Ulysses, and the other Kings, How best from hostile fires to save his ships. 410 He hath completed many mighty works Without my aid ; hath built a lofty wall, VOL. i. v 306 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book IX. And dug a trench around it, wide and deep, And in the trench' hath fix'd a palisade ; Nor so the warrior-slayer Hector's might 415 Can keep in check ; while I was in the field, Not far without the walls would Hector range His line of battle, nor beyond the Oak And Scsean gates would venture ; there indeed He once presum'd to meet me, hand to hand, 420 And from my onset narrowly escap'd. But as with Hector now no more I fight, To-morrow morn, my off 'rings made to Jove, And all the Gods, and freighted well my ships, And launch'd upon the main, thyself shall see, 425 If that thou care to see, my vessels spread O'er the broad bosom of the Hellespont, My lusty crews plying the vig'rous oar ; And if th' Earth-shaker send a fav'ring breeze, Three days will bear us home to Phthia's shore. 430 There did I leave abundant store of wealth, When hitherward I took my luckless way ; Thither from hence I bear, of ruddy gold, And brass, and women fair, and iron hoar Book IX. HOMER'S ILIAD. 307 The share assign'd me ; but my chiefest prize 435 The monarch Agamemnon, Atreus' son, Himself who gave, with insult takes away. To him then speak aloud the words I send, That all may know his crimes, if yet he hope Some other Greek by treach'rous wiles to cheat, 440 Cloth'd as he is in shamelessness ! my glance, All brazen as he is, he dare not meet. I share no more his counsels, nor his acts ; He hath deceiv'd me once, and wrong'd ; again He shall not cozen me ! Of him, enough ! 445 I pass him by, whom Jove hath robb'd of sense. His gifts I loathe, and spurn ; himself I hold At a hair's worth ; and would he proffer me Tenfold or twentyfold of all he has, Or ever may be his ; or all the gold 450 Sent to Orchomenos or royal Thebes, Egyptian, treasurehouse of countless wealth, Who boasts her hundred gates, through each of which With horse and car two hundred warriors march : Nay, were his gifts in number as the sand, 455 Or dust upon the plain, yet ne'er will I 308 HOMEE'S ILIAD. Book IX By Agamemnon be prevail'd upon, Till I have paid him back my heart's offence. Nor e'er of Agamemnon, Atrens' son, Will I a daughter wed; not were she fair 460 As golden Yenus, and in works renown'd As Pallas, blue-ey'd Maid, yet her e'en so I wed not ; let him choose some other Greek, Some fitting match, of nobler blood than mine. But should the Gods in safety bring me home, 405 At Peleus' hands I may receive a wife ; And Greece can boast of many a lovely maid, In Hellas or in Phthia, daughters fair Of chiefs who hold their native fortresses : Of these, at will, a wife I may select : 470 And ofttimes hath my warlike soul inclin'd To take a wedded wife, a fitting bride, And aged Peleus' wealth in peace enjoy. For not the stores which Troy, they say, contain'd In peaceful times, ere came the sons of Greece, 475 Nor all the treasures which Apollo's shrine, The Archer-God, in rock-built Pythos holds, May weigh with life ; of oxen and of sheep Book IX. HOMER'S ILIAD. 309 Successful forays may good store provide ; And tripods may be gain'd, and noble steeds : 4S0 But when tlie breatli of man liatli pass'd his lips, !Nor strength nor foray can the loss repair. I by my Goddess-mother have been warn'd, The silver-footed Thetis, that o'er me A double chance of destiny impends : 485 If here remaining, round the walls of Troy I wage the war, I ne'er shall see my home, But then undying glory shall be mine : If I return, and see my native land, My glory all is gone ; but length of life 490 Shall then be mine, and death be long deferr'd. If others ask'd my counsel, I should say, ' Homeward direct your course ; of lofty Troy Ye see not yet the end ; all-seeing Jove O'er her extends his hand ; on him relying 495 Her people all with confidence are fill'd.' Go then ; my answer to the chiefs of Greece Speak boldly — such the privilege of age — Bid that some better counsel they devise To save their ships and men ; their present scheme, 310 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book IX. My anger unappeas'd, avails them nought. 501 But Phoenix here shall stay, and sleep to-night ; And with the morrow he with me shall sail And seek our native land, if so he will : For not by force will I remove him hence." 505 He said ; they all, confounded by his words, In silence heard ; so sternly did he speak. At length, in tears, the aged Phoenix spoke, For greatly fear'd he for the ships of Greece : " If, great Achilles, on returning home 510 Thy mind is set, nor canst thou be induc'd To save the ships from fire, so fierce thy wrath ; How then, dear boy, can I remain behind, Alone ? whom with thee aged Peleus sent, That day when he in Agamemnon's cause 515 From Phthia sent thee, inexperienc'd yet In all the duties of confed'rate war, And sage debate, on which attends renown. Me then he sent, instructor of thy youth, To prompt thy language, and thine acts to guide. 520 So not from thee, dear boy, can I consent To part, though Heav'n should undertake my age Book IX. HOMER'S ILIAD. 311 To wipe away, and vig'rous youth, restore, Such as I boasted, when from Greece I fled Before my angry sire, Amyntor, son 525 Of Ormenus ; a fair-hair'd concubine Cause of the quarrel ; her my father lov'd, And by her love estrang'd, despis'd his wife, My mother ; oft she pray'd me to seduce, To vex th' old man, my father's concubine ; 530 I yielded ; he, suspecting, on my head A curse invok'd, and on the Furies call'd His curse to witness, that upon his knees No child, by me begotten, e'er should sit : His curse the Gods have heard, and ratified, 535 Th' infernal King, and awful Proserpine. Then would I fain have slain him with the sword, Had not some God my rising fury quell'd, And set before my mind the public voice, The odium I should have to bear 'mid Greeks, 540 If branded with the name of parricide. But longer in my angry father's house To dwell, my spirit brook'd not, though my friends And kinsmen all besought me to remain ; 312 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book IX And many a goodly sheep, and many a steer 545 They slew, and many swine, with fat o'erlaid, They sing'd, and roasted o'er the burning coals ; And drank in many a cup the old man's wine. .N ine nights they kept me in continual watch, By turns relieving guards. The fires meanwhile 550 Burnt constant : one beneath the porch that fac'd The well-fenc'd court ; one in the vestibule Before my chamber door. The tenth dark night My chamber's closely-fitting doors I broke, And lightly vaulted o'er the court-yard fence, 555 By guards alike and servant maids unmark'd. Through all the breadth of Hellas then I fled, Until at length to Phthia's fruitful soil, Mother of flocks, to Peleus' realm I came, Who kindlv welcom'd me, and with such love 560 As to his only son, his well-belov'd, A father shows, his gen'rous gifts bestow'd. He gave me wealth, he gave me ample rule ; And on the bounds of Phthia bade me dwell, And o'er the Dolopes hold sov'reign sway. 565 Thee too, Achilles, rival of the Gods, UookIX. HOMEK'S ILIAD. 313 Such as thou art I made thee ; from my soul I lov'd thee ; nor wouldst thou with others go Or to the meal, or in the house be fed, Till on my knee thou satt'st, and by my hand 570 Thy food were cut, the cup were tender'd thee ; And often, in thy childish helplessness, The bosom of my dress with wine was drench'd ; Such care I had of thee, such pains I took, Rememb'ring that by HeavVs decree, no son 575 Of mine I e'er might see ; then thee I made, Achilles, rival of the Gods, my son, That thou mightst be the guardian of mine age. But thou, Achilles, curb thy noble rage ; A heart implacable beseems thee not. 580 The Gods themselves, in virtue, honour, strength, Excelling thee, may yet be mollified ; For they, when mortals have transgress'd, or fail'd To do aright, by sacrifice and pray'r, Libations and burnt -off'rings, may be sooth'd. 585 Pray'rs are the daughters of immortal Jove ; But halt, and wrinkled, and of feeble sight, They plod in Ate's track ; while Ate, strong ZU HOMER'S ILIAD. Book IK And swift of foot, outstrips their laggard pace, And, dealing woe to man, o'er all the earth 590 Before them flies : they, following, heal her wounds. Him who with honour welcomes their approach, They greatly aid, and hear him when he prays ; But who rejects, and sternly casts them off, To Saturn's son they go, and make their pray'r 595 That Ate follow him and claim her dues. Then to the daughters of immortal Jove, Do thou, Achilles, show the like respect, That many another brave man's heart hath sway'd. • If to thy tent no gifts Atrides brought, 600 With promises of more, but still retain'd His vehement enmity, I could not ask That thou thy cherish'd anger shouldst discard, And aid the Greeks, how great so-e'er their need. But now large off 'rings hath he giv'n, and more 605 Hath promis'd ; and, of all the Greeks, hath sent To pray thine aid, the men thou lov'st the best. Discredit not their mission, nor their words. Till now, I grant thee, none could blame thy wrath. In praise of men in ancient days renown'd, 610 Book IX. HOMEE'S ILIAD. 315 This have we heard, that how-so-e'er might rage Their hostile feuds, their anger might be still By gifts averted, and by words appeas'd. One case I bear in mind, in times long past, And not in later days ; and here, 'mid friends, 615 How all occurr'd, will I at length recite. Time was, that with JEtolia's warlike bands Round Calydon the Acarnanians fought With mutual slaughter ; these to save the town, The Acarnanians burning to destroy. 020 This curse of war the golden-throned Queen Diana sent, in anger that from her (Eneus the first-fruits of his field withheld. The other Gods their hecatombs receiv'd ; Diana's shrine alone no off 'rings deek'd, 625 Neglected, or o'erlook'd ; the sin was great ; And in her wrath the arrow-darting Queen A savage wild-boar sent, with gleaming tusks, "Which (Eneus' vineyard haunting, wrought him harm. There laid he prostrate many a stately tree, 630 With root and branch, with blossom and with fruit. Him Meleager, son of (Eneus, slew, 816 HOMEE'S ILIAD. Book IX "With youths and clogs from all the neighbouring towns Collected ; smaller force had not avail'd, So huge he was, so fierce ; and many a youth 635 Had by his tusks been laid upon the bier. A fierce contention then the Goddess rais'd, For the boar's head and bristly hide, between The Acarnanian and th' iEtolian bands. While warlike Meleager kept the field, 640 So long the Acarnanians far'd but ill ; Nor dar'd, despite the numbers of their host, Maintain their ground before the city walls. "When he to anger yielded, which sometimes Swells in the bosom e'en of wisest men, 645 Incens'd against his mother, he withdrew To Cleopatra fair, his wedded wife ; (Marpessa her, Evenus' daughter, bore To Idas, strongest man of all who then Were living, who against Apollo's self 650 For the neat-footed maiden bent his bow. Her parents call'd the child Alcyone, In mem'ry of the tears her mother shed, Rival of Alcyon's melancholy fate, Book IX. HOMER'S ILIAD. 317 When by far-darting Plioebus forc'd away). 655 With her, retiring from the field, he nurs'd His wrath ; resenting thus his mother's curse, Althasa ; she her brother's death bore hard, And pray'd to Heav'n above, and with her hands Beating the solid earth, the nether pow'rs, 660 Pluto and awful Proserpine, implor'd, Down on her knees, her bosom wet with tears, Death on her son invoking ; from the depths Of Erebus Erinnys heard her pray'r, Gloom-haunting Goddess, dark and stern of heart. 665 Soon round the gates the din of battle rose, The tow'rs by storm assaulted ; then his aid Th' ^Etonian Elders and the sacred priests With promises of great reward implor'd. A fruitful plot they bade him set apart, 670 The richest land in lovely Calydon, Of fifty acres : half for vineyard meet, And half of fertile plain, for tillage clear'd. Upon the threshold of his lofty rooms Old CEneus stood, and at the portals clos'd 675 He knock'd in vain, a suppliant to his son. 318 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book IX. His sisters and his brother join'd their pray'rs, But sterner his rejection of their suit ; The friends he valued most, and lov'd the best, Yet they too fail'd his fix'd resolve to shake ; 680 Till to his very doors the war had reach'd, The foe upon the tow'rs, the town in flames : Then Meleager's beauteous wife, at length, In tears, beseeching him, the thousand ills Recall'd, which on a captur'd town attend ; 685 The slaughter'd men, the city burnt with fire, The helpless children and deep-bosom'd dames A prey to strangers. List'ning to the tale, His spirit was rous'd within him ; and again He took the field, and donn'd his glitt'ring arms. Thus did his act from doom th' JEtolians save 691 Spontaneous ; yet he gain'd not, though he savVl, The rich reward they once were pledg'd to give. But be not thou like him, nor let thy God Turn thitherward thy thoughts ; our ships on fire,695 Thine aid will less be priz'd ; come, take the gifts, And as a God be honour'd by the Greeks. If thou hereafter, unsolicited, BookIX. HOMER'S ILIAD. 319 The battle join, the Greeks thou mayst protect, But not an equal share of honour gain." 700 Whom answer'd thus Achilles, swift of foot : " Phoenix, my second father, rev'rend sire, Such honours move me not ; my honour comes From Jove, whose will it is that I should here Remain beside the ships, while I retain 705 Breath in my lungs and vigour in my limbs. This too I say, and bear it in thy mind : Disturb me not with weeping and complaints, To do Atrides grace ; if him thou love, My love for thee perchance may turn to hate : 710 My friend should honour him who honours me. But come with me, and of my kingdom half, And equal honours shalt thou share with me. These shall our message bear ; stay thou the while, And on soft couch repose ; to-morrow morn 71 Will we determine or to sail or stay." He said, and with his eyebrows gave a sign In silence to Patroclus, to prepare A bed for Phoenix, that without delay The rest might leave the tent ; then thus began r. 320 HOMEE'S ILIAD. Book IX. Ajax, the godlike sou of Telamon : 721 " Ulysses sage, Laertes' high-born son, Depart we now ; for this way our discourse Can lead to no result ; behoves us bear Our tidings, all unwelcome as they are, 725 Back to the chiefs awaiting our return. Achilles hath allow'd his noble heart To cherish rancour and malignant hate ; Nor recks he of his old companions' love, Wherewith we honour'd him above the rest. 730 Eelentless he ! a son's or brother's death, By payment of a fine, may be aton'd ; The slayer may remain in peace at home, The debt discharged ; the other will forego, The forfeiture receiv'd, his just revenge ; 735 But thou maintain'st a stern, obdurate mood. And for a single girl ! we offer sev'n, Surpassing fair, and other gifts to boot. We now bespeak thy courtesy ; respect Thy hearth ; remember that beneath thy roof 740 Wc stand, deputed by the gen'ral voice Of all the host ; and fain would claim to be, Book IX. HOMER'S ILIAD. 