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+The Project Gutenberg eBook of Odysseus, the Hero of Ithaca, by Homer
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and
+most other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions
+whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms
+of the Project Gutenberg License included with this eBook or online at
+www.gutenberg.org. If you are not located in the United States, you
+will have to check the laws of the country where you are located before
+using this eBook.
+
+Title: Odysseus, the Hero of Ithaca
+       Adapted from the Third Book of the Primary Schools of Athens, Greece
+
+Author: Homer
+
+Editor: Mary Elizabeth Burt
+
+Translator: Zenaïde Alexeïevna Ragozin
+
+Release Date: March 16, 2008 [eBook #24856]
+[Most recently updated: March 3, 2021]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: UTF-8
+
+Produced by: Ron Swanson
+
+*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK ODYSSEUS, THE HERO OF ITHACA ***
+
+
+
+
+[Frontispiece: ODYSSEUS AS A YOUTH AT HOME WITH HIS MOTHER]
+
+
+
+
+ODYSSEUS
+THE HERO OF ITHACA
+
+ADAPTED FROM THE THIRD BOOK OF THE PRIMARY SCHOOLS OF ATHENS, GREECE
+
+
+BY
+
+MARY E. BURT
+
+_Author of "Literary Landmarks," "Stories from Plato," "Story of the
+German Iliad," "The Child-Life Reading Study"; Editor of "Little
+Nature Studies"; Teacher in the John A. Browning School, New York
+City_
+
+AND
+
+ZENAÏDE A. RAGOZIN
+
+_Author of "The Story of Chaldea," "The Story of Assyria," "The Story
+of Media, Babylon, and Persia," "The Story of Vedic India"; Member
+of the Royal Asiatic Society of Great Britain and Ireland, of the
+American Oriental Society, of the Société Ethnologique of Paris,
+etc._
+
+
+
+
+CHARLES SCRIBNER'S SONS
+NEW YORK   CHICAGO   BOSTON
+
+
+
+
+COPYRIGHT, 1898, BY
+CHARLES SCRIBNER'S SONS
+
+Printed in the United States of America
+
+
+
+
+                         To
+                    THE TEACHER
+       WHOSE INTEGRITY AND PEDAGOGICAL SPIRIT
+    HAVE CREATED A SCHOOL WHEREIN THE IDEAL MAY
+             PROVE ITSELF THE PRACTICAL
+                         AND
+             THOSE ENTHUSIASTIC PUPILS
+    WHO LOVE THE LOYALTY AND BRAVERY OF ODYSSEUS
+              THIS BOOK IS DEDICATED
+
+
+
+
+CONTENTS
+
+                                                                 PAGE
+INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xiii
+
+
+PART I
+AN INTRODUCTION TO THE LIFE OF THE HERO, ODYSSEUS
+
+CHAPTER                                                          PAGE
+      I. About Troy and the Journey of Paris to Greece . . . . .    3
+
+     II. The Flight of Helen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    6
+
+    III. The Greeks Sail for Troy  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   10
+
+     IV. The Fall of Troy  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   13
+
+
+PART II
+THE RETURN OF ODYSSEUS TO HIS OWN COUNTRY
+
+CHAPTER                                                          PAGE
+      V. Odysseus on the Island of Calypso . . . . . . . . . . .   21
+
+     VI. Odysseus Constructs a Raft and Leaves the Island  . . .   25
+
+    VII. Odysseus is Saved on the Island of Scheria  . . . . . .   29
+
+   VIII. Nausicaä is Sent to the River by Athena . . . . . . . .   31
+
+     IX. Odysseus Arrives at the Palace of Alkinoös  . . . . . .   38
+
+      X. Odysseus in the Halls of Alkinoös . . . . . . . . . . .   42
+
+     XI. The Banquet in Honor of Odysseus  . . . . . . . . . . .   47
+
+    XII. Odysseus Relates His Adventures . . . . . . . . . . . .   54
+
+   XIII. The Lotus-Eaters and the Cyclops  . . . . . . . . . . .   57
+
+    XIV. The Cave of the Cyclops . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   60
+
+     XV. The Blinding of the Cyclops . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   64
+
+    XVI. Odysseus and His Companions Leave the Land of the
+           Cyclops . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   67
+
+   XVII. The Adventures of Odysseus on the Island of Æolus . . .   72
+
+  XVIII. Odysseus at the Home of Circè . . . . . . . . . . . . .   75
+
+    XIX. Circè Instructs Odysseus Concerning His Descent to
+           Hades . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   78
+
+     XX. The Adventures of Odysseus in Hades . . . . . . . . . .   84
+
+    XXI. Odysseus Converses with His Mother and Agamemnon  . . .   87
+
+   XXII. Conversation with Achilles and Other Heroes . . . . . .   90
+
+  XXIII. The Return of Odysseus to the Island of Circè . . . . .   94
+
+   XXIV. Odysseus Meets the Sirens, Skylla, and Charybdis  . . .   98
+
+    XXV. Odysseus on the Island of Hēlios  . . . . . . . . . . .  101
+
+   XXVI. The Departure of Odysseus from the Island of Scheria  .  105
+
+  XXVII. Odysseus Arrives at Ithaca  . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  108
+
+ XXVIII. Odysseus Seeks the Swineherd  . . . . . . . . . . . . .  113
+
+
+PART III
+THE TRIUMPH OF ODYSSEUS
+
+CHAPTER                                                          PAGE
+   XXIX. Athena Advises Telemachos . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  123
+
+    XXX. Telemachos Astonishes the Wooers  . . . . . . . . . . .  128
+
+   XXXI. Penelope's Web  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  130
+
+  XXXII. The Journey of Telemachos . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  135
+
+ XXXIII. Telemachos in Pylos . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  138
+
+  XXXIV. Telemachos in Sparta  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  141
+
+   XXXV. Menelaos Relates His Adventures . . . . . . . . . . . .  147
+
+  XXXVI. The Conspiracy of the Suitors . . . . . . . . . . . . .  151
+
+ XXXVII. Telemachos Returns to Ithaca  . . . . . . . . . . . . .  155
+
+XXXVIII. Telemachos and the Swineherd  . . . . . . . . . . . . .  158
+
+  XXXIX. Telemachos Recognizes Odysseus  . . . . . . . . . . . .  161
+
+     XL. Telemachos Returns to the Palace  . . . . . . . . . . .  165
+
+    XLI. Odysseus is Recognized by His Dog . . . . . . . . . . .  169
+
+   XLII. Odysseus Comes, a Beggar, to His Own House  . . . . . .  172
+
+  XLIII. Conversation of Odysseus and Penelope . . . . . . . . .  176
+
+   XLIV. Eurycleia Recognizes Odysseus . . . . . . . . . . . . .  180
+
+    XLV. Penelope's Dream  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  183
+
+   XLVI. Athena Encourages Odysseus  . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  185
+
+  XLVII. The Last Banquet of the Suitors . . . . . . . . . . . .  188
+
+ XLVIII. Odysseus Bends the Bow  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  194
+
+   XLIX. Death of the Suitors  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  201
+
+      L. Eurycleia Announces the Return of Odysseus to Penelope   203
+
+     LI. Odysseus Visits His Father  . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  209
+
+         Vocabulary and Notes  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  215
+
+
+
+
+LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS
+
+
+ODYSSEUS AS A YOUTH AT HOME WITH HIS MOTHER  . . . . . . Frontispiece
+
+                                                          FACING PAGE
+THE SILVER-FOOTED THETIS RISING FROM THE WAVES . . . . . . . . .   10
+
+ODYSSEUS AND MENELAOS PERSUADING AGAMEMNON TO SACRIFICE
+           IPHIGENEIA  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   12
+
+ALPHEUS AND ARETHUSA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  113
+
+THE SWINEHERD TELLING HIS STORY TO ODYSSEUS  . . . . . . . . . .  119
+
+ODYSSEUS FEIGNS MADNESS  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  146
+
+
+
+
+INTRODUCTION
+
+
+It has long been the opinion of many of the more progressive teachers
+of the United States that, next to Herakles, Odysseus is the hero
+closest to child-life, and that the stories from the "Odyssey" are
+the most suitable for reading-lessons. These conclusions have been
+reached through independent experiments not related to educational
+work in foreign countries.
+
+While sojourning in Athens I had the pleasure of visiting the best
+schools, both public and private, and found the reading especially
+spirited. I examined the books in use and found the regular
+reading-books to consist of the classic tales of the country, the
+stories of Herakles, Theseus, Perseus, and so forth, in the reader
+succeeding the primer, and the stories of Odysseus, or Ulysses, as
+we commonly call him, following as a third book, answering to our
+second or third reader. This book I brought home with me and had a
+careful, literal translation made. I submitted this translation to
+that notable scholar, Zenaïde A. Ragozin, with whom I faithfully
+traversed the ground, word by word and sentence by sentence. This
+version I have carefully compared with Bryant and rewritten, making
+the language as simple as could be consistent with the dignity of
+the subject-matter.
+
+The introduction to the original book as I found it in Greece contains
+many interesting points, since it shows that educators in foreign
+countries, notably in Germany, had come to the same conclusion with
+our best American teachers. The editor of the little Greek
+reading-book says:
+
+"In editing this work we have made use not only of Homer's 'Odyssey,'
+_but also of that excellent reader which is used in the public schools
+of Germany_, Willman's 'Lesebuch aus Homer.' We have divided the
+little volume into three parts, the first of which gives a short
+_resumé_ of the war against Troy and the destruction of that city,
+the second the wanderings of Odysseus till his arrival in Ithaca,
+the third his arrival and the killing of the wooers. We have no apology
+to make in presenting this book to the public as a school-book, since
+many people superior to us have shown the need of such books in
+school-work. The new public schools, as is well known, have a mission
+of the highest importance. They do not aim, as formerly, at absolute
+knowledge pounded into the heads of children in a mechanical way.
+Their aim is the mental and ethical development of the pupils. Reading
+and writing lead but half way to this goal. With all nations the
+readers used in the public schools are a collection of the noblest
+thoughts of their authors."
+
+The Greek editor had never read the inane rat and cat stories of
+American school "readers" when he wrote that. He continues:
+
+"Happily the Greek nation, more than any other, abounds in literary
+masterpieces. Nearly all of the Greek writings contain an abundance
+of practical wisdom and virtue. Their worth is so great that even
+the most advanced European nations do not hesitate to introduce them
+into their schools. The Germans do this, although their habits and
+customs are so different from ours. They especially admire Homer's
+works. These books, above all others, afford pleasure to the young,
+and the reason for it is clearly set forth by the eminent educator
+Herbart:
+
+"'The little boy is grieved when told that he is little. Nor does
+he enjoy the stories of little children. This is because his
+imagination reaches out and beyond his environments. I find the
+stories from Homer to be more suitable reading for young children
+than the mass of juvenile books, because they contain grand truths.'
+
+"Therefore these stories are held in as high esteem by the German
+children as by the Greek. In no other works do children find the grand
+and noble traits in human life so faithfully and charmingly depicted
+as in Homer. Here all the domestic, civic, and religious virtues of
+the people are marvellously brought to light and the national feeling
+is exalted. The Homeric poetry, and especially the 'Odyssey,' is
+adapted to very young children, not only because it satisfies so well
+the needs which lead to mental development, but also for another
+reason. As with the people of olden times bravery was considered the
+greatest virtue, so with boys of this age and all ages. No other
+ethical idea has such predominance as that of prowess. Strength of
+body and a firm will characterize those whom boys choose as their
+leaders. Hence the pleasure they derive from the accounts of
+celebrated heroes of yore whose bravery, courage, and prudence they
+admire."
+
+The editor further extols the advantages arising from the study of
+Homer, it making the youthful students acquainted with the earliest
+periods of Greek history, the manners and customs of the people, and
+he ends by quoting from Herbart:
+
+"Boys must first get acquainted with the noisy market-place of Ithaca
+and then be led to the Athens of Miltiades and Themistokles."
+
+With equal truth the American can say that the child whose patriotism
+is kindled by the Homeric fire will the more gladly respond to the
+ideals set forth in the history of a Columbus or a Washington.
+
+MARY E. BURT.
+
+
+
+
+PART I
+AN INTRODUCTION TO THE LIFE OF THE HERO, ODYSSEUS
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER I
+ABOUT TROY AND THE JOURNEY OF PARIS TO GREECE
+
+
+On the northern shore of Asia Minor there lies a plateau watered by
+many small rivers and surrounded on all sides by mountains, only on
+the north it slopes gently to the sea. On this plateau, between the
+Simois and Scamandros rivers, in the oldest times there stood a very
+rich and powerful city, whose name was Troy. It was the capital of
+a large and fertile district, known as the Troad.
+
+There, about 1200 B.C., reigned a king by the name of Priam, possessed
+of great power and boundless wealth. He had many sons and daughters.
+It was said, indeed, that he had fifty sons who were all married and
+living in their own homes, which they had built by the king's wish
+around the royal palace.
+
+They were all handsome and heroic young men. One of the youngest,
+Paris, also named Alexandros, surpassed the others in beauty. He was
+a restless youth and not fond of his home, as were the others. He
+had set his heart on travelling and seeing strange countries and
+cities. King Priam was extremely fond of his large family, and took
+pride in having all his children about him, so that at first he was
+greatly opposed to the wishes of Paris.
+
+But the youth was so persistent and unhappy that the king at last
+consented to let him go. Without delay, Paris called together a few
+friends with tastes as adventurous as his own. They embarked in a
+new ship well provided with all that travellers need, and set sail
+for the famous land on the shores of the Ægean Sea, of which they
+had heard so many wonderful things, and which was called Hellas.
+
+Nearly in the middle of the plain which forms the southern part of
+Hellas was the city of Sparta. It was on the river Eurotas, and was
+the capital of a large district called Lacedæmon, and it was to this
+city that Paris came.
+
+Now, there was a mysterious reason for this strange desire of
+Paris--his passionate longing to travel. In his early youth, while
+he was still minding his herds on the rich pastures of Mount Ida,
+he received a visit from the three greatest goddesses of Olympos.
+
+Hera, the queen of Heaven and consort of Zeus--Athena, the goddess
+of wisdom, and Zeus's favorite daughter--and Aphrodite, the goddess
+of love and beauty, had a dispute among themselves.
+
+Each thought herself the most beautiful of the three, and they would
+have come to high words about it had not Athena proposed that they
+should ask the handsomest man in the world to settle the question.
+This happened to be the young royal shepherd, Paris. So the three
+goddesses floated down to the slope of Mount Ida on a snowy cloud
+and placed the question before him, each promising to reward him
+royally if he gave his verdict in her favor.
+
+Paris, as might have been expected, decided in favor of Aphrodite,
+who had promised him that the fairest woman living in the whole world
+should be his wife. This promise had to be kept, being given by a
+goddess, but it was the source of endless misfortune, for Paris had
+a young and lovely wife who was tenderly attached to him, while the
+fairest of living women--acknowledged as such by fame in all known
+countries--was Queen Helen of Sparta, herself the wife of another
+man.
+
+Her husband was one of the most renowned heroes of Hellas, King
+Menelaos, a son of Atreus and brother of the leader of the Greek chiefs,
+Agamemnon, King of Mycenæ. It was Aphrodite, then, who inspired Paris
+with an insane desire to forsake his parents, brothers, and wife.
+It was her secret guidance which led him across the seas and through
+the dangers lurking among the hundreds of islands of the Archipelagos
+straight to the land of Lacedæmon. This is the central of the three
+peninsulas in which the Peloponnesus ends, and might be called the
+middle finger of that large hand of which Arcadia is the palm.
+
+Paris landed, with all his companions, on the shores of Lacedæmon,
+where the people received him kindly and helped him on his journey
+to Sparta, where Menelaos and Helen gave him a cordial welcome.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER II
+THE FLIGHT OF HELEN
+
+
+Aphrodite, while leading Paris to the shores of Lacedæmon, had not
+forgotten her promise, and in Sparta itself she was at work at its
+fulfilment. She inspired Queen Helen with a growing discontent and
+restlessness of spirit. Menelaos had not noticed any change in her,
+and it was with an utterly unsuspicious mind that he received the
+fatal strangers and made them welcome guests in his land and home.
+
+More than that, having heard the news from Crete that his presence
+there was desirable on account of some urgent business, he did not
+hesitate to set sail for that island, in the expectation of finding
+Paris and his companions still enjoying the hospitality of his palace
+after a short absence.
+
+This was the chance which wily Aphrodite had contrived for Paris.
+He took the hint and carried Helen away to his ship, together with
+as much treasure as they could lay hands on, and then they sailed
+for Troy. Little did he heed, in his mad desire to call the most
+beautiful woman in the world his wife, that she was already the wife
+of a hero who had received him as an honored guest in his house, and
+that he was about to destroy the peace and honor of his host.
+
+As soon as Menelaos heard of the flight of his wife, he hastened back
+to Sparta, where he found his palace deserted and his treasure-house
+robbed.
+
+Then his heart was filled with great wrath. He set out at once to
+see his brother, Agamemnon, to consult with him about what was to
+be done. Agamemnon was ruler over Mycenæ, and highly respected in
+all Hellas on account of his power and riches.
+
+After the two brothers had talked over this grave affair, they
+announced to all the leaders in Hellas the great and detestable crime,
+and asked them for their assistance. All the king's chiefs of Hellas
+lent a willing ear to this demand, for in this breach of hospitality,
+committed against one of them, each felt himself personally aggrieved
+and bound to help in the punishment of what, in those times, was
+considered the most unpardonable of all crimes. Only one of the kings
+held back for awhile and needed much persuasion to join the league.
+This was Odysseus of Ithaca, who could well consider himself at the
+time the happiest of mortals, for he had lately married Penelope,
+one of the fairest and most virtuous maidens of Greece. He had an
+infant son of great beauty and promise, and he owned much land and
+countless herds of cattle, sheep, and swine. Added to that, all the
+petty nobles of the island acknowledged him as their chief.
+
+But a soothsayer, or seer, had greatly disturbed him by informing
+him that if he went to a great war he would be kept away from his
+home for the space of twenty years, and even then return to it in
+the guise of a beggar, after having suffered wrecks, captivity,
+endless wanderings, and loss of comrades.
+
+No one could doubt that Odysseus was brave, but no one could blame
+him for wishing to be excused from taking part in the war against
+Troy. Menelaos and his brother, however, would accept no excuse from
+him, as he was the wisest and craftiest of all the leaders, and when
+Odysseus finally consented to join them he set about arming and
+directing the young Greek warriors with all his heart and soul.
+
+There was another young prince whom it was absolutely necessary to
+secure, for a much venerated oracle had given it as a decree of the
+gods that Troy could never be taken without his help. This was Achilles,
+son of Peleus, king of the Myrmidons in Thessaly, and of the beauteous
+ocean nymph, Thetis. Notwithstanding his extreme youth, his father
+would not disappoint the whole country, and he let him go with those
+who came for him. But he sent along with him his adopted son, Patroklos,
+who was several years older, and to whom the boy was passionately
+attached, and also his oldest and most trusted servant, Phœnix. These
+two, the old man and the youth, he charged, as they hoped for the
+mercy of Zeus, to keep watchful guard over Achilles, whose exceedingly
+impetuous and reckless temper exposed him to many dangers which might
+be averted by a sensible and loving word spoken in time.
+
+[Illustration: THE SILVER-FOOTED THETIS RISING FROM THE WAVES]
+
+The Greeks took counsel together, and it was resolved that Menelaos
+should go in person to Troy and demand back his wife, Helen, as well
+as his treasure and a suitable apology for the wrong done to him and
+to all Hellas. He chose for his companion the cunning Odysseus. On
+their arrival in Troy, Menelaos and Odysseus presented themselves
+before Priam and demanded the return of Helen and the treasures.
+
+The king at once called his people together to deliberate upon the
+matter, and the two Greek kings bravely denounced the mean act of
+Paris. But the Trojans, stirred up by that youth, abused the
+ambassadors and drove them out of their city.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER III
+THE GREEKS SAIL FOR TROY
+
+
+The kings and chieftains of Hellas, having heard that Odysseus and
+Menelaos had been driven out of Troy, hastened to call together their
+fleets and armies at Aulis, a city of Bœotia on a ridge of rock running
+out into the sea between two little bays, each of which was a harbor
+for many ships. A hundred thousand men and a thousand ships were
+gathered there under the leadership of the celebrated and heroic
+chiefs. The commander-in-chief of the whole army was Agamemnon.
+
+Among the renowned leaders were Menelaos, the sagacious Odysseus,
+Ajax, and many others. Just as they were offering a sacrifice to the
+gods, in order to start out to the war with their good will, a great
+miracle happened. A fearful snake crept from under the altar and
+climbed a tree in which there was a sparrow's nest nearly hidden by
+the leaves. There were eight young sparrows in the nest, nine birds
+with the mother. The snake devoured the fluttering little birds,
+around which the mother circled as if overcome by grief.
+
+Then the snake darted at the mother-bird and swallowed it, when Zeus
+changed the reptile into a stone. The Greeks wondered at the sight,
+but the soothsayer, Calchas, said to them: "Why do ye wonder at this?
+The all-powerful Zeus has sent us this sign because our deeds shall
+live forever in the minds of men. Just as the snake has devoured the
+eight little sparrows and their mother, so shall the war swallow up
+the nine coming years, and in the tenth we shall overcome Troy."
+
+The ships of the Greeks lay in the bays of Aulis while the warriors
+waited impatiently to set sail. But the winds were contrary; they
+would not blow, and the boats waited there year after year; for a
+sacred hind had been slain by Agamemnon, one that belonged to the
+goddess Artemis, and it was ordered by that goddess that no wind should
+arise to take them on toward Troy until her wrath had been appeased.
+
+So Agamemnon went to Calchas, the seer, and asked his advice,
+whereupon the old prophet told him to send for his lovely young
+daughter, Iphigeneia, and offer her up on the altar as the only
+acceptable sacrifice to Artemis. When he had placed her upon the altar
+and the priest was raising his knife, the goddess took pity on
+Agamemnon and carried the girl away in a cloud, leaving a fine white
+doe instead.
+
+[Illustration: ODYSSEUS AND MENELAOS PERSUADING AGAMEMNON TO
+SACRIFICE IPHIGENEIA]
+
+And now arose a favorable wind, and the Greeks arrived safely before
+Troy. How they fought with the Trojans, how many of the heroes outlived
+the struggle, and how many fell in the battle, all this we can learn
+from an old book called the "Iliad." We shall select from it only
+those things which refer to our hero, Odysseus; and to complete the
+history of that hero we shall go to another book, called the "Odyssey."
+
+Both of these books are the work of the great poet Homer, who lived
+many years after the war with Troy. That we may understand better
+what happened later on, we must give a short account of the fall of
+Troy and of the return of Menelaos and Agamemnon to their own country.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IV
+THE FALL OF TROY
+
+
+The war lasted nine years, and in the tenth the Greeks conquered Troy,
+not in battle, but by means of a trick which had come into the mind
+of Odysseus. He told a skilful carpenter to build a wooden horse of
+gigantic size, and in it he hid the bravest Greek warriors. When he
+had done this he advised all the other Greeks to depart without leaving
+anything behind them, and so lead the Trojans to believe that they
+had given up the fight and gone home.
+
+So the Greeks burned their tents and put off to sea, while the Trojans
+from their walls watched them with great joy, thinking themselves
+well rid of an enemy. When the last ship had gone, the Trojans threw
+open the gates of their city and rushed down into the plain where
+the Greeks had had their camp, to see how the place looked.
+
+There they found the wooden horse, and one of the Greeks tied to a
+tree, who told them he was left there as a punishment, and that the
+wooden horse was an offering to the gods. The Trojans made up their
+minds to carry it into their city and give it the best place on their
+highest hill.
+
+Then Laocoön, a priest of Apollo, stepped forth, and said to them:
+"Unhappy people! what madness possesses you? Do ye think the enemy
+gone? Do ye know Odysseus so little? There are Greek warriors hidden
+in this horse, or else some other mischief is lurking there. Fear
+the Greeks even when they bring gifts."
+
+With these words, he thrust his spear into the flank of the horse,
+and the arms of the hidden enemy clashed with a loud noise. Just then
+two snakes of great size, sent by Athena, rose from the sea, and sprang
+upon Laocoön and his two sons, and, coiling around them, bit them
+to death. The Trojans, in great fear at the sight, took this as a
+sign from the gods that the horse was sacred and that they must protect
+it, and they moved it at once into their city, breaking down a part
+of their wall to get it in.
+
+Having done this, they gave themselves up to feasting and making merry,
+without the slightest thought that any evil was in store for them.
+But when night had come, and all were in a deep sleep, the ships of
+the Greeks, which had been hiding all the while behind a neighboring
+island, came back. The warriors who were concealed in the wooden horse
+sprang out and rushing wildly through the city, slew the Trojans right
+and left without mercy. From all sides came wailings and groans, and
+the flames of the burning city rose up to the sky.
+
+A deadly struggle took place between the Trojans and the Greeks. Priam
+was slain, and Paris and many other heroes. The victory was to the
+Greeks. Troy fell never to rise again, and the women and children
+were led off to become slaves to their conquerors.
+
+Thus was destroyed in one night the great and glorious city of Troy,
+all on account of the crime which Paris had committed against the
+laws of hospitality.
+
+The trials of the Greeks were not yet at an end. After their victory
+at Troy they embarked in their ships and started eagerly for their
+homes. But Zeus prepared a sad fate for them, because Ajax had
+violently dragged Cassandra, the beautiful daughter of Priam, from
+the altar of Athena and had made her his slave. Thus many of the leaders
+perished in the sea far from home, and some were cast on foreign shores
+to die.
+
+Menelaos was thrown by wind and waves on the island of Crete, and
+he lost many of the ships on the cliffs. Thence he strayed to the
+island of Cyprus, noted for its mines; and he roved through other
+lands until he came to Egypt, where he wandered about for eight years,
+when he returned to Sparta, taking Helen with him. He became
+reconciled to his wife, and they lived a quiet life far removed from
+the enchantments of the wily Aphrodite.
+
+But the saddest fate of all overtook Agamemnon, who met his death
+in his own house at the hands of his wife and brother.
+
+Agamemnon, without any accident at sea, reached his native land. Full
+of gratitude, he kissed the earth and wept tears of joy at the thought
+of meeting his wife and son.
+
+He entered his home with a glad heart, and his faithless wife came
+to meet him, but she had prepared a hot bath for him, and there he
+met his death, entangled in a net which she threw over him, for she
+had not forgotten the loss of her beautiful daughter, Iphigeneia,
+whom she believed to have been offered up as a sacrifice on the altar
+of Artemis.
+
+She was assisted in this dreadful deed by her husband's brother, who
+became ruler over the land, holding sway eight years, when Orestes,
+the son of Agamemnon, slew him and regained the kingdom.
+
+And now we come to the return of Odysseus, the wisest of the Greeks,
+who wandered to the remotest part of the earth and learned the customs
+of many people, and who suffered terrible things by land and sea.
+
+
+
+
+PART II
+THE RETURN OF ODYSSEUS TO HIS OWN COUNTRY
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER V
+ODYSSEUS ON THE ISLAND OF CALYPSO
+
+
+All the Greeks who had escaped from the destruction of Troy and had
+been spared the terrors of the sea returned to their homes. But the
+unfortunate Odysseus was delayed by the fair nymph Calypso on her
+island, where she made her home in a cool and beautiful grotto. There
+he wept and mourned, desiring to see his wife again and his native
+land. Each of the gods save one, Poseidon, god of the sea, wished
+to help him to find the way home. Odysseus had brought Poseidon's
+wrath upon himself through inflicting a terrible injury upon the
+favorite son of that deity, and for that reason the wrath of the god
+fell on him and he was wrecked. One day all the other gods had assembled
+in the hall of Zeus, on Mount Olympos, when Athena, the favorite
+daughter of Zeus and firm friend of Odysseus, knowing that her father
+in his heart was well-disposed toward the hero, began to plead for
+him in a way to excite greater pity still.
+
+"O my father, thou great king among the gods," she said, "my heart
+is troubled on account of the wise Odysseus, who lingers on an island,
+far away from home, and suffers greatly; for a nymph lives on the
+island, the daughter of great Atlas, and with sweet words she strives
+to make Odysseus forget his native land. But he bewails his fate and
+is full of sorrow, his only wish being to have a glimpse of the smoke
+of his beloved country."
+
+Zeus thereupon ordered Hermes to depart at once for the island and
+tell the nymph to send Odysseus to his home without delay. Hermes
+obeyed quickly. He bound his winged sandals to his feet, and, taking
+his golden wand in his hand, flew like a meteor over land and sea
+till he reached the island where the nymph Calypso made her abode.
+He found her within the grotto, singing sweetly while she wove a fine
+web on a golden loom.
+
+All about the grotto there was a grove of cypress-trees in which birds
+of gay colors were sporting and springs of pure water bubbling, and
+the fragrance of strange flowers filled the air. When Hermes had gazed
+upon these wonders he entered the grotto. It was bright with a blazing
+fire on a spacious hearth, and fragrant with the odor of burning cedar
+and cypress.
+
+Calypso saw him as he came in and knew him. She bade him sit down
+on a throne dazzling with jewels, and, placing a table before him
+laden with nectar and ambrosia, invited him to eat and drink. After
+he had finished his repast, Hermes told her that Zeus had sent him
+to her with the command that she should send Odysseus without delay
+to his native land. Having given this message, he disappeared, leaving
+Calypso in great grief.
+
+Odysseus in the meantime sat by the shore mourning and gazing out
+upon the sea. Calypso found him there, sitting alone, weeping and
+longing for his home. She stood by him and said: "Odysseus, my unhappy
+friend, do not waste thy life any longer in sorrow. The end of thy
+grief has come. Arise and prepare to depart for thy home. Build thee
+a raft of the trunks of trees which thou shalt hew down. I will put
+bread and water and delicate wine on board; and I will clothe thee
+in comfortable garments, and send a favorable wind that thou mayest
+safely reach thy native land."
+
+Thus spoke the lovely goddess, but Odysseus could hardly believe her,
+and said: "I fear, O goddess, that thou hast some other thought in
+thy mind, and that thou dost not wish to send me home when thou biddest
+me sail over this stormy and dangerous sea. I shall never go on to
+the raft against thy wish, and thou must swear the great oath of the
+gods that no harm shall come to me."
+
+The goddess smiled at these words, and, taking the hero by the hand,
+rejoined: "Thou art a wise man, and thy answer is well made. I will
+pledge thee a solemn oath, by the heavens and the earth, and the waters
+of the Styx, that I have no plan of evil against thee. And I advise
+thee to do as I have instructed thee, to be ready for any crisis."
+
+Speaking thus, the goddess went into the grotto and Odysseus followed
+her. When he had come into the spacious hall, he sat down on his throne
+and the nymph brought him rich food and wine. Then she took a seat
+opposite him, and her attendants brought her ambrosia and nectar,
+which she would gladly have shared with Odysseus, that he, too, might
+become an immortal.
+
+When the repast was over, Calypso narrated to him all the trials he
+would have to undergo before he could reach his native land. While
+she was relating these things the sun sank down, and darkness came
+upon the island, and all who had their abode in the grotto sought
+rest and slumber.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VI
+ODYSSEUS CONSTRUCTS A RAFT AND LEAVES THE ISLAND
+
+
+At daybreak the goddess gave Odysseus a large axe and a sharp adze,
+and led him to the heights of the island, where the largest trees
+grew. He went to work at once and cut down twenty trees, which he
+hewed into proper shape, and then tied them together with ropes which
+he himself made of bark.
+
+In this way he built a raft which was very large and strong enough
+to stand the onset of the waves. He wove a railing of willow and fitted
+it around the sides of the raft, to protect himself against the dashing
+waves; and he raised a strong mast with sails shaped to it, and tightly
+bound by cords and ropes. He filled the crevices of the raft with
+wax and pitch and attached a rudder.
+
+At the end of the fourth day his work was all done, and his little
+ship was ready to be launched. On the fifth day the beautiful goddess
+prepared the hero a bath and gave him new garments fragrant with
+perfumes. She went down to the boat with him and put on board a skin
+of dark-red wine, a larger one full of water, and a bag of dainty
+food. Then she bade Odysseus a kind farewell, and sent a gentle and
+friendly wind to waft him over the waves.
+
+Odysseus was wild with joy at the thought that he was really on his
+way home once more. He spread his sails to catch the breeze and took
+his seat at the helm, steering the vessel with great skill. He did
+not dare to take any sleep, for he had to watch the sky and stars
+constantly and use them as guides on his course. He sailed along in
+this way seventeen days. On the eighteenth he spied land in the
+distance. It was the land of the Phæacians, lying like a dark spot
+off in the sea.
+
+Then Poseidon, who was returning from Ethiopia, saw him, and his wrath
+grew hot against the hero. He raised up his head and said to himself:
+"Alas! the gods have strangely changed their minds about Odysseus
+during my absence in Africa. Behold! in a little while he will be
+in the land of the Phæacians, where he will find an end to his troubles.
+Nevertheless, it is in my power to chastise him."
+
+Speaking thus, Poseidon called the clouds together, and seizing his
+trident he stirred up the sea; then he set loose all the winds until
+there was a general hurricane, and he wrapped heaven and earth in
+the thick darkness of night.
+
+The mighty waves dashed over the raft, and Odysseus sank on his knees
+and trembled. With a deep groan he said: "Ah me, unhappy! Am I to
+bear more disasters? I fear that the warning of the goddess was too
+true, and that I shall be for a long time cast about on the waves
+before I reach home. With what dark clouds Zeus has shrouded the sky!
+The storm grows wild. What terrible waves are these! Helplessly I
+must perish. Happy the Greeks who fell before Troy, fighting for their
+country! Would that I, too, had met death the day when the Trojans
+hurled their spears at me as they strove to take the body of Achilles.
+If I had died then, the Greeks would have buried me with great honors.
+Now I shall die an inglorious death."
+
+As he spoke a huge wave struck the raft with such terrible force that
+it whirled it around and overturned it. The helm was wrung from his
+hand and he fell into the angry breakers. The mast was snapped in
+two and the ropes and sails flew off into the sea.
+
+Odysseus was under water a long time, striving in vain to come to
+the surface. Finally he rose, spitting the bitter brine out of his
+mouth. Although he was in such a desperate plight, his mind was on
+the raft. Battling bravely with the waves he reached it, and springing
+on board sat down in the middle of it. Thus he escaped death.
+
+The angry waves tossed him hither and thither as the wind scatters
+the leaves over a field. Then Ino, the daughter of Cadmus, saw him
+and took pity on him. She took the form of a bird, and, perching on
+his raft, she said to him: "O, luckless man! why is Poseidon so angry
+with thee? Fear nothing, however; he cannot take thy life. Obey me
+and thou shalt not suffer much longer. Lay aside thy clothes, leave
+the raft to the mercy of the winds and waves, and swim to the land.
+Take my veil and wind it about thy breast, and thou shalt not have
+anything to fear. As soon as thou hast reached the land, take it off
+and throw it back into the sea. Then hurry away inland."
+
+Odysseus hesitated to follow Ino's advice, fearing some treachery.
+But Poseidon sent a huge wave which struck him and scattered the raft
+as if it were dry chaff. Then Odysseus at once got astride of the
+swimming timber. He bound the veil around his breast and bravely
+plunged into the boiling waters.
+
+Poseidon saw him, and shaking his head he said: "I verily believe
+thou wilt come out alive from the sea. But the sea has had thee long
+enough, so that thou wilt know its power hereafter and fear it." Saying
+this he lashed up his horses and drove off.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VII
+ODYSSEUS IS SAVED ON THE ISLAND OF SCHERIA
+
+
+Athena, the daughter of Zeus, seeing Odysseus struggling through the
+waves, pitied him, and bade the winds become quiet. Two days and two
+nights Odysseus floated about, but on the third the wind calmed down
+and the sea became smooth.
+
+In a short time he found himself near land once more. But the shore
+was wild and full of sharp rocks and high cliffs. He could see no
+place on which to set foot, and he grew downhearted. His knees gave
+way, and, groaning deeply, he cried out: "O, luckless one! In vain
+have I braved the dangers of the sea to escape death. Now all hope
+has abandoned me, since there is no way for me to get out of the water.
+I fear that when I try to approach the land the waves will throw me
+against the cliffs, and should I try to find a safe landing-place
+by swimming, the surf may carry me back into the wild sea, where some
+sea-monster will swallow me up. Whatever I may do, I see no help for
+me."
+
+While he pondered over these things a huge wave cast him on the foamy
+shore. His bones were nearly broken, and he lay exhausted until the
+wave returned, when he was hurled again with great force back into
+the sea. Now the unfortunate wanderer took to swimming as his last
+resort, and reached the mouth of a river, where he was able to land.
+
+Too tired to breathe or speak, he sank down in a swoon. His knees
+and arms trembled, and his whole body was bruised and swollen. When
+his senses returned he rose and untied the veil that Ino had given
+him and cast it back into the sea. Then he knelt down and kissed the
+earth, and moved to a sheltered spot where a wild and a tame olive-tree
+were standing close together, whose branches had mingled with one
+another, and there he found a safe hiding-place.
+
+Then the godlike Odysseus lay down on a bed of dry leaves, covering
+himself up as one does an ember, lest it should go out. Athena came
+and poured sweet sleep over his eyes, that he might find quiet rest
+after all his toils.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VIII
+NAUSICAÄ IS SENT TO THE RIVER BY ATHENA
+
+
+While Odysseus lay in a deep sleep, the goddess Athena went to the
+royal dwelling of the king of the Phæacians, Alkinoös, in order to
+hasten the return of Odysseus to his native land. She entered the
+house, where she found Nausicaä, the king's daughter, sleeping in
+her beautiful chamber. Near her lay two maids who served her.
+
+Athena came as softly as a breath of air, and caused the maiden to
+dream that her marriage-day was near and that it was her duty to arise
+and hasten to the place by the river where they washed their clothing.
+In her dream the princess seemed to hear Athena say: "Nausicaä, why
+art thou so slothful? Thy beautiful robes lie neglected and thy
+wedding-day is at hand, on which thou surely shouldst wear garments
+of dazzling whiteness, and thou shouldst give such garments to those
+maidens who lead thee forth to thy bridegroom. Therefore, as soon
+as day breaks thou must ask thy father to give thee a pair of mules,
+and we will hasten to the washing-place down by the river."
+
+At the first dawn of day Nausicaä went in haste to her father and
+mother to tell them of her dream. She found them in their splendid
+hall. Her mother sat with her maidens spinning, and the king stood
+on the threshold, just going forth to meet his chiefs in council.
+The princess approached her father and said: "Dearest father, I pray
+that thou wilt give me two mules and a wagon, that I may go with my
+maids to the river and take all the clothes that need washing, for
+it becomes the king and his sons to wear clean garments when they
+go to the council of the chiefs. Thou hast five sons, three of whom
+are youths not wedded, and they should be provided with fresh robes;
+they will need them in the dance."
+
+The king smiled, for he saw what was in her mind, and he ordered the
+mules. Then his beautiful daughter brought from the linen-room the
+soiled garments and put them on the wagon, while the queen prepared
+a goodly lunch of cold meat and bread and a skin of sweet wine.
+
+Nausicaä further received from her mother a bottle of fragrant oil
+with which to anoint herself after the washing. Then she mounted the
+wagon, seized the whip and reins, and drove out of the city, the
+maidens of her train following her on foot.
+
+When they came to the place where the river was flowing bright and
+clear, they unhitched the mules and let them browse along the bank.
+Then they took their garments down from the wagon and tossed them
+into the marble vats which they had filled with the limpid water of
+the stream. When they had washed them clean they spread them on the
+white pebbles to dry. Having finished the task, they took a bath and
+anointed themselves with oil. Then they sat down on the shore and
+ate their lunch.
+
+The repast over, they began to play ball. First the white-armed
+Nausicaä threw the ball. She looked as tall and royal among her maids
+as did Artemis, the daughter of Zeus, among her nymphs.
+
+Nausicaä sang a song as they frolicked on the sand.
+
+When it was time to go home they put the clean garments upon the wagon
+and harnessed up the mules. Just as they started, Nausicaä once more
+threw the ball to one of the maidens, who failed to catch it. The
+ball rebounded from the rocks and fell into the river, at which the
+girls raised such a shout that Odysseus, who was sleeping close by,
+awoke.
+
+He opened his eyes and sat up, saying to himself: "Woe is me! Have
+I reached a country where people dwell? Are they wild and inhospitable,
+or friendly to the stranger and god-fearing? It seems to me I heard
+cries of women. Perhaps they were those of the nymphs who inhabit
+the mountain heights, the springs of rivers, and the green meadows,
+or those of people who live near by. But I will see who they are."
+
+So Odysseus clothed himself as best he could, by winding slender
+branches covered with leaves about him, and left the thicket where
+he was hidden. He went in the direction of the voices, stalking along
+like a great lion. When the girls saw him they shrieked and scattered
+in every direction. Nausicaä alone stood her ground, for Athena gave
+her courage. When Odysseus saw her he wondered which would be the
+better, to throw himself at the feet of the maiden and beg her to
+give him some clothes and to show him the way to the city, or to speak
+to her with more formality.
+
+It seemed better to him to remain at a distance, and so he addressed
+her gently, saying: "O queen, I know not whether thou art a goddess
+or a woman. If thou art a goddess, I should take thee to be Artemis,
+because thou art so tall and graceful. If, however, thou art a mortal,
+thrice happy thy father and honored mother. Greatly must they rejoice
+when they see their beautiful child in the choral dance. But he will
+be the happiest who shall win thee for a bride.
+
+"I once saw a young palm-tree growing up beside Apollo's altar in
+the island of Dēlos. It was the most beautiful tree the earth ever
+produced, and I gazed upon it with wonder and reverence. So am I amazed
+at thy beauty, and I fear to approach thee and throw myself as a
+suppliant at thy feet, although I am in sore distress, for great
+misfortunes have befallen me.
+
+"It was only last night that I escaped from the sea. On my way from
+Calypso's isle I was driven about for twenty days by the angry waves
+in a violent storm. Now some god has cast me on this shore to make
+me undergo new trials, for I do not believe my sufferings have come
+to an end. Have pity on me, O queen, because thou art the first human
+being I have met after so many misfortunes.
+
+"I do not know one person in this country. Show me thy city, I pray,
+and give me an old robe to wear, no matter how coarse and poor, and
+may the gods bestow all blessings upon thee."
+
+Nausicaä looked at Odysseus in pity and answered: "Stranger, thou
+dost not seem to me to be a man of mean birth or breeding, and thou
+art surely in distress. But it is Zeus who distributes gifts to mortals,
+both the good and the evil things of life, and thou must submit to
+his will with patience.
+
+"Since thou hast come into our land devoid of all things, even garments,
+and art helpless, I will give thee clothing and tell thee the way
+to the city. And I will tell thee about the people living in it, for
+I am the daughter of the king, Alkinoös, who reigns over this island."
+When Nausicaä had spoken thus to Odysseus, she turned to her maids
+and commanded them not to flee from the wanderer, but to bring him
+food and drink, since Zeus sent the poor and the stranger to be cared
+for.
+
+And she told them to lead him to some lonely spot by the side of the
+river, where he might bathe at his ease. So the maids came back and
+led the hero to a sheltered place and laid a cloak and tunic on the
+sand, and the bottle of oil which the queen had given Nausicaä, that
+Odysseus might anoint and clothe himself after his bath; then they
+ran back to the princess.
+
+Odysseus bathed in the fresh water of the river and washed the salt
+sea-foam from his hair, and when the bath was over he put on the robes
+that Nausicaä had sent. Athena shed a halo of beauty over him and
+caused him to look taller and stronger than before.
+
+As he walked along the beach to rejoin the maidens, they admired his
+noble and kingly bearing, and Nausicaä said to her maids: "Surely
+this man does not come among our godlike brothers against the will
+of the gods. I thought him rough and homely, but now he seems like
+one of the immortals. I would that I might call a man like him my
+husband. Make haste to give him food and wine, for he has fasted a
+long time."
+
+The maids hastened to obey. They looked over what was left of the
+abundant lunch and bade Odysseus eat and drink, which he was glad
+to do. The princess then yoked up the mules and they started for home.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IX
+ODYSSEUS ARRIVES AT THE PALACE OF ALKINOÖS
+
+
+After Nausicaä had mounted to her seat on the cart, she said to
+Odysseus: "Get ready now, stranger, and we will lead thee to my
+father's palace, where thou wilt meet the chiefs of the Phæacians.
+If thou art wise, take well to heart what I shall say to thee. As
+long as we are at a good distance from the city there is no harm in
+going along with us. Just follow close to the wagon with my maids.
+
+"But when we come near to the town thou must go more slowly and tarry
+behind a little, till we have reached my father's hall, because I
+dread the gossip of the baser sort of people whom we may meet. After
+thou hast seen us enter the city, then thou mayest enter it also and
+inquire the way to the king's palace. It is very beautiful. Thou mayest
+easily find it by thyself, for there is no other house in the city
+as large as ours.
+
+"Enter at once and find my mother and sue to her for protection and
+help, that thou mayest reach thy native land and thy dear ones again."
+
+Having spoken these words, Nausicaä touched the mules with her long
+whip and they quickly left the river, wending their way toward the
+city. They reached it at sunset, but Odysseus sat down in the sacred
+grove of Athena, outside of the city to wait, and prayed to the goddess
+that he might receive pity from the people of Phæacia.
+
+While he prayed, the damsels went on and soon reached the king's palace.
+Nausicaä's brothers came out and welcomed them, and unhitched the
+mules. When Odysseus had given them time to get home, he arose and
+found his way to the town. He had hardly entered it when Athena, in
+the form of a young girl carrying a pitcher of water, met him.
+
+"My daughter," Odysseus said to her, "canst thou show me the way to
+the king's palace? I am a stranger, and here for the first time."
+Athena answered him: "With pleasure, stranger; the king is our
+neighbor. Follow me, and I will lead thee thither. But on the way
+do not greet anyone or ask questions, for the people here are not
+fond of those who come from other lands."
+
+Thus spoke Athena and pursued her way with Odysseus following her.
+She threw a veil of darkness over the hero to hide him from rude gazers.
+Odysseus beheld the beautiful port with astonishment--the large
+ships, the great market-place, and the high walls of the city.
+
+When they reached the palace, the girl stopped and said: "This is
+the house of the king. Go in without any fear, for they love brave
+men, even when they come from afar. The first thing to do is to find
+the queen, whose name is Aretè.
+
+"She is greatly honored by the king, and all the people treat her
+as if she were a goddess, on account of her gentleness and virtue.
+In case the queen looks upon thee with favor, thou mayest be sure
+of safely reaching home."
+
+Having spoken these words, the goddess took a friendly leave of the
+hero, and he entered the outer hall of Alkinoös, where he was
+bewildered by the splendor. The walls were of brass, the doors of
+gold, and the thresholds and lintels of pure silver. On each side
+of the main entrance gold and silver dogs stood guard. They were
+endowed with life and were immortal, the work and gift of the divine
+Hephæstus.
+
+There were two rows of splendid seats in the large dining-hall. They
+were covered with costly mats, and the Phæacian leaders were wont
+to sit there and enjoy themselves. Golden statues of boys with lighted
+torches in their hands stood on beautiful pedestals and spread light
+over the merry banquets. There were fifty maid-servants in the palace.
+Some of them were grinding corn in the mill. Some spent their time
+in spinning and weaving, for as the men were renowned sailors, the
+women also were famous for making fine cloth.
+
+There was a large orchard all around the palace, surrounded by a thick
+hedge. In the orchard there was a great variety of fruit-trees--pear,
+apple, pomegranate, olive, and fig. The trees were never bare of fruit,
+either in summer or in winter, for an ever-blowing west wind created
+such a mild climate that the trees were constantly blooming and
+ripening their fruit.
+
+There was to be seen a tree full of blossoms, while another bent down
+under the load of ripe fruit. Thus it was with the grape-vines in
+the vineyard close to the orchard. Some were blooming, others had
+only begun to form fruit-buds, while some were loaded with ripe
+clusters ready for the wine-press. At the end of the orchard there
+was a magnificent flower-garden, in which the most fragrant flowers
+were blooming. Two springs also bubbled from the ground. One watered
+the orchard, and the other ran to the very door of the palace, and
+all the people filled their pitchers there. Such were the gifts
+Alkinoös had received from the gods.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER X
+ODYSSEUS IN THE HALLS OF ALKINOÖS
+
+
+After Odysseus had contemplated these wonders to his heart's content,
+he entered the main hall. There he found the leaders of the Phæacians
+bringing offerings of wine to Hermes, as the hour of sleep had arrived,
+and this was always their last ceremony before seeking slumber. No
+one saw Odysseus as he crossed the spacious room and came close to
+the king and queen, for he was still concealed in the thick mist which
+Athena had thrown round him. Suddenly the cloud vanished, and Odysseus
+threw himself at the feet of Aretè, and raised his voice in
+supplication.
+
+"Aretè," he prayed, "I have come to thy husband and to thy feet through
+many hardships and sorrows. May the gods give thee a long and happy
+life. For many years I have been a wanderer from home and all I love.
+I beg that thou wilt give me a guide and send me to my own land."
+
+When Odysseus had spoken these words he sat down amidst the ashes,
+close to the fire, and all the guests grew silent and looked at him
+with wonder. Then the oldest of the chiefs arose and said: "Alkinoös,
+this is not a royal seat for a stranger, among the cinders of the
+hearth. I pray thee, raise him up and place him on a throne, and order
+the heralds to fill a cup with wine, that we may pour a libation to
+Zeus, the protector of suppliants, and bid the guest welcome to our
+good cheer."
+
+Then Alkinoös arose and took Odysseus by the hand. He led him to a
+splendid throne but little lower than his own, while the herald placed
+a table before him loaded with dainty food. When Odysseus had eaten
+and drunk, the attendants filled the cups to pour libations in honor
+of Zeus, and Alkinoös said to them: "Listen, ye leaders and chiefs
+of the Phæacians. To-morrow we shall greet the stranger in our palace
+with honors and offer a great sacrifice to the gods. And then we will
+consider the best way of sending him home. But if we should find that
+he is a god instead of a mortal, we will do what seems best, for the
+gods do sometimes visit us in human shape."
+
+Then said Odysseus: "Nay, Alkinoös, I am not a god, nor like the gods
+in form or looks. I am only a wanderer, and I could tell of fearful
+sorrows; and I would willingly die if I could only see my home once
+more."
+
+The guests all greeted Odysseus with approving words, and promised
+to aid him. Then they rose, and each man went to his own home.
+
+Odysseus remained in the hall with Aretè and Alkinoös. As they
+conversed, the queen noticed the garments of Odysseus, because she
+had woven them herself, and she said to him: "Stranger, who art thou,
+and from what land? Didst thou not say thou hadst come here after
+many wanderings and voyages on the stormy sea? Who gave thee garments
+of my weaving?"
+
+Odysseus answered her: "It would not be easy, gracious queen, to tell
+about all my hardships and sufferings. Yet I will do thy bidding.
+I was shipwrecked long since, and thrown upon an island far out in
+the sea, where Calypso, the daughter of Atlas, lives. She cared for
+me most kindly, and would have made me, like herself, an immortal,
+but I chose instead the hope of seeing my own native land.
+
+"The goddess detained me seven long years on her island before she
+bade me start for home. I built a raft, which she stored with food,
+and she sent a pleasant breeze to carry me across the waters. But
+Poseidon stirred the winds and waves against me, and I was thrown
+upon the shores of this island, near the lavers, where thy daughter
+and her maids went to wash the household linen. There the princess
+found me, and supplied me with food and the garments I have on."
+
+"One duty my daughter left undone," Alkinoös said. "She should have
+brought thee home with her." "Do not blame her, I entreat," replied
+Odysseus, "for she bade me come with her maids, but I lingered in
+a grove to offer a prayer to Athena." When Alkinoös had heard this
+tale from Odysseus, he promised once more to give him a ship and
+sailors to escort him home.
+
+Meanwhile the queen bade her servants prepare a bed for the hero out
+on the portico, and they covered a couch with shaggy rugs and purple
+tapestries, where he could rest. With a grateful heart Odysseus arose,
+and, thanking the king for his generous hospitality, sought the bed,
+where he gave himself to happy dreams.
+
+Odysseus rose early the next morning and went with Alkinoös to the
+market-place, close to the sea, where all the Phæacians had assembled.
+The people gazed with admiration at their stranger-guest, for Athena
+lent him greater dignity and beauty, and she went among the crowds,
+moving their hearts to sympathy with him.
+
+Alkinoös then addressed the assembled multitude: "Hear me, ye chiefs
+of the Phæacians," he said. "This stranger has come to our land after
+many wanderings and adventures. And he asks me to send him back to
+his own country. Let us fit out a ship for him quickly and launch
+it, and give him fifty-two young men from among our best sailors,
+who shall get everything ready for the long journey.
+
+"While they are doing this the stranger shall come to my halls with
+the chiefs and princes, where we will make a great banquet. Summon
+also the bard, Demodokos, that he may enliven the festival with his
+harp and songs."
+
+Having spoken, Alkinoös rose and led his guest back to the palace,
+the princes following him. Fifty-two youths were soon chosen from
+among the best seamen, and they launched a ship speedily and went
+up to the royal palace.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XI
+THE BANQUET IN HONOR OF ODYSSEUS
+
+
+Alkinoös now ordered a sumptuous feast in honor of his guest. When
+the table was spread, the herald who had gone for Demodokos came in
+leading the bard, who was blind. The gods had deprived him of sight,
+but had bestowed upon him the gift of song. They gave him a seat on
+a silver throne, amid the guests, and hung his harp against a lofty
+pillar, close above his head, where he could easily reach it.
+
+When all had eaten and drunk as much as they desired, Demodokos took
+his lyre and began to sing about the heroes of Troy. It was a song
+whose fame had reached over the whole world, the story of a friendly
+strife between Achilles and Odysseus before Troy, in which Achilles
+held that Troy would fall by force, but Odysseus maintained that it
+would come to an end through the cunning of a few brave Greeks.
+
+All the guests enjoyed listening to the thrilling song, but Odysseus
+was deeply touched, and tears fell from his eyes. He brushed them
+away stealthily, so that no one should observe them, and drew a large
+purple veil over his face until the song was finished, when he put
+it away and took a goblet of wine, which he poured out on the ground
+as a libation to the gods.
+
+Again the minstrel took his harp and sang, and again Odysseus wept.
+Alkinoös noticed that the song of Demodokos moved Odysseus to tears,
+and thought it might be well to stay the music awhile and begin the
+games, that the stranger might witness the athletic skill of the
+Phæacians. All the princes instantly arose and walked down to the
+market-place, the king leading and the people following.
+
+When the chiefs had taken their seats a great number of young men
+hastened forward to begin the games. Some of them darted over the
+plain in a foot-race, raising a cloud of dust. Others strove with
+all their might in wrestling-matches, while some threw the quoit or
+played at boxing and leaping. After they had enjoyed looking at the
+games, Laodamas, a son of Alkinoös, said to his friends: "Let us ask
+the stranger to take part in the games. His strong arms and legs and
+powerful neck show that he is no weakling. Nor has he lost his youthful
+vigor after all his hardships, although nothing tires a man so much
+as being tossed about on the sea."
+
+Then the friends of Laodamas advised him to challenge Odysseus to
+take part in the games; and this seemed right to the prince, so he
+said to him: "Father, I think thou must be skilful in these games.
+Let us see thee try them. We will not delay thee long. Thy ship is
+ready for thee on the sea, and the crew is there, waiting. But there
+is no greater glory or pleasure for a man than to excel in swiftness
+of foot and strength of muscle."
+
+Odysseus answered him: "Why dost thou urge me, O Laodamas? How can
+I take part in the games or find any pleasure in them after all that
+I have suffered? Here I sit, a suppliant, praying to be sent back
+to my wife and home." Then Euryalos scoffed at him, saying: "Thou
+art right, stranger, for thy countenance shows thou art anything but
+an athlete.
+
+"Methinks thou art the owner of some merchant-vessel. Thou art a
+trader, whose head is full of bargains. Such men can take heed of
+nothing except how to increase wealth."
+
+These mocking words vexed Odysseus, and he retorted: "My friend, thou
+dost not speak like a man of good mind. The gods do not bestow their
+gifts equally on all men. To thee they have given great beauty, but
+they have denied thee wit. Thy words carry no weight. Learn, then,
+that I am not unskilled in the games. When I was young and strong
+I was one of the best athletes. But even now, after all my shipwrecks
+and hardships, I will strive with thee, for thy words are offensive
+and challenge me to the proof."
+
+Having said this, Odysseus seized a much larger and heavier quoit
+than the Phæacian prince could use, and swinging it in his powerful
+hand he hurled it forth. The stone whirred through the air and fell
+to the ground away beyond the marks of the other disks. Then Athena
+took the form of a Phæacian and set a mark where the quoit fell, and
+exclaimed as she did so: "Stranger, even a blind man could easily
+find thy mark, for it is far beyond the others. Sit down in peace
+and do not fear that anybody else can throw so far." Odysseus was
+pleased when he heard these friendly words. With a light heart he
+said to the Phæacian youths: "Reach my mark, if you can, young men,
+and I will send a stone farther yet. But if you cannot reach it, and
+prefer a match at boxing or wrestling or foot-race, come forth. I
+am ready to try any of the games with you. I can throw a spear farther
+than any of you can shoot an arrow. I fear nothing unless it may be
+the foot-race, for I have lost my strength with want of food and being
+tossed by the waves."
+
+He ended, and King Alkinoös stepped forward, for the young men were
+all silent. "Stranger," he said, "thou art our dearly loved guest,
+and no one can doubt thy bravery. We do not boast that we are fine
+boxers or wrestlers. We excel in the dance and are unsurpassed in
+sailing ships. Come, then, young men, show your skill in dancing,
+that our guest may tell his people when he reaches his home how much
+we outdo all others in that art. And let a herald hasten to the palace
+and bring the lyre of Demodokos, which has been left there."
+
+The young men arranged themselves in two rows on the polished floors
+and began the dance, while the minstrel, standing in their midst,
+played on the lyre and sang most sweetly. Odysseus looked on and
+greatly admired the swift and rhythmical movements of their feet.
+All danced very well; but two of the sons of the king came out and
+danced alone, for none of the others equalled them. One of them held
+a golden ball in his hand, and bending backward threw it so high that
+it seemed to touch the clouds. The other sprang up and caught it easily
+before it touched the ground.
+
+They both danced, going through intricate and rhythmical figures,
+while the other young men stood around in a circle and clapped their
+hands, keeping time. Then Odysseus said to Alkinoös: "Truly, no one
+excels the Phæacian princes in dancing. I see the twinkling of their
+feet with amazement."
+
+These words pleased Alkinoös greatly, and he said to his people:
+"Listen, my chiefs, for our guest seems to be a wise man. It becomes
+us now to bestow upon him the gifts of hospitality. In this land there
+are twelve kings. I am the thirteenth. Let each one of us bring a
+fine cloak, and a tunic, and a talent of gold, that our guest may
+see them before he partakes of the evening banquet. And let Euryalos,
+who spoke such scoffing words to him, try to win back his friendship
+and bring a costly gift." All the chiefs approved the words of King
+Alkinoös, and each one sent a servant to his house to bring a valuable
+present.
+
+Euryalos cheerfully obeyed the king. He brought a brass sword with
+a silver hilt to Odysseus, and said: "My father, if I have uttered
+any offensive word to thee, may the winds scatter all remembrance
+of it. May the gods grant thee a speedy return to thy country, where
+thou shalt see thy wife and friends from whom thou hast so long been
+separated."
+
+Odysseus answered: "Hail to thee, also, my friend! May the gods give
+thee all that there is good, and may no need of this sword ever come
+to thee." Odysseus took the sword and threw it across his shoulders.
+
+The sun had set, and the servants carried the gifts to the royal palace,
+where the queen took care of them. King Alkinoös led the way to the
+palace, his guest at his side and the princes following. When they
+had taken their seats on high thrones, the king told his wife to lay
+the royal presents in a chest, adding a much richer cloak and tunic
+than anyone else had given as a gift from himself.
+
+Aretè did as her husband wished, and placed a beautiful cup of gold
+also in the chest, and led Odysseus up to look at the presents. Then
+she taught him how to lock the chest and unlock it, and her maids
+called him to a warm bath, after which he anointed himself with
+fragrant oil and put on fresh garments.
+
+While he was wending his way to the men who sat before their wine,
+he met Nausicaä in her goddess-like beauty, standing near a pillar.
+"Stranger, farewell," she said. "I wish thee joy and a safe return
+to thy native land. Do not forget that I was the first to befriend
+thee in the land of the Phæacians."
+
+Odysseus answered: "May the gods be as sure to favor my return to
+my home as I shall be to make a prayer daily in thy behalf, fair maiden,
+who hath saved my life." Then Odysseus entered the great hall and
+took his place at the feast.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XII
+ODYSSEUS RELATES HIS ADVENTURES
+
+
+When they had all eaten and drunk to their hearts' content, the hero
+begged Demodokos to sing about the invention of the wooden horse with
+which Odysseus had artfully tricked the Trojans to their own
+destruction.
+
+The minstrel felt the inspiration of the song, and began where the
+Greeks threw firebrands into their own tents and sailed away from
+Troy, pretending that they had given up the war.
+
+He told how the Trojans wondered what to do with the huge wooden horse
+which the enemy had left in their city, whether to hew it to pieces
+and burn it, or to drag it to the edge of a high rock and throw it
+over, or whether to spare it as an act of reverence to the gods. This
+last was done, and in the night Odysseus and his men came out of the
+great wooden trap and set fire to the city while the men of Troy slept.
+
+As Demodokos sang, tears rolled down the cheeks of Odysseus. but no
+one noticed his weeping except the king, who said: "It is better to
+stop the song of Demodokos, as it does not delight us all. Ever since
+the bard began to sing, our guest has been weeping. He carries some
+great trouble in his heart. Let the song cease, and let us all make
+merry. Let no grief mar our banquet. And, honored stranger, tell us
+the name of thy father, and the city which is thy home. Our seamen
+shall take thee safely to thine own land, although there is a prophecy
+that one of our good ships shall be changed into a high rock, to stand
+forever in front of our city, if we show such courtesies to strangers.
+
+"Tell us truly who thou art and whither thou hast roamed, what tribes
+of men thou hast seen, and why thou dost weep when the minstrel sings
+of Troy. Didst thou lose a noble kinsman there, or a dear friend?
+For a friend is often dearer than a brother." Odysseus replied: "In
+truth, O king, it is a pleasant thing to listen to a bard like Demodokos,
+for his voice is as sweet as the voice of a god.
+
+"And I cannot think of anything more delightful than the joy of a
+contented people listening to a great poet and singer while seated
+at a feast in a royal hall. But I pine to be at home, and I will declare
+my name and tell the story of my sufferings.
+
+"I am the chieftain Odysseus, son of Laertes, and widely known to
+fame. I dwell in sunny Ithaca, whose high mountains are seen from
+afar, covered with rustling trees. Around it are many smaller islands,
+full of people. Ithaca has low shores on the east. It is a rugged
+island, but it is the sweetest land on earth, and has a noble race
+of mortals. When the Trojan war was at an end, I started for home
+with my twelve ships, but a contrary wind drove us to Ismaros, the
+city of the Kikonians.
+
+"We captured it and put the inhabitants to the sword. Then I exhorted
+my comrades to fly, but, like madmen, they remained on the sea-shore.
+Then they slaughtered a large number of sheep and oxen and made a
+feast. The Kikonians called on their strong neighbors to come and
+help them, and they came in swarms with their brazen spears. They
+fell upon our men and killed six of them from each ship, and drove
+the rest back to their boats.
+
+"Brisk handling of our oars soon carried us out into the sea, but
+Jove sent a hurricane that tore our sails and split our masts, so
+that our sailors drew them into the ships in fear. Two days and nights
+we lay helpless in our boats, worn out with fear and grief, but the
+third day the sun shone on us again, and we raised the masts and sails
+to take the breeze, hoping to reach our own land."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIII
+THE LOTUS-EATERS AND THE CYCLOPS
+
+
+"We sailed onward in a westerly direction, heading for the Grecian
+shore, and thought our trials would soon be at an end. But in this
+we were disappointed, for when we were about to round the cape at
+the southern point of Greece, we met an evil wind which always blows
+there, and it drove us far to the east, beyond the island of Cythera.
+
+"Nine days and nine nights we were driven about on the sea by the
+violent storm, and on the tenth we reached the land of the Lotus-eaters.
+These men eat flowers that look like water-lilies, and they have no
+other food. We landed on the shore of the mainland, and my comrades
+took their evening meal close to the boats.
+
+"When our hunger was satisfied, I sent out two of the best men to
+explore the country about and find out what sort of people the
+Lotus-eaters were. I sent a herald with them, whom they might send
+back with the news.
+
+"They soon found themselves among the Lotus-eaters, who were gentle
+and friendly, and gave them the lotus plant to eat. This food is
+pleasant to the taste, but dangerous; for anyone who eats of it loses
+all desire to return to his own home. He forgets his cares and troubles,
+but also his friends.
+
+"As soon as my comrades had eaten of the lotus, they became attached
+to the Lotus-eaters, and desired to remain with them. They wept
+bitterly when I commanded them to return to the ships, and I was
+obliged to force them to go.
+
+"I bound them down to the benches in the ships, and the whole company
+went on board in haste lest they should never think of their homes
+again. Each man bent to his oars, and the waves were soon white with
+the beating of the ships against them as we sailed with all haste
+in the direction of our own land.
+
+"We sailed about on unknown seas and with sorrowing hearts until we
+came to the land of the Cyclops. They are a wild people who have no
+laws. They never plough the fields nor plant them, for everything
+grows of its own accord--wheat, and barley, and the vine. The grapes
+yield good wine. The Cyclops do not come together in a friendly way,
+but live in caves near the mountain tops, each one in his own den.
+They do not care much for one another, and each rules his wife and
+children as he likes.
+
+"There is a little woody island lying at the entrance to the land
+of the Cyclops, on which swarm numberless wild goats, never disturbed
+by human beings, for the Cyclops have no ships to take them over.
+This island is very fertile, but there are no sheep to eat the grass
+and no people to plough the fields. The goats are the only inhabitants.
+The island has a harbor which is safe, and the ships that enter it
+have no need of anchors or fastenings.
+
+"In the midst of the harbor there is a cliff, from which bubbles forth
+a spring of excellent water, and poplar-trees grow all around it.
+The soil is so rich it might bear all kinds of fruit, if there were
+anyone to plant them. There are beautiful meadows all along the coast,
+which are gay with yellow fruit and pink blossoms.
+
+"We were shaping our course toward this island, and a good breeze
+brought us there on a dark night. The moon did not shine and none
+of the crew saw the land until we were upon the shore. We lowered
+our sails and rested there until morning. When daylight appeared we
+beheld with wonder the island where the wild goats abounded. My
+comrades walked around, admiring the beauty of the place, while the
+nymphs, daughters of Zeus, roused the goats that they might give us
+milk. We took our bows and arrows from the ships immediately and,
+forming three hunting-parties, killed a great number of the nimble
+creatures. Each of my twelve ships received nine goats as its share,
+but mine received ten. The remainder of the day we passed in eating
+and drinking."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIV
+THE CAVE OF THE CYCLOPS
+
+
+"The next day I started with twelve men, the crew of my own ship,
+to find out what kind of men inhabited the country opposite us, leaving
+all the other boats and their men on the island. When we sailed up
+to the coast of the mainland, we heard the voices of giants, and the
+bleating of their sheep and goats. And we saw a cave with a high roof,
+over whose entrance grew laurel shrubs, and many cattle, sheep, and
+goats were lying around at rest. We found an enclosure of rough stone
+in the form of a court, with tall pines and leafy oaks at the mouth
+of the cave.
+
+"The largest giant of all the race of Cyclops dwelt there and took
+care of his cattle all alone. Usually he spent his time prowling all
+by himself around the mountains. He had nothing to do with his
+neighbors, but led a solitary life, plotting wicked deeds. He looked
+more like a huge mountain top, with shaggy overhanging forests,
+towering above other mountains, than a human being.
+
+"We were soon inside the cave, but we did not find the owner at home.
+We had carried with us a wine-skin full of wine which a priest of
+Apollo had given us. The wine was very fragrant and so pleasant that
+no one who had once tasted it, could let it alone. We had taken along
+a basket of food also, for fear of meeting with men of great strength
+and no sense of the courtesy due to strangers.
+
+"As we looked around the cave we wondered at what we saw. There were
+baskets all about heaped with cheeses, and pens of lambs separated
+into three folds, the older in one pen, the younger in another, and
+the youngest in a third. And there were pails full of whey, and buckets
+of milk. My companions ate as much of the cheese as they liked, after
+which they begged to drive all the lambs and kids down to the ship.
+
+"But I would not allow this. It was my wish to stay there and see
+the cave-dweller and find out what kind of a man he was. I thought
+he would give me a handsome present, according to the laws of
+hospitality. It was cold in the cave, so we lit a fire and sat down
+to wait for the owner to arrive.
+
+"He came toward evening, carrying a load of wood on his back, which
+he threw down with such a crash that my men ran with terror into the
+corners of the cave. The giant drove all such sheep and goats as would
+give him milk into the cave, leaving the others in the outside court,
+and then closed up the entrance with a rock so large that twenty-four
+four-wheeled wagons could not have moved it. Having done this, he
+sat down and milked the sheep and goats and gave to each its young
+one.
+
+"Next, he curdled half of the milk and put the curd into woven baskets,
+but he kept the other half for his evening meal. When he had ended
+this work he lit a fire, and seeing the strangers he began to ask
+them questions, to find out who they were. His voice was deep and
+frightful, like the rumbling of a volcano, and our hearts trembled,
+but I found words to answer him: 'We are Greeks, and come from Troy.
+It was our intention to return home, but contrary winds have driven
+us on this shore.
+
+"'We belong to the army of Agamemnon, whose fame is very great because
+he has overcome a strong city and conquered many nations. But now
+we throw ourselves at thy feet and pray that thou wilt receive us
+as guests, or else give us the gifts that are due to strangers, lest
+the gods avenge us.'
+
+"Having said this, I stopped, but the Cyclops told us that we were
+fools to believe in the gods. 'The Cyclops,' he said, 'care nothing
+for the gods. We are better than they are. If I spare thee it will
+be of my own free will, and not for fear of the gods. But where are
+thy ships? Are they near here or far off?' This he said hoping to
+deceive us, but I saw through his trick, and replied: 'The storm has
+thrown our ships upon the cliffs and broken them to pieces, and we
+had to swim for our lives.'
+
+"The cruel monster did not answer me again, but he seized two of my
+companions and dashed them to the ground with such force that they
+died on the spot. He devoured them as a lion devours his prey. He
+left nothing of them, neither bones nor flesh nor hair. We wept aloud
+and prayed to Zeus with our hearts full of despair."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XV
+THE BLINDING OF THE CYCLOPS
+
+
+"When the monster had filled himself with food, he stretched out on
+the floor of the cave to sleep. Then the thought came to me to thrust
+a sword into his heart. But this was not a wise course to take, because
+we should never have been able to remove the stone from the entrance
+to the cave.
+
+"We passed the night in mourning and lamentations. As soon as daylight
+appeared, the Cyclops woke up and lit a fire and milked his sheep
+again. Then he seized two more of my companions and devoured them.
+When his morning meal was done he rolled the stone back from the door
+and drove his beasts out, not forgetting to secure the entrance. We
+could hear his noisy shouts afar off as he led his flocks over the
+grassy heights, and we began to make plans to destroy him.
+
+"We found a great club of green olive-wood in the cave; one that the
+Cyclops had cut for his own use. It was as large as the mast of a
+ship, and he had laid it away to dry. I cut off a fathom's length
+from this club and handed the piece to my companions, who smoothed
+off its sides and sharpened it at one end. This being done, I put
+the sharp end of it into the fire. The stick became very hard, and
+then I hid the weapon under a heap of litter which was piled up in
+the cave. We cast lots to see who should assist me to put out the
+eye of the Cyclops when he was asleep.
+
+"When evening came the Cyclops returned to the cave with his fat sheep
+and kids. He seemed to suspect that there was mischief afoot, for
+he did not leave any of them outside. After milking the ewes and goats
+he again seized two of my companions and made his supper of them.
+But I filled a large drinking-vessel with the wine from our wine-skin
+and stepped boldly out and said to him: 'Here is a cup of wine which
+I brought, hoping that thou wouldst spare my life, O Cyclops, for
+thy wrath is boundless.' He took the cup and drank. The wine delighted
+him greatly, and he handed me the cup after emptying it and said:
+'Give me another draught and tell me thy name. I will give thee a
+generous gift, such as becomes a host. We, too, have wine, but not
+such as yours. That tastes like nectar and ambrosia.'
+
+"Three times I filled the cup and brought it to him, and three times
+the Cyclops drank it like a madman. When the wine had overpowered
+him, I said to him: 'Cyclops, thou dost wish to know my name, and
+I will tell it, but thou must give me the present thou hast promised.
+My name is Nobody. My father and mother gave me this name and my friends
+all call me by it.' 'Then,' said the Cyclops, 'I shall eat Nobody
+last of all. This is my present.'
+
+"After these words he fell asleep and, being very drunk, he began
+to spew out the wine and flesh he had taken. I took the piece of
+olive-wood which my men had sharpened and put the point of it into
+the fire and held it there until it was a glowing coal. My comrades
+stood near me and I encouraged them with brave words. We thrust the
+burning stick into the Cyclops' eye and put it out. He howled with
+pain, and, stung to madness, he seized the stick and flung it across
+the cave.
+
+"He called to the other Cyclops, who lived in divers caves on the
+surrounding mountains, while we hid ourselves in fear in the most
+remote corners of the cave. The giants heard him and came running
+to help him, but they could not get into the cave. They stood near
+the stone, close to the door, and called out: 'What ails thee,
+Polyphemus? Is anyone trying to kill thee?' 'Woe is me!' cried
+Polyphemus, 'Nobody is trying to kill me.' 'Then why dost thou shout
+and cry for help?' said they. 'If nobody hurts thee, then thou art
+not hurt.'
+
+"With these words they went off, and we rejoiced greatly that my trick
+had deceived them."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVI
+ODYSSEUS AND HIS COMPANIONS LEAVE THE LAND OF THE CYCLOPS
+
+
+"Polyphemus, groaning with pain, tried to feel his way with his hands
+to the mouth of the cavern. Having succeeded in this, he rolled back
+the stone and sat down at the entrance and stretched out his hands
+in order to catch us if we should happen to try to get out among the
+sheep.
+
+"But we were not so foolish as to be caught in this way. There were
+in the cave a number of stout and woolly rams. Of these I put three
+abreast and tied them together with twigs that happened to be in the
+cave. Under each middle ram I tied one of my companions. The two sheep,
+one on each side of him, hid the man completely. For myself I selected
+the stoutest ram of the flock, and, seizing his long shaggy wool with
+my hands, held fast to him with my knees and arms.
+
+"The sun rose and the animals began to hasten out to the pastures.
+The Cyclops, though nearly exhausted with pain, passed his hands over
+the backs of the sheep to find out whether any of us were trying to
+ride out of the cave. He did not find out our trick, and my companions
+all escaped safely. Last of all, the ram that carried me came to the
+door, because I was so heavy that he could hardly walk with me hanging
+to him.
+
+"Polyphemus felt of his back and recognized him at once as his favorite
+ram, and said: 'Dearest of all my sheep, why dost thou go last?
+Commonly thou wert the first of the flock to hasten to the rich pasture
+and the cool spring, just as thou wert the first in the evening to
+return to thy manger. But to-day thou art last of all. Dost thou grieve
+because thy master hath lost his eye, which Nobody has put out? But
+wait a little. He shall not escape death. Couldst thou only speak,
+my ram, thou wouldst tell me at once where the scoundrel is; then
+thou shouldst see how I would dash him against the rocks.'
+
+"Speaking such words as these, he let the ram go. When we were safely
+out of the cave, we gladly took to our feet and drove the fat sheep
+down to our boat with all haste. Our friends received us with tears
+of joy, for they thought we had surely perished. I made signs to them
+not to weep aloud, and to hurry the sheep on board the ship. They
+did this with all haste, and each man took his place at the oars.
+
+"When we were beyond the reach of the Cyclops, I called out to tease
+him, 'Ha! Cyclops, Cyclops, thou hast not been entertaining a coward.
+Zeus and the other gods have avenged the brave men whom thou didst
+so cruelly destroy.'
+
+"The Cyclops heard my words and grew furious. He seized a large rock
+and threw it with all his might toward the place where he had heard
+my voice.
+
+"The rock fell in front of my ship, and the waves which it raised
+carried us back on shore. I seized a large pole and shoved the boat
+back into the water, commanding my men to ply their oars vigorously,
+that we might escape destruction. My companions begged me not to
+excite the dangerous monster further; but when we were a long way
+out I shouted to him: 'Cyclops, if ever anybody asks thee who put
+out thine eye, tell him it was Odysseus, the son of Laertes, conqueror
+of Troy.'
+
+"When Polyphemus heard these words he gave a deep groan, and said
+to me: 'Truly did the wise seer, Telemos, foretell that I was to be
+blinded by Odysseus. But I thought there would come a large and
+powerful man, not such an insignificant little fellow who would cheat
+me with wine. Come back, Odysseus, and let me bestow upon you the
+gifts which are due to strangers. I will pray to my father, Poseidon,
+to give thee a safe and speedy return to thy native land. He can restore
+my eye whenever he will, so I cherish no anger against thee.'
+
+"I knew his deceit, however, and replied: 'I would rather take thy
+life, and send thee down to the dark halls of the dead, where thy
+father could never restore thy sight.'
+
+"As soon as Polyphemus heard this, he raised his hands to heaven and
+prayed to Poseidon, 'My father,' he said, 'hear me, if in truth I
+am thy son. Grant me this prayer. May Odysseus never return to his
+own country, or, if it be thy will that he reach home and friends
+again, let his return be late and sorrowful. May his comrades all
+be lost, and may he go back in a borrowed ship, and find new troubles
+waiting for him in his house.'
+
+"Poseidon was moved to wrath against me by this prayer, and determined
+to take vengeance on me. The Cyclops seized another stone, much larger
+than the last, and swinging it round, threw it at us with tremendous
+strength. It fell close to the ship, but this time it drove the boat
+out into the sea and in the direction of the island where we first
+landed.
+
+"When we reached the island we found the friends we had left there
+waiting anxiously for our return. My men drew their boat up on to
+the smooth sand and stepped upon the beach, taking the sheep along
+with them. Each man took an equal share, but they gave me the ram
+which had saved my life. We took him out upon the beach and offered
+him up as a sacrifice to Zeus.
+
+"But sacrifices were vain, for Zeus had more evil for us in his mind.
+We spent the rest of the day on the island, eating and drinking, and
+when the sun went down we camped on the shore for the night. In the
+morning I called my men to climb the decks and cut the ropes that
+kept us fastened to the shore. With all speed they went aboard and
+took their oars in hand and set sail for home, glad to escape, but
+sorrowing for our lost companions."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVII
+THE ADVENTURES OF ODYSSEUS ON THE ISLAND OF ÆOLUS
+
+
+"We sailed about on unknown seas for many days, when we reached the
+island where Æolus made his abode. This island was surrounded by
+smooth rocks and guarded by a wall of shining brass.
+
+"Æolus had twelve children, six sons and six daughters, and they
+banqueted on an endless variety of meats from day to day all the year
+round. Æolus was a kindly, genial god; he was master of the winds,
+and one could hear the music of sweet pipes in his halls all day,
+and the air was fresh and fragrant there.
+
+"Æolus welcomed us hospitably and kept us with him a whole month.
+He inquired of the fate of all our companions in the war with Troy,
+and we stated what had happened to them. Then we prayed him to send
+us home, and the god very kindly gave us a sack made of skin in which
+he had tied up all the contrary winds, leaving only the west wind
+free to carry us safely home.
+
+"I took the great bag of winds and bound it fast to the main mast
+of the ship with a silver chain, so that no rude wind could escape
+and blow us out of our way. We sailed along nine days and nine nights,
+blown by the friendly breeze from the west, and on the tenth we saw
+in the distance the mountain tops of Ithaca and the fires along the
+shore.
+
+"And now I was overcome by a heavy sleep, for I had been guiding the
+ship, not daring to trust it to the hand of any of the crew. While
+I lay unconscious of what was going on, my companions talked among
+themselves and said they believed that the bag which Æolus had given
+me contained vast amounts of gold and silver. And they spoke with
+great jealousy of the prizes which I had received wherever we had
+landed, while they went empty-handed.
+
+"The more they talked to one another the more jealous and angry they
+grew. They untied the sack and the winds rushed out, much to their
+astonishment, and seized the ship, driving it round and round in a
+furious storm. I started out of my sleep suddenly and found the bag
+open I had so carefully guarded and my companions weeping bitterly.
+
+"For a moment I had a mind to throw myself into the sea and make an
+end of my troubles forever. But the thought came to me that such an
+action would not be noble, so I hid my head in my mantle and lay down
+in the bottom of the ship while the violent winds and towering waves
+drove us back to the island we had left. We landed there again, and,
+having partaken of some food and wine, I sought the halls of Æolus.
+
+"I found the king and his wife and children at table taking their
+evening meal. When Æolus saw me he was amazed, and asked me what had
+happened to me. I told him about the senseless action of my companions,
+and begged him to assist me once more. But with a terrible voice he
+replied: 'Begone as fast as thou canst out of my island. I will not
+befriend a man who is hated of the gods.' In this unkind way he sent
+me off, and we sadly entered our ships and made for the open sea,
+trusting to the mercy of the winds."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVIII
+ODYSSEUS AT THE HOME OF CIRCÈ
+
+
+"For six days and six nights we sailed without interruption, but on
+the seventh day we reached the city of the Læstrygonians. There the
+pastures are so rich in grass that the fields, which are grazed by
+one flock of sheep during the day, yield abundant food for another
+flock by night. The inhabitants were not only inhospitable, but they
+received us with a shower of stones, which they hurled at us and at
+our galleys. They broke our ships and killed my companions, spearing
+them like fish. Then they carried them ashore to be devoured. With
+the greatest difficulty I succeeded in saving one ship and a few
+companions from the hands of these giants, and I fled with them out
+to the high sea.
+
+"Sadly we continued our course until we reached an island, where the
+goddess Circè, a daughter of the Sun and Ocean, lived. We landed
+silently, and gave two days and nights to rest, for we were worn out
+with toil and grief. On the third day I climbed to the top of a high
+hill and looked over the island. Down below I saw a marble palace,
+surrounded by a thick forest. There was smoke rising from the grounds,
+so I resolved to return to my men and send out some of them to look
+about and explore.
+
+"A large stag ran down into my path, on his way to a river to drink,
+and I thrust my spear through him and flung him across my neck and
+took him to the ship. I threw him at the feet of my men, who were
+astonished at his size. They prepared a banquet at once, and we feasted
+upon the meat.
+
+"That night we slept on the shore again, and in the morning I told
+them that I had seen a palace standing in a thick wood, and that I
+wanted to send several men there to try to get food. When my companions
+thought of all their comrades who had been slain they wept aloud.
+But their tears were useless. I divided them into two equal bands,
+and we cast lots to see which party should make the adventure.
+
+"The lot fell to Eurylochos and his band of men. They started forth,
+and soon came to a beautiful valley, in which was the splendid house
+of Circè, which was built of well-hewn stone. There were beasts of
+prey, lions and wolves, around it. The animals were tame; they wagged
+their tails and fawned like dogs, but the men were afraid of them.
+Circè was weaving in the palace and singing a beautiful song. She
+had bright, sunny hair and a sweet voice. The men heard her as she
+went back and forth weaving, and they called aloud. She came to the
+door and threw it wide open and bade them enter.
+
+"Eurylochos alone did not go in, for he feared that some evil would
+come of it. The others followed her, and Circè seated them on thrones
+and gave them food and wine, but in the wine she had secretly infused
+a magic juice which made them forget home and friends and all desire
+to see their native land.
+
+"When they had eaten and drunk to their hearts' content, she waved
+her wand over them, and at once the poor wretches were changed into
+grunting pigs, which she shut up in pigsties and threw acorns and
+other food fit for swine before them. Although thus transformed and
+covered with bristles, they still retained the human mind.
+
+"Eurylochos stayed a long time outside awaiting the return of his
+companions. But as they tarried so long, he hastened back to the ship
+to tell the news. Thereupon I quickly hung my sword over my shoulder
+and, taking my bow and arrows, hurried off alone, and soon found myself
+not far from Circè's palace."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIX
+CIRCÈ INSTRUCTS ODYSSEUS CONCERNING HIS DESCENT TO HADES
+
+
+"As I lingered in that dangerous valley there appeared to me a youth
+whom I knew at once to be Hermes, the messenger of the gods. He gently
+took hold of my hand and, looking compassionately on me, said: 'Thou
+most unhappy man! Why art thou roaming alone in these wild parts?
+Or art thou bound on the errand of delivering thy friends who have
+all been changed by Circè into swine? Much do I fear that thou mayest
+meet with the same fate. Listen to my words and heed them well if
+thou wouldst destroy the treacherous schemes of Circè.
+
+"'Take this little flower. Its name is Moly among the gods, and no
+wicked sorcery can hurt the man who treasures it carefully. Its root
+is black. Its blossom is as white as milk, and it is hard for men
+to tear it from the ground. Take this herb and go fearlessly into
+the dwelling of the sorceress; it will guard thee against all mishap.
+She will bring thee a bowl of wine mingled with the juice of
+enchantment, but do not fear to eat or drink anything she may offer
+thee, and when she touches thy head with her magic wand, then rush
+upon her quickly with drawn sword as though about to slay her. She
+will crouch in fear and entreat thee with soft words to spare her.
+But do not give way to her until she has pledged herself by the great
+oath of the gods to do thee no harm.'
+
+"When Hermes had spoken thus he left me, to return to high Olympos,
+and I walked to the house of Circè with a braver heart. As I came
+near the palace I called out to the goddess with a loud voice, and
+she threw open the doors for me to enter. She bade me sit down on
+a beautiful throne and placed a golden foot-stool under my feet. Then
+she gave me the dangerous cup and I drank it off, but her charm did
+not work.
+
+"Scarcely had I drained the cup when the goddess struck me with her
+wand and said: 'Off with you! Go to the pigsty, where friends await
+thy coming!' In a twinkling I had my sword in hand and rushed upon
+her as if to kill her. Circè shrieked with fear and fell on her knees
+to implore my mercy. 'Who art thou and whence dost thou come?' said
+Circè. 'Thou art the first man over whom my magic wine has had no
+power. Art thou really that Odysseus of whom Hermes told me that he
+was to come here after many wanderings? But put up thy sword and cease
+to be angry with me and let us trust each other.'
+
+"I answered her: 'O, goddess, how can I have faith in thy words, since
+thou hast changed my companions into swine and dost plot the same
+fate for me? Swear me the great oath that thou wilt not harm me, and
+I shall trust thy words.'
+
+"Circè at once took the great oath, that she would never again try
+to do me any harm, and she ordered her servants to spread a feast
+before me. But I had no desire to eat. I sat down in silence, my mind
+full of grief and doubt.
+
+"When Circè saw that I did not touch the food she said: 'Why art thou
+so quiet and speechless? And why dost thou not taste the food and
+wine? I have pledged myself by the great oath to do thee no harm!'
+But I answered: 'What man with a loyal heart, O goddess, could eat
+and drink with any pleasure while his comrades are kept in bondage
+and degradation? If thou art really kind and wouldst have me enjoy
+this bounteous feast, O let me see my dear companions free once more!'
+
+"The goddess took her wand and went to the pen and drove out the swine.
+She then anointed them with a magic ointment, and their bristles fell
+off and they stood up and were men again. They knew me, and each one
+seized my hand, shedding tears of joy. Then I sent for the rest of
+my men at the ship, who eagerly came up, and together we entered the
+halls of Circè, all of us weeping with joy.
+
+"Circè's heart was softened also, and she said to me: 'Son of Laertes,
+noble Odysseus, do not weep and grieve any longer. I know what
+hardships thou hast endured on land and sea. Take courage, for thy
+sufferings will soon be at an end. Go down to the sea and hide thy
+boat near the shore and come back to my halls, thou and all thy men,
+where I will make it a happy home for all until thou art rested and
+ready to sail again for thy native land.'
+
+"We stayed a whole year on the island of Circè, feasting and enjoying
+ourselves, and fully recovered our strength. The desire of reaching
+my beloved Ithaca grew stronger within me day by day, and at last
+I begged Circè to allow us to depart. 'I am not willing, O son of
+Laertes,' Circè answered, 'that thou shouldst remain here against
+thy wish, but it is necessary that thou shouldst, before departing
+from my island, descend into Hades, to the palace of Pluto and
+Persephone, to consult the spirit of the Theban seer, Tiresias, on
+whom Persephone has bestowed the priceless gift of preserving his
+memory even in Hades, whereas all the other souls are moving about
+as empty shadows.'
+
+"Hearing this, I grew desperate and no longer had any desire to live
+or see the light of day. I said to the goddess: 'Who will show me
+the way to Hades? for no living mortal has ever gone there before.'
+She replied: 'Do not worry about a guide, Odysseus, for there will
+be no need of one. Launch thy boat, unfurl the sails, and quietly
+sit down. The north wind will waft thee to the shore of Hades. There
+flows the river Styx, black and terrible. It flows between the poplars
+and willows in the groves of Persephone, and meets the broad waters
+of Okeanos. Sail up its dark stream until thou dost reach the rock
+where its two branches meet and swirl and roar. There leave thy boat
+and dig a ditch in the ground, a foot deep and a foot wide, in which
+thou shalt pour honey, milk, wine, and water as an offering to the
+dead.
+
+"'At the same time pray to the gods of Hades, and promise the shades
+of the dead that after thou hast arrived in Ithaca thou wilt sacrifice
+to them a whole heifer, the best of thy flock, and to Tiresias
+especially a black ram. Then take two sheep, a male and a female,
+kill them, and burn them as a sacrifice to the nations of the dead.
+
+"'At once there will arrive the souls of the departed. They will come
+by thousands, anxious to drink of the blood, that they may have their
+minds again. But draw thy sword and hold them back until the spirit
+of Tiresias arrives. He will tell thee how to get back to thy native
+land.'
+
+"As Circè said this the daylight appeared, and I woke my companions
+and told them to make ready to go with me. We started at once for
+our ship, and got everything in readiness to leave. I told them that
+before setting out for our own country we had, by the advice of Circè,
+to go down to Hades in order to consult the seer Tiresias about our
+journey. When they heard this they sat down, and wept, and began to
+tear the hair from their heads.
+
+"Circè meantime came up by stealth, and put two sheep into the ship,
+and we sailed sadly away."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XX
+THE ADVENTURES OF ODYSSEUS IN HADES
+
+
+"With a heavy heart we sailed from Circè's island bound for the gloomy
+Hades. As the wind was favorable, we soon reached the place of which
+the goddess had told us. There we left the ship and did those things
+which Circè had counselled us to do. As soon as the dark blood of
+the sheep began to flow into the trench countless souls came flocking
+from Hades and begged to taste of the blood, that their mortal minds
+might be restored to them.
+
+"Young wives and girls, old men and young warriors who had fallen
+in battle, airy forms, ghosts of all kinds of people, flitted like
+bats around me in that dark place with fearful cries, and I turned
+pale with fear. I drew my sword and waved them back until I should
+question the soul of Tiresias.
+
+"But first came the soul of Elpenor, one of my companions who had
+gone with me to the palace of Circè. We had left him dead in the halls
+of the goddess, since we had no time to bury him. Now, when I saw
+him a great pity stirred my heart, and I shed tears and said to him:
+'Elpenor, how didst thou come into these dread regions of darkness?
+Thou hast come more quickly on foot than I in my quick ship.'
+
+"The phantom knew me, for, being as yet unburied, he was not one of
+the shades, and had not lost his memory or voice, nor did he need
+to drink of the blood. He moaned and replied: 'Noble Odysseus, it
+was an evil fate which the gods had decreed for me. I drank too much
+wine and that caused my death. I lay down to sleep on the roof of
+Circè's palace and could not remember the way to the stairs when thou
+didst call us to the ships. In my haste I fell from the roof and broke
+my neck, and my soul came down to Hades.
+
+"'I pray thee now by all those whom thou dost love--thy wife, thy
+father, and thy son--that thou leave not my body unburied in the palace
+halls, lest I bring on thee the anger of the gods. But on thy return
+to Circè's isle burn my body, together with my armor, and pile up
+a mound of earth over my ashes. Plant my oar upon my tomb--the oar
+with which I used to row while I was living.'
+
+"I made the promise, but at this moment the soul of my mother, whom
+I had left hale and strong among the living when I went to the war,
+approached and tried to get at the trench. I wept to see her, but
+with a heavy heart I forbade her coming nearer until I had spoken
+with Tiresias. At this moment troops of souls came flocking out of
+Hades, and from the countless throng the Theban seer came leaning
+on a golden staff, and he ordered me to lay aside my sword and permit
+him to drink of the blood.
+
+"When he had drunk, he spoke to me and said: 'Odysseus, man of many
+woes, why dost thou leave the light of the sun and come down among
+the dead? Doubtless thy heart's desire is to return safely home. But
+much suffering is in store for thee. Poseidon will not permit it,
+because thou hast blinded his son, Polyphemus. Still, thou mayest
+overcome all difficulties and see Ithaca at last, if thou dost not
+harm the cattle and fat sheep of the Sun on the island of Trinacria.
+
+"'But if thou dost kill them and eat of their flesh, I warn thee that
+nothing will save thy comrades or thy ships. Even then thou mayest
+be saved, but it will be on a strange ship, alone, and after dreadful
+sufferings. And at home thou wilt find other misfortunes awaiting
+thee.
+
+"'There will be a mob of lawless men rioting in thy house, squandering
+thy riches, and trying to get thy wife to marry one of them. Thou
+shalt kill these violent men in thy halls by craft or in open fight.
+After that thou shalt reach a good and prosperous old age, and find
+a peaceful death far away from the sea. All that I tell thee shall
+surely happen.'"
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXI
+ODYSSEUS CONVERSES WITH HIS MOTHER AND AGAMEMNON
+
+
+"When Tiresias had gone, my mother came back to the dark trench and
+drank of the blood. She knew me at once and cried out: 'Oh, my child,
+how didst thou ever come down to this gloomy place alive? Art thou
+on thy way home from Troy? And hast thou not seen Ithaca yet, nor
+thy wife and child?'
+
+"I answered her: 'Dear mother, I was compelled to come down here in
+order to consult the soul of the prophet Tiresias about my return;
+for I have not yet touched foot to Grecian soil. I have been driven
+about on strange seas from year to year, and have suffered misfortune
+after misfortune. Oh, tell me, my mother, how didst thou die? Did
+some lingering disease waste thy life, or didst thou meet a sudden,
+painless death?
+
+"'Tell me of my father and of my son. Do they still hold rule over
+Ithaca? Or has someone snatched it away from them, thinking I was
+never to return? How fares my wife, Penelope? Is she still faithful
+to the husband of her youth, or has she married another?'
+
+"To all this my mother answered: 'My son, Penelope is in the home
+where thou didst leave her, and she weeps for thee day and night.
+Nobody has usurped thy kingdom, and Telemachos has charge of thy royal
+estates. But thy father dwells on thy farm, and shares the life of
+the servants. He seldom goes down to the city. The grief he feels
+for loss of thee has made him old, and will hasten his death, as it
+caused mine, for I could not live without thee.'
+
+"So spake my mother, and I longed to clasp her to my heart. Three
+times I threw my arms around her, and three times she passed through
+them like a shadow. Then I cried out in sorrow: 'Oh, my dear mother!
+why can I not clasp thee to my heart and hold thee in my arms, that
+we may lose for a while our sense of loneliness and misery?'
+
+"My mother spoke and said: 'It is the lot of all our race when they
+are dead. When life departs we have no bones and flesh, but the soul
+flies off and flits about from one place to another. Hasten back to
+the pleasant daylight, and when thou dost reach home tell thy wife
+what I have said.'
+
+"When my mother had gone, I saw the soul of Agamemnon approaching,
+together with the shades of those of his companions who had perished
+with him. The moment he had drunk of the blood he knew me and raised
+a loud wail. He stretched out his hands to me, and I tried to seize
+them, but I clutched only the empty air.
+
+"Then I began to weep, too, and said to him: 'Famous son of Atreus,
+King Agamemnon, tell me how thou didst die. Did Poseidon wreck thee
+on the sea in a terrible storm, or didst thou fall in war, fighting
+on the land?'
+
+"Whereupon the king told me the dire story of his home-coming and
+his death at traitors' hands. 'When I trod my native soil again after
+a long absence,' he said, 'I was overcome with joy at the thought
+of seeing my wife and children once more. But I was slain in my own
+home, and my wife did not even close my eyes as my soul came on its
+way to these dark realms.'
+
+"I answered: 'Alas! how the gods must hate the family of Atreus on
+account of the unfaithfulness of its women!'
+
+"Agamemnon replied: 'Oh, son of Laertes, thou art a fortunate man,
+for thou hast a faithful wife. Penelope is wise and virtuous. I
+remember, when we were ready to start for Troy she was a young wife
+with a little babe in her arms, which she pressed to her bosom. He
+must be a man now. Thou art a happy father. Thou wilt see thy son
+at home in Ithaca.
+
+"'No such good fortune can ever come to me. My wife did not even let
+me see my son before she slew me. Tell me about him, I beseech thee,
+how he is. Does he still live in Sparta?'
+
+"'Son of Atreus,' I said, 'do not ask me where thy son is. I cannot
+tell whether he is alive or not, and this is no time for idle
+conjectures;' and we wept as I spoke."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXII
+CONVERSATION WITH ACHILLES AND OTHER HEROES
+
+
+"While we were conversing thus, the shades of Achilles and Patroklos
+came near. The soul of Achilles recognized me, and he said: 'Odysseus,
+son of Laertes, how darest thou descend into the gloomy habitation
+of the dead? This is the greatest labor thou hast undertaken.'
+
+"I answered: 'Godlike Achilles, I came here to consult the seer
+Tiresias about my return to my own country, for I have never yet
+reached Grecian soil, but have wandered about suffering great
+misfortunes. No one is happier than thou art, O Achilles. When thou
+wert alive all men honored thee as if thou wert a god, and now thou
+art a king and rulest over the dead.'
+
+"Then he replied: 'Do not try to console me, Odysseus. I would rather
+be the slave of a poor man, and in the light of the sun, than to be
+in Hades and rule over all the dead. But tell me, Odysseus, how fares
+my noble son? Does he fight in the wars, and is he in the front ranks?
+And Peleus, my aged father, tell me of him. Is he still king of the
+Myrmidons? Or do they hold him in contempt, now that he is old, and
+I am not there to uphold him?'
+
+"I answered him: 'I know nothing about thy aged father, O Achilles,
+but I have many things to tell thee about thy son. I brought him from
+Skyros, myself, in a ship to Troy, and placed him in the Greek army.
+There he surpassed everyone except Nestor and myself in the wisdom
+of his advice, and when we went forth to battle he fought among the
+foremost, slaying many illustrious foes.
+
+"'Above all, his powers shone forth when we were hidden in the wooden
+horse. All the other leaders of the Greeks gave signs of fear. They
+grew white and shed tears; but his face never turned pale, and no
+tear came into his eyes. He called on me to leave the horse and rush
+upon the foe, and he smote the Trojans, carrying death and destruction
+among them. When we finally subdued the city, thy son took rich booty
+and safely reached his own country.'
+
+"As soon as Achilles heard this news he rejoiced. He strode proudly
+off over the field of Elysian asphodels, well pleased that he had
+left such a mighty son on earth.
+
+"After Achilles had departed, many other souls came and talked with
+me. Only the soul of Ajax kept aloof, still angry over a victory which
+I gained near the ships when I took the weapons of Achilles as my
+share of the booty. Little did that victory and the arms please me,
+since they caused the grave to close over such a hero as Ajax.
+
+"I spoke to his soul in gentle words: 'Ajax, son of Telamon, did not
+even death appease the anger against me which thou didst feel on
+account of my receiving the arms that brought such a calamity upon
+the Greeks? For thou wast our tower of strength, and the weapons proved
+fatal to thee. Come nearer and speak to me, for I bewail thy death.'
+I spoke soothingly yet Ajax gave no answer. His spirit vanished away
+among the other spirits.
+
+"Then I beheld Minos, the lawgiver of Crete, who held a golden sceptre
+in his hand and judged the dead. He had under him the great wrong-doers
+of one part of Hades. With him I saw Tantalos, who stood in a pool
+of water, suffering at the same time a painful thirst. As often as
+he tried to put his lips to the water it sank down away from him so
+that he could not reach it.
+
+"I saw Sisyphos, also, who suffered great punishment, for he rolled
+a large rock uphill with both hands, straining every muscle of his
+body to the utmost to move it. No sooner had he pushed it to the top
+of the hill than it rolled back with deafening noise to the bottom
+of the valley. Again the unfortunate man toiled to move it upward,
+the sweat covering his body and clouds of dust hovering over his head.
+
+"Then I saw the shade of Herakles, but the hero himself sits among
+the gods on Mount Olympos. And there came myriads of souls, making
+a terrible noise, which filled me with dread, lest I might look upon
+the Gorgon, and I hastened back to the ship. I ordered the crew to
+go on board, and they took their oars and rowed until we reached the
+open sea, where favorable winds caught by the sails wafted us back
+to Circè's isle."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIII
+THE RETURN OF ODYSSEUS TO THE ISLAND OF CIRCÈ
+
+
+"When we reached Circè's isle, we dragged our vessel up on to the
+beach, and lay down to sleep on the shore. At break of day I sent
+my comrades forth to bring the body of Elpenor from the palace. We
+took it out to a rocky place on the shore, and cut down trees to build
+a funeral pyre. There we burned the body and performed the funeral
+rites, and we built a tomb and placed an oar at the top of it.
+
+"All this was done quietly, but Circè saw us and came with her maids,
+bringing a generous supply of food and wine. Standing in our midst,
+she said: 'Brave men, who living have gone down to Hades, all men
+die once, but you are permitted to die twice. Take food, eat and drink
+all day long, and to-morrow at daylight depart for your native land.
+I will show you the way and teach you how to avoid all danger.'
+
+"We spent the whole day on the shore, eating and drinking, but when
+the sun sank down and the earth was covered with darkness my companions
+went near the ship to seek rest. But I sat down by Circè, who questioned
+me about my visit to Hades. After I had told her everything, she said:
+'Odysseus, so far all is well, but there are a great many new dangers
+ahead. Listen carefully to what I say. First, thou must pass the Sirens,
+who bewitch with their melodious voices all who listen to them. Woe
+to him who allows his ship to go near them! He will never reach his
+native land, or see his wife and children again. The Sirens sit in
+a green field and sing, while the bones of dead men lie in heaps near
+them. Do not listen to them, but pass them by unnoticed.
+
+"'Or, if thou wouldst enjoy the matchless singing and not pay the
+forfeit with thy life, let thy men bind thee hand and foot to the
+mast of thy ship, so that thou canst not by any effort stir a limb
+when the great longing seizes thee. And give thy men strict orders
+to make thy bonds tighter shouldst thou entreat them to loose thee.
+Before thou art bound, thou shalt knead soft wax in thy palms and
+fill the ears of thy companions with it, that no sound may enter.
+
+"'Thence thou wilt come to the narrows where Skylla and Charybdis
+dwell. On each side of the narrows is a steep cliff, one of which
+is so high that its sharp top reaches the sky. It is so slippery that
+no one is able to climb up or down its sides, nor could he if he had
+twenty hands and feet. Not even a bird can safely perch on it.
+
+"'No boat has ever come to the spot and left it without being wrecked,
+except Jason's, when he was in search of the Golden Fleece, and he
+escaped because a goddess was his guide, to pilot him through. A dark
+gray fog forever broods over the head of the cliff, and on its western
+side there yawns a fearful cave, where Skylla lives.
+
+"'She is a terrible monster that barks like a savage dog, day and
+night. She has twelve shapeless feet, and six heads set on long necks.
+Each of her mouths shows three rows of deadly teeth. Half of her body
+is hidden in the rock, but she thrusts out her heads and snatches
+her prey, fish, whales, dolphins, or men. No sailor escapes, or,
+indeed, any living creature that passes that way.
+
+"'The other cliff is not so high, but is still more dangerous. There,
+under the foliage of a wild fig-tree, Charybdis dwells, who sucks
+in the dark waters of the sea three times a day and belches them forth
+again three times with a terrible noise. Woe to thee if thou art near
+when she sucks the waters down, for not even Poseidon himself could
+save thee. It would be better far to steer close to Skylla, for then
+only six of thy men would be snatched from the benches, but if
+Charybdis seizes thy ship all must perish.
+
+"'These pests are immortal. Do not try to overcome them. They cannot
+die. It is better to fly from them with all haste. It would be rashness
+and not courage to attack them.
+
+"'Next in thy voyage thou wilt come to the island of Trinacria, where
+the fine flocks of Hēlios are feeding. Two shining nymphs, daughters
+of the Sun, tend them. There are seven herds of oxen and seven herds
+of sheep, fifty in each herd and flock. These creatures are immortal,
+and greatly beloved of Hēlios, who will send destruction to thy ship
+and crew if any harm come to them. Forbid thy men to touch the cattle,
+even though suffering for food. If thou art wise enough to escape
+these dangers, thou shalt reach thy home without further mischance.'
+
+"As the goddess finished, day broke. Circè sought her own dwelling,
+while we put to sea with a favorable wind, and soon the island faded
+from our sight."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIV
+ODYSSEUS MEETS THE SIRENS, SKYLLA, AND CHARYBDIS
+
+
+"When I saw that we were near the home of the Sirens, I said to my
+men: 'It is not wise that only one of us should know the oracles of
+Circè, and I will tell you all she said to me, that ye may escape
+from the perils before us; and I disclosed her sayings to them. Then
+I took a handful of wax and warmed it in the sun until it was soft,
+and carefully clogged up their ears.
+
+"They, in turn, tied me to the mast, hand and foot, so firmly that
+I could not stir a limb, having first received my command that they
+should not loose my bonds on any account. Then they bent to their
+oars, and rowed close to the Sirens, so that they could see me and
+I could hear their bewitching songs.
+
+"'Come to us, O renowned Odysseus,' they sang; 'pride of the Greeks,
+come and listen to our voices. No one ever yet passed us without
+stopping and admiring our sweet songs. Come, that we may sing to thee
+about Troy and thy friends, for we know everything that is going on
+in the whole world.'
+
+"Thus they sang, and their songs thrilled me. A great desire came
+over me to stop and listen to them, and with nods I entreated my
+comrades to set me free. But they sprang up and bound other cords
+about me, so that I struggled in vain. Then all the men plied their
+oars until the water was white with foam, and when we were out of
+sight of the island and could no longer hear the songs of the Sirens,
+my men set me free, and I took the wax from their ears.
+
+"Hardly had we escaped from the Sirens when we beheld a black fog
+and towering waves and heard a frightful noise. My men were so scared
+that the oars fell from their hands and the ship stood still. I
+hastened from one end of the boat to the other, speaking cheerful
+words to each rower. 'My dear friends,' I said, 'have no fear. This
+is not the first time we have encountered danger. We have been saved
+from the hands of the Cyclops through our own valor and clever devices,
+and we are not going to break down now. Listen, and I will tell you
+what is to be done. Keep your seats and ply your oars with all your
+might; but thou, O helmsman, steer thy ship clear of that fog and
+the whirling waves.' Thus I spoke, and they willingly obeyed my words.
+
+"Yet I said nothing to them about Skylla, lest they should lose heart
+and hide in the bottom of the ship. Thus we passed in between the
+two cliffs, the one of which harbored Skylla and the other Charybdis,
+who, with a terrible noise, swallowed the brine of the sea and belched
+it out again with a roar like the mingling of fire and water.
+
+"But I forgot the command of Circè to fly from these monsters without
+fighting. I put on my shining armor and took a spear in each hand,
+and went on deck, and stood in warlike attitude ready to attack Skylla
+if she should raise a hand to seize one of my men. I looked for a
+long time, but I could not see her.
+
+"We sailed on, the uproar increasing. My men grew white with fear.
+The salt waters whirled so that we could look into a deep watery pit
+and see the blue sand. The rocks were hidden by a thick mist. Suddenly
+Skylla thrust forth a mighty hand and snatched six of my brave men,
+as a fisherman pulls out fish with a hook. I saw their hands
+outstretched toward me as they were lifted up into the air, and I
+heard their cries for help. Woe is me! This sight will haunt me as
+long as I have life."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXV
+ODYSSEUS ON THE ISLAND OF HĒLIOS
+
+
+"When we had escaped from the terrible Skylla and Charybdis, we came
+to the island of Hēlios, the island of the Sun, and heard from afar
+the lowing of the cattle and the bleating of the sheep. Then I
+remembered the words of Tiresias and Circè, and I advised my
+companions not to land there at all, but to go right on, lest we suffer
+some new disaster.
+
+"My crew would not listen to me. They commanded me to land on the
+isle. I then made them take an oath not even to look at any of the
+cattle. We prepared our evening meal, and when it was over we talked
+of our dear companions whom Skylla had devoured, and we mourned over
+them until we fell asleep.
+
+"We remained a whole month on this island, on account of unfavorable
+winds. We found the roomy grot where the nymphs danced, and the seats
+where they sat--the nymphs who tended the flocks of Hēlios.
+
+"As long as we had a plenty of bread and wine my comrades were satisfied
+and spared the cattle. But when our store of food was exhausted they
+roamed all over the island to see what they could get to appease their
+hunger. They snared birds and caught fish with hooks, and lived on
+them or anything else that came to hand. But they grew poor and lean
+with hunger and nearly starved. I went off alone into the island,
+where I had found a quiet nook, and sent up prayers to the gods to
+show us the way out of our difficulties. There I fell asleep.
+
+"While I slumbered, Eurylochos called my men together, and said: 'All
+kinds of death are bad enough, my brave friends, but death by
+starvation is the worst. Let us kill the best of these cattle and
+offer sacrifices to the gods, and then eat and live. If we ever get
+to Ithaca we will make restitution, for we will build altars to the
+Sun and place costly gifts upon his shrine. But if it is his will
+to destroy us in his anger, then let us die amid the billows of the
+deep, for that is better than to die by famine.'
+
+"Thus spoke Eurylochos, and the others lent a willing ear. They seized
+the best of the cattle at once, and slaughtered them, and prepared
+a hearty meal. They offered up petitions to the gods, standing round
+their victims with young oak-leaves in their hands. Then they covered
+the thighs with caul, and laid slices of fat over these, and poured
+on water and roasted it until it was consumed. All the rest was cut
+into smaller portions and scorched on iron prongs.
+
+"At this moment I awoke and hurried down to the ship, and with horror
+found the dreadful meal prepared. One of the nymphs, immortal
+shepherdess, flew to the Sun to tell him that my men had slain his
+cattle. Hēlios was deeply angered, and spoke thus before the assembled
+gods: 'Father Zeus and all ye immortal gods, behold the comrades of
+Odysseus! They have slaughtered my heifers, which gladdened my heart
+as I went up to heaven and down to earth.
+
+"'If they do not pay me well for this great wrong, I shall go down
+among the dead and give them light, but I will give no light to the
+living.' 'Shine on, O Sun, in the bright sky,' said Zeus, 'for I will
+cut their ship to pieces with a thunder-bolt, as it tosses on a black
+sea.' I could only chide my comrades. I could not think of any
+sufficient redress, for the cattle were dead.
+
+"And here happened a wonder which amazed my comrades. The skins of
+the dead animals crawled over the ground, and the flesh lowed as they
+had done when alive. Nevertheless, my companions continued to kill
+and eat the best oxen in the herds for six days, when a favorable
+wind sprang up, and we went on board and set sail once more.
+
+"After we had lost sight of land, and nothing was before us but sky
+and sea, a sudden darkness shrouded the heavens, and there arose a
+violent storm. The vessel was hurled hither and thither by the
+towering billows; the hurricane tore the sails and dashed the mast
+against the pilot's head, crushing the bones, and he was cast headlong
+into the sea.
+
+"Then Zeus sent a thunder-bolt into the ship, and broke it nearly
+in two. The boat was filled with a sulphurous smoke, and my comrades
+were shaken off into the sea and drowned. They floated round me, but
+I moved about in the ship until the bottom and the sides had broken
+away from each other and the mast had snapped off at its base. I took
+the mast, which had a thong of bull's-hide round it, and tied it to
+the keel. I took my seat upon this frail craft, and the storm whirled
+me about.
+
+"After awhile the west wind ceased, and the south wind began to blow,
+which was still worse for me, since it took me back to dread Charybdis.
+All night long I was tossed on the waves, and at dawn I drew near
+to Charybdis. As the monster was swallowing the salt brine, I caught
+hold of the fig-tree and clung to it like a bat till she should throw
+up my poor raft. I waited long, but at last the timbers were thrown
+out of the whirlpool, and I dropped down upon them, and sat on them
+and rowed with my hands. I floated about on the waters for nine long
+days, and on the tenth I came to Calypso's island. She welcomed me,
+and detained me seven years, as I have already told thee, O Aretè,
+and why should I repeat a tale already narrated?"
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVI
+THE DEPARTURE OF ODYSSEUS FROM THE ISLAND OF SCHERIA
+
+
+All the guests had listened with deep attention to the recital of
+Odysseus; all were greatly interested, and when he ended they did
+not stir or speak a word. Alkinoös was the first to break the silence,
+and he said: "Renowned Odysseus, since thou hast come to our country,
+I hope that thy sufferings are at an end and that thou wilt reach
+thy native land safely and soon." Then the King turned to his guests
+and addressed them: "Phæacians, let us each present one more gift,
+a large tripod and a vase, to the hero who has come among us."
+
+The Phæacians received his words approvingly, and each went at once
+to his home to sleep. But when morning came they all sent their gifts
+to the ship, where they were packed carefully under the benches by
+the King himself, and the guests returned to the palace, where a
+banquet was spread for them.
+
+Alkinoös sacrificed an ox to Zeus, and they sat down at the table.
+The enjoyment ran high, and the old poet, Demodokos, sang sweet songs.
+They feasted all day, and when the sun was near its setting Odysseus
+said: "King Alkinoös, let us pour out the last libation and offer
+up the last prayer, for all things have come to pass that my soul
+desired. May the gods bless thy gifts. May I find my home, my wife
+and child, and friends. I pray the gods to grant thee all that is
+good, and may no evil ever befall thy land. Be pleased to send me
+hence, and fare thee well."
+
+Thus he spoke, right glad that the day was done and eager to set sail.
+The people approved his timely words, and seizing their goblets they
+poured out wine on to the ground, an offering to the gods, and they
+wished godspeed to their guest. Odysseus arose and placed a goblet
+in the hands of the Queen, addressing her thus: "Farewell, O Queen,
+I wish thee a long and happy life, a peaceful old age down to the
+grave, from which no one may escape; rejoice in the possession of
+thy home, thy people, thy children, and the King, thy husband."
+
+So spoke Odysseus, and left the hall. The King sent a herald to show
+him the way to the port where the ship was waiting for him. At the
+same time Aretè also sent down some maids, who carried a new cloak
+and tunic, a well-wrought coffer full of gifts, and an abundance of
+food for the journey.
+
+These things the crew took from their hands and stowed away in the
+hold of the vessel. They spread a nice bed for him on the deck, where
+he might sleep quietly. When every thing was ready, Odysseus embarked,
+and the sailors slipped the cables and took their seats at the oars.
+Odysseus fell into a deep, sweet slumber, but the ship flew forward
+faster than a bird could fly, making rapid headway toward the island
+of Ithaca.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVII
+ODYSSEUS ARRIVES AT ITHACA
+
+
+When the morning star arose the ship reached Ithaca. It entered a
+harbor called Phorkys, where there was a grotto sacred to the nymphs,
+and it was shaded at the entrance by an olive-tree. Stone vases stood
+around in the grotto, and there bees had stored up honey. The nymphs
+spun their fine thread from stone spindles there, and wove their
+sea-purple robes. Springs of cool water flowed through the grotto,
+and there was an entrance for mortals and one which was kept holy
+for the gods.
+
+When the ship touched the beach the sailors disembarked and carried
+the sleeping Odysseus on a rug on to the shore and laid him down.
+They brought his presents also from under the ship's benches and laid
+them under the olive-tree, a short distance from the road, for fear
+that some evil-minded person would take them before Odysseus woke
+up.
+
+Then the crew sailed homeward, but Poseidon saw them and was angry
+because his purpose to cause Odysseus endless suffering had been
+thwarted. He at once complained to Zeus that the Phæacians had
+restored Odysseus to his native land, with gifts finer and more
+valuable than anything he could have brought from Troy. Zeus listened
+to his complaint and gave him authority to destroy the Phæacian boat
+and its crew. Poseidon promptly repaired to the island of Scheria,
+and when the ship came in sight of the town he transformed it into
+a towering rock, that it might hide the island from mariners and the
+Phæacians would no longer be tempted to escort strangers to their
+homes.
+
+The ship had gone, and it was broad daylight when Odysseus awoke.
+He did not recognize his own country, he had been away from it for
+such a long time, and besides that, Athena had spread a dense fog
+over it. His first thought was that the Phæacians had deceived him
+and left him on an unknown shore. He began to accuse them of treachery,
+and prayed to Zeus to punish them. He looked around and found that
+his gifts had been carefully placed, so he knew that he had not been
+robbed. He counted his gifts and examined them.
+
+There were tripods and vases of gold and brass and beautiful
+hand-woven garments. He paced up and down the shore and wept and wailed
+aloud. Then Athena appeared to him disguised as a shepherd lad.
+
+When Odysseus saw her, he hastened to her and said: "Hail, fair youth!
+I am a stranger and find myself for the first time in this place.
+I entreat thee to tell me the name of this country, and what kind
+of people inhabit it." The goddess answered him: "Truly, stranger,
+thou must come from a far-off land that thou dost not know Ithaca,
+which is known from the rising to the setting of the sun.
+
+"It is indeed a stony island but it is not barren, nor is it a good
+place for raising horses. It is rich in grain and grapes. It has an
+abundance of dew and rain, and most delicious wine is made here.
+Nowhere can be found handsomer goats or finer cattle. Every kind of
+tree grows in its forests, and its springs are never dry. The fame
+of Ithaca has reached even as far as Troy itself which, I am told,
+lies far from Hellas."
+
+Odysseus was overjoyed to find that he was in his own country. But
+he did not venture to tell his name to the shepherd, nor whence he
+came. Instead of that he told a long story that he came from Crete,
+which he had been obliged to leave because he had killed the King's
+son, who had robbed him.
+
+Athena smiled and, assuming the form of a beautiful woman, took him
+by the hand and said: "Thou crafty man, why dost thou tell such lies?
+Dost thou not know Athena, daughter of Zeus, who has protected thee
+everywhere and saved thee from all danger? I have just come again
+to assist thee in hiding thy treasures and to tell thee what thou
+must encounter in thine own palace. But thou must not repeat anything
+which I tell thee, nor make thyself known to any man or woman. And
+thou must bear many indignities in silence until the right time comes,
+for there are many violent men in thy halls."
+
+Odysseus's heart was filled with joy. He knelt down and kissed the
+soil of his native land. "Tell me, is it true," he said, "that I am
+in my own beloved Ithaca? I pray thee, goddess, do not jest with me."
+
+"Thy native land! Such ever is thy thought," answered the goddess.
+"Any other man would have hastened with all speed to his wife and
+home. But thou must wait and come not at once into the presence of
+Penelope. She sits within thy palace, weeping night and day because
+thou dost not come. Hide thy gifts here in this grotto, and I will
+tell thee what to do next."
+
+With a glad heart Odysseus saluted the nymphs of the cave and spring:
+"Hail to you, nymphs of my native land, daughters of Zeus! I thought
+I should never see you again. I shall bring you rich gifts in days
+to come, if it please Athena to keep me from harm." After he had carried
+the presents into the grotto and carefully hidden them, he sat down
+with the goddess among the gnarled roots of the olive-tree, and they
+laid plots to destroy Penelope's impudent suitors. Athena told him
+about the trouble they had caused her; how they had established
+themselves in her own home, trying to win her for a wife. For three
+years the noble Penelope had kept these arrogant men in suspense,
+deluded with empty hopes, while she waited for her husband's return.
+When Odysseus heard these words he was greatly disturbed, and said:
+"Woe is me! I might have been slain in my own home but for these timely
+words. Now I am forearmed. Stand by me, I pray, in my great need,
+and give me strength to meet my enemies. If thou art my helper, I
+can resist, single-handed, three hundred foes."
+
+"Take courage," said the goddess. "But to carry out our plans I must
+change thee to a miserable old man with a wrinkled face and clad in
+ragged garments, so that no one can recognize thee.
+
+"Then must thou go to thy faithful swineherd, Eumaios, who loves thy
+wife and child and thy whole house.
+
+"Thou wilt find him as he feeds the swine on acorns in a field near
+the mountain, Korax, and the spring, Arethusa. He will tell thee all
+the doings in thy house. Meantime I will take my way to Sparta.
+Telemachos, thy son, is there. He went to visit Menelaos and try to
+find out if there were any news of thee. I will call him to return
+to Ithaca."
+
+The goddess touched Odysseus with her magic wand. At once he shrank
+and withered into a wrinkled, shabby, old beggar. Then she gave him
+a staff and a tattered sack and sent him to his loyal swineherd while
+she took her way to Sparta.
+
+[Illustration: ALPHEUS AND ARETHUSA]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVIII
+ODYSSEUS SEEKS THE SWINEHERD
+
+
+Odysseus left the haven by a narrow stony path and took his way to
+the dwelling of his faithful swineherd, who thought more of the
+welfare of his master than did all the rest of the servants whom
+Odysseus had. He found him seated in the yard which he himself had
+made of stone for the swine of the absent King, and had enclosed with
+a thick hedge of thorns. He had driven strong posts of oak around
+it, also. Inside the yard he had made twelve sties, and in each sty
+there were fifty sows with their little ones. The males were kept
+outside and were fewer in number, for Eumaios was compelled to send
+a very fat one to the suitors every day, and therefore there were
+only eighteen score.
+
+Near them were four large savage dogs as guards. They were more like
+wolves than dogs. Eumaios was busy making a pair of sandals from an
+ox-hide, for his own use. The other swineherds had gone on errands,
+three of them to drive pigs to pasture, while the fourth had taken
+a hog to the suitors in the city.
+
+When the dogs saw Odysseus they barked and rushed upon him, and they
+would have torn him to pieces, but Eumaios drove them off with stones
+and said: "Thou poor old man, the dogs came very near tearing thee
+limb from limb, and that would have been a great shame and sorrow
+to me.
+
+"The gods have already sent me trouble enough. Here I sit weeping
+and mourning for my beloved master, and take care of his swine in
+order that strangers may eat them. Who knows where he may be wandering
+as a beggar among people who speak another tongue? But come, old man,
+let us go into my lodge and eat, and then thou mayest tell me who
+thou art and what misfortunes thou hast suffered."
+
+Odysseus followed the swineherd into the cabin. Eumaios threw an
+armful of rushes on the floor and covered it with a rug of goat-skin
+and bade his guest be seated.
+
+Odysseus was gratified at this kind reception, and said to the
+swineherd: "May Zeus and all the other immortal gods give thee, my
+host, all the good of earth for thy hospitality."
+
+The good swineherd answered him: "My guest, I should consider it a
+great sin not to receive a stranger hospitably, even if he looked
+more miserable than thou. Strangers and beggars are children of Zeus.
+The hospitality I can extend to thee is slight but sincere, for
+servants have little to offer, especially when, like me, they have
+new masters. Odysseus loved me much. Would that the gods might send
+him back to us. He would have paid me for my toil. He would have given
+me a home, a little land, and a wife. But he is dead. May the whole
+race of Helen be destroyed, for it was she who brought noble men to
+destruction."
+
+The swineherd drew his belt around him and hastened to the pen where
+the pigs were shut up. He seized two little pigs and slew them and
+roasted them on a spit over the fire. He sprinkled salt over the savory
+meat and brought it to Odysseus. And he brought delicate wine in a
+wooden cup, as well.
+
+Then he said: "Eat, stranger, for this is the best I have to give.
+The suitors, who fear neither god nor man, eat the fat hogs. They
+gorge themselves with the costliest food in the house, both wine and
+meat, and only these little lean porkers are left for us. Yet there
+is still an abundance, for my master was very rich. He had twelve
+herds of horned cattle and as many swine on the mainland, and twelve
+flocks of sheep and goats. Here, on the island, graze eleven flocks
+of goats, tended by as many trusty herdsmen, each of whom has to send
+a fattened goat for the table of the suitors every day. As for myself,
+I take care of these swine, and each day I choose the best to send
+to the city."
+
+Odysseus ate the flesh and drank the wine while Eumaios was telling
+him these things, and could hardly keep from giving vent to his anger.
+But he kept silence and meditated vengeance on the suitors. When the
+meal was done he said: "Tell me, I pray thee, all about thy rich and
+kind master. Thou didst say that he went out with Agamemnon to fight
+the Trojans. Perhaps I know him and can give thee some information
+concerning him."
+
+The noble swineherd answered: "Be silent, aged man, for we have ceased
+to believe the tales told us by wanderers. Every beggar who comes
+this way calls on my mistress and tells her falsehoods about seeing
+Odysseus, and tries to make her think that he will come home in a
+short time. Then she treats him kindly and loads him with gifts.
+
+"How shall we know but thou dost make up just such a story in order
+to receive a tunic and a mantle? It is a fact that my master does
+not return. Who knows on what spot of the earth his bones are
+mouldering, or what dogs and birds have devoured him? I shall never
+cease to grieve for him. He loved me as he would have loved a son.
+I shall never find such a kind master again. Even my father and mother
+were not so good to me. Although he will never be with us any more,
+I keep on doing his will."
+
+[Illustration: THE SWINEHERD TELLING HIS STORY TO ODYSSEUS]
+
+Odysseus replied: "Thou dost see that I am half naked for want of
+clothing, but I will never take a reward, even though I am in rags,
+until Odysseus is really here. I hate the wretch who tells lies to
+enrich himself as I hate death. I call Zeus to witness, and this
+hospitable board and the hearth of Odysseus, that what I tell thee
+will come true. Odysseus will be here at the end of this month, and
+he will be avenged on those men who have robbed him and insulted his
+wife and son."
+
+"And yet I will not give thee any reward for thy news, old man," said
+Eumaios, "for Odysseus is dead. He will never come again. Drink in
+peace and let us talk of other things. Do not take this great oath,
+as much as we wish--Laertes, Penelope, Telemachos, and I--that
+Odysseus might come. But now, as if we had not troubles enough, a
+new one has come upon us. I know not what evil demon put it into the
+mind of Telemachos to go to Sparta to inquire about his father. And
+the ungodly suitors have sent out a ship to watch for him, and kill
+him on his return. We shall lose him, too, if Zeus does not hold a
+protecting hand over him.
+
+"But tell me, dear old man, from what country dost thou come? Who
+are thy parents? Tell me of thy toils and sufferings."
+
+The time had not yet come when Odysseus thought it best to reveal
+himself. He wanted to stay with the swineherd until his son should
+return, and he had had the opportunity of making the best plan for
+ridding his house of the suitors. So he told the swineherd a long
+string of stories. He said he was a son of the King of Crete; that
+he went to Troy, where he met Odysseus and fought by his side.
+Returning, he wandered about, and, after many adventures, met
+Odysseus again getting ready to return to Ithaca. As for himself,
+he had been robbed even to his clothing and cast on this island.
+
+He told the tale so well that the swineherd believed him, and even
+killed a fat hog in his honor. And he made him welcome to his lodge
+and prepared a good bed for him near the fire, and covered him with
+goat-skins. The night was cold and damp, and a cutting wind was blowing
+outside. The other servants lay down near Odysseus to sleep, but
+Eumaios took a sharp sword and thick mantle and went out near the
+pens to watch the swine all night. Odysseus saw with gratitude how
+faithfully this servant attended to his duty.
+
+
+
+
+PART III
+THE TRIUMPH OF ODYSSEUS
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIX
+ATHENA ADVISES TELEMACHOS
+
+
+At the time when Odysseus was wrecked, after his comrades had eaten
+of the cattle of Hēlios, and he was cast up on to the island of Calypso,
+Athena prayed to Zeus, her mighty sire, that he might be restored
+to Ithaca, his native land. She prayed that Hermes, the messenger
+of the gods, might be sent to Calypso with the express command that
+she should send Odysseus home. Zeus smiled and granted the request.
+
+Then Athena tied golden sandals under her feet and taking a long,
+heavy spear, she rushed like a whirlwind down from the heights of
+Olympos and stood at the doorway of Odysseus' house, among the men
+of Ithaca. She found the haughty suitors assembled there eating and
+drinking.
+
+Telemachos saw the goddess before anyone else. She was disguised to
+resemble Mentor, a wise chief who had led the Taphians in the Trojan
+war. Telemachos rose at once, like a gracious host, and took the right
+hand of the stranger and gave him a hearty welcome. Athena saw with
+anger how the ungodly wooers ate and drank and rioted gluttonously,
+while the servants of Telemachos were obliged to administer to their
+wants. Some of them were kept mixing the wines and water in large
+craters; others had to clear and clean the tables, and others again
+prepared and carved the meats and carried them round to the suitors.
+
+Telemachos led the stranger away from this noisy hall, that he might
+not be annoyed by their boisterous behavior. He bade him sit down
+on a throne, and placed a foot-stool under his feet. Then he drew
+his own chair from among the suitors and sat near the stranger, hoping
+to hear news of his absent father. A maid brought a silver pitcher
+and basin and let the stranger wash his hands. A table was placed
+before him, laden with the choicest viands, while a herald filled
+a goblet with wine for him. When they had enjoyed their meal,
+Telemachos asked the stranger his name and country.
+
+"I am Mentor, son of the Taphian King," said Athena. "I came here
+in my ship with a crew of friends, on a journey to the Isle of Cyprus,
+in search of copper, and I brought iron to give in exchange. I am
+an old friend of Odysseus. I have left my ship in the bay, back of
+the forest. Laertes will tell thee who I am. It is said that he does
+not come to the palace any more, but lives alone in the country,
+mourning over the loss of his son day and night. It seems that the
+gods have long delayed Odysseus. Who knows where he is? I am sure
+that he is not dead. And now tell me, what feast is going on here,
+and who are these men? Are they invited guests? Is it a banquet I
+see, or is there to be a wedding? It is not a pleasant sight in any
+case, for the men are coarse in their actions and ungodly in their
+speech. Every friend of Odysseus must feel sad to see them in this
+place."
+
+"As long as my father was here," answered Telemachos, "our house was
+respectable and rich. But the gods have forsaken us, and we are
+destined to destruction. No news of my father's death has ever reached
+us; nevertheless, all the young men of the first families of Ithaca
+and the surrounding isles flock to our house and seek my mother for
+a wife and squander my father's riches. My mother does not favor the
+idea of another marriage, and has not promised herself to any of the
+suitors. She fears them, and so she does not reject their suits, yet
+she will not end the trouble by marrying one of them. They will not
+go away, but make themselves at home here and eat up my inheritance.
+They only want a favorable opportunity to kill me."
+
+Athena grew angry at this, and said: "I would that Odysseus might
+come this very moment to chastise these atrocious fellows. Woe to
+them if he should appear at the door with his helmet and shield and
+two tough spears, just as he looked when I first beheld him in my
+own home. Then these suitors would find a bitter marriage-feast and
+a speedy end. Vengeance, however, rests with the gods.
+
+"Now, let me consider the best way to get these suitors out of the
+house. As an old friend of thy father, let me advise thee. To-morrow
+call thy people together in council and tell the suitors to depart.
+If thy mother has any inclination to wed again, send her to her
+father's house. He is rich and powerful, and can give her a splendid
+wedding, such as is suitable for the daughter of a king, and bestow
+an ample dower.
+
+"Then launch thy finest ship. Man it with twenty good oarsmen and
+put out to sea in search of thy father. Sail to Pylos first and consult
+with Nestor, and go to Sparta next and see Menelaos, who has returned
+from Troy recently. Stay with him awhile if he can assure thee that
+thy father lives. But if he tells thee that thy father is surely dead,
+return as quickly as possible and build a mound to him, and cause
+the altar to be piled high with sacrifices and the funeral games to
+take place. Then let thy mother marry again.
+
+"Thou art no longer a child, and it is not seemly to allow such
+indignities. Be brave and act without fear, that men may honor thee.
+When thou hast performed these deeds, let thy care be to drive out
+the suitors. But now I must return to my ship, for my companions will
+be uneasy over my long absence."
+
+"Thou hast spoken to me as a father speaks to a son," answered
+Telemachos. "I shall bear thy words in mind. And now I pray thee stay
+awhile to rest and bathe. I cannot let thee go to thy ship without
+some handsome gift, such as one always bestows upon an honored guest."
+
+"Telemachos, do not detain me longer," replied Athena. "I must depart
+at once. Keep thy gift until I return, and then I will take it to
+my home." She vanished as she spoke, and all that Telemachos saw was
+a fleet-winged bird flying upward high in the air. Telemachos was
+astonished, and knew that he had been talking face to face with some
+deity. He thought over all that the goddess had told him, and resolved
+to do exactly as he had been instructed.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXX
+TELEMACHOS ASTONISHES THE WOOERS
+
+
+The feast continued. The wooers ate and drank but were silent, for
+an illustrious bard was singing to them of the Trojan war. Telemachos
+walked forth in the midst of them, his heart inspired with courage.
+Penelope had heard the song as she sat in her chamber over the hall,
+and she came down the lofty stairway attended by two maids. She
+implored the bard, with tears to change the song, since it was the
+one most sacred to her and made her sad.
+
+Then said Telemachos: "My mother, let thy heart be strong to bear
+this song which all men love. The bard must sing the song with which
+he is inspired. Retire now, I pray thee, to thy room, and take thy
+maids with thee. There teach them to spin and weave--a task meet for
+a princess. But leave to me the ordering of the feast and the care
+of the suitors. Such a duty belongs to a man, and the authority is
+mine." Penelope was amazed at his words. She withdrew to her own rooms
+with her attendants and wept and mourned for her absent lord until
+she fell asleep.
+
+When the minstrel had finished his song, the suitors began to be noisy
+and riotous again. Telemachos could no longer restrain himself. "Ye
+insolent suitors of my mother," he said to them, "cease your uproar.
+Your lawlessness knows no bounds. To-morrow I will call a general
+assembly of all the Ithacans and warn you to depart. If ye remain
+in my house wasting my goods and eating food that is not your own
+I will call down vengeance from the gods, and ye shall die in this
+very palace."
+
+The suitors were astonished at his courage and his words. He had never
+before spoken out with authority. Antinoös and Eurymachos, the most
+insolent of them, began to ridicule him and excite the others to make
+fun of him. And they asked Telemachos what guest he had been
+entertaining so secretly and what news he had brought from his father.
+The suitors danced and sang, eating and drinking, until evening,
+before they went home.
+
+Telemachos then sought his own couch. His old nurse, Eurycleia, led
+the way with two torches. She had been a faithful servant since Laertes,
+in his early manhood, had bought her for the price of a hundred oxen.
+
+Telemachos sat down on his bed, and removing his tunic handed it to
+the nurse, who folded it and smoothed it and hung it up. He lay down
+and covered himself with soft fleeces, while Eurycleia went out and
+carefully locked the door. But sleep did not come to him. All night
+he thought of what the coming day would bring.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXI
+PENELOPE'S WEB
+
+
+The next morning, at dawn of day, Telemachos rose from his bed and
+put on his garments. He hung his sword over his shoulder and fastened
+his sandals on his feet and strode bravely forth. He summoned his
+heralds at once and bade them call a council of the Ithacans. The
+people came at the appointed time, and Telemachos, sceptre in hand,
+took his place before the assembly and called it to order.
+
+"I have not summoned you, my friends," he said, "in order that ye
+may see some entertaining show, but out of dire necessity. I bring
+no news of war and I have nothing to say that concerns the public
+good. You all know the grief which has befallen me on account of my
+father, your king and leader, who loved you as a parent loves his
+children. But Odysseus is gone and there is no hope of his return.
+This misfortune is not enough, for every day the young men of the
+leading families of Ithaca and the surrounding isles meet in my house
+and vex my mother with unseemly and importunate offers of marriage.
+
+"There they are now installed, eating our food, drinking our wine,
+and wasting our money, for Odysseus is not here to drive them out.
+I have no way of expelling them from my home. My friends, consider
+these wrongs and help me to drive these robbers from the house of
+your king. It would be a shame to the people of Ithaca if it were
+noised around that they left the son of their chief in the hands of
+plunderers without giving him help."
+
+Thus spoke Telemachos, the tears running down his cheeks, and he threw
+the sceptre on the ground. The people were greatly moved, and felt
+pity for the youth who had to suffer such wrongs, but they were silent.
+Only Antinoös, the most insolent of the suitors, took up the word
+and said: "Shameless Telemachos, how dost thou dare to chide us for
+this state of things! Thy mother is the one to blame. She has been
+leading us on for three whole years. She is skilful and crafty. She
+promised, three years ago, to choose one of us for a husband as soon
+as she should finish the winding-sheets for old Laertes in case of
+his death.
+
+"Then she began to weave upon her loom a dainty web of vast length
+and width. And she said to each one of us: 'Do not urge me to marry,
+I pray, until I finish these shrouds for the hero Laertes, when his
+hour of death shall come. I have spun an abundance of fine thread,
+and it must not be wasted. Besides that, the dames of Greece would
+speak ill of me if I should leave my husband's father without a shroud,
+for he has had great wealth all his life.' In this way Penelope gave
+us hope, and we were too generous to persist in forcing her to choose
+at once.
+
+"She went on in this way, weaving the great web by day, and every
+night she unravelled by torchlight all that she had woven by sunlight.
+She has deceived us long enough. We have discovered her fraud; for
+a woman who has seen her unravelling the web has told us all about
+it. She must finish the work and make her choice among her suitors.
+If thou dost wish us to leave thy house, thou shalt send thy mother
+to her parents and let her father command her to marry one of us,
+according to her choice. When this is done no one will disturb thee
+any longer.
+
+"If, however, Penelope prefers to treat the noble sons of Greece with
+such malice and craft, we will go right on consuming thy goods. She
+will thus make a great name for herself, but she will impoverish thee."
+
+"I shall never send my mother away from her husband's house," rejoined
+Telemachos. "Living or dead, my father is in distant lands, and if
+I should dismiss his wife of my own will, I should invite the hatred
+of the gods on my guilty head. She would call upon the Furies to haunt
+me; all men would curse me; and her father would demand ample
+satisfaction of me. I will never speak the word to send her forth.
+Now, get you gone and cease squandering my riches or I will call down
+the wrath of the gods on you."
+
+Having said this, Telemachos sat down, and Zeus sent two eagles flying
+over the heads of the wooers, close to each other. They looked down
+upon the crowd of people and tore each other's heads and vanished.
+The Ithacans saw the deadly omen, and a venerable prophet among them
+stood up and said: "Noble youths, I advise you seriously to depart
+from this royal house, for this is a sign that Odysseus is coming
+home. Woe to you if he finds you in his palace. You will all meet
+a direful end."
+
+Eurymachos answered him: "Old man, keep thy advice and thy forebodings
+for thine own children. We do not need them. Advise Telemachos to
+change his mind and send his mother home to her father, instead of
+prating foolishly to us. As long as he keeps her here we shall continue
+to consume his wealth, until he has nothing left. And we will punish
+thee severely if thou dost incite this young man to violence."
+
+Telemachos, thinking it best to be discreet, replied: "Now hear me,
+Eurymachos, and all ye suitors. Give me a good ship and twenty men,
+that I may go from land to land in search of my father. If I find
+that he lives and may return, I will wait one year longer for him
+to reach home. But if I hear that he is not alive, I will come back
+and build a mound to his memory and give him a funeral worthy of such
+a king. Then shall my mother make her choice and wed."
+
+Mentor, the stanch friend and adviser of Odysseus, sat among the
+Ithacans in the assembly. When he saw how Telemachos was put to shame,
+he grew angry. He rose to his feet, and addressed the people: "No
+king ever again should be wise and good. He should be hard and unjust,
+since no one of you has enough love for Odysseus to stand by his son.
+I am less ashamed of the impudent suitors, than I am of the weaklings
+who see what they are doing and who dare not interfere."
+
+"Foolish old Mentor," said one of the suitors, "what art thou saying!
+If Odysseus, himself, should come hither, he would not be able to
+drive us out. If anyone thinks himself strong enough to do it, let
+him try it. Ye Ithacans disperse to your homes, and leave Mentor to
+provide the boy with a ship." So saying he dispersed the crowd, and
+the wooers all went into the palace to continue their revelry.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXII
+THE JOURNEY OF TELEMACHOS
+
+
+Telemachos left the assembly and went down to the sea-shore alone,
+and washing his hands in the surf called on the goddess who had
+appeared to him the day before to come to his assistance. At once
+Athena stood by his side in the guise and with the voice of Mentor.
+She urged him to hasten his journey. Telemachos took new courage,
+and returned at once to his house where he found his old nurse,
+Eurycleia, alone. He revealed to her his intention, and asked her
+to assist him in getting everything ready for the journey. He bade
+her draw twelve jars of the best wine, and twelve skins of the finest
+meal to put aboard the ship.
+
+When the old nurse heard this she wept and beat her breast. "Dear
+child," she said, "who has put such a thought into thy mind? Why
+shouldst thou, an only son and well beloved, wander off to a distant
+land? Be warned by what thy father had to suffer because he left his
+own country. The suitors will plot to kill thee and divide thy wealth.
+Stay here, at home; there is no need that thou shouldst venture over
+the fearful sea."
+
+Telemachos answered her: "Take courage, my good nurse; this journey
+is advised of a god. Do not let my mother know of my departure for
+eleven or twelve days, lest she weep and mourn."
+
+The nurse promised most solemnly that she would keep his secret and
+execute his orders. She drew the wine into the jars and filled the
+strong skins with meal. Meantime, Athena, blue-eyed goddess, taking
+the form of Telemachos, went through the city and urged the men to
+repair to the ships at sundown, for she had chosen the best boats
+in Ithaca for the youth, and found for him a crew that was glad to
+serve him.
+
+Then the blue-eyed maid went to the palace and poured sleep upon the
+eyelids of the drunken suitors. They gladly sought their beds in their
+own homes. Taking the form of Mentor, she next appeared to Telemachos
+and bade him follow her to the beach. When they reached the galley,
+he found his comrades waiting. They hurried up to the palace for the
+wine and meal, which they soon brought to the ship and stored in the
+hold. Then the crew slipped the cables which held the ship to the
+shore. Athena took her seat at the stern and Telemachos sat near her.
+The sails were spread and the sailors began to ply their oars. Athena
+raised a favorable breeze and the vessel glided forward cutting her
+way through the roaring waters.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXIII
+TELEMACHOS IN PYLOS
+
+
+At sunrise the ship arrived at Pylos. The people of that town were
+all assembled on the shore, where they were sacrificing coal-black
+oxen to Poseidon. Some were burning fat upon the altar, and others
+were distributing food among those who were offering up the sacrifices,
+while all were eating.
+
+The Ithacans touched land. Telemachos and Athena disembarked,
+leaving the crew to guard the ship, and went up to the crowd. On the
+way Athena cheered Telemachos and advised him what to say to the people.
+When they had come near enough to the inhabitants to be seen by them,
+the people rose and came to meet the strangers. First of all, the
+son of Nestor, Peisistratos, approached and took each of them by the
+hand and led them to the feast. He bade them be seated near his father
+and brought them the choicest meat.
+
+After the strangers had eaten, Peisistratos filled a golden goblet
+with wine, and handed it to Mentor, as the elder. Mentor was pleased
+with the young man's good breeding and he took the goblet and poured
+out a part of it on the ground as a sacrifice to Poseidon, with a
+prayer for a safe return. Then he handed the goblet to Telemachos,
+and he did likewise.
+
+When the feast was over, Nestor, the King of Pylos, said to his guests:
+"The time has come, dear strangers, when it is fitting to ask your
+names, and from what land you come. Do you roam the seas as pirates,
+or do you come on an errand?"
+
+"We are Greeks," said Telemachos. "We come from Ithaca to seek tidings
+of my father, the unfortunate Odysseus, who went to war against Troy
+with thee and the other Greek chiefs. We have never heard anything
+of him during all these long years and do not know whether he is living
+or dead. I pray thee tell me anything thou may'st know about him,
+and conceal nothing."
+
+"My son," Nestor replied, "thou dost call to mind the great sufferings
+borne by the men of Greece ere we succeeded in conquering Priam's
+town. It would take years to tell thee of the brave deeds of the Greeks,
+how they fought and where they fell. We passed nine years in worrying
+the enemy, and there was no man who gave better counsel or performed
+nobler deeds than did Odysseus. Art thou then his son? I look on thee
+in wonder. Yes, thou art like him. How strange to hear so young a
+man speak as he did!
+
+"After the destruction of Troy, the surviving Greeks embarked, and
+we set out for home. But when we reached Tenedos, thy father returned
+to Troy to join Agamemnon and the others, who had stayed behind, to
+appease the wrath of Athena, for a Greek had committed sacrilege in
+her temple.
+
+"Our voyage was prosperous, and we all reached home except Menelaos,
+who wandered about in Crete and Egypt for a long time. It is said
+that the noble son of Achilles returned home safely, and that
+Agamemnon was slain in his own house, and his son took vengeance on
+his murderers. There is a rumor, too, that many suitors hang about
+thy mother, and, in spite of thy remonstrances, consume thy riches.
+Be brave, my son, and yield not. Odysseus may come again. Go at once
+to Menelaos, for he may have news of thy father. I will give thee
+swift horses and a chariot, and my sons will drive."
+
+All day Telemachos discoursed with Nestor, and when the sun went down,
+they poured wine on the earth and burned an offering to the gods.
+Telemachos and Mentor arose to retire to their ship, but Nestor begged
+them to be his guests and go to the royal palace. Mentor, as the elder
+of the two, excused himself, in order to join the crew, and suddenly
+disappeared. Nestor recognized that Telemachos was attended by the
+goddess, and offered a prayer to her. The assembly dispersed, and
+Nestor, with his guest and his sons, retired to his palace.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXIV
+TELEMACHOS IN SPARTA
+
+
+Before the sun was fairly up, they all arose and seated themselves
+on the smooth stone benches that loomed up in the gloaming, white
+and shining, before the gates of the palace. Nestor bade one of his
+sons to prepare an offering to Athena, of the best heifer in the fields.
+He sent another son to call a skilled workman to plate the heifer's
+horns with gold, and two others yet to bring the crew from the ship.
+He told the remaining two sons to bid the maids prepare a sumptuous
+feast in honor of their guest.
+
+In a moment there was a busy scene. The heifer was brought up from
+the fields, and her horns were adorned with pure gold in hopes that
+Athena would see it and be pleased. The sailors came from the ship,
+except two who were left as guards. The heifer was slain and parts
+were burned as an offering to the goddess, and cakes and wine also
+were thrown into the flames to complete the sacrifice. They roasted
+the flesh on long iron forks with five prongs, and feasted upon it.
+
+Then Nestor said to his sons: "Bring now the chariot and horses and
+let our guest depart in search of news concerning his renowned
+father." The horses were soon harnessed to the car, which was stored
+with wine and bread and dainties fit for a prince. Telemachos climbed
+into the seat. Peisistratos took his place beside him and grasped
+the reins. The horses dashed off in high spirit, and Pylos was soon
+left in the distance. All day the horses sped along. At night they
+rested by the way and early the next morning went on again as swiftly
+as before. As the sun went down they found themselves in Sparta, the
+land of plenty, and at the gates of Menelaos, the king.
+
+Here they found many guests assembled at the wedding banquet of
+Hermione, the daughter of Menelaos. That day she had been given as
+a bride to Neoptolemos, the son of Achilles. A minstrel was playing
+a harp and singing, while two dancers performed graceful feats to
+give life to the feast.
+
+One of the attendants of Menelaos saw the strangers drive up, and
+stepped out to see who was coming. Then he hastened back to Menelaos
+and told him that two strangers of princely bearing were at the palace
+gate, and asked if he should unharness their horses or send them on
+their way. Menelaos was vexed that any of his servants should be so
+lax in hospitality, and told him he had acted like a foolish child,
+and reminded him of the gifts that had been showered on them when
+they wandered so long in foreign lands. And he bade him hasten to
+unharness the steeds, and give them oats and barley, and bid the
+strangers welcome to the feast.
+
+Telemachos and Peisistratos were amazed at the beauty of the palace.
+They bathed in the marble baths, rubbed themselves with oil and put
+on the splendid tunics that were brought them. After that they entered
+the great hall, where each was seated on a throne near the king. A
+handmaid brought a golden pitcher and a silver bowl for their hands,
+and a table was placed before them laden with choice food. When they
+had eaten enough, golden beakers of wine were handed them, and then
+the monarch gave his hand to each of them, saying: "Ye have come in
+good time, my friends. As soon as ye have finished your feast, I will
+ask your names and whence ye come, for ye look like sons of kings."
+
+As they sat there Telemachos, bending his head toward Peisistratos,
+said, in a low tone, so that he thought no one else would hear: "Surely,
+O son of Nestor, the Olympian home of Zeus himself could not be more
+glorious than this palace. See the gold and ivory, and shining brass.
+These things are beyond price in richness." Menelaos caught the words,
+although he spoke so low, and said: "My sons, there is no palace that
+can compare with the home of the gods. The riches which you look at
+in astonishment I collected while wandering in Egypt and in Crete.
+I find no pleasure in them, however, for I found my brother, King
+Agamemnon slain when I reached home. Would that the men who fought
+before Troy had their share of this wealth! I often weep and mourn
+for them in my palace, and am unable to eat or sleep on account of
+the misery I have brought upon my friends.
+
+"For none of them do I mourn so much as I do for Odysseus, who suffered
+the most of all on my behalf. I would gladly give all my wealth, if
+I only knew him to be safe. But we do not know whether he is dead
+or living. How much his old father must have grieved for him. How
+many tears his wife, Penelope, must have shed, and his high-minded
+son, Telemachos, what sorrow he has suffered."
+
+New despair filled the heart of Telemachos, and tears fell from his
+eyes. He held his purple mantle to hide his grief and wept in silence.
+When Menelaos saw this, he at once suspected that the young man was
+no other than the sorrowing son of Odysseus, and he felt perplexed
+for want of suitable words. He could not decide whether to question
+him about his father, or to wait and let the youth speak out of his
+own will.
+
+Just then Helen entered the hall from her high-roofed chamber, looking
+like a goddess in her dazzling beauty. She sat down at her husband's
+feet, while servants ran to bring the mat which she was weaving and
+the distaff filled with fine-spun purple thread. Her fingers flew
+over the dainty work while she questioned the king: "Didst thou ask
+the strangers their names? It is not possible that there can be any
+man so like to Odysseus except his son, as is this youth! I see him
+with astonishment. His father left him at home a little babe, when
+the Greeks went forth to war for my sake. Is it not true that this
+is Telemachos?"
+
+Menelaos replied: "My wife, I think thou hast spoken truly. The young
+man has the hands, the feet, and the features of Odysseus, and he
+cannot hide his grief at the mention of that hero's name."
+Peisistratos took up the word and said: "He is, indeed, the son of
+Odysseus, O king! My father, Nestor, sent me with him to inquire what
+you might know of the long-lost chieftain, and to beg you to give
+him advice, for he has to suffer great wrongs in his house and there
+is no one to assist him."
+
+Menelaos was heartily glad to hear that his guest was really
+Telemachos. But the remembrance of his old friend overcame him and
+he wept bitter tears. "I thought when I was in Troy," he said, "that
+I should one day welcome Odysseus to my home. I would have given him
+land and cities and brought to Sparta all his people and his wealth.
+Then we would always have lived close together and nothing could have
+parted us. But he has never returned." The tears fell from his eyes
+and Helen wept as well. Peisistratos then said to Menelaos: "Son of
+Atreus, my father says that thou art good and wise. Let us not, I
+entreat, continue this sad discourse, since this is a day that should
+not be given to lamentations. I lost a brother, also, at Troy. But
+we will honor these heroes at a proper time, with tears and by cutting
+off our locks. Let us not spoil the feast with mourning."
+
+They spent the rest of the day in making the festival as cheerful
+as if there were no grief to be hidden, and when night came the Argive
+Helen ordered the servants to prepare beds for them in the portico
+and cover them with tapestries, while she poured for them a soothing
+wine and dismissed them to their slumbers. The heralds led them to
+their couches, where they found a welcome rest.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXV
+MENELAOS RELATES HIS ADVENTURES
+
+
+The next morning Menelaos rose from his couch very early, put on his
+garments, hung his sword over his shoulder, laced his sandals, and
+went into his hall looking like a god. He sat down near Telemachos,
+and asked him to tell him frankly why he had come to Sparta.
+
+Telemachos then told him of the evil deeds of the suitors, and besought
+him to give him every possible clew to his father's whereabouts.
+Menelaos was indignant over the young man's wrongs.
+
+"Shame on the cowards who wish to rule over thy father's house," he
+said. "Let Odysseus return and he will tear them to pieces as a lion
+tears a young deer. Grant, O father Zeus, and Athena, and Apollo,
+that Odysseus may yet give those ungodly suitors a bitter wedding
+feast. But I will tell thee of my travels and what was told me by
+the Ancient Spirit of the sea.
+
+"It happened that the gods detained me many days in Egypt to sacrifice
+and do penance, for I had forgotten to make proper offerings to them.