321 Of all the Greeks, thy best and dearest friends." "Whom answer'd thus Achilles, swift of foot : " Illustrious Ajax, son of Telamon, 745 Without offence hast thou thy message giv'n ; But fury fills my soul, whene'er I think How Agamemnon, 'mid th' assembled Greeks, Insulting, held me forth to public scorn, As some dishonour'd, houseless vagabond. 750 But go ye now, and bear my answer back : Ko more in bloody war will I engage, Till noble Hector, Priam's godlike son, O'er slaughter'd Greeks, your ships enwrapp'd in fire, Shall reach the quarters of the Myrmidons. 755 Ere he assail my ship and tents, I think That Hector, valiant as he is, will pause." Thus he : they each the double goblet rais'd, And, to the Gods their due libations pour'd, Ulysses leading, to the ships return'd. 760 Meanwhile Patroclus bade th' attendant maids Prepare a bed for Phoenix ; they obey'd, And quickly laid the bed with fleeces warm, And rugs, and linen light and fine o'erspread. vol. i. w 322 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book IX. There slept th' old man, and waited for the morn. 765 "Within the tent's recess Achilles slept ; And by his side, from Lesbos captive brought, Daughter of Phorbas, Diomede fair ; On th' other side Patroclus lay ; with him The graceful Iphis, whom, when Scyros' isle 770 He captur'd, and Enyes' rock-built fort, Achilles to his lov'd companion gave. "When to Atrides' tent the envoys came, The chiefs, uprising, pledg'd them one by one In golden goblets ; then their tidings ask'd. 775 First Agamemnon, King of men, enquir'd : " Tell me, renown'd Ulysses, pride of Greece, "What says he : will he save our ships from fire, Or still, in wrathful mood, withhold his aid ?" To whom again Ulysses, stout of heart : 780 " Most mighty Agamemnon, King of men, His anger is not quench'd, but fiercer still It glows ; thy gifts and thee alike he spurns ; He bids thee with the other chiefs concert The means thy people and thy ships to save ; 785 And menaces himself at early dawn BookIX. HOMER'S ILIAD. 323 To launch his well-trimm'd vessels on the main. Kay more, he counsels others, so he says, Homeward to turn, since here of lofty Troy "We see not yet the end ; all-seeing Jove 790 O'er her extends his hand ; on him relying, Her people all with confidence are fill'd. Such was his language ; here before you stand Ajax and both the heralds, sage, grave men, Who with me went, and will confirm my words. 795 Old Phomix left we there, so will'd the chief, That with the morrow he with him may sail, And seek their native land, if so he will ; For not by force will he remove him hence." Ulysses thus ; they all in silence heard, 800 Amaz'd, so stern the message that he bore. Long time in silence sat the chiefs of Greece. Outspoke at length the valiant Diomed : " Most mighty Agamemnon, King of men, Would that thou ne'er hadst stoop'd with costly gifts To sue for aid from Peleus' matchless son ; 806 For he before was over-proud, and now Thine offers will have tenfold swoll'n his pride. 324 HOMEE'S ILIAD. Book IX. But leave we him, according to his will. To go or stay : he then will join the fight, 810 "When his own spirit shall prompt, or Heav'n inspire. But hear ye all, and do as I advise : Refresh'd with food and wine (for therein lie Both strength and courage), turn we to our rest ; And when the rosy-finger'd morn appears, 815 Thyself among the foremost, with bold hearts, Before our ships both horse and foot array." He said ; and all the chiefs with loud applause His speech confirm'd ; then, due libations pour'd, Each to his sev'ral tent they all withdrew ; 820 Then laid them down, and sought the boon of sleep. 821 ARGUMENT. THE NIGHT AD VENTURE OP DIOMED AND ULYSSES. Upon the refusal of Achilles to return to the army, the distress of Agamemnon is described in the most lively manner. He takes no rest that night, but passes through the camp, awaking the leaders, and contriving all possible methods for the public safety. Meneliius, Nestor, Ulysses, and Diomed, are employed in raising the rest of the captains. They call a council of war, and deter- mine to send scouts into the enemy's camp, to learn their pos- ture, and discover their intentions. Diomed undertakes the hazardous enterprise, and makes choice of Ulysses for his com- panion. In their passage they surprise Dolon, whom Hector had sent on a like design to the camp of the Grecians. From him they are informed of the situation of the Trojans and auxiliary forces, and particularly of Rhesus, and the Thracians, who were lately arrived. They pass on with success; kill Rhesus with several of his officers, and seize the famous horses of that prince, with which they return in triumph to the camp. The same night continues ; the scene lies in the two camps. BookX. HOMER'S ILIAD. 327 BOOK X. K night-long slumbers lay the other chiefs Of all the Greeks, by gentle sleep subdued ; But not on Agamemnon, Atreus' son, By various cares oppress'd, sweet slumber fell. As when from Jove, the fair-hair'd Juno's Lord, 5 Flashes the lightning, bringing in its train Tempestuous storm of mingled rain and hail Or snow, by winter sprinkled o'er the fields ; Or op'ning wide the rav'nous jaws of war ; So Agamemnon from his inmost heart 10 Pour'd forth in groans his multitudinous grief, His spirit within him sinking. On the plain He look'd, and there, alarm'd, the watchfires saw, Which, far advanc'd before the walls of Troy, Blaz'd numberless ; and thence of pipes and flutes 15 He heard the sound, and busy hum of men. Upon the ships he look'd, and men of Greece, 328 HOMEE'S ILIAD. Book X. And by the roots his hair in handfuls tore To Jove on high ; deep groan'd his mighty heart. Thus as he nius'd, the wisest course appear'd, 20 "With JSTestor, son of ISTeleus, to confer, If they some scheme in council might devise To ward destruction from the Grecian host. He rose, and o'er his body drew his vest, And underneath his well-turn' d feet he bound 25 His sandals fair ; then o'er his shoulders threw, Down reaching to his feet, a lion's skin, Tawny and vast ; then grasp'd his pond'rous spear. On Meneliius weigh'd an equal dread ; 3STor on his eyes that night had slumber sat, 30 Lest ill befall the Greeks ; who, in his cause, Crossing the wat'ry waste, had come to Troy, And bold defiance to the Trojans giv'n. Round his broad chest a panther's skin he threw ; Then on his head his brazen helmet plac'd, 35 And in his brawny hand a lance he bore. To meet his brother went he forth, of Greece The mighty monarch, as a God rever'd. Him by the ship he found, in act to arm ; BookX. HOMER'S ILIAD. 329 And -welcome was his presence to the King. 40 Then valiant Meneliius first began : "Why thus in arms, good brother? seek'st thou one The Trojan camp to spy ? I greatly fear That none will undertake the task, alone To spy the movements of the hostile camp 45 In the dark night ; stout-hearted he must be." To whom the monarch Agamemnon thus : " Great need, my noble brother, have we both Of sagest counsels, if we hope the Greeks And Grecian ships from ruin to preserve, 50 Since turn'd against us is the mind of Jove. To Hector's off 'rings most his soul inclines ; For never have I seen, or heard men tell, How in one day one man has wrought such loss As Hector, dear to Jove, yet not the son 55 Of God or Goddess, on the Greeks has wrought. Such deeds hath he achiev'd, such havoc made, As we shall long in bitter mem'ry keep. Haste thou amid the ships, and hither bring Idomeneus and Ajax; I the while 6C Will Nestor rouse, and urge that he with us 330 HOMEE'S ILIAD. Book X. The outposts visit, and instruct the guard. To him they best will listen; for his son Commands the watch ; with him Meriones, The follower of the King Idomeneus : 65 To them by pref'rence hath this charge been giv'n." He said : and Menelaus answer'd thus : " What wouldst thou have me do then ? here remain "With them, and wait thy coming, or to them Thy message give, and follow in thy steps ? " 70 Him answer'd Agamemnon, King of men : " Remain thou here, lest haply we might fail To meet ; for in the camp are many paths. But thou, where'er thou go'st, each sev'ral man Address, and ask to rise ; to each his name 75 And patronymic giving ; pay to each All due respect ; nor bear thee haughtily ; We like the rest must share the load of toil, « Which Jove assigns to all of mortal birth." His brother thus with counsels wise dismiss'd, 80 The King to aged Nestor took his way : Him by his tent and dark-ribb'd ship he found On a soft couch ; beside him lay his arms, BookX. HOMEK'S ILIAD. 331 His shield, two lances, and a glitt'ring helm : There lay the rich- wrought belt the old man wore, 85 When to the battle, arm'd, he led his troops ; For nought to age's weakness would he yield. Raising his head, and oU his elbow propp'd, He question'd thus Atrides : " Who art thou, That wand'rest through th' encampment thus alone, 90 In the dark night, when other mortals sleep ? Seek'st thou some mule broke loose, or comrade lost ? Speak, nor in silence come ; what wouldst thou here ?" To whom thus Agamemnon, King of men : " O Nestor ! son of Keleus, pride of Greece, 95 Know me for Agamemnon, Atreus' son, On whom hath Jove, beyond the lot of men, Laid grief that ne'er shall end, while I retain Breath in my lungs, and vigour in my limbs. I wander thus, because these eyes of mine 100 Sweet slumber visits not, by cares of war Oppress'd, and harass'd by the woes of Greece. Much for the Greeks I fear ; nor keeps my mind Its wonted firmness ; I am ill at ease ; And leaps my troubled heart as tho' 'twould burst 105 332 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book X My bosom's bounds ; my limbs beneath me shake. But if thou wilt, since thou too know'st not sleep, Together to the outposts let us go, And see if there, by toil and sleep o'erpow'r'd, The guard repose, neglectful of their watch. 110 The foe is close at hand ; nor are we sure Ho may not hazard e'en a night attack." To whom Gerenian Nestor thus replied ; " Most mighty Agamemnon, King of men, Not all the hopes that Hector entertains 115 Shall by the Lord of counsel be fulfill'd ; For him are toil and danger yet in store, If but Achilles of his wrath repent. Gladly will I attend thee ; others too, Tydides, spearman bold, Ulysses sage, 120 Ajax the swift, and Phyleus' noble son, Should all be summon'd ; and 'twere well that one Across the camp should run, to call in haste The godlike Ajax, and Idomeneus ; Theirs are the farthest ships, nor near at hand. 125 But, dear to me as Menelaus is, And highly honour'd, I must blame, that thus bookX. HOMER'S ILIAD. 333 (Though thou shouldst take offence, I needs must say) He sleeps, and leaves the toil to thee alone. With all the chiefs he should be busied now, 130 Imploring aid, in this our utmost need." To whom thus Agamemnon, King of men : " For other times, old man, reserve thy blame ; Sometimes, I own, he lags behind, nor takes His share of labour ; not from indolence, 135 Or want of sense ; but still regarding me ; Waiting from me an impulse to receive. But now, before me he was up, and came To visit me ; and I have sent him on To call those very men whom thou hast nam'd. 140 Come then ; for we, beside the gates, and guard Shall find them ; there my orders were to meet." To whom Gerenian ISTestor thus replied ; " Then none can blame him ; nor can any Greek Justly refuse his summons to obey." 145 He said, and round his body wrapped his vest ; Then on his feet his sandals fair he bound, And o'er his shoulders clasp'd a purple cloak, Doubled, with ample folds, and downy pile ; 331 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book X. Then took his spear, with point of sharpen'd brass, 150 And through the camp prepar'd to take his way. Gerenian Nestor from his slumbers first Ulysses, sage as Jove in council, rous'd, Loud shouting ; soon the voice his senses reach'd ; Forth from his tent he came, and thus he spoke : 155 " What cause so urgent leads you, through the camp, In the dark night to wander thus alone ?" To whom Gerenian Nestor thus replied : " Ulysses sage, Laertes' godlike son, Be not offended ; such the stress that now 160 Weighs down our army ; come thou then with us, And others let us call ; with whom 'tis meet That we should counsel take, to fight or fly." He said ; Ulysses to the tent return'd ; Then, his broad shield across his shoulders thrown, 165 Came forth again, and with them took his way. To Diomed, the son of Tydeus, next They went ; and him they found beside his arms, Without his tent ; his comrades slept around, Their heads upon their bucklers laid ; their spears Stood upright, on the butts ; the burnish'd brass 171 BookX. HOMER'S ILIAD. 335 Like Heav'n's own lightning, flashing far around. Streteh'd on a wild bull's hide the chief repos'd, A gay-wrought carpet roll'd beneath his head. Gerenian Nestor close behind him stood, 175 And touched him with his foot, and thus in tone Reproachful spoke : " Arouse thee, Tydeus' son ! Why sleep'st thou thus all night ? or know'st thou not That on the very margin of the plain, And close beside the ships the Trojans lie, 180 And little space between the camps is left ?" Quick rous'd from sleep, thus answer'd Diomed : " Beshrew thy heart, old man ! no labour seems For thee too hard ; are there not younger men To run about the camp, and summon all 185 The sev'ral chiefs ? thou dost too much, old man." To whom Gerenian Nestor thus replied : " True, friend, and full of wisdom are thy words ; Good sons indeed I have, and followers brave And many, who might well my message bear ; 190 But great is now the stress that lies on Greece ; For on a razor's edge is balanc'd now, To all the Greeks, the chance of life or death. 336 HOMEK'S ILIAD. Book X Do tliou then go (for thou my younger art), And if thou pity me, thyself arouse 195 Ajax the swift, and Phyleus' noble son." lie said ; the warrior round his shoulders threw, Down reaching to his feet, a lion's hide, Tawny and dark ; and took his pond'rous spear. He went, arous'd, and with him brought the chiefs. 200 "When to the guard they came, not sunk in sleep Found they the leaders ; but on wakeful watch Intent, and all alert beside their arms. As round a sheepfold keep their anxious watch The dogs, who in the neighbouring thicket hear 205 Some beast, that, bold in search of prey, has come Down from the mountain ; loud the clamours rise Of men and dogs ; all sleep is banish'd thence ; So from their eyes was banish'd sleep, who watch'd Through that disastrous night ; still plainward turning At ev'ry movement in the Trojan camp. 211 The old man saw, well-pleas'd ; and thus address'd "With cheering words the captains of the guard : " "Watch ever thus, good youths; nor be surpris'd By slumber, lest the foe a triumph gain." 215 BookX. HOMEli'S ILIAD. 337 This said, lie cross'd the ditch, and with him went The Grecian leaders, to the council call'd : With them, admitted to the conf 'rence, went Meriones, and Nestor's noble son. The deep-dug ditch they cross'd, and sat them down Upon an open space, from corpses clear ; 221 Where Hector from the slaughter of the Greeks Turn'd back, when Ev'ning spread her veil around : There sat they down, and there the conf 'rence held. Gerenian Nestor first took up the word : 225 " O friends ! is any here with heart so bold Who dares, self-confident, the Trojan camp To enter ? there some straggler he might take, Or in the camp itself some tidings gain, What are their secret counsels ; if they mean 230 Here by the ships to hold their ground, or back, Sated with vict'ry, to the town retire. This could he learn, and hither scatheless bring His tidings, high as Heav'n in all men's mouths Would be his praise, and ample his reward. 235 For ev'ry captain of a ship should give A. coal-black ewe, and at her foot a lamb, VOL. I. X 338 HOMEE'S ILIAD. Book X. A prize beyond compare ; and high should be His place at banquets and at solemn feasts." He said ; but all the chiefs in silence heard ; 240 Then rose the valiant Diomed, and said : " Nestor, that heart is mine ; I dare alone Enter the hostile camp, so close at hand ; Yet were one comrade giv'n me, I should go "With more of comfort, more of confidence. 245 "Where two combine, one before other sees The better course ; and ev'n though one alone The readiest way discover, yet would be His judgment slower, his decision less." He said, and many chiefs to Diomed 250 Proffer'd companionship ; stood forth at once, "With him to penetrate the Trojan camp, The two Ajaces, ministers of Mars ; Stood forth Meriones, and eagerly Stood forth the son of ISTestor; Atreus' son, 255 The royal Menelaus, spearman bold, And stout Ulysses, whose enduring heart For ev'ry deed of valour was prepar'd. Hose Agamemnon, King of men, and said : BookX. HOMER'S ILIAD. 339 " Tydides, comrade dearest to my soul, 260 Choose thou thine own companion, whom thou wilt ; Of all the many here that proffer aid Him whom thou deem'st the best ; nor from respect To persons leave the better man behind, And take the worse ; nor def 'rence show to rank, 265 Not though the purest royal blood were his." In fear for Menelaus thus he spoke : Then answer'd valiant Diomed, and said ; '■ If my companion I may freely choose, How can I pass the sage Ulysses by ? 270 Of ready wit, and dauntless courage, prov'd In ev'ry danger ; and to Pallas dear. I should not fear, by him accompanied, To pass through fire, and safely both return ; So far in prudence he surpasses all." 275 "Whom answer'd thus Ulysses, stout of heart : " Tydides, nor exaggerated praise Restow on me, nor censure ; for thou speak'st To those who know me all for what I am. But go we ; night wanes fast, the morn is near : 280 The stars are high in Heav'n ; and of the night 340 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book X Two thirds are spent, one third alone remains." He said ; and both prepar'd to don their arms. The youthful warrior Thrasymedes gave \/ To Diomed a two-edg'd sword (his own 285 Had in the ship been left) and ample shield ; Then on his brows a leathern headpiece plac'd, Without or peak or plume ; a simple casque, Such as is worn by youths to guard their head. A bow, and well-fill'd quiver, and a sword, 290 Meriones to sage Ulysses gave ; And on his brows a leathern headpiece plac'd, Well wrought within, with num'rous straps secur'd, And on th' outside, with wild boars' gleaming tusks Profusely garnish'd, scatter'd here and there 295 By skilful hand ; the midst with felt was lin'd ; This from Amyntor, son of Ormenus, Autolycus from Eleon bore away, Spoil of his pillag'd house ; Autolycus Gave to Amphidamas, Cytheran chief, 300 Who in Scandea dwelt ; Amphidamas To Molus, pledge of friendship ; he again Gave to his son, Meriones, from whom BookX. HOMEE'S ILIAD. 341 It now encircled sage Ulysses' brow. Thus with accoutrements and arms supplied, 305 They left their brother chiefs, and took their way. Then close beside their path, by Pallas sent, Rose, on the right, a heron ; through the gloom They saw it not indeed, but heard the cry. The fav'ring sign with joy Ulysses hail'd, 310 And thus to Pallas pray'd : " Hear me, thou child Of aegis-bearing Jove, who still hast stood In ev'ry peril at my side, whose eye My ev'ry movement sees ; now, Goddess, now Befriend me ; grant that safe, with triumph crown'd, We may return, some great exploit achiev'd, 316 Such as the Trojans long may bear in mind." Him following, thus the brave Tydides pray'd : " My voice too, child of Jove, undaunted, hear ; And be with me, as with my father erst, 320 The godlike Tydeus, when to Thebes he went, An envoy, in advance ; and left behind, Upon Asopus' banks the mail-clad Greeks. Smooth Avas the message which to Thebes he bore ; But great, his mission ended, were the deeds 325 342 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book X. That with thine aid he wrought ; for, Goddess, thou Wast with him, and thine arm was his defence : So be thou now with me, and me defend. Then on thine altar will I sacrifice A yearling heifer, broad of brow, untam'd, 330 Whereon no yoke hath mortal ever laid : Her will I give, and tip her horns with gold." Thus as they pray'd, their pray'r the Goddess heard ; Then, their devotions ended, on they far'cl Through the deep dead of night, like lions twain, 335 'Mid slaughter, corpses, arms, and blacken'd gore. ~Nor, in the Trojan camp, did Hector leave The chiefs to rest ; but all to conf 'rence call'd, The leaders and the councillors of Troy ; To whom his prudent speech he thus acldress'd : 340 " Who is there here, that for a rich reward A noble work will undertake ? A car And two strong-collar'd horses, best of all That can be found within the Grecian lines, Shall he receive, who, to his endless praise, 345 Shall dare approach the ships ; and learn if still They keep their wonted watch, or, by our arms BookX. HOMER'S ILIAD. 343 Subdued and vanquish'd, meditate retreat, And, worn with toil, the nightly watch neglect." Thus Hector spoke ; but all in silence heard. 350 There was one Dolon in the Trojan camp. The herald's son, Eumedes ; rich in gold And brass ; not fair of face, but swift of foot ; Amid five sisters he the only son ; Who thus to Hector and the Trojans spoke : 355 " Hector, with dauntless courage I will dare Approach the ships, and bring thee tidings sure ; But hold thou forth thy royal staff, and swear That I the horses and the brass-bound car Shall have, the boast of Peleus' matchless son : 360 Not vain shall be my errand, nor deceive Thy hopes ; right through the camp I mean to pass To Agamemnon's tent, where all the chiefs Debate in council, or to fight or fly." He said ; and Hector took his royal staff", 3G5 And swore to him : " Be witness Jove himself, The Lord of thunder, that no Trojan man, Thyself except, shall e'er those horses drive ; For thee they are reserv'd, a glorious prize." 3U HOMEE'S ILIAD. Book X, Thus Hector swore ; though unfulnll'd the oath, The hope to Dolon fresh assurance gave. 371 Forthwith, his bow across his shoulders slung, A grisly wolf-skin o'er it, on his head A cap of marten's fur, and in his hand A jav'lin, from the camp he took his way, 375 Straight to the Grecian ships ; but never thence Destin'd to bring th' expected tidings back. The crowd of men and horses left behind, Briskly he mov'd along ; Ulysses first Mark'd his approach, and to Tydides said : 380 " See, from the camp where some one this way comes, With what intent I know not ; if to play The spy about the ships, or rob the dead. Turn we aside, and let him pass us by A little way ; we then with sudden rush 385 May seize him ; or if he outstrip us both By speed of foot, may urge him tow'rd the ships, Driving liim still before us with our spears, And from the city cutting off his flight." Thus saying, 'mid the dead, beside the road 390 They crouch'd ; he, all unconscious, hasten'd by. Book X. HOMER'S ILIAD. 345 But when such space was interpos'd as leave Between the sluggish oxen and themselves* A team of mules (so much the faster they Through the stiff fallow drag the jointed plough), 395 They rush'd upon him ; at the sound he stopp'd, Deeming that from the Trojan camp they came, By Hector sent, to order his return. Within a spear's length when they came, or less, For foes he knew them, and to flight address'd 400 His active limbs ; they rush'd in hot pursuit. And as two hounds, well practis'd in the chase, With srlist'nino- fana;s, unfla^srinGr, strain to catch, Iii woodland glade, some pricket deer, or hare, That flies before them, screaming; so those two, 405 Tydides and Ulysses, stout of heart, "With fiery zeal, unflagging, strain'd to catch The flying Dolon, from the camp cut off; But when the fugitive approach'd the ships, Close by the guard, fresh vigour Pallas gave 410 * This comparison does not afford a very accurate criterion of the " space interposed ;" which cannot be estimated without knowing the total distance within which the faster was to outstrip the slower team. 346 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book X To Diomed, lest haply from the walls Some other might anticipate his blow, And he himself but second honours gain. Tydides then with threat'ning gesture cried, " Stop, or I hurl my spear; and small thy chance, 415 If I assail thee, of escape from death." He said, and threw his spear ; but by design It struck him not ; above his shoulder ilew The polish'd lance, and quiver'd in the ground. Sudden he stopp'd, with panic paralys'd : 420 His teeth all chatt'ring, pale with fear he stood, With falt'ring accents ; panting, they came up And seiz'd him in their grasp ; he thus, in tears : " Spare but my life ; my life I can redeem ; For ample stores I have of gold, and brass, 425 And well- wrought iron ; and of these my sire Would pay a gen'rous ransom, could he learn That in the Grecian ships I yet surviv'd." To whom Ulysses, deep-designing, thus : " Be of good cheer; nor let the fear of death 430 Disturb thy mind ; but tell me truly this ; How is 't that tow'rcl the ships thou com'st alone, BookX. HOMEK'S ILIAD. 347 In the still night, when other mortals sleep ? Com'st thou perchance for plunder of the dead ? Or seek'st upon our ships to play the spy, 435 By Hector sent ? or of thine own accord ?" Then Dolon thus — his knees with terror shook — " With much persuasion, of my better mind Hector beguil'd me, off 'ring as my prize Achilles' horses and his brass-bound car ; 440 Through the dark night he sent me, and enjoin'd, Ent'ring your hostile camp, to learn if still Te keep your wonted watch, or by our arms Subdued and vanquished, meditate retreat, And worn with toil, your nightly watch neglect." 445 To whom Ulysses thus with scornful smile : " High soar'd thy hopes indeed, that thought to win The horses of Achilles ; hard are they For mortal man to harness or control, Save for Achilles' self, the Goddess-born. 450 But tell me truly this ; when here thou cam'st, Where left'st thou Hector, guardian chief of Troy ? Where are his warlike arms ? his horses where ? Where lie the rest ? and where are plac'd their guards? 348 HOMEK'S ILIAD. Book X What are their secret counsels ? do they mean 455 Here by the ships to keep their ground, or back, Sated with vict'ry, to the town return ? " Whom Dolon answer'd thus, Eumedes' son : " Thy questions all true answers shall receive ; Hector, with those who share his counsels, sits 460 In conf ' rence, far apart, near Ilus' tomb ; But for the guards thou speak'st of, noble chief, Not one is station'd to protect the camp. Around the Trojan fires indeed, perforce, A watch is kept ; and they, among themselves, 465 Due caution exercise : but, for th' Allies, They sleep, and to the Trojans leave the watch, Since nor their children nor their wives are near." To whom in answer sage Ulysses thus : " Say now, where sleep they ? with the Trojans mix'd, Or separate ? explain, that I may know." 471 Whom answer'd Dolon thus, Eumedes' son : " To this too will I give ye answer true ; Next to the sea the Carian forces lie ; The Paeon archers and the Leleges, 475 The Caucons,and the bold Pelasgians next ; J3ookX. HOMER'S ILIAD. 349 On Thyrubra's side the Lycians' lot has fall'n, The Mysians brave, the Phrygian cavalry, And the Maeonians with their horsehair plumes. But why of these enquire ? if ye intend 480 An inroad on the camp, apart from all, New come, the farthest off, the Thracians lie : Rhesus their King, the son of Eioneus, Sleeps in the midst ; no steeds that e'er I saw For size and beauty can with his compare : 485 Whiter than snow, and swifter than the wind. With gold and silver is his chariot wrought, His armour golden, of gigantic size, A marvel to behold ! it seems not meet For mortal man, but for th' immortal Gods. 490 But take me now in safety to the ships ; Or leave me here in fetters bound, that so, Ere ye return, ye may approve my words, And see if I have told you true, or no." To whom thus Diomed with stern regard : 495 " Dolon, though good thy tidings, hope not thou, Once in our hands, to 'scape the doom of death ; For if we now should let thee go, again 350 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book X *j In after times thou mightst our ships approach, As secret spy, or open enemy : 500 But if "beneath my hands thou lose thy life, No farther trouble shalt thou cause the Greeks." He said ; and as the suppliant sought in vain To touch his beard, imploring, through his throat, Both tendons sev'ring, drove his trenchant blade : 505 Ev'n while he spoke, his head was roll'd in dust. The cap of marten fur from off his head They took, the wolf-skin, and the bow unstrung, And jav'lin ; these Ulysses held aloft, And thus to Pallas pray'd, who gave the spoil : 510 " Receive, great Goddess, these our gifts ; to thee, Of all th' Immortals on Olympus' height, Our off 'rings first we give ; conduct us now, The Thracian camp and Thracian steeds to gain." Thus as he spoke, amid the tamarisk scrub 515 Far off he threw the trophies ; then with reeds, And twigs new broken from the tamarisk boughs, He set a mark, lest in the gloom of night Returning, they might haply miss the spot. Then on they pass'd thro' arms and blacken'd gore, 520 BookX. HOMER'S ILIAD. 351 And reach'd the confines of the Thracian camp. There fonnd they all by sleep subdued ; their arms Beside them on the ground, in order due, In triple rows ; and by the side of each, Harness'd and yok'd, his horses ready stood^ 525 Surrounded by his warriors, Rhesus slept ; Beside him stood his coursers fleet, their reins Suspended to the chariot's topmost rail : Ulysses mark'd him as he lay, and said, " This is the man, Tydides, these the steeds, 530 To us by Dolon, whom we slew, describ'd. Now then, put forth thy might ; beseems it not To stand thus idly with thine arms in hand : Loose thou the horses ; or do thou the men Despatch, and to my care the horses leave." 535 He said : and Pallas vigour new inspir'd, That right and left he smote ; dire were the groans Of slaughter'd men ; the earth was red with blood ; And as a lion on th' untended flock Of sheep or goats with savage onslaught springs, 540 Ev'n so Tydides on the Thracians sprang, Till twelve were slain ; and as Tydides' sword 352 HOIEE'S ILIAD. Book X. Gave each to death, Ulysses by the feet Drew each aside ; reflecting, that perchance The horses, startled, might refuse to pass 545 The corpses ; for as yet they knew them not. But when Tydides saw the sleeping King, A thirteenth victim to his sword was giv'n, Painfully breathing ; for by Pallas' art, He saw that night, as in an evil dream, 550 The son of (Eneus standing o'er his head. Meanwhile Ulysses sage the horses loos'd ; He gather' d up the reins, and with his bow (For whip was none at hand) he drove them forth ; Then softly whistling to Tydides gave 555 A signal ; he, the while, remain'd behind, Musing what bolder deed he yet might do ; Whether the seat, whereon the arms Avere laid, To draw away, or, lifted high in air, To bear it off in triumph on the car ; 560 Or on the Thracians farther loss inflict ; But while he mus'd, beside him Pallas stood, And said, " Bethink thee, Tydeus' son, betimes Of thy return, lest, if some other God BookX. HOMEK'S ILIAD. 