+The island of Pharos lies just off the coast of Egypt. There I remained
+until the daughter of the Ancient Sea King, seeing my distress, came
+to my rescue.
+
+"My men and I had wandered over the island in search of food until
+we were nearly starved, when she discovered us, and told us that our
+efforts would be useless unless we consulted with her father. 'If
+thou canst ensnare him and hold him in thy grasp,' she said, 'he will
+tell thee how to reach thy home. He is a seer, and can tell thee all
+that has taken place there during thy absence. At noon-tide he comes
+out from the ocean caves covered with brine, and lies down among the
+sea-calves, rank with the smell of salt. He counts them five at a
+time, and then he stretches himself out among them and goes to sleep.
+He is very shrewd, and when thou hast caught him he will struggle
+and take all sorts of forms to escape thee. He will turn into a reptile,
+and into fire and then will change to water. But hold him fast, and
+when he looks as he did when first perceived by thee, ask him how
+to find thy home.'
+
+"The next morning, I sought the aged sea-god as I had been bidden.
+I took three old comrades whom I knew to be trusty, and we went down
+into the depths of the sea. The goddess brought us four fresh hides
+that had just been taken from sea-calves newly slaughtered, and we
+dressed ourselves in them to deceive her father. She scooped out
+places for us to lie in on the sands and we waited for him to come.
+The smell was sickening and beyond endurance, so the goddess put
+ambrosia under our noses. When the sun was highest in the heavens,
+the sea-calves came in groups and ranged themselves around in rows
+on the sand. The old seer came out and counted all, and did not notice
+our fraud. Then he lay down to sleep. At once, we rushed upon him
+and caught him. He began to take all kinds of shapes. First, he was
+a lion; then a serpent, a panther, a boar, a fountain of water, and
+a tree. We held on until he was tired of trying to escape.
+
+"At last he took his proper form, and began to question me. 'Son of
+Atreus,' he said, 'who hath taught thee how to make me a prisoner?
+What is it thou wouldst know?' 'Tell me what god is angry with me,
+O Proteus,' I replied. 'Why am I detained on this island? Why can
+I not reach my home?' 'Thou didst not make acceptable sacrifices to
+Zeus,' said Proteus. 'And thou wilt never see thy home again until
+thou hast offered up a hundred oxen to the immortal gods.'
+
+"'I will perform that rite speedily, oh prophet,' I replied. 'But
+tell me about my comrades in the Trojan war. Did they reach home in
+safety?'
+
+"Then Proteus told me all; how Ajax died amid his ships; how Agamemnon
+was slain in his own hall; and of Laertes' son he said that he had
+seen him sitting in a grotto on Calypso's Isle. There upon the rocks
+or at the ocean-side he weeps and mourns day after day, and gazes
+out upon the deep. His comrades are lost, and he has no ship with
+which to return to Ithaca. And after he had spoken he plunged into
+the sea while I returned to my ships, offered up the hundred oxen
+to Zeus and sailed for home. And now, Telemachos, I pray thee remain
+awhile with me, and I will dismiss thee with a chariot and swift horses,
+and a cup of priceless worth with which to pour libations to the gods."
+
+Telemachos took new courage when he heard that his father still lived,
+and begged that he might go back at once to Pylos to join his crew.
+In a moment all were busy in the palace of Menelaos preparing gifts
+and a feast that the youths might depart on the morrow.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXVI
+THE CONSPIRACY OF THE SUITORS
+
+
+One day while Telemachos was in Sparta, the guest of Menelaos, the
+suitors were more riotous than usual. They diverted themselves in
+the palace of Odysseus by throwing the discus and javelin. Only
+Antinoös and the handsome Eurymachos kept apart from them. Then Noëmon,
+who had given Telemachos his ship a few days before, approached them
+and said: "Antinoös, I would gladly know when Telemachos will return
+from Pylos. I lent him my ship, and I need it for I intend to go to
+Elis, where I have business."
+
+The suitors were completely taken by surprise, for they had not heard
+that Telemachos had gone to Pylos. They thought that he was out at
+the farm with his swineherd. Antinoös asked: "When did Telemachos
+sail, and what crew did he take? Did he use force in getting thy ship
+or didst thou lend it willingly?"
+
+"He was welcome to the ship," replied Noëmon. "Who would not have
+done such a service to a man who has had so much to endure? The young
+men who went with him belong to the best families of Ithaca." Noëmon
+could not get any news of Telemachos, so he went home; but the suitors
+conspired to kill Telemachos. They decided that Antinoös should man
+a ship with a crew of twenty men, and lie in ambush in the waters
+near Ithaca, in order that they might catch Telemachos, on his return.
+
+This wicked plot of the suitors was betrayed to the queen, by her
+faithful herald, Medon. Penelope was overcome with grief, and wept
+bitterly, and her loyal attendants mourned with her. "What new grief
+is this which befalls me now?" she said. "Is it not enough that death
+has robbed me of my husband? Am I also to lose my only child, without
+even having seen him before his departure? Alas! why did no one tell
+me he was going, that I might have prevented his journey? Haste ye
+to Laertes and tell him what has happened, that he may make some plan
+to upset this plot to destroy his heir, the son of Odysseus."
+
+Then Eurycleia, the nurse, tried to console her with these soothing
+words: "My daughter, I will not hide the truth from thee any longer.
+I gave Telemachos a generous supply of food and wine, all that he
+could use on his journey. And I promised him solemnly that I would
+not tell thee of his departure, since he had a great dread that thou
+wouldst weep and mourn, and spoil thy lovely face and injure thy health.
+Now dry thy tears and bathe, and put on fresh robes. Then go to thine
+altar in the upper chamber with thy maids. There pray to Athena and
+burn incense to her. Do not alarm good old Laertes needlessly."
+
+Penelope followed the old nurse's advice. She went to the altar, at
+the highest part of the house, and there she prayed to Athena: "Hear
+me, daughter of Zeus! If ever my beloved husband has sacrificed to
+thee the fat limbs of oxen or sheep, and has built thee altars, save
+my son, Telemachos, and destroy the suitors, who fain would destroy
+him." The goddess heard her prayer, and sent sweet slumber and a
+pleasant dream to assuage her grief. In her sleep she saw her sister,
+who said to her: "Be of good cheer, Penelope; no harm will come to
+thy son, for a god goes with him." To her, the wise Penelope, yet
+dreaming, answered: "My sister, why is it thou hast never come to
+me before? Thy home is far away. I weep because I have lost my noble
+husband, and now his enemies conspire to slay my only son." The dream
+replied: "Take heart. Do not fear. Athena sent me to tell thee that
+she will protect thy son."
+
+"Oh, tell me," cried the queen, in her dreams, "tell me if my husband
+lives, since thou art sent by a goddess." But the shadow vanished
+through the closed door, and mingled with the air. Penelope awoke
+with a glad heart, cheered by the prophetic dream.
+
+In the meantime the suitors spoke among themselves, for they were
+too foolish to understand the spirit of the queen. "Surely," they
+said, "Penelope is making ready for her wedding. She does not suspect
+that we have planned to kill her son." "Do not deceive yourselves,
+my friends," said Antinoös. "Be silent and act." Then he chose twenty
+men, and they went down to a well-fitted ship, and took their places
+at the oars. They waited until it was dark, when they quietly rowed
+out into a narrow strait, through which, they thought, Telemachos
+was sure to sail on his return, and there they waited.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXVII
+TELEMACHOS RETURNS TO ITHACA
+
+
+Having encouraged Penelope, the goddess Athena sped to Sparta, where
+she found Telemachos, with Nestor's son, asleep upon the porch. She
+stood beside his bed, and warned him that he ought to return home,
+since Penelope's father had given her counsel to wed the richest of
+the suitors, and had promised a generous dower. "Do not delay," the
+goddess said to him; "no one can tell what a woman will do to help
+the man she is to marry.
+
+"And also beware of the suitors, whom thou hast offended. They lie
+in wait in the narrow passage between Samos and Ithaca. They hope
+to catch thee on thy way home and slay thee. Do not go that way. Sail
+only when it is dark. A god will watch over thee. When thou dost come
+to the first harbor in Ithaca, disembark, and let thy crew go on in
+the ship and take it back to the town. But thou shalt make thy way
+to the hut of thy loyal swineherd, and he will take tidings of thy
+safe return to thy mother."
+
+Athena said this and vanished. Telemachos turned to Peisistratos and
+said: "Let us arise and set forth on our journey with all haste, oh
+son of Nestor." But Peisistratos begged him to wait until it was fairly
+light. Menelaos had slept lightly, he was so agitated with the great
+event of seeing his beloved comrade's son, and he rose as soon as
+it was light. Telemachos heard him approaching, and hastily threw
+on his tunic and cloak and went to meet him.
+
+Telemachos urged a hasty departure and Menelaos did not think it
+proper to try to detain him. He said: "A host is hateful who is too
+affectionate. It is as wrong to keep a guest who is in a hurry to
+go as it is to thrust a stranger out when he wants to stay. Let me
+bring thee costly gifts, and when thou hast had thy morning meal I
+will hasten thee on thy way." The car was heaped with gifts, a golden
+goblet, a silver beaker, a robe that glistened with hand-wrought
+embroidery, the work of Helen, a goblet of silver with golden lips.
+Peisistratos gazed with wonder at their beauty as he placed them in
+the car.
+
+They washed their hands in a silver bowl and ate and drank from the
+bounty which had been placed before them. Then they mounted the car
+which had been brought to the palace gates. Nestor's son took the
+reins, Menelaos poured wine on the ground, an offering to the gods
+for their safety and prosperity, and off they sped over the plain.
+Two birds flew on before them, an eagle that had clutched a goose
+and bore it off in its talons, a sign that Odysseus would come and
+put an end to the suitors, and this omen cheered Telemachos.
+
+All day the horses bounded on shaking their splendid harness. The
+son of Nestor plied the lash. At night they rested in a friendly lodge
+and the second day they reached Pylos. They drove directly to the
+ship, lest Nestor, in his great love for his guest, should detain
+him. With an offering and a prayer to Athena he set sail. A prospering
+breeze swept over the sea and bore them rapidly along. At night
+Telemachos landed at the nearest port and sent the crew on to take
+the ship to the town.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXVIII
+TELEMACHOS AND THE SWINEHERD
+
+
+When daylight appeared Odysseus and Eumaios rose from their beds and
+sent the serving men out into the fields with their swine, but they
+themselves remained at home and prepared breakfast. In a little while
+they heard footsteps outside. The dogs pricked up their ears and
+wagged their tails without barking.
+
+Odysseus, perceiving this, said to the swineherd: "There must be some
+friend of thine coming, since the dogs do not bark." The words had
+hardly passed his lips when Telemachos entered the hut. Eumaios
+started to his feet and hastened to welcome his young master. He took
+him in his arms as a father would a son who had been away a long time,
+and kissed his face and hands.
+
+Tears dropped from his eyes and he said: "My dear Telemachos, I did
+not dare to hope ever to behold thee again. Come in that I may rejoice
+with all my heart at seeing thee once more enter my cabin after thy
+return from a strange country. Seldom dost thou come to see thy
+servants, for thou dost live in town, where thou must watch the suitor
+train consume thy wealth day by day."
+
+To this Telemachos made answer: "This is quite true, my father; but
+I come here to learn of thee how matters are at the palace. Is my
+mother there, or has some wooer won her for a bride?"
+
+"Thy mother is still at home," replied the sturdy swineherd. "She
+has a loyal heart, but she wastes her life in weeping." Saying this
+he took the lance from the young prince, who had come farther into
+the cabin. Odysseus arose to give him his seat, but Telemachos said
+to him: "Keep thy seat, stranger, I will sit elsewhere."
+
+Odysseus sat down again. The swineherd took an armful of twigs and
+covered it with fleeces, and Telemachos seated himself upon it. Next
+he brought bread and meat and set them before his young master, who,
+when he had eaten, asked his faithful servant who the stranger was
+and whence he came.
+
+"The stranger says that he came from Crete," answered Eumaios. "Lately
+he has run away from a ship where he was robbed, and has come here.
+I leave him to thee, however; do with him as thou dost like." "Thy
+words do not please me, Eumaios," said Telemachos. "How can I receive
+a stranger in my house, since I cannot protect him there if any of
+the godless wooers insult him. It would be better for him to stay
+here; and lest he be a burden to you I will send out food and clothes
+for him, and I will help him to go wherever he wishes."
+
+To him the sagacious Odysseus replied: "My friend, I hear with grief
+the story of thy wrongs. Art thou willing to let this go on? If I
+were as young as thou art I would lose my life before I would suffer
+such things--thy guests insulted, thy servants beaten, thy riches
+thrown away, thy food consumed by gluttons."
+
+"Thy words are sharp, dear stranger, and I shall answer them with
+the truth," said Telemachos. "Thou dost not yet understand that there
+is a great crowd of suitors; not simply five or ten. What can I do
+single-handed against such a multitude? But you, Eumaios, hasten to
+the city, secretly, and tell my mother that I have returned and am
+staying here. Then come back at once and let no one know where I am,
+for the lovers are plotting a bloody death for me." The swineherd
+hastily bound his sandals on to his feet, took his staff, and hurried
+off.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXIX
+TELEMACHOS RECOGNIZES ODYSSEUS
+
+
+It was not long after Eumaios had left the cabin when Athena, in the
+guise of a beautiful woman, appeared to Odysseus and beckoned him
+to come outside. Telemachos was opposite to her, but he did not see
+her, for the gods are not visible to all. Only Odysseus and the dogs
+were conscious of her presence. The dogs did not bark but ran into
+a corner of the cabin, crouching and whining. Odysseus left the room
+and stood before the goddess, who spoke to him in these words: "Son
+of Laertes, of noble birth and great wisdom, make thyself known to
+thy son. Tell him all the truth. Advise with him how to put an end
+to that insolent crowd of suitors. I shall never be far from thee
+myself and will help thee. I long to see them attacked."
+
+When she had finished speaking she touched Odysseus with her golden
+wand. That touch changed him instantly into a handsome, well-made
+man in the full vigor of robust manhood. His rags became seemly
+garments. His cheeks flushed with renewed health and the heavy beard
+on his chin grew dark again. After the goddess had done this she
+vanished and Odysseus went back into the lodge. His son glanced at
+him in amazement and then turned his eyes away from him lest he should
+irreverently look upon a god.
+
+"Stranger," he said, "I think thou art an immortal whose home is in
+the heavens, for thou hast been transformed in looks and garb. Let
+me bring a sacrifice and offer it to thee, together with beautiful
+gifts, and perhaps thou wilt be gracious to us and keep us from harm."
+
+Odysseus replied: "Nay, I am not a god, nor like the gods. I am thy
+father, he for whom thou hast mourned and endured so many sufferings."
+Saying this he kissed his son and wept.
+
+"I pray thee do not deceive me," said Telemachos. "Thou surely art
+a deity and not my father. No mortal could change from a ragged old
+beggar to a young and stately man in a moment."
+
+Odysseus answered him: "Telemachos, it is not like a son to gaze upon
+thy father with astonishment. No other Odysseus will ever come into
+this cabin. I am thy father. I have wandered twenty years in foreign
+lands, and now have come to my own home. Thou hast seen a miracle
+which Athena wrought, for she makes me look like a beggar or a king
+as she pleases. The gods have all power to put men in high places
+or to humble them."
+
+Odysseus sat down and his dear son approached him and threw his arms
+around him in a loving embrace, and together they wept tears of joy.
+At last Telemachos inquired: "Dear father, in what ship hast thou
+come, and what sailors brought thee hither? Thou couldst not have
+come on foot."
+
+"The Phæacians brought me across the sea and left me sleeping on the
+shore in Ithaca," replied Odysseus. "And they gave me rich presents
+of gold, and silver, and brass, and embroidered garments hand-woven
+from their own looms.
+
+"These have I hidden, and Athena has sent me to advise with thee how
+best to destroy the arrogant crew of suitors that so long has robbed
+my house and vexed my wife. Tell me now how many there are and what
+kind of men, so that I can judge whether we two alone may attack them,
+or whether we need the help of others."
+
+"My father," answered Telemachos, "thy sweet fame has resounded
+through our halls, my whole life long. How often have I heard of thy
+courage and the strength of thy powerful arm. But how is it possible
+for us two to fight against such a multitude? Fifty-two of the wooers
+come from one town with six servants. Twenty-four come from Samos,
+and twenty more from Zakynthos, and twelve from Ithaca. If we attack
+them all I fear that we shall come to grief. It is better for us to
+look around and find an ally."
+
+Again Odysseus made reply: "Dear son, take courage. Zeus and Athena,
+most powerful of the gods, are on our side. Early to-morrow thou must
+go to the city and mingle with the suitors. The swineherd shall lead
+me disguised as an old beggar to my palace. Keep down thy wrath if
+the wooers speak insultingly to me. Do not resent it except to
+administer a gentle reproof, though they strike me with their spears
+and abuse me with bad language. The day of their death is at hand.
+When Athena gives me the sign, I will nod to thee and thou shalt remove
+my weapons from the great hall to an upper room. Tell the suspicious
+suitors that the arms gather too much dust where they now hang on
+the walls, and besides that, a god has warned thee that in their
+drunken brawls, the wooers may harm each other. Let no one know of
+my arrival, not even Laertes, Eumaios, or my wife, Penelope."
+
+All day the illustrious father and his son conversed and laid their
+plans. At noon they killed a yearling pig, and roasted it and made
+a hearty lunch. Once more Athena touched Odysseus with her wand and
+changed him into a poor old beggar, that Eumaios should not recognize
+him. At evening the swineherd returned. On entering his cabin he told
+his young master that the suitors had learned of his safe return to
+Ithaca. Then he prepared a supper for them, and they ate and drank
+to their hearts' content, when they retired to rest.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XL
+TELEMACHOS RETURNS TO THE PALACE
+
+
+Early the next morning Telemachos rose, tied his shining sandals under
+his feet, took his spear and stood ready to go to the city. He called
+the swineherd to him, and said: "Eumaios, I am going back to the town
+to see my mother. I know that she will not cease to be anxious about
+me until she sees me in my own home. Take this stranger there, too,
+where he may beg, and thus supply his wants. I cannot receive every
+poor man into my own house; my trials are too great. It makes no
+difference to me whether he likes it or not. I am forced to tell the
+truth about it."
+
+"My friend," said Odysseus, "I do not care to stay any longer. I think
+myself it is better for me to go to the city, where a beggar may have
+a fair chance. I am too old to be of service here. Go thy way, my
+son, and let thy servant lead me hence, as thou hast commanded. But
+let me first warm me at the fire, for I am cold and the way is long."
+
+Then Telemachos went out of the lodge and sped toward the city. His
+old nurse, Eurycleia, was the first to see him, and she ran out to
+welcome him, and the other servants came around rejoicing. Next came
+Penelope, as beautiful as Artemis, and threw her arms about her son,
+and kissed him on his brow and eyes. "Hast thou indeed returned,
+Telemachos, my son? I never hoped to see thee again. Tell me about
+thy father. Hast thou any news of him? What has happened? What hast
+thou seen?" So did the queen greet her son.
+
+"Dear mother, do not waken my grief again," Telemachos replied. "I
+have barely escaped a cruel death. But go to thy bath and put fresh
+garments on, and then pray to the gods and promise them great
+sacrifices if Zeus will avenge our wrongs." Penelope willingly did
+her son's bidding, but Telemachos betook himself to the market place
+to show himself to the people.
+
+When Telemachos came into the public square the suitors thronged
+around him with smooth speeches, but in their hearts they kept on
+plotting his death. He wanted them to see that he was in Ithaca, but
+he did not care to be in their company, so he took his place among
+some friends of his father. One of the crew came up to ask where he
+might deposit the splendid gifts of Menelaos, and Telemachos told
+him to hide them until the suitors had been defeated or had won the
+victory.
+
+Then Telemachos came back to the palace in company with a stranger
+who had joined his crew at Pylos, and they sat down near the queen,
+who was spinning. The servants brought them wine and food, and after
+they had eaten, Penelope begged that her son would recite to her the
+story of his journey. In the meantime Odysseus and Eumaios had started
+for the city. When they reached the spring where the citizens of the
+city went for water, they encountered Melanthios, a goatherd, driving
+goats into town. Two servants followed, helping him. As soon as he
+saw Eumaios and his guest, he said: "Look! There is one knave leading
+another. Verily, the gods bring like and like together. Thou miserable
+swineherd, whither dost thou take that worthless beggar, this
+vagabond who rubs his shoulders on every door-post, asking for crusts,
+eating gluttonously, and telling tales of woe?
+
+"Just hand him over to me to guard my stables and clean my yard, and
+I will give him whey to drink, which will fatten his limbs. But work
+does not suit such a fellow. He would rather ramble idly about and
+beg for food to fill his empty stomach. Let him once come to the palace
+of Odysseus and the guests that woo the queen will fling footstools
+at him." With that Melanthios kicked him in the thigh. Odysseus
+hesitated a moment and considered whether it were better to slay the
+goatherd with a blow from his staff, or whether he should submit to
+the indignity in silence. The latter seemed the better course.
+
+But Eumaios grew angry and said: "Melanthios, wait till Odysseus
+returns. He will give thee thy deserts, thou villain! All day long
+dost thou loaf in the city, leaving thy master's flocks to take care
+of themselves." Melanthios answered him: "Just hear what this cur
+has to say! I shall take him off and sell him for a slave some day.
+Would that Telemachos might die this moment under the hands of the
+suitors, and go down to Hades to join his father!" With these words
+he hurried off to the house of his master where he sat down among
+the crowd of wooers.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XLI
+ODYSSEUS IS RECOGNIZED BY HIS DOG
+
+
+After awhile Odysseus and Eumaios came to the house. As they drew
+near they waited a little to listen to the music, for a minstrel had
+begun a song, and while singing he played the lyre. "Surely, Eumaios,"
+said Odysseus, "anyone would know that this is the palace of a king.
+See how stately the structure is, and how spacious the court beyond
+the massive gates! And there are walls and towers and countless rooms.
+No one but Odysseus could have built such a fortress. I hear the sound
+of the lute and perceive the tempting odor of roasting meat, and there
+are crowds of guests coming and going. There must be a banquet within."
+
+Eumaios replied: "True, my friend, this is the house of Odysseus.
+Now, let us consider what we are to do. Shall I take the lead and
+go in first, or wilt thou go first and let me follow?" Odysseus, the
+sagacious, made answer: "Go in before me, and I will follow by and
+by."
+
+They were standing near the stable doors while talking. The filth
+from the stalls of the mules and oxen had been piled there by slovenly
+servants, who should have removed it day by day to fertilize the fields.
+There, on the unwholesome heap, a poor, neglected dog was lying,
+devoured by noxious insects and vermin. It was Argus, whom Odysseus
+himself had raised before he went to Troy. In times gone by, the young
+men of Ithaca had made him most useful in the chase. He had scented
+the stag, the hare, and the wild goat for them many a time. But now
+that he was old no one cared for him, and he was left to die.
+
+As soon as he saw Odysseus drawing near he pricked up his ears and
+wagged his tail. But he had not strength enough to get up and come
+to his master, although he moved as if he would gladly have done so.
+Odysseus saw this and burst into tears, but he turned his face away
+in hopes that Eumaios would not notice it.
+
+But the good swineherd saw it and so Odysseus questioned him: "Eumaios,
+what dog is this that lies upon this filth? He is well built, and
+surely is of a fine stock. Is he fleet in the chase or a mere house-dog
+kept for show?"
+
+"This dog, stranger," answered Eumaios, "belongs to my dear master.
+If thou hadst only seen him before Odysseus went to Troy thou wouldst
+have been astonished at his swiftness. He performed wonders in the
+chase. No wild animal was able to escape him. But his master has died
+far from home, and the careless servants will not even throw him a
+bone."
+
+The swineherd passed on into the hall where the suitors sat, but
+Odysseus stood looking at the faithful beast, the only creature that
+had recognized him. The joy of seeing his old master was too great,
+and Argus sank down and died.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XLII
+ODYSSEUS COMES, A BEGGAR, TO HIS OWN HOUSE
+
+
+Telemachos was the first to notice the swineherd entering the hall,
+and he made a sign for him to come and sit by him. Presently Odysseus,
+too, entered in the guise of a forlorn old beggar, and sat down near
+the door. Telemachos handed Eumaios a whole loaf of bread and as much
+meat as he could hold in his two hands, and bade him take it to the
+beggar. And he told him to tell the poor old man to ask a pittance
+from every suitor present.
+
+Odysseus took the food, and after thanking Telemachos, prayed to the
+gods to give him everything good. Then he placed his food in a wallet
+on the ground, and began to eat, while a minstrel entertained the
+assembly with sweet music. When the bard ceased his singing, the
+suitors began a noisy conversation, and having a signal from Athena,
+Odysseus arose and went from one wooer to another asking alms. Each
+one gave him something, and asked him who he was and whence he came.
+
+Melanthios, the goatherd, and the favorite of Eurymachos, wishing
+to make mischief, told them that Eumaios had brought the old man along
+but did not, himself, know who he was. Antinoös hearing this, said:
+"Eumaios, foolish swineherd, why didst thou bring that vile beggar
+here? Are there not beggars enough to eat up the wealth of thy master
+without him?"
+
+Eumaios answered him most courteously: "Antinoös, though thou art
+high born thou art not well bred. Thou hast always spoken
+contemptuously to all the servants of Odysseus, but chiefly to me.
+Beggars come as they like. No one expects to invite them. Only people
+of rank are invited to a feast. But I heed not thy abuse so long as
+I can serve the wise Penelope and her powerful son."
+
+Then Telemachos, seeing that a quarrel was brewing, interposed: "Hold
+thy peace, Eumaios, make no words with Antinoös. He takes delight
+in ugly words. Nothing pleases him more than to stir up ill-feeling.
+Surely Antinoös, thou art a father to me when thou dost bid me turn
+a stranger into the street and insult him. Pray let the old beggar
+approach thee and receive a pittance, for thou shouldst not feast
+on the food belonging to others and never bestow any gifts. All the
+suitors except thyself have given him a dole."
+
+Antinoös made response: "Telemachos, thou boaster, if each suitor
+would bestow upon him such a gift as I will make, he would not come
+here again very soon." With that he seized a footstool and held it
+up where all could see it. The beggar approached him with a pitiful
+story of wanderings and hardships. Antinoös spurned him saying: "What
+demon hath brought this chattering beggar to spoil our pleasure? Get
+thee gone, or thou wilt soon be much the worse for coming. Thou art
+a bold and impudent old beggar."
+
+Odysseus withdrew, saying as he went: "How strange it is that so fine
+a form can conceal so foul a mind. Thou wouldst not give even salt
+to a suppliant, nor a crust of bread from thine own table, without
+begrudging it. But thou dost feed gluttonously at the table of an
+absent chief." Antinoös grew more angry, and rejoined: "Thou insolent
+beggar, thou shalt not leave this hall unpunished." With that he
+raised the footstool and struck Odysseus on the shoulder. The chief
+stood like a rock, not in the least disturbed. But he made menacing
+motions with his head and retired to the door, where he put down his
+wallet and lifted up his voice to call down vengeance from the gods.
+
+Antinoös spoke again with insulting words, and one of the guests
+rebuked him. He was so angry, however, that he did not heed it.
+Telemachos saw the blow, and could hardly restrain his anger. Word
+was carried to Penelope that a penniless stranger had been insulted
+and struck in her halls, and she said to her maids: "I would that
+Apollo with his bow might strike Antinoös down."
+
+Then she called the swineherd to her apartment and said: "Bring the
+beggar hither. I should like to speak with him. It may be that he
+has seen Odysseus, for he seems to have wandered far."
+
+The swineherd took the queen's message to the stranger, but he begged
+that he might not comply with the request until the suitors had left
+the house. "I knew Odysseus well," he said, "but I dread these violent
+men. Therefore, ask Penelope to let me wait until sunset when I can
+sit by the fire and warm myself, and tell her all that she shall
+inquire."
+
+The queen thought the beggar's answer was a prudent one, and was
+satisfied. At sundown the swineherd left the palace to return to his
+hut. The suitors kept up the revel until late in the evening, and
+then went home leaving Odysseus in his own palace.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XLIII
+CONVERSATION OF ODYSSEUS AND PENELOPE
+
+
+After the revellers had left the palace, Odysseus said to his son:
+"Now is the time to hide all these weapons where the suitors cannot
+find them, when their hour of need shall come. If they ask for them
+tell them that the arms were losing their polish in these smoky rooms,
+and also that the gods had warned thee to remove them since some
+dispute might arise in which the wooers heated with wine and anger
+would attack each other."
+
+Telemachos at once obeyed. He called his old nurse to see that the
+servants were in their own apartments and the doors of the palace
+made fast while he removed the arms to an upper room. Then he retired
+to rest, leaving Odysseus sitting by the hearth in the large
+dining-hall awaiting the arrival of Penelope. She was not long in
+coming. Her maids placed a chair, inlaid with silver and ivory, for
+her near the fire, and threw a large woolly rug before it for her
+feet.
+
+The queen, stately as a goddess, took her seat there while her maids
+carried away the dishes and food left by the suitors. They heaped
+great logs on the fire. Then Melantho, an impudent maid, said to
+Odysseus: "Art thou here, thou beggar! Begone, or I will take a
+firebrand and drive thee out!" Odysseus rejoined: "Such is the fate
+of beggars. They must wander far and take abuse. It is true that I
+am ragged, but I am not unclean. Once I was rich and had my own palace.
+I often gave to beggars and I had many servants. But it pleased the
+gods to make me poor. Thou pert woman, surely the queen, Penelope,
+never taught thee, and thy bad conduct will not escape the eye of
+Telemachos."
+
+Penelope saw and heard all this and the high-breeding of the beggar
+did not escape her keen notice. She turned to the saucy maid and said:
+"Shame on thee, thou bold creature. Thou dost know full well that
+this stranger has remained here at my own request, that I might inquire
+if he knows aught of my husband."
+
+Then the queen asked her matron to spread a rug for the poor old man.
+Odysseus sat down and Penelope began to question him. "Who art thou,
+stranger?" she asked. "Where is thy home? Whence hast thou come?"
+Odysseus answered her: "My gracious queen, I am the son of a king
+and I come from Crete. I am a man of sorrows and have wandered far.
+But do not ask me of these things, for I do not wish to lament over
+unhappy days.
+
+"Strong ties of friendship bind me to Odysseus. Twenty years ago,
+when he went to Troy, I received him as a guest in my house, because
+contrary winds and a stormy sea had thrown him upon my island. I led
+him to my palace and gave him the best of food and wine. Twelve days
+he remained with me, both himself and his companions. On the
+thirteenth a favorable wind arose and they went on to Troy."
+
+Odysseus kept on inventing one tale after another, such as might seem
+probable, and the tears rolled down Penelope's cheeks. Odysseus could
+have wept, too, when he saw how deep her loyalty and affection were
+rooted. The lady had no doubt of the genuine character of her guest,
+but she cautiously strove to prove the truth of his words, so she
+questioned him yet farther, asking him to describe Odysseus and his
+comrades--how he looked and what dress he wore.
+
+Odysseus responded truthfully: "He wore a cloak of purple wool, with
+two clasps of gold, hand-wrought. The pattern showed a hound
+struggling with a spotted fawn, intent to kill it. Besides this he
+had on a delicate tunic of shining cloth, spun, doubtless, by his
+queen, for the women gazed at it in wonder.
+
+"He was accompanied by a herald named Eurybates, a hunchback with
+a dark complexion, but Odysseus seemed to value him above all the
+rest, for he was a clever and a faithful man."
+
+When Odysseus had finished speaking, Penelope exclaimed, with a burst
+of passionate grief: "Stranger, I was moved to pity when I first saw
+thee in my halls, but thou shalt be held as an honored guest from
+this time forward. Thou hast spoken truly of the garments, for I shaped
+the folds in them myself and put on the clasps. Alas! I shall never
+see him again. It was a cruel fate that took him from me."
+
+Odysseus was deeply moved, and tried to speak consoling words. "Weep
+not," he said, "for grief will wear away thy beauty and thy health.
+Odysseus lives and will return. I met him lately on his homeward way,
+laden with wealth which he had gathered in the country of the
+Thesprotians.
+
+"He will come alone, for his comrades were destroyed off the island
+of Trinacria, for they had slain the oxen of the Sun. He would have
+arrived here before me, only that he stopped to consult an oracle
+whether to come secretly or not. He is safe and will not long remain
+away from thee. Here I take the great oath that Odysseus will come
+within a month."
+
+The wise queen answered him: "I would that thy words might prove true,
+O stranger, but the thought is deep in my heart that Odysseus is no
+more. My maidens, lead this guest to the bath and spread a couch for
+him where he can rest quietly, and to-morrow he shall share the morning
+meal with Telemachos."
+
+Then said Odysseus to her: "Fair queen, I care not for fine covers
+and soft beds. Wilt thou permit me to lie down on the floor near the
+fire, as I am used to do? I care not for the bath, either, unless
+there is some old servant who knows how to give a foot-bath to aged
+feet."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XLIV
+EURYCLEIA RECOGNIZES ODYSSEUS
+
+
+Penelope admired the prudence of the poor old beggar, and called
+Eurycleia, bidding her to bathe the stranger's feet as carefully as
+if they were the feet of her master. The nurse filled a bright brass
+basin with warm water and knelt down to execute the command of her
+royal mistress, saying: "My poor Odysseus! My heart is sore for him.
+Who knows but he may be wandering like thee, weary and footsore!
+Perhaps he is an object of ridicule among serving-women who will not
+suffer him to come near the bath.
+
+"Stranger, I will wash thy feet for the sake of my absent master,
+and to please that gracious queen who has commanded me to do so; but
+most of all because thou art in need of it through suffering. Surely
+I never saw anyone who bore so close a resemblance to my lord as thou."
+
+Odysseus replied: "It has often been said that I look like Odysseus
+by those who knew us both, O aged dame." Then he turned his feet away
+from the light, for fear that Eurycleia would recognize a scar and
+discover who he was. But it was in vain, for as soon as she passed
+her hand over it she knew it. It was a scar that came where a wild
+boar had once torn the flesh when Odysseus was hunting on Parnassos.
+
+The old servant was so overcome with joy that she laughed and cried
+at the same time. She let his foot fall against the basin, which was
+upset with a loud clang, while the water was spilled over the floor.
+She laid her hand on Odysseus' beard, and said in a voice trembling
+with emotion: "Dear son, thou art Odysseus. I knew thee the moment
+that I touched the scar."
+
+Then Eurycleia turned to tell Penelope that her lord had come, for
+the queen had not seen the upsetting of the basin. But Odysseus laid
+his finger on the old servant's lips, and with his left hand drew
+her closer and said: "Be silent. Let no one know that I have come,
+for I must slay the suitors by stratagem. If they know that I am here
+they will prevent me and destroy us all."
+
+The loyal handmaid arose to bring another basin of water. She bathed
+his feet and anointed them. And he moved to the fire and took his
+seat, while he pulled his ragged garments over the scar to hide it,
+lest it might betray him.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XLV
+PENELOPE'S DREAM
+
+
+When Odysseus was again seated by the hearth, Penelope began to speak
+to him further: "Stranger, one more question I must ask thee, and
+then I will leave thee, for the hour of sleep is near. All day long
+I keep at my tasks to try to forget my grief, for the gods have visited
+me with sore misfortunes. I teach my maids to spin and weave and care
+for the palace. But when night comes strange dreams flit through my
+mind, and new sorrows spring up in my heart.
+
+"There are from day to day assembled in my home all the young men
+of the best families of Ithaca and the neighboring isles, who insist
+that I shall choose one of them for a husband. But as I am not willing
+to comply, they remain in my house and destroy my property. I am not
+able to drive them out, and do not know how to help myself. Listen
+to a dream I had the other night. Perhaps thou canst explain it to
+me.
+
+"I dreamt that there was a flock of twenty geese in my court-yard,
+and they picked corn out of the water and ate greedily. Suddenly an
+eagle swooped down upon them from above and broke their necks and
+tore them to pieces. Then he flew off, leaving them scattered about
+the yard. I bitterly bewailed the loss of my geese, and so did my
+maids. After awhile the eagle came back and, perching on the roof,
+said to me: 'Take courage, Penelope, this is no dream. The geese are
+the wooers, but I, the eagle, am thy husband, and I have come to kill
+those impudent robbers that vex thee.'"
+
+Odysseus answered her: "The eagle gave the right explanation, O lady.
+The dream could not have had any other meaning. Odysseus will come
+and slay the wooers, and not one shall escape him."
+
+"Dreams do not always come to pass," rejoined Penelope, "but I
+heartily wish that this might be fulfilled. Be patient a little longer,
+for I have one thing more to say. To-morrow is a decisive day, for
+it may be the one that drives me from the palace. I shall propose
+a contest for my hand. Twenty years ago Odysseus set up twelve axes,
+one behind the other, in the court. Through the rings of the handles
+he shot an arrow, although he stood at a great distance. I will
+challenge the suitors to take the same bow and send the arrow through
+the rings as Odysseus did. He who succeeds shall lead me forth a bride,
+to his own palace."
+
+Odysseus responded: "Do not let the contest be put off. Odysseus will
+be at hand a long time before any of the suitors can bend his bow."
+
+"Thy words, O stranger, are comforting," said Penelope. "I could sit
+and listen to thee all night. But as thou art in need of rest, I will
+retire to my apartment, and the maids shall spread rugs before the
+fire for thee." Penelope, having said this, went up to her room, her
+maids following her, and she wept, thinking of her royal lord, until
+Athena closed her eyes in sleep.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XLVI
+ATHENA ENCOURAGES ODYSSEUS
+
+
+Odysseus was lying on his bed, but he could not sleep, for he was
+thinking how he might destroy the suitors. Suddenly Athena appeared
+to him, and said: "Odysseus, why dost thou lie awake? Thou art in
+thine own house and near thy wife and child." "All this is true, O
+goddess," answered Odysseus. "But I am only one and the suitors are
+many. How shall I, single-handed, meet this multitude of men?"
+
+"Sleep in peace, Odysseus," returned Athena. "To lie awake saps the
+life and strength of men. The time has come when all thy sufferings
+shall end. The gods protect thee and they are stronger than armed
+warriors." Thus spoke the goddess, and, closing his eyelids with sweet
+slumber, she flew up to Olympos.
+
+While Odysseus was sleeping, his wife had waked, and, sitting on her
+bed, addressed a prayer to Artemis: "Rather let me die, O goddess,
+than become the wife of any other man than Odysseus. The very thought
+vexes me day and night. Just now I had a dream. I seemed to see Odysseus
+just as he was when he started out for Troy. I was so glad that I
+could not believe that it was not a reality."
+
+She prayed aloud, and soon daylight appeared. Odysseus heard the voice
+and it filled his heart with anxiety. He arose and hastily placed
+the rugs on which he had slept on a bench in the palace. Then he went
+out into the open air. Telemachos had risen also, and he went forth
+to the market-place. Eurycleia called the servants together and
+ordered them to be quick about their work, for a festival was to be
+celebrated that day and the wooers would come early.
+
+There was a busy time. The menials obeyed, some bringing water, some
+sweeping the floors, others polishing the benches and covering them
+with royal tapestries. The servants of the suitors came also and cut
+wood for the fires. Eumaios arrived early, driving three fat hogs.
+He saluted Odysseus and asked him if he were well treated by the
+suitors, or if they continued to scoff at him. Odysseus answered him:
+"May the gods punish the ruthless men who perpetrate such wrongs in
+a stranger's home." While they were talking together the goatherd
+joined him, and repeated the sneers and abuse of the preceding day.
+Odysseus took no notice of it, except to shake his head as one who
+plans direful things.
+
+The master herdsman now came along with a fat heifer and choice goats
+for the day's banquet. Offering his hand to Odysseus, he exclaimed:
+"Hail to thee, stranger! A long and happy life be thine! Methinks
+my master must be clothed in rags and wandering like thee. Thou dost
+bring his image to my mind. I hope he may return and drive these suitors
+out of his palace." "Be sure that he will come, herdsman; thou wilt
+see him with thine own eyes, when he slays the ruthless suitors, and
+then thou wilt know who is lord of the palace," replied Odysseus.
+
+The suitors were talking apart from the rest and conspiring to take
+the life of Telemachos, when an eagle wheeled over their heads,
+tearing a timid dove. With hearts foreboding ill at this omen, they
+went into the hall to begin the banquet, while the herdsman went his
+way first saying, "When Odysseus comes, call on me, and I will show
+how strong my arm is to deal a blow at his enemies."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XLVII
+THE LAST BANQUET OF THE SUITORS
+
+
+The suitors had now arrived in the great banquet-hall and taken their
+places at the tables. The servants brought bread and meat and placed
+it before them, while Melanthios filled their goblets with wine.
+Telemachos placed Odysseus near the door, and gave him an ample supply
+of food, saying: "Eat and drink, stranger, without fear. None of the
+wooers shall assail thee, for I will stand guard."
+
+One of the suitors, an evil-minded man with a rich father, said to
+his companions: "My friends, this stranger enjoys his meal greatly.
+It does not become any one of us to begrudge good things to the guests
+of Telemachos. I, too, wish to give him a present, which he in turn
+may bestow on some other beggar." With that he seized an ox's foot
+and hurled it at Odysseus.
+
+Odysseus dodged it by holding down his head. Telemachos grew angry
+and rebuked the suitor in these words: "Ktesippos, thou hast escaped
+death. It is well that this stranger avoided thy blow, for if thou
+hadst struck him, my sharp spear would have pinned thee to the wall,
+and thy father would have prepared a burial instead of a wedding for
+thee."
+
+Dreadful forebodings of woe began to fill the hearts of the suitors.
+Their speech became rambling and they laughed insanely. They ate and
+drank like men deranged.
+
+Penelope now entered the great hall and took her seat upon a
+magnificent throne, right in front of the suitors. She heard the
+maudlin laughter and saw the gluttonous feasting as the revel ran
+high. Then Athena came and moved her mind to immediate action, and
+she went up to the farthest chamber with her maids, where the arms
+of Odysseus were stored. His bow and deadly arrows, so long unused,
+were there, with rich treasures and perfumed garments. She wept as
+she took the bow from its case and went out, followed by the servants,
+who carried down costly prizes, such as Odysseus gave when festivals
+with games were held in his halls.
+
+She took her place, standing before the suitors, and addressed them:
+"Ye noble suitors, listen to my words. Cease to eat and drink and
+come to the contest. Too long have ye lived at my table, giving as
+an excuse that ye would win me as a bride. The suitor who can bend
+this bow and send this arrow through these twelve axes shall claim
+me as his wife, and I will follow him to his home."
+
+Penelope called to the swineherd and the herdsmen to place the rings
+and carry the bow to the suitors. Each in turn tried to do so, but
+were overcome with grief at seeing their master's weapons, and laid
+them down.
+
+Antinoös lifted up his voice and chid them: "Ye foolish peasants,
+must your eyes flow with tears at this feast? Bring the bow or leave
+the palace. Methinks we shall have hard work to bend this bow, for
+none of us have such sinews as had Odysseus."
+
+Then Telemachos took up the bow and laughed. "I must have lost my
+wits," he said, "for I am glad that this contest will take place.
+There is not such another woman in Greece as my stately mother. Make
+no delay then. I long to see the man who can bend the bow. I would
+that I might bend it myself and win the right to keep her in her own
+home. Then I should be spared the grief of losing her."
+
+Telemachos took off his cloak and laid his sword aside. He placed
+the axes in a row and took the bow and made three attempts to bend
+it, but did not succeed. He would have accomplished the feat if he
+had made one more effort, but Odysseus made a sign to him to desist,
+so he set the bow against the wall and went back to his seat.
+
+The first suitor to make the trial had never been pleased with the
+insolence of the wooers, and had great foresight and was called their
+seer. His hands were soft and delicate. He could not bend the bow,
+but he predicted that it would be the instrument to bring death to
+the whole crew.
+
+Antinoös reproached him for his prophecies, and ordered Melanthios
+to light a fire and bring a slice of fat, that the bow might be warmed
+and oiled to make it pliable. They warmed it and rubbed it with oil,
+and tried to bend it. One after another, each in turn, they made trials,
+but all in vain.
+
+In the meantime Odysseus went to the swineherd and the master of the
+herds, who had displayed such loyalty. He said to them: "My friends,
+what if Odysseus should come; would you take part with him, or join
+the crowd of suitors? Speak truly." The two men answered, appealing
+to the gods to bear witness, that they would stand by their master
+to the end.
+
+"Behold," said Odysseus, "I am the master that you love. I have come
+to my own land after twenty years of suffering, and among all my
+servants I hear none pray for my return save you two. And now that
+you may surely recognize me I will show you the scar made by a boar
+on Parnassos." He raised his ragged tunic for a moment and they looked
+at the scar. They recognized their long-lost master, and threw their
+arms around him and wept, and kissed his hands and feet.
+
+Odysseus begged them to desist, lest the suitors should notice it
+and discover him. And he instructed them to bring the bow to him and
+place it in his hands, after all the wooers had failed to bend it.
+And he told them to shut and lock the doors, so that the maid-servants
+could not hear the groans of the dying men, for they might run out
+and warn the town.
+
+Eurymachos and Antinoös were the last to make trial of the bow.
+Eurymachos sat before the fire and warmed it on both sides, but he
+could not bend it. He was vexed beyond measure, and said: "It is not
+that I care for Penelope, for there are other women that would suit
+me just as well, but if we are weaker than Odysseus our sons will
+hear of it in future times and be ashamed of us."
+
+Antinoös took up the word: "Eurymachos," he said, "this is a day held
+sacred to Apollo, god of the silver bow. He should have no rival.
+Let the bow alone, lest the god be angry and leave the axes standing
+in a row. No one will dare to touch them. Let Melanthios bring goats,
+and we will offer up sacrifices to the god and invite his aid. Then
+we shall have strength to win in this struggle."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XLVIII
+ODYSSEUS BENDS THE BOW
+
+
+The suitors approved the words of Antinoös. The heralds filled their
+cups with wine, and the wise Odysseus waited until they had drunk
+to their hearts' content.
+
+Then he lifted up his voice and said: "Hear me, ye suitors of Penelope,
+while I advise that you defer this trial of your strength until another
+day. Apollo will then bestow the power on one of you to triumph over
+the others. Let me practise with the bow to-day, to see if I have
+any of my youthful strength, or if I have lost it through suffering
+and want."
+
+The suitors were moved with desperate fear and anger. "Thou senseless
+beggar," said Antinoös, "is it not enough that we allow thee to sit
+at a banquet with the proudest men alive? Thou art drunk and thy mind
+wanders. What would come to thee if thou shouldst bend this bow? Verily
+we would sell thee for a slave to the great enemy of men."
+
+Then said Penelope: "Indeed, Antinoös, it is not large-minded to deny
+this poor old man the pleasure of trying the bow.
+
+"Dost thou think I would go forth as the wife of a beggar? Nay, the
+stranger has no hope of that. Do not let your minds be teased with
+such thoughts."
+
+Eurymachos, the leading suitor, rejoined: "Our care is not that thou
+wilt wed this man. But we fear the ridicule of the people, who will
+say, 'These are great men, indeed, who are outdone in strength and
+skill by a miserable old beggar.' It would be a never-ending shame
+to us."
+
+"Nay, Eurymachos," replied Penelope, "real shame comes on him who
+robs a good man and brings trouble to his family. This beggar claims
+to be of good blood, and his arm is sinewy. Let him try the bow. I
+make a solemn promise that if Apollo grant him the honor of bending
+the bow, I shall do no less than bestow upon him a tunic and a cloak,
+and sandals, and I will give him a sword with which he can defend
+himself. Then he can go where he likes."
+
+Telemachos saw that the great crisis was at hand. "Mother," he said,
+"it rests with me to give the bow or withhold it. Such matters belong
+to men, and in this palace the authority is mine. Take thy maids,
+then, and retire to thy apartments, and ply the tasks most suitable
+to women."
+
+The queen recognized her son's wisdom, and withdrew with her maids
+to the upper rooms. There she wept for the beloved monarch, her absent
+lord, until Athena sent a soothing sleep to comfort her.
+
+In the meanwhile the swineherd took up the bow and undertook to carry
+it to Odysseus. The suitors shouted their disapproval, and he became
+confused and set it down. Telemachos called out above the clamor and
+gave command for him to carry it along. The suitors laughed to hear
+the young man's voice ring out like a trumpet and drown all other
+noises. Odysseus took the bow and turned it from side to side,
+examining it in every part. Telemachos, in a low tone, bade Eurycleia
+make fast all the doors, and the master herdsman tied the gates of
+the outer court with a ship's cable.
+
+The suitors grew uneasy, and one of them said to another: "See the
+beggar, how he turns the bow this way and that! He would have us think
+that he is an expert in the use of bows." Odysseus stretched the cord
+and made it fast from end to end. He put it to his ear to try its
+tenseness as a minstrel tunes his harp. It sang like a bird. With
+perfect ease he drew the cord and let the arrow fly. It screamed like
+a swallow and went through every ring from the first one to the last.
+The suitors turned pale. Zeus sent a loud thunder-clap and Odysseus
+rejoiced at the omen. He sprang to the threshold with his bow in hand
+and a quiver full of arrows at his side, and shouted: "The contest
+is ended. Now I will choose another target."
+
+Antinoös had just put a golden goblet to his lips, and was about to
+drink the delicious wine. An arrow pierced his throat. He dropped
+the cup and fell to the ground, and as he fell his feet struck the
+table. The bread and meat were scattered in every direction over the
+floor. The suitors sprang to their feet and looked for the weapons
+on the walls. The spears were gone, and the lances and all the armor.
+
+Even yet they were blind to the fact that the stranger had slain
+Antinoös purposely. They poured out threats. "Fool," they said, "what
+art thou doing? How couldst thou be so careless! Thou hast slain the
+noblest man in Ithaca. Dogs and vultures shall devour thee. Never
+again shalt thou be allowed a trial with the bow."
+
+"Dogs," cried Odysseus, "ye little thought your chief would ever
+return from Troy, and therefore ye have robbed me of my wealth and
+vexed my wife with offers of marriage, regardless of the laws of god
+and man. But now the hour of your death has come and your doom is
+certain."
+
+The suitors trembled and looked for some open door through which to
+fly for safety. Only Eurymachos took courage to make a defence. "If
+thou art indeed Odysseus, thou hast good cause to complain of wrongs,"
+he said. "But thou hast slain the leader, Antinoös, who prompted us
+to do these wrongs. He had no thought of love for thy wife. He wanted
+to gain thy land and rule over thy people. Spare the rest of us and
+we will make ample restitution."
+
+A dreadful frown spread over Odysseus' face, and he replied:
+"Eurymachos, I will not take thy wealth nor will I spare thy life.
+Now choose between the two, either to fight or fly from death. Be
+sure no suitor shall escape my vengeance."
+
+The suitors all grew faint with fear. Eurymachos cried out to them:
+"Ye Ithacans, this man will stand there at the door and shoot us all
+down one by one. Out with your swords! Hold up the tables for shields,
+and rush upon him, all of you, at once. Drive him out of the gates,
+and then hurry through the city and give a general alarm."
+
+With a fearful shout Eurymachos then drew his own sword and sprang
+toward Odysseus. A deadly arrow from the famous bow met him and he
+fell upon the table, upsetting it, and he went spinning round with
+it on the paved floor, while the food and cup of wine were scattered
+all about. His head struck upon a stone and his feet against a chair.
+Death closed his eyes.
+
+Another suitor drew his sword and rushed toward Odysseus. Telemachos
+met him with a lance and slew him. Then Telemachos sprang to his
+father's side and said: "My father, I will bring thee javelins and
+a shield, and I will arm myself and the swineherd and the master
+herdsmen." "Make haste, my son," responded Odysseus, "for I have but
+few arrows left."
+
+Telemachos hastened to the room where the arms had been stored and
+clothed himself in brass. His loyal herdsmen also put on splendid
+armor, and they hastened back to Odysseus with a complete outfit for
+him. The chief had used up his arrows, and now he dressed himself
+in armor and took the lances. Just then he perceived that the suitors
+had by some means been supplied with armor also. He called to
+Telemachos, who had left the door ajar leading to the apartment where
+the arms had been placed for safety.
+
+Melanthios, the goatherd, had sneaked in and was slyly bringing
+shields and helmets down to them. Telemachos saw him, and gave orders
+to the herdsmen to lock the doors of the armory and secure the spy.
+They hastened to the armory and found Melanthios, who had come back
+for a second load. They cast him on the floor and tied his arms down
+so that he could not move them. Then they took a rope and made two
+loops in it and swung him safely to the timbers in the roof, saying:
+"Melanthios, thou hast a soft bed, and it is where thou canst keep
+watch. In the morning thou canst drive thy goats to the suitors'
+banquet." They locked the doors and left him there and took their
+places at Odysseus' side.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XLIX
+DEATH OF THE SUITORS
+
+
+The combat grew more stubborn. Athena, in the guise of Mentor, stood
+near Odysseus and cheered him on. "Woe unto thee, Mentor, if thou
+dost dare to help Odysseus," cried one of the suitors. "We will not
+spare thee when we have slain him. More yet, we will drive thy wife
+and children out of Ithaca and keep thy wealth." The goddess, in great
+anger at this audacity, turned toward Odysseus and said: "Thou art
+not so swift and terrible in fighting, O Chieftain, as thou wert before
+the walls of Troy."
+
+Athena said this to spur Odysseus on, but she did not remain at his
+side. She changed herself into a swallow and perched upon a rafter
+of the great hall, to put his prowess to a greater test. When she
+had gone, the suitors grew braver and threw their spears at Odysseus
+thick and fast. But their aim was uncertain, and they struck pillars
+and panels and the wall, for the goddess turned their shafts aside.
+
+Odysseus and Telemachos and their faithful servants hurled their
+lances, and the weapons always hit the mark. The cowherd struck
+Ktesippos in the breast and exclaimed, as the suitor fell: "Ktesippos,
+I give thee this spear in exchange for the ox's foot which thou didst
+throw at Odysseus as a gift when he asked alms of thee."
+
+Four of the wooers fell to the ground at once and the remainder
+retreated to the farthest corner of the hall. Still they rallied for
+another onset. Odysseus rushed in upon them and cut them down right
+and left, while Athena from above shook her fearful ægis. The
+surviving wooers were stricken with terror and ran about like a herd
+of oxen chased by a swarm of gadflies. Only the minstrel Phemios and
+the herald Medon were spared. Both of them had served the suitors
+most unwillingly and had secretly advised with Telemachos.
+
+Odysseus searched up and down the hall to see if any suitor could
+be found alive. As fishes lie upon the beach when they have been poured
+out from the nets upon the sand, so lay the multitude of wooers. Not
+one survived.
+
+Then Odysseus called Eurycleia and bade her summon all of the impudent
+and unfaithful servants who had taken sides with the suitors. They
+came into the hall and with loud laments took up the slain and carried
+them out as they were commanded, and placed them in a walled court.
+Then they cleaned the hall with water and sponges, and polished the
+wood and set everything in order.
+
+When this was done, they were driven like a flock of birds into a
+narrow place outside and hung to a beam to die wretchedly. Melanthios
+also was brought down from the armory and cast among the dogs to die.
+
+The palace now was purged with the smoke of sulphur, and the air was
+purified with incense. The loyal servants crowded about their
+chieftain and welcomed him with glad salutations. They kissed his
+hands and face, and wept and laughed for joy. Odysseus was deeply
+moved and sobbed aloud.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER L
+EURYCLEIA ANNOUNCES THE RETURN OF ODYSSEUS TO PENELOPE
+
+
+Eurycleia, with an exulting heart, now hurried up the lofty stairs
+and stood by the queen in her royal chamber. "Penelope," she cried,
+"my child, Odysseus has come. Thy husband is here, and he has slain
+the whole crew of insolent suitors who squandered his riches and
+scoffed at his son." Prudent Penelope answered her: "Eurycleia, thou
+art mad. The gods have taken thy wits away. Do not mock me with such
+idle tales. If any other maid had come on such an errand and waked
+me from sleep, I would have dismissed her with anger."
+
+"Nay, dear child, I do not mock thee; Odysseus has come and is now
+sitting by the hearth. The beggar whom they scoffed at in the hall
+was Odysseus. Telemachos knew it, but dared not tell thee until the
+suitors should be slain."
+
+Penelope rose from her couch and seized Eurycleia by the hands.
+
+"Tell me, dear nurse," she said, "tell me truly, if in fact my husband
+has returned, how was it possible that he alone could destroy such
+a multitude of haughty men!" "I did not see it," responded the old
+nurse, "but I heard the groans of the dying men as I sat with the
+other maids in our own rooms. The doors were locked to bar us from
+the hall. When Telemachos called me, I found Odysseus surrounded by
+the slain. When we had washed the hall and purged it with smoke and
+purified the air with incense, thy husband ordered me to call thee.
+Follow me now, my child, that your heart may be gladdened after it
+has been oppressed so long with sorrows."
+
+Penelope replied again: "Nay, I cannot believe it. The gods may have
+slain the suitors under the guise of Odysseus, but he has perished
+far away from home and never will return."
+
+"My daughter," said the aged nurse, "what words are these? I
+recognized Odysseus myself by the well-known scar made by the boar's
+tusk. I turned to tell thee, but he laid his finger on my lips and
+said: 'Be silent. Let no one know that I am here until the suitors
+all are slain, or else they will destroy me.' Now follow me. I pledge
+my life that I speak the truth."
+
+Penelope descended from her royal bower uncertain how to meet her
+lord. She crossed the threshold and sat down at the hearth, opposite
+Odysseus, who was seated beside a stately column in the blazing light
+of the fire. He did not lift his eyes to look at his wife, but waited
+for her to make the way open for him to speak. Penelope was speechless.
+She looked at her husband and seemed sometimes to recognize him, and
+then the resemblance faded out and he did not seem at all like
+Odysseus.
+
+Telemachos became impatient and spoke to her, chiding her. "Mother,"
+he said, "thou art hard-hearted and unkind. Any other woman would
+extend a hearty welcome to her husband after he had suffered so many
+years of hardship, wandering in foreign lands. Take thy place at my
+father's side and question him. Verily thy heart is harder than a
+stone." "My son," answered Penelope, "I seem to have lost the power
+to speak. I am dazed and cannot even command myself to look at him.
+If this is indeed Odysseus we soon shall know each other, for there
+are secrets known to us two only."
+
+Odysseus smiled and said: "My son, be patient, and let thy mother
+put me to the test. She does not know me in these rags, but she will
+soon be convinced that I am Odysseus. It is more important now to
+prevent the news that the suitors have been slain from spreading.
+They have friends all over the city. Who knows but what they may rise
+up against us. I deem it best that we bathe and put on fresh garments,
+and let the servants do the same.
+
+"And let the minstrel bring his lyre and strike up such music as
+prompts the dance, so that those living near us may report that a
+wedding is being celebrated. Then we may safely venture forth and
+see what is to be done."
+
+Thus spoke the monarch, and his commands were gladly obeyed.
+Telemachos and the servants went their way to the baths and arrayed
+themselves in splendid clothing. The bard took his harp and woke the
+pleasing strains, and the palace halls resounded with mirth and
+dancing.
+
+After awhile those outside were heard to say: "Shame on Penelope!
+She weds a second time, and does not even know whether her absent
+lord is dead or living. She might have waited for him to return."
+
+Meantime Odysseus followed a servant to the bath, and when he had
+been bathed and anointed he put on garments suitable for a king. Athena
+gave him a more majestic appearance, and caused his hair to fall in
+heavy curls, like the petals of the hyacinth. When he came back to
+the great hall and stood before the queen, he looked like an immortal.
+
+"Lady," he said, "the gods have given thee a stubborn heart. Any other
+woman would have given a glad welcome to her husband after he had
+been absent twenty years." To this Penelope responded: "Not so; I
+have no pride nor a cold heart. But I should be unworthy of my lord
+if I accepted a stranger without putting him to the proof. I remember
+well when thou didst go to Troy. Thou didst command Eurycleia to carry
+thy massive bed out into the open air and cover it with fleeces."
+
+"Nay, woman, no living man could perform such a feat. I built that
+massive frame myself. It was a tall olive-tree that grew within one
+of the courts. Round it I built a royal bower, and, cutting off the
+great limbs of the tree, shaped them and fastened them to the trunk.
+In this wise I built the frame, and no one could move it without
+dragging the tree out by the roots. That is a secret known only to
+thee and me."
+
+Penelope had put the final test, and knew that this was surely Odysseus.
+She rose from where she sat and ran to him and threw her arms about
+his neck and kissed his brow. "Odysseus, do not be angry with me,"
+she said. "Many are they who have tried to practise deception upon
+me. Thou hast made me believe in thee." These words pierced Odysseus'
+heart and brought him the relief of tears. He pressed his faithful
+wife to his bosom again and again.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER LI
+ODYSSEUS VISITS HIS FATHER
+
+
+Early the next morning Odysseus dressed himself in his splendid armor
+and bade his son and servants accompany him to the farm. They took
+their weapons and went forth, Odysseus leading the way. It was not
+long before they came to the green fields which were cared for by
+Laertes. He had built his house there, and surrounded it with cabins,
+where his servants slept.
+
+Odysseus was anxious to know whether his father would recognize him
+or not, so he said to one of the men: "Go into the house and call
+my father. Let me see whether he will know me, after I have been so
+long away." Placing his weapons in their hands, he went down into
+the orchard. There were no servants about, for they had all gone off
+to gather thorns with which to build a fence.
+
+There Odysseus saw his father working around a young tree that he
+had just planted. He was clad in old, coarse clothes that had been
+repeatedly patched, a goat-skin cap, and gloves to protect his hands
+from the briers.
+
+It was pitiful to see the want of hope in the old man's face as he
+moved about brooding over his troubles. Odysseus was uncertain
+whether he should throw his arms about his father's neck and clasp
+him to his heart and kiss him, or whether it were better to question
+him.
+
+He approached Laertes gently and, having greeted him, said: "My friend,
+thou art a skilful farmer. Every fig and vine and pear and olive has
+been carefully trained. But no one seems to care for thee. Thy master
+treats thee badly, for thou art ill-clad and unkempt. An old man
+deserves better things. Thy face does not look like the face of a
+servant. Indeed one might take thee for a king. Now tell me, who owns
+this orchard? And tell me also if this land is Ithaca. I desire to
+learn what became of Odysseus, the son of Laertes. He was once my
+guest and one that I made most welcome."
+
+Laertes wept. "Thou art indeed in Ithaca, O stranger," he said. "But
+thou dost seek in vain for Odysseus. The land is full of wicked men,
+and there is no host to load thee with generous gifts, a recompense
+for thy hospitality. Oh, tell me of my son; when did he lodge with
+thee? Woe is me! The beasts and birds have long since devoured him.
+No mother folded his shroud about him, nor did his father or his loyal
+wife weep upon his bier. Tell me, what is thy name? Where is thy ship?
+How didst thou come here?"
+
+Odysseus was overcome with pity, and invented a tale to prepare
+Laertes for his unexpected coming. Then he clasped the dear old man
+in his arms and kissed his trembling hands, and said: "I am thy son,
+my father; I am the Odysseus of whom thou dost inquire. Here is the
+scar given me by the wild boar as I hunted on Parnassos. And for further
+proof I will tell thee of the orchard-trees thou gavest me when I
+was a child. There were thirteen pear-trees, forty fig-trees, and
+ten apple-trees. Forbear thy weeping and cease to mourn. I have slain
+the suitor-robbers who were destroying my riches, and I have taken
+possession of my house again."
+
+Overwhelmed with joy, the old king trembled from head to foot. The
+sturdy chieftain, Odysseus, saw it and drew him to his heart to keep
+him from fainting, and held him there until his strength came back.
+Then they went up to the house, where a supper had been prepared,
+and Telemachos was waiting. Laertes went to the bath and came back
+clad like a king. The grief had left his face, and he took on his
+old majestic appearance. As they sat at the banquet, relating the
+experiences of the past years, Dolius and his sons, the servants who
+had gone in search of thorns, returned. Dolius recognized Odysseus
+and seized him by the hand and saluted him with joyful greetings,
+and his sons gathered round the chieftain eager to take his hand.
+
+Meantime the souls of the suitors had gone down to the abode of Pluto.
+Hermes led them, and they followed, crying and wailing like bats in
+a dark cave. The shades of Achilles, Agamemnon, Ajax, and other heroes
+saw them and constrained them to relate the mishaps that had brought
+them there. Then Agamemnon's ghost responded: "Fortunate Odysseus!
+His fame shall last forever, and poets shall sing the praises of
+Penelope in all the coming ages."
+
+Ere Odysseus and Laertes had finished their feast, the news of the
+dreadful death of the suitors spread over the city. The wooers had
+many friends, and they came to the palace weeping and mourning, ready
+to avenge their slaughter. Finding that Odysseus was not at home,
+they proceeded to the market-place. The father of Antinoös arose and
+lifted up his voice crying for vengeance, but Medon, the herald,
+warned them that a god had taken part against them and that strife
+would be useless.
+
+Halitherses, a wise and reverend citizen, took up the word: "Ye men
+of Ithaca," he said, "give ear to what I have to say. Odysseus was
+not the cause of your misfortunes, but you, yourselves. Ye would not
+check the insolence of the suitors, even when Mentor bade you do it.
+Contend not with Odysseus nor bring down his wrath upon us."
+
+The Ithacans were now divided against themselves. Half of them took
+up arms to make war on Odysseus, and started for his father's house.
+In this adversity Athena did not forget her favorite chief, but armed
+herself, and, taking on the guise of Mentor, placed herself at
+Odysseus' side. A son of Dolius was first to announce that a crowd
+was marching against them, when they all arose quickly, donned their
+armor, and went outside.
+
+Then Odysseus cried out to Telemachos: "Now is the moment to show
+thyself a hero, my son. Do not bring disgrace upon thy forefathers,
+for they are renowned over the whole world for their bravery."
+Telemachos responded: "There is no danger of that, my dear father,
+as I shall show thee presently." When Laertes heard this he rejoiced
+and said: "This is a happy day for me. How blest am I to see my son
+and grandson rivals in brave deeds."
+
+Athena now drew near to the old king, and inspired him with youthful
+courage. He swung his spear aloft and threw it at the leader of the
+host and smote him to the earth. Odysseus and Telemachos rushed into
+the fray with double-edged swords. They would have made an end of
+the whole multitude, but Athena called aloud: "People of Ithaca, cease
+from fighting! Retire at once from this contest and shed no more
+blood."
+
+The Ithacans grew pale with fright at hearing the voice of the goddess.
+They threw down their weapons and ran toward the city in a panic of
+fear. Odysseus shouted in triumph as he gave chase, but Zeus sent
+a thunder-bolt down as a sign to Athena that she should restrain him.
+The goddess called to him to cease the pursuit, and, taking the guise
+of Mentor, she moved the minds of Odysseus and his enemies to mutual
+pledges of peace and good-will.
+
+
+
+
+VOCABULARY AND NOTES
+
+
+A chil' les--also called Pelides, the hero of the "Iliad." He was
+the son of Peleus (king of Phthia in Thessaly) and the sea-nymph,
+Thetis.
+
+Æ gē' an--a sea east of Greece.
+
+Æ' o lus--the keeper of the winds, and king of Lipara, one of the
+Æolian isles north of Sicily.
+
+Ag a mem' non--leader of all the Greek chiefs in the Trojan war.
+
+A' jax, or Aias--king of Salamis and cousin of Achilles. He was the
+son of Telamon and was called Ajax the Greater.
+
+Al ex ăn' drŏs--Paris, son of Priam.
+
+Al kin' ŏ ös--king of Scheria, father of Nausicaä. He gave aid to
+Odysseus when he was stranded on the island.
+
+An tin' o ös--the boldest of the suitors.
+
+Aph ro dī' te--Venus, the goddess of love and beauty. The island of
+Kythera (Cythera), south of Greece, was the seat of her worship.
+
+A pŏl' lo--the Sun-god, brother of Artemis and son of Zeus and Leto.
+The island of Dēlos was his mythical birthplace and his principal
+oracle was at Delphi.
+
+Ar ca' di a, or Arkadia--the central district of the Peloponnesus.
+
+A re' tè (ä rā' tā)--wife of Alkinoös and queen of Scheria.
+
+Ar e thū' sa--a spring "where the swine of Eumaios ate 'abundance
+of acorns and drank the black water.'" (See Baedeker's
+Greece--Ithaca.) Arethusa was also the name of a water-nymph
+inhabiting the spring.
+
+Ar' gus, or Argos--the most celebrated dog known to fame. He belonged
+to Odysseus.
+
+Ar' te mis, or Diana--goddess of the moon and sister to Apollo. She
+was called the hunter-goddess and the protector of animals.
+
+As' phō del--a flower sacred to Persephone. The souls of the departed
+were supposed to wander in meadows adorned with these beautiful
+flowers.
+
+A thē' nē, or Athena; Latin, Minerva--the patron deity of Athens.
+The city was named for her. Ruskin calls her the "Queen of the Air,"
+and explains her real significance as being the inspiration of the
+soul, which corresponds to the physical vigor and life received by
+inhaling the pure air. She is always called the "Goddess of Wisdom."
+
+A' treus (a' trūse)--son of Pelops and father of Agamemnon.
+
+Au' lis--a bay and town on the coast of Greece, about thirty miles
+north of Athens. "The scanty ruins of Aulis lie on the rugged ridge
+of rock which stretches into the sea between the two bays. The little
+town never attained any importance, for its site was unfavorable for
+the development of a community; but the two sheltered bays were
+excellently adapted to be the rendezvous of a fleet." (See Baedeker's
+Greece--Aulis.)
+
+Cad' mus, or Kadmos--the founder of Thebes in Bœotia. According to
+tradition, he came from Phœnicia and brought the alphabet to the
+Greeks and the knowledge of working in metals.
+
+Cal' chas, or Kalchas--a soothsayer. He offended Agamemnon by
+declaring that the Greeks suffered from the wrath of the gods through
+his offences.
+
+Ca lyp' so--the goddess of Silence, daughter of Oceanos and Tethys,
+and queen of Ogygia. She tried by every art to detain Odysseus on
+his way home from Troy.
+
+Cas san' dra--a daughter of Priam, and a prophetess, taken captive
+in the Trojan war and awarded to Agamemnon.
+
+Cha ryb' dis--a whirlpool off the coast of Sicily, a little to the
+north of Messina.
+
+Cir' cè, or Kirkē--the daughter of Hēlios, the Sun. She was an
+enchantress who lived on the island Ææa. She infused into the vine
+the intoxicating quality found in the juice of the grape. "The grave
+of Circe used to be pointed out on the island of St. George, close
+to Salamis." (See Baedeker's Greece--Salamis.)
+
+Cy' clops, or Kyklops, also called Polyphemus--a monstrous one-eyed
+giant. He was the son of Poseidon. It was due to his prayer for revenge
+that Odysseus was kept so long wandering on the sea.
+
+Cy the' ra, or Kythera--a rocky island lying south of Greece. It was
+the seat of the worship of Aphrodite.
+
+Dē' los--an island about sixty miles southeast of Athens. It is the
+mythical birthplace of Apollo and Artemis.
+
+Dē mod' o kos--a bard at the court of Alkinoös.
+
+E' lis--a district and a city in the northwestern part of the
+Peloponnesus. Like Sparta, the city had no walls. It was protected
+by the sacred peace of Olympia.
+
+The plain or precinct of Olympia is situated in the district of Elis.
+Pyrgos is the nearest railroad station. "Olympia owed its high
+importance throughout the entire Grecian world to the famous Olympic
+games in honor of Zeus, which took place periodically for centuries.
+Excavations there have brought to light many magnificent pieces of
+sculpture, among them the Hermes of Praxiteles."
+
+El pē' nor--one of the comrades of Odysseus. He fell from the roof
+of Circè's palace and was killed.
+
+E lys' ian--pertaining to Elysium, the abode of dead heroes and other
+happy spirits.
+
+Eu mai' os, or Eumæus--the swineherd of Odysseus.
+
+Eu rō' tas--a river of southern Greece.
+
+Eu ry' a los--a son of Alkinoös.
+
+Eu ry clei' a (ū ry clī' ä)--the nurse of Odysseus and Telemachos.
+
+Eu ry' lŏ chos, or Eurylochus--one of the companions of Odysseus.
+
+Eu ry' ma chos, or Eurymachus--one of the suitors of Penelope.
+
+Gor' gon--a monster of fearful aspect, a daughter of Phorkys and Ceto.
+Her hair was entwined with serpents, her hands were of brass, her
+body covered with scales, and anyone gazing upon her was turned into
+stone.
+
+Hel' en, or Helenē--a daughter of Tyndareus and Leda. She was the
+wife of Menelaos and was always called "the most beautiful woman in
+the world."
+
+Hel' las--Greece, the land of the Hellenes.
+
+Hē' li os--the god of the Sun.
+
+He phais' tos, or Hephæstus--Vulcan. He was the blacksmith god, the
+god of fire, and a worker in metals.
+
+Hē' ra, Hērē--Juno, the wife of Zeus. She was worshipped as the queen
+of heaven and was regarded as a model of womanly virtue. Argos was
+the chief centre of the worship of Hera.
+
+Hēr' a kles, or Hercules--a celebrated hero whose deeds are connected
+with many localities. There is a cave near Nemea where he is said
+to have slain a lion, not far from Stymphalos, where he put the Harpies
+to flight, and Erymanthos, the scene of the killing of the Erymanthian
+boar. There are traditions of his heroism connected with Thessaly
+(Thebes) and Locris, also.
+
+Her' bart--a German philosopher and pedagogian.
+
+Her' mēs, or Mercury--the messenger of the gods, also their herald.
+
+Her mi' ŏ ne--the daughter of Menelaos and Helen.
+
+Ho' mer--the greatest of the Greek poets and author of the "Iliad"
+and "Odyssey."
+
+I' da--a mountain of Asia Minor, east of Troy.
+
+Il' i ad--an epic poem, probably the greatest ever written, devoted
+to the deeds of Achilles, and taken by the best scholars of modern
+times as an interpretation of Greek life, Greek thought, and the Greek
+religion.
+
+I' no, or Leucothea--a daughter of Cadmus, a sea-nymph who helped
+Odysseus by giving him an enchanted veil.
+
+Iph i gen ei' a--the daughter of Agamemnon and Clytemnestra. "Ulrichs
+has discovered the site of the famous Temple of Artemis or Diana,
+where Agamemnon was on the point of sacrificing his daughter
+Iphigeneia, before the departure of the Greek fleet for Troy." (See
+Baedeker's Greece--Aulis.) To appreciate the character of this
+famous woman one must read the "Iphigeneia in Aulis" of Euripides
+and the "Iphigeneia in Tauris" of Goethe.
+
+Ith' a ca, or Ithaka, Greek Ithákē--rocky island with an area of 37½
+square miles and 12,500 inhabitants. "The world-wide fame of this
+little island is of course due to the Homeric epic of the Odyssey,
+in which the misfortunes and wiles, the wanderings, and home-coming
+of Ulysses (Odysseus), King of Ithaca, have been handed down to
+posterity in undying verse. Even if the person of the hero be relegated
+to the realm of myths, it is indisputable that the descriptions of
+the poem rest upon a more or less exact local knowledge; and this
+is evident not only in the account of the situation and general
+character of the island but also in numerous small details.... The
+island became almost entirely depopulated in the middle ages, in
+consequence of the raids of pirates and the Turkish wars, and did
+not begin to recover until the Venetian epoch. But similar conditions
+of life make the modern islanders resemble the ancient. To this day
+the Ithacans are distinguished by their bold seamanship, their love
+of home, and their hospitality." (See Baedeker's Greece--Ithaca.)
+
+Ja' son, or Iason--the hero who undertook the expedition in search
+of the Golden Fleece.
+
+Ktes ip' pos, or Ctesippus--one of the suitors of Penelope.
+
+Lak e dai' mon, or Lacedæmon--a district in southeastern Greece.
+Sparta was its capital.
+
+La ër' tes--the father of Odysseus.
+
+La o' da màs--a son of Alkinoös.
+
+La o' co ön, or Laokoön--a young priest of Apollo. He warned the
+Trojans not to accept the wooden horse left by the Greeks and was
+destroyed by a serpent.
+
+Lo' tus--the Egyptian water-lily, also a tree. The lotus-eaters ate
+of the fruit of the lotus-tree and forgot their homes and friends.
+
+Me lăn' thi os--a servant of Odysseus, a goatherd who sympathized
+with the suitors and served them.
+
+Men e lā' os, or Menelaus--a son of Atreus and brother of Agamemnon.
+Menelaos was the king of Sparta and husband of Helen.
+
+Men' tor--the wise counsellor of Telemachos.
+
+Mil tī' ä des--the hero of the battle of Marathon, fought 490 B.C.
+In this battle the Greeks, numbering 10,000 men, conquered ten times
+as many Persians.
+
+Mi' nos--a son of Zeus and ruler over Crete.