353 Should wake the Trojans, thou sliouldst need to fly." She said ; the heav'nly voice he recogniz'd, 566 And mounted straight the car ; Ulysses touch'd The horses with his bow ; and, urg'd to speed, They tow'rd the ships their rapid course pursued. ]S"or idle watch Apollo kept, who saw 570 Tydicles o'er the plain by Pallas led ; With anger fill'd, the Trojan camp he sought ; And Rhesus' kinsman, good Hippocoon, The Thracian councillor, from sleep arous'd ; Awaking, when the vacant space he view'd, 575 "Where late had stood the horses ; and his friends Gasping in death, and welt'ring in their blood, He groan'd as on his comrade's name he call'd : Then loud the clamour rose, and wild uproar, Unspeakable, of Trojans thronging round ; 580 They marvell'd at the deeds ; but marvell'd more How they who wrought them had escap'd unscath'd. Meantime arriv'd where Hector's scout they slew, Ulysses, lov'd of Heav'n, a moment check'd His eager steeds ; Tydides from the car 585 Leap'd to the ground, and in Ulysses' hand VOL. I. y 354 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book X. The bloody trophies plac'd ; then mounted quick, And tow'rd the ships, their destin'd goal, urg'd on The fiery horses ; nothing loth, they flew. Nestor first heard the sound, and cried, " O friends, The leaders and the councillors of Greece, 591 Am I deceiv'd, or is it true ? methinks The sound of horses, hurrying, strikes mine ear ; Grant Heav'n, Ulysses and brave Diomed May bring those horses from the Trojan camp ; 505 Yet much I fear our bravest may have met "With some disaster 'mid the crowd of foes." He scarce had ended, when themselves appear'd, And from the car descended : welcom'd back With cordial grasp of hands, and friendly words. 600 Gerenian Nestor first, enquiring, said : " Tell me, renown'd Ulysses, pride of Greece, "Whence come these horses % from the Trojan camp % Or hath some God, that met you by the way, Bestow'd them, radiant as the beams of light \ 605 Among the Trojans day by day I move ; 'Tis not my wont ; old warrior though I be, To lag behind ; but horses such as these Book X. HOMER'S ILIAD. 355 I never saw ; some God hath giv'n them, sure ; For Jove, the Cloud-compeller, loves you both, 610 And Pallas, child of aegis-bearing Jove." To whom again the sage Ulysses thus : " JSTestor, son of Neleus, pride of Greece, Had they so will'd, the Gods, so great their pow'r, E'en better horses could have giv'n than these ; 615 But these, old man, are Thracians, newly come ; "Whose King the valiant Diomed hath slain, And with him twelve, the best of all his band. A scout too have we slain, by Hector sent, And by the Trojan chiefs, to spy our camp." 620 He said, and o'er the ditch the horses drove, Exulting in their prize ; and with him went The other chiefs, rejoicing, through the camp. Arriv'd at Diomed's well-order'd tent, First with strong halters to the rack, where stood, 625 High-fed with corn, his own swift-footed steeds, The horses they secur'd ; Ulysses then The bloody spoils of Dolon stow'd away In the ship's stern, till fitting sacrifice To Pallas might be offer'd ; to the sea 630 356 HOMEE'S ILIAD. Book X. Descending then, they wash'd away the sweat, "Which on their necks, and thighs, and knees had dried : The sweat wash'd off, and in the ocean waves Themselves refresh'd, they sought the polish'd bath ; Then, by the bath restor'd, and all their limbs 633 Anointed freely with the lissom oil, Sat down to breakfast ; and from flowing bowls In Pallas' honour pour'd the luscious wine. 638 ARGUMENT. THE THIRD BATTLE, AND THE ACTS OF AGAMEMNON. Agamemnon, Laving armed himself, leads the Grecians to battle Hector prepares the Trojans to receive them ; while Jupiter, Juno, and Minerva, give the signals of war. Agamemnon bears all be- fore him ; and Hector is commanded by Jupiter (who sends Iris for that purpose) to decline the engagement, till the king should bo wounded, and retire from the field. He then makes a great slaughter of the enemy ; Ulysses and Diomed put a stop to him for a time ; but the latter, being wounded by Paris, is obliged to desert his companion, who is encompassed by the Trojans, wounded, and in the utmost danger, till Meneliius and Ajax res- cue him. Hector comes against Ajax, but that hero alone opposes multitudes and rallies the Greeks. In the meantime Machaon, in the other wing of the army, is pierced with an arrow by Paris, and carried from the fight in Nestor's chariot. Achilles (who overlooked the action from his ship) sends Patroclus to inquire which of the Greeks was wounded in that manner. Nestor enter- tains , him in his tent with an account of the accidents of the day, and a long recital of some former wars which he had remem- bered, tending to put Patroclus upon persuading Achilles to fight for his countrymen, or at least to permit him to do it clad in Achilles' armour. Patroclus in his return meets Eurypylus also wounded, and assists in that distress. This book opens with the eight-and-twentieth day of the poem ; and the same day, with its various actions and adventures, is extended through the twelfth, thirteenth, fourteenth, fifteenth, sixteenth, seventeenth, and part of the eighteenth books. The scene lies in the field near the monument of Ilus. Book XL HOMER'S ILIAD. 359 BOOK XI. "ATOW rose Aurora from Tithorras' bed, To mortals and Immortals bringing light ; When to the ships of Greece came Discord down, Despatch'd from Jove, with dire portents of war. Upon Ulysses' lofty ship she stood, 5 The midmost, thence to shout to either side, Or to the tents of Ajax Telamon, Or of Achilles, who at each extreme, Confiding in their strength, had moor'd their ships. There stood the Goddess, and in accents loud 10 And dread she call'd, and fix'd in ev'ry breast The fierce resolve to wage unwearied war ; And dearer to their hearts than thoughts of home Or wish'd return, became the battle-field. Atrides, loudly shouting, call'd the Greeks 15 To arms : himself his flashing armour donn'd. First on his legs the well-wrought greaves he fix'd, 360 HOMEK'S ILIAD. Book XI Fasten'd with, silver clasps ; his ample chest A breastplate guarded, giv'n by Cinyras In pledge of friendship ; for in Cyprus' isle 20 He heard the rumour of the glorious fleet About to sail for Troy ; and sought with gifts To win the favour of the mighty King. Ten bands were there inwrought of dusky bronze, Twelve of pure gold, twice ten of shining tin : 25 Of bronze six dragons upwards tow'rds the neck Their length extended, three on either side : In colour like the bow, which Saturn's son Plac'd in the clouds, a sign to mortal men : Then o'er his shoulder threw his sword ; bright flash'd The golden studs ; the silver scabbard shone, 31 "With golden baldrick fitted ; next his shield He took, full-siz'd, well- wrought, well-prov'd in fight ; Around it ran ten circling rims of brass ; "With twenty bosses round of burnish'd tin, 35 And, in the centre, one of dusky bronze. A Gorgon's head, with aspect terrible, Was wrought, with Fear and Flight encircled round : Depending from a silver belt it hung ; Book XL HOMER'S ILIAD. 361 And on the belt a dragon, wrought in bronze, 40 Twin'd his lithe folds, and turn'd on ev'ry side, Sprung from a single neck, his triple head. Then on his brow his lofty helm he plac'd, Four-crested, double-peak'd, with 'horsehair plumes, That nodded, fearful, from the warrior's head. 45 Then took two weighty lances, tipp'd with brass, Which fiercely flash'd against the face of Iieav'n : Pallas and Juno thund'ring from on high In honour of Mycenae's wealthy lord. Forthwith they order'd, each his charioteer, 50 To stay his car beside the ditch ; themselves, On foot, in arms accoutred, sallied forth, And loud, ere early dawn, the clamour rose. Advanc'd before the cars, they lin'd the ditch ; Follow'd the cars, a little space between : 55 But Jove with dire confusion fill'd their ranks, Who sent from Heav'n a show'r of blood-stain'd rain, In sign of many a warrior's coming doom, Soon to the viewless shades untimely sent. Meanwhile upon the slope, beneath the plain, 60 The Trojan chiefs were gather'd ; Hector's self, 362 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book XI. Polydamas, ./Eneas, as a God In rev'rence held ; Antenor's three brave sons, Agenor's godlike presence, Polybus, And, heav'nly fair, the youthful Acamas. 65 In front was seen the broad circumference Of Hector's shield : and as amid the clouds Shines forth the fiery dog-star, bright and clear, Anon beneath the cloudy veil conceal'd ; So now in front was Hector seen, and now 70 Pass'd to the rear, exhorting ; all in brass, His burnish'd arms like Jove's own lightning flash'd. As in the corn-land of some wealthy Lord The rival bands of reapers mow the swathe, Barley or wheat ; and fast the trusses fall ; 75 So Greeks and Trojans mow'd th' opposing ranks ; Nor these admitted thought of faint retreat, But still made even head ; while those, like wolves, Rush'd to the onset ; Discord, Goddess dire, Beheld, rejoicing ; of the heav'nly pow'rs 80 She only mingled with the combatants ; The others all were absent ; they, serene, Repos'd in gorgeous palaces, for each Book XI. HOMER'S ILIAD. 3G3 Amid Olympus' deep recesses built. Yet all the cloud-girt son of Saturn blam'd, 85 Who will'd the vict'ry to the arms of Troy. He heeded not their anger ; but withdrawn Apart from all, in pride of conscious strength, Survey'd the walls of Troy, the ships of Greece, The flash of arms, the slayers and the slain. 90 "While yet 'twas morn, and wax'd the youthful day, Thick flew the shafts, and fast the people fell On either side : but when the hour was come When woodmen, in the forest's deep recess, Prepare their food, and wearied with the toil 95 Of felling loftiest trees, with aching arms Turn with keen relish to their midday meal ; Then Grecian valour broke th' opposing ranks, As each along the line encourag'd each ; First sprang the monarch Agamemnon forth, 100 And brave Bienor slew, his people's guard ; And, with the chief, his friend and charioteer, Oileus ; he, down-leaping from the car, Stood forth defiant ; but between his brows The monarch's spear was thrust ; nor aught avail'd 105 364 HOMEE'S ILIAD. Book XL The brass-bound helm to stay the weapon's point ; Through helm and bone it pass'd, and all the brain "Was shatter'd ; forward as he rush'd, he fell. Them left he there, their bare breasts gleaming white, Stripp'd of their arms; and hasten'd in pursuit 110 Of Antiphus and Isus, Priam's sons, A bastard one, and one legitimate, Both on one car ; the bastard held the reins : Beside him stood the gallant Antiphus. Them, as they fed their flocks on Ida's heights, 115 Achilles once had captive made, and bound With willow saplings, till for ransom freed. The mighty monarch, Agamemnon, drove Through Isus' breast his spear ; his weighty sword Descended on the head of Antiphus 120 Beside the ear, and hurl'd him from his car ; These of their armour he despoil'd in haste, Known to him both ; for he had seen them oft Beside the ships, when thither captive brought From Ida by Achilles, swift of foot. 125 As when a lion in their lair hath seiz'd The helpless offspring of a mountain doe, Book XL HOMER'S ILIAD. 365 And breaks their bones with ease, and with strong teeth Crushes their tender life ; nor can their dam. Though close at hand she be, avail them aught ; 130 For she herself by deadly terror seiz'd, Through the thick coppice and the forest flies, Panting, and bath'd in sweat, the monster's rush ; So dar'd no Trojan give those brethren aid, Themselves in terror of the warlike Greeks. 135 Peisander next, and bold Hippolochus, Sons of Antimachus ('twas he who chief, Seduc'd by Paris' gold and splendid gifts, Advis'd the restitution to refuse Of Helen to her Lord), the King assail'd ; 140 Both on one car ; but from their hands had dropp'd The broider'd reins ; bewilder'd there they stood ; While, with a lion's bound, upon them sprang The son of Atreus ; suppliant, in the car, They clasp'd his knees ; " Give quarter, Atreus' son, Redeem our lives ; our sire Antimachus 146 Possesses goodly store of brass and gold, And well- wrought iron ; and of these he fain Would pay a noble, ransom, could he hear B06 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book XI. That in the Grecian ships we yet snrviv'd." 150 Thus they, with gentle words, and tears, imploring ; But all ungentle was the voice they heard In answer ; " If indeed ye be the sons Of that Antimachus, who counsel gave, When noble Menelaus came to Troy 155 With sage Ulysses, as ambassadors, To slay them both, nor suffer their return, Pay now the forfeit of your father's guilt." He said, and with a spear-thrust through his breast Peisander dash'd to earth ; backward he fell. 160 Down leap'd Ilippolochus ; but Atreus' son Severing his hands and neck, amid the throng Sent whirling like a bowl the gory head. These left he there ; and where the thickest throng Mamtain'd the tug of war, thither he flew, 165 And with him eager hosts of well-greav'd Greeks. Soon on the Trojans' flight enforc'd they hung, Destroying ; foot on foot, and horse on horse ; While from the plain thick clouds of dust arose P>eneath the armed hoofs of clatt'ring steeds ; 1T0 And on the monarch Agamemnon press'd, Book XL HOMER'S ILIAD. 367 Still slaying, urging still the Greeks to arms. As when amid a densely timber'd wood Light the devouring flames, by eddying winds Hither and thither borne, fast falls the copse 175 Prostrate beneath the fire's impetuous course ; So thickly fell the flying Trojans' heads Beneath the might of Agamemnon's arm ; And here and there, athwart the pass of war, Was many an empty car at random whiii'd 180 By strong-neck'd steeds, of guiding hands bereft ; Stretch'd on the plain they lay, more welcome sight To carrion birds than to their widow'd wives. But Hector, from the fray and din of war, And dust, and blood, and carnage, Jove withdrew. Still on Atrides press'd, the Greek pursuit 18G With eager shouts exciting ; past the tomb Of Ilus, ancient son of Dardanus, And toward the fig-tree, midway o'er the plain, Straining to gain the town, the Trojans fled ; 190 While loudly shouting, his unconquer'd hands With carnage dyed, Atrides urg'd their flight. But when the Scaean gates and oak were reach'd, 368 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book XI They made a stand, and fac'd the foe's assault. Some o'er the open plain were yet dispers'd ; 195 As heifers, by a lion scatter'd wide, At dead of night ; all fly ; on one descends The doom of death ; her with his pow'rful teeth He seizes, and, her neck first broken, rends, And on her entrails gorging, laps her blood. 200 So these the monarch Agamemnon chas'd, Slaying the hindmost ; they in terrpr fled : Some headlong, backward some, Atrides' hand Hurl'd from their chariot many a warrior bold ; So forward and so fierce he bore his spear. 