+
+Mo' ly--a fabulous plant having magic properties. It had a white
+blossom and a black root.
+
+My cē' næ, or Mykēnai--an ancient city of Argolis, in the northeastern
+Peloponnesus. "Dr. Henry Schliemann, in 1876, made rich discoveries
+there, weapons, ornaments, vessels of gold, silver and clay,"
+skeletons "surrounded by bands of gold, golden shovels engraved with
+battle-scenes," etc. (See Baedeker's Greece--Mycenæ and Athens.)
+
+Myr' mĭ dŏns--a warlike people of Thrace, ruled by Achilles and taken
+by him to the Trojan war as followers.
+
+Nau sic' a ä--the daughter of Alkinoös.
+
+Nē ŏp tŏl' ĕ mŏs--the son of Achilles.
+
+Nĕs' tor--the leader of the warriors of Pylos, in southwestern Greece.
+
+O ke' a nos, or Oceanus--the god of the river Oceanus, and son of
+Heaven and Earth.
+
+Od ys' seus (sūse), or Ulysses--the son of Laertes and Anticleia and
+the hero of Homer's Odyssey. Being summoned to the Trojan war, he
+feigned madness, and harnessed a mule and a cow to a plough and began
+ploughing the sea-shore. Palamedes, to test his madness, placed his
+infant son, Telemachos, in front of the plough, and Odysseus quickly
+turned it aside. He became famous for his bravery and craft in the
+war. He is looked upon by critics as the most perfect type of adult
+Greek ideals.
+
+[Illustration: ODYSSEUS FEIGNS MADNESS]
+
+O lymp' os, or Olympus--a mountain in Thrace. The home of the gods.
+
+O rĕs' tēs--the son of Agamemnon.
+
+Par' is, or Alexandros--a son of Priam. At his birth there was a
+prophecy that he would be the ruin of his country; hence he was cast
+out upon Mount Ida, where he was found and rescued by a shepherd.
+(See Introduction.)
+
+Par nas' sos--a mountain near the north coast of the Corinthian Gulf.
+It is 8,070 feet high and commands a view of Mount Olympos to the
+north, Eubœa on the east, the islands of the Archipelago, the
+Peloponnesus, and even Mount Korax.
+
+Pat' rŏ klos, or Patroclus--the intimate friend of Achilles. His death
+at the hands of the Trojans provoked Achilles to action.
+
+Pei sis' tra tos--a son of Nestor.
+
+Pē' leus--the father of Achilles.
+
+Pel op on nēs' us--the peninsula of lower Greece.
+
+Pe nel' o pe--the wife of Odysseus. The greatest heroine of ancient
+romance.
+
+Pĕr sĕph' ō ne, or Proserpine--daughter of Demeter (Ceres). "She was
+the goddess of Spring and was allowed to spend two-thirds of the year
+with her mother, while the remaining time she dwelt with her husband,
+Hades, in his underground abode." Eleusis, twelve miles west of Athens,
+was the centre of the worship of Demeter and Persephone. (See
+Baedeker's Greece--Eleusis.)
+
+Phai a' ki ans, or Phæacians--the people of the island of Scheria,
+over whom Alkinoös ruled.
+
+Phē' mi os--a bard at the court of Odysseus.
+
+Phor' kys--the harbor where the Phæacians landed Odysseus on his
+return to Ithaca. "The Bay of Vathy," says Baedeker, "disputes with
+the Bay of Dexiá the honor of being the Harbour of Phorkys."
+
+Plu' to, or Hades--a son of Rhea and Kronos and brother of Zeus and
+Poseidon. Pluto was the ruler of the lower world.
+
+Po sei' don, or Neptune--brother of Zeus and Hades. Poseidon was the
+ruler of the seas and was the first to train and employ horses.
+
+Pol y phe' mus, or Polyphemos or Cyclops--the son of Poseidon. He
+was one of the Cyclops or Kyklops who were said to live in the heart
+of burning mountains, particularly in Mount Ætna.
+
+Pri' am, or Priamos--king of Troy and father of Paris.
+
+Pro' teus--an ocean deity who lived at the bottom of the sea. He took
+care of Poseidon's sea-calves and was famous for his evasiveness.
+
+Py' los--a town (and bay) in the southwestern part of lower Greece.
+It was the centre of Nestor's kingdom.
+
+Sa' mos--"at present a little village on the island of Cephalonia,
+the starting-point of the boats to Ithaca. In Homer, the _island_
+of Cephalonia, or its east part, is called Samē; and in the latter
+part of the Odyssey, Samos appears as belonging to the kingdom of
+Ithaca." (Baedeker.) Samos, a large island near Asia Minor, is not
+related to the Samos of the Odyssey.
+
+Ska man' dros, or Scamander--a river of the Troad or plains of Troy.
+
+Scher' i a--an island northwest of Greece. "The ancients identified
+Corfù with the Phæacian island of Scheria, mentioned in the 'Odyssey,'
+as ruled over by Alkinoös." (Baedeker.)
+
+Skyl' la--a rock in southwestern Italy. It was supposed to be the
+abode of a monster with many heads and hands.
+
+Sky' ros--a large island east of Greece.
+
+Sim' o is--a river in the Troad, and a branch of the Scamander.
+
+Si' rens--daughters of Achelöos and a Muse, or, according to another
+account, daughters of Phorkys. They failed to care for Persephone
+when Pluto seized her to carry her off, and Demeter took revenge by
+transforming them into monsters half woman and half bird.
+
+Sis' y phos--a hero who secured a fountain to the citadel of Corinth
+by betraying Zeus. Sisyphos was punished by being obliged to roll
+stones up-hill in Hades.
+
+Spar' ta--a town in the southern part of the Peloponnesus, on the
+Eurotas. It was the chief city of Lacedæmon and the home of Menelaos
+and Helen. It had no walls, but its acropolis was covered with temples.
+Ancient Sparta was noted for the bravery of its people. At present
+Sparta has about 3,600 inhabitants. There are few relics of its
+ancient greatness.
+
+Styx--a stream of water in central lower Greece. "The thread of water
+descends from a huge cliff against a background of dark moss, which
+has earned for the brook the name of 'Black Water.' At the bottom
+of the cliff the water loses itself in a chaos of rocks. The ancients
+saw in the icy coldness of the water and in the barren tract around
+an image of the underworld." (See Baedeker's Greece.) To swear by
+the Styx was to take "the great oath of the gods."
+
+Tan' ta los--a king of Phrygia punished by the gods for treachery
+and for cruelty to his son. He was doomed to suffer from hunger and
+thirst while standing close to food and water which he could not reach.
+
+Tē lĕ' ma chos--the son of Odysseus and Penelope.
+
+Ten' e dos--an island in the neighborhood of Troy or Ilium.
+
+Them is' to kles--a great statesman of Athens, and a leader of the
+Greeks in the Persian war when the Greeks won the battle of Salamis.
+
+The' seus (Thē' sūse)--a son of Ægeus and Æthra. Like his counterpart
+Herakles, Theseus performed wonderful deeds, and finally became
+ruler of Athens.
+
+Thes' sa ly--a large province of northern Greece.
+
+Thĕ' tis--a sea-nymph, the mother of Achilles.
+
+Ti res' ias, or Teiresias--a Theban seer. He retained his
+consciousness after death, and Odysseus descended into Hades to
+consult with him before he could reach Ithaca.
+
+Troy, Ilios, or Ilium--a city of Asia Minor and the scene of the Trojan
+war. Dr. Schliemann has identified the city with Hissarlik, and in
+his excavations there found many evidences of the war, such as spears,
+helmets, etc.
+
+Zeus, or Jupiter--a son of Kronos and Rhea. His abode was supposed
+to be on Mount Olympos, in Thessaly. He was considered the highest
+of the gods, ruler of the heavens and the earth.
+
+Za' kyn thos, or Zante--an island near Corfù.
+
+
+
+
+[Transcriber's note: The publishers of this book used an unusual
+convention in which only a single pair of quotation marks surround
+a quote, even when the quote extends over multiple paragraphs or
+multiple chapters.  This transcription has conventional usage of
+quotation marks.]
+
+
+
+
+*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK ODYSSEUS, THE HERO OF ITHACA ***
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+<!DOCTYPE HTML PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD HTML 4.01 Transitional//EN">
+<html>
+<head>
+<meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8">
+<title>The Project Gutenberg eBook of Odysseus, the Hero of Ithaca, by Homer and Mary E. Burt</title>
+
+<style type="text/css">
+
+    body {margin-left: 20%; margin-right: 20%; text-align:justify}
+    h1   {text-align:center}
+    h2   {text-align:center}
+    h3   {text-align:center}
+    h4   {text-align:center}    
+
+</style>
+</head>
+<body>
+
+<div style='text-align:center; font-size:1.2em; font-weight:bold;'>The Project Gutenberg eBook of Odysseus, the Hero of Ithaca, by Homer</div>
+<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and
+most other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions
+whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms
+of the Project Gutenberg License included with this eBook or online
+at <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org">www.gutenberg.org</a>. If you
+are not located in the United States, you will have to check the laws of the
+country where you are located before using this eBook.
+</div>
+<div style='display:block; margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:1em; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em'>Title: Odysseus, the Hero of Ithaca<br>
+Adapted from the Third Book of the Primary Schools of Athens, Greece</div>
+<div style='display:block; margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:1em; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em'>Author: Homer</div>
+<div style='display:block; margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:1em; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em'>Editor: Mary Elizabeth Burt</div>
+<div style='display:block; margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:1em; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em'>Translator: Zenaïde Alexeïevna Ragozin</div>
+<div style='display:block;margin:1em 0'>Release Date: March 16, 2008 [eBook #24856]<br>
+[Most recently updated: March 3, 2021]</div>
+<div style='display:block;margin:1em 0'>Language: English</div>
+<div style='display:block;margin:1em 0'>Character set encoding: UTF-8</div>
+<div style='display:block; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em'>Produced by: Ron Swanson</div>
+<div style='margin-top:2em;margin-bottom:4em'>*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK ODYSSEUS, THE HERO OF ITHACA ***</div>
+
+<a name="ill1" id="ill1"></a>
+<table align="center" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="6"
+summary="frontispiece">
+<tr>
+<td width="619"><img src="images/1.jpg" alt=
+"ODYSSEUS AS A YOUTH AT HOME WITH HIS MOTHER"></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td width="619" align="center">ODYSSEUS AS A YOUTH AT HOME WITH
+HIS MOTHER</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<h1>ODYSSEUS</h1>
+<h2>THE HERO OF ITHACA</h2>
+<br>
+<center><big>A</big>DAPTED FROM THE <big>T</big>HIRD
+<big>B</big>OOK OF THE <big>P</big>RIMARY<br>
+<big>S</big>CHOOLS OF <big>A</big>THENS,
+<big>G</big>REECE</center>
+<br>
+<br>
+<center>BY</center>
+<h3>MARY E. BURT</h3>
+<center><small><i>Author of "Literary Landmarks," "Stories from
+Plato," "Story of the<br>
+German Iliad," "The Child-Life Reading Study"; Editor of<br>
+"Little Nature Studies"; Teacher in the John A.<br>
+Browning School, New York City</i></small></center>
+<br>
+<br>
+<center><small>AND</small></center>
+<h3>ZENA&Iuml;DE A. RAGOZIN</h3>
+<center><small><i>Author of "The Story of Chaldea," "The Story of
+Assyria," "The Story<br>
+of Media, Babylon, and Persia," "The Story of Vedic India";<br>
+Member of the Royal Asiatic Society of Great Britain and<br>
+Ireland, of the American Oriental Society, of the<br>
+Soci&eacute;t&eacute; Ethnologique of Paris,
+etc.</i></small></center>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<h2>CHARLES SCRIBNER'S SONS</h2>
+<h4>NEW YORK             CHICAGO            BOSTON</h4>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<center>C<small>OPYRIGHT</small>, 1898, <small>BY</small><br>
+CHARLES SCRIBNER'S SONS<br>
+<hr width="10%">
+Printed in the United States of America</center>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<center>To<br>
+<br>
+<big>THE TEACHER</big><br>
+<br>
+WHOSE INTEGRITY AND PEDAGOGICAL SPIRIT<br>
+<br>
+HAVE CREATED A SCHOOL WHEREIN THE IDEAL MAY<br>
+<br>
+PROVE ITSELF THE PRACTICAL<br>
+<br>
+<small>AND</small><br>
+<br>
+<big>THOSE ENTHUSIASTIC PUPILS</big><br>
+<br>
+WHO LOVE THE LOYALTY AND BRAVERY OF ODYSSEUS<br>
+<br>
+THIS BOOK IS DEDICATED</center>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<h2>CONTENTS</h2>
+<a href="#introduction"><big>I</big>NTRODUCTION</a><br>
+<br>
+<center>
+<hr width="20%"></center>
+<h3>PART I</h3>
+<center><big>A</big>N <big>I</big>NTRODUCTION TO THE
+<big>L</big>IFE OF THE <big>H</big>ERO,
+<big>O</big>DYSSEUS</center>
+<table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="6" summary=
+"part 1">
+<tr>
+<td align="right"><small><small>     CHAPTER</small></small></td>
+<td> </td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td align="right">I.</td>
+<td><a href="#chap1">About Troy and the Journey of Paris to
+Greece</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td align="right">II.</td>
+<td><a href="#chap2">The Flight of Helen</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td align="right">III.</td>
+<td><a href="#chap3">The Greeks Sail for Troy</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td align="right">IV.</td>
+<td><a href="#chap4">The Fall of Troy</a></td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+<br>
+<center>
+<hr width="20%"></center>
+<h3>PART II</h3>
+<center><big>T</big>HE <big>R</big>ETURN OF <big>O</big>DYSSEUS
+TO <big>H</big>IS <big>O</big>WN <big>C</big>OUNTRY</center>
+<table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="6" summary=
+"part 2">
+<tr>
+<td align="right"><small><small>     CHAPTER</small></small></td>
+<td> </td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td align="right">V.</td>
+<td><a href="#chap5">Odysseus on the Island of Calypso</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td align="right">VI.</td>
+<td><a href="#chap6">Odysseus Constructs a Raft and Leaves the
+Island</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td align="right">VII.</td>
+<td><a href="#chap7">Odysseus is Saved on the Island of
+Scheria</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td align="right">VIII.</td>
+<td><a href="#chap8">Nausica&auml; is Sent to the River by
+Athena</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td align="right">IX.</td>
+<td><a href="#chap9">Odysseus Arrives at the Palace of
+Alkino&ouml;s</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td align="right">X.</td>
+<td><a href="#chap10">Odysseus in the Halls of
+Alkino&ouml;s</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td align="right">XI.</td>
+<td><a href="#chap11">The Banquet in Honor of Odysseus</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td align="right">XII.</td>
+<td><a href="#chap12">Odysseus Relates His Adventures</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td align="right">XIII.</td>
+<td><a href="#chap13">The Lotus-Eaters and the Cyclops</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td align="right">XIV.</td>
+<td><a href="#chap14">The Cave of the Cyclops</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td align="right">XV.</td>
+<td><a href="#chap15">The Blinding of the Cyclops</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td align="right">XVI.</td>
+<td><a href="#chap16">Odysseus and His Companions Leave the Land
+of the Cyclops</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td align="right">XVII.</td>
+<td><a href="#chap17">The Adventures of Odysseus on the Island of
+&AElig;olus</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td align="right">XVIII.</td>
+<td><a href="#chap18">Odysseus at the Home of
+Circ&egrave;</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td align="right">XIX.</td>
+<td><a href="#chap19">Circ&egrave; Instructs Odysseus Concerning
+His Descent to Hades</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td align="right">XX.</td>
+<td><a href="#chap20">The Adventures of Odysseus in
+Hades</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td align="right">XXI.</td>
+<td><a href="#chap21">Odysseus Converses with His Mother and
+Agamemnon</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td align="right">XXII.</td>
+<td><a href="#chap22">Conversation with Achilles and Other
+Heroes</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td align="right">XXIII.</td>
+<td><a href="#chap23">The Return of Odysseus to the Island of
+Circ&egrave;</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td align="right">XXIV.</td>
+<td><a href="#chap24">Odysseus Meets the Sirens, Skylla, and
+Charybdis</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td align="right">XXV.</td>
+<td><a href="#chap25">Odysseus on the Island of
+H&#275;lios</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td align="right">XXVI.</td>
+<td><a href="#chap26">The Departure of Odysseus from the Island
+of Scheria</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td align="right">XXVII.</td>
+<td><a href="#chap27">Odysseus Arrives at Ithaca</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td align="right">XXVIII.</td>
+<td><a href="#chap28">Odysseus Seeks the Swineherd</a></td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+<br>
+<center>
+<hr width="20%"></center>
+<h3>PART III</h3>
+<center><big>T</big>HE <big>T</big>RIUMPH OF
+<big>O</big>DYSSEUS</center>
+<table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="6" summary=
+"part 3">
+<tr>
+<td align="right"><small><small>CHAPTER</small></small></td>
+<td> </td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td align="right">XXIX.</td>
+<td><a href="#chap29">Athena Advises Telemachos</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td align="right">XXX.</td>
+<td><a href="#chap30">Telemachos Astonishes the Wooers</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td align="right">XXXI.</td>
+<td><a href="#chap31">Penelope's Web</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td align="right">XXXII.</td>
+<td><a href="#chap32">The Journey of Telemachos</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td align="right">XXXIII.</td>
+<td><a href="#chap33">Telemachos in Pylos</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td align="right">XXXIV.</td>
+<td><a href="#chap34">Telemachos in Sparta</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td align="right">XXXV.</td>
+<td><a href="#chap35">Menelaos Relates His Adventures</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td align="right">XXXVI.</td>
+<td><a href="#chap36">The Conspiracy of the Suitors</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td align="right">XXXVII.</td>
+<td><a href="#chap37">Telemachos Returns to Ithaca</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td align="right">XXXVIII.</td>
+<td><a href="#chap38">Telemachos and the Swineherd</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td align="right">XXXIX.</td>
+<td><a href="#chap39">Telemachos Recognizes Odysseus</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td align="right">XL.</td>
+<td><a href="#chap40">Telemachos Returns to the Palace</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td align="right">XLI.</td>
+<td><a href="#chap41">Odysseus is Recognized by His Dog</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td align="right">XLII.</td>
+<td><a href="#chap42">Odysseus Comes, a Beggar, to His Own
+House</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td align="right">XLIII.</td>
+<td><a href="#chap43">Conversation of Odysseus and
+Penelope</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td align="right">XLIV.</td>
+<td><a href="#chap44">Eurycleia Recognizes Odysseus</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td align="right">XLV.</td>
+<td><a href="#chap45">Penelope's Dream</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td align="right">XLVI.</td>
+<td><a href="#chap46">Athena Encourages Odysseus</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td align="right">XLVII.</td>
+<td><a href="#chap47">The Last Banquet of the Suitors</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td align="right">XLVIII.</td>
+<td><a href="#chap48">Odysseus Bends the Bow</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td align="right">XLIX.</td>
+<td><a href="#chap49">Death of the Suitors</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td align="right">L.</td>
+<td><a href="#chap50">Eurycleia Announces the Return of Odysseus
+to Penelope</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td align="right">LI.</td>
+<td><a href="#chap51">Odysseus Visits His Father</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td align="right"> </td>
+<td><a href="#vocabulary">Vocabulary and Notes</a></td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<h2>LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS</h2>
+<br>
+<p><a href="#ill1">O<small>DYSSEUS AS A</small> Y<small>OUTH
+AT</small> H<small>OME WITH</small> H<small>IS</small>
+M<small>OTHER</small></a></p>
+<p><a href="#ill2">T<small>HE</small>
+S<small>ILVER</small>-F<small>OOTED</small> T<small>HETIS</small>
+R<small>ISING FROM THE</small> W<small>AVES</small></a></p>
+<p><a href="#ill3">O<small>DYSSEUS AND</small>
+M<small>ENELAOS</small> P<small>ERSUADING</small>
+A<small>GAMEMNON TO</small> S<small>ACRIFICE</small>
+I<small>PHIGENEIA</small></a></p>
+<p><a href="#ill4">A<small>LPHEUS AND</small>
+A<small>RETHUSA</small></a></p>
+<p><a href="#ill5">T<small>HE</small> S<small>WINEHERD</small>
+T<small>ELLING</small> H<small>IS</small> S<small>TORY TO</small>
+O<small>DYSSEUS</small></a></p>
+<p><a href="#ill6">O<small>DYSSEUS</small> F<small>EIGNS</small>
+M<small>ADNESS</small></a></p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<a name="introduction" id="introduction"></a>
+<h2>INTRODUCTION</h2>
+<br>
+<p>It has long been the opinion of many of the more progressive
+teachers of the United States that, next to Herakles, Odysseus is
+the hero closest to child-life, and that the stories from the
+"Odyssey" are the most suitable for reading-lessons. These
+conclusions have been reached through independent experiments not
+related to educational work in foreign countries.</p>
+<p>While sojourning in Athens I had the pleasure of visiting the
+best schools, both public and private, and found the reading
+especially spirited. I examined the books in use and found the
+regular reading-books to consist of the classic tales of the
+country, the stories of Herakles, Theseus, Perseus, and so forth,
+in the reader succeeding the primer, and the stories of Odysseus,
+or Ulysses, as we commonly call him, following as a third book,
+answering to our second or third reader. This book I brought home
+with me and had a careful, literal translation made. I submitted
+this translation to that notable scholar, Zena&iuml;de A.
+Ragozin, with whom I faithfully traversed the ground, word by
+word and sentence by sentence. This version I have carefully
+compared with Bryant and rewritten, making the language as simple
+as could be consistent with the dignity of the
+subject-matter.</p>
+<p>The introduction to the original book as I found it in Greece
+contains many interesting points, since it shows that educators
+in foreign countries, notably in Germany, had come to the same
+conclusion with our best American teachers. The editor of the
+little Greek reading-book says:</p>
+<p>"In editing this work we have made use not only of Homer's
+'Odyssey,' <i>but also of that excellent reader which is used in
+the public schools of Germany</i>, Willman's 'Lesebuch aus
+Homer.' We have divided the little volume into three parts, the
+first of which gives a short <i>resum&eacute;</i> of the war
+against Troy and the destruction of that city, the second the
+wanderings of Odysseus till his arrival in Ithaca, the third his
+arrival and the killing of the wooers. We have no apology to make
+in presenting this book to the public as a school-book, since
+many people superior to us have shown the need of such books in
+school-work. The new public schools, as is well known, have a
+mission of the highest importance. They do not aim, as formerly,
+at absolute knowledge pounded into the heads of children in a
+mechanical way. Their aim is the mental and ethical development
+of the pupils. Reading and writing lead but half way to this
+goal. With all nations the readers used in the public schools are
+a collection of the noblest thoughts of their authors."</p>
+<p>The Greek editor had never read the inane rat and cat stories
+of American school "readers" when he wrote that. He
+continues:</p>
+<p>"Happily the Greek nation, more than any other, abounds in
+literary masterpieces. Nearly all of the Greek writings contain
+an abundance of practical wisdom and virtue. Their worth is so
+great that even the most advanced European nations do not
+hesitate to introduce them into their schools. The Germans do
+this, although their habits and customs are so different from
+ours. They especially admire Homer's works. These books, above
+all others, afford pleasure to the young, and the reason for it
+is clearly set forth by the eminent educator Herbart:</p>
+<p>"'The little boy is grieved when told that he is little. Nor
+does he enjoy the stories of little children. This is because his
+imagination reaches out and beyond his environments. I find the
+stories from Homer to be more suitable reading for young children
+than the mass of juvenile books, because they contain grand
+truths.'</p>
+<p>"Therefore these stories are held in as high esteem by the
+German children as by the Greek. In no other works do children
+find the grand and noble traits in human life so faithfully and
+charmingly depicted as in Homer. Here all the domestic, civic,
+and religious virtues of the people are marvellously brought to
+light and the national feeling is exalted. The Homeric poetry,
+and especially the 'Odyssey,' is adapted to very young children,
+not only because it satisfies so well the needs which lead to
+mental development, but also for another reason. As with the
+people of olden times bravery was considered the greatest virtue,
+so with boys of this age and all ages. No other ethical idea has
+such predominance as that of prowess. Strength of body and a firm
+will characterize those whom boys choose as their leaders. Hence
+the pleasure they derive from the accounts of celebrated heroes
+of yore whose bravery, courage, and prudence they admire."</p>
+<p>The editor further extols the advantages arising from the
+study of Homer, it making the youthful students acquainted with
+the earliest periods of Greek history, the manners and customs of
+the people, and he ends by quoting from Herbart:</p>
+<p>"Boys must first get acquainted with the noisy market-place of
+Ithaca and then be led to the Athens of Miltiades and
+Themistokles."</p>
+<p>With equal truth the American can say that the child whose
+patriotism is kindled by the Homeric fire will the more gladly
+respond to the ideals set forth in the history of a Columbus or a
+Washington.</p>
+<div align="right">M<small>ARY</small> E.
+B<small>URT</small>.    </div>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<h4>PART I</h4>
+<h2>AN INTRODUCTION TO THE LIFE<br>
+OF THE HERO, ODYSSEUS</h2>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<a name="chap1" id="chap1"></a>
+<h3>CHAPTER I</h3>
+<h4>ABOUT TROY AND THE JOURNEY OF PARIS TO GREECE</h4>
+<br>
+<p>On the northern shore of Asia Minor there lies a plateau
+watered by many small rivers and surrounded on all sides by
+mountains, only on the north it slopes gently to the sea. On this
+plateau, between the Simois and Scamandros rivers, in the oldest
+times there stood a very rich and powerful city, whose name was
+Troy. It was the capital of a large and fertile district, known
+as the Troad.</p>
+<p>There, about 1200 <small>B.C.</small>, reigned a king by the
+name of Priam, possessed of great power and boundless wealth. He
+had many sons and daughters. It was said, indeed, that he had
+fifty sons who were all married and living in their own homes,
+which they had built by the king's wish around the royal
+palace.</p>
+<p>They were all handsome and heroic young men. One of the
+youngest, Paris, also named Alexandros, surpassed the others in
+beauty. He was a restless youth and not fond of his home, as were
+the others. He had set his heart on travelling and seeing strange
+countries and cities. King Priam was extremely fond of his large
+family, and took pride in having all his children about him, so
+that at first he was greatly opposed to the wishes of Paris.</p>
+<p>But the youth was so persistent and unhappy that the king at
+last consented to let him go. Without delay, Paris called
+together a few friends with tastes as adventurous as his own.
+They embarked in a new ship well provided with all that
+travellers need, and set sail for the famous land on the shores
+of the &AElig;gean Sea, of which they had heard so many wonderful
+things, and which was called Hellas.</p>
+<p>Nearly in the middle of the plain which forms the southern
+part of Hellas was the city of Sparta. It was on the river
+Eurotas, and was the capital of a large district called
+Laced&aelig;mon, and it was to this city that Paris came.</p>
+<p>Now, there was a mysterious reason for this strange desire of
+Paris&mdash;his passionate longing to travel. In his early youth,
+while he was still minding his herds on the rich pastures of
+Mount Ida, he received a visit from the three greatest goddesses
+of Olympos.</p>
+<p>Hera, the queen of Heaven and consort of Zeus&mdash;Athena,
+the goddess of wisdom, and Zeus's favorite daughter&mdash;and
+Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty, had a dispute among
+themselves.</p>
+<p>Each thought herself the most beautiful of the three, and they
+would have come to high words about it had not Athena proposed
+that they should ask the handsomest man in the world to settle
+the question. This happened to be the young royal shepherd,
+Paris. So the three goddesses floated down to the slope of Mount
+Ida on a snowy cloud and placed the question before him, each
+promising to reward him royally if he gave his verdict in her
+favor.</p>
+<p>Paris, as might have been expected, decided in favor of
+Aphrodite, who had promised him that the fairest woman living in
+the whole world should be his wife. This promise had to be kept,
+being given by a goddess, but it was the source of endless
+misfortune, for Paris had a young and lovely wife who was
+tenderly attached to him, while the fairest of living
+women&mdash;acknowledged as such by fame in all known
+countries&mdash;was Queen Helen of Sparta, herself the wife of
+another man.</p>
+<p>Her husband was one of the most renowned heroes of Hellas,
+King Menelaos, a son of Atreus and brother of the leader of the
+Greek chiefs, Agamemnon, King of Mycen&aelig;. It was Aphrodite,
+then, who inspired Paris with an insane desire to forsake his
+parents, brothers, and wife. It was her secret guidance which led
+him across the seas and through the dangers lurking among the
+hundreds of islands of the Archipelagos straight to the land of
+Laced&aelig;mon. This is the central of the three peninsulas in
+which the Peloponnesus ends, and might be called the middle
+finger of that large hand of which Arcadia is the palm.</p>
+<p>Paris landed, with all his companions, on the shores of
+Laced&aelig;mon, where the people received him kindly and helped
+him on his journey to Sparta, where Menelaos and Helen gave him a
+cordial welcome.</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<center>
+<hr width="20%"></center>
+<br>
+<br>
+<a name="chap2" id="chap2"></a>
+<h3>CHAPTER II</h3>
+<h4>THE FLIGHT OF HELEN</h4>
+<br>
+<p>Aphrodite, while leading Paris to the shores of
+Laced&aelig;mon, had not forgotten her promise, and in Sparta
+itself she was at work at its fulfilment. She inspired Queen
+Helen with a growing discontent and restlessness of spirit.
+Menelaos had not noticed any change in her, and it was with an
+utterly unsuspicious mind that he received the fatal strangers
+and made them welcome guests in his land and home.</p>
+<p>More than that, having heard the news from Crete that his
+presence there was desirable on account of some urgent business,
+he did not hesitate to set sail for that island, in the
+expectation of finding Paris and his companions still enjoying
+the hospitality of his palace after a short absence.</p>
+<p>This was the chance which wily Aphrodite had contrived for
+Paris. He took the hint and carried Helen away to his ship,
+together with as much treasure as they could lay hands on, and
+then they sailed for Troy. Little did he heed, in his mad desire
+to call the most beautiful woman in the world his wife, that she
+was already the wife of a hero who had received him as an honored
+guest in his house, and that he was about to destroy the peace
+and honor of his host.</p>
+<p>As soon as Menelaos heard of the flight of his wife, he
+hastened back to Sparta, where he found his palace deserted and
+his treasure-house robbed.</p>
+<p>Then his heart was filled with great wrath. He set out at once
+to see his brother, Agamemnon, to consult with him about what was
+to be done. Agamemnon was ruler over Mycen&aelig;, and highly
+respected in all Hellas on account of his power and riches.</p>
+<p>After the two brothers had talked over this grave affair, they
+announced to all the leaders in Hellas the great and detestable
+crime, and asked them for their assistance. All the king's chiefs
+of Hellas lent a willing ear to this demand, for in this breach
+of hospitality, committed against one of them, each felt himself
+personally aggrieved and bound to help in the punishment of what,
+in those times, was considered the most unpardonable of all
+crimes. Only one of the kings held back for awhile and needed
+much persuasion to join the league. This was Odysseus of Ithaca,
+who could well consider himself at the time the happiest of
+mortals, for he had lately married Penelope, one of the fairest
+and most virtuous maidens of Greece. He had an infant son of
+great beauty and promise, and he owned much land and countless
+herds of cattle, sheep, and swine. Added to that, all the petty
+nobles of the island acknowledged him as their chief.</p>
+<p>But a soothsayer, or seer, had greatly disturbed him by
+informing him that if he went to a great war he would be kept
+away from his home for the space of twenty years, and even then
+return to it in the guise of a beggar, after having suffered
+wrecks, captivity, endless wanderings, and loss of comrades.</p>
+<p>No one could doubt that Odysseus was brave, but no one could
+blame him for wishing to be excused from taking part in the war
+against Troy. Menelaos and his brother, however, would accept no
+excuse from him, as he was the wisest and craftiest of all the
+leaders, and when Odysseus finally consented to join them he set
+about arming and directing the young Greek warriors with all his
+heart and soul.</p>
+<p>There was another young prince whom it was absolutely
+necessary to secure, for a much venerated oracle had given it as
+a decree of the gods that Troy could never be taken without his
+help. This was Achilles, son of Peleus, king of the Myrmidons in
+Thessaly, and of the beauteous ocean nymph, Thetis.
+Notwithstanding his extreme youth, his father would not
+disappoint the whole country, and he let him go with those who
+came for him. But he sent along with him his adopted son,
+Patroklos, who was several years older, and to whom the boy was
+passionately attached, and also his oldest and most trusted
+servant, Ph&oelig;nix. These two, the old man and the youth, he
+charged, as they hoped for the mercy of Zeus, to keep watchful
+guard over Achilles, whose exceedingly impetuous and reckless
+temper exposed him to many dangers which might be averted by a
+sensible and loving word spoken in time.</p>
+<a name="ill2" id="ill2"></a>
+<table align="center" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="6"
+summary="thetis">
+<tr>
+<td width="630"><img src="images/2.jpg" alt=
+"THE SILVER-FOOTED THETIS RISING FROM THE WAVES"></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td width="630" align="center">THE SILVER-FOOTED THETIS RISING
+FROM THE WAVES</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+<p>The Greeks took counsel together, and it was resolved that
+Menelaos should go in person to Troy and demand back his wife,
+Helen, as well as his treasure and a suitable apology for the
+wrong done to him and to all Hellas. He chose for his companion
+the cunning Odysseus. On their arrival in Troy, Menelaos and
+Odysseus presented themselves before Priam and demanded the
+return of Helen and the treasures.</p>
+<p>The king at once called his people together to deliberate upon
+the matter, and the two Greek kings bravely denounced the mean
+act of Paris. But the Trojans, stirred up by that youth, abused
+the ambassadors and drove them out of their city.</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<center>
+<hr width="20%"></center>
+<br>
+<br>
+<a name="chap3" id="chap3"></a>
+<h3>CHAPTER III</h3>
+<h4>THE GREEKS SAIL FOR TROY</h4>
+<br>
+<p>The kings and chieftains of Hellas, having heard that Odysseus
+and Menelaos had been driven out of Troy, hastened to call
+together their fleets and armies at Aulis, a city of B&oelig;otia
+on a ridge of rock running out into the sea between two little
+bays, each of which was a harbor for many ships. A hundred
+thousand men and a thousand ships were gathered there under the
+leadership of the celebrated and heroic chiefs. The
+commander-in-chief of the whole army was Agamemnon.</p>
+<p>Among the renowned leaders were Menelaos, the sagacious
+Odysseus, Ajax, and many others. Just as they were offering a
+sacrifice to the gods, in order to start out to the war with
+their good will, a great miracle happened. A fearful snake crept
+from under the altar and climbed a tree in which there was a
+sparrow's nest nearly hidden by the leaves. There were eight
+young sparrows in the nest, nine birds with the mother. The snake
+devoured the fluttering little birds, around which the mother
+circled as if overcome by grief.</p>
+<p>Then the snake darted at the mother-bird and swallowed it,
+when Zeus changed the reptile into a stone. The Greeks wondered
+at the sight, but the soothsayer, Calchas, said to them: "Why do
+ye wonder at this? The all-powerful Zeus has sent us this sign
+because our deeds shall live forever in the minds of men. Just as
+the snake has devoured the eight little sparrows and their
+mother, so shall the war swallow up the nine coming years, and in
+the tenth we shall overcome Troy."</p>
+<p>The ships of the Greeks lay in the bays of Aulis while the
+warriors waited impatiently to set sail. But the winds were
+contrary; they would not blow, and the boats waited there year
+after year; for a sacred hind had been slain by Agamemnon, one
+that belonged to the goddess Artemis, and it was ordered by that
+goddess that no wind should arise to take them on toward Troy
+until her wrath had been appeased.</p>
+<p>So Agamemnon went to Calchas, the seer, and asked his advice,
+whereupon the old prophet told him to send for his lovely young
+daughter, Iphigeneia, and offer her up on the altar as the only
+acceptable sacrifice to Artemis. When he had placed her upon the
+altar and the priest was raising his knife, the goddess took pity
+on Agamemnon and carried the girl away in a cloud, leaving a fine
+white doe instead.</p>
+<a name="ill3" id="ill3"></a>
+<table align="center" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="6"
+summary="agamemnon">
+<tr>
+<td width="681"><img src="images/3.jpg" alt=
+"ODYSSEUS AND MENELAOS PERSUADING AGAMEMNON TO SACRIFICE IPHIGENEIA">
+</td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td width="681" align="center">ODYSSEUS AND MENELAOS PERSUADING
+AGAMEMNON TO SACRIFICE IPHIGENEIA</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+<p>And now arose a favorable wind, and the Greeks arrived safely
+before Troy. How they fought with the Trojans, how many of the
+heroes outlived the struggle, and how many fell in the battle,
+all this we can learn from an old book called the "Iliad." We
+shall select from it only those things which refer to our hero,
+Odysseus; and to complete the history of that hero we shall go to
+another book, called the "Odyssey."</p>
+<p>Both of these books are the work of the great poet Homer, who
+lived many years after the war with Troy. That we may understand
+better what happened later on, we must give a short account of
+the fall of Troy and of the return of Menelaos and Agamemnon to
+their own country.</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<center>
+<hr width="20%"></center>
+<br>
+<br>
+<a name="chap4" id="chap4"></a>
+<h3>CHAPTER IV</h3>
+<h4>THE FALL OF TROY</h4>
+<br>
+<p>The war lasted nine years, and in the tenth the Greeks
+conquered Troy, not in battle, but by means of a trick which had
+come into the mind of Odysseus. He told a skilful carpenter to
+build a wooden horse of gigantic size, and in it he hid the
+bravest Greek warriors. When he had done this he advised all the
+other Greeks to depart without leaving anything behind them, and
+so lead the Trojans to believe that they had given up the fight
+and gone home.</p>
+<p>So the Greeks burned their tents and put off to sea, while the
+Trojans from their walls watched them with great joy, thinking
+themselves well rid of an enemy. When the last ship had gone, the
+Trojans threw open the gates of their city and rushed down into
+the plain where the Greeks had had their camp, to see how the
+place looked.</p>
+<p>There they found the wooden horse, and one of the Greeks tied
+to a tree, who told them he was left there as a punishment, and
+that the wooden horse was an offering to the gods. The Trojans
+made up their minds to carry it into their city and give it the
+best place on their highest hill.</p>
+<p>Then Laoco&ouml;n, a priest of Apollo, stepped forth, and said
+to them: "Unhappy people! what madness possesses you? Do ye think
+the enemy gone? Do ye know Odysseus so little? There are Greek
+warriors hidden in this horse, or else some other mischief is
+lurking there. Fear the Greeks even when they bring gifts."</p>
+<p>With these words, he thrust his spear into the flank of the
+horse, and the arms of the hidden enemy clashed with a loud
+noise. Just then two snakes of great size, sent by Athena, rose
+from the sea, and sprang upon Laoco&ouml;n and his two sons, and,
+coiling around them, bit them to death. The Trojans, in great
+fear at the sight, took this as a sign from the gods that the
+horse was sacred and that they must protect it, and they moved it
+at once into their city, breaking down a part of their wall to
+get it in.</p>
+<p>Having done this, they gave themselves up to feasting and
+making merry, without the slightest thought that any evil was in
+store for them. But when night had come, and all were in a deep
+sleep, the ships of the Greeks, which had been hiding all the
+while behind a neighboring island, came back. The warriors who
+were concealed in the wooden horse sprang out and rushing wildly
+through the city, slew the Trojans right and left without mercy.
+From all sides came wailings and groans, and the flames of the
+burning city rose up to the sky.</p>
+<p>A deadly struggle took place between the Trojans and the
+Greeks. Priam was slain, and Paris and many other heroes. The
+victory was to the Greeks. Troy fell never to rise again, and the
+women and children were led off to become slaves to their
+conquerors.</p>
+<p>Thus was destroyed in one night the great and glorious city of
+Troy, all on account of the crime which Paris had committed
+against the laws of hospitality.</p>
+<p>The trials of the Greeks were not yet at an end. After their
+victory at Troy they embarked in their ships and started eagerly
+for their homes. But Zeus prepared a sad fate for them, because
+Ajax had violently dragged Cassandra, the beautiful daughter of
+Priam, from the altar of Athena and had made her his slave. Thus
+many of the leaders perished in the sea far from home, and some
+were cast on foreign shores to die.</p>
+<p>Menelaos was thrown by wind and waves on the island of Crete,
+and he lost many of the ships on the cliffs. Thence he strayed to
+the island of Cyprus, noted for its mines; and he roved through
+other lands until he came to Egypt, where he wandered about for
+eight years, when he returned to Sparta, taking Helen with him.
+He became reconciled to his wife, and they lived a quiet life far
+removed from the enchantments of the wily Aphrodite.</p>
+<p>But the saddest fate of all overtook Agamemnon, who met his
+death in his own house at the hands of his wife and brother.</p>
+<p>Agamemnon, without any accident at sea, reached his native
+land. Full of gratitude, he kissed the earth and wept tears of
+joy at the thought of meeting his wife and son.</p>
+<p>He entered his home with a glad heart, and his faithless wife
+came to meet him, but she had prepared a hot bath for him, and
+there he met his death, entangled in a net which she threw over
+him, for she had not forgotten the loss of her beautiful
+daughter, Iphigeneia, whom she believed to have been offered up
+as a sacrifice on the altar of Artemis.</p>
+<p>She was assisted in this dreadful deed by her husband's
+brother, who became ruler over the land, holding sway eight
+years, when Orestes, the son of Agamemnon, slew him and regained
+the kingdom.</p>
+<p>And now we come to the return of Odysseus, the wisest of the
+Greeks, who wandered to the remotest part of the earth and
+learned the customs of many people, and who suffered terrible
+things by land and sea.</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<h4>PART II</h4>
+<h2>THE RETURN OF ODYSSEUS TO<br>
+HIS OWN COUNTRY</h2>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<a name="chap5" id="chap5"></a>
+<h3>CHAPTER V</h3>
+<h4>ODYSSEUS ON THE ISLAND OF CALYPSO</h4>
+<br>
+<p>All the Greeks who had escaped from the destruction of Troy
+and had been spared the terrors of the sea returned to their
+homes. But the unfortunate Odysseus was delayed by the fair nymph
+Calypso on her island, where she made her home in a cool and
+beautiful grotto. There he wept and mourned, desiring to see his
+wife again and his native land. Each of the gods save one,
+Poseidon, god of the sea, wished to help him to find the way
+home. Odysseus had brought Poseidon's wrath upon himself through
+inflicting a terrible injury upon the favorite son of that deity,
+and for that reason the wrath of the god fell on him and he was
+wrecked. One day all the other gods had assembled in the hall of
+Zeus, on Mount Olympos, when Athena, the favorite daughter of
+Zeus and firm friend of Odysseus, knowing that her father in his
+heart was well-disposed toward the hero, began to plead for him
+in a way to excite greater pity still.</p>
+<p>"O my father, thou great king among the gods," she said, "my
+heart is troubled on account of the wise Odysseus, who lingers on
+an island, far away from home, and suffers greatly; for a nymph
+lives on the island, the daughter of great Atlas, and with sweet
+words she strives to make Odysseus forget his native land. But he
+bewails his fate and is full of sorrow, his only wish being to
+have a glimpse of the smoke of his beloved country."</p>
+<p>Zeus thereupon ordered Hermes to depart at once for the island
+and tell the nymph to send Odysseus to his home without delay.
+Hermes obeyed quickly. He bound his winged sandals to his feet,
+and, taking his golden wand in his hand, flew like a meteor over
+land and sea till he reached the island where the nymph Calypso
+made her abode. He found her within the grotto, singing sweetly
+while she wove a fine web on a golden loom.</p>
+<p>All about the grotto there was a grove of cypress-trees in
+which birds of gay colors were sporting and springs of pure water
+bubbling, and the fragrance of strange flowers filled the air.
+When Hermes had gazed upon these wonders he entered the grotto.
+It was bright with a blazing fire on a spacious hearth, and
+fragrant with the odor of burning cedar and cypress.</p>
+<p>Calypso saw him as he came in and knew him. She bade him sit
+down on a throne dazzling with jewels, and, placing a table
+before him laden with nectar and ambrosia, invited him to eat and
+drink. After he had finished his repast, Hermes told her that
+Zeus had sent him to her with the command that she should send
+Odysseus without delay to his native land. Having given this
+message, he disappeared, leaving Calypso in great grief.</p>
+<p>Odysseus in the meantime sat by the shore mourning and gazing
+out upon the sea. Calypso found him there, sitting alone, weeping
+and longing for his home. She stood by him and said: "Odysseus,
+my unhappy friend, do not waste thy life any longer in sorrow.
+The end of thy grief has come. Arise and prepare to depart for
+thy home. Build thee a raft of the trunks of trees which thou
+shalt hew down. I will put bread and water and delicate wine on
+board; and I will clothe thee in comfortable garments, and send a
+favorable wind that thou mayest safely reach thy native
+land."</p>
+<p>Thus spoke the lovely goddess, but Odysseus could hardly
+believe her, and said: "I fear, O goddess, that thou hast some
+other thought in thy mind, and that thou dost not wish to send me
+home when thou biddest me sail over this stormy and dangerous
+sea. I shall never go on to the raft against thy wish, and thou
+must swear the great oath of the gods that no harm shall come to
+me."</p>
+<p>The goddess smiled at these words, and, taking the hero by the
+hand, rejoined: "Thou art a wise man, and thy answer is well
+made. I will pledge thee a solemn oath, by the heavens and the
+earth, and the waters of the Styx, that I have no plan of evil
+against thee. And I advise thee to do as I have instructed thee,
+to be ready for any crisis."</p>
+<p>Speaking thus, the goddess went into the grotto and Odysseus
+followed her. When he had come into the spacious hall, he sat
+down on his throne and the nymph brought him rich food and wine.
+Then she took a seat opposite him, and her attendants brought her
+ambrosia and nectar, which she would gladly have shared with
+Odysseus, that he, too, might become an immortal.</p>
+<p>When the repast was over, Calypso narrated to him all the
+trials he would have to undergo before he could reach his native
+land. While she was relating these things the sun sank down, and
+darkness came upon the island, and all who had their abode in the
+grotto sought rest and slumber.</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<center>
+<hr width="20%"></center>
+<br>
+<br>
+<a name="chap6" id="chap6"></a>
+<h3>CHAPTER VI</h3>
+<h4>ODYSSEUS CONSTRUCTS A RAFT AND LEAVES THE ISLAND</h4>
+<br>
+<p>At daybreak the goddess gave Odysseus a large axe and a sharp
+adze, and led him to the heights of the island, where the largest
+trees grew. He went to work at once and cut down twenty trees,
+which he hewed into proper shape, and then tied them together
+with ropes which he himself made of bark.</p>
+<p>In this way he built a raft which was very large and strong
+enough to stand the onset of the waves. He wove a railing of
+willow and fitted it around the sides of the raft, to protect
+himself against the dashing waves; and he raised a strong mast
+with sails shaped to it, and tightly bound by cords and ropes. He
+filled the crevices of the raft with wax and pitch and attached a
+rudder.</p>
+<p>At the end of the fourth day his work was all done, and his
+little ship was ready to be launched. On the fifth day the
+beautiful goddess prepared the hero a bath and gave him new
+garments fragrant with perfumes. She went down to the boat with
+him and put on board a skin of dark-red wine, a larger one full
+of water, and a bag of dainty food. Then she bade Odysseus a kind
+farewell, and sent a gentle and friendly wind to waft him over
+the waves.</p>
+<p>Odysseus was wild with joy at the thought that he was really
+on his way home once more. He spread his sails to catch the
+breeze and took his seat at the helm, steering the vessel with
+great skill. He did not dare to take any sleep, for he had to
+watch the sky and stars constantly and use them as guides on his
+course. He sailed along in this way seventeen days. On the
+eighteenth he spied land in the distance. It was the land of the
+Ph&aelig;acians, lying like a dark spot off in the sea.</p>
+<p>Then Poseidon, who was returning from Ethiopia, saw him, and
+his wrath grew hot against the hero. He raised up his head and
+said to himself: "Alas! the gods have strangely changed their
+minds about Odysseus during my absence in Africa. Behold! in a
+little while he will be in the land of the Ph&aelig;acians, where
+he will find an end to his troubles. Nevertheless, it is in my
+power to chastise him."</p>
+<p>Speaking thus, Poseidon called the clouds together, and
+seizing his trident he stirred up the sea; then he set loose all
+the winds until there was a general hurricane, and he wrapped
+heaven and earth in the thick darkness of night.</p>
+<p>The mighty waves dashed over the raft, and Odysseus sank on
+his knees and trembled. With a deep groan he said: "Ah me,
+unhappy! Am I to bear more disasters? I fear that the warning of
+the goddess was too true, and that I shall be for a long time
+cast about on the waves before I reach home. With what dark
+clouds Zeus has shrouded the sky! The storm grows wild. What
+terrible waves are these! Helplessly I must perish. Happy the
+Greeks who fell before Troy, fighting for their country! Would
+that I, too, had met death the day when the Trojans hurled their
+spears at me as they strove to take the body of Achilles. If I
+had died then, the Greeks would have buried me with great honors.
+Now I shall die an inglorious death."</p>
+<p>As he spoke a huge wave struck the raft with such terrible
+force that it whirled it around and overturned it. The helm was
+wrung from his hand and he fell into the angry breakers. The mast
+was snapped in two and the ropes and sails flew off into the
+sea.</p>
+<p>Odysseus was under water a long time, striving in vain to come
+to the surface. Finally he rose, spitting the bitter brine out of
+his mouth. Although he was in such a desperate plight, his mind
+was on the raft. Battling bravely with the waves he reached it,
+and springing on board sat down in the middle of it. Thus he
+escaped death.</p>
+<p>The angry waves tossed him hither and thither as the wind
+scatters the leaves over a field. Then Ino, the daughter of
+Cadmus, saw him and took pity on him. She took the form of a
+bird, and, perching on his raft, she said to him: "O, luckless
+man! why is Poseidon so angry with thee? Fear nothing, however;
+he cannot take thy life. Obey me and thou shalt not suffer much
+longer. Lay aside thy clothes, leave the raft to the mercy of the
+winds and waves, and swim to the land. Take my veil and wind it
+about thy breast, and thou shalt not have anything to fear. As
+soon as thou hast reached the land, take it off and throw it back
+into the sea. Then hurry away inland."</p>
+<p>Odysseus hesitated to follow Ino's advice, fearing some
+treachery. But Poseidon sent a huge wave which struck him and
+scattered the raft as if it were dry chaff. Then Odysseus at once
+got astride of the swimming timber. He bound the veil around his
+breast and bravely plunged into the boiling waters.</p>
+<p>Poseidon saw him, and shaking his head he said: "I verily
+believe thou wilt come out alive from the sea. But the sea has
+had thee long enough, so that thou wilt know its power hereafter
+and fear it." Saying this he lashed up his horses and drove
+off.</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<center>
+<hr width="20%"></center>
+<br>
+<br>
+<a name="chap7" id="chap7"></a>
+<h3>CHAPTER VII</h3>
+<h4>ODYSSEUS IS SAVED ON THE ISLAND OF SCHERIA</h4>
+<br>
+<p>Athena, the daughter of Zeus, seeing Odysseus struggling
+through the waves, pitied him, and bade the winds become quiet.
+Two days and two nights Odysseus floated about, but on the third
+the wind calmed down and the sea became smooth.</p>
+<p>In a short time he found himself near land once more. But the
+shore was wild and full of sharp rocks and high cliffs. He could
+see no place on which to set foot, and he grew downhearted. His
+knees gave way, and, groaning deeply, he cried out: "O, luckless
+one! In vain have I braved the dangers of the sea to escape
+death. Now all hope has abandoned me, since there is no way for
+me to get out of the water. I fear that when I try to approach
+the land the waves will throw me against the cliffs, and should I
+try to find a safe landing-place by swimming, the surf may carry
+me back into the wild sea, where some sea-monster will swallow me
+up. Whatever I may do, I see no help for me."</p>
+<p>While he pondered over these things a huge wave cast him on
+the foamy shore. His bones were nearly broken, and he lay
+exhausted until the wave returned, when he was hurled again with
+great force back into the sea. Now the unfortunate wanderer took
+to swimming as his last resort, and reached the mouth of a river,
+where he was able to land.</p>
+<p>Too tired to breathe or speak, he sank down in a swoon. His
+knees and arms trembled, and his whole body was bruised and
+swollen. When his senses returned he rose and untied the veil
+that Ino had given him and cast it back into the sea. Then he
+knelt down and kissed the earth, and moved to a sheltered spot
+where a wild and a tame olive-tree were standing close together,
+whose branches had mingled with one another, and there he found a
+safe hiding-place.</p>
+<p>Then the godlike Odysseus lay down on a bed of dry leaves,
+covering himself up as one does an ember, lest it should go out.
+Athena came and poured sweet sleep over his eyes, that he might
+find quiet rest after all his toils.</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<center>
+<hr width="20%"></center>
+<br>
+<br>
+<a name="chap8" id="chap8"></a>
+<h3>CHAPTER VIII</h3>
+<h4>NAUSICA&Auml; IS SENT TO THE RIVER BY ATHENA</h4>
+<br>
+<p>While Odysseus lay in a deep sleep, the goddess Athena went to
+the royal dwelling of the king of the Ph&aelig;acians,
+Alkino&ouml;s, in order to hasten the return of Odysseus to his
+native land. She entered the house, where she found
+Nausica&auml;, the king's daughter, sleeping in her beautiful
+chamber. Near her lay two maids who served her.</p>
+<p>Athena came as softly as a breath of air, and caused the
+maiden to dream that her marriage-day was near and that it was
+her duty to arise and hasten to the place by the river where they
+washed their clothing. In her dream the princess seemed to hear
+Athena say: "Nausica&auml;, why art thou so slothful? Thy
+beautiful robes lie neglected and thy wedding-day is at hand, on
+which thou surely shouldst wear garments of dazzling whiteness,
+and thou shouldst give such garments to those maidens who lead
+thee forth to thy bridegroom. Therefore, as soon as day breaks
+thou must ask thy father to give thee a pair of mules, and we
+will hasten to the washing-place down by the river."</p>
+<p>At the first dawn of day Nausica&auml; went in haste to her
+father and mother to tell them of her dream. She found them in
+their splendid hall. Her mother sat with her maidens spinning,
+and the king stood on the threshold, just going forth to meet his
+chiefs in council. The princess approached her father and said:
+"Dearest father, I pray that thou wilt give me two mules and a
+wagon, that I may go with my maids to the river and take all the
+clothes that need washing, for it becomes the king and his sons
+to wear clean garments when they go to the council of the chiefs.
+Thou hast five sons, three of whom are youths not wedded, and
+they should be provided with fresh robes; they will need them in
+the dance."</p>
+<p>The king smiled, for he saw what was in her mind, and he
+ordered the mules. Then his beautiful daughter brought from the
+linen-room the soiled garments and put them on the wagon, while
+the queen prepared a goodly lunch of cold meat and bread and a
+skin of sweet wine.</p>
+<p>Nausica&auml; further received from her mother a bottle of
+fragrant oil with which to anoint herself after the washing. Then
+she mounted the wagon, seized the whip and reins, and drove out
+of the city, the maidens of her train following her on foot.</p>
+<p>When they came to the place where the river was flowing bright
+and clear, they unhitched the mules and let them browse along the
+bank. Then they took their garments down from the wagon and
+tossed them into the marble vats which they had filled with the
+limpid water of the stream. When they had washed them clean they
+spread them on the white pebbles to dry. Having finished the
+task, they took a bath and anointed themselves with oil. Then
+they sat down on the shore and ate their lunch.</p>
+<p>The repast over, they began to play ball. First the
+white-armed Nausica&auml; threw the ball. She looked as tall and
+royal among her maids as did Artemis, the daughter of Zeus, among
+her nymphs.</p>
+<p>Nausica&auml; sang a song as they frolicked on the sand.</p>
+<p>When it was time to go home they put the clean garments upon
+the wagon and harnessed up the mules. Just as they started,
+Nausica&auml; once more threw the ball to one of the maidens, who
+failed to catch it. The ball rebounded from the rocks and fell
+into the river, at which the girls raised such a shout that
+Odysseus, who was sleeping close by, awoke.</p>
+<p>He opened his eyes and sat up, saying to himself: "Woe is me!
+Have I reached a country where people dwell? Are they wild and
+inhospitable, or friendly to the stranger and god-fearing? It
+seems to me I heard cries of women. Perhaps they were those of
+the nymphs who inhabit the mountain heights, the springs of
+rivers, and the green meadows, or those of people who live near
+by. But I will see who they are."</p>
+<p>So Odysseus clothed himself as best he could, by winding
+slender branches covered with leaves about him, and left the
+thicket where he was hidden. He went in the direction of the
+voices, stalking along like a great lion. When the girls saw him
+they shrieked and scattered in every direction. Nausica&auml;
+alone stood her ground, for Athena gave her courage. When
+Odysseus saw her he wondered which would be the better, to throw
+himself at the feet of the maiden and beg her to give him some
+clothes and to show him the way to the city, or to speak to her
+with more formality.</p>
+<p>It seemed better to him to remain at a distance, and so he
+addressed her gently, saying: "O queen, I know not whether thou
+art a goddess or a woman. If thou art a goddess, I should take
+thee to be Artemis, because thou art so tall and graceful. If,
+however, thou art a mortal, thrice happy thy father and honored
+mother. Greatly must they rejoice when they see their beautiful
+child in the choral dance. But he will be the happiest who shall
+win thee for a bride.</p>
+<p>"I once saw a young palm-tree growing up beside Apollo's altar
+in the island of D&#275;los. It was the most beautiful tree the
+earth ever produced, and I gazed upon it with wonder and
+reverence. So am I amazed at thy beauty, and I fear to approach
+thee and throw myself as a suppliant at thy feet, although I am
+in sore distress, for great misfortunes have befallen me.</p>
+<p>"It was only last night that I escaped from the sea. On my way
+from Calypso's isle I was driven about for twenty days by the
+angry waves in a violent storm. Now some god has cast me on this
+shore to make me undergo new trials, for I do not believe my
+sufferings have come to an end. Have pity on me, O queen, because
+thou art the first human being I have met after so many
+misfortunes.</p>
+<p>"I do not know one person in this country. Show me thy city, I
+pray, and give me an old robe to wear, no matter how coarse and
+poor, and may the gods bestow all blessings upon thee."</p>
+<p>Nausica&auml; looked at Odysseus in pity and answered:
+"Stranger, thou dost not seem to me to be a man of mean birth or
+breeding, and thou art surely in distress. But it is Zeus who
+distributes gifts to mortals, both the good and the evil things
+of life, and thou must submit to his will with patience.</p>
+<p>"Since thou hast come into our land devoid of all things, even
+garments, and art helpless, I will give thee clothing and tell
+thee the way to the city. And I will tell thee about the people
+living in it, for I am the daughter of the king, Alkino&ouml;s,
+who reigns over this island." When Nausica&auml; had spoken thus
+to Odysseus, she turned to her maids and commanded them not to
+flee from the wanderer, but to bring him food and drink, since
+Zeus sent the poor and the stranger to be cared for.</p>
+<p>And she told them to lead him to some lonely spot by the side
+of the river, where he might bathe at his ease. So the maids came
+back and led the hero to a sheltered place and laid a cloak and
+tunic on the sand, and the bottle of oil which the queen had
+given Nausica&auml;, that Odysseus might anoint and clothe
+himself after his bath; then they ran back to the princess.</p>
+<p>Odysseus bathed in the fresh water of the river and washed the
+salt sea-foam from his hair, and when the bath was over he put on
+the robes that Nausica&auml; had sent. Athena shed a halo of
+beauty over him and caused him to look taller and stronger than
+before.</p>
+<p>As he walked along the beach to rejoin the maidens, they
+admired his noble and kingly bearing, and Nausica&auml; said to
+her maids: "Surely this man does not come among our godlike
+brothers against the will of the gods. I thought him rough and
+homely, but now he seems like one of the immortals. I would that
+I might call a man like him my husband. Make haste to give him
+food and wine, for he has fasted a long time."</p>
+<p>The maids hastened to obey. They looked over what was left of
+the abundant lunch and bade Odysseus eat and drink, which he was
+glad to do. The princess then yoked up the mules and they started
+for home.</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<center>
+<hr width="20%"></center>
+<br>
+<br>
+<a name="chap9" id="chap9"></a>
+<h3>CHAPTER IX</h3>
+<h4>ODYSSEUS ARRIVES AT THE PALACE OF ALKINO&Ouml;S</h4>
+<br>
+<p>After Nausica&auml; had mounted to her seat on the cart, she
+said to Odysseus: "Get ready now, stranger, and we will lead thee
+to my father's palace, where thou wilt meet the chiefs of the
+Ph&aelig;acians. If thou art wise, take well to heart what I
+shall say to thee. As long as we are at a good distance from the
+city there is no harm in going along with us. Just follow close
+to the wagon with my maids.</p>
+<p>"But when we come near to the town thou must go more slowly
+and tarry behind a little, till we have reached my father's hall,
+because I dread the gossip of the baser sort of people whom we
+may meet. After thou hast seen us enter the city, then thou
+mayest enter it also and inquire the way to the king's palace. It
+is very beautiful. Thou mayest easily find it by thyself, for
+there is no other house in the city as large as ours.</p>
+<p>"Enter at once and find my mother and sue to her for
+protection and help, that thou mayest reach thy native land and
+thy dear ones again."</p>
+<p>Having spoken these words, Nausica&auml; touched the mules
+with her long whip and they quickly left the river, wending their
+way toward the city. They reached it at sunset, but Odysseus sat
+down in the sacred grove of Athena, outside of the city to wait,
+and prayed to the goddess that he might receive pity from the
+people of Ph&aelig;acia.</p>
+<p>While he prayed, the damsels went on and soon reached the
+king's palace. Nausica&auml;'s brothers came out and welcomed
+them, and unhitched the mules. When Odysseus had given them time
+to get home, he arose and found his way to the town. He had
+hardly entered it when Athena, in the form of a young girl
+carrying a pitcher of water, met him.</p>
+<p>"My daughter," Odysseus said to her, "canst thou show me the
+way to the king's palace? I am a stranger, and here for the first
+time." Athena answered him: "With pleasure, stranger; the king is
+our neighbor. Follow me, and I will lead thee thither. But on the
+way do not greet anyone or ask questions, for the people here are
+not fond of those who come from other lands."</p>
+<p>Thus spoke Athena and pursued her way with Odysseus following
+her. She threw a veil of darkness over the hero to hide him from
+rude gazers. Odysseus beheld the beautiful port with
+astonishment&mdash;the large ships, the great market-place, and
+the high walls of the city.</p>
+<p>When they reached the palace, the girl stopped and said: "This
+is the house of the king. Go in without any fear, for they love
+brave men, even when they come from afar. The first thing to do
+is to find the queen, whose name is Aret&egrave;.</p>
+<p>"She is greatly honored by the king, and all the people treat
+her as if she were a goddess, on account of her gentleness and
+virtue. In case the queen looks upon thee with favor, thou mayest
+be sure of safely reaching home."</p>
+<p>Having spoken these words, the goddess took a friendly leave
+of the hero, and he entered the outer hall of Alkino&ouml;s,
+where he was bewildered by the splendor. The walls were of brass,
+the doors of gold, and the thresholds and lintels of pure silver.
+On each side of the main entrance gold and silver dogs stood
+guard. They were endowed with life and were immortal, the work
+and gift of the divine Heph&aelig;stus.</p>
+<p>There were two rows of splendid seats in the large
+dining-hall. They were covered with costly mats, and the
+Ph&aelig;acian leaders were wont to sit there and enjoy
+themselves. Golden statues of boys with lighted torches in their
+hands stood on beautiful pedestals and spread light over the
+merry banquets. There were fifty maid-servants in the palace.
+Some of them were grinding corn in the mill. Some spent their
+time in spinning and weaving, for as the men were renowned
+sailors, the women also were famous for making fine cloth.</p>
+<p>There was a large orchard all around the palace, surrounded by
+a thick hedge. In the orchard there was a great variety of
+fruit-trees&mdash;pear, apple, pomegranate, olive, and fig. The
+trees were never bare of fruit, either in summer or in winter,
+for an ever-blowing west wind created such a mild climate that
+the trees were constantly blooming and ripening their fruit.</p>
+<p>There was to be seen a tree full of blossoms, while another
+bent down under the load of ripe fruit. Thus it was with the
+grape-vines in the vineyard close to the orchard. Some were
+blooming, others had only begun to form fruit-buds, while some
+were loaded with ripe clusters ready for the wine-press. At the
+end of the orchard there was a magnificent flower-garden, in
+which the most fragrant flowers were blooming. Two springs also
+bubbled from the ground. One watered the orchard, and the other
+ran to the very door of the palace, and all the people filled
+their pitchers there. Such were the gifts Alkino&ouml;s had
+received from the gods.</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<center>
+<hr width="20%"></center>
+<br>
+<br>
+<a name="chap10" id="chap10"></a>
+<h3>CHAPTER X</h3>
+<h4>ODYSSEUS IN THE HALLS OF ALKINO&Ouml;S</h4>
+<br>
+<p>After Odysseus had contemplated these wonders to his heart's
+content, he entered the main hall. There he found the leaders of
+the Ph&aelig;acians bringing offerings of wine to Hermes, as the
+hour of sleep had arrived, and this was always their last
+ceremony before seeking slumber. No one saw Odysseus as he
+crossed the spacious room and came close to the king and queen,
+for he was still concealed in the thick mist which Athena had
+thrown round him. Suddenly the cloud vanished, and Odysseus threw
+himself at the feet of Aret&egrave;, and raised his voice in
+supplication.</p>
+<p>"Aret&egrave;," he prayed, "I have come to thy husband and to
+thy feet through many hardships and sorrows. May the gods give
+thee a long and happy life. For many years I have been a wanderer
+from home and all I love. I beg that thou wilt give me a guide
+and send me to my own land."</p>
+<p>When Odysseus had spoken these words he sat down amidst the
+ashes, close to the fire, and all the guests grew silent and
+looked at him with wonder. Then the oldest of the chiefs arose
+and said: "Alkino&ouml;s, this is not a royal seat for a
+stranger, among the cinders of the hearth. I pray thee, raise him
+up and place him on a throne, and order the heralds to fill a cup
+with wine, that we may pour a libation to Zeus, the protector of
+suppliants, and bid the guest welcome to our good cheer."</p>
+<p>Then Alkino&ouml;s arose and took Odysseus by the hand. He led
+him to a splendid throne but little lower than his own, while the
+herald placed a table before him loaded with dainty food. When
+Odysseus had eaten and drunk, the attendants filled the cups to
+pour libations in honor of Zeus, and Alkino&ouml;s said to them:
+"Listen, ye leaders and chiefs of the Ph&aelig;acians. To-morrow
+we shall greet the stranger in our palace with honors and offer a
+great sacrifice to the gods. And then we will consider the best
+way of sending him home. But if we should find that he is a god
+instead of a mortal, we will do what seems best, for the gods do
+sometimes visit us in human shape."</p>
+<p>Then said Odysseus: "Nay, Alkino&ouml;s, I am not a god, nor
+like the gods in form or looks. I am only a wanderer, and I could
+tell of fearful sorrows; and I would willingly die if I could
+only see my home once more."</p>
+<p>The guests all greeted Odysseus with approving words, and
+promised to aid him. Then they rose, and each man went to his own
+home.</p>
+<p>Odysseus remained in the hall with Aret&egrave; and
+Alkino&ouml;s. As they conversed, the queen noticed the garments
+of Odysseus, because she had woven them herself, and she said to
+him: "Stranger, who art thou, and from what land? Didst thou not
+say thou hadst come here after many wanderings and voyages on the
+stormy sea? Who gave thee garments of my weaving?"</p>
+<p>Odysseus answered her: "It would not be easy, gracious queen,
+to tell about all my hardships and sufferings. Yet I will do thy
+bidding. I was shipwrecked long since, and thrown upon an island
+far out in the sea, where Calypso, the daughter of Atlas, lives.
+She cared for me most kindly, and would have made me, like
+herself, an immortal, but I chose instead the hope of seeing my
+own native land.</p>
+<p>"The goddess detained me seven long years on her island before
+she bade me start for home. I built a raft, which she stored with
+food, and she sent a pleasant breeze to carry me across the
+waters. But Poseidon stirred the winds and waves against me, and
+I was thrown upon the shores of this island, near the lavers,
+where thy daughter and her maids went to wash the household
+linen. There the princess found me, and supplied me with food and
+the garments I have on."</p>
+<p>"One duty my daughter left undone," Alkino&ouml;s said. "She
+should have brought thee home with her." "Do not blame her, I
+entreat," replied Odysseus, "for she bade me come with her maids,
+but I lingered in a grove to offer a prayer to Athena." When
+Alkino&ouml;s had heard this tale from Odysseus, he promised once
+more to give him a ship and sailors to escort him home.</p>
+<p>Meanwhile the queen bade her servants prepare a bed for the
+hero out on the portico, and they covered a couch with shaggy
+rugs and purple tapestries, where he could rest. With a grateful
+heart Odysseus arose, and, thanking the king for his generous
+hospitality, sought the bed, where he gave himself to happy
+dreams.</p>
+<p>Odysseus rose early the next morning and went with
+Alkino&ouml;s to the market-place, close to the sea, where all
+the Ph&aelig;acians had assembled. The people gazed with
+admiration at their stranger-guest, for Athena lent him greater
+dignity and beauty, and she went among the crowds, moving their
+hearts to sympathy with him.</p>
+<p>Alkino&ouml;s then addressed the assembled multitude: "Hear
+me, ye chiefs of the Ph&aelig;acians," he said. "This stranger
+has come to our land after many wanderings and adventures. And he
+asks me to send him back to his own country. Let us fit out a
+ship for him quickly and launch it, and give him fifty-two young
+men from among our best sailors, who shall get everything ready
+for the long journey.</p>
+<p>"While they are doing this the stranger shall come to my halls
+with the chiefs and princes, where we will make a great banquet.
+Summon also the bard, Demodokos, that he may enliven the festival
+with his harp and songs."</p>
+<p>Having spoken, Alkino&ouml;s rose and led his guest back to
+the palace, the princes following him. Fifty-two youths were soon
+chosen from among the best seamen, and they launched a ship
+speedily and went up to the royal palace.</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<center>
+<hr width="20%"></center>
+<br>
+<br>
+<a name="chap11" id="chap11"></a>
+<h3>CHAPTER XI</h3>
+<h4>THE BANQUET IN HONOR OF ODYSSEUS</h4>
+<br>
+<p>Alkino&ouml;s now ordered a sumptuous feast in honor of his
+guest. When the table was spread, the herald who had gone for
+Demodokos came in leading the bard, who was blind. The gods had
+deprived him of sight, but had bestowed upon him the gift of
+song. They gave him a seat on a silver throne, amid the guests,
+and hung his harp against a lofty pillar, close above his head,
+where he could easily reach it.</p>
+<p>When all had eaten and drunk as much as they desired,
+Demodokos took his lyre and began to sing about the heroes of
+Troy. It was a song whose fame had reached over the whole world,
+the story of a friendly strife between Achilles and Odysseus
+before Troy, in which Achilles held that Troy would fall by
+force, but Odysseus maintained that it would come to an end
+through the cunning of a few brave Greeks.</p>
+<p>All the guests enjoyed listening to the thrilling song, but
+Odysseus was deeply touched, and tears fell from his eyes. He
+brushed them away stealthily, so that no one should observe them,
+and drew a large purple veil over his face until the song was
+finished, when he put it away and took a goblet of wine, which he
+poured out on the ground as a libation to the gods.</p>
+<p>Again the minstrel took his harp and sang, and again Odysseus
+wept. Alkino&ouml;s noticed that the song of Demodokos moved
+Odysseus to tears, and thought it might be well to stay the music
+awhile and begin the games, that the stranger might witness the
+athletic skill of the Ph&aelig;acians. All the princes instantly
+arose and walked down to the market-place, the king leading and
+the people following.</p>
+<p>When the chiefs had taken their seats a great number of young
+men hastened forward to begin the games. Some of them darted over
+the plain in a foot-race, raising a cloud of dust. Others strove
+with all their might in wrestling-matches, while some threw the
+quoit or played at boxing and leaping. After they had enjoyed
+looking at the games, Laodamas, a son of Alkino&ouml;s, said to
+his friends: "Let us ask the stranger to take part in the games.
+His strong arms and legs and powerful neck show that he is no
+weakling. Nor has he lost his youthful vigor after all his
+hardships, although nothing tires a man so much as being tossed
+about on the sea."</p>
+<p>Then the friends of Laodamas advised him to challenge Odysseus
+to take part in the games; and this seemed right to the prince,
+so he said to him: "Father, I think thou must be skilful in these
+games. Let us see thee try them. We will not delay thee long. Thy
+ship is ready for thee on the sea, and the crew is there,
+waiting. But there is no greater glory or pleasure for a man than
+to excel in swiftness of foot and strength of muscle."</p>
+<p>Odysseus answered him: "Why dost thou urge me, O Laodamas? How
+can I take part in the games or find any pleasure in them after
+all that I have suffered? Here I sit, a suppliant, praying to be
+sent back to my wife and home." Then Euryalos scoffed at him,
+saying: "Thou art right, stranger, for thy countenance shows thou
+art anything but an athlete.</p>
+<p>"Methinks thou art the owner of some merchant-vessel. Thou art
+a trader, whose head is full of bargains. Such men can take heed
+of nothing except how to increase wealth."</p>
+<p>These mocking words vexed Odysseus, and he retorted: "My
+friend, thou dost not speak like a man of good mind. The gods do
+not bestow their gifts equally on all men. To thee they have
+given great beauty, but they have denied thee wit. Thy words
+carry no weight. Learn, then, that I am not unskilled in the
+games. When I was young and strong I was one of the best
+athletes. But even now, after all my shipwrecks and hardships, I
+will strive with thee, for thy words are offensive and challenge
+me to the proof."</p>
+<p>Having said this, Odysseus seized a much larger and heavier
+quoit than the Ph&aelig;acian prince could use, and swinging it
+in his powerful hand he hurled it forth. The stone whirred
+through the air and fell to the ground away beyond the marks of
+the other disks. Then Athena took the form of a Ph&aelig;acian
+and set a mark where the quoit fell, and exclaimed as she did so:
+"Stranger, even a blind man could easily find thy mark, for it is
+far beyond the others. Sit down in peace and do not fear that
+anybody else can throw so far." Odysseus was pleased when he
+heard these friendly words. With a light heart he said to the
+Ph&aelig;acian youths: "Reach my mark, if you can, young men, and
+I will send a stone farther yet. But if you cannot reach it, and
+prefer a match at boxing or wrestling or foot-race, come forth. I
+am ready to try any of the games with you. I can throw a spear
+farther than any of you can shoot an arrow. I fear nothing unless
+it may be the foot-race, for I have lost my strength with want of
+food and being tossed by the waves."</p>
+<p>He ended, and King Alkino&ouml;s stepped forward, for the
+young men were all silent. "Stranger," he said, "thou art our
+dearly loved guest, and no one can doubt thy bravery. We do not
+boast that we are fine boxers or wrestlers. We excel in the dance
+and are unsurpassed in sailing ships. Come, then, young men, show
+your skill in dancing, that our guest may tell his people when he
+reaches his home how much we outdo all others in that art. And
+let a herald hasten to the palace and bring the lyre of
+Demodokos, which has been left there."</p>
+<p>The young men arranged themselves in two rows on the polished
+floors and began the dance, while the minstrel, standing in their
+midst, played on the lyre and sang most sweetly. Odysseus looked
+on and greatly admired the swift and rhythmical movements of
+their feet. All danced very well; but two of the sons of the king
+came out and danced alone, for none of the others equalled them.
+One of them held a golden ball in his hand, and bending backward
+threw it so high that it seemed to touch the clouds. The other
+sprang up and caught it easily before it touched the ground.</p>
+<p>They both danced, going through intricate and rhythmical
+figures, while the other young men stood around in a circle and
+clapped their hands, keeping time. Then Odysseus said to
+Alkino&ouml;s: "Truly, no one excels the Ph&aelig;acian princes
+in dancing. I see the twinkling of their feet with
+amazement."</p>
+<p>These words pleased Alkino&ouml;s greatly, and he said to his
+people: "Listen, my chiefs, for our guest seems to be a wise man.
+It becomes us now to bestow upon him the gifts of hospitality. In
+this land there are twelve kings. I am the thirteenth. Let each
+one of us bring a fine cloak, and a tunic, and a talent of gold,
+that our guest may see them before he partakes of the evening
+banquet. And let Euryalos, who spoke such scoffing words to him,
+try to win back his friendship and bring a costly gift." All the
+chiefs approved the words of King Alkino&ouml;s, and each one
+sent a servant to his house to bring a valuable present.</p>
+<p>Euryalos cheerfully obeyed the king. He brought a brass sword
+with a silver hilt to Odysseus, and said: "My father, if I have
+uttered any offensive word to thee, may the winds scatter all
+remembrance of it. May the gods grant thee a speedy return to thy
+country, where thou shalt see thy wife and friends from whom thou
+hast so long been separated."</p>
+<p>Odysseus answered: "Hail to thee, also, my friend! May the
+gods give thee all that there is good, and may no need of this
+sword ever come to thee." Odysseus took the sword and threw it
+across his shoulders.</p>
+<p>The sun had set, and the servants carried the gifts to the
+royal palace, where the queen took care of them. King
+Alkino&ouml;s led the way to the palace, his guest at his side
+and the princes following. When they had taken their seats on
+high thrones, the king told his wife to lay the royal presents in
+a chest, adding a much richer cloak and tunic than anyone else
+had given as a gift from himself.</p>
+<p>Aret&egrave; did as her husband wished, and placed a beautiful
+cup of gold also in the chest, and led Odysseus up to look at the
+presents. Then she taught him how to lock the chest and unlock
+it, and her maids called him to a warm bath, after which he
+anointed himself with fragrant oil and put on fresh garments.</p>
+<p>While he was wending his way to the men who sat before their
+wine, he met Nausica&auml; in her goddess-like beauty, standing
+near a pillar. "Stranger, farewell," she said. "I wish thee joy
+and a safe return to thy native land. Do not forget that I was
+the first to befriend thee in the land of the
+Ph&aelig;acians."</p>
+<p>Odysseus answered: "May the gods be as sure to favor my return
+to my home as I shall be to make a prayer daily in thy behalf,
+fair maiden, who hath saved my life." Then Odysseus entered the
+great hall and took his place at the feast.</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<center>
+<hr width="20%"></center>
+<br>
+<br>
+<a name="chap12" id="chap12"></a>
+<h3>CHAPTER XII</h3>
+<h4>ODYSSEUS RELATES HIS ADVENTURES</h4>
+<br>
+<p>When they had all eaten and drunk to their hearts' content,
+the hero begged Demodokos to sing about the invention of the
+wooden horse with which Odysseus had artfully tricked the Trojans
+to their own destruction.</p>
+<p>The minstrel felt the inspiration of the song, and began where
+the Greeks threw firebrands into their own tents and sailed away
+from Troy, pretending that they had given up the war.</p>
+<p>He told how the Trojans wondered what to do with the huge
+wooden horse which the enemy had left in their city, whether to
+hew it to pieces and burn it, or to drag it to the edge of a high
+rock and throw it over, or whether to spare it as an act of
+reverence to the gods. This last was done, and in the night
+Odysseus and his men came out of the great wooden trap and set
+fire to the city while the men of Troy slept.</p>
+<p>As Demodokos sang, tears rolled down the cheeks of Odysseus.
+but no one noticed his weeping except the king, who said: "It is
+better to stop the song of Demodokos, as it does not delight us
+all. Ever since the bard began to sing, our guest has been
+weeping. He carries some great trouble in his heart. Let the song
+cease, and let us all make merry. Let no grief mar our banquet.
+And, honored stranger, tell us the name of thy father, and the
+city which is thy home. Our seamen shall take thee safely to
+thine own land, although there is a prophecy that one of our good
+ships shall be changed into a high rock, to stand forever in
+front of our city, if we show such courtesies to strangers.</p>
+<p>"Tell us truly who thou art and whither thou hast roamed, what
+tribes of men thou hast seen, and why thou dost weep when the
+minstrel sings of Troy. Didst thou lose a noble kinsman there, or
+a dear friend? For a friend is often dearer than a brother."
+Odysseus replied: "In truth, O king, it is a pleasant thing to
+listen to a bard like Demodokos, for his voice is as sweet as the
+voice of a god.</p>
+<p>"And I cannot think of anything more delightful than the joy
+of a contented people listening to a great poet and singer while
+seated at a feast in a royal hall. But I pine to be at home, and
+I will declare my name and tell the story of my sufferings.</p>
+<p>"I am the chieftain Odysseus, son of Laertes, and widely known
+to fame. I dwell in sunny Ithaca, whose high mountains are seen
+from afar, covered with rustling trees. Around it are many
+smaller islands, full of people. Ithaca has low shores on the
+east. It is a rugged island, but it is the sweetest land on
+earth, and has a noble race of mortals. When the Trojan war was
+at an end, I started for home with my twelve ships, but a
+contrary wind drove us to Ismaros, the city of the Kikonians.</p>
+<p>"We captured it and put the inhabitants to the sword. Then I
+exhorted my comrades to fly, but, like madmen, they remained on
+the sea-shore. Then they slaughtered a large number of sheep and
+oxen and made a feast. The Kikonians called on their strong
+neighbors to come and help them, and they came in swarms with
+their brazen spears. They fell upon our men and killed six of
+them from each ship, and drove the rest back to their boats.</p>
+<p>"Brisk handling of our oars soon carried us out into the sea,
+but Jove sent a hurricane that tore our sails and split our
+masts, so that our sailors drew them into the ships in fear. Two
+days and nights we lay helpless in our boats, worn out with fear
+and grief, but the third day the sun shone on us again, and we
+raised the masts and sails to take the breeze, hoping to reach
+our own land."</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<center>
+<hr width="20%"></center>
+<br>
+<br>
+<a name="chap13" id="chap13"></a>
+<h3>CHAPTER XIII</h3>
+<h4>THE LOTUS-EATERS AND THE CYCLOPS</h4>
+<br>
+<p>"We sailed onward in a westerly direction, heading for the
+Grecian shore, and thought our trials would soon be at an end.
+But in this we were disappointed, for when we were about to round
+the cape at the southern point of Greece, we met an evil wind
+which always blows there, and it drove us far to the east, beyond
+the island of Cythera.</p>
+<p>"Nine days and nine nights we were driven about on the sea by
+the violent storm, and on the tenth we reached the land of the
+Lotus-eaters. These men eat flowers that look like water-lilies,
+and they have no other food. We landed on the shore of the
+mainland, and my comrades took their evening meal close to the
+boats.</p>
+<p>"When our hunger was satisfied, I sent out two of the best men
+to explore the country about and find out what sort of people the
+Lotus-eaters were. I sent a herald with them, whom they might
+send back with the news.</p>
+<p>"They soon found themselves among the Lotus-eaters, who were
+gentle and friendly, and gave them the lotus plant to eat. This
+food is pleasant to the taste, but dangerous; for anyone who eats
+of it loses all desire to return to his own home. He forgets his
+cares and troubles, but also his friends.</p>
+<p>"As soon as my comrades had eaten of the lotus, they became
+attached to the Lotus-eaters, and desired to remain with them.
+They wept bitterly when I commanded them to return to the ships,
+and I was obliged to force them to go.</p>
+<p>"I bound them down to the benches in the ships, and the whole
+company went on board in haste lest they should never think of
+their homes again. Each man bent to his oars, and the waves were
+soon white with the beating of the ships against them as we
+sailed with all haste in the direction of our own land.</p>
+<p>"We sailed about on unknown seas and with sorrowing hearts
+until we came to the land of the Cyclops. They are a wild people
+who have no laws. They never plough the fields nor plant them,
+for everything grows of its own accord&mdash;wheat, and barley,
+and the vine. The grapes yield good wine. The Cyclops do not come
+together in a friendly way, but live in caves near the mountain
+tops, each one in his own den. They do not care much for one
+another, and each rules his wife and children as he likes.</p>
+<p>"There is a little woody island lying at the entrance to the
+land of the Cyclops, on which swarm numberless wild goats, never
+disturbed by human beings, for the Cyclops have no ships to take
+them over. This island is very fertile, but there are no sheep to
+eat the grass and no people to plough the fields. The goats are
+the only inhabitants. The island has a harbor which is safe, and
+the ships that enter it have no need of anchors or
+fastenings.</p>
+<p>"In the midst of the harbor there is a cliff, from which
+bubbles forth a spring of excellent water, and poplar-trees grow
+all around it. The soil is so rich it might bear all kinds of
+fruit, if there were anyone to plant them. There are beautiful
+meadows all along the coast, which are gay with yellow fruit and
+pink blossoms.</p>
+<p>"We were shaping our course toward this island, and a good
+breeze brought us there on a dark night. The moon did not shine
+and none of the crew saw the land until we were upon the shore.
+We lowered our sails and rested there until morning. When
+daylight appeared we beheld with wonder the island where the wild
+goats abounded. My comrades walked around, admiring the beauty of
+the place, while the nymphs, daughters of Zeus, roused the goats
+that they might give us milk. We took our bows and arrows from
+the ships immediately and, forming three hunting-parties, killed
+a great number of the nimble creatures. Each of my twelve ships
+received nine goats as its share, but mine received ten. The
+remainder of the day we passed in eating and drinking."</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<center>
+<hr width="20%"></center>
+<br>
+<br>
+<a name="chap14" id="chap14"></a>
+<h3>CHAPTER XIV</h3>
+<h4>THE CAVE OF THE CYCLOPS</h4>
+<br>
+<p>"The next day I started with twelve men, the crew of my own
+ship, to find out what kind of men inhabited the country opposite
+us, leaving all the other boats and their men on the island. When
+we sailed up to the coast of the mainland, we heard the voices of
+giants, and the bleating of their sheep and goats. And we saw a
+cave with a high roof, over whose entrance grew laurel shrubs,
+and many cattle, sheep, and goats were lying around at rest. We
+found an enclosure of rough stone in the form of a court, with
+tall pines and leafy oaks at the mouth of the cave.</p>
+<p>"The largest giant of all the race of Cyclops dwelt there and
+took care of his cattle all alone. Usually he spent his time
+prowling all by himself around the mountains. He had nothing to
+do with his neighbors, but led a solitary life, plotting wicked
+deeds. He looked more like a huge mountain top, with shaggy
+overhanging forests, towering above other mountains, than a human
+being.</p>
+<p>"We were soon inside the cave, but we did not find the owner
+at home. We had carried with us a wine-skin full of wine which a
+priest of Apollo had given us. The wine was very fragrant and so
+pleasant that no one who had once tasted it, could let it alone.
+We had taken along a basket of food also, for fear of meeting
+with men of great strength and no sense of the courtesy due to
+strangers.</p>
+<p>"As we looked around the cave we wondered at what we saw.
+There were baskets all about heaped with cheeses, and pens of
+lambs separated into three folds, the older in one pen, the
+younger in another, and the youngest in a third. And there were
+pails full of whey, and buckets of milk. My companions ate as
+much of the cheese as they liked, after which they begged to
+drive all the lambs and kids down to the ship.</p>
+<p>"But I would not allow this. It was my wish to stay there and
+see the cave-dweller and find out what kind of a man he was. I
+thought he would give me a handsome present, according to the
+laws of hospitality. It was cold in the cave, so we lit a fire
+and sat down to wait for the owner to arrive.</p>
+<p>"He came toward evening, carrying a load of wood on his back,
+which he threw down with such a crash that my men ran with terror
+into the corners of the cave. The giant drove all such sheep and
+goats as would give him milk into the cave, leaving the others in
+the outside court, and then closed up the entrance with a rock so
+large that twenty-four four-wheeled wagons could not have moved
+it. Having done this, he sat down and milked the sheep and goats
+and gave to each its young one.</p>
+<p>"Next, he curdled half of the milk and put the curd into woven
+baskets, but he kept the other half for his evening meal. When he
+had ended this work he lit a fire, and seeing the strangers he
+began to ask them questions, to find out who they were. His voice
+was deep and frightful, like the rumbling of a volcano, and our
+hearts trembled, but I found words to answer him: 'We are Greeks,
+and come from Troy. It was our intention to return home, but
+contrary winds have driven us on this shore.</p>
+<p>"'We belong to the army of Agamemnon, whose fame is very great
+because he has overcome a strong city and conquered many nations.
+But now we throw ourselves at thy feet and pray that thou wilt
+receive us as guests, or else give us the gifts that are due to
+strangers, lest the gods avenge us.'</p>
+<p>"Having said this, I stopped, but the Cyclops told us that we
+were fools to believe in the gods. 'The Cyclops,' he said, 'care
+nothing for the gods. We are better than they are. If I spare
+thee it will be of my own free will, and not for fear of the
+gods. But where are thy ships? Are they near here or far off?'
+This he said hoping to deceive us, but I saw through his trick,
+and replied: 'The storm has thrown our ships upon the cliffs and
+broken them to pieces, and we had to swim for our lives.'</p>
+<p>"The cruel monster did not answer me again, but he seized two
+of my companions and dashed them to the ground with such force
+that they died on the spot. He devoured them as a lion devours
+his prey. He left nothing of them, neither bones nor flesh nor
+hair. We wept aloud and prayed to Zeus with our hearts full of
+despair."</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<center>
+<hr width="20%"></center>
+<br>
+<br>
+<a name="chap15" id="chap15"></a>
+<h3>CHAPTER XV</h3>
+<h4>THE BLINDING OF THE CYCLOPS</h4>
+<br>
+<p>"When the monster had filled himself with food, he stretched
+out on the floor of the cave to sleep. Then the thought came to
+me to thrust a sword into his heart. But this was not a wise
+course to take, because we should never have been able to remove
+the stone from the entrance to the cave.</p>
+<p>"We passed the night in mourning and lamentations. As soon as
+daylight appeared, the Cyclops woke up and lit a fire and milked
+his sheep again. Then he seized two more of my companions and
+devoured them. When his morning meal was done he rolled the stone
+back from the door and drove his beasts out, not forgetting to
+secure the entrance. We could hear his noisy shouts afar off as
+he led his flocks over the grassy heights, and we began to make
+plans to destroy him.</p>
+<p>"We found a great club of green olive-wood in the cave; one
+that the Cyclops had cut for his own use. It was as large as the
+mast of a ship, and he had laid it away to dry. I cut off a
+fathom's length from this club and handed the piece to my
+companions, who smoothed off its sides and sharpened it at one
+end. This being done, I put the sharp end of it into the fire.
+The stick became very hard, and then I hid the weapon under a
+heap of litter which was piled up in the cave. We cast lots to
+see who should assist me to put out the eye of the Cyclops when
+he was asleep.</p>
+<p>"When evening came the Cyclops returned to the cave with his
+fat sheep and kids. He seemed to suspect that there was mischief
+afoot, for he did not leave any of them outside. After milking
+the ewes and goats he again seized two of my companions and made
+his supper of them. But I filled a large drinking-vessel with the
+wine from our wine-skin and stepped boldly out and said to him:
+'Here is a cup of wine which I brought, hoping that thou wouldst
+spare my life, O Cyclops, for thy wrath is boundless.' He took
+the cup and drank. The wine delighted him greatly, and he handed
+me the cup after emptying it and said: 'Give me another draught
+and tell me thy name. I will give thee a generous gift, such as
+becomes a host. We, too, have wine, but not such as yours. That
+tastes like nectar and ambrosia.'</p>
+<p>"Three times I filled the cup and brought it to him, and three
+times the Cyclops drank it like a madman. When the wine had
+overpowered him, I said to him: 'Cyclops, thou dost wish to know
+my name, and I will tell it, but thou must give me the present
+thou hast promised. My name is Nobody. My father and mother gave
+me this name and my friends all call me by it.' 'Then,' said the
+Cyclops, 'I shall eat Nobody last of all. This is my
+present.'</p>
+<p>"After these words he fell asleep and, being very drunk, he
+began to spew out the wine and flesh he had taken. I took the
+piece of olive-wood which my men had sharpened and put the point
+of it into the fire and held it there until it was a glowing
+coal. My comrades stood near me and I encouraged them with brave
+words. We thrust the burning stick into the Cyclops' eye and put
+it out. He howled with pain, and, stung to madness, he seized the
+stick and flung it across the cave.</p>
+<p>"He called to the other Cyclops, who lived in divers caves on
+the surrounding mountains, while we hid ourselves in fear in the
+most remote corners of the cave. The giants heard him and came
+running to help him, but they could not get into the cave. They
+stood near the stone, close to the door, and called out: 'What
+ails thee, Polyphemus? Is anyone trying to kill thee?' 'Woe is
+me!' cried Polyphemus, 'Nobody is trying to kill me.' 'Then why
+dost thou shout and cry for help?' said they. 'If nobody hurts
+thee, then thou art not hurt.'</p>
+<p>"With these words they went off, and we rejoiced greatly that
+my trick had deceived them."</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<center>
+<hr width="20%"></center>
+<br>
+<br>
+<a name="chap16" id="chap16"></a>
+<h3>CHAPTER XVI</h3>
+<h4>ODYSSEUS AND HIS COMPANIONS LEAVE THE LAND OF THE
+CYCLOPS</h4>
+<br>
+<p>"Polyphemus, groaning with pain, tried to feel his way with
+his hands to the mouth of the cavern. Having succeeded in this,
+he rolled back the stone and sat down at the entrance and
+stretched out his hands in order to catch us if we should happen
+to try to get out among the sheep.</p>
+<p>"But we were not so foolish as to be caught in this way. There
+were in the cave a number of stout and woolly rams. Of these I
+put three abreast and tied them together with twigs that happened
+to be in the cave. Under each middle ram I tied one of my
+companions. The two sheep, one on each side of him, hid the man
+completely. For myself I selected the stoutest ram of the flock,
+and, seizing his long shaggy wool with my hands, held fast to him
+with my knees and arms.</p>
+<p>"The sun rose and the animals began to hasten out to the
+pastures. The Cyclops, though nearly exhausted with pain, passed
+his hands over the backs of the sheep to find out whether any of
+us were trying to ride out of the cave. He did not find out our
+trick, and my companions all escaped safely. Last of all, the ram
+that carried me came to the door, because I was so heavy that he
+could hardly walk with me hanging to him.</p>
+<p>"Polyphemus felt of his back and recognized him at once as his
+favorite ram, and said: 'Dearest of all my sheep, why dost thou
+go last? Commonly thou wert the first of the flock to hasten to
+the rich pasture and the cool spring, just as thou wert the first
+in the evening to return to thy manger. But to-day thou art last
+of all. Dost thou grieve because thy master hath lost his eye,
+which Nobody has put out? But wait a little. He shall not escape
+death. Couldst thou only speak, my ram, thou wouldst tell me at
+once where the scoundrel is; then thou shouldst see how I would
+dash him against the rocks.'</p>
+<p>"Speaking such words as these, he let the ram go. When we were
+safely out of the cave, we gladly took to our feet and drove the
+fat sheep down to our boat with all haste. Our friends received
+us with tears of joy, for they thought we had surely perished. I
+made signs to them not to weep aloud, and to hurry the sheep on
+board the ship. They did this with all haste, and each man took
+his place at the oars.</p>
+<p>"When we were beyond the reach of the Cyclops, I called out to
+tease him, 'Ha! Cyclops, Cyclops, thou hast not been entertaining
+a coward. Zeus and the other gods have avenged the brave men whom
+thou didst so cruelly destroy.'</p>
+<p>"The Cyclops heard my words and grew furious. He seized a
+large rock and threw it with all his might toward the place where
+he had heard my voice.</p>
+<p>"The rock fell in front of my ship, and the waves which it
+raised carried us back on shore. I seized a large pole and shoved
+the boat back into the water, commanding my men to ply their oars
+vigorously, that we might escape destruction. My companions
+begged me not to excite the dangerous monster further; but when
+we were a long way out I shouted to him: 'Cyclops, if ever
+anybody asks thee who put out thine eye, tell him it was
+Odysseus, the son of Laertes, conqueror of Troy.'</p>
+<p>"When Polyphemus heard these words he gave a deep groan, and
+said to me: 'Truly did the wise seer, Telemos, foretell that I
+was to be blinded by Odysseus. But I thought there would come a
+large and powerful man, not such an insignificant little fellow
+who would cheat me with wine. Come back, Odysseus, and let me
+bestow upon you the gifts which are due to strangers. I will pray
+to my father, Poseidon, to give thee a safe and speedy return to
+thy native land. He can restore my eye whenever he will, so I
+cherish no anger against thee.'</p>
+<p>"I knew his deceit, however, and replied: 'I would rather take
+thy life, and send thee down to the dark halls of the dead, where
+thy father could never restore thy sight.'</p>
+<p>"As soon as Polyphemus heard this, he raised his hands to
+heaven and prayed to Poseidon, 'My father,' he said, 'hear me, if
+in truth I am thy son. Grant me this prayer. May Odysseus never
+return to his own country, or, if it be thy will that he reach
+home and friends again, let his return be late and sorrowful. May
+his comrades all be lost, and may he go back in a borrowed ship,
+and find new troubles waiting for him in his house.'</p>
+<p>"Poseidon was moved to wrath against me by this prayer, and
+determined to take vengeance on me. The Cyclops seized another
+stone, much larger than the last, and swinging it round, threw it
+at us with tremendous strength. It fell close to the ship, but
+this time it drove the boat out into the sea and in the direction
+of the island where we first landed.</p>
+<p>"When we reached the island we found the friends we had left
+there waiting anxiously for our return. My men drew their boat up
+on to the smooth sand and stepped upon the beach, taking the
+sheep along with them. Each man took an equal share, but they
+gave me the ram which had saved my life. We took him out upon the
+beach and offered him up as a sacrifice to Zeus.</p>
+<p>"But sacrifices were vain, for Zeus had more evil for us in
+his mind. We spent the rest of the day on the island, eating and
+drinking, and when the sun went down we camped on the shore for
+the night. In the morning I called my men to climb the decks and
+cut the ropes that kept us fastened to the shore. With all speed
+they went aboard and took their oars in hand and set sail for
+home, glad to escape, but sorrowing for our lost companions."</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<center>
+<hr width="20%"></center>
+<br>
+<br>
+<a name="chap17" id="chap17"></a>
+<h3>CHAPTER XVII</h3>
+<h4>THE ADVENTURES OF ODYSSEUS ON THE ISLAND OF &AElig;OLUS</h4>
+<br>
+<p>"We sailed about on unknown seas for many days, when we
+reached the island where &AElig;olus made his abode. This island
+was surrounded by smooth rocks and guarded by a wall of shining
+brass.</p>
+<p>"&AElig;olus had twelve children, six sons and six daughters,
+and they banqueted on an endless variety of meats from day to day
+all the year round. &AElig;olus was a kindly, genial god; he was
+master of the winds, and one could hear the music of sweet pipes
+in his halls all day, and the air was fresh and fragrant
+there.</p>
+<p>"&AElig;olus welcomed us hospitably and kept us with him a
+whole month. He inquired of the fate of all our companions in the
+war with Troy, and we stated what had happened to them. Then we
+prayed him to send us home, and the god very kindly gave us a
+sack made of skin in which he had tied up all the contrary winds,
+leaving only the west wind free to carry us safely home.</p>
+<p>"I took the great bag of winds and bound it fast to the main
+mast of the ship with a silver chain, so that no rude wind could
+escape and blow us out of our way. We sailed along nine days and
+nine nights, blown by the friendly breeze from the west, and on
+the tenth we saw in the distance the mountain tops of Ithaca and
+the fires along the shore.</p>
+<p>"And now I was overcome by a heavy sleep, for I had been
+guiding the ship, not daring to trust it to the hand of any of
+the crew. While I lay unconscious of what was going on, my
+companions talked among themselves and said they believed that
+the bag which &AElig;olus had given me contained vast amounts of
+gold and silver. And they spoke with great jealousy of the prizes
+which I had received wherever we had landed, while they went
+empty-handed.</p>
+<p>"The more they talked to one another the more jealous and
+angry they grew. They untied the sack and the winds rushed out,
+much to their astonishment, and seized the ship, driving it round
+and round in a furious storm. I started out of my sleep suddenly
+and found the bag open I had so carefully guarded and my
+companions weeping bitterly.</p>
+<p>"For a moment I had a mind to throw myself into the sea and
+make an end of my troubles forever. But the thought came to me
+that such an action would not be noble, so I hid my head in my
+mantle and lay down in the bottom of the ship while the violent
+winds and towering waves drove us back to the island we had left.
+We landed there again, and, having partaken of some food and
+wine, I sought the halls of &AElig;olus.</p>
+<p>"I found the king and his wife and children at table taking
+their evening meal. When &AElig;olus saw me he was amazed, and
+asked me what had happened to me. I told him about the senseless
+action of my companions, and begged him to assist me once more.
+But with a terrible voice he replied: 'Begone as fast as thou
+canst out of my island. I will not befriend a man who is hated of
+the gods.' In this unkind way he sent me off, and we sadly
+entered our ships and made for the open sea, trusting to the
+mercy of the winds."</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<center>
+<hr width="20%"></center>
+<br>
+<br>
+<a name="chap18" id="chap18"></a>
+<h3>CHAPTER XVIII</h3>
+<h4>ODYSSEUS AT THE HOME OF CIRC&Egrave;</h4>
+<br>
+<p>"For six days and six nights we sailed without interruption,
+but on the seventh day we reached the city of the
+L&aelig;strygonians. There the pastures are so rich in grass that
+the fields, which are grazed by one flock of sheep during the
+day, yield abundant food for another flock by night. The
+inhabitants were not only inhospitable, but they received us with
+a shower of stones, which they hurled at us and at our galleys.
+They broke our ships and killed my companions, spearing them like
+fish. Then they carried them ashore to be devoured. With the
+greatest difficulty I succeeded in saving one ship and a few
+companions from the hands of these giants, and I fled with them
+out to the high sea.</p>
+<p>"Sadly we continued our course until we reached an island,
+where the goddess Circ&egrave;, a daughter of the Sun and Ocean,
+lived. We landed silently, and gave two days and nights to rest,
+for we were worn out with toil and grief. On the third day I
+climbed to the top of a high hill and looked over the island.
+Down below I saw a marble palace, surrounded by a thick forest.
+There was smoke rising from the grounds, so I resolved to return
+to my men and send out some of them to look about and
+explore.</p>
+<p>"A large stag ran down into my path, on his way to a river to
+drink, and I thrust my spear through him and flung him across my
+neck and took him to the ship. I threw him at the feet of my men,
+who were astonished at his size. They prepared a banquet at once,
+and we feasted upon the meat.</p>
+<p>"That night we slept on the shore again, and in the morning I
+told them that I had seen a palace standing in a thick wood, and
+that I wanted to send several men there to try to get food. When
+my companions thought of all their comrades who had been slain
+they wept aloud. But their tears were useless. I divided them
+into two equal bands, and we cast lots to see which party should
+make the adventure.</p>
+<p>"The lot fell to Eurylochos and his band of men. They started
+forth, and soon came to a beautiful valley, in which was the
+splendid house of Circ&egrave;, which was built of well-hewn
+stone. There were beasts of prey, lions and wolves, around it.
+The animals were tame; they wagged their tails and fawned like
+dogs, but the men were afraid of them. Circ&egrave; was weaving
+in the palace and singing a beautiful song. She had bright, sunny
+hair and a sweet voice. The men heard her as she went back and
+forth weaving, and they called aloud. She came to the door and
+threw it wide open and bade them enter.</p>
+<p>"Eurylochos alone did not go in, for he feared that some evil
+would come of it. The others followed her, and Circ&egrave;
+seated them on thrones and gave them food and wine, but in the
+wine she had secretly infused a magic juice which made them
+forget home and friends and all desire to see their native
+land.</p>
+<p>"When they had eaten and drunk to their hearts' content, she
+waved her wand over them, and at once the poor wretches were
+changed into grunting pigs, which she shut up in pigsties and
+threw acorns and other food fit for swine before them. Although
+thus transformed and covered with bristles, they still retained
+the human mind.</p>
+<p>"Eurylochos stayed a long time outside awaiting the return of
+his companions. But as they tarried so long, he hastened back to
+the ship to tell the news. Thereupon I quickly hung my sword over
+my shoulder and, taking my bow and arrows, hurried off alone, and
+soon found myself not far from Circ&egrave;'s palace."</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<center>
+<hr width="20%"></center>
+<br>
+<br>
+<a name="chap19" id="chap19"></a>
+<h3>CHAPTER XIX</h3>
+<h4>CIRC&Egrave; INSTRUCTS ODYSSEUS CONCERNING HIS DESCENT TO
+HADES</h4>
+<br>
+<p>"As I lingered in that dangerous valley there appeared to me a
+youth whom I knew at once to be Hermes, the messenger of the
+gods. He gently took hold of my hand and, looking compassionately
+on me, said: 'Thou most unhappy man! Why art thou roaming alone
+in these wild parts? Or art thou bound on the errand of
+delivering thy friends who have all been changed by Circ&egrave;
+into swine? Much do I fear that thou mayest meet with the same
+fate. Listen to my words and heed them well if thou wouldst
+destroy the treacherous schemes of Circ&egrave;.</p>
+<p>"'Take this little flower. Its name is Moly among the gods,
+and no wicked sorcery can hurt the man who treasures it
+carefully. Its root is black. Its blossom is as white as milk,
+and it is hard for men to tear it from the ground. Take this herb
+and go fearlessly into the dwelling of the sorceress; it will
+guard thee against all mishap. She will bring thee a bowl of wine
+mingled with the juice of enchantment, but do not fear to eat or
+drink anything she may offer thee, and when she touches thy head
+with her magic wand, then rush upon her quickly with drawn sword
+as though about to slay her. She will crouch in fear and entreat
+thee with soft words to spare her. But do not give way to her
+until she has pledged herself by the great oath of the gods to do
+thee no harm.'</p>
+<p>"When Hermes had spoken thus he left me, to return to high
+Olympos, and I walked to the house of Circ&egrave; with a braver
+heart. As I came near the palace I called out to the goddess with
+a loud voice, and she threw open the doors for me to enter. She
+bade me sit down on a beautiful throne and placed a golden
+foot-stool under my feet. Then she gave me the dangerous cup and
+I drank it off, but her charm did not work.</p>
+<p>"Scarcely had I drained the cup when the goddess struck me
+with her wand and said: 'Off with you! Go to the pigsty, where
+friends await thy coming!' In a twinkling I had my sword in hand
+and rushed upon her as if to kill her. Circ&egrave; shrieked with
+fear and fell on her knees to implore my mercy. 'Who art thou and
+whence dost thou come?' said Circ&egrave;. 'Thou art the first
+man over whom my magic wine has had no power. Art thou really
+that Odysseus of whom Hermes told me that he was to come here
+after many wanderings? But put up thy sword and cease to be angry
+with me and let us trust each other.'</p>
+<p>"I answered her: 'O, goddess, how can I have faith in thy
+words, since thou hast changed my companions into swine and dost
+plot the same fate for me? Swear me the great oath that thou wilt
+not harm me, and I shall trust thy words.'</p>
+<p>"Circ&egrave; at once took the great oath, that she would
+never again try to do me any harm, and she ordered her servants
+to spread a feast before me. But I had no desire to eat. I sat
+down in silence, my mind full of grief and doubt.</p>
+<p>"When Circ&egrave; saw that I did not touch the food she said:
+'Why art thou so quiet and speechless? And why dost thou not
+taste the food and wine? I have pledged myself by the great oath
+to do thee no harm!' But I answered: 'What man with a loyal
+heart, O goddess, could eat and drink with any pleasure while his
+comrades are kept in bondage and degradation? If thou art really
+kind and wouldst have me enjoy this bounteous feast, O let me see
+my dear companions free once more!'</p>
+<p>"The goddess took her wand and went to the pen and drove out
+the swine. She then anointed them with a magic ointment, and
+their bristles fell off and they stood up and were men again.
+They knew me, and each one seized my hand, shedding tears of joy.
+Then I sent for the rest of my men at the ship, who eagerly came
+up, and together we entered the halls of Circ&egrave;, all of us
+weeping with joy.</p>
+<p>"Circ&egrave;'s heart was softened also, and she said to me:
+'Son of Laertes, noble Odysseus, do not weep and grieve any
+longer. I know what hardships thou hast endured on land and sea.
+Take courage, for thy sufferings will soon be at an end. Go down
+to the sea and hide thy boat near the shore and come back to my
+halls, thou and all thy men, where I will make it a happy home
+for all until thou art rested and ready to sail again for thy
+native land.'</p>
+<p>"We stayed a whole year on the island of Circ&egrave;,
+feasting and enjoying ourselves, and fully recovered our
+strength. The desire of reaching my beloved Ithaca grew stronger
+within me day by day, and at last I begged Circ&egrave; to allow
+us to depart. 'I am not willing, O son of Laertes,' Circ&egrave;
+answered, 'that thou shouldst remain here against thy wish, but
+it is necessary that thou shouldst, before departing from my
+island, descend into Hades, to the palace of Pluto and
+Persephone, to consult the spirit of the Theban seer, Tiresias,
+on whom Persephone has bestowed the priceless gift of preserving
+his memory even in Hades, whereas all the other souls are moving
+about as empty shadows.'</p>
+<p>"Hearing this, I grew desperate and no longer had any desire
+to live or see the light of day. I said to the goddess: 'Who will
+show me the way to Hades? for no living mortal has ever gone
+there before.' She replied: 'Do not worry about a guide,
+Odysseus, for there will be no need of one. Launch thy boat,
+unfurl the sails, and quietly sit down. The north wind will waft
+thee to the shore of Hades. There flows the river Styx, black and
+terrible. It flows between the poplars and willows in the groves
+of Persephone, and meets the broad waters of Okeanos. Sail up its
+dark stream until thou dost reach the rock where its two branches
+meet and swirl and roar. There leave thy boat and dig a ditch in
+the ground, a foot deep and a foot wide, in which thou shalt pour
+honey, milk, wine, and water as an offering to the dead.</p>
+<p>"'At the same time pray to the gods of Hades, and promise the
+shades of the dead that after thou hast arrived in Ithaca thou
+wilt sacrifice to them a whole heifer, the best of thy flock, and
+to Tiresias especially a black ram. Then take two sheep, a male
+and a female, kill them, and burn them as a sacrifice to the
+nations of the dead.</p>
+<p>"'At once there will arrive the souls of the departed. They
+will come by thousands, anxious to drink of the blood, that they
+may have their minds again. But draw thy sword and hold them back
+until the spirit of Tiresias arrives. He will tell thee how to
+get back to thy native land.'</p>
+<p>"As Circ&egrave; said this the daylight appeared, and I woke
+my companions and told them to make ready to go with me. We
+started at once for our ship, and got everything in readiness to
+leave. I told them that before setting out for our own country we
+had, by the advice of Circ&egrave;, to go down to Hades in order
+to consult the seer Tiresias about our journey. When they heard
+this they sat down, and wept, and began to tear the hair from
+their heads.</p>
+<p>"Circ&egrave; meantime came up by stealth, and put two sheep
+into the ship, and we sailed sadly away."</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<center>
+<hr width="20%"></center>
+<br>
+<br>
+<a name="chap20" id="chap20"></a>
+<h3>CHAPTER XX</h3>
+<h4>THE ADVENTURES OF ODYSSEUS IN HADES</h4>
+<br>
+<p>"With a heavy heart we sailed from Circ&egrave;'s island bound
+for the gloomy Hades. As the wind was favorable, we soon reached
+the place of which the goddess had told us. There we left the
+ship and did those things which Circ&egrave; had counselled us to
+do. As soon as the dark blood of the sheep began to flow into the
+trench countless souls came flocking from Hades and begged to
+taste of the blood, that their mortal minds might be restored to
+them.</p>
+<p>"Young wives and girls, old men and young warriors who had
+fallen in battle, airy forms, ghosts of all kinds of people,
+flitted like bats around me in that dark place with fearful
+cries, and I turned pale with fear. I drew my sword and waved
+them back until I should question the soul of Tiresias.</p>
+<p>"But first came the soul of Elpenor, one of my companions who
+had gone with me to the palace of Circ&egrave;. We had left him
+dead in the halls of the goddess, since we had no time to bury
+him. Now, when I saw him a great pity stirred my heart, and I
+shed tears and said to him: 'Elpenor, how didst thou come into
+these dread regions of darkness? Thou hast come more quickly on
+foot than I in my quick ship.'</p>
+<p>"The phantom knew me, for, being as yet unburied, he was not
+one of the shades, and had not lost his memory or voice, nor did
+he need to drink of the blood. He moaned and replied: 'Noble
+Odysseus, it was an evil fate which the gods had decreed for me.
+I drank too much wine and that caused my death. I lay down to
+sleep on the roof of Circ&egrave;'s palace and could not remember
+the way to the stairs when thou didst call us to the ships. In my
+haste I fell from the roof and broke my neck, and my soul came
+down to Hades.</p>
+<p>"'I pray thee now by all those whom thou dost love&mdash;thy
+wife, thy father, and thy son&mdash;that thou leave not my body
+unburied in the palace halls, lest I bring on thee the anger of
+the gods. But on thy return to Circ&egrave;'s isle burn my body,
+together with my armor, and pile up a mound of earth over my
+ashes. Plant my oar upon my tomb&mdash;the oar with which I used
+to row while I was living.'</p>
+<p>"I made the promise, but at this moment the soul of my mother,
+whom I had left hale and strong among the living when I went to
+the war, approached and tried to get at the trench. I wept to see
+her, but with a heavy heart I forbade her coming nearer until I
+had spoken with Tiresias. At this moment troops of souls came
+flocking out of Hades, and from the countless throng the Theban
+seer came leaning on a golden staff, and he ordered me to lay
+aside my sword and permit him to drink of the blood.</p>
+<p>"When he had drunk, he spoke to me and said: 'Odysseus, man of
+many woes, why dost thou leave the light of the sun and come down
+among the dead? Doubtless thy heart's desire is to return safely
+home. But much suffering is in store for thee. Poseidon will not
+permit it, because thou hast blinded his son, Polyphemus. Still,
+thou mayest overcome all difficulties and see Ithaca at last, if
+thou dost not harm the cattle and fat sheep of the Sun on the
+island of Trinacria.</p>
+<p>"'But if thou dost kill them and eat of their flesh, I warn
+thee that nothing will save thy comrades or thy ships. Even then
+thou mayest be saved, but it will be on a strange ship, alone,
+and after dreadful sufferings. And at home thou wilt find other
+misfortunes awaiting thee.</p>
+<p>"'There will be a mob of lawless men rioting in thy house,
+squandering thy riches, and trying to get thy wife to marry one
+of them. Thou shalt kill these violent men in thy halls by craft
+or in open fight. After that thou shalt reach a good and
+prosperous old age, and find a peaceful death far away from the
+sea. All that I tell thee shall surely happen.'"</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<center>
+<hr width="20%"></center>
+<br>
+<br>
+<a name="chap21" id="chap21"></a>
+<h3>CHAPTER XXI</h3>
+<h4>ODYSSEUS CONVERSES WITH HIS MOTHER AND AGAMEMNON</h4>
+<br>
+<p>"When Tiresias had gone, my mother came back to the dark
+trench and drank of the blood. She knew me at once and cried out:
+'Oh, my child, how didst thou ever come down to this gloomy place
+alive? Art thou on thy way home from Troy? And hast thou not seen
+Ithaca yet, nor thy wife and child?'</p>
+<p>"I answered her: 'Dear mother, I was compelled to come down
+here in order to consult the soul of the prophet Tiresias about
+my return; for I have not yet touched foot to Grecian soil. I
+have been driven about on strange seas from year to year, and
+have suffered misfortune after misfortune. Oh, tell me, my
+mother, how didst thou die? Did some lingering disease waste thy
+life, or didst thou meet a sudden, painless death?</p>
+<p>"'Tell me of my father and of my son. Do they still hold rule
+over Ithaca? Or has someone snatched it away from them, thinking
+I was never to return? How fares my wife, Penelope? Is she still
+faithful to the husband of her youth, or has she married
+another?'</p>
+<p>"To all this my mother answered: 'My son, Penelope is in the
+home where thou didst leave her, and she weeps for thee day and
+night. Nobody has usurped thy kingdom, and Telemachos has charge
+of thy royal estates. But thy father dwells on thy farm, and
+shares the life of the servants. He seldom goes down to the city.
+The grief he feels for loss of thee has made him old, and will
+hasten his death, as it caused mine, for I could not live without
+thee.'</p>
+<p>"So spake my mother, and I longed to clasp her to my heart.
+Three times I threw my arms around her, and three times she
+passed through them like a shadow. Then I cried out in sorrow:
+'Oh, my dear mother! why can I not clasp thee to my heart and
+hold thee in my arms, that we may lose for a while our sense of
+loneliness and misery?'</p>
+<p>"My mother spoke and said: 'It is the lot of all our race when
+they are dead. When life departs we have no bones and flesh, but
+the soul flies off and flits about from one place to another.
+Hasten back to the pleasant daylight, and when thou dost reach
+home tell thy wife what I have said.'</p>
+<p>"When my mother had gone, I saw the soul of Agamemnon
+approaching, together with the shades of those of his companions
+who had perished with him. The moment he had drunk of the blood
+he knew me and raised a loud wail. He stretched out his hands to
+me, and I tried to seize them, but I clutched only the empty
+air.</p>
+<p>"Then I began to weep, too, and said to him: 'Famous son of
+Atreus, King Agamemnon, tell me how thou didst die. Did Poseidon
+wreck thee on the sea in a terrible storm, or didst thou fall in
+war, fighting on the land?'</p>
+<p>"Whereupon the king told me the dire story of his home-coming
+and his death at traitors' hands. 'When I trod my native soil
+again after a long absence,' he said, 'I was overcome with joy at
+the thought of seeing my wife and children once more. But I was
+slain in my own home, and my wife did not even close my eyes as
+my soul came on its way to these dark realms.'</p>
+<p>"I answered: 'Alas! how the gods must hate the family of
+Atreus on account of the unfaithfulness of its women!'</p>
+<p>"Agamemnon replied: 'Oh, son of Laertes, thou art a fortunate
+man, for thou hast a faithful wife. Penelope is wise and
+virtuous. I remember, when we were ready to start for Troy she
+was a young wife with a little babe in her arms, which she
+pressed to her bosom. He must be a man now. Thou art a happy
+father. Thou wilt see thy son at home in Ithaca.</p>
+<p>"'No such good fortune can ever come to me. My wife did not
+even let me see my son before she slew me. Tell me about him, I
+beseech thee, how he is. Does he still live in Sparta?'</p>
+<p>"'Son of Atreus,' I said, 'do not ask me where thy son is. I
+cannot tell whether he is alive or not, and this is no time for
+idle conjectures;' and we wept as I spoke."</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<center>
+<hr width="20%"></center>
+<br>
+<br>
+<a name="chap22" id="chap22"></a>
+<h3>CHAPTER XXII</h3>
+<h4>CONVERSATION WITH ACHILLES AND OTHER HEROES</h4>
+<br>
+<p>"While we were conversing thus, the shades of Achilles and
+Patroklos came near. The soul of Achilles recognized me, and he
+said: 'Odysseus, son of Laertes, how darest thou descend into the
+gloomy habitation of the dead? This is the greatest labor thou
+hast undertaken.'</p>
+<p>"I answered: 'Godlike Achilles, I came here to consult the
+seer Tiresias about my return to my own country, for I have never
+yet reached Grecian soil, but have wandered about suffering great
+misfortunes. No one is happier than thou art, O Achilles. When
+thou wert alive all men honored thee as if thou wert a god, and
+now thou art a king and rulest over the dead.'</p>
+<p>"Then he replied: 'Do not try to console me, Odysseus. I would
+rather be the slave of a poor man, and in the light of the sun,
+than to be in Hades and rule over all the dead. But tell me,
+Odysseus, how fares my noble son? Does he fight in the wars, and
+is he in the front ranks? And Peleus, my aged father, tell me of
+him. Is he still king of the Myrmidons? Or do they hold him in
+contempt, now that he is old, and I am not there to uphold
+him?'</p>
+<p>"I answered him: 'I know nothing about thy aged father, O
+Achilles, but I have many things to tell thee about thy son. I
+brought him from Skyros, myself, in a ship to Troy, and placed
+him in the Greek army. There he surpassed everyone except Nestor
+and myself in the wisdom of his advice, and when we went forth to
+battle he fought among the foremost, slaying many illustrious
+foes.</p>
+<p>"'Above all, his powers shone forth when we were hidden in the
+wooden horse. All the other leaders of the Greeks gave signs of
+fear. They grew white and shed tears; but his face never turned
+pale, and no tear came into his eyes. He called on me to leave
+the horse and rush upon the foe, and he smote the Trojans,
+carrying death and destruction among them. When we finally
+subdued the city, thy son took rich booty and safely reached his
+own country.'</p>
+<p>"As soon as Achilles heard this news he rejoiced. He strode
+proudly off over the field of Elysian asphodels, well pleased
+that he had left such a mighty son on earth.</p>
+<p>"After Achilles had departed, many other souls came and talked
+with me. Only the soul of Ajax kept aloof, still angry over a
+victory which I gained near the ships when I took the weapons of
+Achilles as my share of the booty. Little did that victory and
+the arms please me, since they caused the grave to close over
+such a hero as Ajax.</p>
+<p>"I spoke to his soul in gentle words: 'Ajax, son of Telamon,
+did not even death appease the anger against me which thou didst
+feel on account of my receiving the arms that brought such a
+calamity upon the Greeks? For thou wast our tower of strength,
+and the weapons proved fatal to thee. Come nearer and speak to
+me, for I bewail thy death.' I spoke soothingly yet Ajax gave no
+answer. His spirit vanished away among the other spirits.</p>
+<p>"Then I beheld Minos, the lawgiver of Crete, who held a golden
+sceptre in his hand and judged the dead. He had under him the
+great wrong-doers of one part of Hades. With him I saw Tantalos,
+who stood in a pool of water, suffering at the same time a
+painful thirst. As often as he tried to put his lips to the water
+it sank down away from him so that he could not reach it.</p>
+<p>"I saw Sisyphos, also, who suffered great punishment, for he
+rolled a large rock uphill with both hands, straining every
+muscle of his body to the utmost to move it. No sooner had he
+pushed it to the top of the hill than it rolled back with
+deafening noise to the bottom of the valley. Again the
+unfortunate man toiled to move it upward, the sweat covering his
+body and clouds of dust hovering over his head.</p>
+<p>"Then I saw the shade of Herakles, but the hero himself sits
+among the gods on Mount Olympos. And there came myriads of souls,
+making a terrible noise, which filled me with dread, lest I might
+look upon the Gorgon, and I hastened back to the ship. I ordered
+the crew to go on board, and they took their oars and rowed until
+we reached the open sea, where favorable winds caught by the
+sails wafted us back to Circ&egrave;'s isle."</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<center>
+<hr width="20%"></center>
+<br>
+<br>
+<a name="chap23" id="chap23"></a>
+<h3>CHAPTER XXIII</h3>
+<h4>THE RETURN OF ODYSSEUS TO THE ISLAND OF CIRC&Egrave;</h4>
+<br>
+<p>"When we reached Circ&egrave;'s isle, we dragged our vessel up
+on to the beach, and lay down to sleep on the shore. At break of
+day I sent my comrades forth to bring the body of Elpenor from
+the palace. We took it out to a rocky place on the shore, and cut
+down trees to build a funeral pyre. There we burned the body and
+performed the funeral rites, and we built a tomb and placed an
+oar at the top of it.</p>
+<p>"All this was done quietly, but Circ&egrave; saw us and came
+with her maids, bringing a generous supply of food and wine.
+Standing in our midst, she said: 'Brave men, who living have gone
+down to Hades, all men die once, but you are permitted to die
+twice. Take food, eat and drink all day long, and to-morrow at
+daylight depart for your native land. I will show you the way and
+teach you how to avoid all danger.'</p>
+<p>"We spent the whole day on the shore, eating and drinking, but
+when the sun sank down and the earth was covered with darkness my
+companions went near the ship to seek rest. But I sat down by
+Circ&egrave;, who questioned me about my visit to Hades. After I
+had told her everything, she said: 'Odysseus, so far all is well,
+but there are a great many new dangers ahead. Listen carefully to
+what I say. First, thou must pass the Sirens, who bewitch with
+their melodious voices all who listen to them. Woe to him who
+allows his ship to go near them! He will never reach his native
+land, or see his wife and children again. The Sirens sit in a
+green field and sing, while the bones of dead men lie in heaps
+near them. Do not listen to them, but pass them by unnoticed.</p>
+<p>"'Or, if thou wouldst enjoy the matchless singing and not pay
+the forfeit with thy life, let thy men bind thee hand and foot to
+the mast of thy ship, so that thou canst not by any effort stir a
+limb when the great longing seizes thee. And give thy men strict
+orders to make thy bonds tighter shouldst thou entreat them to
+loose thee. Before thou art bound, thou shalt knead soft wax in
+thy palms and fill the ears of thy companions with it, that no
+sound may enter.</p>
+<p>"'Thence thou wilt come to the narrows where Skylla and
+Charybdis dwell. On each side of the narrows is a steep cliff,
+one of which is so high that its sharp top reaches the sky. It is
+so slippery that no one is able to climb up or down its sides,
+nor could he if he had twenty hands and feet. Not even a bird can
+safely perch on it.</p>
+<p>"'No boat has ever come to the spot and left it without being
+wrecked, except Jason's, when he was in search of the Golden
+Fleece, and he escaped because a goddess was his guide, to pilot
+him through. A dark gray fog forever broods over the head of the
+cliff, and on its western side there yawns a fearful cave, where
+Skylla lives.</p>
+<p>"'She is a terrible monster that barks like a savage dog, day
+and night. She has twelve shapeless feet, and six heads set on
+long necks. Each of her mouths shows three rows of deadly teeth.
+Half of her body is hidden in the rock, but she thrusts out her
+heads and snatches her prey, fish, whales, dolphins, or men. No
+sailor escapes, or, indeed, any living creature that passes that
+way.</p>
+<p>"'The other cliff is not so high, but is still more dangerous.
+There, under the foliage of a wild fig-tree, Charybdis dwells,
+who sucks in the dark waters of the sea three times a day and
+belches them forth again three times with a terrible noise. Woe
+to thee if thou art near when she sucks the waters down, for not
+even Poseidon himself could save thee. It would be better far to
+steer close to Skylla, for then only six of thy men would be
+snatched from the benches, but if Charybdis seizes thy ship all
+must perish.</p>
+<p>"'These pests are immortal. Do not try to overcome them. They
+cannot die. It is better to fly from them with all haste. It
+would be rashness and not courage to attack them.</p>
+<p>"'Next in thy voyage thou wilt come to the island of
+Trinacria, where the fine flocks of H&#275;lios are feeding. Two
+shining nymphs, daughters of the Sun, tend them. There are seven
+herds of oxen and seven herds of sheep, fifty in each herd and
+flock. These creatures are immortal, and greatly beloved of
+H&#275;lios, who will send destruction to thy ship and crew if
+any harm come to them. Forbid thy men to touch the cattle, even
+though suffering for food. If thou art wise enough to escape
+these dangers, thou shalt reach thy home without further
+mischance.'</p>
+<p>"As the goddess finished, day broke. Circ&egrave; sought her
+own dwelling, while we put to sea with a favorable wind, and soon
+the island faded from our sight."</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<center>
+<hr width="20%"></center>
+<br>
+<br>
+<a name="chap24" id="chap24"></a>
+<h3>CHAPTER XXIV</h3>
+<h4>ODYSSEUS MEETS THE SIRENS, SKYLLA, AND CHARYBDIS</h4>
+<br>
+<p>"When I saw that we were near the home of the Sirens, I said
+to my men: 'It is not wise that only one of us should know the
+oracles of Circ&egrave;, and I will tell you all she said to me,
+that ye may escape from the perils before us; and I disclosed her
+sayings to them. Then I took a handful of wax and warmed it in
+the sun until it was soft, and carefully clogged up their
+ears.</p>
+<p>"They, in turn, tied me to the mast, hand and foot, so firmly
+that I could not stir a limb, having first received my command
+that they should not loose my bonds on any account. Then they
+bent to their oars, and rowed close to the Sirens, so that they
+could see me and I could hear their bewitching songs.</p>
+<p>"'Come to us, O renowned Odysseus,' they sang; 'pride of the
+Greeks, come and listen to our voices. No one ever yet passed us
+without stopping and admiring our sweet songs. Come, that we may
+sing to thee about Troy and thy friends, for we know everything
+that is going on in the whole world.'</p>
+<p>"Thus they sang, and their songs thrilled me. A great desire
+came over me to stop and listen to them, and with nods I
+entreated my comrades to set me free. But they sprang up and
+bound other cords about me, so that I struggled in vain. Then all
+the men plied their oars until the water was white with foam, and
+when we were out of sight of the island and could no longer hear
+the songs of the Sirens, my men set me free, and I took the wax
+from their ears.</p>
+<p>"Hardly had we escaped from the Sirens when we beheld a black
+fog and towering waves and heard a frightful noise. My men were
+so scared that the oars fell from their hands and the ship stood
+still. I hastened from one end of the boat to the other, speaking
+cheerful words to each rower. 'My dear friends,' I said, 'have no
+fear. This is not the first time we have encountered danger. We
+have been saved from the hands of the Cyclops through our own
+valor and clever devices, and we are not going to break down now.
+Listen, and I will tell you what is to be done. Keep your seats
+and ply your oars with all your might; but thou, O helmsman,
+steer thy ship clear of that fog and the whirling waves.' Thus I
+spoke, and they willingly obeyed my words.</p>
+<p>"Yet I said nothing to them about Skylla, lest they should
+lose heart and hide in the bottom of the ship. Thus we passed in
+between the two cliffs, the one of which harbored Skylla and the
+other Charybdis, who, with a terrible noise, swallowed the brine
+of the sea and belched it out again with a roar like the mingling
+of fire and water.</p>
+<p>"But I forgot the command of Circ&egrave; to fly from these
+monsters without fighting. I put on my shining armor and took a
+spear in each hand, and went on deck, and stood in warlike
+attitude ready to attack Skylla if she should raise a hand to
+seize one of my men. I looked for a long time, but I could not
+see her.</p>
+<p>"We sailed on, the uproar increasing. My men grew white with
+fear. The salt waters whirled so that we could look into a deep
+watery pit and see the blue sand. The rocks were hidden by a
+thick mist. Suddenly Skylla thrust forth a mighty hand and
+snatched six of my brave men, as a fisherman pulls out fish with
+a hook. I saw their hands outstretched toward me as they were
+lifted up into the air, and I heard their cries for help. Woe is
+me! This sight will haunt me as long as I have life."</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<center>
+<hr width="20%"></center>
+<br>
+<br>
+<a name="chap25" id="chap25"></a>
+<h3>CHAPTER XXV</h3>
+<h4>ODYSSEUS ON THE ISLAND OF H&#274;LIOS</h4>
+<br>
+<p>"When we had escaped from the terrible Skylla and Charybdis,
+we came to the island of H&#275;lios, the island of the Sun, and
+heard from afar the lowing of the cattle and the bleating of the
+sheep. Then I remembered the words of Tiresias and Circ&egrave;,
+and I advised my companions not to land there at all, but to go
+right on, lest we suffer some new disaster.</p>
+<p>"My crew would not listen to me. They commanded me to land on
+the isle. I then made them take an oath not even to look at any
+of the cattle. We prepared our evening meal, and when it was over
+we talked of our dear companions whom Skylla had devoured, and we
+mourned over them until we fell asleep.</p>
+<p>"We remained a whole month on this island, on account of
+unfavorable winds. We found the roomy grot where the nymphs
+danced, and the seats where they sat&mdash;the nymphs who tended
+the flocks of H&#275;lios.</p>
+<p>"As long as we had a plenty of bread and wine my comrades were
+satisfied and spared the cattle. But when our store of food was
+exhausted they roamed all over the island to see what they could
+get to appease their hunger. They snared birds and caught fish
+with hooks, and lived on them or anything else that came to hand.
+But they grew poor and lean with hunger and nearly starved. I
+went off alone into the island, where I had found a quiet nook,
+and sent up prayers to the gods to show us the way out of our
+difficulties. There I fell asleep.</p>
+<p>"While I slumbered, Eurylochos called my men together, and
+said: 'All kinds of death are bad enough, my brave friends, but
+death by starvation is the worst. Let us kill the best of these
+cattle and offer sacrifices to the gods, and then eat and live.
+If we ever get to Ithaca we will make restitution, for we will
+build altars to the Sun and place costly gifts upon his shrine.
+But if it is his will to destroy us in his anger, then let us die
+amid the billows of the deep, for that is better than to die by
+famine.'</p>
+<p>"Thus spoke Eurylochos, and the others lent a willing ear.
+They seized the best of the cattle at once, and slaughtered them,
+and prepared a hearty meal. They offered up petitions to the
+gods, standing round their victims with young oak-leaves in their
+hands. Then they covered the thighs with caul, and laid slices of
+fat over these, and poured on water and roasted it until it was
+consumed. All the rest was cut into smaller portions and scorched
+on iron prongs.</p>
+<p>"At this moment I awoke and hurried down to the ship, and with
+horror found the dreadful meal prepared. One of the nymphs,
+immortal shepherdess, flew to the Sun to tell him that my men had
+slain his cattle. H&#275;lios was deeply angered, and spoke thus
+before the assembled gods: 'Father Zeus and all ye immortal gods,
+behold the comrades of Odysseus! They have slaughtered my
+heifers, which gladdened my heart as I went up to heaven and down
+to earth.</p>
+<p>"'If they do not pay me well for this great wrong, I shall go
+down among the dead and give them light, but I will give no light
+to the living.' 'Shine on, O Sun, in the bright sky,' said Zeus,
+'for I will cut their ship to pieces with a thunder-bolt, as it
+tosses on a black sea.' I could only chide my comrades. I could
+not think of any sufficient redress, for the cattle were
+dead.</p>
+<p>"And here happened a wonder which amazed my comrades. The
+skins of the dead animals crawled over the ground, and the flesh
+lowed as they had done when alive. Nevertheless, my companions
+continued to kill and eat the best oxen in the herds for six
+days, when a favorable wind sprang up, and we went on board and
+set sail once more.</p>
+<p>"After we had lost sight of land, and nothing was before us
+but sky and sea, a sudden darkness shrouded the heavens, and
+there arose a violent storm. The vessel was hurled hither and
+thither by the towering billows; the hurricane tore the sails and
+dashed the mast against the pilot's head, crushing the bones, and
+he was cast headlong into the sea.</p>
+<p>"Then Zeus sent a thunder-bolt into the ship, and broke it
+nearly in two. The boat was filled with a sulphurous smoke, and
+my comrades were shaken off into the sea and drowned. They
+floated round me, but I moved about in the ship until the bottom
+and the sides had broken away from each other and the mast had
+snapped off at its base. I took the mast, which had a thong of
+bull's-hide round it, and tied it to the keel. I took my seat
+upon this frail craft, and the storm whirled me about.</p>
+<p>"After awhile the west wind ceased, and the south wind began
+to blow, which was still worse for me, since it took me back to
+dread Charybdis. All night long I was tossed on the waves, and at
+dawn I drew near to Charybdis. As the monster was swallowing the
+salt brine, I caught hold of the fig-tree and clung to it like a
+bat till she should throw up my poor raft. I waited long, but at
+last the timbers were thrown out of the whirlpool, and I dropped
+down upon them, and sat on them and rowed with my hands. I
+floated about on the waters for nine long days, and on the tenth
+I came to Calypso's island. She welcomed me, and detained me
+seven years, as I have already told thee, O Aret&egrave;, and why
+should I repeat a tale already narrated?"</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<center>
+<hr width="20%"></center>
+<br>
+<br>
+<a name="chap26" id="chap26"></a>
+<h3>CHAPTER XXVI</h3>
+<h4>THE DEPARTURE OF ODYSSEUS FROM THE ISLAND OF SCHERIA</h4>
+<br>
+<p>All the guests had listened with deep attention to the recital
+of Odysseus; all were greatly interested, and when he ended they
+did not stir or speak a word. Alkino&ouml;s was the first to
+break the silence, and he said: "Renowned Odysseus, since thou
+hast come to our country, I hope that thy sufferings are at an
+end and that thou wilt reach thy native land safely and soon."
+Then the King turned to his guests and addressed them:
+"Ph&aelig;acians, let us each present one more gift, a large
+tripod and a vase, to the hero who has come among us."</p>
+<p>The Ph&aelig;acians received his words approvingly, and each
+went at once to his home to sleep. But when morning came they all
+sent their gifts to the ship, where they were packed carefully
+under the benches by the King himself, and the guests returned to
+the palace, where a banquet was spread for them.</p>
+<p>Alkino&ouml;s sacrificed an ox to Zeus, and they sat down at
+the table. The enjoyment ran high, and the old poet, Demodokos,
+sang sweet songs. They feasted all day, and when the sun was near
+its setting Odysseus said: "King Alkino&ouml;s, let us pour out
+the last libation and offer up the last prayer, for all things
+have come to pass that my soul desired. May the gods bless thy
+gifts. May I find my home, my wife and child, and friends. I pray
+the gods to grant thee all that is good, and may no evil ever
+befall thy land. Be pleased to send me hence, and fare thee
+well."</p>
+<p>Thus he spoke, right glad that the day was done and eager to
+set sail. The people approved his timely words, and seizing their
+goblets they poured out wine on to the ground, an offering to the
+gods, and they wished godspeed to their guest. Odysseus arose and
+placed a goblet in the hands of the Queen, addressing her thus:
+"Farewell, O Queen, I wish thee a long and happy life, a peaceful
+old age down to the grave, from which no one may escape; rejoice
+in the possession of thy home, thy people, thy children, and the
+King, thy husband."</p>
+<p>So spoke Odysseus, and left the hall. The King sent a herald
+to show him the way to the port where the ship was waiting for
+him. At the same time Aret&egrave; also sent down some maids, who
+carried a new cloak and tunic, a well-wrought coffer full of
+gifts, and an abundance of food for the journey.</p>
+<p>These things the crew took from their hands and stowed away in
+the hold of the vessel. They spread a nice bed for him on the
+deck, where he might sleep quietly. When every thing was ready,
+Odysseus embarked, and the sailors slipped the cables and took
+their seats at the oars. Odysseus fell into a deep, sweet
+slumber, but the ship flew forward faster than a bird could fly,
+making rapid headway toward the island of Ithaca.</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<center>
+<hr width="20%"></center>
+<br>
+<br>
+<a name="chap27" id="chap27"></a>
+<h3>CHAPTER XXVII</h3>
+<h4>ODYSSEUS ARRIVES AT ITHACA</h4>
+<br>
+<p>When the morning star arose the ship reached Ithaca. It
+entered a harbor called Phorkys, where there was a grotto sacred
+to the nymphs, and it was shaded at the entrance by an
+olive-tree. Stone vases stood around in the grotto, and there
+bees had stored up honey. The nymphs spun their fine thread from
+stone spindles there, and wove their sea-purple robes. Springs of
+cool water flowed through the grotto, and there was an entrance
+for mortals and one which was kept holy for the gods.</p>
+<p>When the ship touched the beach the sailors disembarked and
+carried the sleeping Odysseus on a rug on to the shore and laid
+him down. They brought his presents also from under the ship's
+benches and laid them under the olive-tree, a short distance from
+the road, for fear that some evil-minded person would take them
+before Odysseus woke up.</p>
+<p>Then the crew sailed homeward, but Poseidon saw them and was
+angry because his purpose to cause Odysseus endless suffering had
+been thwarted. He at once complained to Zeus that the
+Ph&aelig;acians had restored Odysseus to his native land, with
+gifts finer and more valuable than anything he could have brought
+from Troy. Zeus listened to his complaint and gave him authority
+to destroy the Ph&aelig;acian boat and its crew. Poseidon
+promptly repaired to the island of Scheria, and when the ship
+came in sight of the town he transformed it into a towering rock,
+that it might hide the island from mariners and the
+Ph&aelig;acians would no longer be tempted to escort strangers to
+their homes.</p>
+<p>The ship had gone, and it was broad daylight when Odysseus
+awoke. He did not recognize his own country, he had been away
+from it for such a long time, and besides that, Athena had spread
+a dense fog over it. His first thought was that the
+Ph&aelig;acians had deceived him and left him on an unknown
+shore. He began to accuse them of treachery, and prayed to Zeus
+to punish them. He looked around and found that his gifts had
+been carefully placed, so he knew that he had not been robbed. He
+counted his gifts and examined them.</p>
+<p>There were tripods and vases of gold and brass and beautiful
+hand-woven garments. He paced up and down the shore and wept and
+wailed aloud. Then Athena appeared to him disguised as a shepherd
+lad.</p>
+<p>When Odysseus saw her, he hastened to her and said: "Hail,
+fair youth! I am a stranger and find myself for the first time in
+this place. I entreat thee to tell me the name of this country,
+and what kind of people inhabit it." The goddess answered him:
+"Truly, stranger, thou must come from a far-off land that thou
+dost not know Ithaca, which is known from the rising to the
+setting of the sun.</p>
+<p>"It is indeed a stony island but it is not barren, nor is it a
+good place for raising horses. It is rich in grain and grapes. It
+has an abundance of dew and rain, and most delicious wine is made
+here. Nowhere can be found handsomer goats or finer cattle. Every
+kind of tree grows in its forests, and its springs are never dry.
+The fame of Ithaca has reached even as far as Troy itself which,
+I am told, lies far from Hellas."</p>
+<p>Odysseus was overjoyed to find that he was in his own country.
+But he did not venture to tell his name to the shepherd, nor
+whence he came. Instead of that he told a long story that he came
+from Crete, which he had been obliged to leave because he had
+killed the King's son, who had robbed him.</p>
+<p>Athena smiled and, assuming the form of a beautiful woman,
+took him by the hand and said: "Thou crafty man, why dost thou
+tell such lies? Dost thou not know Athena, daughter of Zeus, who
+has protected thee everywhere and saved thee from all danger? I
+have just come again to assist thee in hiding thy treasures and
+to tell thee what thou must encounter in thine own palace. But
+thou must not repeat anything which I tell thee, nor make thyself
+known to any man or woman. And thou must bear many indignities in
+silence until the right time comes, for there are many violent
+men in thy halls."</p>
+<p>Odysseus's heart was filled with joy. He knelt down and kissed
+the soil of his native land. "Tell me, is it true," he said,
+"that I am in my own beloved Ithaca? I pray thee, goddess, do not
+jest with me."</p>
+<p>"Thy native land! Such ever is thy thought," answered the
+goddess. "Any other man would have hastened with all speed to his
+wife and home. But thou must wait and come not at once into the
+presence of Penelope. She sits within thy palace, weeping night
+and day because thou dost not come. Hide thy gifts here in this
+grotto, and I will tell thee what to do next."</p>
+<p>With a glad heart Odysseus saluted the nymphs of the cave and
+spring: "Hail to you, nymphs of my native land, daughters of
+Zeus! I thought I should never see you again. I shall bring you
+rich gifts in days to come, if it please Athena to keep me from
+harm." After he had carried the presents into the grotto and
+carefully hidden them, he sat down with the goddess among the
+gnarled roots of the olive-tree, and they laid plots to destroy
+Penelope's impudent suitors. Athena told him about the trouble
+they had caused her; how they had established themselves in her
+own home, trying to win her for a wife. For three years the noble
+Penelope had kept these arrogant men in suspense, deluded with
+empty hopes, while she waited for her husband's return. When
+Odysseus heard these words he was greatly disturbed, and said:
+"Woe is me! I might have been slain in my own home but for these
+timely words. Now I am forearmed. Stand by me, I pray, in my
+great need, and give me strength to meet my enemies. If thou art
+my helper, I can resist, single-handed, three hundred foes."</p>
+<p>"Take courage," said the goddess. "But to carry out our plans
+I must change thee to a miserable old man with a wrinkled face
+and clad in ragged garments, so that no one can recognize
+thee.</p>
+<p>"Then must thou go to thy faithful swineherd, Eumaios, who
+loves thy wife and child and thy whole house.</p>
+<p>"Thou wilt find him as he feeds the swine on acorns in a field
+near the mountain, Korax, and the spring, Arethusa. He will tell
+thee all the doings in thy house. Meantime I will take my way to
+Sparta. Telemachos, thy son, is there. He went to visit Menelaos
+and try to find out if there were any news of thee. I will call
+him to return to Ithaca."</p>
+<p>The goddess touched Odysseus with her magic wand. At once he
+shrank and withered into a wrinkled, shabby, old beggar. Then she
+gave him a staff and a tattered sack and sent him to his loyal
+swineherd while she took her way to Sparta.</p>
+<a name="ill4" id="ill4"></a>
+<table align="center" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="6"
+summary="alpheus">
+<tr>
+<td width="626"><img src="images/4.jpg" alt=
+"ALPHEUS AND ARETHUSA"></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td width="626" align="center">ALPHEUS AND ARETHUSA</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<center>
+<hr width="20%"></center>
+<br>
+<br>
+<a name="chap28" id="chap28"></a>
+<h3>CHAPTER XXVIII</h3>
+<h4>ODYSSEUS SEEKS THE SWINEHERD</h4>
+<br>
+<p>Odysseus left the haven by a narrow stony path and took his
+way to the dwelling of his faithful swineherd, who thought more
+of the welfare of his master than did all the rest of the
+servants whom Odysseus had. He found him seated in the yard which
+he himself had made of stone for the swine of the absent King,
+and had enclosed with a thick hedge of thorns. He had driven
+strong posts of oak around it, also. Inside the yard he had made
+twelve sties, and in each sty there were fifty sows with their
+little ones. The males were kept outside and were fewer in
+number, for Eumaios was compelled to send a very fat one to the
+suitors every day, and therefore there were only eighteen
+score.</p>
+<p>Near them were four large savage dogs as guards. They were
+more like wolves than dogs. Eumaios was busy making a pair of
+sandals from an ox-hide, for his own use. The other swineherds
+had gone on errands, three of them to drive pigs to pasture,
+while the fourth had taken a hog to the suitors in the city.</p>
+<p>When the dogs saw Odysseus they barked and rushed upon him,
+and they would have torn him to pieces, but Eumaios drove them
+off with stones and said: "Thou poor old man, the dogs came very
+near tearing thee limb from limb, and that would have been a
+great shame and sorrow to me.</p>
+<p>"The gods have already sent me trouble enough. Here I sit
+weeping and mourning for my beloved master, and take care of his
+swine in order that strangers may eat them. Who knows where he
+may be wandering as a beggar among people who speak another
+tongue? But come, old man, let us go into my lodge and eat, and
+then thou mayest tell me who thou art and what misfortunes thou
+hast suffered."</p>
+<p>Odysseus followed the swineherd into the cabin. Eumaios threw
+an armful of rushes on the floor and covered it with a rug of
+goat-skin and bade his guest be seated.</p>
+<p>Odysseus was gratified at this kind reception, and said to the
+swineherd: "May Zeus and all the other immortal gods give thee,
+my host, all the good of earth for thy hospitality."</p>
+<p>The good swineherd answered him: "My guest, I should consider
+it a great sin not to receive a stranger hospitably, even if he
+looked more miserable than thou. Strangers and beggars are
+children of Zeus. The hospitality I can extend to thee is slight
+but sincere, for servants have little to offer, especially when,
+like me, they have new masters. Odysseus loved me much. Would
+that the gods might send him back to us. He would have paid me
+for my toil. He would have given me a home, a little land, and a
+wife. But he is dead. May the whole race of Helen be destroyed,
+for it was she who brought noble men to destruction."</p>
+<p>The swineherd drew his belt around him and hastened to the pen
+where the pigs were shut up. He seized two little pigs and slew
+them and roasted them on a spit over the fire. He sprinkled salt
+over the savory meat and brought it to Odysseus. And he brought
+delicate wine in a wooden cup, as well.</p>
+<p>Then he said: "Eat, stranger, for this is the best I have to
+give. The suitors, who fear neither god nor man, eat the fat
+hogs. They gorge themselves with the costliest food in the house,
+both wine and meat, and only these little lean porkers are left
+for us. Yet there is still an abundance, for my master was very
+rich. He had twelve herds of horned cattle and as many swine on
+the mainland, and twelve flocks of sheep and goats. Here, on the
+island, graze eleven flocks of goats, tended by as many trusty
+herdsmen, each of whom has to send a fattened goat for the table
+of the suitors every day. As for myself, I take care of these
+swine, and each day I choose the best to send to the city."</p>
+<p>Odysseus ate the flesh and drank the wine while Eumaios was
+telling him these things, and could hardly keep from giving vent
+to his anger. But he kept silence and meditated vengeance on the
+suitors. When the meal was done he said: "Tell me, I pray thee,
+all about thy rich and kind master. Thou didst say that he went
+out with Agamemnon to fight the Trojans. Perhaps I know him and
+can give thee some information concerning him."</p>
+<p>The noble swineherd answered: "Be silent, aged man, for we
+have ceased to believe the tales told us by wanderers. Every
+beggar who comes this way calls on my mistress and tells her
+falsehoods about seeing Odysseus, and tries to make her think
+that he will come home in a short time. Then she treats him
+kindly and loads him with gifts.</p>
+<p>"How shall we know but thou dost make up just such a story in
+order to receive a tunic and a mantle? It is a fact that my
+master does not return. Who knows on what spot of the earth his
+bones are mouldering, or what dogs and birds have devoured him? I
+shall never cease to grieve for him. He loved me as he would have
+loved a son. I shall never find such a kind master again. Even my
+father and mother were not so good to me. Although he will never
+be with us any more, I keep on doing his will."</p>
+<a name="ill5" id="ill5"></a>
+<table align="center" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="6"
+summary="swineherd">
+<tr>
+<td width="717"><img src="images/5.jpg" alt=
+"THE SWINEHERD TELLING HIS STORY TO ODYSSEUS"></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td width="717" align="center">THE SWINEHERD TELLING HIS STORY TO
+ODYSSEUS</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+<p>Odysseus replied: "Thou dost see that I am half naked for want
+of clothing, but I will never take a reward, even though I am in
+rags, until Odysseus is really here. I hate the wretch who tells
+lies to enrich himself as I hate death. I call Zeus to witness,
+and this hospitable board and the hearth of Odysseus, that what I
+tell thee will come true. Odysseus will be here at the end of
+this month, and he will be avenged on those men who have robbed
+him and insulted his wife and son."</p>
+<p>"And yet I will not give thee any reward for thy news, old
+man," said Eumaios, "for Odysseus is dead. He will never come
+again. Drink in peace and let us talk of other things. Do not
+take this great oath, as much as we wish&mdash;Laertes, Penelope,
+Telemachos, and I&mdash;that Odysseus might come. But now, as if
+we had not troubles enough, a new one has come upon us. I know
+not what evil demon put it into the mind of Telemachos to go to
+Sparta to inquire about his father. And the ungodly suitors have
+sent out a ship to watch for him, and kill him on his return. We
+shall lose him, too, if Zeus does not hold a protecting hand over
+him.</p>
+<p>"But tell me, dear old man, from what country dost thou come?
+Who are thy parents? Tell me of thy toils and sufferings."</p>
+<p>The time had not yet come when Odysseus thought it best to
+reveal himself. He wanted to stay with the swineherd until his
+son should return, and he had had the opportunity of making the
+best plan for ridding his house of the suitors. So he told the
+swineherd a long string of stories. He said he was a son of the
+King of Crete; that he went to Troy, where he met Odysseus and
+fought by his side. Returning, he wandered about, and, after many
+adventures, met Odysseus again getting ready to return to Ithaca.
+As for himself, he had been robbed even to his clothing and cast
+on this island.</p>
+<p>He told the tale so well that the swineherd believed him, and
+even killed a fat hog in his honor. And he made him welcome to
+his lodge and prepared a good bed for him near the fire, and
+covered him with goat-skins. The night was cold and damp, and a
+cutting wind was blowing outside. The other servants lay down
+near Odysseus to sleep, but Eumaios took a sharp sword and thick
+mantle and went out near the pens to watch the swine all night.
+Odysseus saw with gratitude how faithfully this servant attended
+to his duty.</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<h4>PART III</h4>
+<h2>THE TRIUMPH OF ODYSSEUS</h2>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<a name="chap29" id="chap29"></a>
+<h3>CHAPTER XXIX</h3>
+<h4>ATHENA ADVISES TELEMACHOS</h4>
+<br>
+<p>At the time when Odysseus was wrecked, after his comrades had
+eaten of the cattle of H&#275;lios, and he was cast up on to the
+island of Calypso, Athena prayed to Zeus, her mighty sire, that
+he might be restored to Ithaca, his native land. She prayed that
+Hermes, the messenger of the gods, might be sent to Calypso with
+the express command that she should send Odysseus home. Zeus
+smiled and granted the request.</p>
+<p>Then Athena tied golden sandals under her feet and taking a
+long, heavy spear, she rushed like a whirlwind down from the
+heights of Olympos and stood at the doorway of Odysseus' house,
+among the men of Ithaca. She found the haughty suitors assembled
+there eating and drinking.</p>
+<p>Telemachos saw the goddess before anyone else. She was
+disguised to resemble Mentor, a wise chief who had led the
+Taphians in the Trojan war. Telemachos rose at once, like a
+gracious host, and took the right hand of the stranger and gave
+him a hearty welcome. Athena saw with anger how the ungodly
+wooers ate and drank and rioted gluttonously, while the servants
+of Telemachos were obliged to administer to their wants. Some of
+them were kept mixing the wines and water in large craters;
+others had to clear and clean the tables, and others again
+prepared and carved the meats and carried them round to the
+suitors.</p>
+<p>Telemachos led the stranger away from this noisy hall, that he
+might not be annoyed by their boisterous behavior. He bade him
+sit down on a throne, and placed a foot-stool under his feet.