205 But as he near'd the city, and stood beneath The lofty wall, the Sire of Gods and men From Heav'n descended ; on the topmost height Of Ida's spring-abounding hill he sat : And while his hand the lightning grasp'd, he thus 210 To golden-winged Iris gave command : " Haste thee, swift Iris, and to Hector bear From me this message ; bid him, that as long As Agamemnon in the van appears, Haging, and dealing death among the ranks, 215 Book XL HOMER'S ILIAD. 300 Ho from the battle keep himself aloof, But urge the rest undaunted to maintain The stubborn fight ; but should Atrides, struck By spear or arrow, to his car withdraw. He shall from me receive such pow'r to slay, 220 As to the ships shall bear him, ere the sun Decline, and Darkness spread her hallowing shade." Thus he ; to Troy, obedient to his word, From Ida's heights swift-footed Iris sped : Amid the horses and the well-fram'd cars 225 The godlike Hector, Priam's son, she found, And stood beside him, and address'd him thus : " Hector, thou son of Priam, sage as Jove In council, he the Universal Lord Sends thee by me this message ; that as long 230 As Agamemnon in the van appears, Paging, and dealing death amid the ranks, Thou from the battle keep thyself aloof, But uro-e the rest undaunted to maintain The stubborn fight ; but should Atrides, struck 235 By spear or arrow, to his car withdraw, Thou shalt from him receive such pow'r to slay VOL. I. 370 HOMEE'S ILIAD. Book XL As to the ships shall bear thee, ere the sun Decline, and Darkness spread her hallowing shade." Swift-footed Iris said, and disappear'd ; 240 But from his chariot Hector leap'd to earth, Hither and thither passing through the ranks, With brandish'd jav'lins urging to the fight. Loud, at his bidding, rose the battle-cry; Back roll'd the tide ; again they fac'd the Greeks : 245 On th' other side the Greeks their masses form'd, In line of battle rang'd ; opposed they stood ; And in the front, to none content to cede The foremost place, was Agamemnon seen. Say now, ye Nine, who on Olympus dwell, 250 Of all the Trojans and their fam'd Allies, Who first oppos'd to Agamemnon stood. Iphidamas, Antenor's gallant son, Stalwart and brave ; in fertile Thracia bred, Mother of flocks ; him, in his infant years, 255 His grandsire Cisseus, fair Theano's sire, In his own palace rear'd ; and when he reach'd The perfect measure of his glorious youth, Still in his house retain'd him, and to wife Book XI. HOMER'S ILIAD. 371 Gave him his daughter ; but when tidings came 260 Of Grecian warfare, from the marriage straight Embarking, with twelve beaked ships he sailed, That owned his sway ; these on Percote's shore He left ; and came himself on foot to Troy ; Who now confronted Atreus' godlike son. 265 "When near they drew, Atrides miss'd his aim, His spear diverging ; then Iphidamas Beneath the breastplate, striking on his belt, Strove with strong hand to drive the weapon home : Yet could not pierce the belt's close-plaited work ; 270 The point, eucounter'd by the silver fold, "Was bent, like lead ; then 'with his pow'rful hand The monarch Agamemnon seiz'd the spear, And tow'rd him drew, and with a lion's strength Wrench'd from his foeman's grasp ; then on his neck Let fall his sword, and slack'd his limbs in death. 276 There, falling in his country's cause, he slept The iron sleep of death ; unhappy he, Far from his virgin-bride, yet unpossess'd, Though bought with costly presents ; first he gave 280 A hundred steers ; and promis'd thousands more 372 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book XL Of slieep and goats from out his countless flocks. Him Agamemnon of his arms despoil'd, And to the crowd of Greeks the trophies bore. But -when Antenor's eldest-born beheld, 285 Coon, th' observ'd of all men, bitt'rest grief His eyes o'ershadow'd, for his brother's fate ; And, unperceiv'd by Atreus' godlike sou, Standing aside, he struck him with his spear, Through the mid arm, beneath the elbow's bend ; 290 And drove right through the weapon's glitt'ring point. Writh'd with the pain the mighty King of men ; Yet from the combat flinch'd he not, nor quail'd : But grasping firm his weather-toughen'd spear On Coon rush'd, as by the feet he drew 295 His father's son, Iphidamas, away, Invoking all the bravest to his aid ; And as he drew the body tow'rd the crowd, Beneath the bossy shield the monarch thrust His brass-clad spear, and slack'd his limbs in death ; Then near approaching, ev'n upon the corpse 301 Of dead Iphidamas, struck off his head : So by Atrides' hand, Antenor's sons, Book Xl. HOMEE'S ILIAD. 373 Their doom accomplisli'd, to the shades were sent. Then through the crowded ranks, with spear and sword, And massive stones, he held his furious course, 306 While the hot blood was welling from his arm ; But when the wound was dry, and stanch'd the blood, Keen anguish then Atrides' might subdued. As when a woman in her labour-throes 310 Sharp pangs encompass, by Lucina sent, Who rules o'er child-birth travail, ev'n so keen The pangs that then Atrides' might subdued. Mounting his car he bade his charioteer Drive to the ships ; for sore his spirit was pain'd ; 315 But loud and clear he shouted to the Greeks : " O friends, the chiefs and councillors of Greece, Yours be it now our sea-borne ships to guard : Since Jove, the Lord of counsel, through the day Wills not that I the battle should maintain." 320 He said : and swiftly to the ships were driv'n His sleek-skinn'd coursers ; nothing loth they flew ; With foam their chests were fleck'd, with dust their flanks, As from the field their wounded Lord they bore : 374 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book XI But Hector, as lie saw the King retire, 325 To Trojans and to Lycians call'd aloud : " Trojans and Lycians, and ye Dardans fam'd In close encounter, quit ye now like men ; Put forth your wonted valour ; from the field Their bravest has withdrawn, and Jove on me 33C Great glory hath shed ; now headlong on the Greeks Urge your swift steeds, and endless honour gain." His words fresh courage rous'd in ev'ry breast : And as a hunter cheers his sharp-fang' d hounds On forest boar or lion ; on the Greeks 335 So cheer'd the valiant Trojans Priam's son, Illustrious Hector, stern as blood-stain'd Mars. Bent on high deeds, himself in front advane'd, Fell on the masses as a whirlwind falls, Lashing with furious sweep the dark-blue sea. 340 Say then, who first, who last, by Hector's hand, Whom Jove had will'd to crown with honour, died. Assseus first, and then Autonous, Opites, and Opheltius, Dolops, son Of Clytus, and iEsumnus, Agelas 345 And Orus, and brave Hipponous ; Book XI HOMEE'S ILIAD. 375 All these the chiefs of Greece ; the nameless crowd He scatter'd next ; as when the west wind drives The clouds, and battles with the hurricane, Before the clearing blast of Notus driv'n ; 350 The big waves heave and roll, and high aloft, The gale, careering, flings the ocean spray ; So thick and furious fell on hostile heads The might of Hector. Now had fearful deeds Been done, and Greeks beside their ships had fall'n In shameful rout, had not Ulysses thus 356 To Diomed, the son of Tydeus, call'd : " Why, son of Tydeus, should we thus relax Our warlike courage ? come, stand by me now, True friend ! if Hector of the glancing helm 360 Our ships should capture, great were our disgrace." Whom answer'd thus the valiant Diomed : " Beside thee will I stand, and still endure ; But brief will be the term of our success, Since Jove, the Cloud-compeller, not to us, 365 But to the Trojans, wills the victory." He said, and from his car Thymbrseus hurl'd, Through the left breast transfix'd : Ulysses' hand 376 HOMEE'S ILIAD. Book XI His charioteer, the brave Molion, slew. These left they there, no more to share the fight ; 37C Then turning, spread confusion 'mid the crowd : As turn two boars upon the hunter's pack With desp'rate courage, turning so to bay, Those two, the Trojans scatt'ring, gave the Greeks, From Hector flying, time again to breathe. 375 A car they seiz'd which bore two valiant chiefs, Sons of Percotian Merops ; he, o'er all In lore prophetic skill'd, would fain at home Have kept them from the life-destroying war : But they, by adverse fate impell'd to seek 380 Their doom of death, his warning voice despis'd. These two, of strength and life at once bereft, The son of Tydeus, valiant Diomed, Stripp'd of their armour ; while Ulysses slew Hippodamus,and bold Hyperochus. 385 Thus Jove, from Ida's height beholding, held His even scale, each party slaught'ring each. Then with his spear Tydides through the loins Agastrophus, the son of Pseon, smote ; No car had he at hand, whereto to fly : 390 Book XL HOMER'S ILIAD. 377 But, ill-advis'd, had in tli' attendants' charge His horses left far off ; while he himself Rush'd 'mid the throng on foot, and met his doom. Hector's quick glance athwart the files beheld, And to the rescue, with a shout, he sprang, 395 The Trojan columns following ; not unmov'd The valiant Diomed his coming saw, And thus bespoke Ulysses at his side : " On us this plague, this mighty Hector, falls : Yet stand we firm, and boldly meet the shock." 400 He said, and, poising, hurl'd his pond'rous spear, And not in vain ; on Hector's head it struck His helmet's crest, but, brass encountering brass, Himself it reach'd not ; for the visor'd helm, Apollo's gift, three-plated, stay'cl its force. 405 Yet backward Hector sprang amid the crowd, And on his knees he dropp'd, his stalwart hand Propp'd on the ground ; while darkness veil'd his eyes. But ere Tydides, following up his spear, Attain'd from far the spot whereon he fell, 410 Hector reviv'd, and mounting quick his car, Drove 'mid the crowd, and 'scap'd the doom of death. 378 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book XL Then thus, with threat'ning spear, Tyclides cried : " Yet once again, vile liound, hast thou escap'd ; Thy doom was nigh ; hut thee thy God hath sav'd, 415 Phoebus, to whom, amid the clash of spears, Well mayst thou pray ! We yet shall meet again ; When I shall end thee, if a guardian God I too may claim ; meanwhile from thee I turn, And others seek on whom my hap may light." 420 He said, and turn'd him of his arms to strip The son of Paeon ; but beside the stone That mark'd where men of old had rais'd a mound To Ilus, Dardan's son, the ancient chief, There crouching, Paris, fair-hair'd Helen's Lord, 425 Against the son of Tydeus bent his bow. He from the breast of brave Agastrophus Had stripp'd the corslet ; from his shoulders broad The buckler, and the helmet from his head, When Paris bent his bow, and not in vain 430 His arrow launch'd ; Tydides' dexter foot Right through it pierc'd, and pinn'd it to the ground. Joyous he laugh'd, and from his hiding place Sprang forth, and thus in tones of triumph cri^d : Book XL HOMER'S ILIAD. 379 " Tliou hast it ! not in vain my shaft hatli flown ! 435 Would that, deep buried in thy flank, it touch'd Thy very life ! so should our Trojans lose Their panic fear, who now on thee with dread, As bleating goats upon a lion, look." To whom, unmov'd, the valiant Diomed : 440 " Poor archer, trusting to thy bow alone, Yile sland'rer and seducer ! if indeed Thou durst in arms oppos'd to me to stand, Nought would avail thy arrows and thy bow : And now, because thy shaft hath graz'd my foot, 445 Thou mak'st thine empty boast : I heed thee not, More than a woman or a puny child : A worthless coward's weapon hath no point. 'Tis diff 'rent far with me ! though light it fall, My spear is sharp, and whom it strikes, it slays. 450 His widow's cheeks are mark'd with scars of grief, His children orphans ; rotting on the ground, Red with his blood, he lies, his fun'ral rites By carrion birds, and not by women paid." Thus while he spoke, Ulysses, spearman bold, 455 Drew near, and stood before him : he, behind, 3S0 HOMEE'S ILIAD. Book XI. Sat down protected, and from out Iris foot The arrow drew ; whereat sharp anguish shot Through all his flesh ; and mounting on his car He bade his faithful charioteer in haste 460 Drive to the ships, for pain weigh'd down his soul. Alone Ulysses stood ; of all the Greeks Not one beside him ; all were panic-struck : Then with his spirit, perturb'd, he commun'd thus : " Me miserable ! which way shall I choose ? 465 'Twere ill indeed that I should turn to flight By hostile numbers daunted ; yet 'twere worse Here to be caught alone ; and Saturn's son With panic fear the other Greeks hath fill'd. Yet why, my soul, admit such, thoughts as these ? 470 I know that cowards from the battle fly ; But lie who boasts a warrior's name, must learn, Wounded or wounding, firmly still to stand." While in his mind and spirit thus he mus'd, Onward the buckler'd ranks of Trojans came, 475 And, to their harm, encircled him around. As when a boar, by clogs and stalwart youths Attack'd, the shelt'ring thicket leaves, and whets Book XL HOMER'S ILIAD. 3S1 The tusks that gleam between his curved jaws ; They crowd around, though ring his clatt'ring tusks, And, fearful though it be, await his rush : 481. So crowded round Ulysses, dear to Jove, The Trojans ; he, with brandish.' d spear aloft, Sprang forth, and through the shoulder, from above, Deiopites wounded : Thoon next 485 He slew, and Ennomus ; then with his spear Chersidamas, in act to quit his car, Thrust through the loins below his bossy shield : Prone in the dust, he clutch'd the blood-stain'd soil. From these he turn'd ; and wounded with his spear Charops, the high-born Socus' brother, son 491 Of Hippasus ; then forward sprang, to aid His brother, godlike Socus ; close he stood Before Ulysses, and address'd him thus : " Far-fam'd Ulysses, as in arms, in Aviles 495 Unwearied, thou this day o'er both the sons Of Hippasus, two mighty warriors slain, And of their armour spoil'd, shalt make thy boast, Or by my spear thyself shalt lose thy life." He said, and on the shield's broad circle struck : 500 382 HOMEE'S ILIAD. Book XI Through the bright shield the sturdy weapon drove, And through the rich- wrought baldrick, from the ribs Tearing the flesh away ; but Pallas seiz'd, And turn'd it from the vital parts aside. The wound, Ulysses knew, was not to death, 505 And back he drew, and thus to Socus cried : " Ill-fated thou ! thy doom hath found thee now ; Me hast thou hinder' d from the war awhile ; But thee to swift destruction and dark death. This day I doom : great glory, of thee subdued, 510 Shall I obtain, and Hades take thy soul." Tims he : and Socus, turning, sought to fly ; But as he turn'd him round, Ulysses' spear Behind his neck, between the shoulder blades Was driv'n, and through his chest ; thund'ring he fell, And o'er his fall Ulysses, vaunting, thus : 516 " Socus, thou son of warlike Hippasus, Here hast thou found, nor couldst escape, thy doom. Ill-fated thou ! nor sire's nor mother's hand Shall gather up thy bones, but carrion birds 520 O'er thee shall flap their baleful wings, and tear Thy mangled flesh ; for me, whene'er I die Book XL HOMER'S ILIAD. 