+Then he drew his own chair from among the suitors and sat near
+the stranger, hoping to hear news of his absent father. A maid
+brought a silver pitcher and basin and let the stranger wash his
+hands. A table was placed before him, laden with the choicest
+viands, while a herald filled a goblet with wine for him. When
+they had enjoyed their meal, Telemachos asked the stranger his
+name and country.</p>
+<p>"I am Mentor, son of the Taphian King," said Athena. "I came
+here in my ship with a crew of friends, on a journey to the Isle
+of Cyprus, in search of copper, and I brought iron to give in
+exchange. I am an old friend of Odysseus. I have left my ship in
+the bay, back of the forest. Laertes will tell thee who I am. It
+is said that he does not come to the palace any more, but lives
+alone in the country, mourning over the loss of his son day and
+night. It seems that the gods have long delayed Odysseus. Who
+knows where he is? I am sure that he is not dead. And now tell
+me, what feast is going on here, and who are these men? Are they
+invited guests? Is it a banquet I see, or is there to be a
+wedding? It is not a pleasant sight in any case, for the men are
+coarse in their actions and ungodly in their speech. Every friend
+of Odysseus must feel sad to see them in this place."</p>
+<p>"As long as my father was here," answered Telemachos, "our
+house was respectable and rich. But the gods have forsaken us,
+and we are destined to destruction. No news of my father's death
+has ever reached us; nevertheless, all the young men of the first
+families of Ithaca and the surrounding isles flock to our house
+and seek my mother for a wife and squander my father's riches. My
+mother does not favor the idea of another marriage, and has not
+promised herself to any of the suitors. She fears them, and so
+she does not reject their suits, yet she will not end the trouble
+by marrying one of them. They will not go away, but make
+themselves at home here and eat up my inheritance. They only want
+a favorable opportunity to kill me."</p>
+<p>Athena grew angry at this, and said: "I would that Odysseus
+might come this very moment to chastise these atrocious fellows.
+Woe to them if he should appear at the door with his helmet and
+shield and two tough spears, just as he looked when I first
+beheld him in my own home. Then these suitors would find a bitter
+marriage-feast and a speedy end. Vengeance, however, rests with
+the gods.</p>
+<p>"Now, let me consider the best way to get these suitors out of
+the house. As an old friend of thy father, let me advise thee.
+To-morrow call thy people together in council and tell the
+suitors to depart. If thy mother has any inclination to wed
+again, send her to her father's house. He is rich and powerful,
+and can give her a splendid wedding, such as is suitable for the
+daughter of a king, and bestow an ample dower.</p>
+<p>"Then launch thy finest ship. Man it with twenty good oarsmen
+and put out to sea in search of thy father. Sail to Pylos first
+and consult with Nestor, and go to Sparta next and see Menelaos,
+who has returned from Troy recently. Stay with him awhile if he
+can assure thee that thy father lives. But if he tells thee that
+thy father is surely dead, return as quickly as possible and
+build a mound to him, and cause the altar to be piled high with
+sacrifices and the funeral games to take place. Then let thy
+mother marry again.</p>
+<p>"Thou art no longer a child, and it is not seemly to allow
+such indignities. Be brave and act without fear, that men may
+honor thee. When thou hast performed these deeds, let thy care be
+to drive out the suitors. But now I must return to my ship, for
+my companions will be uneasy over my long absence."</p>
+<p>"Thou hast spoken to me as a father speaks to a son," answered
+Telemachos. "I shall bear thy words in mind. And now I pray thee
+stay awhile to rest and bathe. I cannot let thee go to thy ship
+without some handsome gift, such as one always bestows upon an
+honored guest."</p>
+<p>"Telemachos, do not detain me longer," replied Athena. "I must
+depart at once. Keep thy gift until I return, and then I will
+take it to my home." She vanished as she spoke, and all that
+Telemachos saw was a fleet-winged bird flying upward high in the
+air. Telemachos was astonished, and knew that he had been talking
+face to face with some deity. He thought over all that the
+goddess had told him, and resolved to do exactly as he had been
+instructed.</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<center>
+<hr width="20%"></center>
+<br>
+<br>
+<a name="chap30" id="chap30"></a>
+<h3>CHAPTER XXX</h3>
+<h4>TELEMACHOS ASTONISHES THE WOOERS</h4>
+<br>
+<p>The feast continued. The wooers ate and drank but were silent,
+for an illustrious bard was singing to them of the Trojan war.
+Telemachos walked forth in the midst of them, his heart inspired
+with courage. Penelope had heard the song as she sat in her
+chamber over the hall, and she came down the lofty stairway
+attended by two maids. She implored the bard, with tears to
+change the song, since it was the one most sacred to her and made
+her sad.</p>
+<p>Then said Telemachos: "My mother, let thy heart be strong to
+bear this song which all men love. The bard must sing the song
+with which he is inspired. Retire now, I pray thee, to thy room,
+and take thy maids with thee. There teach them to spin and
+weave&mdash;a task meet for a princess. But leave to me the
+ordering of the feast and the care of the suitors. Such a duty
+belongs to a man, and the authority is mine." Penelope was amazed
+at his words. She withdrew to her own rooms with her attendants
+and wept and mourned for her absent lord until she fell
+asleep.</p>
+<p>When the minstrel had finished his song, the suitors began to
+be noisy and riotous again. Telemachos could no longer restrain
+himself. "Ye insolent suitors of my mother," he said to them,
+"cease your uproar. Your lawlessness knows no bounds. To-morrow I
+will call a general assembly of all the Ithacans and warn you to
+depart. If ye remain in my house wasting my goods and eating food
+that is not your own I will call down vengeance from the gods,
+and ye shall die in this very palace."</p>
+<p>The suitors were astonished at his courage and his words. He
+had never before spoken out with authority. Antino&ouml;s and
+Eurymachos, the most insolent of them, began to ridicule him and
+excite the others to make fun of him. And they asked Telemachos
+what guest he had been entertaining so secretly and what news he
+had brought from his father. The suitors danced and sang, eating
+and drinking, until evening, before they went home.</p>
+<p>Telemachos then sought his own couch. His old nurse,
+Eurycleia, led the way with two torches. She had been a faithful
+servant since Laertes, in his early manhood, had bought her for
+the price of a hundred oxen.</p>
+<p>Telemachos sat down on his bed, and removing his tunic handed
+it to the nurse, who folded it and smoothed it and hung it up. He
+lay down and covered himself with soft fleeces, while Eurycleia
+went out and carefully locked the door. But sleep did not come to
+him. All night he thought of what the coming day would bring.</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<center>
+<hr width="20%"></center>
+<br>
+<br>
+<a name="chap31" id="chap31"></a>
+<h3>CHAPTER XXXI</h3>
+<h4>PENELOPE'S WEB</h4>
+<br>
+<p>The next morning, at dawn of day, Telemachos rose from his bed
+and put on his garments. He hung his sword over his shoulder and
+fastened his sandals on his feet and strode bravely forth. He
+summoned his heralds at once and bade them call a council of the
+Ithacans. The people came at the appointed time, and Telemachos,
+sceptre in hand, took his place before the assembly and called it
+to order.</p>
+<p>"I have not summoned you, my friends," he said, "in order that
+ye may see some entertaining show, but out of dire necessity. I
+bring no news of war and I have nothing to say that concerns the
+public good. You all know the grief which has befallen me on
+account of my father, your king and leader, who loved you as a
+parent loves his children. But Odysseus is gone and there is no
+hope of his return. This misfortune is not enough, for every day
+the young men of the leading families of Ithaca and the
+surrounding isles meet in my house and vex my mother with
+unseemly and importunate offers of marriage.</p>
+<p>"There they are now installed, eating our food, drinking our
+wine, and wasting our money, for Odysseus is not here to drive
+them out. I have no way of expelling them from my home. My
+friends, consider these wrongs and help me to drive these robbers
+from the house of your king. It would be a shame to the people of
+Ithaca if it were noised around that they left the son of their
+chief in the hands of plunderers without giving him help."</p>
+<p>Thus spoke Telemachos, the tears running down his cheeks, and
+he threw the sceptre on the ground. The people were greatly
+moved, and felt pity for the youth who had to suffer such wrongs,
+but they were silent. Only Antino&ouml;s, the most insolent of
+the suitors, took up the word and said: "Shameless Telemachos,
+how dost thou dare to chide us for this state of things! Thy
+mother is the one to blame. She has been leading us on for three
+whole years. She is skilful and crafty. She promised, three years
+ago, to choose one of us for a husband as soon as she should
+finish the winding-sheets for old Laertes in case of his
+death.</p>
+<p>"Then she began to weave upon her loom a dainty web of vast
+length and width. And she said to each one of us: 'Do not urge me
+to marry, I pray, until I finish these shrouds for the hero
+Laertes, when his hour of death shall come. I have spun an
+abundance of fine thread, and it must not be wasted. Besides
+that, the dames of Greece would speak ill of me if I should leave
+my husband's father without a shroud, for he has had great wealth
+all his life.' In this way Penelope gave us hope, and we were too
+generous to persist in forcing her to choose at once.</p>
+<p>"She went on in this way, weaving the great web by day, and
+every night she unravelled by torchlight all that she had woven
+by sunlight. She has deceived us long enough. We have discovered
+her fraud; for a woman who has seen her unravelling the web has
+told us all about it. She must finish the work and make her
+choice among her suitors. If thou dost wish us to leave thy
+house, thou shalt send thy mother to her parents and let her
+father command her to marry one of us, according to her choice.
+When this is done no one will disturb thee any longer.</p>
+<p>"If, however, Penelope prefers to treat the noble sons of
+Greece with such malice and craft, we will go right on consuming
+thy goods. She will thus make a great name for herself, but she
+will impoverish thee."</p>
+<p>"I shall never send my mother away from her husband's house,"
+rejoined Telemachos. "Living or dead, my father is in distant
+lands, and if I should dismiss his wife of my own will, I should
+invite the hatred of the gods on my guilty head. She would call
+upon the Furies to haunt me; all men would curse me; and her
+father would demand ample satisfaction of me. I will never speak
+the word to send her forth. Now, get you gone and cease
+squandering my riches or I will call down the wrath of the gods
+on you."</p>
+<p>Having said this, Telemachos sat down, and Zeus sent two
+eagles flying over the heads of the wooers, close to each other.
+They looked down upon the crowd of people and tore each other's
+heads and vanished. The Ithacans saw the deadly omen, and a
+venerable prophet among them stood up and said: "Noble youths, I
+advise you seriously to depart from this royal house, for this is
+a sign that Odysseus is coming home. Woe to you if he finds you
+in his palace. You will all meet a direful end."</p>
+<p>Eurymachos answered him: "Old man, keep thy advice and thy
+forebodings for thine own children. We do not need them. Advise
+Telemachos to change his mind and send his mother home to her
+father, instead of prating foolishly to us. As long as he keeps
+her here we shall continue to consume his wealth, until he has
+nothing left. And we will punish thee severely if thou dost
+incite this young man to violence."</p>
+<p>Telemachos, thinking it best to be discreet, replied: "Now
+hear me, Eurymachos, and all ye suitors. Give me a good ship and
+twenty men, that I may go from land to land in search of my
+father. If I find that he lives and may return, I will wait one
+year longer for him to reach home. But if I hear that he is not
+alive, I will come back and build a mound to his memory and give
+him a funeral worthy of such a king. Then shall my mother make
+her choice and wed."</p>
+<p>Mentor, the stanch friend and adviser of Odysseus, sat among
+the Ithacans in the assembly. When he saw how Telemachos was put
+to shame, he grew angry. He rose to his feet, and addressed the
+people: "No king ever again should be wise and good. He should be
+hard and unjust, since no one of you has enough love for Odysseus
+to stand by his son. I am less ashamed of the impudent suitors,
+than I am of the weaklings who see what they are doing and who
+dare not interfere."</p>
+<p>"Foolish old Mentor," said one of the suitors, "what art thou
+saying! If Odysseus, himself, should come hither, he would not be
+able to drive us out. If anyone thinks himself strong enough to
+do it, let him try it. Ye Ithacans disperse to your homes, and
+leave Mentor to provide the boy with a ship." So saying he
+dispersed the crowd, and the wooers all went into the palace to
+continue their revelry.</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<center>
+<hr width="20%"></center>
+<br>
+<br>
+<a name="chap32" id="chap32"></a>
+<h3>CHAPTER XXXII</h3>
+<h4>THE JOURNEY OF TELEMACHOS</h4>
+<br>
+<p>Telemachos left the assembly and went down to the sea-shore
+alone, and washing his hands in the surf called on the goddess
+who had appeared to him the day before to come to his assistance.
+At once Athena stood by his side in the guise and with the voice
+of Mentor. She urged him to hasten his journey. Telemachos took
+new courage, and returned at once to his house where he found his
+old nurse, Eurycleia, alone. He revealed to her his intention,
+and asked her to assist him in getting everything ready for the
+journey. He bade her draw twelve jars of the best wine, and
+twelve skins of the finest meal to put aboard the ship.</p>
+<p>When the old nurse heard this she wept and beat her breast.
+"Dear child," she said, "who has put such a thought into thy
+mind? Why shouldst thou, an only son and well beloved, wander off
+to a distant land? Be warned by what thy father had to suffer
+because he left his own country. The suitors will plot to kill
+thee and divide thy wealth. Stay here, at home; there is no need
+that thou shouldst venture over the fearful sea."</p>
+<p>Telemachos answered her: "Take courage, my good nurse; this
+journey is advised of a god. Do not let my mother know of my
+departure for eleven or twelve days, lest she weep and
+mourn."</p>
+<p>The nurse promised most solemnly that she would keep his
+secret and execute his orders. She drew the wine into the jars
+and filled the strong skins with meal. Meantime, Athena,
+blue-eyed goddess, taking the form of Telemachos, went through
+the city and urged the men to repair to the ships at sundown, for
+she had chosen the best boats in Ithaca for the youth, and found
+for him a crew that was glad to serve him.</p>
+<p>Then the blue-eyed maid went to the palace and poured sleep
+upon the eyelids of the drunken suitors. They gladly sought their
+beds in their own homes. Taking the form of Mentor, she next
+appeared to Telemachos and bade him follow her to the beach. When
+they reached the galley, he found his comrades waiting. They
+hurried up to the palace for the wine and meal, which they soon
+brought to the ship and stored in the hold. Then the crew slipped
+the cables which held the ship to the shore. Athena took her seat
+at the stern and Telemachos sat near her. The sails were spread
+and the sailors began to ply their oars. Athena raised a
+favorable breeze and the vessel glided forward cutting her way
+through the roaring waters.</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<center>
+<hr width="20%"></center>
+<br>
+<br>
+<a name="chap33" id="chap33"></a>
+<h3>CHAPTER XXXIII</h3>
+<h4>TELEMACHOS IN PYLOS</h4>
+<br>
+<p>At sunrise the ship arrived at Pylos. The people of that town
+were all assembled on the shore, where they were sacrificing
+coal-black oxen to Poseidon. Some were burning fat upon the
+altar, and others were distributing food among those who were
+offering up the sacrifices, while all were eating.</p>
+<p>The Ithacans touched land. Telemachos and Athena disembarked,
+leaving the crew to guard the ship, and went up to the crowd. On
+the way Athena cheered Telemachos and advised him what to say to
+the people. When they had come near enough to the inhabitants to
+be seen by them, the people rose and came to meet the strangers.
+First of all, the son of Nestor, Peisistratos, approached and
+took each of them by the hand and led them to the feast. He bade
+them be seated near his father and brought them the choicest
+meat.</p>
+<p>After the strangers had eaten, Peisistratos filled a golden
+goblet with wine, and handed it to Mentor, as the elder. Mentor
+was pleased with the young man's good breeding and he took the
+goblet and poured out a part of it on the ground as a sacrifice
+to Poseidon, with a prayer for a safe return. Then he handed the
+goblet to Telemachos, and he did likewise.</p>
+<p>When the feast was over, Nestor, the King of Pylos, said to
+his guests: "The time has come, dear strangers, when it is
+fitting to ask your names, and from what land you come. Do you
+roam the seas as pirates, or do you come on an errand?"</p>
+<p>"We are Greeks," said Telemachos. "We come from Ithaca to seek
+tidings of my father, the unfortunate Odysseus, who went to war
+against Troy with thee and the other Greek chiefs. We have never
+heard anything of him during all these long years and do not know
+whether he is living or dead. I pray thee tell me anything thou
+may'st know about him, and conceal nothing."</p>
+<p>"My son," Nestor replied, "thou dost call to mind the great
+sufferings borne by the men of Greece ere we succeeded in
+conquering Priam's town. It would take years to tell thee of the
+brave deeds of the Greeks, how they fought and where they fell.
+We passed nine years in worrying the enemy, and there was no man
+who gave better counsel or performed nobler deeds than did
+Odysseus. Art thou then his son? I look on thee in wonder. Yes,
+thou art like him. How strange to hear so young a man speak as he
+did!</p>
+<p>"After the destruction of Troy, the surviving Greeks embarked,
+and we set out for home. But when we reached Tenedos, thy father
+returned to Troy to join Agamemnon and the others, who had stayed
+behind, to appease the wrath of Athena, for a Greek had committed
+sacrilege in her temple.</p>
+<p>"Our voyage was prosperous, and we all reached home except
+Menelaos, who wandered about in Crete and Egypt for a long time.
+It is said that the noble son of Achilles returned home safely,
+and that Agamemnon was slain in his own house, and his son took
+vengeance on his murderers. There is a rumor, too, that many
+suitors hang about thy mother, and, in spite of thy
+remonstrances, consume thy riches. Be brave, my son, and yield
+not. Odysseus may come again. Go at once to Menelaos, for he may
+have news of thy father. I will give thee swift horses and a
+chariot, and my sons will drive."</p>
+<p>All day Telemachos discoursed with Nestor, and when the sun
+went down, they poured wine on the earth and burned an offering
+to the gods. Telemachos and Mentor arose to retire to their ship,
+but Nestor begged them to be his guests and go to the royal
+palace. Mentor, as the elder of the two, excused himself, in
+order to join the crew, and suddenly disappeared. Nestor
+recognized that Telemachos was attended by the goddess, and
+offered a prayer to her. The assembly dispersed, and Nestor, with
+his guest and his sons, retired to his palace.</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<center>
+<hr width="20%"></center>
+<br>
+<br>
+<a name="chap34" id="chap34"></a>
+<h3>CHAPTER XXXIV</h3>
+<h4>TELEMACHOS IN SPARTA</h4>
+<br>
+<p>Before the sun was fairly up, they all arose and seated
+themselves on the smooth stone benches that loomed up in the
+gloaming, white and shining, before the gates of the palace.
+Nestor bade one of his sons to prepare an offering to Athena, of
+the best heifer in the fields. He sent another son to call a
+skilled workman to plate the heifer's horns with gold, and two
+others yet to bring the crew from the ship. He told the remaining
+two sons to bid the maids prepare a sumptuous feast in honor of
+their guest.</p>
+<p>In a moment there was a busy scene. The heifer was brought up
+from the fields, and her horns were adorned with pure gold in
+hopes that Athena would see it and be pleased. The sailors came
+from the ship, except two who were left as guards. The heifer was
+slain and parts were burned as an offering to the goddess, and
+cakes and wine also were thrown into the flames to complete the
+sacrifice. They roasted the flesh on long iron forks with five
+prongs, and feasted upon it.</p>
+<p>Then Nestor said to his sons: "Bring now the chariot and
+horses and let our guest depart in search of news concerning his
+renowned father." The horses were soon harnessed to the car,
+which was stored with wine and bread and dainties fit for a
+prince. Telemachos climbed into the seat. Peisistratos took his
+place beside him and grasped the reins. The horses dashed off in
+high spirit, and Pylos was soon left in the distance. All day the
+horses sped along. At night they rested by the way and early the
+next morning went on again as swiftly as before. As the sun went
+down they found themselves in Sparta, the land of plenty, and at
+the gates of Menelaos, the king.</p>
+<p>Here they found many guests assembled at the wedding banquet
+of Hermione, the daughter of Menelaos. That day she had been
+given as a bride to Neoptolemos, the son of Achilles. A minstrel
+was playing a harp and singing, while two dancers performed
+graceful feats to give life to the feast.</p>
+<p>One of the attendants of Menelaos saw the strangers drive up,
+and stepped out to see who was coming. Then he hastened back to
+Menelaos and told him that two strangers of princely bearing were
+at the palace gate, and asked if he should unharness their horses
+or send them on their way. Menelaos was vexed that any of his
+servants should be so lax in hospitality, and told him he had
+acted like a foolish child, and reminded him of the gifts that
+had been showered on them when they wandered so long in foreign
+lands. And he bade him hasten to unharness the steeds, and give
+them oats and barley, and bid the strangers welcome to the
+feast.</p>
+<p>Telemachos and Peisistratos were amazed at the beauty of the
+palace. They bathed in the marble baths, rubbed themselves with
+oil and put on the splendid tunics that were brought them. After
+that they entered the great hall, where each was seated on a
+throne near the king. A handmaid brought a golden pitcher and a
+silver bowl for their hands, and a table was placed before them
+laden with choice food. When they had eaten enough, golden
+beakers of wine were handed them, and then the monarch gave his
+hand to each of them, saying: "Ye have come in good time, my
+friends. As soon as ye have finished your feast, I will ask your
+names and whence ye come, for ye look like sons of kings."</p>
+<p>As they sat there Telemachos, bending his head toward
+Peisistratos, said, in a low tone, so that he thought no one else
+would hear: "Surely, O son of Nestor, the Olympian home of Zeus
+himself could not be more glorious than this palace. See the gold
+and ivory, and shining brass. These things are beyond price in
+richness." Menelaos caught the words, although he spoke so low,
+and said: "My sons, there is no palace that can compare with the
+home of the gods. The riches which you look at in astonishment I
+collected while wandering in Egypt and in Crete. I find no
+pleasure in them, however, for I found my brother, King Agamemnon
+slain when I reached home. Would that the men who fought before
+Troy had their share of this wealth! I often weep and mourn for
+them in my palace, and am unable to eat or sleep on account of
+the misery I have brought upon my friends.</p>
+<p>"For none of them do I mourn so much as I do for Odysseus, who
+suffered the most of all on my behalf. I would gladly give all my
+wealth, if I only knew him to be safe. But we do not know whether
+he is dead or living. How much his old father must have grieved
+for him. How many tears his wife, Penelope, must have shed, and
+his high-minded son, Telemachos, what sorrow he has
+suffered."</p>
+<p>New despair filled the heart of Telemachos, and tears fell
+from his eyes. He held his purple mantle to hide his grief and
+wept in silence. When Menelaos saw this, he at once suspected
+that the young man was no other than the sorrowing son of
+Odysseus, and he felt perplexed for want of suitable words. He
+could not decide whether to question him about his father, or to
+wait and let the youth speak out of his own will.</p>
+<p>Just then Helen entered the hall from her high-roofed chamber,
+looking like a goddess in her dazzling beauty. She sat down at
+her husband's feet, while servants ran to bring the mat which she
+was weaving and the distaff filled with fine-spun purple thread.
+Her fingers flew over the dainty work while she questioned the
+king: "Didst thou ask the strangers their names? It is not
+possible that there can be any man so like to Odysseus except his
+son, as is this youth! I see him with astonishment. His father
+left him at home a little babe, when the Greeks went forth to war
+for my sake. Is it not true that this is Telemachos?"</p>
+<p>Menelaos replied: "My wife, I think thou hast spoken truly.
+The young man has the hands, the feet, and the features of
+Odysseus, and he cannot hide his grief at the mention of that
+hero's name." Peisistratos took up the word and said: "He is,
+indeed, the son of Odysseus, O king! My father, Nestor, sent me
+with him to inquire what you might know of the long-lost
+chieftain, and to beg you to give him advice, for he has to
+suffer great wrongs in his house and there is no one to assist
+him."</p>
+<p>Menelaos was heartily glad to hear that his guest was really
+Telemachos. But the remembrance of his old friend overcame him
+and he wept bitter tears. "I thought when I was in Troy," he
+said, "that I should one day welcome Odysseus to my home. I would
+have given him land and cities and brought to Sparta all his
+people and his wealth. Then we would always have lived close
+together and nothing could have parted us. But he has never
+returned." The tears fell from his eyes and Helen wept as well.
+Peisistratos then said to Menelaos: "Son of Atreus, my father
+says that thou art good and wise. Let us not, I entreat, continue
+this sad discourse, since this is a day that should not be given
+to lamentations. I lost a brother, also, at Troy. But we will
+honor these heroes at a proper time, with tears and by cutting
+off our locks. Let us not spoil the feast with mourning."</p>
+<p>They spent the rest of the day in making the festival as
+cheerful as if there were no grief to be hidden, and when night
+came the Argive Helen ordered the servants to prepare beds for
+them in the portico and cover them with tapestries, while she
+poured for them a soothing wine and dismissed them to their
+slumbers. The heralds led them to their couches, where they found
+a welcome rest.</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<center>
+<hr width="20%"></center>
+<br>
+<br>
+<a name="chap35" id="chap35"></a>
+<h3>CHAPTER XXXV</h3>
+<h4>MENELAOS RELATES HIS ADVENTURES</h4>
+<br>
+<p>The next morning Menelaos rose from his couch very early, put
+on his garments, hung his sword over his shoulder, laced his
+sandals, and went into his hall looking like a god. He sat down
+near Telemachos, and asked him to tell him frankly why he had
+come to Sparta.</p>
+<p>Telemachos then told him of the evil deeds of the suitors, and
+besought him to give him every possible clew to his father's
+whereabouts. Menelaos was indignant over the young man's
+wrongs.</p>
+<p>"Shame on the cowards who wish to rule over thy father's
+house," he said. "Let Odysseus return and he will tear them to
+pieces as a lion tears a young deer. Grant, O father Zeus, and
+Athena, and Apollo, that Odysseus may yet give those ungodly
+suitors a bitter wedding feast. But I will tell thee of my
+travels and what was told me by the Ancient Spirit of the
+sea.</p>
+<p>"It happened that the gods detained me many days in Egypt to
+sacrifice and do penance, for I had forgotten to make proper
+offerings to them. The island of Pharos lies just off the coast
+of Egypt. There I remained until the daughter of the Ancient Sea
+King, seeing my distress, came to my rescue.</p>
+<p>"My men and I had wandered over the island in search of food
+until we were nearly starved, when she discovered us, and told us
+that our efforts would be useless unless we consulted with her
+father. 'If thou canst ensnare him and hold him in thy grasp,'
+she said, 'he will tell thee how to reach thy home. He is a seer,
+and can tell thee all that has taken place there during thy
+absence. At noon-tide he comes out from the ocean caves covered
+with brine, and lies down among the sea-calves, rank with the
+smell of salt. He counts them five at a time, and then he
+stretches himself out among them and goes to sleep. He is very
+shrewd, and when thou hast caught him he will struggle and take
+all sorts of forms to escape thee. He will turn into a reptile,
+and into fire and then will change to water. But hold him fast,
+and when he looks as he did when first perceived by thee, ask him
+how to find thy home.'</p>
+<p>"The next morning, I sought the aged sea-god as I had been
+bidden. I took three old comrades whom I knew to be trusty, and
+we went down into the depths of the sea. The goddess brought us
+four fresh hides that had just been taken from sea-calves newly
+slaughtered, and we dressed ourselves in them to deceive her
+father. She scooped out places for us to lie in on the sands and
+we waited for him to come. The smell was sickening and beyond
+endurance, so the goddess put ambrosia under our noses. When the
+sun was highest in the heavens, the sea-calves came in groups and
+ranged themselves around in rows on the sand. The old seer came
+out and counted all, and did not notice our fraud. Then he lay
+down to sleep. At once, we rushed upon him and caught him. He
+began to take all kinds of shapes. First, he was a lion; then a
+serpent, a panther, a boar, a fountain of water, and a tree. We
+held on until he was tired of trying to escape.</p>
+<p>"At last he took his proper form, and began to question me.
+'Son of Atreus,' he said, 'who hath taught thee how to make me a
+prisoner? What is it thou wouldst know?' 'Tell me what god is
+angry with me, O Proteus,' I replied. 'Why am I detained on this
+island? Why can I not reach my home?' 'Thou didst not make
+acceptable sacrifices to Zeus,' said Proteus. 'And thou wilt
+never see thy home again until thou hast offered up a hundred
+oxen to the immortal gods.'</p>
+<p>"'I will perform that rite speedily, oh prophet,' I replied.
+'But tell me about my comrades in the Trojan war. Did they reach
+home in safety?'</p>
+<p>"Then Proteus told me all; how Ajax died amid his ships; how
+Agamemnon was slain in his own hall; and of Laertes' son he said
+that he had seen him sitting in a grotto on Calypso's Isle. There
+upon the rocks or at the ocean-side he weeps and mourns day after
+day, and gazes out upon the deep. His comrades are lost, and he
+has no ship with which to return to Ithaca. And after he had
+spoken he plunged into the sea while I returned to my ships,
+offered up the hundred oxen to Zeus and sailed for home. And now,
+Telemachos, I pray thee remain awhile with me, and I will dismiss
+thee with a chariot and swift horses, and a cup of priceless
+worth with which to pour libations to the gods."</p>
+<p>Telemachos took new courage when he heard that his father
+still lived, and begged that he might go back at once to Pylos to
+join his crew. In a moment all were busy in the palace of
+Menelaos preparing gifts and a feast that the youths might depart
+on the morrow.</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<center>
+<hr width="20%"></center>
+<br>
+<br>
+<a name="chap36" id="chap36"></a>
+<h3>CHAPTER XXXVI</h3>
+<h4>THE CONSPIRACY OF THE SUITORS</h4>
+<br>
+<p>One day while Telemachos was in Sparta, the guest of Menelaos,
+the suitors were more riotous than usual. They diverted
+themselves in the palace of Odysseus by throwing the discus and
+javelin. Only Antino&ouml;s and the handsome Eurymachos kept
+apart from them. Then No&euml;mon, who had given Telemachos his
+ship a few days before, approached them and said: "Antino&ouml;s,
+I would gladly know when Telemachos will return from Pylos. I
+lent him my ship, and I need it for I intend to go to Elis, where
+I have business."</p>
+<p>The suitors were completely taken by surprise, for they had
+not heard that Telemachos had gone to Pylos. They thought that he
+was out at the farm with his swineherd. Antino&ouml;s asked:
+"When did Telemachos sail, and what crew did he take? Did he use
+force in getting thy ship or didst thou lend it willingly?"</p>
+<p>"He was welcome to the ship," replied No&euml;mon. "Who would
+not have done such a service to a man who has had so much to
+endure? The young men who went with him belong to the best
+families of Ithaca." No&euml;mon could not get any news of
+Telemachos, so he went home; but the suitors conspired to kill
+Telemachos. They decided that Antino&ouml;s should man a ship
+with a crew of twenty men, and lie in ambush in the waters near
+Ithaca, in order that they might catch Telemachos, on his
+return.</p>
+<p>This wicked plot of the suitors was betrayed to the queen, by
+her faithful herald, Medon. Penelope was overcome with grief, and
+wept bitterly, and her loyal attendants mourned with her. "What
+new grief is this which befalls me now?" she said. "Is it not
+enough that death has robbed me of my husband? Am I also to lose
+my only child, without even having seen him before his departure?
+Alas! why did no one tell me he was going, that I might have
+prevented his journey? Haste ye to Laertes and tell him what has
+happened, that he may make some plan to upset this plot to
+destroy his heir, the son of Odysseus."</p>
+<p>Then Eurycleia, the nurse, tried to console her with these
+soothing words: "My daughter, I will not hide the truth from thee
+any longer. I gave Telemachos a generous supply of food and wine,
+all that he could use on his journey. And I promised him solemnly
+that I would not tell thee of his departure, since he had a great
+dread that thou wouldst weep and mourn, and spoil thy lovely face
+and injure thy health. Now dry thy tears and bathe, and put on
+fresh robes. Then go to thine altar in the upper chamber with thy
+maids. There pray to Athena and burn incense to her. Do not alarm
+good old Laertes needlessly."</p>
+<p>Penelope followed the old nurse's advice. She went to the
+altar, at the highest part of the house, and there she prayed to
+Athena: "Hear me, daughter of Zeus! If ever my beloved husband
+has sacrificed to thee the fat limbs of oxen or sheep, and has
+built thee altars, save my son, Telemachos, and destroy the
+suitors, who fain would destroy him." The goddess heard her
+prayer, and sent sweet slumber and a pleasant dream to assuage
+her grief. In her sleep she saw her sister, who said to her: "Be
+of good cheer, Penelope; no harm will come to thy son, for a god
+goes with him." To her, the wise Penelope, yet dreaming,
+answered: "My sister, why is it thou hast never come to me
+before? Thy home is far away. I weep because I have lost my noble
+husband, and now his enemies conspire to slay my only son." The
+dream replied: "Take heart. Do not fear. Athena sent me to tell
+thee that she will protect thy son."</p>
+<p>"Oh, tell me," cried the queen, in her dreams, "tell me if my
+husband lives, since thou art sent by a goddess." But the shadow
+vanished through the closed door, and mingled with the air.
+Penelope awoke with a glad heart, cheered by the prophetic
+dream.</p>
+<p>In the meantime the suitors spoke among themselves, for they
+were too foolish to understand the spirit of the queen. "Surely,"
+they said, "Penelope is making ready for her wedding. She does
+not suspect that we have planned to kill her son." "Do not
+deceive yourselves, my friends," said Antino&ouml;s. "Be silent
+and act." Then he chose twenty men, and they went down to a
+well-fitted ship, and took their places at the oars. They waited
+until it was dark, when they quietly rowed out into a narrow
+strait, through which, they thought, Telemachos was sure to sail
+on his return, and there they waited.</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<center>
+<hr width="20%"></center>
+<br>
+<br>
+<a name="chap37" id="chap37"></a>
+<h3>CHAPTER XXXVII</h3>
+<h4>TELEMACHOS RETURNS TO ITHACA</h4>
+<br>
+<p>Having encouraged Penelope, the goddess Athena sped to Sparta,
+where she found Telemachos, with Nestor's son, asleep upon the
+porch. She stood beside his bed, and warned him that he ought to
+return home, since Penelope's father had given her counsel to wed
+the richest of the suitors, and had promised a generous dower.
+"Do not delay," the goddess said to him; "no one can tell what a
+woman will do to help the man she is to marry.</p>
+<p>"And also beware of the suitors, whom thou hast offended. They
+lie in wait in the narrow passage between Samos and Ithaca. They
+hope to catch thee on thy way home and slay thee. Do not go that
+way. Sail only when it is dark. A god will watch over thee. When
+thou dost come to the first harbor in Ithaca, disembark, and let
+thy crew go on in the ship and take it back to the town. But thou
+shalt make thy way to the hut of thy loyal swineherd, and he will
+take tidings of thy safe return to thy mother."</p>
+<p>Athena said this and vanished. Telemachos turned to
+Peisistratos and said: "Let us arise and set forth on our journey
+with all haste, oh son of Nestor." But Peisistratos begged him to
+wait until it was fairly light. Menelaos had slept lightly, he
+was so agitated with the great event of seeing his beloved
+comrade's son, and he rose as soon as it was light. Telemachos
+heard him approaching, and hastily threw on his tunic and cloak
+and went to meet him.</p>
+<p>Telemachos urged a hasty departure and Menelaos did not think
+it proper to try to detain him. He said: "A host is hateful who
+is too affectionate. It is as wrong to keep a guest who is in a
+hurry to go as it is to thrust a stranger out when he wants to
+stay. Let me bring thee costly gifts, and when thou hast had thy
+morning meal I will hasten thee on thy way." The car was heaped
+with gifts, a golden goblet, a silver beaker, a robe that
+glistened with hand-wrought embroidery, the work of Helen, a
+goblet of silver with golden lips. Peisistratos gazed with wonder
+at their beauty as he placed them in the car.</p>
+<p>They washed their hands in a silver bowl and ate and drank
+from the bounty which had been placed before them. Then they
+mounted the car which had been brought to the palace gates.
+Nestor's son took the reins, Menelaos poured wine on the ground,
+an offering to the gods for their safety and prosperity, and off
+they sped over the plain. Two birds flew on before them, an eagle
+that had clutched a goose and bore it off in its talons, a sign
+that Odysseus would come and put an end to the suitors, and this
+omen cheered Telemachos.</p>
+<p>All day the horses bounded on shaking their splendid harness.
+The son of Nestor plied the lash. At night they rested in a
+friendly lodge and the second day they reached Pylos. They drove
+directly to the ship, lest Nestor, in his great love for his
+guest, should detain him. With an offering and a prayer to Athena
+he set sail. A prospering breeze swept over the sea and bore them
+rapidly along. At night Telemachos landed at the nearest port and
+sent the crew on to take the ship to the town.</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<center>
+<hr width="20%"></center>
+<br>
+<br>
+<a name="chap38" id="chap38"></a>
+<h3>CHAPTER XXXVIII</h3>
+<h4>TELEMACHOS AND THE SWINEHERD</h4>
+<br>
+<p>When daylight appeared Odysseus and Eumaios rose from their
+beds and sent the serving men out into the fields with their
+swine, but they themselves remained at home and prepared
+breakfast. In a little while they heard footsteps outside. The
+dogs pricked up their ears and wagged their tails without
+barking.</p>
+<p>Odysseus, perceiving this, said to the swineherd: "There must
+be some friend of thine coming, since the dogs do not bark." The
+words had hardly passed his lips when Telemachos entered the hut.
+Eumaios started to his feet and hastened to welcome his young
+master. He took him in his arms as a father would a son who had
+been away a long time, and kissed his face and hands.</p>
+<p>Tears dropped from his eyes and he said: "My dear Telemachos,
+I did not dare to hope ever to behold thee again. Come in that I
+may rejoice with all my heart at seeing thee once more enter my
+cabin after thy return from a strange country. Seldom dost thou
+come to see thy servants, for thou dost live in town, where thou
+must watch the suitor train consume thy wealth day by day."</p>
+<p>To this Telemachos made answer: "This is quite true, my
+father; but I come here to learn of thee how matters are at the
+palace. Is my mother there, or has some wooer won her for a
+bride?"</p>
+<p>"Thy mother is still at home," replied the sturdy swineherd.
+"She has a loyal heart, but she wastes her life in weeping."
+Saying this he took the lance from the young prince, who had come
+farther into the cabin. Odysseus arose to give him his seat, but
+Telemachos said to him: "Keep thy seat, stranger, I will sit
+elsewhere."</p>
+<p>Odysseus sat down again. The swineherd took an armful of twigs
+and covered it with fleeces, and Telemachos seated himself upon
+it. Next he brought bread and meat and set them before his young
+master, who, when he had eaten, asked his faithful servant who
+the stranger was and whence he came.</p>
+<p>"The stranger says that he came from Crete," answered Eumaios.
+"Lately he has run away from a ship where he was robbed, and has
+come here. I leave him to thee, however; do with him as thou dost
+like." "Thy words do not please me, Eumaios," said Telemachos.
+"How can I receive a stranger in my house, since I cannot protect
+him there if any of the godless wooers insult him. It would be
+better for him to stay here; and lest he be a burden to you I
+will send out food and clothes for him, and I will help him to go
+wherever he wishes."</p>
+<p>To him the sagacious Odysseus replied: "My friend, I hear with
+grief the story of thy wrongs. Art thou willing to let this go
+on? If I were as young as thou art I would lose my life before I
+would suffer such things&mdash;thy guests insulted, thy servants
+beaten, thy riches thrown away, thy food consumed by
+gluttons."</p>
+<p>"Thy words are sharp, dear stranger, and I shall answer them
+with the truth," said Telemachos. "Thou dost not yet understand
+that there is a great crowd of suitors; not simply five or ten.
+What can I do single-handed against such a multitude? But you,
+Eumaios, hasten to the city, secretly, and tell my mother that I
+have returned and am staying here. Then come back at once and let
+no one know where I am, for the lovers are plotting a bloody
+death for me." The swineherd hastily bound his sandals on to his
+feet, took his staff, and hurried off.</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<center>
+<hr width="20%"></center>
+<br>
+<br>
+<a name="chap39" id="chap39"></a>
+<h3>CHAPTER XXXIX</h3>
+<h4>TELEMACHOS RECOGNIZES ODYSSEUS</h4>
+<br>
+<p>It was not long after Eumaios had left the cabin when Athena,
+in the guise of a beautiful woman, appeared to Odysseus and
+beckoned him to come outside. Telemachos was opposite to her, but
+he did not see her, for the gods are not visible to all. Only
+Odysseus and the dogs were conscious of her presence. The dogs
+did not bark but ran into a corner of the cabin, crouching and
+whining. Odysseus left the room and stood before the goddess, who
+spoke to him in these words: "Son of Laertes, of noble birth and
+great wisdom, make thyself known to thy son. Tell him all the
+truth. Advise with him how to put an end to that insolent crowd
+of suitors. I shall never be far from thee myself and will help
+thee. I long to see them attacked."</p>
+<p>When she had finished speaking she touched Odysseus with her
+golden wand. That touch changed him instantly into a handsome,
+well-made man in the full vigor of robust manhood. His rags
+became seemly garments. His cheeks flushed with renewed health
+and the heavy beard on his chin grew dark again. After the
+goddess had done this she vanished and Odysseus went back into
+the lodge. His son glanced at him in amazement and then turned
+his eyes away from him lest he should irreverently look upon a
+god.</p>
+<p>"Stranger," he said, "I think thou art an immortal whose home
+is in the heavens, for thou hast been transformed in looks and
+garb. Let me bring a sacrifice and offer it to thee, together
+with beautiful gifts, and perhaps thou wilt be gracious to us and
+keep us from harm."</p>
+<p>Odysseus replied: "Nay, I am not a god, nor like the gods. I
+am thy father, he for whom thou hast mourned and endured so many
+sufferings." Saying this he kissed his son and wept.</p>
+<p>"I pray thee do not deceive me," said Telemachos. "Thou surely
+art a deity and not my father. No mortal could change from a
+ragged old beggar to a young and stately man in a moment."</p>
+<p>Odysseus answered him: "Telemachos, it is not like a son to
+gaze upon thy father with astonishment. No other Odysseus will
+ever come into this cabin. I am thy father. I have wandered
+twenty years in foreign lands, and now have come to my own home.
+Thou hast seen a miracle which Athena wrought, for she makes me
+look like a beggar or a king as she pleases. The gods have all
+power to put men in high places or to humble them."</p>
+<p>Odysseus sat down and his dear son approached him and threw
+his arms around him in a loving embrace, and together they wept
+tears of joy. At last Telemachos inquired: "Dear father, in what
+ship hast thou come, and what sailors brought thee hither? Thou
+couldst not have come on foot."</p>
+<p>"The Ph&aelig;acians brought me across the sea and left me
+sleeping on the shore in Ithaca," replied Odysseus. "And they
+gave me rich presents of gold, and silver, and brass, and
+embroidered garments hand-woven from their own looms.</p>
+<p>"These have I hidden, and Athena has sent me to advise with
+thee how best to destroy the arrogant crew of suitors that so
+long has robbed my house and vexed my wife. Tell me now how many
+there are and what kind of men, so that I can judge whether we
+two alone may attack them, or whether we need the help of
+others."</p>
+<p>"My father," answered Telemachos, "thy sweet fame has
+resounded through our halls, my whole life long. How often have I
+heard of thy courage and the strength of thy powerful arm. But
+how is it possible for us two to fight against such a multitude?
+Fifty-two of the wooers come from one town with six servants.
+Twenty-four come from Samos, and twenty more from Zakynthos, and
+twelve from Ithaca. If we attack them all I fear that we shall
+come to grief. It is better for us to look around and find an
+ally."</p>
+<p>Again Odysseus made reply: "Dear son, take courage. Zeus and
+Athena, most powerful of the gods, are on our side. Early
+to-morrow thou must go to the city and mingle with the suitors.
+The swineherd shall lead me disguised as an old beggar to my
+palace. Keep down thy wrath if the wooers speak insultingly to
+me. Do not resent it except to administer a gentle reproof,
+though they strike me with their spears and abuse me with bad
+language. The day of their death is at hand. When Athena gives me
+the sign, I will nod to thee and thou shalt remove my weapons
+from the great hall to an upper room. Tell the suspicious suitors
+that the arms gather too much dust where they now hang on the
+walls, and besides that, a god has warned thee that in their
+drunken brawls, the wooers may harm each other. Let no one know
+of my arrival, not even Laertes, Eumaios, or my wife,
+Penelope."</p>
+<p>All day the illustrious father and his son conversed and laid
+their plans. At noon they killed a yearling pig, and roasted it
+and made a hearty lunch. Once more Athena touched Odysseus with
+her wand and changed him into a poor old beggar, that Eumaios
+should not recognize him. At evening the swineherd returned. On
+entering his cabin he told his young master that the suitors had
+learned of his safe return to Ithaca. Then he prepared a supper
+for them, and they ate and drank to their hearts' content, when
+they retired to rest.</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<center>
+<hr width="20%"></center>
+<br>
+<br>
+<a name="chap40" id="chap40"></a>
+<h3>CHAPTER XL</h3>
+<h4>TELEMACHOS RETURNS TO THE PALACE</h4>
+<br>
+<p>Early the next morning Telemachos rose, tied his shining
+sandals under his feet, took his spear and stood ready to go to
+the city. He called the swineherd to him, and said: "Eumaios, I
+am going back to the town to see my mother. I know that she will
+not cease to be anxious about me until she sees me in my own
+home. Take this stranger there, too, where he may beg, and thus
+supply his wants. I cannot receive every poor man into my own
+house; my trials are too great. It makes no difference to me
+whether he likes it or not. I am forced to tell the truth about
+it."</p>
+<p>"My friend," said Odysseus, "I do not care to stay any longer.
+I think myself it is better for me to go to the city, where a
+beggar may have a fair chance. I am too old to be of service
+here. Go thy way, my son, and let thy servant lead me hence, as
+thou hast commanded. But let me first warm me at the fire, for I
+am cold and the way is long."</p>
+<p>Then Telemachos went out of the lodge and sped toward the
+city. His old nurse, Eurycleia, was the first to see him, and she
+ran out to welcome him, and the other servants came around
+rejoicing. Next came Penelope, as beautiful as Artemis, and threw
+her arms about her son, and kissed him on his brow and eyes.
+"Hast thou indeed returned, Telemachos, my son? I never hoped to
+see thee again. Tell me about thy father. Hast thou any news of
+him? What has happened? What hast thou seen?" So did the queen
+greet her son.</p>
+<p>"Dear mother, do not waken my grief again," Telemachos
+replied. "I have barely escaped a cruel death. But go to thy bath
+and put fresh garments on, and then pray to the gods and promise
+them great sacrifices if Zeus will avenge our wrongs." Penelope
+willingly did her son's bidding, but Telemachos betook himself to
+the market place to show himself to the people.</p>
+<p>When Telemachos came into the public square the suitors
+thronged around him with smooth speeches, but in their hearts
+they kept on plotting his death. He wanted them to see that he
+was in Ithaca, but he did not care to be in their company, so he
+took his place among some friends of his father. One of the crew
+came up to ask where he might deposit the splendid gifts of
+Menelaos, and Telemachos told him to hide them until the suitors
+had been defeated or had won the victory.</p>
+<p>Then Telemachos came back to the palace in company with a
+stranger who had joined his crew at Pylos, and they sat down near
+the queen, who was spinning. The servants brought them wine and
+food, and after they had eaten, Penelope begged that her son
+would recite to her the story of his journey. In the meantime
+Odysseus and Eumaios had started for the city. When they reached
+the spring where the citizens of the city went for water, they
+encountered Melanthios, a goatherd, driving goats into town. Two
+servants followed, helping him. As soon as he saw Eumaios and his
+guest, he said: "Look! There is one knave leading another.
+Verily, the gods bring like and like together. Thou miserable
+swineherd, whither dost thou take that worthless beggar, this
+vagabond who rubs his shoulders on every door-post, asking for
+crusts, eating gluttonously, and telling tales of woe?</p>
+<p>"Just hand him over to me to guard my stables and clean my
+yard, and I will give him whey to drink, which will fatten his
+limbs. But work does not suit such a fellow. He would rather
+ramble idly about and beg for food to fill his empty stomach. Let
+him once come to the palace of Odysseus and the guests that woo
+the queen will fling footstools at him." With that Melanthios
+kicked him in the thigh. Odysseus hesitated a moment and
+considered whether it were better to slay the goatherd with a
+blow from his staff, or whether he should submit to the indignity
+in silence. The latter seemed the better course.</p>
+<p>But Eumaios grew angry and said: "Melanthios, wait till
+Odysseus returns. He will give thee thy deserts, thou villain!
+All day long dost thou loaf in the city, leaving thy master's
+flocks to take care of themselves." Melanthios answered him:
+"Just hear what this cur has to say! I shall take him off and
+sell him for a slave some day. Would that Telemachos might die
+this moment under the hands of the suitors, and go down to Hades
+to join his father!" With these words he hurried off to the house
+of his master where he sat down among the crowd of wooers.</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<center>
+<hr width="20%"></center>
+<br>
+<br>
+<a name="chap41" id="chap41"></a>
+<h3>CHAPTER XLI</h3>
+<h4>ODYSSEUS IS RECOGNIZED BY HIS DOG</h4>
+<br>
+<p>After awhile Odysseus and Eumaios came to the house. As they
+drew near they waited a little to listen to the music, for a
+minstrel had begun a song, and while singing he played the lyre.
+"Surely, Eumaios," said Odysseus, "anyone would know that this is
+the palace of a king. See how stately the structure is, and how
+spacious the court beyond the massive gates! And there are walls
+and towers and countless rooms. No one but Odysseus could have
+built such a fortress. I hear the sound of the lute and perceive
+the tempting odor of roasting meat, and there are crowds of
+guests coming and going. There must be a banquet within."</p>
+<p>Eumaios replied: "True, my friend, this is the house of
+Odysseus. Now, let us consider what we are to do. Shall I take
+the lead and go in first, or wilt thou go first and let me
+follow?" Odysseus, the sagacious, made answer: "Go in before me,
+and I will follow by and by."</p>
+<p>They were standing near the stable doors while talking. The
+filth from the stalls of the mules and oxen had been piled there
+by slovenly servants, who should have removed it day by day to
+fertilize the fields. There, on the unwholesome heap, a poor,
+neglected dog was lying, devoured by noxious insects and vermin.
+It was Argus, whom Odysseus himself had raised before he went to
+Troy. In times gone by, the young men of Ithaca had made him most
+useful in the chase. He had scented the stag, the hare, and the
+wild goat for them many a time. But now that he was old no one
+cared for him, and he was left to die.</p>
+<p>As soon as he saw Odysseus drawing near he pricked up his ears
+and wagged his tail. But he had not strength enough to get up and
+come to his master, although he moved as if he would gladly have
+done so. Odysseus saw this and burst into tears, but he turned
+his face away in hopes that Eumaios would not notice it.</p>
+<p>But the good swineherd saw it and so Odysseus questioned him:
+"Eumaios, what dog is this that lies upon this filth? He is well
+built, and surely is of a fine stock. Is he fleet in the chase or
+a mere house-dog kept for show?"</p>
+<p>"This dog, stranger," answered Eumaios, "belongs to my dear
+master. If thou hadst only seen him before Odysseus went to Troy
+thou wouldst have been astonished at his swiftness. He performed
+wonders in the chase. No wild animal was able to escape him. But
+his master has died far from home, and the careless servants will
+not even throw him a bone."</p>
+<p>The swineherd passed on into the hall where the suitors sat,
+but Odysseus stood looking at the faithful beast, the only
+creature that had recognized him. The joy of seeing his old
+master was too great, and Argus sank down and died.</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<center>
+<hr width="20%"></center>
+<br>
+<br>
+<a name="chap42" id="chap42"></a>
+<h3>CHAPTER XLII</h3>
+<h4>ODYSSEUS COMES, A BEGGAR, TO HIS OWN HOUSE</h4>
+<br>
+<p>Telemachos was the first to notice the swineherd entering the
+hall, and he made a sign for him to come and sit by him.
+Presently Odysseus, too, entered in the guise of a forlorn old
+beggar, and sat down near the door. Telemachos handed Eumaios a
+whole loaf of bread and as much meat as he could hold in his two
+hands, and bade him take it to the beggar. And he told him to
+tell the poor old man to ask a pittance from every suitor
+present.</p>
+<p>Odysseus took the food, and after thanking Telemachos, prayed
+to the gods to give him everything good. Then he placed his food
+in a wallet on the ground, and began to eat, while a minstrel
+entertained the assembly with sweet music. When the bard ceased
+his singing, the suitors began a noisy conversation, and having a
+signal from Athena, Odysseus arose and went from one wooer to
+another asking alms. Each one gave him something, and asked him
+who he was and whence he came.</p>
+<p>Melanthios, the goatherd, and the favorite of Eurymachos,
+wishing to make mischief, told them that Eumaios had brought the
+old man along but did not, himself, know who he was.
+Antino&ouml;s hearing this, said: "Eumaios, foolish swineherd,
+why didst thou bring that vile beggar here? Are there not beggars
+enough to eat up the wealth of thy master without him?"</p>
+<p>Eumaios answered him most courteously: "Antino&ouml;s, though
+thou art high born thou art not well bred. Thou hast always
+spoken contemptuously to all the servants of Odysseus, but
+chiefly to me. Beggars come as they like. No one expects to
+invite them. Only people of rank are invited to a feast. But I
+heed not thy abuse so long as I can serve the wise Penelope and
+her powerful son."</p>
+<p>Then Telemachos, seeing that a quarrel was brewing,
+interposed: "Hold thy peace, Eumaios, make no words with
+Antino&ouml;s. He takes delight in ugly words. Nothing pleases
+him more than to stir up ill-feeling. Surely Antino&ouml;s, thou
+art a father to me when thou dost bid me turn a stranger into the
+street and insult him. Pray let the old beggar approach thee and
+receive a pittance, for thou shouldst not feast on the food
+belonging to others and never bestow any gifts. All the suitors
+except thyself have given him a dole."</p>
+<p>Antino&ouml;s made response: "Telemachos, thou boaster, if
+each suitor would bestow upon him such a gift as I will make, he
+would not come here again very soon." With that he seized a
+footstool and held it up where all could see it. The beggar
+approached him with a pitiful story of wanderings and hardships.
+Antino&ouml;s spurned him saying: "What demon hath brought this
+chattering beggar to spoil our pleasure? Get thee gone, or thou
+wilt soon be much the worse for coming. Thou art a bold and
+impudent old beggar."</p>
+<p>Odysseus withdrew, saying as he went: "How strange it is that
+so fine a form can conceal so foul a mind. Thou wouldst not give
+even salt to a suppliant, nor a crust of bread from thine own
+table, without begrudging it. But thou dost feed gluttonously at
+the table of an absent chief." Antino&ouml;s grew more angry, and
+rejoined: "Thou insolent beggar, thou shalt not leave this hall
+unpunished." With that he raised the footstool and struck
+Odysseus on the shoulder. The chief stood like a rock, not in the
+least disturbed. But he made menacing motions with his head and
+retired to the door, where he put down his wallet and lifted up
+his voice to call down vengeance from the gods.</p>
+<p>Antino&ouml;s spoke again with insulting words, and one of the
+guests rebuked him. He was so angry, however, that he did not
+heed it. Telemachos saw the blow, and could hardly restrain his
+anger. Word was carried to Penelope that a penniless stranger had
+been insulted and struck in her halls, and she said to her maids:
+"I would that Apollo with his bow might strike Antino&ouml;s
+down."</p>
+<p>Then she called the swineherd to her apartment and said:
+"Bring the beggar hither. I should like to speak with him. It may
+be that he has seen Odysseus, for he seems to have wandered
+far."</p>
+<p>The swineherd took the queen's message to the stranger, but he
+begged that he might not comply with the request until the
+suitors had left the house. "I knew Odysseus well," he said, "but
+I dread these violent men. Therefore, ask Penelope to let me wait
+until sunset when I can sit by the fire and warm myself, and tell
+her all that she shall inquire."</p>
+<p>The queen thought the beggar's answer was a prudent one, and
+was satisfied. At sundown the swineherd left the palace to return
+to his hut. The suitors kept up the revel until late in the
+evening, and then went home leaving Odysseus in his own
+palace.</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<center>
+<hr width="20%"></center>
+<br>
+<br>
+<a name="chap43" id="chap43"></a>
+<h3>CHAPTER XLIII</h3>
+<h4>CONVERSATION OF ODYSSEUS AND PENELOPE</h4>
+<br>
+<p>After the revellers had left the palace, Odysseus said to his
+son: "Now is the time to hide all these weapons where the suitors
+cannot find them, when their hour of need shall come. If they ask
+for them tell them that the arms were losing their polish in
+these smoky rooms, and also that the gods had warned thee to
+remove them since some dispute might arise in which the wooers
+heated with wine and anger would attack each other."</p>
+<p>Telemachos at once obeyed. He called his old nurse to see that
+the servants were in their own apartments and the doors of the
+palace made fast while he removed the arms to an upper room. Then
+he retired to rest, leaving Odysseus sitting by the hearth in the
+large dining-hall awaiting the arrival of Penelope. She was not
+long in coming. Her maids placed a chair, inlaid with silver and
+ivory, for her near the fire, and threw a large woolly rug before
+it for her feet.</p>
+<p>The queen, stately as a goddess, took her seat there while her
+maids carried away the dishes and food left by the suitors. They
+heaped great logs on the fire. Then Melantho, an impudent maid,
+said to Odysseus: "Art thou here, thou beggar! Begone, or I will
+take a firebrand and drive thee out!" Odysseus rejoined: "Such is
+the fate of beggars. They must wander far and take abuse. It is
+true that I am ragged, but I am not unclean. Once I was rich and
+had my own palace. I often gave to beggars and I had many
+servants. But it pleased the gods to make me poor. Thou pert
+woman, surely the queen, Penelope, never taught thee, and thy bad
+conduct will not escape the eye of Telemachos."</p>
+<p>Penelope saw and heard all this and the high-breeding of the
+beggar did not escape her keen notice. She turned to the saucy
+maid and said: "Shame on thee, thou bold creature. Thou dost know
+full well that this stranger has remained here at my own request,
+that I might inquire if he knows aught of my husband."</p>
+<p>Then the queen asked her matron to spread a rug for the poor
+old man. Odysseus sat down and Penelope began to question him.
+"Who art thou, stranger?" she asked. "Where is thy home? Whence
+hast thou come?" Odysseus answered her: "My gracious queen, I am
+the son of a king and I come from Crete. I am a man of sorrows
+and have wandered far. But do not ask me of these things, for I
+do not wish to lament over unhappy days.</p>
+<p>"Strong ties of friendship bind me to Odysseus. Twenty years
+ago, when he went to Troy, I received him as a guest in my house,
+because contrary winds and a stormy sea had thrown him upon my
+island. I led him to my palace and gave him the best of food and
+wine. Twelve days he remained with me, both himself and his
+companions. On the thirteenth a favorable wind arose and they
+went on to Troy."</p>
+<p>Odysseus kept on inventing one tale after another, such as
+might seem probable, and the tears rolled down Penelope's cheeks.
+Odysseus could have wept, too, when he saw how deep her loyalty
+and affection were rooted. The lady had no doubt of the genuine
+character of her guest, but she cautiously strove to prove the
+truth of his words, so she questioned him yet farther, asking him
+to describe Odysseus and his comrades&mdash;how he looked and
+what dress he wore.</p>
+<p>Odysseus responded truthfully: "He wore a cloak of purple
+wool, with two clasps of gold, hand-wrought. The pattern showed a
+hound struggling with a spotted fawn, intent to kill it. Besides
+this he had on a delicate tunic of shining cloth, spun,
+doubtless, by his queen, for the women gazed at it in wonder.</p>
+<p>"He was accompanied by a herald named Eurybates, a hunchback
+with a dark complexion, but Odysseus seemed to value him above
+all the rest, for he was a clever and a faithful man."</p>
+<p>When Odysseus had finished speaking, Penelope exclaimed, with
+a burst of passionate grief: "Stranger, I was moved to pity when
+I first saw thee in my halls, but thou shalt be held as an
+honored guest from this time forward. Thou hast spoken truly of
+the garments, for I shaped the folds in them myself and put on
+the clasps. Alas! I shall never see him again. It was a cruel
+fate that took him from me."</p>
+<p>Odysseus was deeply moved, and tried to speak consoling words.
+"Weep not," he said, "for grief will wear away thy beauty and thy
+health. Odysseus lives and will return. I met him lately on his
+homeward way, laden with wealth which he had gathered in the
+country of the Thesprotians.</p>
+<p>"He will come alone, for his comrades were destroyed off the
+island of Trinacria, for they had slain the oxen of the Sun. He
+would have arrived here before me, only that he stopped to
+consult an oracle whether to come secretly or not. He is safe and
+will not long remain away from thee. Here I take the great oath
+that Odysseus will come within a month."</p>
+<p>The wise queen answered him: "I would that thy words might
+prove true, O stranger, but the thought is deep in my heart that
+Odysseus is no more. My maidens, lead this guest to the bath and
+spread a couch for him where he can rest quietly, and to-morrow
+he shall share the morning meal with Telemachos."</p>
+<p>Then said Odysseus to her: "Fair queen, I care not for fine
+covers and soft beds. Wilt thou permit me to lie down on the
+floor near the fire, as I am used to do? I care not for the bath,
+either, unless there is some old servant who knows how to give a
+foot-bath to aged feet."</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<center>
+<hr width="20%"></center>
+<br>
+<br>
+<a name="chap44" id="chap44"></a>
+<h3>CHAPTER XLIV</h3>
+<h4>EURYCLEIA RECOGNIZES ODYSSEUS</h4>
+<br>
+<p>Penelope admired the prudence of the poor old beggar, and
+called Eurycleia, bidding her to bathe the stranger's feet as
+carefully as if they were the feet of her master. The nurse
+filled a bright brass basin with warm water and knelt down to
+execute the command of her royal mistress, saying: "My poor
+Odysseus! My heart is sore for him. Who knows but he may be
+wandering like thee, weary and footsore! Perhaps he is an object
+of ridicule among serving-women who will not suffer him to come
+near the bath.</p>
+<p>"Stranger, I will wash thy feet for the sake of my absent
+master, and to please that gracious queen who has commanded me to
+do so; but most of all because thou art in need of it through
+suffering. Surely I never saw anyone who bore so close a
+resemblance to my lord as thou."</p>
+<p>Odysseus replied: "It has often been said that I look like
+Odysseus by those who knew us both, O aged dame." Then he turned
+his feet away from the light, for fear that Eurycleia would
+recognize a scar and discover who he was. But it was in vain, for
+as soon as she passed her hand over it she knew it. It was a scar
+that came where a wild boar had once torn the flesh when Odysseus
+was hunting on Parnassos.</p>
+<p>The old servant was so overcome with joy that she laughed and
+cried at the same time. She let his foot fall against the basin,
+which was upset with a loud clang, while the water was spilled
+over the floor. She laid her hand on Odysseus' beard, and said in
+a voice trembling with emotion: "Dear son, thou art Odysseus. I
+knew thee the moment that I touched the scar."</p>
+<p>Then Eurycleia turned to tell Penelope that her lord had come,
+for the queen had not seen the upsetting of the basin. But
+Odysseus laid his finger on the old servant's lips, and with his
+left hand drew her closer and said: "Be silent. Let no one know
+that I have come, for I must slay the suitors by stratagem. If
+they know that I am here they will prevent me and destroy us
+all."</p>
+<p>The loyal handmaid arose to bring another basin of water. She
+bathed his feet and anointed them. And he moved to the fire and
+took his seat, while he pulled his ragged garments over the scar
+to hide it, lest it might betray him.</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<center>
+<hr width="20%"></center>
+<br>
+<br>
+<a name="chap45" id="chap45"></a>
+<h3>CHAPTER XLV</h3>
+<h4>PENELOPE'S DREAM</h4>
+<br>
+<p>When Odysseus was again seated by the hearth, Penelope began
+to speak to him further: "Stranger, one more question I must ask
+thee, and then I will leave thee, for the hour of sleep is near.
+All day long I keep at my tasks to try to forget my grief, for
+the gods have visited me with sore misfortunes. I teach my maids
+to spin and weave and care for the palace. But when night comes
+strange dreams flit through my mind, and new sorrows spring up in
+my heart.</p>
+<p>"There are from day to day assembled in my home all the young
+men of the best families of Ithaca and the neighboring isles, who
+insist that I shall choose one of them for a husband. But as I am
+not willing to comply, they remain in my house and destroy my
+property. I am not able to drive them out, and do not know how to
+help myself. Listen to a dream I had the other night. Perhaps
+thou canst explain it to me.</p>
+<p>"I dreamt that there was a flock of twenty geese in my
+court-yard, and they picked corn out of the water and ate
+greedily. Suddenly an eagle swooped down upon them from above and
+broke their necks and tore them to pieces. Then he flew off,
+leaving them scattered about the yard. I bitterly bewailed the
+loss of my geese, and so did my maids. After awhile the eagle
+came back and, perching on the roof, said to me: 'Take courage,
+Penelope, this is no dream. The geese are the wooers, but I, the
+eagle, am thy husband, and I have come to kill those impudent
+robbers that vex thee.'"</p>
+<p>Odysseus answered her: "The eagle gave the right explanation,
+O lady. The dream could not have had any other meaning. Odysseus
+will come and slay the wooers, and not one shall escape him."</p>
+<p>"Dreams do not always come to pass," rejoined Penelope, "but I
+heartily wish that this might be fulfilled. Be patient a little
+longer, for I have one thing more to say. To-morrow is a decisive
+day, for it may be the one that drives me from the palace. I
+shall propose a contest for my hand. Twenty years ago Odysseus
+set up twelve axes, one behind the other, in the court. Through
+the rings of the handles he shot an arrow, although he stood at a
+great distance. I will challenge the suitors to take the same bow
+and send the arrow through the rings as Odysseus did. He who
+succeeds shall lead me forth a bride, to his own palace."</p>
+<p>Odysseus responded: "Do not let the contest be put off.
+Odysseus will be at hand a long time before any of the suitors
+can bend his bow."</p>
+<p>"Thy words, O stranger, are comforting," said Penelope. "I
+could sit and listen to thee all night. But as thou art in need
+of rest, I will retire to my apartment, and the maids shall
+spread rugs before the fire for thee." Penelope, having said
+this, went up to her room, her maids following her, and she wept,
+thinking of her royal lord, until Athena closed her eyes in
+sleep.</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<center>
+<hr width="20%"></center>
+<br>
+<br>
+<a name="chap46" id="chap46"></a>
+<h3>CHAPTER XLVI</h3>
+<h4>ATHENA ENCOURAGES ODYSSEUS</h4>
+<br>
+<p>Odysseus was lying on his bed, but he could not sleep, for he
+was thinking how he might destroy the suitors. Suddenly Athena
+appeared to him, and said: "Odysseus, why dost thou lie awake?
+Thou art in thine own house and near thy wife and child." "All
+this is true, O goddess," answered Odysseus. "But I am only one
+and the suitors are many. How shall I, single-handed, meet this
+multitude of men?"</p>
+<p>"Sleep in peace, Odysseus," returned Athena. "To lie awake
+saps the life and strength of men. The time has come when all thy
+sufferings shall end. The gods protect thee and they are stronger
+than armed warriors." Thus spoke the goddess, and, closing his
+eyelids with sweet slumber, she flew up to Olympos.</p>
+<p>While Odysseus was sleeping, his wife had waked, and, sitting
+on her bed, addressed a prayer to Artemis: "Rather let me die, O
+goddess, than become the wife of any other man than Odysseus. The
+very thought vexes me day and night. Just now I had a dream. I
+seemed to see Odysseus just as he was when he started out for
+Troy. I was so glad that I could not believe that it was not a
+reality."</p>
+<p>She prayed aloud, and soon daylight appeared. Odysseus heard
+the voice and it filled his heart with anxiety. He arose and
+hastily placed the rugs on which he had slept on a bench in the
+palace. Then he went out into the open air. Telemachos had risen
+also, and he went forth to the market-place. Eurycleia called the
+servants together and ordered them to be quick about their work,
+for a festival was to be celebrated that day and the wooers would
+come early.</p>
+<p>There was a busy time. The menials obeyed, some bringing
+water, some sweeping the floors, others polishing the benches and
+covering them with royal tapestries. The servants of the suitors
+came also and cut wood for the fires. Eumaios arrived early,
+driving three fat hogs. He saluted Odysseus and asked him if he
+were well treated by the suitors, or if they continued to scoff
+at him. Odysseus answered him: "May the gods punish the ruthless
+men who perpetrate such wrongs in a stranger's home." While they
+were talking together the goatherd joined him, and repeated the
+sneers and abuse of the preceding day. Odysseus took no notice of
+it, except to shake his head as one who plans direful things.</p>
+<p>The master herdsman now came along with a fat heifer and
+choice goats for the day's banquet. Offering his hand to
+Odysseus, he exclaimed: "Hail to thee, stranger! A long and happy
+life be thine! Methinks my master must be clothed in rags and
+wandering like thee. Thou dost bring his image to my mind. I hope
+he may return and drive these suitors out of his palace." "Be
+sure that he will come, herdsman; thou wilt see him with thine
+own eyes, when he slays the ruthless suitors, and then thou wilt
+know who is lord of the palace," replied Odysseus.</p>
+<p>The suitors were talking apart from the rest and conspiring to
+take the life of Telemachos, when an eagle wheeled over their
+heads, tearing a timid dove. With hearts foreboding ill at this
+omen, they went into the hall to begin the banquet, while the
+herdsman went his way first saying, "When Odysseus comes, call on
+me, and I will show how strong my arm is to deal a blow at his
+enemies."</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<center>
+<hr width="20%"></center>
+<br>
+<br>
+<a name="chap47" id="chap47"></a>
+<h3>CHAPTER XLVII</h3>
+<h4>THE LAST BANQUET OF THE SUITORS</h4>
+<br>
+<p>The suitors had now arrived in the great banquet-hall and
+taken their places at the tables. The servants brought bread and
+meat and placed it before them, while Melanthios filled their
+goblets with wine. Telemachos placed Odysseus near the door, and
+gave him an ample supply of food, saying: "Eat and drink,
+stranger, without fear. None of the wooers shall assail thee, for
+I will stand guard."</p>
+<p>One of the suitors, an evil-minded man with a rich father,
+said to his companions: "My friends, this stranger enjoys his
+meal greatly. It does not become any one of us to begrudge good
+things to the guests of Telemachos. I, too, wish to give him a
+present, which he in turn may bestow on some other beggar." With
+that he seized an ox's foot and hurled it at Odysseus.</p>
+<p>Odysseus dodged it by holding down his head. Telemachos grew
+angry and rebuked the suitor in these words: "Ktesippos, thou
+hast escaped death. It is well that this stranger avoided thy
+blow, for if thou hadst struck him, my sharp spear would have
+pinned thee to the wall, and thy father would have prepared a
+burial instead of a wedding for thee."</p>
+<p>Dreadful forebodings of woe began to fill the hearts of the
+suitors. Their speech became rambling and they laughed insanely.
+They ate and drank like men deranged.</p>
+<p>Penelope now entered the great hall and took her seat upon a
+magnificent throne, right in front of the suitors. She heard the
+maudlin laughter and saw the gluttonous feasting as the revel ran
+high. Then Athena came and moved her mind to immediate action,
+and she went up to the farthest chamber with her maids, where the
+arms of Odysseus were stored. His bow and deadly arrows, so long
+unused, were there, with rich treasures and perfumed garments.
+She wept as she took the bow from its case and went out, followed
+by the servants, who carried down costly prizes, such as Odysseus
+gave when festivals with games were held in his halls.</p>
+<p>She took her place, standing before the suitors, and addressed
+them: "Ye noble suitors, listen to my words. Cease to eat and
+drink and come to the contest. Too long have ye lived at my
+table, giving as an excuse that ye would win me as a bride. The
+suitor who can bend this bow and send this arrow through these
+twelve axes shall claim me as his wife, and I will follow him to
+his home."</p>
+<p>Penelope called to the swineherd and the herdsmen to place the
+rings and carry the bow to the suitors. Each in turn tried to do
+so, but were overcome with grief at seeing their master's
+weapons, and laid them down.</p>
+<p>Antino&ouml;s lifted up his voice and chid them: "Ye foolish
+peasants, must your eyes flow with tears at this feast? Bring the
+bow or leave the palace. Methinks we shall have hard work to bend
+this bow, for none of us have such sinews as had Odysseus."</p>
+<p>Then Telemachos took up the bow and laughed. "I must have lost
+my wits," he said, "for I am glad that this contest will take
+place. There is not such another woman in Greece as my stately
+mother. Make no delay then. I long to see the man who can bend
+the bow. I would that I might bend it myself and win the right to
+keep her in her own home. Then I should be spared the grief of
+losing her."</p>
+<p>Telemachos took off his cloak and laid his sword aside. He
+placed the axes in a row and took the bow and made three attempts
+to bend it, but did not succeed. He would have accomplished the
+feat if he had made one more effort, but Odysseus made a sign to
+him to desist, so he set the bow against the wall and went back
+to his seat.</p>
+<p>The first suitor to make the trial had never been pleased with
+the insolence of the wooers, and had great foresight and was
+called their seer. His hands were soft and delicate. He could not
+bend the bow, but he predicted that it would be the instrument to
+bring death to the whole crew.</p>
+<p>Antino&ouml;s reproached him for his prophecies, and ordered
+Melanthios to light a fire and bring a slice of fat, that the bow
+might be warmed and oiled to make it pliable. They warmed it and
+rubbed it with oil, and tried to bend it. One after another, each
+in turn, they made trials, but all in vain.</p>
+<p>In the meantime Odysseus went to the swineherd and the master
+of the herds, who had displayed such loyalty. He said to them:
+"My friends, what if Odysseus should come; would you take part
+with him, or join the crowd of suitors? Speak truly." The two men
+answered, appealing to the gods to bear witness, that they would
+stand by their master to the end.</p>
+<p>"Behold," said Odysseus, "I am the master that you love. I
+have come to my own land after twenty years of suffering, and
+among all my servants I hear none pray for my return save you
+two. And now that you may surely recognize me I will show you the
+scar made by a boar on Parnassos." He raised his ragged tunic for
+a moment and they looked at the scar. They recognized their
+long-lost master, and threw their arms around him and wept, and
+kissed his hands and feet.</p>
+<p>Odysseus begged them to desist, lest the suitors should notice
+it and discover him. And he instructed them to bring the bow to
+him and place it in his hands, after all the wooers had failed to
+bend it. And he told them to shut and lock the doors, so that the
+maid-servants could not hear the groans of the dying men, for
+they might run out and warn the town.</p>
+<p>Eurymachos and Antino&ouml;s were the last to make trial of
+the bow. Eurymachos sat before the fire and warmed it on both
+sides, but he could not bend it. He was vexed beyond measure, and
+said: "It is not that I care for Penelope, for there are other
+women that would suit me just as well, but if we are weaker than
+Odysseus our sons will hear of it in future times and be ashamed
+of us."</p>
+<p>Antino&ouml;s took up the word: "Eurymachos," he said, "this
+is a day held sacred to Apollo, god of the silver bow. He should
+have no rival. Let the bow alone, lest the god be angry and leave
+the axes standing in a row. No one will dare to touch them. Let
+Melanthios bring goats, and we will offer up sacrifices to the
+god and invite his aid. Then we shall have strength to win in
+this struggle."</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<center>
+<hr width="20%"></center>
+<br>
+<br>
+<a name="chap48" id="chap48"></a>
+<h3>CHAPTER XLVIII</h3>
+<h4>ODYSSEUS BENDS THE BOW</h4>
+<br>
+<p>The suitors approved the words of Antino&ouml;s. The heralds
+filled their cups with wine, and the wise Odysseus waited until
+they had drunk to their hearts' content.</p>
+<p>Then he lifted up his voice and said: "Hear me, ye suitors of
+Penelope, while I advise that you defer this trial of your
+strength until another day. Apollo will then bestow the power on
+one of you to triumph over the others. Let me practise with the
+bow to-day, to see if I have any of my youthful strength, or if I
+have lost it through suffering and want."</p>
+<p>The suitors were moved with desperate fear and anger. "Thou
+senseless beggar," said Antino&ouml;s, "is it not enough that we
+allow thee to sit at a banquet with the proudest men alive? Thou
+art drunk and thy mind wanders. What would come to thee if thou
+shouldst bend this bow? Verily we would sell thee for a slave to
+the great enemy of men."</p>
+<p>Then said Penelope: "Indeed, Antino&ouml;s, it is not
+large-minded to deny this poor old man the pleasure of trying the
+bow.</p>
+<p>"Dost thou think I would go forth as the wife of a beggar?