383 The sons of Greece will build my fun'ral pile." From out his flesh, and from the bossy shield, The spear of Socus, as he spoke, he drew ; 525 And as he drew it forth, out gush'd his blood, With anguish keen. The Trojans, when they saw Ulysses' blood, with clam'rous shouts advanc'd Promiscuous ; he, retiring, shouted loud To call his comrades ; loud as head of man 530 Could bear, he shouted thrice ; and thrice his shout The warlike Menelaus heard, and thus To Ajax, standing by his side, he spoke : " Ajax, thou Heav'n-born son of Telamon, Great chief of men, methinks I hear the voice 535 Of stout Ulysses, as though left alone, And in the stubborn fight cut off from aid, By Trojans overmaster'd. Haste we then, For so 'twere best, to give him present aid. Brave though he be, yet left alone, I fear 540 Great cause we Greeks may have to mourn his loss." He spoke, and led the way ; the godlike chief Follow'd his steps : Ulysses, dear to Jove, Surrounded by the Trojan host they found, 384 HOMEK'S ILIAD. Book XL As hungry jackals on the mountain side 545 Around a stag, that from an -archer's hand Hath taken hurt, yet while his blood was warm And limbs yet serv'd, has baffled his pursuit ; Cut when the fatal shaft has drain'd his strength, Thirsting for blood, beneath the forest shade, 550 The jackals seize their victim ; then if chance A hungry lion pass, the jackals shrink In terror back, while he devours the prey ; So round Ulysses, sage in council, press'd The Trojans, many and brave, yet nobly he 555 Averted, spear in hand, the fatal hour ; Till, with his tow'r-like shield before him borne, Appear'd great Ajax, and beside him stood. Hither and thither then the Trojans fled ; While with supporting arm from out the crowd 560 The warlike Menelaus led him forth, Till his attendant with his car drew near. Then Ajax, on the Trojans springing, slew Doryclus, royal Priam's bastard son ; Next Pyrasus he smote, and Pandocus, 565 Lysander, and Pylartes ; as a stream, book XI. HOMER'S ILIAD. 385 SwoU'n by the rains of Heav'n, that from the hills Pours down its wintry torrent on the plain ; And many a blighted oak, and many a pine It bears, with piles of drift-wood, to the sea ■ 570 So swept illustrious Ajax o'er the plain, O'erthrowing men and horses ; though unknown To Hector ; he, upon Scamander's banks "Was warring on the field's extremest left, Where round great Nestor and the warlike King 575 Idomeneus, while men were falling fast, Rose, irrepressible, the battle cry. Hector, 'mid these, was working wondrous deeds, With spear and car, routing th' opposed youth ; Yet had the Greeks ev'n so their ground maintain'd, But godlike Paris, fair-hair'd Helen's Lord, 581 Through the right shoulder, with a three-barb'd shaft, As in the front he fought, Machaon quell'd : For him the warrior Greeks were sore afraid Lest he, as back the line of battle roll'd, 585 Might to the foe be left ; to Nestor then Idomeneus address'd his speech, and said : " Nestor, son of Neleus, pride of Greece, 2a VOL. T. 380 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book XI. Haste thee to mount thy car, and with thee take Machaon ; tow'rd the vessels urge with speed 590 The flying steeds ; worth many a life is his, The skilful leech, who knows, with practis'd hand, T' extract the shaft, and healing drugs apply." He said : Gerenian Nestor at the word Mounted his car, Machaon at his side, 595 The skilful leech, sage iEsculapius' son : He touch'd his horses ; tow'rd the Grecian ships, As was his purpose, nothing loth, they flew. To Hector then Cebriones, who saw Confus'd the Trojans' right, drew near, and said : 600 " Hector, we here, on th' outskirts of the field, O'erpow'r the Greeks ; on th' other side, our friends In strange confusion mingled, horse and man, Are driv'n ; among them Ajax spreads dismay, The son of Telamon ; I know him well, 605 And the broad shield that o'er his shoulders hangs ; Thither direct we then our car, where most In mutual slaughter horse and foot engage, And loudest swells, uncheck'd, the battle cry." He said, and with the pliant lash he touch'd 610 Book XL HOIEE'S ILIAD. 3S7 The sleek-skinn'd horses ; springing at the sound, Between the Greeks and Trojans, light they "bore The flying car, o'er bodies of the slain And broken bucklers trampling ; all beneath Was plash'd with blood the axle, and the rails 615 Around the car, as from the horses' feet, And from the felloes of the wheels, were thrown The bloody gouts ; yet on he sped, to join The strife of men, and break th' opposing ranks. His coming spread confusion 'mid the Greeks, 620 His spear awhile withheld ; then through the rest, "With sword, and spear, andpond'rous stones he rush'd, But shunn'd the might of Ajax Telamon. But Jove, high thron'd, the soul of Ajax fill'd With fear ; aghast he stood ; his sev'nfold shield 625 He threw behind his back, and, trembling, gaz'd Upon the crowd ; then, like some beast of prey, Foot slowly following foot, reluctant turn'd. As when the rustic youths and dogs have driv'n A tawny lion from the cattle fold, 630 Watching all night, and baulk'd him of his prey ; Bav'ning for flesh, he still th' attempt renews, 388 HOMEE'S ILIAD. Book XI But still in vain : for many a jav'lin, lrarl'd By vig'rous arms, confronts him to his face, And blazing faggots, that his courage daunt ; C35 Till, with the dawn, reluctant he retreat : So from before the Trojans Ajax turn'd, Reluctant, fearing for the ships of Greece. As near a field of corn, a stubborn ass, Upon whose sides had many a club been broke, 640 O'erpow'rs his boyish guides, and ent'ring in, On the rich forage grazes ; while the boys Their cudgels ply, but vain their puny strength, Yet drive him out, when fully fed, with ease : Ev'n so great Ajax, son of Telamon, 645 The valiant Trojans and their fam'd Allies, Still thrusting at his shield, before them drove : Yet would he sometimes, rallying, hold in check The Trojan host ; then turn again to flight, Yet barring still the passage to the ships. 650 Midway between the Trojans and the Greeks He stood defiant ; many jav'lins, hurl'd By vig'rous arms, were in their flight receiv'd On his broad shield ; and many, ere they reach'd Book XL HOMEE'S ILIAD. 389 Their living mark, fell midway on the plain, 655 Fix'd in the ground, in vain athirst for blood. Him thus, hard press'd by thick-thrown spears, beheld Eurypylus, Eusemon's noble son. He hasten'd up, and aim'd his glitt'ring spear ; And Apisaon, Phausias' noble son, 660 Below the midriff through the liver struck, And straight relax'd in sudden death his limbs. Forth sprang Eurypylus to seize the spoils : But godlike Paris saw, and as he stoop'd From Apisaon's corpse to strip his arms, 665 Against Eurypylus he bent his bow, And his right thigh transfixed ; the injur'd limb Disabling, in the wound the arrow broke. He 'mid his friends, escaping death, withdrew, And to the Greeks with piercing shout he call'd : 670 " O Mends, the chiefs and councillors of Greece, Turn yet again, and from the doom of death Great Ajax save, hard press'd by hostile spears : Scarce can I hope he may escape with life The desp'rate fight ; yet bravely stand, and aid 675 The mighty Ajax, son of Telamou = " 390 HOMEE'S ILIAD. Book XL Thus spoke the wounded hero : round him they "With sloping shields and spears uplifted stood : Ajax to meet them came ; and when he reach'd The friendly ranks, again he turn'd to hay. 6S0 So rag'd, like blazing fire, the furious fight. Meanwhile the mares of Neleus, drench' d with sweat, Bore Nestor and Machaon from the field ; Achilles saw, and mark'd them where he stood Upon his lofty vessel's prow, and watch'd 685 The grievous toil, the lamentable rout. Then on his friend Patroclus from the ship He call'd aloud ; he heard his voice, and forth, As Mars majestic, from the tent he came: (That day commenc'd his evil destiny) G90 And thus Mencetius' noble son began : "Why call'st thoume? whatwouldst thou, Peleus'son V } To whom Achilles, swift of foot, replied : " Son of Mencetius, dearest to my soul, Soon must the suppliant Greeks before me kneel, 695 So insupportable is now their need. But haste thee now, Patroclus, dear to Jove : Enquire of ISTestor, from the battle field book XI. HOMER'S ILIAD. 391 Whom brings lie wounded ; looking from beliind Most like he seem'd to iEsculapius' son, 700 Machaon ; but his face I could not see, So swiftly past the eager horses new." He said : obedient to his friend's command, Quick to the tents and ships Patroclus ran. They, when they reach'd the tent of Neleus' son, 705 Descended to the ground ; Eurymedon The old man's mares unharness'd from the car, While on the beach they fac'd the cooling breeze, Which from their garments dried the sweat ; then turn'd, And in the tent on easy seats repos'd. 710 For them the fair-hair'd Hecamede mix'd A cordial potion ; her from Tenedos, When by Achilles ta'en, the old man brought ; Daughter of great Arsinous, whom the Greeks On him, their sagest councillor, bestow'd. 715 Before them first a table fair she spread, Well polish'd, and with feet of solid bronze ; On this a brazen canister she plac'd, f And onions, as a relish to the wine, 392 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book XL And pale clear honey, and pure barley meal : 720 By these a splendid goblet, which from home Th' old man had brought, with golden studs adorn'd : Four were its handles, and round each two doves Appear'd to feed ; at either end, a cup. Scarce might another move it from the board, 725 "When full ; but aged Nestor rais'd with ease. In this, their goddess-like attendant first A gen'rous measure mix'd of Pramnian wine : Then with a brazen grater shredded o'er The goatsmilk cheese, and whitest barley meal, 730 And of the draught compounded bade them drink. They drank, and then, reliev'd the parching thirst, With mutual converse entertain'd the hour. Before the gate divine Patroclus stood : The old man saw, and from his seat arose, 735 And took him by the hand. and led him in, And bade him sit ; but he, refusing, said : " ISTo seat for me, thou venerable sire ! I must not stay ; for he both awe and fear Commands, who hither sent me to enquire 740 "What wounded man thou hast ; I need not ask, Book XL HOMER'S ILIAD. 393 I know Machaon well, his people's guard. My errand done, I must my message bear Back to Achilles ; and thou know'st thyself, Thou venerable sire, how stern his mood : 745 Nay sometimes blames he, where no blame is due " To whom Gerenian JSTestor thus replied : " Whence comes Achilles' pity for the Greeks By Trojan weapons wounded ? knows he not What depth of suff 'ring through the camp prevails % How in the ships, by arrow or by spear 751 Sore wounded, all our best and bravest lie ? The valiant son of Tydeus, Diomed, Pierc'd by a shaft ; Ulysses by a spear, And Agamemnon's self; Eurypylus 755 By a sharp arrow through the thigh transfix'd ; And here another, whom but now I bring, Shot by a bow, from off the battle field : Achilles, valiant as he is, the while For Grecian woes nor care nor pity feels. Waits he, until our ships beside the sea, In our despite, are burnt by hostile fires, And we be singly slain ? not mine is now 7G0 394 HOMEK'S ILIAD. Book XI. The strength. I boasted once of active limbs, that such youth and vigour yet were mine, 765 As when about a cattle-lifting raid "We fought th' Eleans ; there Itymoneus 1 slew, the son of brave Hyperochus, Who dwelt in Elis ; and my booty drove. He sought to guard the herd ; but from my hand 770 A jav'lin struck him in the foremost ranks : He fell, and terror seiz'd the rustic crowd. Abundant store of plunder from the plain We drove : of horned cattle fifty herds ; As many flocks of sheep, as many droves 775 Of swine, as many wide-spread herds of goats, And thrice so many golden-chesnut mares, The foals of many running with their dams. To Pylos, Neleus' city, these we drove By night ; and much it gladden'd Neleus' heart, 780 That I, though new to war, such prize had won. When morn appear'd, the clear-voic'd heralds call'd For all to whom from Elis debts were due ; Collected thus, the Pylians' leading men Division made : for Elis ow'd us much ; 785 Book XL HOMER'S ILIAD. 395 Such wrongs we few in Pylos had sustain'd. The might of Hercules in former years Had storm'd our town, and all our bravest slain. Twelve gallant sons had Keleus ; I of these Alone was left ; the others all were gone. 790 Whence over-proud, th' Epeians treated us With insult, and high-handed violence. A herd of oxen now, and num'rous flock Of sheep, th' old man selected for himself, Three hundred, with their shepherds ; for to him 795 Large compensation was from Elis due. Train'd to the course, four horses, with their cars, He for the Tripod at th' Elean games Had sent to run ; these Augeas, King of men, Detain'd, and bade the drivers home return, 800 Bootless, and grieving for their horses' loss. Th' old man his words resenting, and his acts, Large spoils retain' d ; the rest among the crowd He shar'd, that none might lose his portion due. These we dispos'd of soon, and to the Gocls 805 Due off 'rings made ; but when the third day rose, Back in all haste, in numbers, horse and foot, 396 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book XL Our foes return' d ; with them the Molion twins, Yet boys, mitutor'd in the arts of war. Far off, by Alpheus' banks, th' extremest verge 810 Of sandy Pylos, is a lofty mound, The city of Thryum ; which around, intent To raze its walls, their army was encamp'd. The plain already they had overspread ; "When Pallas from Olympus' heights came down 815 In haste, and bade us all prepare for war. On no unwilling ears her message fell, But eager all for light ; but me, to arm ISTeleus forbade, and e'en my horses hid, Deeming me yet unripe for deeds of war. 820 Yet so, albeit on foot, by Pallas' grace A name I gain'd above our noblest horse. There is a river, Minyis by name, Hard by Arene, flowing to the sea, "Where we, the Pylian horse, expecting morn, 825 Encamp'd, by troops of footmen quickly join'd. Thence in all haste advancing, all in arms, We reach'd, by midday, Alpheus' sacred stream. There, to o'erruling Jove our off 'rings made, Book XI. HOMEE'S ILIAD. 397 To Alpheus and to Neptune each a bull, 830 To Pallas, blue-ey'd Maid, a heifer fair, In order'd ranks we took our ev'ning meal, And each in arms upon the river's brink Lay down to rest ; for close beside us lay Th' Epeians, on the town's destruction bent. 835 Then saw they mighty deeds of war display'd ; For we, as sunlight overspread the earth, To Jove and Pallas praying, battle gave. But when the Pylians and th' Epeians met, I first a warrior slew, and seiz'd his car, 840 Bold spearman, Mulius ; Augeas' son-in-law, His eldest daughter's husband, Agamede, The yellow-hair'd, who all the virtues knew Of each medicinal herb the wide world grows. Him, with my brass-tipp'd spear, as on he came, 845 I slew ; he fell ; I, rushing to his car, Stood 'mid the foremost ranks ; th' Epeians brave Fled diverse, when they saw their champion fall, Chief of their horsemen, foremost in the fight. "With the dark whirlwind's force,! onward rush'd, 850 And fifty cars I took ; two men in each 398 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book XI Fell to my spear, and bit the bloody dust. Then Actor's sons, the Molions, had I slain, Had not tli' Earth-shaking God, their mighty sire, Veil'd in thick cloud, withdrawn them from the field ; Then Jove great glory to the Pylians gave. 856 For o'er the wide-spread plain we held pursuit, Slaying, and gath'ring up the scatter'd arms, Nor till corn-clad Buprasium, and the rock Olenian, and Alesium, term'd the Mound, 860 Stay'd we our steeds ; there Pallas bade us turn. There the last man I slew, and left ; the Greeks Back from Buprasium drove their flying cars To Pylos, magnifying all the name, 'Mid men, of Nestor, as 'mid Gods, of Jove. 865 Such once was I 'mid men, while yet I was ; Now to himself alone Achilles keeps His valour ; yet hereafter, when the Greeks Have perish'd all, remorse shall touch his soul. Dear friend, remember now th' injunctions giv'n 870 By old Mencetius, when from Phthian land He sent thee forth to Agamemnon's aid : I, and Laertes' godlike son, within, Book XI. HOMEK'S ILIAD. 