+Nay, the stranger has no hope of that. Do not let your minds be
+teased with such thoughts."</p>
+<p>Eurymachos, the leading suitor, rejoined: "Our care is not
+that thou wilt wed this man. But we fear the ridicule of the
+people, who will say, 'These are great men, indeed, who are
+outdone in strength and skill by a miserable old beggar.' It
+would be a never-ending shame to us."</p>
+<p>"Nay, Eurymachos," replied Penelope, "real shame comes on him
+who robs a good man and brings trouble to his family. This beggar
+claims to be of good blood, and his arm is sinewy. Let him try
+the bow. I make a solemn promise that if Apollo grant him the
+honor of bending the bow, I shall do no less than bestow upon him
+a tunic and a cloak, and sandals, and I will give him a sword
+with which he can defend himself. Then he can go where he
+likes."</p>
+<p>Telemachos saw that the great crisis was at hand. "Mother," he
+said, "it rests with me to give the bow or withhold it. Such
+matters belong to men, and in this palace the authority is mine.
+Take thy maids, then, and retire to thy apartments, and ply the
+tasks most suitable to women."</p>
+<p>The queen recognized her son's wisdom, and withdrew with her
+maids to the upper rooms. There she wept for the beloved monarch,
+her absent lord, until Athena sent a soothing sleep to comfort
+her.</p>
+<p>In the meanwhile the swineherd took up the bow and undertook
+to carry it to Odysseus. The suitors shouted their disapproval,
+and he became confused and set it down. Telemachos called out
+above the clamor and gave command for him to carry it along. The
+suitors laughed to hear the young man's voice ring out like a
+trumpet and drown all other noises. Odysseus took the bow and
+turned it from side to side, examining it in every part.
+Telemachos, in a low tone, bade Eurycleia make fast all the
+doors, and the master herdsman tied the gates of the outer court
+with a ship's cable.</p>
+<p>The suitors grew uneasy, and one of them said to another: "See
+the beggar, how he turns the bow this way and that! He would have
+us think that he is an expert in the use of bows." Odysseus
+stretched the cord and made it fast from end to end. He put it to
+his ear to try its tenseness as a minstrel tunes his harp. It
+sang like a bird. With perfect ease he drew the cord and let the
+arrow fly. It screamed like a swallow and went through every ring
+from the first one to the last. The suitors turned pale. Zeus
+sent a loud thunder-clap and Odysseus rejoiced at the omen. He
+sprang to the threshold with his bow in hand and a quiver full of
+arrows at his side, and shouted: "The contest is ended. Now I
+will choose another target."</p>
+<p>Antino&ouml;s had just put a golden goblet to his lips, and
+was about to drink the delicious wine. An arrow pierced his
+throat. He dropped the cup and fell to the ground, and as he fell
+his feet struck the table. The bread and meat were scattered in
+every direction over the floor. The suitors sprang to their feet
+and looked for the weapons on the walls. The spears were gone,
+and the lances and all the armor.</p>
+<p>Even yet they were blind to the fact that the stranger had
+slain Antino&ouml;s purposely. They poured out threats. "Fool,"
+they said, "what art thou doing? How couldst thou be so careless!
+Thou hast slain the noblest man in Ithaca. Dogs and vultures
+shall devour thee. Never again shalt thou be allowed a trial with
+the bow."</p>
+<p>"Dogs," cried Odysseus, "ye little thought your chief would
+ever return from Troy, and therefore ye have robbed me of my
+wealth and vexed my wife with offers of marriage, regardless of
+the laws of god and man. But now the hour of your death has come
+and your doom is certain."</p>
+<p>The suitors trembled and looked for some open door through
+which to fly for safety. Only Eurymachos took courage to make a
+defence. "If thou art indeed Odysseus, thou hast good cause to
+complain of wrongs," he said. "But thou hast slain the leader,
+Antino&ouml;s, who prompted us to do these wrongs. He had no
+thought of love for thy wife. He wanted to gain thy land and rule
+over thy people. Spare the rest of us and we will make ample
+restitution."</p>
+<p>A dreadful frown spread over Odysseus' face, and he replied:
+"Eurymachos, I will not take thy wealth nor will I spare thy
+life. Now choose between the two, either to fight or fly from
+death. Be sure no suitor shall escape my vengeance."</p>
+<p>The suitors all grew faint with fear. Eurymachos cried out to
+them: "Ye Ithacans, this man will stand there at the door and
+shoot us all down one by one. Out with your swords! Hold up the
+tables for shields, and rush upon him, all of you, at once. Drive
+him out of the gates, and then hurry through the city and give a
+general alarm."</p>
+<p>With a fearful shout Eurymachos then drew his own sword and
+sprang toward Odysseus. A deadly arrow from the famous bow met
+him and he fell upon the table, upsetting it, and he went
+spinning round with it on the paved floor, while the food and cup
+of wine were scattered all about. His head struck upon a stone
+and his feet against a chair. Death closed his eyes.</p>
+<p>Another suitor drew his sword and rushed toward Odysseus.
+Telemachos met him with a lance and slew him. Then Telemachos
+sprang to his father's side and said: "My father, I will bring
+thee javelins and a shield, and I will arm myself and the
+swineherd and the master herdsmen." "Make haste, my son,"
+responded Odysseus, "for I have but few arrows left."</p>
+<p>Telemachos hastened to the room where the arms had been stored
+and clothed himself in brass. His loyal herdsmen also put on
+splendid armor, and they hastened back to Odysseus with a
+complete outfit for him. The chief had used up his arrows, and
+now he dressed himself in armor and took the lances. Just then he
+perceived that the suitors had by some means been supplied with
+armor also. He called to Telemachos, who had left the door ajar
+leading to the apartment where the arms had been placed for
+safety.</p>
+<p>Melanthios, the goatherd, had sneaked in and was slyly
+bringing shields and helmets down to them. Telemachos saw him,
+and gave orders to the herdsmen to lock the doors of the armory
+and secure the spy. They hastened to the armory and found
+Melanthios, who had come back for a second load. They cast him on
+the floor and tied his arms down so that he could not move them.
+Then they took a rope and made two loops in it and swung him
+safely to the timbers in the roof, saying: "Melanthios, thou hast
+a soft bed, and it is where thou canst keep watch. In the morning
+thou canst drive thy goats to the suitors' banquet." They locked
+the doors and left him there and took their places at Odysseus'
+side.</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<center>
+<hr width="20%"></center>
+<br>
+<br>
+<a name="chap49" id="chap49"></a>
+<h3>CHAPTER XLIX</h3>
+<h4>DEATH OF THE SUITORS</h4>
+<br>
+<p>The combat grew more stubborn. Athena, in the guise of Mentor,
+stood near Odysseus and cheered him on. "Woe unto thee, Mentor,
+if thou dost dare to help Odysseus," cried one of the suitors.
+"We will not spare thee when we have slain him. More yet, we will
+drive thy wife and children out of Ithaca and keep thy wealth."
+The goddess, in great anger at this audacity, turned toward
+Odysseus and said: "Thou art not so swift and terrible in
+fighting, O Chieftain, as thou wert before the walls of
+Troy."</p>
+<p>Athena said this to spur Odysseus on, but she did not remain
+at his side. She changed herself into a swallow and perched upon
+a rafter of the great hall, to put his prowess to a greater test.
+When she had gone, the suitors grew braver and threw their spears
+at Odysseus thick and fast. But their aim was uncertain, and they
+struck pillars and panels and the wall, for the goddess turned
+their shafts aside.</p>
+<p>Odysseus and Telemachos and their faithful servants hurled
+their lances, and the weapons always hit the mark. The cowherd
+struck Ktesippos in the breast and exclaimed, as the suitor fell:
+"Ktesippos, I give thee this spear in exchange for the ox's foot
+which thou didst throw at Odysseus as a gift when he asked alms
+of thee."</p>
+<p>Four of the wooers fell to the ground at once and the
+remainder retreated to the farthest corner of the hall. Still
+they rallied for another onset. Odysseus rushed in upon them and
+cut them down right and left, while Athena from above shook her
+fearful &aelig;gis. The surviving wooers were stricken with
+terror and ran about like a herd of oxen chased by a swarm of
+gadflies. Only the minstrel Phemios and the herald Medon were
+spared. Both of them had served the suitors most unwillingly and
+had secretly advised with Telemachos.</p>
+<p>Odysseus searched up and down the hall to see if any suitor
+could be found alive. As fishes lie upon the beach when they have
+been poured out from the nets upon the sand, so lay the multitude
+of wooers. Not one survived.</p>
+<p>Then Odysseus called Eurycleia and bade her summon all of the
+impudent and unfaithful servants who had taken sides with the
+suitors. They came into the hall and with loud laments took up
+the slain and carried them out as they were commanded, and placed
+them in a walled court. Then they cleaned the hall with water and
+sponges, and polished the wood and set everything in order.</p>
+<p>When this was done, they were driven like a flock of birds
+into a narrow place outside and hung to a beam to die wretchedly.
+Melanthios also was brought down from the armory and cast among
+the dogs to die.</p>
+<p>The palace now was purged with the smoke of sulphur, and the
+air was purified with incense. The loyal servants crowded about
+their chieftain and welcomed him with glad salutations. They
+kissed his hands and face, and wept and laughed for joy. Odysseus
+was deeply moved and sobbed aloud.</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<center>
+<hr width="20%"></center>
+<br>
+<br>
+<a name="chap50" id="chap50"></a>
+<h3>CHAPTER L</h3>
+<h4>EURYCLEIA ANNOUNCES THE RETURN OF ODYSSEUS TO PENELOPE</h4>
+<br>
+<p>Eurycleia, with an exulting heart, now hurried up the lofty
+stairs and stood by the queen in her royal chamber. "Penelope,"
+she cried, "my child, Odysseus has come. Thy husband is here, and
+he has slain the whole crew of insolent suitors who squandered
+his riches and scoffed at his son." Prudent Penelope answered
+her: "Eurycleia, thou art mad. The gods have taken thy wits away.
+Do not mock me with such idle tales. If any other maid had come
+on such an errand and waked me from sleep, I would have dismissed
+her with anger."</p>
+<p>"Nay, dear child, I do not mock thee; Odysseus has come and is
+now sitting by the hearth. The beggar whom they scoffed at in the
+hall was Odysseus. Telemachos knew it, but dared not tell thee
+until the suitors should be slain."</p>
+<p>Penelope rose from her couch and seized Eurycleia by the
+hands.</p>
+<p>"Tell me, dear nurse," she said, "tell me truly, if in fact my
+husband has returned, how was it possible that he alone could
+destroy such a multitude of haughty men!" "I did not see it,"
+responded the old nurse, "but I heard the groans of the dying men
+as I sat with the other maids in our own rooms. The doors were
+locked to bar us from the hall. When Telemachos called me, I
+found Odysseus surrounded by the slain. When we had washed the
+hall and purged it with smoke and purified the air with incense,
+thy husband ordered me to call thee. Follow me now, my child,
+that your heart may be gladdened after it has been oppressed so
+long with sorrows."</p>
+<p>Penelope replied again: "Nay, I cannot believe it. The gods
+may have slain the suitors under the guise of Odysseus, but he
+has perished far away from home and never will return."</p>
+<p>"My daughter," said the aged nurse, "what words are these? I
+recognized Odysseus myself by the well-known scar made by the
+boar's tusk. I turned to tell thee, but he laid his finger on my
+lips and said: 'Be silent. Let no one know that I am here until
+the suitors all are slain, or else they will destroy me.' Now
+follow me. I pledge my life that I speak the truth."</p>
+<p>Penelope descended from her royal bower uncertain how to meet
+her lord. She crossed the threshold and sat down at the hearth,
+opposite Odysseus, who was seated beside a stately column in the
+blazing light of the fire. He did not lift his eyes to look at
+his wife, but waited for her to make the way open for him to
+speak. Penelope was speechless. She looked at her husband and
+seemed sometimes to recognize him, and then the resemblance faded
+out and he did not seem at all like Odysseus.</p>
+<p>Telemachos became impatient and spoke to her, chiding her.
+"Mother," he said, "thou art hard-hearted and unkind. Any other
+woman would extend a hearty welcome to her husband after he had
+suffered so many years of hardship, wandering in foreign lands.
+Take thy place at my father's side and question him. Verily thy
+heart is harder than a stone." "My son," answered Penelope, "I
+seem to have lost the power to speak. I am dazed and cannot even
+command myself to look at him. If this is indeed Odysseus we soon
+shall know each other, for there are secrets known to us two
+only."</p>
+<p>Odysseus smiled and said: "My son, be patient, and let thy
+mother put me to the test. She does not know me in these rags,
+but she will soon be convinced that I am Odysseus. It is more
+important now to prevent the news that the suitors have been
+slain from spreading. They have friends all over the city. Who
+knows but what they may rise up against us. I deem it best that
+we bathe and put on fresh garments, and let the servants do the
+same.</p>
+<p>"And let the minstrel bring his lyre and strike up such music
+as prompts the dance, so that those living near us may report
+that a wedding is being celebrated. Then we may safely venture
+forth and see what is to be done."</p>
+<p>Thus spoke the monarch, and his commands were gladly obeyed.
+Telemachos and the servants went their way to the baths and
+arrayed themselves in splendid clothing. The bard took his harp
+and woke the pleasing strains, and the palace halls resounded
+with mirth and dancing.</p>
+<p>After awhile those outside were heard to say: "Shame on
+Penelope! She weds a second time, and does not even know whether
+her absent lord is dead or living. She might have waited for him
+to return."</p>
+<p>Meantime Odysseus followed a servant to the bath, and when he
+had been bathed and anointed he put on garments suitable for a
+king. Athena gave him a more majestic appearance, and caused his
+hair to fall in heavy curls, like the petals of the hyacinth.
+When he came back to the great hall and stood before the queen,
+he looked like an immortal.</p>
+<p>"Lady," he said, "the gods have given thee a stubborn heart.
+Any other woman would have given a glad welcome to her husband
+after he had been absent twenty years." To this Penelope
+responded: "Not so; I have no pride nor a cold heart. But I
+should be unworthy of my lord if I accepted a stranger without
+putting him to the proof. I remember well when thou didst go to
+Troy. Thou didst command Eurycleia to carry thy massive bed out
+into the open air and cover it with fleeces."</p>
+<p>"Nay, woman, no living man could perform such a feat. I built
+that massive frame myself. It was a tall olive-tree that grew
+within one of the courts. Round it I built a royal bower, and,
+cutting off the great limbs of the tree, shaped them and fastened
+them to the trunk. In this wise I built the frame, and no one
+could move it without dragging the tree out by the roots. That is
+a secret known only to thee and me."</p>
+<p>Penelope had put the final test, and knew that this was surely
+Odysseus. She rose from where she sat and ran to him and threw
+her arms about his neck and kissed his brow. "Odysseus, do not be
+angry with me," she said. "Many are they who have tried to
+practise deception upon me. Thou hast made me believe in thee."
+These words pierced Odysseus' heart and brought him the relief of
+tears. He pressed his faithful wife to his bosom again and
+again.</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<center>
+<hr width="20%"></center>
+<br>
+<br>
+<a name="chap51" id="chap51"></a>
+<h3>CHAPTER LI</h3>
+<h4>ODYSSEUS VISITS HIS FATHER</h4>
+<br>
+<p>Early the next morning Odysseus dressed himself in his
+splendid armor and bade his son and servants accompany him to the
+farm. They took their weapons and went forth, Odysseus leading
+the way. It was not long before they came to the green fields
+which were cared for by Laertes. He had built his house there,
+and surrounded it with cabins, where his servants slept.</p>
+<p>Odysseus was anxious to know whether his father would
+recognize him or not, so he said to one of the men: "Go into the
+house and call my father. Let me see whether he will know me,
+after I have been so long away." Placing his weapons in their
+hands, he went down into the orchard. There were no servants
+about, for they had all gone off to gather thorns with which to
+build a fence.</p>
+<p>There Odysseus saw his father working around a young tree that
+he had just planted. He was clad in old, coarse clothes that had
+been repeatedly patched, a goat-skin cap, and gloves to protect
+his hands from the briers.</p>
+<p>It was pitiful to see the want of hope in the old man's face
+as he moved about brooding over his troubles. Odysseus was
+uncertain whether he should throw his arms about his father's
+neck and clasp him to his heart and kiss him, or whether it were
+better to question him.</p>
+<p>He approached Laertes gently and, having greeted him, said:
+"My friend, thou art a skilful farmer. Every fig and vine and
+pear and olive has been carefully trained. But no one seems to
+care for thee. Thy master treats thee badly, for thou art
+ill-clad and unkempt. An old man deserves better things. Thy face
+does not look like the face of a servant. Indeed one might take
+thee for a king. Now tell me, who owns this orchard? And tell me
+also if this land is Ithaca. I desire to learn what became of
+Odysseus, the son of Laertes. He was once my guest and one that I
+made most welcome."</p>
+<p>Laertes wept. "Thou art indeed in Ithaca, O stranger," he
+said. "But thou dost seek in vain for Odysseus. The land is full
+of wicked men, and there is no host to load thee with generous
+gifts, a recompense for thy hospitality. Oh, tell me of my son;
+when did he lodge with thee? Woe is me! The beasts and birds have
+long since devoured him. No mother folded his shroud about him,
+nor did his father or his loyal wife weep upon his bier. Tell me,
+what is thy name? Where is thy ship? How didst thou come
+here?"</p>
+<p>Odysseus was overcome with pity, and invented a tale to
+prepare Laertes for his unexpected coming. Then he clasped the
+dear old man in his arms and kissed his trembling hands, and
+said: "I am thy son, my father; I am the Odysseus of whom thou
+dost inquire. Here is the scar given me by the wild boar as I
+hunted on Parnassos. And for further proof I will tell thee of
+the orchard-trees thou gavest me when I was a child. There were
+thirteen pear-trees, forty fig-trees, and ten apple-trees.
+Forbear thy weeping and cease to mourn. I have slain the
+suitor-robbers who were destroying my riches, and I have taken
+possession of my house again."</p>
+<p>Overwhelmed with joy, the old king trembled from head to foot.
+The sturdy chieftain, Odysseus, saw it and drew him to his heart
+to keep him from fainting, and held him there until his strength
+came back. Then they went up to the house, where a supper had
+been prepared, and Telemachos was waiting. Laertes went to the
+bath and came back clad like a king. The grief had left his face,
+and he took on his old majestic appearance. As they sat at the
+banquet, relating the experiences of the past years, Dolius and
+his sons, the servants who had gone in search of thorns,
+returned. Dolius recognized Odysseus and seized him by the hand
+and saluted him with joyful greetings, and his sons gathered
+round the chieftain eager to take his hand.</p>
+<p>Meantime the souls of the suitors had gone down to the abode
+of Pluto. Hermes led them, and they followed, crying and wailing
+like bats in a dark cave. The shades of Achilles, Agamemnon,
+Ajax, and other heroes saw them and constrained them to relate
+the mishaps that had brought them there. Then Agamemnon's ghost
+responded: "Fortunate Odysseus! His fame shall last forever, and
+poets shall sing the praises of Penelope in all the coming
+ages."</p>
+<p>Ere Odysseus and Laertes had finished their feast, the news of
+the dreadful death of the suitors spread over the city. The
+wooers had many friends, and they came to the palace weeping and
+mourning, ready to avenge their slaughter. Finding that Odysseus
+was not at home, they proceeded to the market-place. The father
+of Antino&ouml;s arose and lifted up his voice crying for
+vengeance, but Medon, the herald, warned them that a god had
+taken part against them and that strife would be useless.</p>
+<p>Halitherses, a wise and reverend citizen, took up the word:
+"Ye men of Ithaca," he said, "give ear to what I have to say.
+Odysseus was not the cause of your misfortunes, but you,
+yourselves. Ye would not check the insolence of the suitors, even
+when Mentor bade you do it. Contend not with Odysseus nor bring
+down his wrath upon us."</p>
+<p>The Ithacans were now divided against themselves. Half of them
+took up arms to make war on Odysseus, and started for his
+father's house. In this adversity Athena did not forget her
+favorite chief, but armed herself, and, taking on the guise of
+Mentor, placed herself at Odysseus' side. A son of Dolius was
+first to announce that a crowd was marching against them, when
+they all arose quickly, donned their armor, and went outside.</p>
+<p>Then Odysseus cried out to Telemachos: "Now is the moment to
+show thyself a hero, my son. Do not bring disgrace upon thy
+forefathers, for they are renowned over the whole world for their
+bravery." Telemachos responded: "There is no danger of that, my
+dear father, as I shall show thee presently." When Laertes heard
+this he rejoiced and said: "This is a happy day for me. How blest
+am I to see my son and grandson rivals in brave deeds."</p>
+<p>Athena now drew near to the old king, and inspired him with
+youthful courage. He swung his spear aloft and threw it at the
+leader of the host and smote him to the earth. Odysseus and
+Telemachos rushed into the fray with double-edged swords. They
+would have made an end of the whole multitude, but Athena called
+aloud: "People of Ithaca, cease from fighting! Retire at once
+from this contest and shed no more blood."</p>
+<p>The Ithacans grew pale with fright at hearing the voice of the
+goddess. They threw down their weapons and ran toward the city in
+a panic of fear. Odysseus shouted in triumph as he gave chase,
+but Zeus sent a thunder-bolt down as a sign to Athena that she
+should restrain him. The goddess called to him to cease the
+pursuit, and, taking the guise of Mentor, she moved the minds of
+Odysseus and his enemies to mutual pledges of peace and
+good-will.</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<a name="vocabulary" id="vocabulary"></a>
+<h2>VOCABULARY AND NOTES</h2>
+<br>
+<p>A chil' les&mdash;also called Pelides, the hero of the
+"Iliad." He was the son of Peleus (king of Phthia in Thessaly)
+and the sea-nymph, Thetis.</p>
+<p>&AElig; g&#275;' an&mdash;a sea east of Greece.</p>
+<p>&AElig;' o lus&mdash;the keeper of the winds, and king of
+Lipara, one of the &AElig;olian isles north of Sicily.</p>
+<p>Ag a mem' non&mdash;leader of all the Greek chiefs in the
+Trojan war.</p>
+<p>A' jax, or Aias&mdash;king of Salamis and cousin of Achilles.
+He was the son of Telamon and was called Ajax the Greater.</p>
+<p>Al ex &#259;n' dr&#335;s&mdash;Paris, son of Priam.</p>
+<p>Al kin' &#335; &ouml;s&mdash;king of Scheria, father of
+Nausica&auml;. He gave aid to Odysseus when he was stranded on
+the island.</p>
+<p>An tin' o &ouml;s&mdash;the boldest of the suitors.</p>
+<p>Aph ro d&#299;' te&mdash;Venus, the goddess of love and
+beauty. The island of Kythera (Cythera), south of Greece, was the
+seat of her worship.</p>
+<p>A p&#335;l' lo&mdash;the Sun-god, brother of Artemis and son
+of Zeus and Leto. The island of D&#275;los was his mythical
+birthplace and his principal oracle was at Delphi.</p>
+<p>Ar ca' di a, or Arkadia&mdash;the central district of the
+Peloponnesus.</p>
+<p>A re' t&egrave; (&auml; r&#257;' t&#257;)&mdash;wife of
+Alkino&ouml;s and queen of Scheria.</p>
+<p>Ar e th&#363;' sa&mdash;a spring "where the swine of Eumaios
+ate 'abundance of acorns and drank the black water.'" (See
+Baedeker's Greece&mdash;Ithaca.) Arethusa was also the name of a
+water-nymph inhabiting the spring.</p>
+<p>Ar' gus, or Argos&mdash;the most celebrated dog known to fame.
+He belonged to Odysseus.</p>
+<p>Ar' te mis, or Diana&mdash;goddess of the moon and sister to
+Apollo. She was called the hunter-goddess and the protector of
+animals.</p>
+<p>As' ph&#333; del&mdash;a flower sacred to Persephone. The
+souls of the departed were supposed to wander in meadows adorned
+with these beautiful flowers.</p>
+<p>A th&#275;' n&#275;, or Athena; Latin, Minerva&mdash;the
+patron deity of Athens. The city was named for her. Ruskin calls
+her the "Queen of the Air," and explains her real significance as
+being the inspiration of the soul, which corresponds to the
+physical vigor and life received by inhaling the pure air. She is
+always called the "Goddess of Wisdom."</p>
+<p>A' treus (a' tr&#363;se)&mdash;son of Pelops and father of
+Agamemnon.</p>
+<p>Au' lis&mdash;a bay and town on the coast of Greece, about
+thirty miles north of Athens. "The scanty ruins of Aulis lie on
+the rugged ridge of rock which stretches into the sea between the
+two bays. The little town never attained any importance, for its
+site was unfavorable for the development of a community; but the
+two sheltered bays were excellently adapted to be the rendezvous
+of a fleet." (See Baedeker's Greece&mdash;Aulis.)</p>
+<p>Cad' mus, or Kadmos&mdash;the founder of Thebes in
+B&oelig;otia. According to tradition, he came from Ph&oelig;nicia
+and brought the alphabet to the Greeks and the knowledge of
+working in metals.</p>
+<p>Cal' chas, or Kalchas&mdash;a soothsayer. He offended
+Agamemnon by declaring that the Greeks suffered from the wrath of
+the gods through his offences.</p>
+<p>Ca lyp' so&mdash;the goddess of Silence, daughter of Oceanos
+and Tethys, and queen of Ogygia. She tried by every art to detain
+Odysseus on his way home from Troy.</p>
+<p>Cas san' dra&mdash;a daughter of Priam, and a prophetess,
+taken captive in the Trojan war and awarded to Agamemnon.</p>
+<p>Cha ryb' dis&mdash;a whirlpool off the coast of Sicily, a
+little to the north of Messina.</p>
+<p>Cir' c&egrave;, or Kirk&#275;&mdash;the daughter of
+H&#275;lios, the Sun. She was an enchantress who lived on the
+island &AElig;&aelig;a. She infused into the vine the
+intoxicating quality found in the juice of the grape. "The grave
+of Circe used to be pointed out on the island of St. George,
+close to Salamis." (See Baedeker's Greece&mdash;Salamis.)</p>
+<p>Cy' clops, or Kyklops, also called Polyphemus&mdash;a
+monstrous one-eyed giant. He was the son of Poseidon. It was due
+to his prayer for revenge that Odysseus was kept so long
+wandering on the sea.</p>
+<p>Cy the' ra, or Kythera&mdash;a rocky island lying south of
+Greece. It was the seat of the worship of Aphrodite.</p>
+<p>D&#275;' los&mdash;an island about sixty miles southeast of
+Athens. It is the mythical birthplace of Apollo and Artemis.</p>
+<p>D&#275; mod' o kos&mdash;a bard at the court of
+Alkino&ouml;s.</p>
+<p>E' lis&mdash;a district and a city in the northwestern part of
+the Peloponnesus. Like Sparta, the city had no walls. It was
+protected by the sacred peace of Olympia.</p>
+<p>The plain or precinct of Olympia is situated in the district
+of Elis. Pyrgos is the nearest railroad station. "Olympia owed
+its high importance throughout the entire Grecian world to the
+famous Olympic games in honor of Zeus, which took place
+periodically for centuries. Excavations there have brought to
+light many magnificent pieces of sculpture, among them the Hermes
+of Praxiteles."</p>
+<p>El p&#275;' nor&mdash;one of the comrades of Odysseus. He fell
+from the roof of Circ&egrave;'s palace and was killed.</p>
+<p>E lys' ian&mdash;pertaining to Elysium, the abode of dead
+heroes and other happy spirits.</p>
+<p>Eu mai' os, or Eum&aelig;us&mdash;the swineherd of
+Odysseus.</p>
+<p>Eu r&#333;' tas&mdash;a river of southern Greece.</p>
+<p>Eu ry' a los&mdash;a son of Alkino&ouml;s.</p>
+<p>Eu ry clei' a (&#363; ry cl&#299;' &auml;)&mdash;the nurse of
+Odysseus and Telemachos.</p>
+<p>Eu ry' l&#335; chos, or Eurylochus&mdash;one of the companions
+of Odysseus.</p>
+<p>Eu ry' ma chos, or Eurymachus&mdash;one of the suitors of
+Penelope.</p>
+<p>Gor' gon&mdash;a monster of fearful aspect, a daughter of
+Phorkys and Ceto. Her hair was entwined with serpents, her hands
+were of brass, her body covered with scales, and anyone gazing
+upon her was turned into stone.</p>
+<p>Hel' en, or Helen&#275;&mdash;a daughter of Tyndareus and
+Leda. She was the wife of Menelaos and was always called "the
+most beautiful woman in the world."</p>
+<p>Hel' las&mdash;Greece, the land of the Hellenes.</p>
+<p>H&#275;' li os&mdash;the god of the Sun.</p>
+<p>He phais' tos, or Heph&aelig;stus&mdash;Vulcan. He was the
+blacksmith god, the god of fire, and a worker in metals.</p>
+<p>H&#275;' ra, H&#275;r&#275;&mdash;Juno, the wife of Zeus. She
+was worshipped as the queen of heaven and was regarded as a model
+of womanly virtue. Argos was the chief centre of the worship of
+Hera.</p>
+<p>H&#275;r' a kles, or Hercules&mdash;a celebrated hero whose
+deeds are connected with many localities. There is a cave near
+Nemea where he is said to have slain a lion, not far from
+Stymphalos, where he put the Harpies to flight, and Erymanthos,
+the scene of the killing of the Erymanthian boar. There are
+traditions of his heroism connected with Thessaly (Thebes) and
+Locris, also.</p>
+<p>Her' bart&mdash;a German philosopher and pedagogian.</p>
+<p>Her' m&#275;s, or Mercury&mdash;the messenger of the gods,
+also their herald.</p>
+<p>Her mi' &#335; ne&mdash;the daughter of Menelaos and
+Helen.</p>
+<p>Ho' mer&mdash;the greatest of the Greek poets and author of
+the "Iliad" and "Odyssey."</p>
+<p>I' da&mdash;a mountain of Asia Minor, east of Troy.</p>
+<p>Il' i ad&mdash;an epic poem, probably the greatest ever
+written, devoted to the deeds of Achilles, and taken by the best
+scholars of modern times as an interpretation of Greek life,
+Greek thought, and the Greek religion.</p>
+<p>I' no, or Leucothea&mdash;a daughter of Cadmus, a sea-nymph
+who helped Odysseus by giving him an enchanted veil.</p>
+<p>Iph i gen ei' a&mdash;the daughter of Agamemnon and
+Clytemnestra. "Ulrichs has discovered the site of the famous
+Temple of Artemis or Diana, where Agamemnon was on the point of
+sacrificing his daughter Iphigeneia, before the departure of the
+Greek fleet for Troy." (See Baedeker's Greece&mdash;Aulis.) To
+appreciate the character of this famous woman one must read the
+"Iphigeneia in Aulis" of Euripides and the "Iphigeneia in Tauris"
+of Goethe.</p>
+<p>Ith' a ca, or Ithaka, Greek Ith&aacute;k&#275;&mdash;rocky
+island with an area of 37&frac12; square miles and 12,500
+inhabitants. "The world-wide fame of this little island is of
+course due to the Homeric epic of the Odyssey, in which the
+misfortunes and wiles, the wanderings, and home-coming of Ulysses
+(Odysseus), King of Ithaca, have been handed down to posterity in
+undying verse. Even if the person of the hero be relegated to the
+realm of myths, it is indisputable that the descriptions of the
+poem rest upon a more or less exact local knowledge; and this is
+evident not only in the account of the situation and general
+character of the island but also in numerous small details....
+The island became almost entirely depopulated in the middle ages,
+in consequence of the raids of pirates and the Turkish wars, and
+did not begin to recover until the Venetian epoch. But similar
+conditions of life make the modern islanders resemble the
+ancient. To this day the Ithacans are distinguished by their bold
+seamanship, their love of home, and their hospitality." (See
+Baedeker's Greece&mdash;Ithaca.)</p>
+<p>Ja' son, or Iason&mdash;the hero who undertook the expedition
+in search of the Golden Fleece.</p>
+<p>Ktes ip' pos, or Ctesippus&mdash;one of the suitors of
+Penelope.</p>
+<p>Lak e dai' mon, or Laced&aelig;mon&mdash;a district in
+southeastern Greece. Sparta was its capital.</p>
+<p>La &euml;r' tes&mdash;the father of Odysseus.</p>
+<p>La o' da m&agrave;s&mdash;a son of Alkino&ouml;s.</p>
+<p>La o' co &ouml;n, or Laoko&ouml;n&mdash;a young priest of
+Apollo. He warned the Trojans not to accept the wooden horse left
+by the Greeks and was destroyed by a serpent.</p>
+<p>Lo' tus&mdash;the Egyptian water-lily, also a tree. The
+lotus-eaters ate of the fruit of the lotus-tree and forgot their
+homes and friends.</p>
+<p>Me l&#259;n' thi os&mdash;a servant of Odysseus, a goatherd
+who sympathized with the suitors and served them.</p>
+<p>Men e l&#257;' os, or Menelaus&mdash;a son of Atreus and
+brother of Agamemnon. Menelaos was the king of Sparta and husband
+of Helen.</p>
+<p>Men' tor&mdash;the wise counsellor of Telemachos.</p>
+<p>Mil t&#299;' &auml; des&mdash;the hero of the battle of
+Marathon, fought 490 <small>B.C.</small> In this battle the
+Greeks, numbering 10,000 men, conquered ten times as many
+Persians.</p>
+<p>Mi' nos&mdash;a son of Zeus and ruler over Crete.</p>
+<p>Mo' ly&mdash;a fabulous plant having magic properties. It had
+a white blossom and a black root.</p>
+<p>My c&#275;' n&aelig;, or Myk&#275;nai&mdash;an ancient city of
+Argolis, in the northeastern Peloponnesus. "Dr. Henry Schliemann,
+in 1876, made rich discoveries there, weapons, ornaments, vessels
+of gold, silver and clay," skeletons "surrounded by bands of
+gold, golden shovels engraved with battle-scenes," etc. (See
+Baedeker's Greece&mdash;Mycen&aelig; and Athens.)</p>
+<p>Myr' m&#301; d&#335;ns&mdash;a warlike people of Thrace, ruled
+by Achilles and taken by him to the Trojan war as followers.</p>
+<p>Nau sic' a &auml;&mdash;the daughter of Alkino&ouml;s.</p>
+<p>N&#275; &#335;p t&#335;l' &#277; m&#335;s&mdash;the son of
+Achilles.</p>
+<p>N&#277;s' tor&mdash;the leader of the warriors of Pylos, in
+southwestern Greece.</p>
+<p>O ke' a nos, or Oceanus&mdash;the god of the river Oceanus,
+and son of Heaven and Earth.</p>
+<p>Od ys' seus (s&#363;se), or Ulysses&mdash;the son of Laertes
+and Anticleia and the hero of Homer's Odyssey. Being summoned to
+the Trojan war, he feigned madness, and harnessed a mule and a
+cow to a plough and began ploughing the sea-shore. Palamedes, to
+test his madness, placed his infant son, Telemachos, in front of
+the plough, and Odysseus quickly turned it aside. He became
+famous for his bravery and craft in the war. He is looked upon by
+critics as the most perfect type of adult Greek ideals.</p>
+<a name="ill6" id="ill6"></a>
+<table align="center" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="6"
+summary="madness">
+<tr>
+<td width="648"><img src="images/6.jpg" alt=
+"ODYSSEUS FEIGNS MADNESS"></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td width="648" align="center">ODYSSEUS FEIGNS MADNESS</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+<p>O lymp' os, or Olympus&mdash;a mountain in Thrace. The home of
+the gods.</p>
+<p>O r&#277;s' t&#275;s&mdash;the son of Agamemnon.</p>
+<p>Par' is, or Alexandros&mdash;a son of Priam. At his birth
+there was a prophecy that he would be the ruin of his country;
+hence he was cast out upon Mount Ida, where he was found and
+rescued by a shepherd. (See <a href=
+"#introduction">Introduction</a>.)</p>
+<p>Par nas' sos&mdash;a mountain near the north coast of the
+Corinthian Gulf. It is 8,070 feet high and commands a view of
+Mount Olympos to the north, Eub&oelig;a on the east, the islands
+of the Archipelago, the Peloponnesus, and even Mount Korax.</p>
+<p>Pat' r&#335; klos, or Patroclus&mdash;the intimate friend of
+Achilles. His death at the hands of the Trojans provoked Achilles
+to action.</p>
+<p>Pei sis' tra tos&mdash;a son of Nestor.</p>
+<p>P&#275;' leus&mdash;the father of Achilles.</p>
+<p>Pel op on n&#275;s' us&mdash;the peninsula of lower
+Greece.</p>
+<p>Pe nel' o pe&mdash;the wife of Odysseus. The greatest heroine
+of ancient romance.</p>
+<p>P&#277;r s&#277;ph' &#333; ne, or Proserpine&mdash;daughter of
+Demeter (Ceres). "She was the goddess of Spring and was allowed
+to spend two-thirds of the year with her mother, while the
+remaining time she dwelt with her husband, Hades, in his
+underground abode." Eleusis, twelve miles west of Athens, was the
+centre of the worship of Demeter and Persephone. (See Baedeker's
+Greece&mdash;Eleusis.)</p>
+<p>Phai a' ki ans, or Ph&aelig;acians&mdash;the people of the
+island of Scheria, over whom Alkino&ouml;s ruled.</p>
+<p>Ph&#275;' mi os&mdash;a bard at the court of Odysseus.</p>
+<p>Phor' kys&mdash;the harbor where the Ph&aelig;acians landed
+Odysseus on his return to Ithaca. "The Bay of Vathy," says
+Baedeker, "disputes with the Bay of Dexi&aacute; the honor of
+being the Harbour of Phorkys."</p>
+<p>Plu' to, or Hades&mdash;a son of Rhea and Kronos and brother
+of Zeus and Poseidon. Pluto was the ruler of the lower world.</p>
+<p>Po sei' don, or Neptune&mdash;brother of Zeus and Hades.
+Poseidon was the ruler of the seas and was the first to train and
+employ horses.</p>
+<p>Pol y phe' mus, or Polyphemos or Cyclops&mdash;the son of
+Poseidon. He was one of the Cyclops or Kyklops who were said to
+live in the heart of burning mountains, particularly in Mount
+&AElig;tna.</p>
+<p>Pri' am, or Priamos&mdash;king of Troy and father of
+Paris.</p>
+<p>Pro' teus&mdash;an ocean deity who lived at the bottom of the
+sea. He took care of Poseidon's sea-calves and was famous for his
+evasiveness.</p>
+<p>Py' los&mdash;a town (and bay) in the southwestern part of
+lower Greece. It was the centre of Nestor's kingdom.</p>
+<p>Sa' mos&mdash;"at present a little village on the island of
+Cephalonia, the starting-point of the boats to Ithaca. In Homer,
+the <i>island</i> of Cephalonia, or its east part, is called
+Sam&#275;; and in the latter part of the Odyssey, Samos appears
+as belonging to the kingdom of Ithaca." (Baedeker.) Samos, a
+large island near Asia Minor, is not related to the Samos of the
+Odyssey.</p>
+<p>Ska man' dros, or Scamander&mdash;a river of the Troad or
+plains of Troy.</p>
+<p>Scher' i a&mdash;an island northwest of Greece. "The ancients
+identified Corf&ugrave; with the Ph&aelig;acian island of
+Scheria, mentioned in the 'Odyssey,' as ruled over by
+Alkino&ouml;s." (Baedeker.)</p>
+<p>Skyl' la&mdash;a rock in southwestern Italy. It was supposed
+to be the abode of a monster with many heads and hands.</p>
+<p>Sky' ros&mdash;a large island east of Greece.</p>
+<p>Sim' o is&mdash;a river in the Troad, and a branch of the
+Scamander.</p>
+<p>Si' rens&mdash;daughters of Achel&ouml;os and a Muse, or,
+according to another account, daughters of Phorkys. They failed
+to care for Persephone when Pluto seized her to carry her off,
+and Demeter took revenge by transforming them into monsters half
+woman and half bird.</p>
+<p>Sis' y phos&mdash;a hero who secured a fountain to the citadel
+of Corinth by betraying Zeus. Sisyphos was punished by being
+obliged to roll stones up-hill in Hades.</p>
+<p>Spar' ta&mdash;a town in the southern part of the
+Peloponnesus, on the Eurotas. It was the chief city of
+Laced&aelig;mon and the home of Menelaos and Helen. It had no
+walls, but its acropolis was covered with temples. Ancient Sparta
+was noted for the bravery of its people. At present Sparta has
+about 3,600 inhabitants. There are few relics of its ancient
+greatness.</p>
+<p>Styx&mdash;a stream of water in central lower Greece. "The
+thread of water descends from a huge cliff against a background
+of dark moss, which has earned for the brook the name of 'Black
+Water.' At the bottom of the cliff the water loses itself in a
+chaos of rocks. The ancients saw in the icy coldness of the water
+and in the barren tract around an image of the underworld." (See
+Baedeker's Greece.) To swear by the Styx was to take "the great
+oath of the gods."</p>
+<p>Tan' ta los&mdash;a king of Phrygia punished by the gods for
+treachery and for cruelty to his son. He was doomed to suffer
+from hunger and thirst while standing close to food and water
+which he could not reach.</p>
+<p>T&#275; l&#277;' ma chos&mdash;the son of Odysseus and
+Penelope.</p>
+<p>Ten' e dos&mdash;an island in the neighborhood of Troy or
+Ilium.</p>
+<p>Them is' to kles&mdash;a great statesman of Athens, and a
+leader of the Greeks in the Persian war when the Greeks won the
+battle of Salamis.</p>
+<p>The' seus (Th&#275;' s&#363;se)&mdash;a son of &AElig;geus and
+&AElig;thra. Like his counterpart Herakles, Theseus performed
+wonderful deeds, and finally became ruler of Athens.</p>
+<p>Thes' sa ly&mdash;a large province of northern Greece.</p>
+<p>Th&#277;' tis&mdash;a sea-nymph, the mother of Achilles.</p>
+<p>Ti res' ias, or Teiresias&mdash;a Theban seer. He retained his
+consciousness after death, and Odysseus descended into Hades to
+consult with him before he could reach Ithaca.</p>
+<p>Troy, Ilios, or Ilium&mdash;a city of Asia Minor and the scene
+of the Trojan war. Dr. Schliemann has identified the city with
+Hissarlik, and in his excavations there found many evidences of
+the war, such as spears, helmets, etc.</p>
+<p>Zeus, or Jupiter&mdash;a son of Kronos and Rhea. His abode was
+supposed to be on Mount Olympos, in Thessaly. He was considered
+the highest of the gods, ruler of the heavens and the earth.</p>
+<p>Za' kyn thos, or Zante&mdash;an island near Corf&ugrave;.</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<p>[Transcriber's note: The publishers of this book used an
+unusual convention in which only a single pair of quotation marks
+surround a quote, even when the quote extends over multiple
+paragraphs or multiple chapters. This transcription has
+conventional usage of quotation marks.]</p>
+
+<div style='display:block;margin-top:4em'>*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE HERO OF ITHACA ***</div>
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+<div style='display:block;margin:1em 0;'>This and all associated files of various formats will be found in https://www.gutenberg.org/2/4/8/5/24856/</div>
+<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>
+Updated editions will replace the previous one&#8212;the old editions will
+be renamed.
+</div>
+
+<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>
+Creating the works from print editions not protected by U.S. copyright
+law means that no one owns a United States copyright in these works,
+so the Foundation (and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United
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+Project Gutenberg (https://www.gutenberg.org) public repository for
+eBook #24856 (https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/24856)
diff --git a/old/24856-8.txt b/old/24856-8.txt
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+The Project Gutenberg EBook of Odysseus, the Hero of Ithaca, by Homer
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+Title: Odysseus, the Hero of Ithaca
+       Adapted from the Third Book of the Primary Schools of Athens, Greece
+
+Author: Homer
+
+Editor: Mary Elizabeth Burt
+
+Translator: Zena�de Alexe�evna Ragozin
+
+Release Date: March 16, 2008 [EBook #24856]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK ODYSSEUS, THE HERO OF ITHACA ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by Ron Swanson
+
+
+
+
+
+[Frontispiece: ODYSSEUS AS A YOUTH AT HOME WITH HIS MOTHER]
+
+
+
+
+ODYSSEUS
+THE HERO OF ITHACA
+
+ADAPTED FROM THE THIRD BOOK OF THE PRIMARY SCHOOLS OF ATHENS, GREECE
+
+
+BY
+
+MARY E. BURT
+
+_Author of "Literary Landmarks," "Stories from Plato," "Story of the
+German Iliad," "The Child-Life Reading Study"; Editor of "Little
+Nature Studies"; Teacher in the John A. Browning School, New York
+City_
+
+AND
+
+ZENA�DE A. RAGOZIN
+
+_Author of "The Story of Chaldea," "The Story of Assyria," "The Story
+of Media, Babylon, and Persia," "The Story of Vedic India"; Member
+of the Royal Asiatic Society of Great Britain and Ireland, of the
+American Oriental Society, of the Soci�t� Ethnologique of Paris,
+etc._
+
+
+
+
+CHARLES SCRIBNER'S SONS
+NEW YORK   CHICAGO   BOSTON
+
+
+
+
+COPYRIGHT, 1898, BY
+CHARLES SCRIBNER'S SONS
+
+Printed in the United States of America
+
+
+
+
+                         To
+                    THE TEACHER
+       WHOSE INTEGRITY AND PEDAGOGICAL SPIRIT
+    HAVE CREATED A SCHOOL WHEREIN THE IDEAL MAY
+             PROVE ITSELF THE PRACTICAL
+                         AND
+             THOSE ENTHUSIASTIC PUPILS
+    WHO LOVE THE LOYALTY AND BRAVERY OF ODYSSEUS
+              THIS BOOK IS DEDICATED
+
+
+
+
+CONTENTS
+
+                                                                 PAGE
+INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xiii
+
+
+PART I
+AN INTRODUCTION TO THE LIFE OF THE HERO, ODYSSEUS
+
+CHAPTER                                                          PAGE
+      I. About Troy and the Journey of Paris to Greece . . . . .    3
+
+     II. The Flight of Helen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    6
+
+    III. The Greeks Sail for Troy  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   10
+
+     IV. The Fall of Troy  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   13
+
+
+PART II
+THE RETURN OF ODYSSEUS TO HIS OWN COUNTRY
+
+CHAPTER                                                          PAGE
+      V. Odysseus on the Island of Calypso . . . . . . . . . . .   21
+
+     VI. Odysseus Constructs a Raft and Leaves the Island  . . .   25
+
+    VII. Odysseus is Saved on the Island of Scheria  . . . . . .   29
+
+   VIII. Nausica� is Sent to the River by Athena . . . . . . . .   31
+
+     IX. Odysseus Arrives at the Palace of Alkino�s  . . . . . .   38
+
+      X. Odysseus in the Halls of Alkino�s . . . . . . . . . . .   42
+
+     XI. The Banquet in Honor of Odysseus  . . . . . . . . . . .   47
+
+    XII. Odysseus Relates His Adventures . . . . . . . . . . . .   54
+
+   XIII. The Lotus-Eaters and the Cyclops  . . . . . . . . . . .   57
+
+    XIV. The Cave of the Cyclops . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   60
+
+     XV. The Blinding of the Cyclops . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   64
+
+    XVI. Odysseus and His Companions Leave the Land of the
+           Cyclops . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   67
+
+   XVII. The Adventures of Odysseus on the Island of �olus . . .   72
+
+  XVIII. Odysseus at the Home of Circ� . . . . . . . . . . . . .   75
+
+    XIX. Circ� Instructs Odysseus Concerning His Descent to
+           Hades . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   78
+
+     XX. The Adventures of Odysseus in Hades . . . . . . . . . .   84
+
+    XXI. Odysseus Converses with His Mother and Agamemnon  . . .   87
+
+   XXII. Conversation with Achilles and Other Heroes . . . . . .   90
+
+  XXIII. The Return of Odysseus to the Island of Circ� . . . . .   94
+
+   XXIV. Odysseus Meets the Sirens, Skylla, and Charybdis  . . .   98
+
+    XXV. Odysseus on the Island of Helios  . . . . . . . . . . .  101
+
+   XXVI. The Departure of Odysseus from the Island of Scheria  .  105
+
+  XXVII. Odysseus Arrives at Ithaca  . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  108
+
+ XXVIII. Odysseus Seeks the Swineherd  . . . . . . . . . . . . .  113
+
+
+PART III
+THE TRIUMPH OF ODYSSEUS
+
+CHAPTER                                                          PAGE
+   XXIX. Athena Advises Telemachos . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  123
+
+    XXX. Telemachos Astonishes the Wooers  . . . . . . . . . . .  128
+
+   XXXI. Penelope's Web  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  130
+
+  XXXII. The Journey of Telemachos . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  135
+
+ XXXIII. Telemachos in Pylos . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  138
+
+  XXXIV. Telemachos in Sparta  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  141
+
+   XXXV. Menelaos Relates His Adventures . . . . . . . . . . . .  147
+
+  XXXVI. The Conspiracy of the Suitors . . . . . . . . . . . . .  151
+
+ XXXVII. Telemachos Returns to Ithaca  . . . . . . . . . . . . .  155
+
+XXXVIII. Telemachos and the Swineherd  . . . . . . . . . . . . .  158
+
+  XXXIX. Telemachos Recognizes Odysseus  . . . . . . . . . . . .  161
+
+     XL. Telemachos Returns to the Palace  . . . . . . . . . . .  165
+
+    XLI. Odysseus is Recognized by His Dog . . . . . . . . . . .  169
+
+   XLII. Odysseus Comes, a Beggar, to His Own House  . . . . . .  172
+
+  XLIII. Conversation of Odysseus and Penelope . . . . . . . . .  176
+
+   XLIV. Eurycleia Recognizes Odysseus . . . . . . . . . . . . .  180
+
+    XLV. Penelope's Dream  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  183
+
+   XLVI. Athena Encourages Odysseus  . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  185
+
+  XLVII. The Last Banquet of the Suitors . . . . . . . . . . . .  188
+
+ XLVIII. Odysseus Bends the Bow  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  194
+
+   XLIX. Death of the Suitors  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  201
+
+      L. Eurycleia Announces the Return of Odysseus to Penelope   203
+
+     LI. Odysseus Visits His Father  . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  209
+
+         Vocabulary and Notes  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  215
+
+
+
+
+LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS
+
+
+ODYSSEUS AS A YOUTH AT HOME WITH HIS MOTHER  . . . . . . Frontispiece
+
+                                                          FACING PAGE
+THE SILVER-FOOTED THETIS RISING FROM THE WAVES . . . . . . . . .   10
+
+ODYSSEUS AND MENELAOS PERSUADING AGAMEMNON TO SACRIFICE
+           IPHIGENEIA  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   12
+
+ALPHEUS AND ARETHUSA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  113
+
+THE SWINEHERD TELLING HIS STORY TO ODYSSEUS  . . . . . . . . . .  119
+
+ODYSSEUS FEIGNS MADNESS  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  146
+
+
+
+
+INTRODUCTION
+
+
+It has long been the opinion of many of the more progressive teachers
+of the United States that, next to Herakles, Odysseus is the hero
+closest to child-life, and that the stories from the "Odyssey" are
+the most suitable for reading-lessons. These conclusions have been
+reached through independent experiments not related to educational
+work in foreign countries.
+
+While sojourning in Athens I had the pleasure of visiting the best
+schools, both public and private, and found the reading especially
+spirited. I examined the books in use and found the regular
+reading-books to consist of the classic tales of the country, the
+stories of Herakles, Theseus, Perseus, and so forth, in the reader
+succeeding the primer, and the stories of Odysseus, or Ulysses, as
+we commonly call him, following as a third book, answering to our
+second or third reader. This book I brought home with me and had a
+careful, literal translation made. I submitted this translation to
+that notable scholar, Zena�de A. Ragozin, with whom I faithfully
+traversed the ground, word by word and sentence by sentence. This
+version I have carefully compared with Bryant and rewritten, making
+the language as simple as could be consistent with the dignity of
+the subject-matter.
+
+The introduction to the original book as I found it in Greece contains
+many interesting points, since it shows that educators in foreign
+countries, notably in Germany, had come to the same conclusion with
+our best American teachers. The editor of the little Greek
+reading-book says:
+
+"In editing this work we have made use not only of Homer's 'Odyssey,'
+_but also of that excellent reader which is used in the public schools
+of Germany_, Willman's 'Lesebuch aus Homer.' We have divided the
+little volume into three parts, the first of which gives a short
+_resum�_ of the war against Troy and the destruction of that city,
+the second the wanderings of Odysseus till his arrival in Ithaca,
+the third his arrival and the killing of the wooers. We have no apology
+to make in presenting this book to the public as a school-book, since
+many people superior to us have shown the need of such books in
+school-work. The new public schools, as is well known, have a mission
+of the highest importance. They do not aim, as formerly, at absolute
+knowledge pounded into the heads of children in a mechanical way.
+Their aim is the mental and ethical development of the pupils. Reading
+and writing lead but half way to this goal. With all nations the
+readers used in the public schools are a collection of the noblest
+thoughts of their authors."
+
+The Greek editor had never read the inane rat and cat stories of
+American school "readers" when he wrote that. He continues:
+
+"Happily the Greek nation, more than any other, abounds in literary
+masterpieces. Nearly all of the Greek writings contain an abundance
+of practical wisdom and virtue. Their worth is so great that even
+the most advanced European nations do not hesitate to introduce them
+into their schools. The Germans do this, although their habits and
+customs are so different from ours. They especially admire Homer's
+works. These books, above all others, afford pleasure to the young,
+and the reason for it is clearly set forth by the eminent educator
+Herbart:
+
+"'The little boy is grieved when told that he is little. Nor does
+he enjoy the stories of little children. This is because his
+imagination reaches out and beyond his environments. I find the
+stories from Homer to be more suitable reading for young children
+than the mass of juvenile books, because they contain grand truths.'
+
+"Therefore these stories are held in as high esteem by the German
+children as by the Greek. In no other works do children find the grand
+and noble traits in human life so faithfully and charmingly depicted
+as in Homer. Here all the domestic, civic, and religious virtues of
+the people are marvellously brought to light and the national feeling
+is exalted. The Homeric poetry, and especially the 'Odyssey,' is
+adapted to very young children, not only because it satisfies so well
+the needs which lead to mental development, but also for another
+reason. As with the people of olden times bravery was considered the
+greatest virtue, so with boys of this age and all ages. No other
+ethical idea has such predominance as that of prowess. Strength of
+body and a firm will characterize those whom boys choose as their
+leaders. Hence the pleasure they derive from the accounts of
+celebrated heroes of yore whose bravery, courage, and prudence they
+admire."
+
+The editor further extols the advantages arising from the study of
+Homer, it making the youthful students acquainted with the earliest
+periods of Greek history, the manners and customs of the people, and
+he ends by quoting from Herbart:
+
+"Boys must first get acquainted with the noisy market-place of Ithaca
+and then be led to the Athens of Miltiades and Themistokles."
+
+With equal truth the American can say that the child whose patriotism
+is kindled by the Homeric fire will the more gladly respond to the
+ideals set forth in the history of a Columbus or a Washington.
+
+MARY E. BURT.
+
+
+
+
+PART I
+AN INTRODUCTION TO THE LIFE OF THE HERO, ODYSSEUS
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER I
+ABOUT TROY AND THE JOURNEY OF PARIS TO GREECE
+
+
+On the northern shore of Asia Minor there lies a plateau watered by
+many small rivers and surrounded on all sides by mountains, only on
+the north it slopes gently to the sea. On this plateau, between the
+Simois and Scamandros rivers, in the oldest times there stood a very
+rich and powerful city, whose name was Troy. It was the capital of
+a large and fertile district, known as the Troad.
+
+There, about 1200 B.C., reigned a king by the name of Priam, possessed
+of great power and boundless wealth. He had many sons and daughters.
+It was said, indeed, that he had fifty sons who were all married and
+living in their own homes, which they had built by the king's wish
+around the royal palace.
+
+They were all handsome and heroic young men. One of the youngest,
+Paris, also named Alexandros, surpassed the others in beauty. He was
+a restless youth and not fond of his home, as were the others. He
+had set his heart on travelling and seeing strange countries and
+cities. King Priam was extremely fond of his large family, and took
+pride in having all his children about him, so that at first he was
+greatly opposed to the wishes of Paris.
+
+But the youth was so persistent and unhappy that the king at last
+consented to let him go. Without delay, Paris called together a few
+friends with tastes as adventurous as his own. They embarked in a
+new ship well provided with all that travellers need, and set sail
+for the famous land on the shores of the �gean Sea, of which they
+had heard so many wonderful things, and which was called Hellas.
+
+Nearly in the middle of the plain which forms the southern part of
+Hellas was the city of Sparta. It was on the river Eurotas, and was
+the capital of a large district called Laced�mon, and it was to this
+city that Paris came.
+
+Now, there was a mysterious reason for this strange desire of
+Paris--his passionate longing to travel. In his early youth, while
+he was still minding his herds on the rich pastures of Mount Ida,
+he received a visit from the three greatest goddesses of Olympos.
+
+Hera, the queen of Heaven and consort of Zeus--Athena, the goddess
+of wisdom, and Zeus's favorite daughter--and Aphrodite, the goddess
+of love and beauty, had a dispute among themselves.
+
+Each thought herself the most beautiful of the three, and they would
+have come to high words about it had not Athena proposed that they
+should ask the handsomest man in the world to settle the question.
+This happened to be the young royal shepherd, Paris. So the three
+goddesses floated down to the slope of Mount Ida on a snowy cloud
+and placed the question before him, each promising to reward him
+royally if he gave his verdict in her favor.
+
+Paris, as might have been expected, decided in favor of Aphrodite,
+who had promised him that the fairest woman living in the whole world
+should be his wife. This promise had to be kept, being given by a
+goddess, but it was the source of endless misfortune, for Paris had
+a young and lovely wife who was tenderly attached to him, while the
+fairest of living women--acknowledged as such by fame in all known
+countries--was Queen Helen of Sparta, herself the wife of another
+man.
+
+Her husband was one of the most renowned heroes of Hellas, King
+Menelaos, a son of Atreus and brother of the leader of the Greek chiefs,
+Agamemnon, King of Mycen�. It was Aphrodite, then, who inspired Paris
+with an insane desire to forsake his parents, brothers, and wife.
+It was her secret guidance which led him across the seas and through
+the dangers lurking among the hundreds of islands of the Archipelagos
+straight to the land of Laced�mon. This is the central of the three
+peninsulas in which the Peloponnesus ends, and might be called the
+middle finger of that large hand of which Arcadia is the palm.
+
+Paris landed, with all his companions, on the shores of Laced�mon,
+where the people received him kindly and helped him on his journey
+to Sparta, where Menelaos and Helen gave him a cordial welcome.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER II
+THE FLIGHT OF HELEN
+
+
+Aphrodite, while leading Paris to the shores of Laced�mon, had not
+forgotten her promise, and in Sparta itself she was at work at its
+fulfilment. She inspired Queen Helen with a growing discontent and
+restlessness of spirit. Menelaos had not noticed any change in her,
+and it was with an utterly unsuspicious mind that he received the
+fatal strangers and made them welcome guests in his land and home.
+
+More than that, having heard the news from Crete that his presence
+there was desirable on account of some urgent business, he did not
+hesitate to set sail for that island, in the expectation of finding
+Paris and his companions still enjoying the hospitality of his palace
+after a short absence.
+
+This was the chance which wily Aphrodite had contrived for Paris.
+He took the hint and carried Helen away to his ship, together with
+as much treasure as they could lay hands on, and then they sailed
+for Troy. Little did he heed, in his mad desire to call the most
+beautiful woman in the world his wife, that she was already the wife
+of a hero who had received him as an honored guest in his house, and
+that he was about to destroy the peace and honor of his host.
+
+As soon as Menelaos heard of the flight of his wife, he hastened back
+to Sparta, where he found his palace deserted and his treasure-house
+robbed.
+
+Then his heart was filled with great wrath. He set out at once to
+see his brother, Agamemnon, to consult with him about what was to
+be done. Agamemnon was ruler over Mycen�, and highly respected in
+all Hellas on account of his power and riches.
+
+After the two brothers had talked over this grave affair, they
+announced to all the leaders in Hellas the great and detestable crime,
+and asked them for their assistance. All the king's chiefs of Hellas
+lent a willing ear to this demand, for in this breach of hospitality,
+committed against one of them, each felt himself personally aggrieved
+and bound to help in the punishment of what, in those times, was
+considered the most unpardonable of all crimes. Only one of the kings
+held back for awhile and needed much persuasion to join the league.
+This was Odysseus of Ithaca, who could well consider himself at the
+time the happiest of mortals, for he had lately married Penelope,
+one of the fairest and most virtuous maidens of Greece. He had an
+infant son of great beauty and promise, and he owned much land and
+countless herds of cattle, sheep, and swine. Added to that, all the
+petty nobles of the island acknowledged him as their chief.
+
+But a soothsayer, or seer, had greatly disturbed him by informing
+him that if he went to a great war he would be kept away from his
+home for the space of twenty years, and even then return to it in
+the guise of a beggar, after having suffered wrecks, captivity,
+endless wanderings, and loss of comrades.
+
+No one could doubt that Odysseus was brave, but no one could blame
+him for wishing to be excused from taking part in the war against
+Troy. Menelaos and his brother, however, would accept no excuse from
+him, as he was the wisest and craftiest of all the leaders, and when
+Odysseus finally consented to join them he set about arming and
+directing the young Greek warriors with all his heart and soul.
+
+There was another young prince whom it was absolutely necessary to
+secure, for a much venerated oracle had given it as a decree of the
+gods that Troy could never be taken without his help. This was Achilles,
+son of Peleus, king of the Myrmidons in Thessaly, and of the beauteous
+ocean nymph, Thetis. Notwithstanding his extreme youth, his father
+would not disappoint the whole country, and he let him go with those
+who came for him. But he sent along with him his adopted son, Patroklos,
+who was several years older, and to whom the boy was passionately
+attached, and also his oldest and most trusted servant, Phoenix. These
+two, the old man and the youth, he charged, as they hoped for the
+mercy of Zeus, to keep watchful guard over Achilles, whose exceedingly
+impetuous and reckless temper exposed him to many dangers which might
+be averted by a sensible and loving word spoken in time.
+
+[Illustration: THE SILVER-FOOTED THETIS RISING FROM THE WAVES]
+
+The Greeks took counsel together, and it was resolved that Menelaos
+should go in person to Troy and demand back his wife, Helen, as well
+as his treasure and a suitable apology for the wrong done to him and
+to all Hellas. He chose for his companion the cunning Odysseus. On
+their arrival in Troy, Menelaos and Odysseus presented themselves
+before Priam and demanded the return of Helen and the treasures.
+
+The king at once called his people together to deliberate upon the
+matter, and the two Greek kings bravely denounced the mean act of
+Paris. But the Trojans, stirred up by that youth, abused the
+ambassadors and drove them out of their city.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER III
+THE GREEKS SAIL FOR TROY
+
+
+The kings and chieftains of Hellas, having heard that Odysseus and
+Menelaos had been driven out of Troy, hastened to call together their
+fleets and armies at Aulis, a city of Boeotia on a ridge of rock running
+out into the sea between two little bays, each of which was a harbor
+for many ships. A hundred thousand men and a thousand ships were
+gathered there under the leadership of the celebrated and heroic
+chiefs. The commander-in-chief of the whole army was Agamemnon.
+
+Among the renowned leaders were Menelaos, the sagacious Odysseus,
+Ajax, and many others. Just as they were offering a sacrifice to the
+gods, in order to start out to the war with their good will, a great
+miracle happened. A fearful snake crept from under the altar and
+climbed a tree in which there was a sparrow's nest nearly hidden by
+the leaves. There were eight young sparrows in the nest, nine birds
+with the mother. The snake devoured the fluttering little birds,
+around which the mother circled as if overcome by grief.
+
+Then the snake darted at the mother-bird and swallowed it, when Zeus
+changed the reptile into a stone. The Greeks wondered at the sight,
+but the soothsayer, Calchas, said to them: "Why do ye wonder at this?
+The all-powerful Zeus has sent us this sign because our deeds shall
+live forever in the minds of men. Just as the snake has devoured the
+eight little sparrows and their mother, so shall the war swallow up
+the nine coming years, and in the tenth we shall overcome Troy."
+
+The ships of the Greeks lay in the bays of Aulis while the warriors
+waited impatiently to set sail. But the winds were contrary; they
+would not blow, and the boats waited there year after year; for a
+sacred hind had been slain by Agamemnon, one that belonged to the
+goddess Artemis, and it was ordered by that goddess that no wind should
+arise to take them on toward Troy until her wrath had been appeased.
+
+So Agamemnon went to Calchas, the seer, and asked his advice,
+whereupon the old prophet told him to send for his lovely young
+daughter, Iphigeneia, and offer her up on the altar as the only
+acceptable sacrifice to Artemis. When he had placed her upon the altar
+and the priest was raising his knife, the goddess took pity on
+Agamemnon and carried the girl away in a cloud, leaving a fine white
+doe instead.
+
+[Illustration: ODYSSEUS AND MENELAOS PERSUADING AGAMEMNON TO
+SACRIFICE IPHIGENEIA]
+
+And now arose a favorable wind, and the Greeks arrived safely before
+Troy. How they fought with the Trojans, how many of the heroes outlived
+the struggle, and how many fell in the battle, all this we can learn
+from an old book called the "Iliad." We shall select from it only
+those things which refer to our hero, Odysseus; and to complete the
+history of that hero we shall go to another book, called the "Odyssey."
+
+Both of these books are the work of the great poet Homer, who lived
+many years after the war with Troy. That we may understand better
+what happened later on, we must give a short account of the fall of
+Troy and of the return of Menelaos and Agamemnon to their own country.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IV
+THE FALL OF TROY
+
+
+The war lasted nine years, and in the tenth the Greeks conquered Troy,
+not in battle, but by means of a trick which had come into the mind
+of Odysseus. He told a skilful carpenter to build a wooden horse of
+gigantic size, and in it he hid the bravest Greek warriors. When he
+had done this he advised all the other Greeks to depart without leaving
+anything behind them, and so lead the Trojans to believe that they
+had given up the fight and gone home.
+
+So the Greeks burned their tents and put off to sea, while the Trojans
+from their walls watched them with great joy, thinking themselves
+well rid of an enemy. When the last ship had gone, the Trojans threw
+open the gates of their city and rushed down into the plain where
+the Greeks had had their camp, to see how the place looked.
+
+There they found the wooden horse, and one of the Greeks tied to a
+tree, who told them he was left there as a punishment, and that the
+wooden horse was an offering to the gods. The Trojans made up their
+minds to carry it into their city and give it the best place on their
+highest hill.
+
+Then Laoco�n, a priest of Apollo, stepped forth, and said to them:
+"Unhappy people! what madness possesses you? Do ye think the enemy
+gone? Do ye know Odysseus so little? There are Greek warriors hidden
+in this horse, or else some other mischief is lurking there. Fear
+the Greeks even when they bring gifts."
+
+With these words, he thrust his spear into the flank of the horse,
+and the arms of the hidden enemy clashed with a loud noise. Just then
+two snakes of great size, sent by Athena, rose from the sea, and sprang
+upon Laoco�n and his two sons, and, coiling around them, bit them
+to death. The Trojans, in great fear at the sight, took this as a
+sign from the gods that the horse was sacred and that they must protect
+it, and they moved it at once into their city, breaking down a part
+of their wall to get it in.
+
+Having done this, they gave themselves up to feasting and making merry,
+without the slightest thought that any evil was in store for them.
+But when night had come, and all were in a deep sleep, the ships of
+the Greeks, which had been hiding all the while behind a neighboring
+island, came back. The warriors who were concealed in the wooden horse
+sprang out and rushing wildly through the city, slew the Trojans right
+and left without mercy. From all sides came wailings and groans, and
+the flames of the burning city rose up to the sky.
+
+A deadly struggle took place between the Trojans and the Greeks. Priam
+was slain, and Paris and many other heroes. The victory was to the
+Greeks. Troy fell never to rise again, and the women and children
+were led off to become slaves to their conquerors.
+
+Thus was destroyed in one night the great and glorious city of Troy,
+all on account of the crime which Paris had committed against the
+laws of hospitality.
+
+The trials of the Greeks were not yet at an end. After their victory
+at Troy they embarked in their ships and started eagerly for their
+homes. But Zeus prepared a sad fate for them, because Ajax had
+violently dragged Cassandra, the beautiful daughter of Priam, from
+the altar of Athena and had made her his slave. Thus many of the leaders
+perished in the sea far from home, and some were cast on foreign shores
+to die.
+
+Menelaos was thrown by wind and waves on the island of Crete, and
+he lost many of the ships on the cliffs. Thence he strayed to the
+island of Cyprus, noted for its mines; and he roved through other
+lands until he came to Egypt, where he wandered about for eight years,
+when he returned to Sparta, taking Helen with him. He became
+reconciled to his wife, and they lived a quiet life far removed from
+the enchantments of the wily Aphrodite.
+
+But the saddest fate of all overtook Agamemnon, who met his death
+in his own house at the hands of his wife and brother.
+
+Agamemnon, without any accident at sea, reached his native land. Full
+of gratitude, he kissed the earth and wept tears of joy at the thought
+of meeting his wife and son.
+
+He entered his home with a glad heart, and his faithless wife came
+to meet him, but she had prepared a hot bath for him, and there he
+met his death, entangled in a net which she threw over him, for she
+had not forgotten the loss of her beautiful daughter, Iphigeneia,
+whom she believed to have been offered up as a sacrifice on the altar
+of Artemis.
+
+She was assisted in this dreadful deed by her husband's brother, who
+became ruler over the land, holding sway eight years, when Orestes,
+the son of Agamemnon, slew him and regained the kingdom.
+
+And now we come to the return of Odysseus, the wisest of the Greeks,
+who wandered to the remotest part of the earth and learned the customs
+of many people, and who suffered terrible things by land and sea.
+
+
+
+
+PART II
+THE RETURN OF ODYSSEUS TO HIS OWN COUNTRY
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER V
+ODYSSEUS ON THE ISLAND OF CALYPSO
+
+
+All the Greeks who had escaped from the destruction of Troy and had
+been spared the terrors of the sea returned to their homes. But the
+unfortunate Odysseus was delayed by the fair nymph Calypso on her
+island, where she made her home in a cool and beautiful grotto. There
+he wept and mourned, desiring to see his wife again and his native
+land. Each of the gods save one, Poseidon, god of the sea, wished
+to help him to find the way home. Odysseus had brought Poseidon's
+wrath upon himself through inflicting a terrible injury upon the
+favorite son of that deity, and for that reason the wrath of the god
+fell on him and he was wrecked. One day all the other gods had assembled
+in the hall of Zeus, on Mount Olympos, when Athena, the favorite
+daughter of Zeus and firm friend of Odysseus, knowing that her father
+in his heart was well-disposed toward the hero, began to plead for
+him in a way to excite greater pity still.
+
+"O my father, thou great king among the gods," she said, "my heart
+is troubled on account of the wise Odysseus, who lingers on an island,
+far away from home, and suffers greatly; for a nymph lives on the
+island, the daughter of great Atlas, and with sweet words she strives
+to make Odysseus forget his native land. But he bewails his fate and
+is full of sorrow, his only wish being to have a glimpse of the smoke
+of his beloved country."
+
+Zeus thereupon ordered Hermes to depart at once for the island and
+tell the nymph to send Odysseus to his home without delay. Hermes
+obeyed quickly. He bound his winged sandals to his feet, and, taking
+his golden wand in his hand, flew like a meteor over land and sea
+till he reached the island where the nymph Calypso made her abode.
+He found her within the grotto, singing sweetly while she wove a fine
+web on a golden loom.
+
+All about the grotto there was a grove of cypress-trees in which birds
+of gay colors were sporting and springs of pure water bubbling, and
+the fragrance of strange flowers filled the air. When Hermes had gazed
+upon these wonders he entered the grotto. It was bright with a blazing
+fire on a spacious hearth, and fragrant with the odor of burning cedar
+and cypress.
+
+Calypso saw him as he came in and knew him. She bade him sit down
+on a throne dazzling with jewels, and, placing a table before him
+laden with nectar and ambrosia, invited him to eat and drink. After
+he had finished his repast, Hermes told her that Zeus had sent him
+to her with the command that she should send Odysseus without delay
+to his native land. Having given this message, he disappeared, leaving
+Calypso in great grief.
+
+Odysseus in the meantime sat by the shore mourning and gazing out
+upon the sea. Calypso found him there, sitting alone, weeping and
+longing for his home. She stood by him and said: "Odysseus, my unhappy
+friend, do not waste thy life any longer in sorrow. The end of thy
+grief has come. Arise and prepare to depart for thy home. Build thee
+a raft of the trunks of trees which thou shalt hew down. I will put
+bread and water and delicate wine on board; and I will clothe thee
+in comfortable garments, and send a favorable wind that thou mayest
+safely reach thy native land."
+
+Thus spoke the lovely goddess, but Odysseus could hardly believe her,
+and said: "I fear, O goddess, that thou hast some other thought in
+thy mind, and that thou dost not wish to send me home when thou biddest
+me sail over this stormy and dangerous sea. I shall never go on to
+the raft against thy wish, and thou must swear the great oath of the
+gods that no harm shall come to me."
+
+The goddess smiled at these words, and, taking the hero by the hand,
+rejoined: "Thou art a wise man, and thy answer is well made. I will
+pledge thee a solemn oath, by the heavens and the earth, and the waters
+of the Styx, that I have no plan of evil against thee. And I advise
+thee to do as I have instructed thee, to be ready for any crisis."
+
+Speaking thus, the goddess went into the grotto and Odysseus followed
+her. When he had come into the spacious hall, he sat down on his throne
+and the nymph brought him rich food and wine. Then she took a seat
+opposite him, and her attendants brought her ambrosia and nectar,
+which she would gladly have shared with Odysseus, that he, too, might
+become an immortal.
+
+When the repast was over, Calypso narrated to him all the trials he
+would have to undergo before he could reach his native land. While
+she was relating these things the sun sank down, and darkness came
+upon the island, and all who had their abode in the grotto sought
+rest and slumber.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VI
+ODYSSEUS CONSTRUCTS A RAFT AND LEAVES THE ISLAND
+
+
+At daybreak the goddess gave Odysseus a large axe and a sharp adze,
+and led him to the heights of the island, where the largest trees
+grew. He went to work at once and cut down twenty trees, which he
+hewed into proper shape, and then tied them together with ropes which
+he himself made of bark.
+
+In this way he built a raft which was very large and strong enough
+to stand the onset of the waves. He wove a railing of willow and fitted
+it around the sides of the raft, to protect himself against the dashing
+waves; and he raised a strong mast with sails shaped to it, and tightly
+bound by cords and ropes. He filled the crevices of the raft with
+wax and pitch and attached a rudder.
+
+At the end of the fourth day his work was all done, and his little
+ship was ready to be launched. On the fifth day the beautiful goddess
+prepared the hero a bath and gave him new garments fragrant with
+perfumes. She went down to the boat with him and put on board a skin
+of dark-red wine, a larger one full of water, and a bag of dainty
+food. Then she bade Odysseus a kind farewell, and sent a gentle and
+friendly wind to waft him over the waves.
+
+Odysseus was wild with joy at the thought that he was really on his
+way home once more. He spread his sails to catch the breeze and took
+his seat at the helm, steering the vessel with great skill. He did
+not dare to take any sleep, for he had to watch the sky and stars
+constantly and use them as guides on his course. He sailed along in
+this way seventeen days. On the eighteenth he spied land in the
+distance. It was the land of the Ph�acians, lying like a dark spot
+off in the sea.
+
+Then Poseidon, who was returning from Ethiopia, saw him, and his wrath
+grew hot against the hero. He raised up his head and said to himself:
+"Alas! the gods have strangely changed their minds about Odysseus
+during my absence in Africa. Behold! in a little while he will be
+in the land of the Ph�acians, where he will find an end to his troubles.
+Nevertheless, it is in my power to chastise him."
+
+Speaking thus, Poseidon called the clouds together, and seizing his
+trident he stirred up the sea; then he set loose all the winds until
+there was a general hurricane, and he wrapped heaven and earth in
+the thick darkness of night.
+
+The mighty waves dashed over the raft, and Odysseus sank on his knees
+and trembled. With a deep groan he said: "Ah me, unhappy! Am I to
+bear more disasters? I fear that the warning of the goddess was too
+true, and that I shall be for a long time cast about on the waves
+before I reach home. With what dark clouds Zeus has shrouded the sky!
+The storm grows wild. What terrible waves are these! Helplessly I
+must perish. Happy the Greeks who fell before Troy, fighting for their
+country! Would that I, too, had met death the day when the Trojans
+hurled their spears at me as they strove to take the body of Achilles.
+If I had died then, the Greeks would have buried me with great honors.
+Now I shall die an inglorious death."
+
+As he spoke a huge wave struck the raft with such terrible force that
+it whirled it around and overturned it. The helm was wrung from his
+hand and he fell into the angry breakers. The mast was snapped in
+two and the ropes and sails flew off into the sea.