399 Heard all his counsel ; to the well-built house Of Peleus we on embassy had come, 875 Throughout Achaia's fertile lands to raise The means of war ; Menoetius there we found, Achilles, and thyself within the house ; While in the court-yard aged Peleus slew, And to the Lord of thunder offer' d up 880 A fatten'd steer ; and from a golden bowl O'er the burnt-off 'ring pour'd the ruddy wine. We two, while ye were busied with the flesh, Stood at the gate ; surpris'd, Achilles rose. And took us by the hand, and bade us sit, 885 Dispensing all the hospitable rites. With food and wine recruited, I began My speech, and urg'd ye both to join the war : Kor were ye loth to go ; much sage advice Your elders gave ; old Peleus bade his son 890 To aim at highest honours, and surpass His comrades all ; Menoetius, Actor's son, To thee this counsel gave : ' My son,' he said, ' Achilles is by birth above thee far ; Thou art in years the elder ; he in strength 895 400 HOMEE'S ILIAD. Book XI Surpasses thee ; do thou with prudent words And timely speech address him, and advise And guide him ; he will, to his good, obey.' ' Such were the old man's words ; but thou hast let His counsel slip thy mem'ry ; yet ev'n now 900 Speak to Achilles thus, and stir his soul, If haply he will hear thee ; and who knows But by the grace of Heav'n thou mayst prevail ? For great is oft a friend's persuasive pow'r. But if the fear of evil prophesied, 905 Or message by his Goddess-mother brought From Jove, restrain him, let him send thee forth "With all his force of warlike Myrmidons, That thou mayst be the saving light of Greece. Then let him bid thee to the battle bear 910 His glitt'ring arms ; if so the men of Troy, Scar'd by his likeness, may forsake the field, And breathing-time afford the sons of Greece, Toil-worn ; for little pause has yet been theirs. Fresh and unwearied, ye with ease may drive 915 To their own city, from our ships and tents, The Trojans, worn and battle-wearied men." Book XL HOMER'S ILIAD. 401 Thus lie ; Patroclus' spirit within him burn'd, And tow'rd Achilles' tent in haste he sped. But, running, as Ulysses' ship he pass'd, 920 Where was the Council and the Justice-seat, And where were "built the altars of the Gods, There met him, halting from the battle-field, Shot through the thigh, Eusemon's Heav'n-born son, Eurypylus ; his head and shoulders dank 925 With clammy sweat, while from his grievous wound Stream'd the dark blood ; yet firm was still his soul. Menoetius' noble son with pity saw, And deeply sorrowing thus address'd the chief : " Woe for the chiefs and councillors of Greece ! 930 And must ye, far from friends and native home, Glut with your flesh the rav'ning dogs of Troy ? Yet tell me this, Heav'n-born Eurypylus : Still do the Greeks 'gainst Hector's giant force Make head ? or fall they, vanquish'd by his spear ?" To whom with prudent s£>eech, Eurypylus : 930 " JSTo source, Heav'n-born Patroclus, have the Greeks, Of aid, but all must perish by their ships : For in the ships lie all our bravest late, VOL. i. 2B 402 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book XI. By spear or arrow struck, by Trojan hands ; 940 And fiercer, hour by hour, their onset grows. But save me now, and lead me to the ships ; There cut the arrow out, and from the wound With tepid water cleanse the clotted blood : Then soothing drugs apply, of healing pow'r, 945 "Which from Achilles, thou, 'tis said, hast learn'd, From Chiron, justest of the Centaurs, he. For Podalirius and Machaon both, Our leeches, one lies wounded in the tents, Himself requiring sore the leech's aid ; 950 The other on the plain still dares the fight." To whom again Menostius' noble son : " How may this be ? say, brave Eurypylus, What must I do ? a messenger am I, Sent by Gerenian Nestor, prop of Greece, 955 With tidings to Achilles ; yet ev'n so I will not leave thee in this weary plight." He said, and passing his supporting hand Beneath his breast, the wounded warrior led Within the tent ; th' attendant saw, and spread 960 The ox-hide couch ; then as he lay reclin'd, Book XL HOMER'S ILIAD. 403 Patroclus, with his dagger, from the thigh Cut out the biting shaft ; and from the wound "With tepid water cleans'd the clotted blood ; Then, pounded in his hands, a root applied 965 Astringent, anodyne, which all his pain Allay'd ; the wound was dried, and stanch'd the blood. ARGUMENT. THE BATTLE AT THE GEECIAN WALL. The Greeks naving retired into their entrenchments, Hector attempts to force them ; hut it proving impossible to pass the ditch, Poly- damas advises to quit their chariots, and manage the attack on foot. The Trojans follow his counsel, and having divided their army into five bodies of foot, begin the assault. But upon the signal of an eagle with a serpent in his talons, which appeared on the left hand of the Trojans, Polydamas endeavours to withdraw them again. This Hector opposes, and continues the attack ; in which, after many actions, Sarpedon makes the first breach in the wall : Hector also, casting a stone of a vast size, forces open one of the gates, and enters at the head of his troops, who victoriously pursue the Grecians even to their ships. Book XII. HOMER'S ILIAD. 407 BOOK XII. nnHUS o'er the wounded chief Emypylus Watch'd in his tent Menoetius' noble son ; But hand to hand the Greeks and Trojans fought ; Nor longer might the ditch th' assault repel, Nor the broad wall above, which Greets had built, 5 To guard their ships, and round it dug the ditch ; But to the Gods no hecatombs had paid, That they the ships and all the stores within Might safely keep ; against the will of Heav'n The work was done, and thence not long endur'd. 10 While Hector liv'd, and Peleus' son his wrath Eetain'd, and Priam's city untaken stood ; So long the Grecian wall remain'd entire : But of the Trojans when the best had fall'n, Of Greeks, when some were slain, some yet survivd ; When the tenth year had seen the fall of Troy, 16 And Greeks, embark'd,had ta'en their homeward way, 408 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book xn. Then Neptune and Apollo counsel took To sap the wall by aid of all the streams That seaward from the heights of Ida flow ; 20 Rhesus, Caresus, and Heptaporus, Granicus, and iEsepus, Rhodiusj Scamander's stream divine, and Simois, Where helms and shields lay buried in the sand, And a whole race of warrior demigods : 25 These all Apollo to one channel turn'd ; Nine days against the wall the torrent beat ; And Jove sent rain continuous, that the wall Might sooner be submerg'd ; while Neptune's self, His trident in his hand, led on the stream, 30 "Washing away the deep foundations, laid, Laborious, by the Greeks, with logs and stones, Now by fast-flowing Hellespont dispers'd. The wall destroy'd, o'er all the shore he spread A sandy drift ; and bade the streams return 35 To where of old their silver waters flow'd. Such were, in future days, to be the works Of Neptune and Apollo ; but meanwhile; Fierce rag'd the battle round the firm-built wall, Hook XII. HOMER'S ILIAD •M!» And frequent clatter'd on the turrets' beams 40 The hostile missiles : by the scourge of Jove Subdued, the Greeks beside their ships were hemm'd, By Hector scar'd, fell minister of Dread, Who with the whirlwind's force, as ever, fouu'ht. As when, by dogs and hunters circled round, 45 A boar, or lion, in his pride of strength, Turns on his foes, while they in close array Stand opposite, and frequent shoot their darts ; Nor yet his spirit quails, but firm he stands "With suicidal courage ; swift he turns, 50 Where best to break the circling ranks ; where'er He makes his rush, the circling ranks give way : So Hector, here and there, amid the crowd, Urg'd his companions on to cross the ditch : The fiery steeds shrank back, and, snorting, stood 55 Upon the topmost brink ; for the wide ditch Withheld them, easy nor to leap nor cross : For steep arose on either side the banks, And at the top with sharpen'd stakes were crown'd, Thick-set and strong, which there the sons of Greece Had planted, to repel th' invading foes. Gl 410 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book XII. Scarce might a horse, with well-wheel' d car attach'd, Essay the passage ; but on foot they burn'd To make th' attempt ; and thus Polydamas, Approaching near, to valiant Hector spoke : 65 " Hector, and all ye other chiefs of Troy, And brave Allies, in vain we seek to drive Our horses o'er the ditch ; 'tis hard to cross ; 'Tis crown'd with pointed stakes, and them behind Is built the Grecian wall ; there to descend TO And from our cars in narrow space to fight Were certain ruin. If it be indeed The will of Jove, high-thund'ring, to confound The Greeks in utter rout, and us to aid, I should rejoice that ev'ry Greek forthwith 75 Far from his home should fill a nameless grave ; But should they turn, and we again be driv'n Back from the ships, and hurried down the ditch, Such were our loss, that scarce a messenger Would live to bear the tidings to the town 80 Of our destruction by the rallied Greeks. Hear then my counsel ; let us all agree With our attendants here upon the bank Book XII. HOMER'S ILIAD. 411 To leave our horses ; and ourselves on foot. All arm'd, press on where Hector leads ; the Greel If that their doom be nigh, will make no stand." 86 Thus spoke Polydamas ; his counsel pleas'd ; And Hector sprang, in arms, from off his car ; Nor long, the noble Hector when they saw, Delay'd the other chiefs ; then gave command 90 Each to his own attendant, by the ditch To keep the chariots all in due array ; Then paiting, form'd in order of attack, In five divisions, with their sev'ral chiefs. Round Hector throng'd, and bold Polydamas, 95 The best and bravest ; they who long'd the most To storm the wall, and fight beside the ships. With them Cebriones ; for Hector left, To guard the horses, one of lesser note. The next division was by Paris led, 100 Agenor, and Alcathous ; the third By Helenas, and brave Deiphobus, Two sons of Priam; Asius was the third, Asius, the son of Hyrtacus; who brought His tow'ring fiery steeds from Selles' stream, 105 412 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book XIL Hard by Arisba ; stout ^Eneas led The fourth, Auchises' son, Archilochus With him, and Acamas, Antenor's sons ; Both skill'd alike in ev'ry point of war. Of the far-fam'd Allies, Sarpedon held 110 The chief command ; and for his comrades chose Asteropseus, and the warlike might Of Glaucus ; these o'er all the rest he held Pre-eminent in valour, save himself, "Who o'er them all superior stood confess'd. 115 These, interlac'd their shields of tough bull's-hide, "With eager step advanc'd, and deem'd the Greeks Would, unresisting, fall before their ships. The other Trojans and renown'd Allies The words of wise Polydamas obey'd : 120 But Asius, son of Hyrtacus, refus'd His horses and his charioteer to leave, With them advancing to assail the ships. Blind fool, unconscious ! from before those ships, Escap'd from death, with horses and with car 125 Triumphant, to the breezy heights of Troy He never shall return ; ill-omen'd fate Book XII. HOMER'S ILIAD. 413 O'ershadowing, dooms him by the spear to fall Of brave Idomeneus, Deucalion's son. He tow'rd the left inclin'd, what way the Greeks 130 With horse and chariot from the plain return'd. That way he drove his horses ; and the gates Unguarded found by bolt or massive bar. Their warders held them open'd wide, to save Perchance some comrade, flying from the plain. 135 Thither he bent his course ; with clamours loud Follow 1 d his troops ; nor deem'd they that the Greeks Would hold their ground, but fall amid their ships. Little they knew ; before the gates they found Two men, two warriors of the prime, two sons 140 Illustrious of the spear-skill'd Lapithte : Stout Polypoetes one, Pirithous' son, With whom Leonteus, bold as blood-stain'd Mars : So stood these two before the lofty gates, As on the mountain side two tow'ring oaks, 145 Which many a day have borne the wind and storm, Firm rifted by their strong continuous roots : So in their arms and vigour confident Those two great Asms' charge, undaunted, met. 414 HOMEE'S ILIAD. Book XIL On th' other side, with shouts and wild uproar, 150 Their bull's-hide shields uplifted high, advanc'd Against the well-built wall, Asius the King, Ianienus, Orestes, Acamas The son of Asius, and GEnomaus, And Thoon ; those within to save the ships 155 Calling meanwhile on all the well-greav'd Greeks ; But when they saw the wall by Trojans scal'd, And heard the cry of Greeks in panic fear, Sprang forth those two, before the gates to light. As when two boars, upon the mountain side, 160 Await th' approaching din of men and dogs, Then sideways rushing, snap the wood around, Ripp'd from the roots ; loud clash their clatt'ring tusks, Till to the huntsman's spear they yield their lives ; So clatter'd on those champions' brass-clad breasts 165 The hostile weapons ; stubbornly they fought, Relying on their strength, and friends above : For from the well-built tow'rs huge stones were hurl'd By those who for themselves, their tents and ships, Maintain'd defensive warfare ; thick they fell, 170 As wintry snow-flakes, which the boist'rous wind, Book XIL HOMER'S ILIAD. 415 Driving the shadowy clouds, spreads fast and closo O'er all the surface of the fertile earth : So thick,' from Grecian aud from. Trojan hands, The weapons flew ; on helm and bossy shield 175 With grating sound the pond'rous masses rang. Then deeply groaning, as he smote his thigh Thus spoke dismay'd the son of Hyrtacus : " O Father Jove, how hast thou lov'd our hopes To falsify, who deem'd not that the Greeks 180 Would stand our onset, and resistless arms ! But they, as yellow-banded wasps, or bees, That by some rocky pass have built their nests, Abandon not their cavern'd home, but wait Th' attack, and boldly for their offspring fight ; 185 So from the gates these two, though two alone, Retire not, till they be or ta'en or slain." He said : but Jove regarded not his words ; So much on Hector's triumph he was bent. Like battle rag'd round th' other gates ; but hard 190 It were for me, with godlike pow'r to paint Each sev'ral combat ; for around the wall A more than human storm of stone was pour'd 416 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book XII. On ev'ry side ; the Greeks, hard press'd, perforce Fought for their ships, while all the Gods look'd on Indignant, who the Grecian cause upheld. 196 Fiercely the Lapithee sustain'd the war : Stout Polypostes first, Pirithous' son, Smote, through the hrass-cheek'd helmet, Damasus ; Nor stay'd the brazen helm the spear, whose point "Went crashing through the bone, that all the brain "Was shatter'd ; onward as he rush'd, he fell. 202 Then Pylon next, and Ormenus he slew : Meantime Leonteus, scion true of Mars, Struck with unerring spear Hippomachus, 205 Son of Antimachus, below the waist ; Then, drawing from the sheath his trenchant sword, Dash'd through the crowd, and hand to hand he smote Antiphates ; he, backward, fell to earth. Menon, Iamenus, Orestes next, 210 In quick succession to the ground he brought. From these while they their glitt'ring armour stripp'd, Round Hector throng'd, and bold Polydamas, The bravest and the best, who long'd the most To storm the wall, and burn with fire the ships. 215 Book XII. HOMER'S ILIAD. ji; Yet on the margin of the ditch they paus'd ; For, as they sought to cross, a sign from Ilcav'n Appear'd, to leftward of th' astonish'd crowd ; A soaring eagle in his talons bore A dragon, huge of size, of blood-red hue, 220 Alive, and breathing still, nor yet subdued ; For twisting backward through the breast he pieroYl His bearer, near the neck; he, stung with pain, Let fall his prey, which dropp'd amid the crowd ; Then screaming, on the blast was borne away. 225 The Trojans, shudd'ring, in their midst beheld The spotted serpent, dire portent of Jove : Then to bold Hector thus Polydamas : " Hector, in council thou reprov'st me oft For good advice ; it is not meet, thou say'st, 230 That private men should talk beside the mark, In council or in war, but study still Thine honour to exalt ; yet must I now Declare what seems to me the wisest course : Let us not fight the Greeks beside their ships ; 235 For thus I read the future, if indeed To us, about to cross, this sign from Heav'n VOL. I. ^ 418 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book XIL "Was sent, to leftward of tli' astonish'd crowd : A soaring eagle, bearing in his claws A dragon, huge of size, of blood-red hue, 240 Alive ; yet dropp'd hirn ere he reach'd his home, ISTor to his nestlings bore th' intended prey : So we, e'en though our mighty strength should break The gates and wall, and put the Greeks to rout, By the same road not scatheless should return, 245 But many a Trojan on the field should leave, Slain by the Greeks, while they their ships defend. So would a seer, well vers'd in augury, "Worthy of public credit, read this sign." To whom thus Hector of the glancing helm 250 Replied, with stern regard : " Polydamas, This speech of thine is alien to my soul : Thy better judgment better counsel knows. But if in earnest such is thine advice, Thee of thy senses have the Gods bereft, 255 "Who fain wouldst have us disregard the word And promise by the nod of Jove confirm'd, And put our faith in birds' expanded wings ; Little of these I reck, nor care to look, SookXH. HOMER'S ILIAD. n:. If to the right, and tow'rd the morning sun, 200 Or to the left, and shades of night, they fly. Put we our trust in Jove's eternal will, Of mortals and Immortals King supreme. The best of omens is our country's cause. Why shouldst thou tremble at the battle strife \ Though ev'ry Trojan else were doom'd to die Beside the ships, no fear lest thou should-i fall : Unwarlike is thy soul, nor firm of mood : But if thou shrink, or by thy craven words Turn back another Trojan from the fight, My spear shall take the forfeit of thy life." This said, he led the way ; with joyous shouts They folio w'd all ; then Jove, the lightning's Lord, From Ida's heights a storm of wind sent down. Driving the dust against the Grecian ships ; \i 7*> Which quell'd their courage, and to Hector gave, And to the Trojans, fresh incitement ; they. On their own strength, and heav'nly signs reiving, Their force address'd to storm the Grecian wall. They raz'd the counterscarp, the battlements Destroy'd ; and the projecting buttresses, 420 HOMEE'S ILIAD. Book XIL Which, to sustain the tow'rs, the Greeks had fix'd Deep in the soil, with levers undermin'd. These once withdrawn, they hop'd to storm the wall ; jSTor from the passage yet the Greeks withdrew, 285 But closely fencing with their bull's-hide shields The broken battlements, they thence hurl'd down A storm of weapons on the foe beneath. Commanding from the tow'r in ev'ry place "Were seen th' Ajaces, urging to the fight, 290 Imploring these, and those in sterner tones Rebuking, who their warlike toil relax'd. " Friends, Grecians all, ye who excel in war, And ye of mod'rate or inferior strength, Though all are not with equal pow'rs endued, 295 Yet here is work for all ! bear this in mind, Nor tow'rd the ships let any turn his face, By threats dismay'd ; but forward press, and each Encourage each, if so the lightning's Lord, Olympian Jove, may grant us to repel, 300 And backward to his city chase the foe." Thus they, with cheering words, sustain'd the war : Thick as the snow-flakes on a wintry day, Book XII. HOMER'S ILIAD. 421 When Jove, the Lord of counsel, down on men His snow-storm sends, and manifests his pow'r : '"> (, -"i Hush'd are the winds ; the flakes continuous fall, That the high mountain tops, and jutting crags, And lotus-cover' d meads are buried deep, And man's productive labours of the field ; On hoary Ocean's beach and bays they lie, 310 Th' approaching waves their bound ; o'er all beside Is spread by Jove the heavy veil of snow. So thickly flew the stones from either side, By Greeks on Trojans hurl'd, by these on Greeks ; And clatter'd loud through all its length the wall. Nor yet the Trojans, though by Hector led, 316 The gates had broken, and the massive bar. But Jove against the Greeks sent forth his son Sarpedon, as a lion on a herd : His shield's broad orb before his breast he bore, "Well-wrought, of beaten brass, which th' arrn'rer'sliand Had beaten out, and lin'd with stout bullVlmle ; With golden rods, continuous, all around ; He thus equipp'd, two jav'lins brandishing, Strode onward, as a lion, mountain-bred. 422 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book XII. Whom, fasting long, his dauntless courage leads To assail the flock, though in well-guarded fold ; And though the shepherds there he find, prepar'd With dogs and lances to protect the sheep, Not unattempted will he leave the fold ; 330 But, springing to the midst, he bears his prey In triumph thence ; or in the onset falls, Wounded by jav'lins hurl'd by stalwart hands : So, prompted by his godlike courage, burn'd Sarpedon to assail the lofty wall, 335 And storm the ramparts ; and to Glaucus thus, Son of Hippolochus, his speech address'd : " Whence is it, Glaucus, that in Lycian land We two at feasts the foremost seats may claim, The largest portions, and the fullest cups ? 340 Why held as Gods in honour ? why endow'd With ample heritage, by Xanthus' banks, Of vineyard, and of wheat producing land ? Then by the Lycians should we not be seen The foremost to affront the raging fight ? 345 So may our well-arm'd Lycians make their boast ; 1 To no inglorious Kings we Lycians owe l Book XII. HOMER'S ILIAD. Allegiance ; they on richest viands feed ; Of luscious flavour drink the choicesl wine ; But still their valour brightest shows ; and they, 350 Where Lycians war, are foremost in the fight I' O friend ! if we, survivors of this wa Could live, from age and death for ever free, Thou shouldst not see me foremost in the fight, Nor would I urge thee to the glorious field : But since on man ten thousand forms of death Attend, which none may 'scape, then on, thai May glory on others gain, or they on ub ! " Thus he ; nor Glaucus from his bidding shrank ; And forward straight they led the Lycian pow're. 360 Menestheus, son of Peteus, with dismay Observ'd their movement ; for on his command, Inspiring terror, their attack was made. He look'd around him to the Grecian toVrs, If any chief might there be found, to save His comrades from destruction ; there he saw, Of war insatiable, th' Ajaces twain ; And Teucer, from the tent but newly come, Hard by; nor yet could reach them with Li- v. .ice ; £24 HOMEE'S ILIAD. Book XII. Such was the din, such tumult rose to Heav'n, 370 From clatt'ring shields, and horsehair-crested helms, And batter' d gates, now all at once assail'd : Before them fiercely strove th' assaulting bands To break their way : he then Thootes sent, His herald, to th' Ajaces, craving aid. 375 " Haste thee, Thootes, on th' Ajaces call, Both, if it may be ; so we best may hope To 'scape the death, which else is near at hand ; So fierce the pressure of the Lycian chiefs, Undaunted now, as ever, in the fight. 380 But if they too are hardly press'd, at least Let Ajax, son of Telamon, be spar'd, And with him Teucer, skilled to draw the bow." He said ; the herald heard, and straight obey'd ; Alono; the wall.where stood the brass-clad Greeks, 385 He ran, and standing near th' Ajaces, said : " Ajaces, leaders of the brass-clad Greeks, The son of Heav'n-born Peteus craves your aid, To share awhile the labours of his guard ; Both, if it may be ; so he best may hope 390 To 'scape the death, which else is near at hand : Book XII. HOMEE'S ILIAD. 425 So fierce tlie pressure of tlie Lycian chiefs, Undaunted now, as ever, in tlie fight. But if ye too are hardly press'd, at least Let Ajax, son of Telamon, "be spar'd, 395 And with him Teucer, skill'd to draw the bow." He said : the mighty son of Telamon Consenting, thus addresss'd Oileus' son : " Ajax, do thou and valiant Lycomede Exhort the Greeks the struggle to maintain ; 400 "While I go yonder, to affront the war, To aid their need, and back return in haste." Thus saying, Ajax Telamon set forth, And with him Teucer went, his father's son, "While by Pandion Teucer's bow was borne. 405 At brave Menestheus' tow'r, within the wall, Arriv'd, sore press'd they found the garrison ; For like a whirlwind on the ramparts pour'd The Lycians' valiant councillors and cliiefs. They quickly join'd the fray, and loud arose 410 The battle-cry ; first Ajax Telamon Sarpedon's comrade, brave Epicles, slew, Struck by a rugged stone, within the wall *2G HOMER'S ILIAD. Book XII. Which lay, the topmost of the parapet, Of size prodigious ; which with both his hands 415 A man in youth's full vigour scarce could raise, As men are now ; he lifted it on high, And downward hurl'd; the four-peak'd helm it broke, Crushing the bone, and shatt'ring all the skull ; He, like a diver, from the lofty tow'r 420 Fell headlong down, and life forsook his bones. Teucer, meanwhile, from off the lofty wall The valiant Glaucus, pressing to the fight, Struck with an arrow, where he saw his arm Unguarded ; he no longer brook'd the fray ; 425 Back from the wall he sprang, in hopes to hide From Grecian eyes his wound, that none might see, And triumph o'er him with insulting words. With grief Sarpedon saw his friend withdraw, Yet not relax'd his efforts ; Thestor's son, 430 Alcmaon, with his spear he stabb'd, and back The weapon drew ; he, following, prostrate fell, And loudly rang his arms of polish'd brass. Then at the parapet, with stalwart hand, Sarpedon tugg'd ; and yielding to his force 435 uookXIL HOMER'S ILIAD. 427 Down fell the block entire ; the wall laid bare, To many at once the breach gave open way. Ajax and Tencer him at once assail'd ; This with an arrow struck the glitt'ring belt Around his breast, whence hung his pond'roufl shield; But Jove, who will'd not that his son should fall -I 1 1 Before the ships, the weapon turn'd aside. Then forward Ajax sprang, and with his spear Thrust at the shield ; the weapon pass'd not through, Yet check'd his bold advance ; a little space 445 Back he recoil'd, but not the more withdrew. His soul on glory intent ; and rallying quick, Thus to the warlike Lycians shouted loud : " -Why, Lycians, thus your wonl ;ht relax i 'Tis hard for one alone, how brave soe'er, 450 E'en though he break the rampart down, to force A passage to the ships ; but on with me ! For work is here for many hands to do." He said ; and by the King's rebuke abash'd, With fiercer zeal the Lycians press'd around Their King and councillor ; on th' other side Within the wall the Greeks their squadron i'd ; 428 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book XIL Then were great deeds achiev'd ; nor thro' the breach Could the brave troops of Lycia to the ships Their passage force ; nor could the warrior Greeks 460 Repel the Lycians from the ground, where they, Before the wall, had made their footing good. As when two neighbours, in a common field, Each line in hand, within a narrow space, About the limits of their land contend ; 465 Between them thus the rampart drew the line ; O'er which the full-orb'd shields of tough bull's-hide, And lighter bucklers on the warriors' breasts On either side they clove ; and many a wound The pitiless weapons dealt, on some who, turn'd, 470 Their neck and back laid bare ; on many more, Who full in front, and through their shields were struck. On ev'ry side the parapet and tow'rs With Greek and Trojan blood were spatter'd o'er. Nor yet, e'en so, the Greeks to flight were driv'n ; 475 But as a woman that for wages spins, Honest and true, with wool and weights in hand, In even balance holds the scales, to mete Tier humble hire, her children's maintenance ; UooxXlI. HOMER'S ILIAD. So even hung the balance of the war 3 ->0 Till Jove with highest honour Eector crown'd, The son of Priam ; he, the foremi il'd The wall, and loudly on the Trojans call'd : " On, valiant Trojans, on ! the Grecian wall Break down, and wrap their ships in blazing fires." Thus he, exhorting, spoke ; they heard him all, 486 And to the wall rush'd numberless, and swarmM Upon the ramparts, bristling thick with spears. Then Hector, stooping, seiz'd a pond'rons si That lay before the gates; 'twas broad below. But sharp above ; and scarce two lab'ring men, The strongest, from the ground could raise it up, And load upon a wain ; as men are now ; .But he unaided rifted it with ease, So light it seem'd, by grace of Saturn's son. As in one hand a shepherd bears with ( A fulksiz'd fleece, and scarcely feels the weight ; So Hector tow'rd the portals bore the stone, Which clos'd the lofty double-folding gate Within defended by two massive bars 500 Laid crosswise, and with one cross bolt secur'd. 430 HOMER'S ILIAD. Book XII. Close to the gate lie stood ; and planting firm His foot, to give his arm its utmost pow'r, "Full on the middle dash'd the mighty mass. The hinges both gave way ; the pond'rous stone 505 Fell inwards ; widely gap'd the op'ning gates ; Nor might the bars within the blow sustain : This way and that the sever'd portals flew Before the crashing missile ; dark as night His low'ring brow, great Hector sprang within ; 510 Bright flask'd the brazen armour on his breast, As through the gates, two jav'lins in his hand, He sprang ; the Gods except, no pow'r might meet That onset ; blaz'd his eyes with lurid fire. Then to the Trojans, turning to the throng, 515 He call'd aloud to scale the lofty wall ; They heard, and straight obey'd ; some scal'd the wall : Some through the strong-built gates continuous pour'd ; While in confusion irretrievable Fled to their ships the panic-stricken Greeks. 520 I EKDWV0 ]' 1 - $4 5 a 2 J. H. Tobitt, Pkinteb asd Stebeottper, Franklin-iquare. .IftHw V Tnnw. Printre. BO Or?.ene-street. 'ft UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LIBRARY Los Angeles This book is DUE on the last date stamped below. A! kfi PEC T ID-UT& REC'O LD UR : jQUG 1 7 *S34 APR 011985 j Cl» 23 M OCT I 6 1990 Fori) 3 1158 00562 0454 r SOUTHERN REGIONS LIBRA^*CIUTY AA 000 451 463