+
+Odysseus was under water a long time, striving in vain to come to
+the surface. Finally he rose, spitting the bitter brine out of his
+mouth. Although he was in such a desperate plight, his mind was on
+the raft. Battling bravely with the waves he reached it, and springing
+on board sat down in the middle of it. Thus he escaped death.
+
+The angry waves tossed him hither and thither as the wind scatters
+the leaves over a field. Then Ino, the daughter of Cadmus, saw him
+and took pity on him. She took the form of a bird, and, perching on
+his raft, she said to him: "O, luckless man! why is Poseidon so angry
+with thee? Fear nothing, however; he cannot take thy life. Obey me
+and thou shalt not suffer much longer. Lay aside thy clothes, leave
+the raft to the mercy of the winds and waves, and swim to the land.
+Take my veil and wind it about thy breast, and thou shalt not have
+anything to fear. As soon as thou hast reached the land, take it off
+and throw it back into the sea. Then hurry away inland."
+
+Odysseus hesitated to follow Ino's advice, fearing some treachery.
+But Poseidon sent a huge wave which struck him and scattered the raft
+as if it were dry chaff. Then Odysseus at once got astride of the
+swimming timber. He bound the veil around his breast and bravely
+plunged into the boiling waters.
+
+Poseidon saw him, and shaking his head he said: "I verily believe
+thou wilt come out alive from the sea. But the sea has had thee long
+enough, so that thou wilt know its power hereafter and fear it." Saying
+this he lashed up his horses and drove off.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VII
+ODYSSEUS IS SAVED ON THE ISLAND OF SCHERIA
+
+
+Athena, the daughter of Zeus, seeing Odysseus struggling through the
+waves, pitied him, and bade the winds become quiet. Two days and two
+nights Odysseus floated about, but on the third the wind calmed down
+and the sea became smooth.
+
+In a short time he found himself near land once more. But the shore
+was wild and full of sharp rocks and high cliffs. He could see no
+place on which to set foot, and he grew downhearted. His knees gave
+way, and, groaning deeply, he cried out: "O, luckless one! In vain
+have I braved the dangers of the sea to escape death. Now all hope
+has abandoned me, since there is no way for me to get out of the water.
+I fear that when I try to approach the land the waves will throw me
+against the cliffs, and should I try to find a safe landing-place
+by swimming, the surf may carry me back into the wild sea, where some
+sea-monster will swallow me up. Whatever I may do, I see no help for
+me."
+
+While he pondered over these things a huge wave cast him on the foamy
+shore. His bones were nearly broken, and he lay exhausted until the
+wave returned, when he was hurled again with great force back into
+the sea. Now the unfortunate wanderer took to swimming as his last
+resort, and reached the mouth of a river, where he was able to land.
+
+Too tired to breathe or speak, he sank down in a swoon. His knees
+and arms trembled, and his whole body was bruised and swollen. When
+his senses returned he rose and untied the veil that Ino had given
+him and cast it back into the sea. Then he knelt down and kissed the
+earth, and moved to a sheltered spot where a wild and a tame olive-tree
+were standing close together, whose branches had mingled with one
+another, and there he found a safe hiding-place.
+
+Then the godlike Odysseus lay down on a bed of dry leaves, covering
+himself up as one does an ember, lest it should go out. Athena came
+and poured sweet sleep over his eyes, that he might find quiet rest
+after all his toils.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VIII
+NAUSICA� IS SENT TO THE RIVER BY ATHENA
+
+
+While Odysseus lay in a deep sleep, the goddess Athena went to the
+royal dwelling of the king of the Ph�acians, Alkino�s, in order to
+hasten the return of Odysseus to his native land. She entered the
+house, where she found Nausica�, the king's daughter, sleeping in
+her beautiful chamber. Near her lay two maids who served her.
+
+Athena came as softly as a breath of air, and caused the maiden to
+dream that her marriage-day was near and that it was her duty to arise
+and hasten to the place by the river where they washed their clothing.
+In her dream the princess seemed to hear Athena say: "Nausica�, why
+art thou so slothful? Thy beautiful robes lie neglected and thy
+wedding-day is at hand, on which thou surely shouldst wear garments
+of dazzling whiteness, and thou shouldst give such garments to those
+maidens who lead thee forth to thy bridegroom. Therefore, as soon
+as day breaks thou must ask thy father to give thee a pair of mules,
+and we will hasten to the washing-place down by the river."
+
+At the first dawn of day Nausica� went in haste to her father and
+mother to tell them of her dream. She found them in their splendid
+hall. Her mother sat with her maidens spinning, and the king stood
+on the threshold, just going forth to meet his chiefs in council.
+The princess approached her father and said: "Dearest father, I pray
+that thou wilt give me two mules and a wagon, that I may go with my
+maids to the river and take all the clothes that need washing, for
+it becomes the king and his sons to wear clean garments when they
+go to the council of the chiefs. Thou hast five sons, three of whom
+are youths not wedded, and they should be provided with fresh robes;
+they will need them in the dance."
+
+The king smiled, for he saw what was in her mind, and he ordered the
+mules. Then his beautiful daughter brought from the linen-room the
+soiled garments and put them on the wagon, while the queen prepared
+a goodly lunch of cold meat and bread and a skin of sweet wine.
+
+Nausica� further received from her mother a bottle of fragrant oil
+with which to anoint herself after the washing. Then she mounted the
+wagon, seized the whip and reins, and drove out of the city, the
+maidens of her train following her on foot.
+
+When they came to the place where the river was flowing bright and
+clear, they unhitched the mules and let them browse along the bank.
+Then they took their garments down from the wagon and tossed them
+into the marble vats which they had filled with the limpid water of
+the stream. When they had washed them clean they spread them on the
+white pebbles to dry. Having finished the task, they took a bath and
+anointed themselves with oil. Then they sat down on the shore and
+ate their lunch.
+
+The repast over, they began to play ball. First the white-armed
+Nausica� threw the ball. She looked as tall and royal among her maids
+as did Artemis, the daughter of Zeus, among her nymphs.
+
+Nausica� sang a song as they frolicked on the sand.
+
+When it was time to go home they put the clean garments upon the wagon
+and harnessed up the mules. Just as they started, Nausica� once more
+threw the ball to one of the maidens, who failed to catch it. The
+ball rebounded from the rocks and fell into the river, at which the
+girls raised such a shout that Odysseus, who was sleeping close by,
+awoke.
+
+He opened his eyes and sat up, saying to himself: "Woe is me! Have
+I reached a country where people dwell? Are they wild and inhospitable,
+or friendly to the stranger and god-fearing? It seems to me I heard
+cries of women. Perhaps they were those of the nymphs who inhabit
+the mountain heights, the springs of rivers, and the green meadows,
+or those of people who live near by. But I will see who they are."
+
+So Odysseus clothed himself as best he could, by winding slender
+branches covered with leaves about him, and left the thicket where
+he was hidden. He went in the direction of the voices, stalking along
+like a great lion. When the girls saw him they shrieked and scattered
+in every direction. Nausica� alone stood her ground, for Athena gave
+her courage. When Odysseus saw her he wondered which would be the
+better, to throw himself at the feet of the maiden and beg her to
+give him some clothes and to show him the way to the city, or to speak
+to her with more formality.
+
+It seemed better to him to remain at a distance, and so he addressed
+her gently, saying: "O queen, I know not whether thou art a goddess
+or a woman. If thou art a goddess, I should take thee to be Artemis,
+because thou art so tall and graceful. If, however, thou art a mortal,
+thrice happy thy father and honored mother. Greatly must they rejoice
+when they see their beautiful child in the choral dance. But he will
+be the happiest who shall win thee for a bride.
+
+"I once saw a young palm-tree growing up beside Apollo's altar in
+the island of Delos. It was the most beautiful tree the earth ever
+produced, and I gazed upon it with wonder and reverence. So am I amazed
+at thy beauty, and I fear to approach thee and throw myself as a
+suppliant at thy feet, although I am in sore distress, for great
+misfortunes have befallen me.
+
+"It was only last night that I escaped from the sea. On my way from
+Calypso's isle I was driven about for twenty days by the angry waves
+in a violent storm. Now some god has cast me on this shore to make
+me undergo new trials, for I do not believe my sufferings have come
+to an end. Have pity on me, O queen, because thou art the first human
+being I have met after so many misfortunes.
+
+"I do not know one person in this country. Show me thy city, I pray,
+and give me an old robe to wear, no matter how coarse and poor, and
+may the gods bestow all blessings upon thee."
+
+Nausica� looked at Odysseus in pity and answered: "Stranger, thou
+dost not seem to me to be a man of mean birth or breeding, and thou
+art surely in distress. But it is Zeus who distributes gifts to mortals,
+both the good and the evil things of life, and thou must submit to
+his will with patience.
+
+"Since thou hast come into our land devoid of all things, even garments,
+and art helpless, I will give thee clothing and tell thee the way
+to the city. And I will tell thee about the people living in it, for
+I am the daughter of the king, Alkino�s, who reigns over this island."
+When Nausica� had spoken thus to Odysseus, she turned to her maids
+and commanded them not to flee from the wanderer, but to bring him
+food and drink, since Zeus sent the poor and the stranger to be cared
+for.
+
+And she told them to lead him to some lonely spot by the side of the
+river, where he might bathe at his ease. So the maids came back and
+led the hero to a sheltered place and laid a cloak and tunic on the
+sand, and the bottle of oil which the queen had given Nausica�, that
+Odysseus might anoint and clothe himself after his bath; then they
+ran back to the princess.
+
+Odysseus bathed in the fresh water of the river and washed the salt
+sea-foam from his hair, and when the bath was over he put on the robes
+that Nausica� had sent. Athena shed a halo of beauty over him and
+caused him to look taller and stronger than before.
+
+As he walked along the beach to rejoin the maidens, they admired his
+noble and kingly bearing, and Nausica� said to her maids: "Surely
+this man does not come among our godlike brothers against the will
+of the gods. I thought him rough and homely, but now he seems like
+one of the immortals. I would that I might call a man like him my
+husband. Make haste to give him food and wine, for he has fasted a
+long time."
+
+The maids hastened to obey. They looked over what was left of the
+abundant lunch and bade Odysseus eat and drink, which he was glad
+to do. The princess then yoked up the mules and they started for home.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IX
+ODYSSEUS ARRIVES AT THE PALACE OF ALKINO�S
+
+
+After Nausica� had mounted to her seat on the cart, she said to
+Odysseus: "Get ready now, stranger, and we will lead thee to my
+father's palace, where thou wilt meet the chiefs of the Ph�acians.
+If thou art wise, take well to heart what I shall say to thee. As
+long as we are at a good distance from the city there is no harm in
+going along with us. Just follow close to the wagon with my maids.
+
+"But when we come near to the town thou must go more slowly and tarry
+behind a little, till we have reached my father's hall, because I
+dread the gossip of the baser sort of people whom we may meet. After
+thou hast seen us enter the city, then thou mayest enter it also and
+inquire the way to the king's palace. It is very beautiful. Thou mayest
+easily find it by thyself, for there is no other house in the city
+as large as ours.
+
+"Enter at once and find my mother and sue to her for protection and
+help, that thou mayest reach thy native land and thy dear ones again."
+
+Having spoken these words, Nausica� touched the mules with her long
+whip and they quickly left the river, wending their way toward the
+city. They reached it at sunset, but Odysseus sat down in the sacred
+grove of Athena, outside of the city to wait, and prayed to the goddess
+that he might receive pity from the people of Ph�acia.
+
+While he prayed, the damsels went on and soon reached the king's palace.
+Nausica�'s brothers came out and welcomed them, and unhitched the
+mules. When Odysseus had given them time to get home, he arose and
+found his way to the town. He had hardly entered it when Athena, in
+the form of a young girl carrying a pitcher of water, met him.
+
+"My daughter," Odysseus said to her, "canst thou show me the way to
+the king's palace? I am a stranger, and here for the first time."
+Athena answered him: "With pleasure, stranger; the king is our
+neighbor. Follow me, and I will lead thee thither. But on the way
+do not greet anyone or ask questions, for the people here are not
+fond of those who come from other lands."
+
+Thus spoke Athena and pursued her way with Odysseus following her.
+She threw a veil of darkness over the hero to hide him from rude gazers.
+Odysseus beheld the beautiful port with astonishment--the large
+ships, the great market-place, and the high walls of the city.
+
+When they reached the palace, the girl stopped and said: "This is
+the house of the king. Go in without any fear, for they love brave
+men, even when they come from afar. The first thing to do is to find
+the queen, whose name is Aret�.
+
+"She is greatly honored by the king, and all the people treat her
+as if she were a goddess, on account of her gentleness and virtue.
+In case the queen looks upon thee with favor, thou mayest be sure
+of safely reaching home."
+
+Having spoken these words, the goddess took a friendly leave of the
+hero, and he entered the outer hall of Alkino�s, where he was
+bewildered by the splendor. The walls were of brass, the doors of
+gold, and the thresholds and lintels of pure silver. On each side
+of the main entrance gold and silver dogs stood guard. They were
+endowed with life and were immortal, the work and gift of the divine
+Heph�stus.
+
+There were two rows of splendid seats in the large dining-hall. They
+were covered with costly mats, and the Ph�acian leaders were wont
+to sit there and enjoy themselves. Golden statues of boys with lighted
+torches in their hands stood on beautiful pedestals and spread light
+over the merry banquets. There were fifty maid-servants in the palace.
+Some of them were grinding corn in the mill. Some spent their time
+in spinning and weaving, for as the men were renowned sailors, the
+women also were famous for making fine cloth.
+
+There was a large orchard all around the palace, surrounded by a thick
+hedge. In the orchard there was a great variety of fruit-trees--pear,
+apple, pomegranate, olive, and fig. The trees were never bare of fruit,
+either in summer or in winter, for an ever-blowing west wind created
+such a mild climate that the trees were constantly blooming and
+ripening their fruit.
+
+There was to be seen a tree full of blossoms, while another bent down
+under the load of ripe fruit. Thus it was with the grape-vines in
+the vineyard close to the orchard. Some were blooming, others had
+only begun to form fruit-buds, while some were loaded with ripe
+clusters ready for the wine-press. At the end of the orchard there
+was a magnificent flower-garden, in which the most fragrant flowers
+were blooming. Two springs also bubbled from the ground. One watered
+the orchard, and the other ran to the very door of the palace, and
+all the people filled their pitchers there. Such were the gifts
+Alkino�s had received from the gods.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER X
+ODYSSEUS IN THE HALLS OF ALKINO�S
+
+
+After Odysseus had contemplated these wonders to his heart's content,
+he entered the main hall. There he found the leaders of the Ph�acians
+bringing offerings of wine to Hermes, as the hour of sleep had arrived,
+and this was always their last ceremony before seeking slumber. No
+one saw Odysseus as he crossed the spacious room and came close to
+the king and queen, for he was still concealed in the thick mist which
+Athena had thrown round him. Suddenly the cloud vanished, and Odysseus
+threw himself at the feet of Aret�, and raised his voice in
+supplication.
+
+"Aret�," he prayed, "I have come to thy husband and to thy feet through
+many hardships and sorrows. May the gods give thee a long and happy
+life. For many years I have been a wanderer from home and all I love.
+I beg that thou wilt give me a guide and send me to my own land."
+
+When Odysseus had spoken these words he sat down amidst the ashes,
+close to the fire, and all the guests grew silent and looked at him
+with wonder. Then the oldest of the chiefs arose and said: "Alkino�s,
+this is not a royal seat for a stranger, among the cinders of the
+hearth. I pray thee, raise him up and place him on a throne, and order
+the heralds to fill a cup with wine, that we may pour a libation to
+Zeus, the protector of suppliants, and bid the guest welcome to our
+good cheer."
+
+Then Alkino�s arose and took Odysseus by the hand. He led him to a
+splendid throne but little lower than his own, while the herald placed
+a table before him loaded with dainty food. When Odysseus had eaten
+and drunk, the attendants filled the cups to pour libations in honor
+of Zeus, and Alkino�s said to them: "Listen, ye leaders and chiefs
+of the Ph�acians. To-morrow we shall greet the stranger in our palace
+with honors and offer a great sacrifice to the gods. And then we will
+consider the best way of sending him home. But if we should find that
+he is a god instead of a mortal, we will do what seems best, for the
+gods do sometimes visit us in human shape."
+
+Then said Odysseus: "Nay, Alkino�s, I am not a god, nor like the gods
+in form or looks. I am only a wanderer, and I could tell of fearful
+sorrows; and I would willingly die if I could only see my home once
+more."
+
+The guests all greeted Odysseus with approving words, and promised
+to aid him. Then they rose, and each man went to his own home.
+
+Odysseus remained in the hall with Aret� and Alkino�s. As they
+conversed, the queen noticed the garments of Odysseus, because she
+had woven them herself, and she said to him: "Stranger, who art thou,
+and from what land? Didst thou not say thou hadst come here after
+many wanderings and voyages on the stormy sea? Who gave thee garments
+of my weaving?"
+
+Odysseus answered her: "It would not be easy, gracious queen, to tell
+about all my hardships and sufferings. Yet I will do thy bidding.
+I was shipwrecked long since, and thrown upon an island far out in
+the sea, where Calypso, the daughter of Atlas, lives. She cared for
+me most kindly, and would have made me, like herself, an immortal,
+but I chose instead the hope of seeing my own native land.
+
+"The goddess detained me seven long years on her island before she
+bade me start for home. I built a raft, which she stored with food,
+and she sent a pleasant breeze to carry me across the waters. But
+Poseidon stirred the winds and waves against me, and I was thrown
+upon the shores of this island, near the lavers, where thy daughter
+and her maids went to wash the household linen. There the princess
+found me, and supplied me with food and the garments I have on."
+
+"One duty my daughter left undone," Alkino�s said. "She should have
+brought thee home with her." "Do not blame her, I entreat," replied
+Odysseus, "for she bade me come with her maids, but I lingered in
+a grove to offer a prayer to Athena." When Alkino�s had heard this
+tale from Odysseus, he promised once more to give him a ship and
+sailors to escort him home.
+
+Meanwhile the queen bade her servants prepare a bed for the hero out
+on the portico, and they covered a couch with shaggy rugs and purple
+tapestries, where he could rest. With a grateful heart Odysseus arose,
+and, thanking the king for his generous hospitality, sought the bed,
+where he gave himself to happy dreams.
+
+Odysseus rose early the next morning and went with Alkino�s to the
+market-place, close to the sea, where all the Ph�acians had assembled.
+The people gazed with admiration at their stranger-guest, for Athena
+lent him greater dignity and beauty, and she went among the crowds,
+moving their hearts to sympathy with him.
+
+Alkino�s then addressed the assembled multitude: "Hear me, ye chiefs
+of the Ph�acians," he said. "This stranger has come to our land after
+many wanderings and adventures. And he asks me to send him back to
+his own country. Let us fit out a ship for him quickly and launch
+it, and give him fifty-two young men from among our best sailors,
+who shall get everything ready for the long journey.
+
+"While they are doing this the stranger shall come to my halls with
+the chiefs and princes, where we will make a great banquet. Summon
+also the bard, Demodokos, that he may enliven the festival with his
+harp and songs."
+
+Having spoken, Alkino�s rose and led his guest back to the palace,
+the princes following him. Fifty-two youths were soon chosen from
+among the best seamen, and they launched a ship speedily and went
+up to the royal palace.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XI
+THE BANQUET IN HONOR OF ODYSSEUS
+
+
+Alkino�s now ordered a sumptuous feast in honor of his guest. When
+the table was spread, the herald who had gone for Demodokos came in
+leading the bard, who was blind. The gods had deprived him of sight,
+but had bestowed upon him the gift of song. They gave him a seat on
+a silver throne, amid the guests, and hung his harp against a lofty
+pillar, close above his head, where he could easily reach it.
+
+When all had eaten and drunk as much as they desired, Demodokos took
+his lyre and began to sing about the heroes of Troy. It was a song
+whose fame had reached over the whole world, the story of a friendly
+strife between Achilles and Odysseus before Troy, in which Achilles
+held that Troy would fall by force, but Odysseus maintained that it
+would come to an end through the cunning of a few brave Greeks.
+
+All the guests enjoyed listening to the thrilling song, but Odysseus
+was deeply touched, and tears fell from his eyes. He brushed them
+away stealthily, so that no one should observe them, and drew a large
+purple veil over his face until the song was finished, when he put
+it away and took a goblet of wine, which he poured out on the ground
+as a libation to the gods.
+
+Again the minstrel took his harp and sang, and again Odysseus wept.
+Alkino�s noticed that the song of Demodokos moved Odysseus to tears,
+and thought it might be well to stay the music awhile and begin the
+games, that the stranger might witness the athletic skill of the
+Ph�acians. All the princes instantly arose and walked down to the
+market-place, the king leading and the people following.
+
+When the chiefs had taken their seats a great number of young men
+hastened forward to begin the games. Some of them darted over the
+plain in a foot-race, raising a cloud of dust. Others strove with
+all their might in wrestling-matches, while some threw the quoit or
+played at boxing and leaping. After they had enjoyed looking at the
+games, Laodamas, a son of Alkino�s, said to his friends: "Let us ask
+the stranger to take part in the games. His strong arms and legs and
+powerful neck show that he is no weakling. Nor has he lost his youthful
+vigor after all his hardships, although nothing tires a man so much
+as being tossed about on the sea."
+
+Then the friends of Laodamas advised him to challenge Odysseus to
+take part in the games; and this seemed right to the prince, so he
+said to him: "Father, I think thou must be skilful in these games.
+Let us see thee try them. We will not delay thee long. Thy ship is
+ready for thee on the sea, and the crew is there, waiting. But there
+is no greater glory or pleasure for a man than to excel in swiftness
+of foot and strength of muscle."
+
+Odysseus answered him: "Why dost thou urge me, O Laodamas? How can
+I take part in the games or find any pleasure in them after all that
+I have suffered? Here I sit, a suppliant, praying to be sent back
+to my wife and home." Then Euryalos scoffed at him, saying: "Thou
+art right, stranger, for thy countenance shows thou art anything but
+an athlete.
+
+"Methinks thou art the owner of some merchant-vessel. Thou art a
+trader, whose head is full of bargains. Such men can take heed of
+nothing except how to increase wealth."
+
+These mocking words vexed Odysseus, and he retorted: "My friend, thou
+dost not speak like a man of good mind. The gods do not bestow their
+gifts equally on all men. To thee they have given great beauty, but
+they have denied thee wit. Thy words carry no weight. Learn, then,
+that I am not unskilled in the games. When I was young and strong
+I was one of the best athletes. But even now, after all my shipwrecks
+and hardships, I will strive with thee, for thy words are offensive
+and challenge me to the proof."
+
+Having said this, Odysseus seized a much larger and heavier quoit
+than the Ph�acian prince could use, and swinging it in his powerful
+hand he hurled it forth. The stone whirred through the air and fell
+to the ground away beyond the marks of the other disks. Then Athena
+took the form of a Ph�acian and set a mark where the quoit fell, and
+exclaimed as she did so: "Stranger, even a blind man could easily
+find thy mark, for it is far beyond the others. Sit down in peace
+and do not fear that anybody else can throw so far." Odysseus was
+pleased when he heard these friendly words. With a light heart he
+said to the Ph�acian youths: "Reach my mark, if you can, young men,
+and I will send a stone farther yet. But if you cannot reach it, and
+prefer a match at boxing or wrestling or foot-race, come forth. I
+am ready to try any of the games with you. I can throw a spear farther
+than any of you can shoot an arrow. I fear nothing unless it may be
+the foot-race, for I have lost my strength with want of food and being
+tossed by the waves."
+
+He ended, and King Alkino�s stepped forward, for the young men were
+all silent. "Stranger," he said, "thou art our dearly loved guest,
+and no one can doubt thy bravery. We do not boast that we are fine
+boxers or wrestlers. We excel in the dance and are unsurpassed in
+sailing ships. Come, then, young men, show your skill in dancing,
+that our guest may tell his people when he reaches his home how much
+we outdo all others in that art. And let a herald hasten to the palace
+and bring the lyre of Demodokos, which has been left there."
+
+The young men arranged themselves in two rows on the polished floors
+and began the dance, while the minstrel, standing in their midst,
+played on the lyre and sang most sweetly. Odysseus looked on and
+greatly admired the swift and rhythmical movements of their feet.
+All danced very well; but two of the sons of the king came out and
+danced alone, for none of the others equalled them. One of them held
+a golden ball in his hand, and bending backward threw it so high that
+it seemed to touch the clouds. The other sprang up and caught it easily
+before it touched the ground.
+
+They both danced, going through intricate and rhythmical figures,
+while the other young men stood around in a circle and clapped their
+hands, keeping time. Then Odysseus said to Alkino�s: "Truly, no one
+excels the Ph�acian princes in dancing. I see the twinkling of their
+feet with amazement."
+
+These words pleased Alkino�s greatly, and he said to his people:
+"Listen, my chiefs, for our guest seems to be a wise man. It becomes
+us now to bestow upon him the gifts of hospitality. In this land there
+are twelve kings. I am the thirteenth. Let each one of us bring a
+fine cloak, and a tunic, and a talent of gold, that our guest may
+see them before he partakes of the evening banquet. And let Euryalos,
+who spoke such scoffing words to him, try to win back his friendship
+and bring a costly gift." All the chiefs approved the words of King
+Alkino�s, and each one sent a servant to his house to bring a valuable
+present.
+
+Euryalos cheerfully obeyed the king. He brought a brass sword with
+a silver hilt to Odysseus, and said: "My father, if I have uttered
+any offensive word to thee, may the winds scatter all remembrance
+of it. May the gods grant thee a speedy return to thy country, where
+thou shalt see thy wife and friends from whom thou hast so long been
+separated."
+
+Odysseus answered: "Hail to thee, also, my friend! May the gods give
+thee all that there is good, and may no need of this sword ever come
+to thee." Odysseus took the sword and threw it across his shoulders.
+
+The sun had set, and the servants carried the gifts to the royal palace,
+where the queen took care of them. King Alkino�s led the way to the
+palace, his guest at his side and the princes following. When they
+had taken their seats on high thrones, the king told his wife to lay
+the royal presents in a chest, adding a much richer cloak and tunic
+than anyone else had given as a gift from himself.
+
+Aret� did as her husband wished, and placed a beautiful cup of gold
+also in the chest, and led Odysseus up to look at the presents. Then
+she taught him how to lock the chest and unlock it, and her maids
+called him to a warm bath, after which he anointed himself with
+fragrant oil and put on fresh garments.
+
+While he was wending his way to the men who sat before their wine,
+he met Nausica� in her goddess-like beauty, standing near a pillar.
+"Stranger, farewell," she said. "I wish thee joy and a safe return
+to thy native land. Do not forget that I was the first to befriend
+thee in the land of the Ph�acians."
+
+Odysseus answered: "May the gods be as sure to favor my return to
+my home as I shall be to make a prayer daily in thy behalf, fair maiden,
+who hath saved my life." Then Odysseus entered the great hall and
+took his place at the feast.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XII
+ODYSSEUS RELATES HIS ADVENTURES
+
+
+When they had all eaten and drunk to their hearts' content, the hero
+begged Demodokos to sing about the invention of the wooden horse with
+which Odysseus had artfully tricked the Trojans to their own
+destruction.
+
+The minstrel felt the inspiration of the song, and began where the
+Greeks threw firebrands into their own tents and sailed away from
+Troy, pretending that they had given up the war.
+
+He told how the Trojans wondered what to do with the huge wooden horse
+which the enemy had left in their city, whether to hew it to pieces
+and burn it, or to drag it to the edge of a high rock and throw it
+over, or whether to spare it as an act of reverence to the gods. This
+last was done, and in the night Odysseus and his men came out of the
+great wooden trap and set fire to the city while the men of Troy slept.
+
+As Demodokos sang, tears rolled down the cheeks of Odysseus. but no
+one noticed his weeping except the king, who said: "It is better to
+stop the song of Demodokos, as it does not delight us all. Ever since
+the bard began to sing, our guest has been weeping. He carries some
+great trouble in his heart. Let the song cease, and let us all make
+merry. Let no grief mar our banquet. And, honored stranger, tell us
+the name of thy father, and the city which is thy home. Our seamen
+shall take thee safely to thine own land, although there is a prophecy
+that one of our good ships shall be changed into a high rock, to stand
+forever in front of our city, if we show such courtesies to strangers.
+
+"Tell us truly who thou art and whither thou hast roamed, what tribes
+of men thou hast seen, and why thou dost weep when the minstrel sings
+of Troy. Didst thou lose a noble kinsman there, or a dear friend?
+For a friend is often dearer than a brother." Odysseus replied: "In
+truth, O king, it is a pleasant thing to listen to a bard like Demodokos,
+for his voice is as sweet as the voice of a god.
+
+"And I cannot think of anything more delightful than the joy of a
+contented people listening to a great poet and singer while seated
+at a feast in a royal hall. But I pine to be at home, and I will declare
+my name and tell the story of my sufferings.
+
+"I am the chieftain Odysseus, son of Laertes, and widely known to
+fame. I dwell in sunny Ithaca, whose high mountains are seen from
+afar, covered with rustling trees. Around it are many smaller islands,
+full of people. Ithaca has low shores on the east. It is a rugged
+island, but it is the sweetest land on earth, and has a noble race
+of mortals. When the Trojan war was at an end, I started for home
+with my twelve ships, but a contrary wind drove us to Ismaros, the
+city of the Kikonians.
+
+"We captured it and put the inhabitants to the sword. Then I exhorted
+my comrades to fly, but, like madmen, they remained on the sea-shore.
+Then they slaughtered a large number of sheep and oxen and made a
+feast. The Kikonians called on their strong neighbors to come and
+help them, and they came in swarms with their brazen spears. They
+fell upon our men and killed six of them from each ship, and drove
+the rest back to their boats.
+
+"Brisk handling of our oars soon carried us out into the sea, but
+Jove sent a hurricane that tore our sails and split our masts, so
+that our sailors drew them into the ships in fear. Two days and nights
+we lay helpless in our boats, worn out with fear and grief, but the
+third day the sun shone on us again, and we raised the masts and sails
+to take the breeze, hoping to reach our own land."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIII
+THE LOTUS-EATERS AND THE CYCLOPS
+
+
+"We sailed onward in a westerly direction, heading for the Grecian
+shore, and thought our trials would soon be at an end. But in this
+we were disappointed, for when we were about to round the cape at
+the southern point of Greece, we met an evil wind which always blows
+there, and it drove us far to the east, beyond the island of Cythera.
+
+"Nine days and nine nights we were driven about on the sea by the
+violent storm, and on the tenth we reached the land of the Lotus-eaters.
+These men eat flowers that look like water-lilies, and they have no
+other food. We landed on the shore of the mainland, and my comrades
+took their evening meal close to the boats.
+
+"When our hunger was satisfied, I sent out two of the best men to
+explore the country about and find out what sort of people the
+Lotus-eaters were. I sent a herald with them, whom they might send
+back with the news.
+
+"They soon found themselves among the Lotus-eaters, who were gentle
+and friendly, and gave them the lotus plant to eat. This food is
+pleasant to the taste, but dangerous; for anyone who eats of it loses
+all desire to return to his own home. He forgets his cares and troubles,
+but also his friends.
+
+"As soon as my comrades had eaten of the lotus, they became attached
+to the Lotus-eaters, and desired to remain with them. They wept
+bitterly when I commanded them to return to the ships, and I was
+obliged to force them to go.
+
+"I bound them down to the benches in the ships, and the whole company
+went on board in haste lest they should never think of their homes
+again. Each man bent to his oars, and the waves were soon white with
+the beating of the ships against them as we sailed with all haste
+in the direction of our own land.
+
+"We sailed about on unknown seas and with sorrowing hearts until we
+came to the land of the Cyclops. They are a wild people who have no
+laws. They never plough the fields nor plant them, for everything
+grows of its own accord--wheat, and barley, and the vine. The grapes
+yield good wine. The Cyclops do not come together in a friendly way,
+but live in caves near the mountain tops, each one in his own den.
+They do not care much for one another, and each rules his wife and
+children as he likes.
+
+"There is a little woody island lying at the entrance to the land
+of the Cyclops, on which swarm numberless wild goats, never disturbed
+by human beings, for the Cyclops have no ships to take them over.
+This island is very fertile, but there are no sheep to eat the grass
+and no people to plough the fields. The goats are the only inhabitants.
+The island has a harbor which is safe, and the ships that enter it
+have no need of anchors or fastenings.
+
+"In the midst of the harbor there is a cliff, from which bubbles forth
+a spring of excellent water, and poplar-trees grow all around it.
+The soil is so rich it might bear all kinds of fruit, if there were
+anyone to plant them. There are beautiful meadows all along the coast,
+which are gay with yellow fruit and pink blossoms.
+
+"We were shaping our course toward this island, and a good breeze
+brought us there on a dark night. The moon did not shine and none
+of the crew saw the land until we were upon the shore. We lowered
+our sails and rested there until morning. When daylight appeared we
+beheld with wonder the island where the wild goats abounded. My
+comrades walked around, admiring the beauty of the place, while the
+nymphs, daughters of Zeus, roused the goats that they might give us
+milk. We took our bows and arrows from the ships immediately and,
+forming three hunting-parties, killed a great number of the nimble
+creatures. Each of my twelve ships received nine goats as its share,
+but mine received ten. The remainder of the day we passed in eating
+and drinking."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIV
+THE CAVE OF THE CYCLOPS
+
+
+"The next day I started with twelve men, the crew of my own ship,
+to find out what kind of men inhabited the country opposite us, leaving
+all the other boats and their men on the island. When we sailed up
+to the coast of the mainland, we heard the voices of giants, and the
+bleating of their sheep and goats. And we saw a cave with a high roof,
+over whose entrance grew laurel shrubs, and many cattle, sheep, and
+goats were lying around at rest. We found an enclosure of rough stone
+in the form of a court, with tall pines and leafy oaks at the mouth
+of the cave.
+
+"The largest giant of all the race of Cyclops dwelt there and took
+care of his cattle all alone. Usually he spent his time prowling all
+by himself around the mountains. He had nothing to do with his
+neighbors, but led a solitary life, plotting wicked deeds. He looked
+more like a huge mountain top, with shaggy overhanging forests,
+towering above other mountains, than a human being.
+
+"We were soon inside the cave, but we did not find the owner at home.
+We had carried with us a wine-skin full of wine which a priest of
+Apollo had given us. The wine was very fragrant and so pleasant that
+no one who had once tasted it, could let it alone. We had taken along
+a basket of food also, for fear of meeting with men of great strength
+and no sense of the courtesy due to strangers.
+
+"As we looked around the cave we wondered at what we saw. There were
+baskets all about heaped with cheeses, and pens of lambs separated
+into three folds, the older in one pen, the younger in another, and
+the youngest in a third. And there were pails full of whey, and buckets
+of milk. My companions ate as much of the cheese as they liked, after
+which they begged to drive all the lambs and kids down to the ship.
+
+"But I would not allow this. It was my wish to stay there and see
+the cave-dweller and find out what kind of a man he was. I thought
+he would give me a handsome present, according to the laws of
+hospitality. It was cold in the cave, so we lit a fire and sat down
+to wait for the owner to arrive.
+
+"He came toward evening, carrying a load of wood on his back, which
+he threw down with such a crash that my men ran with terror into the
+corners of the cave. The giant drove all such sheep and goats as would
+give him milk into the cave, leaving the others in the outside court,
+and then closed up the entrance with a rock so large that twenty-four
+four-wheeled wagons could not have moved it. Having done this, he
+sat down and milked the sheep and goats and gave to each its young
+one.
+
+"Next, he curdled half of the milk and put the curd into woven baskets,
+but he kept the other half for his evening meal. When he had ended
+this work he lit a fire, and seeing the strangers he began to ask
+them questions, to find out who they were. His voice was deep and
+frightful, like the rumbling of a volcano, and our hearts trembled,
+but I found words to answer him: 'We are Greeks, and come from Troy.
+It was our intention to return home, but contrary winds have driven
+us on this shore.
+
+"'We belong to the army of Agamemnon, whose fame is very great because
+he has overcome a strong city and conquered many nations. But now
+we throw ourselves at thy feet and pray that thou wilt receive us
+as guests, or else give us the gifts that are due to strangers, lest
+the gods avenge us.'
+
+"Having said this, I stopped, but the Cyclops told us that we were
+fools to believe in the gods. 'The Cyclops,' he said, 'care nothing
+for the gods. We are better than they are. If I spare thee it will
+be of my own free will, and not for fear of the gods. But where are
+thy ships? Are they near here or far off?' This he said hoping to
+deceive us, but I saw through his trick, and replied: 'The storm has
+thrown our ships upon the cliffs and broken them to pieces, and we
+had to swim for our lives.'
+
+"The cruel monster did not answer me again, but he seized two of my
+companions and dashed them to the ground with such force that they
+died on the spot. He devoured them as a lion devours his prey. He
+left nothing of them, neither bones nor flesh nor hair. We wept aloud
+and prayed to Zeus with our hearts full of despair."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XV
+THE BLINDING OF THE CYCLOPS
+
+
+"When the monster had filled himself with food, he stretched out on
+the floor of the cave to sleep. Then the thought came to me to thrust
+a sword into his heart. But this was not a wise course to take, because
+we should never have been able to remove the stone from the entrance
+to the cave.
+
+"We passed the night in mourning and lamentations. As soon as daylight
+appeared, the Cyclops woke up and lit a fire and milked his sheep
+again. Then he seized two more of my companions and devoured them.
+When his morning meal was done he rolled the stone back from the door
+and drove his beasts out, not forgetting to secure the entrance. We
+could hear his noisy shouts afar off as he led his flocks over the
+grassy heights, and we began to make plans to destroy him.
+
+"We found a great club of green olive-wood in the cave; one that the
+Cyclops had cut for his own use. It was as large as the mast of a
+ship, and he had laid it away to dry. I cut off a fathom's length
+from this club and handed the piece to my companions, who smoothed
+off its sides and sharpened it at one end. This being done, I put
+the sharp end of it into the fire. The stick became very hard, and
+then I hid the weapon under a heap of litter which was piled up in
+the cave. We cast lots to see who should assist me to put out the
+eye of the Cyclops when he was asleep.
+
+"When evening came the Cyclops returned to the cave with his fat sheep
+and kids. He seemed to suspect that there was mischief afoot, for
+he did not leave any of them outside. After milking the ewes and goats
+he again seized two of my companions and made his supper of them.
+But I filled a large drinking-vessel with the wine from our wine-skin
+and stepped boldly out and said to him: 'Here is a cup of wine which
+I brought, hoping that thou wouldst spare my life, O Cyclops, for
+thy wrath is boundless.' He took the cup and drank. The wine delighted
+him greatly, and he handed me the cup after emptying it and said:
+'Give me another draught and tell me thy name. I will give thee a
+generous gift, such as becomes a host. We, too, have wine, but not
+such as yours. That tastes like nectar and ambrosia.'
+
+"Three times I filled the cup and brought it to him, and three times
+the Cyclops drank it like a madman. When the wine had overpowered
+him, I said to him: 'Cyclops, thou dost wish to know my name, and
+I will tell it, but thou must give me the present thou hast promised.
+My name is Nobody. My father and mother gave me this name and my friends
+all call me by it.' 'Then,' said the Cyclops, 'I shall eat Nobody
+last of all. This is my present.'
+
+"After these words he fell asleep and, being very drunk, he began
+to spew out the wine and flesh he had taken. I took the piece of
+olive-wood which my men had sharpened and put the point of it into
+the fire and held it there until it was a glowing coal. My comrades
+stood near me and I encouraged them with brave words. We thrust the
+burning stick into the Cyclops' eye and put it out. He howled with
+pain, and, stung to madness, he seized the stick and flung it across
+the cave.
+
+"He called to the other Cyclops, who lived in divers caves on the
+surrounding mountains, while we hid ourselves in fear in the most
+remote corners of the cave. The giants heard him and came running
+to help him, but they could not get into the cave. They stood near
+the stone, close to the door, and called out: 'What ails thee,
+Polyphemus? Is anyone trying to kill thee?' 'Woe is me!' cried
+Polyphemus, 'Nobody is trying to kill me.' 'Then why dost thou shout
+and cry for help?' said they. 'If nobody hurts thee, then thou art
+not hurt.'
+
+"With these words they went off, and we rejoiced greatly that my trick
+had deceived them."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVI
+ODYSSEUS AND HIS COMPANIONS LEAVE THE LAND OF THE CYCLOPS
+
+
+"Polyphemus, groaning with pain, tried to feel his way with his hands
+to the mouth of the cavern. Having succeeded in this, he rolled back
+the stone and sat down at the entrance and stretched out his hands
+in order to catch us if we should happen to try to get out among the
+sheep.
+
+"But we were not so foolish as to be caught in this way. There were
+in the cave a number of stout and woolly rams. Of these I put three
+abreast and tied them together with twigs that happened to be in the
+cave. Under each middle ram I tied one of my companions. The two sheep,
+one on each side of him, hid the man completely. For myself I selected
+the stoutest ram of the flock, and, seizing his long shaggy wool with
+my hands, held fast to him with my knees and arms.
+
+"The sun rose and the animals began to hasten out to the pastures.
+The Cyclops, though nearly exhausted with pain, passed his hands over
+the backs of the sheep to find out whether any of us were trying to
+ride out of the cave. He did not find out our trick, and my companions
+all escaped safely. Last of all, the ram that carried me came to the
+door, because I was so heavy that he could hardly walk with me hanging
+to him.
+
+"Polyphemus felt of his back and recognized him at once as his favorite
+ram, and said: 'Dearest of all my sheep, why dost thou go last?
+Commonly thou wert the first of the flock to hasten to the rich pasture
+and the cool spring, just as thou wert the first in the evening to
+return to thy manger. But to-day thou art last of all. Dost thou grieve
+because thy master hath lost his eye, which Nobody has put out? But
+wait a little. He shall not escape death. Couldst thou only speak,
+my ram, thou wouldst tell me at once where the scoundrel is; then
+thou shouldst see how I would dash him against the rocks.'
+
+"Speaking such words as these, he let the ram go. When we were safely
+out of the cave, we gladly took to our feet and drove the fat sheep
+down to our boat with all haste. Our friends received us with tears
+of joy, for they thought we had surely perished. I made signs to them
+not to weep aloud, and to hurry the sheep on board the ship. They
+did this with all haste, and each man took his place at the oars.
+
+"When we were beyond the reach of the Cyclops, I called out to tease
+him, 'Ha! Cyclops, Cyclops, thou hast not been entertaining a coward.
+Zeus and the other gods have avenged the brave men whom thou didst
+so cruelly destroy.'
+
+"The Cyclops heard my words and grew furious. He seized a large rock
+and threw it with all his might toward the place where he had heard
+my voice.
+
+"The rock fell in front of my ship, and the waves which it raised
+carried us back on shore. I seized a large pole and shoved the boat
+back into the water, commanding my men to ply their oars vigorously,
+that we might escape destruction. My companions begged me not to
+excite the dangerous monster further; but when we were a long way
+out I shouted to him: 'Cyclops, if ever anybody asks thee who put
+out thine eye, tell him it was Odysseus, the son of Laertes, conqueror
+of Troy.'
+
+"When Polyphemus heard these words he gave a deep groan, and said
+to me: 'Truly did the wise seer, Telemos, foretell that I was to be
+blinded by Odysseus. But I thought there would come a large and
+powerful man, not such an insignificant little fellow who would cheat
+me with wine. Come back, Odysseus, and let me bestow upon you the
+gifts which are due to strangers. I will pray to my father, Poseidon,
+to give thee a safe and speedy return to thy native land. He can restore
+my eye whenever he will, so I cherish no anger against thee.'
+
+"I knew his deceit, however, and replied: 'I would rather take thy
+life, and send thee down to the dark halls of the dead, where thy
+father could never restore thy sight.'
+
+"As soon as Polyphemus heard this, he raised his hands to heaven and
+prayed to Poseidon, 'My father,' he said, 'hear me, if in truth I
+am thy son. Grant me this prayer. May Odysseus never return to his
+own country, or, if it be thy will that he reach home and friends
+again, let his return be late and sorrowful. May his comrades all
+be lost, and may he go back in a borrowed ship, and find new troubles
+waiting for him in his house.'
+
+"Poseidon was moved to wrath against me by this prayer, and determined
+to take vengeance on me. The Cyclops seized another stone, much larger
+than the last, and swinging it round, threw it at us with tremendous
+strength. It fell close to the ship, but this time it drove the boat
+out into the sea and in the direction of the island where we first
+landed.
+
+"When we reached the island we found the friends we had left there
+waiting anxiously for our return. My men drew their boat up on to
+the smooth sand and stepped upon the beach, taking the sheep along
+with them. Each man took an equal share, but they gave me the ram
+which had saved my life. We took him out upon the beach and offered
+him up as a sacrifice to Zeus.
+
+"But sacrifices were vain, for Zeus had more evil for us in his mind.
+We spent the rest of the day on the island, eating and drinking, and
+when the sun went down we camped on the shore for the night. In the
+morning I called my men to climb the decks and cut the ropes that
+kept us fastened to the shore. With all speed they went aboard and
+took their oars in hand and set sail for home, glad to escape, but
+sorrowing for our lost companions."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVII
+THE ADVENTURES OF ODYSSEUS ON THE ISLAND OF �OLUS
+
+
+"We sailed about on unknown seas for many days, when we reached the
+island where �olus made his abode. This island was surrounded by
+smooth rocks and guarded by a wall of shining brass.
+
+"�olus had twelve children, six sons and six daughters, and they
+banqueted on an endless variety of meats from day to day all the year
+round. �olus was a kindly, genial god; he was master of the winds,
+and one could hear the music of sweet pipes in his halls all day,
+and the air was fresh and fragrant there.
+
+"�olus welcomed us hospitably and kept us with him a whole month.
+He inquired of the fate of all our companions in the war with Troy,
+and we stated what had happened to them. Then we prayed him to send
+us home, and the god very kindly gave us a sack made of skin in which
+he had tied up all the contrary winds, leaving only the west wind
+free to carry us safely home.
+
+"I took the great bag of winds and bound it fast to the main mast
+of the ship with a silver chain, so that no rude wind could escape
+and blow us out of our way. We sailed along nine days and nine nights,
+blown by the friendly breeze from the west, and on the tenth we saw
+in the distance the mountain tops of Ithaca and the fires along the
+shore.
+
+"And now I was overcome by a heavy sleep, for I had been guiding the
+ship, not daring to trust it to the hand of any of the crew. While
+I lay unconscious of what was going on, my companions talked among
+themselves and said they believed that the bag which �olus had given
+me contained vast amounts of gold and silver. And they spoke with
+great jealousy of the prizes which I had received wherever we had
+landed, while they went empty-handed.
+
+"The more they talked to one another the more jealous and angry they
+grew. They untied the sack and the winds rushed out, much to their
+astonishment, and seized the ship, driving it round and round in a
+furious storm. I started out of my sleep suddenly and found the bag
+open I had so carefully guarded and my companions weeping bitterly.
+
+"For a moment I had a mind to throw myself into the sea and make an
+end of my troubles forever. But the thought came to me that such an
+action would not be noble, so I hid my head in my mantle and lay down
+in the bottom of the ship while the violent winds and towering waves
+drove us back to the island we had left. We landed there again, and,
+having partaken of some food and wine, I sought the halls of �olus.
+
+"I found the king and his wife and children at table taking their
+evening meal. When �olus saw me he was amazed, and asked me what had
+happened to me. I told him about the senseless action of my companions,
+and begged him to assist me once more. But with a terrible voice he
+replied: 'Begone as fast as thou canst out of my island. I will not
+befriend a man who is hated of the gods.' In this unkind way he sent
+me off, and we sadly entered our ships and made for the open sea,
+trusting to the mercy of the winds."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVIII
+ODYSSEUS AT THE HOME OF CIRC�
+
+
+"For six days and six nights we sailed without interruption, but on
+the seventh day we reached the city of the L�strygonians. There the
+pastures are so rich in grass that the fields, which are grazed by
+one flock of sheep during the day, yield abundant food for another
+flock by night. The inhabitants were not only inhospitable, but they
+received us with a shower of stones, which they hurled at us and at
+our galleys. They broke our ships and killed my companions, spearing
+them like fish. Then they carried them ashore to be devoured. With
+the greatest difficulty I succeeded in saving one ship and a few
+companions from the hands of these giants, and I fled with them out
+to the high sea.
+
+"Sadly we continued our course until we reached an island, where the
+goddess Circ�, a daughter of the Sun and Ocean, lived. We landed
+silently, and gave two days and nights to rest, for we were worn out
+with toil and grief. On the third day I climbed to the top of a high
+hill and looked over the island. Down below I saw a marble palace,
+surrounded by a thick forest. There was smoke rising from the grounds,
+so I resolved to return to my men and send out some of them to look
+about and explore.
+
+"A large stag ran down into my path, on his way to a river to drink,
+and I thrust my spear through him and flung him across my neck and
+took him to the ship. I threw him at the feet of my men, who were
+astonished at his size. They prepared a banquet at once, and we feasted
+upon the meat.
+
+"That night we slept on the shore again, and in the morning I told
+them that I had seen a palace standing in a thick wood, and that I
+wanted to send several men there to try to get food. When my companions
+thought of all their comrades who had been slain they wept aloud.
+But their tears were useless. I divided them into two equal bands,
+and we cast lots to see which party should make the adventure.
+
+"The lot fell to Eurylochos and his band of men. They started forth,
+and soon came to a beautiful valley, in which was the splendid house
+of Circ�, which was built of well-hewn stone. There were beasts of
+prey, lions and wolves, around it. The animals were tame; they wagged
+their tails and fawned like dogs, but the men were afraid of them.
+Circ� was weaving in the palace and singing a beautiful song. She
+had bright, sunny hair and a sweet voice. The men heard her as she
+went back and forth weaving, and they called aloud. She came to the
+door and threw it wide open and bade them enter.
+
+"Eurylochos alone did not go in, for he feared that some evil would
+come of it. The others followed her, and Circ� seated them on thrones
+and gave them food and wine, but in the wine she had secretly infused
+a magic juice which made them forget home and friends and all desire
+to see their native land.
+
+"When they had eaten and drunk to their hearts' content, she waved
+her wand over them, and at once the poor wretches were changed into
+grunting pigs, which she shut up in pigsties and threw acorns and
+other food fit for swine before them. Although thus transformed and
+covered with bristles, they still retained the human mind.
+
+"Eurylochos stayed a long time outside awaiting the return of his
+companions. But as they tarried so long, he hastened back to the ship
+to tell the news. Thereupon I quickly hung my sword over my shoulder
+and, taking my bow and arrows, hurried off alone, and soon found myself
+not far from Circ�'s palace."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIX
+CIRC� INSTRUCTS ODYSSEUS CONCERNING HIS DESCENT TO HADES
+
+
+"As I lingered in that dangerous valley there appeared to me a youth
+whom I knew at once to be Hermes, the messenger of the gods. He gently
+took hold of my hand and, looking compassionately on me, said: 'Thou
+most unhappy man! Why art thou roaming alone in these wild parts?
+Or art thou bound on the errand of delivering thy friends who have
+all been changed by Circ� into swine? Much do I fear that thou mayest
+meet with the same fate. Listen to my words and heed them well if
+thou wouldst destroy the treacherous schemes of Circ�.
+
+"'Take this little flower. Its name is Moly among the gods, and no
+wicked sorcery can hurt the man who treasures it carefully. Its root
+is black. Its blossom is as white as milk, and it is hard for men
+to tear it from the ground. Take this herb and go fearlessly into
+the dwelling of the sorceress; it will guard thee against all mishap.
+She will bring thee a bowl of wine mingled with the juice of
+enchantment, but do not fear to eat or drink anything she may offer
+thee, and when she touches thy head with her magic wand, then rush
+upon her quickly with drawn sword as though about to slay her. She
+will crouch in fear and entreat thee with soft words to spare her.
+But do not give way to her until she has pledged herself by the great
+oath of the gods to do thee no harm.'
+
+"When Hermes had spoken thus he left me, to return to high Olympos,
+and I walked to the house of Circ� with a braver heart. As I came
+near the palace I called out to the goddess with a loud voice, and
+she threw open the doors for me to enter. She bade me sit down on
+a beautiful throne and placed a golden foot-stool under my feet. Then
+she gave me the dangerous cup and I drank it off, but her charm did
+not work.
+
+"Scarcely had I drained the cup when the goddess struck me with her
+wand and said: 'Off with you! Go to the pigsty, where friends await
+thy coming!' In a twinkling I had my sword in hand and rushed upon
+her as if to kill her. Circ� shrieked with fear and fell on her knees
+to implore my mercy. 'Who art thou and whence dost thou come?' said
+Circ�. 'Thou art the first man over whom my magic wine has had no
+power. Art thou really that Odysseus of whom Hermes told me that he
+was to come here after many wanderings? But put up thy sword and cease
+to be angry with me and let us trust each other.'
+
+"I answered her: 'O, goddess, how can I have faith in thy words, since
+thou hast changed my companions into swine and dost plot the same
+fate for me? Swear me the great oath that thou wilt not harm me, and
+I shall trust thy words.'
+
+"Circ� at once took the great oath, that she would never again try
+to do me any harm, and she ordered her servants to spread a feast
+before me. But I had no desire to eat. I sat down in silence, my mind
+full of grief and doubt.
+
+"When Circ� saw that I did not touch the food she said: 'Why art thou
+so quiet and speechless? And why dost thou not taste the food and
+wine? I have pledged myself by the great oath to do thee no harm!'
+But I answered: 'What man with a loyal heart, O goddess, could eat
+and drink with any pleasure while his comrades are kept in bondage
+and degradation? If thou art really kind and wouldst have me enjoy
+this bounteous feast, O let me see my dear companions free once more!'
+
+"The goddess took her wand and went to the pen and drove out the swine.
+She then anointed them with a magic ointment, and their bristles fell
+off and they stood up and were men again. They knew me, and each one
+seized my hand, shedding tears of joy. Then I sent for the rest of
+my men at the ship, who eagerly came up, and together we entered the
+halls of Circ�, all of us weeping with joy.
+
+"Circ�'s heart was softened also, and she said to me: 'Son of Laertes,
+noble Odysseus, do not weep and grieve any longer. I know what
+hardships thou hast endured on land and sea. Take courage, for thy
+sufferings will soon be at an end. Go down to the sea and hide thy
+boat near the shore and come back to my halls, thou and all thy men,
+where I will make it a happy home for all until thou art rested and
+ready to sail again for thy native land.'
+
+"We stayed a whole year on the island of Circ�, feasting and enjoying
+ourselves, and fully recovered our strength. The desire of reaching
+my beloved Ithaca grew stronger within me day by day, and at last
+I begged Circ� to allow us to depart. 'I am not willing, O son of
+Laertes,' Circ� answered, 'that thou shouldst remain here against
+thy wish, but it is necessary that thou shouldst, before departing
+from my island, descend into Hades, to the palace of Pluto and
+Persephone, to consult the spirit of the Theban seer, Tiresias, on
+whom Persephone has bestowed the priceless gift of preserving his
+memory even in Hades, whereas all the other souls are moving about
+as empty shadows.'
+
+"Hearing this, I grew desperate and no longer had any desire to live
+or see the light of day. I said to the goddess: 'Who will show me
+the way to Hades? for no living mortal has ever gone there before.'
+She replied: 'Do not worry about a guide, Odysseus, for there will
+be no need of one. Launch thy boat, unfurl the sails, and quietly
+sit down. The north wind will waft thee to the shore of Hades. There
+flows the river Styx, black and terrible. It flows between the poplars
+and willows in the groves of Persephone, and meets the broad waters
+of Okeanos. Sail up its dark stream until thou dost reach the rock
+where its two branches meet and swirl and roar. There leave thy boat
+and dig a ditch in the ground, a foot deep and a foot wide, in which
+thou shalt pour honey, milk, wine, and water as an offering to the
+dead.
+
+"'At the same time pray to the gods of Hades, and promise the shades
+of the dead that after thou hast arrived in Ithaca thou wilt sacrifice
+to them a whole heifer, the best of thy flock, and to Tiresias
+especially a black ram. Then take two sheep, a male and a female,
+kill them, and burn them as a sacrifice to the nations of the dead.
+
+"'At once there will arrive the souls of the departed. They will come
+by thousands, anxious to drink of the blood, that they may have their
+minds again. But draw thy sword and hold them back until the spirit
+of Tiresias arrives. He will tell thee how to get back to thy native
+land.'
+
+"As Circ� said this the daylight appeared, and I woke my companions
+and told them to make ready to go with me. We started at once for
+our ship, and got everything in readiness to leave. I told them that
+before setting out for our own country we had, by the advice of Circ�,
+to go down to Hades in order to consult the seer Tiresias about our
+journey. When they heard this they sat down, and wept, and began to
+tear the hair from their heads.
+
+"Circ� meantime came up by stealth, and put two sheep into the ship,
+and we sailed sadly away."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XX
+THE ADVENTURES OF ODYSSEUS IN HADES
+
+
+"With a heavy heart we sailed from Circ�'s island bound for the gloomy
+Hades. As the wind was favorable, we soon reached the place of which
+the goddess had told us. There we left the ship and did those things
+which Circ� had counselled us to do. As soon as the dark blood of
+the sheep began to flow into the trench countless souls came flocking
+from Hades and begged to taste of the blood, that their mortal minds
+might be restored to them.
+
+"Young wives and girls, old men and young warriors who had fallen
+in battle, airy forms, ghosts of all kinds of people, flitted like
+bats around me in that dark place with fearful cries, and I turned
+pale with fear. I drew my sword and waved them back until I should
+question the soul of Tiresias.
+
+"But first came the soul of Elpenor, one of my companions who had
+gone with me to the palace of Circ�. We had left him dead in the halls
+of the goddess, since we had no time to bury him. Now, when I saw
+him a great pity stirred my heart, and I shed tears and said to him:
+'Elpenor, how didst thou come into these dread regions of darkness?
+Thou hast come more quickly on foot than I in my quick ship.'
+
+"The phantom knew me, for, being as yet unburied, he was not one of
+the shades, and had not lost his memory or voice, nor did he need
+to drink of the blood. He moaned and replied: 'Noble Odysseus, it
+was an evil fate which the gods had decreed for me. I drank too much
+wine and that caused my death. I lay down to sleep on the roof of
+Circ�'s palace and could not remember the way to the stairs when thou
+didst call us to the ships. In my haste I fell from the roof and broke
+my neck, and my soul came down to Hades.
+
+"'I pray thee now by all those whom thou dost love--thy wife, thy
+father, and thy son--that thou leave not my body unburied in the palace
+halls, lest I bring on thee the anger of the gods. But on thy return
+to Circ�'s isle burn my body, together with my armor, and pile up
+a mound of earth over my ashes. Plant my oar upon my tomb--the oar
+with which I used to row while I was living.'
+
+"I made the promise, but at this moment the soul of my mother, whom
+I had left hale and strong among the living when I went to the war,
+approached and tried to get at the trench. I wept to see her, but
+with a heavy heart I forbade her coming nearer until I had spoken
+with Tiresias. At this moment troops of souls came flocking out of
+Hades, and from the countless throng the Theban seer came leaning
+on a golden staff, and he ordered me to lay aside my sword and permit
+him to drink of the blood.
+
+"When he had drunk, he spoke to me and said: 'Odysseus, man of many
+woes, why dost thou leave the light of the sun and come down among
+the dead? Doubtless thy heart's desire is to return safely home. But
+much suffering is in store for thee. Poseidon will not permit it,
+because thou hast blinded his son, Polyphemus. Still, thou mayest
+overcome all difficulties and see Ithaca at last, if thou dost not
+harm the cattle and fat sheep of the Sun on the island of Trinacria.
+
+"'But if thou dost kill them and eat of their flesh, I warn thee that
+nothing will save thy comrades or thy ships. Even then thou mayest
+be saved, but it will be on a strange ship, alone, and after dreadful
+sufferings. And at home thou wilt find other misfortunes awaiting
+thee.
+
+"'There will be a mob of lawless men rioting in thy house, squandering
+thy riches, and trying to get thy wife to marry one of them. Thou
+shalt kill these violent men in thy halls by craft or in open fight.
+After that thou shalt reach a good and prosperous old age, and find
+a peaceful death far away from the sea. All that I tell thee shall
+surely happen.'"
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXI
+ODYSSEUS CONVERSES WITH HIS MOTHER AND AGAMEMNON
+
+
+"When Tiresias had gone, my mother came back to the dark trench and
+drank of the blood. She knew me at once and cried out: 'Oh, my child,
+how didst thou ever come down to this gloomy place alive? Art thou
+on thy way home from Troy? And hast thou not seen Ithaca yet, nor
+thy wife and child?'
+
+"I answered her: 'Dear mother, I was compelled to come down here in
+order to consult the soul of the prophet Tiresias about my return;
+for I have not yet touched foot to Grecian soil. I have been driven
+about on strange seas from year to year, and have suffered misfortune
+after misfortune. Oh, tell me, my mother, how didst thou die? Did
+some lingering disease waste thy life, or didst thou meet a sudden,
+painless death?
+
+"'Tell me of my father and of my son. Do they still hold rule over
+Ithaca? Or has someone snatched it away from them, thinking I was
+never to return? How fares my wife, Penelope? Is she still faithful
+to the husband of her youth, or has she married another?'
+
+"To all this my mother answered: 'My son, Penelope is in the home
+where thou didst leave her, and she weeps for thee day and night.
+Nobody has usurped thy kingdom, and Telemachos has charge of thy royal
+estates. But thy father dwells on thy farm, and shares the life of
+the servants. He seldom goes down to the city. The grief he feels
+for loss of thee has made him old, and will hasten his death, as it
+caused mine, for I could not live without thee.'
+
+"So spake my mother, and I longed to clasp her to my heart. Three
+times I threw my arms around her, and three times she passed through
+them like a shadow. Then I cried out in sorrow: 'Oh, my dear mother!
+why can I not clasp thee to my heart and hold thee in my arms, that
+we may lose for a while our sense of loneliness and misery?'
+
+"My mother spoke and said: 'It is the lot of all our race when they
+are dead. When life departs we have no bones and flesh, but the soul
+flies off and flits about from one place to another. Hasten back to
+the pleasant daylight, and when thou dost reach home tell thy wife
+what I have said.'
+
+"When my mother had gone, I saw the soul of Agamemnon approaching,
+together with the shades of those of his companions who had perished
+with him. The moment he had drunk of the blood he knew me and raised
+a loud wail. He stretched out his hands to me, and I tried to seize
+them, but I clutched only the empty air.
+
+"Then I began to weep, too, and said to him: 'Famous son of Atreus,
+King Agamemnon, tell me how thou didst die. Did Poseidon wreck thee
+on the sea in a terrible storm, or didst thou fall in war, fighting
+on the land?'
+
+"Whereupon the king told me the dire story of his home-coming and
+his death at traitors' hands. 'When I trod my native soil again after
+a long absence,' he said, 'I was overcome with joy at the thought
+of seeing my wife and children once more. But I was slain in my own
+home, and my wife did not even close my eyes as my soul came on its
+way to these dark realms.'
+
+"I answered: 'Alas! how the gods must hate the family of Atreus on
+account of the unfaithfulness of its women!'
+
+"Agamemnon replied: 'Oh, son of Laertes, thou art a fortunate man,
+for thou hast a faithful wife. Penelope is wise and virtuous. I
+remember, when we were ready to start for Troy she was a young wife
+with a little babe in her arms, which she pressed to her bosom. He
+must be a man now. Thou art a happy father. Thou wilt see thy son
+at home in Ithaca.
+
+"'No such good fortune can ever come to me. My wife did not even let
+me see my son before she slew me. Tell me about him, I beseech thee,
+how he is. Does he still live in Sparta?'
+
+"'Son of Atreus,' I said, 'do not ask me where thy son is. I cannot
+tell whether he is alive or not, and this is no time for idle
+conjectures;' and we wept as I spoke."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXII
+CONVERSATION WITH ACHILLES AND OTHER HEROES
+
+
+"While we were conversing thus, the shades of Achilles and Patroklos
+came near. The soul of Achilles recognized me, and he said: 'Odysseus,
+son of Laertes, how darest thou descend into the gloomy habitation
+of the dead? This is the greatest labor thou hast undertaken.'
+
+"I answered: 'Godlike Achilles, I came here to consult the seer
+Tiresias about my return to my own country, for I have never yet
+reached Grecian soil, but have wandered about suffering great
+misfortunes. No one is happier than thou art, O Achilles. When thou
+wert alive all men honored thee as if thou wert a god, and now thou
+art a king and rulest over the dead.'
+
+"Then he replied: 'Do not try to console me, Odysseus. I would rather
+be the slave of a poor man, and in the light of the sun, than to be
+in Hades and rule over all the dead. But tell me, Odysseus, how fares
+my noble son? Does he fight in the wars, and is he in the front ranks?
+And Peleus, my aged father, tell me of him. Is he still king of the
+Myrmidons? Or do they hold him in contempt, now that he is old, and
+I am not there to uphold him?'
+
+"I answered him: 'I know nothing about thy aged father, O Achilles,
+but I have many things to tell thee about thy son. I brought him from
+Skyros, myself, in a ship to Troy, and placed him in the Greek army.
+There he surpassed everyone except Nestor and myself in the wisdom
+of his advice, and when we went forth to battle he fought among the
+foremost, slaying many illustrious foes.
+
+"'Above all, his powers shone forth when we were hidden in the wooden
+horse. All the other leaders of the Greeks gave signs of fear. They
+grew white and shed tears; but his face never turned pale, and no
+tear came into his eyes. He called on me to leave the horse and rush
+upon the foe, and he smote the Trojans, carrying death and destruction
+among them. When we finally subdued the city, thy son took rich booty
+and safely reached his own country.'
+
+"As soon as Achilles heard this news he rejoiced. He strode proudly
+off over the field of Elysian asphodels, well pleased that he had
+left such a mighty son on earth.
+
+"After Achilles had departed, many other souls came and talked with
+me. Only the soul of Ajax kept aloof, still angry over a victory which
+I gained near the ships when I took the weapons of Achilles as my
+share of the booty. Little did that victory and the arms please me,
+since they caused the grave to close over such a hero as Ajax.
+
+"I spoke to his soul in gentle words: 'Ajax, son of Telamon, did not
+even death appease the anger against me which thou didst feel on
+account of my receiving the arms that brought such a calamity upon
+the Greeks? For thou wast our tower of strength, and the weapons proved
+fatal to thee. Come nearer and speak to me, for I bewail thy death.'
+I spoke soothingly yet Ajax gave no answer. His spirit vanished away
+among the other spirits.
+
+"Then I beheld Minos, the lawgiver of Crete, who held a golden sceptre
+in his hand and judged the dead. He had under him the great wrong-doers
+of one part of Hades. With him I saw Tantalos, who stood in a pool
+of water, suffering at the same time a painful thirst. As often as
+he tried to put his lips to the water it sank down away from him so
+that he could not reach it.
+
+"I saw Sisyphos, also, who suffered great punishment, for he rolled
+a large rock uphill with both hands, straining every muscle of his
+body to the utmost to move it. No sooner had he pushed it to the top
+of the hill than it rolled back with deafening noise to the bottom
+of the valley. Again the unfortunate man toiled to move it upward,
+the sweat covering his body and clouds of dust hovering over his head.
+
+"Then I saw the shade of Herakles, but the hero himself sits among
+the gods on Mount Olympos. And there came myriads of souls, making
+a terrible noise, which filled me with dread, lest I might look upon
+the Gorgon, and I hastened back to the ship. I ordered the crew to
+go on board, and they took their oars and rowed until we reached the
+open sea, where favorable winds caught by the sails wafted us back
+to Circ�'s isle."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIII
+THE RETURN OF ODYSSEUS TO THE ISLAND OF CIRC�
+
+
+"When we reached Circ�'s isle, we dragged our vessel up on to the
+beach, and lay down to sleep on the shore. At break of day I sent
+my comrades forth to bring the body of Elpenor from the palace. We
+took it out to a rocky place on the shore, and cut down trees to build
+a funeral pyre. There we burned the body and performed the funeral
+rites, and we built a tomb and placed an oar at the top of it.
+
+"All this was done quietly, but Circ� saw us and came with her maids,
+bringing a generous supply of food and wine. Standing in our midst,
+she said: 'Brave men, who living have gone down to Hades, all men
+die once, but you are permitted to die twice. Take food, eat and drink
+all day long, and to-morrow at daylight depart for your native land.
+I will show you the way and teach you how to avoid all danger.'
+
+"We spent the whole day on the shore, eating and drinking, but when
+the sun sank down and the earth was covered with darkness my companions
+went near the ship to seek rest. But I sat down by Circ�, who questioned
+me about my visit to Hades. After I had told her everything, she said:
+'Odysseus, so far all is well, but there are a great many new dangers
+ahead. Listen carefully to what I say. First, thou must pass the Sirens,
+who bewitch with their melodious voices all who listen to them. Woe
+to him who allows his ship to go near them! He will never reach his
+native land, or see his wife and children again. The Sirens sit in
+a green field and sing, while the bones of dead men lie in heaps near
+them. Do not listen to them, but pass them by unnoticed.
+
+"'Or, if thou wouldst enjoy the matchless singing and not pay the
+forfeit with thy life, let thy men bind thee hand and foot to the
+mast of thy ship, so that thou canst not by any effort stir a limb
+when the great longing seizes thee. And give thy men strict orders
+to make thy bonds tighter shouldst thou entreat them to loose thee.
+Before thou art bound, thou shalt knead soft wax in thy palms and
+fill the ears of thy companions with it, that no sound may enter.
+
+"'Thence thou wilt come to the narrows where Skylla and Charybdis
+dwell. On each side of the narrows is a steep cliff, one of which
+is so high that its sharp top reaches the sky. It is so slippery that
+no one is able to climb up or down its sides, nor could he if he had
+twenty hands and feet. Not even a bird can safely perch on it.
+
+"'No boat has ever come to the spot and left it without being wrecked,
+except Jason's, when he was in search of the Golden Fleece, and he
+escaped because a goddess was his guide, to pilot him through. A dark
+gray fog forever broods over the head of the cliff, and on its western
+side there yawns a fearful cave, where Skylla lives.
+
+"'She is a terrible monster that barks like a savage dog, day and
+night. She has twelve shapeless feet, and six heads set on long necks.
+Each of her mouths shows three rows of deadly teeth. Half of her body
+is hidden in the rock, but she thrusts out her heads and snatches
+her prey, fish, whales, dolphins, or men. No sailor escapes, or,
+indeed, any living creature that passes that way.
+
+"'The other cliff is not so high, but is still more dangerous. There,
+under the foliage of a wild fig-tree, Charybdis dwells, who sucks
+in the dark waters of the sea three times a day and belches them forth
+again three times with a terrible noise. Woe to thee if thou art near
+when she sucks the waters down, for not even Poseidon himself could
+save thee. It would be better far to steer close to Skylla, for then
+only six of thy men would be snatched from the benches, but if
+Charybdis seizes thy ship all must perish.
+
+"'These pests are immortal. Do not try to overcome them. They cannot
+die. It is better to fly from them with all haste. It would be rashness
+and not courage to attack them.
+
+"'Next in thy voyage thou wilt come to the island of Trinacria, where
+the fine flocks of Helios are feeding. Two shining nymphs, daughters
+of the Sun, tend them. There are seven herds of oxen and seven herds
+of sheep, fifty in each herd and flock. These creatures are immortal,
+and greatly beloved of Helios, who will send destruction to thy ship
+and crew if any harm come to them. Forbid thy men to touch the cattle,
+even though suffering for food. If thou art wise enough to escape
+these dangers, thou shalt reach thy home without further mischance.'
+
+"As the goddess finished, day broke. Circ� sought her own dwelling,
+while we put to sea with a favorable wind, and soon the island faded
+from our sight."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIV
+ODYSSEUS MEETS THE SIRENS, SKYLLA, AND CHARYBDIS
+
+
+"When I saw that we were near the home of the Sirens, I said to my
+men: 'It is not wise that only one of us should know the oracles of
+Circ�, and I will tell you all she said to me, that ye may escape
+from the perils before us; and I disclosed her sayings to them. Then
+I took a handful of wax and warmed it in the sun until it was soft,
+and carefully clogged up their ears.
+
+"They, in turn, tied me to the mast, hand and foot, so firmly that
+I could not stir a limb, having first received my command that they
+should not loose my bonds on any account. Then they bent to their
+oars, and rowed close to the Sirens, so that they could see me and
+I could hear their bewitching songs.
+
+"'Come to us, O renowned Odysseus,' they sang; 'pride of the Greeks,
+come and listen to our voices. No one ever yet passed us without
+stopping and admiring our sweet songs. Come, that we may sing to thee
+about Troy and thy friends, for we know everything that is going on
+in the whole world.'
+
+"Thus they sang, and their songs thrilled me. A great desire came
+over me to stop and listen to them, and with nods I entreated my
+comrades to set me free. But they sprang up and bound other cords
+about me, so that I struggled in vain. Then all the men plied their
+oars until the water was white with foam, and when we were out of
+sight of the island and could no longer hear the songs of the Sirens,
+my men set me free, and I took the wax from their ears.
+
+"Hardly had we escaped from the Sirens when we beheld a black fog
+and towering waves and heard a frightful noise. My men were so scared
+that the oars fell from their hands and the ship stood still. I
+hastened from one end of the boat to the other, speaking cheerful
+words to each rower. 'My dear friends,' I said, 'have no fear. This
+is not the first time we have encountered danger. We have been saved
+from the hands of the Cyclops through our own valor and clever devices,
+and we are not going to break down now. Listen, and I will tell you
+what is to be done. Keep your seats and ply your oars with all your
+might; but thou, O helmsman, steer thy ship clear of that fog and
+the whirling waves.' Thus I spoke, and they willingly obeyed my words.
+
+"Yet I said nothing to them about Skylla, lest they should lose heart
+and hide in the bottom of the ship. Thus we passed in between the
+two cliffs, the one of which harbored Skylla and the other Charybdis,
+who, with a terrible noise, swallowed the brine of the sea and belched
+it out again with a roar like the mingling of fire and water.
+
+"But I forgot the command of Circ� to fly from these monsters without
+fighting. I put on my shining armor and took a spear in each hand,
+and went on deck, and stood in warlike attitude ready to attack Skylla
+if she should raise a hand to seize one of my men. I looked for a
+long time, but I could not see her.
+
+"We sailed on, the uproar increasing. My men grew white with fear.
+The salt waters whirled so that we could look into a deep watery pit
+and see the blue sand. The rocks were hidden by a thick mist. Suddenly
+Skylla thrust forth a mighty hand and snatched six of my brave men,
+as a fisherman pulls out fish with a hook. I saw their hands
+outstretched toward me as they were lifted up into the air, and I
+heard their cries for help. Woe is me! This sight will haunt me as
+long as I have life."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXV
+ODYSSEUS ON THE ISLAND OF HELIOS
+
+
+"When we had escaped from the terrible Skylla and Charybdis, we came
+to the island of Helios, the island of the Sun, and heard from afar
+the lowing of the cattle and the bleating of the sheep. Then I
+remembered the words of Tiresias and Circ�, and I advised my
+companions not to land there at all, but to go right on, lest we suffer
+some new disaster.
+
+"My crew would not listen to me. They commanded me to land on the
+isle. I then made them take an oath not even to look at any of the
+cattle. We prepared our evening meal, and when it was over we talked
+of our dear companions whom Skylla had devoured, and we mourned over
+them until we fell asleep.
+
+"We remained a whole month on this island, on account of unfavorable
+winds. We found the roomy grot where the nymphs danced, and the seats
+where they sat--the nymphs who tended the flocks of Helios.
+
+"As long as we had a plenty of bread and wine my comrades were satisfied
+and spared the cattle. But when our store of food was exhausted they
+roamed all over the island to see what they could get to appease their
+hunger. They snared birds and caught fish with hooks, and lived on
+them or anything else that came to hand. But they grew poor and lean
+with hunger and nearly starved. I went off alone into the island,
+where I had found a quiet nook, and sent up prayers to the gods to
+show us the way out of our difficulties. There I fell asleep.
+
+"While I slumbered, Eurylochos called my men together, and said: 'All
+kinds of death are bad enough, my brave friends, but death by
+starvation is the worst. Let us kill the best of these cattle and
+offer sacrifices to the gods, and then eat and live. If we ever get
+to Ithaca we will make restitution, for we will build altars to the
+Sun and place costly gifts upon his shrine. But if it is his will
+to destroy us in his anger, then let us die amid the billows of the
+deep, for that is better than to die by famine.'
+
+"Thus spoke Eurylochos, and the others lent a willing ear. They seized
+the best of the cattle at once, and slaughtered them, and prepared
+a hearty meal. They offered up petitions to the gods, standing round
+their victims with young oak-leaves in their hands. Then they covered
+the thighs with caul, and laid slices of fat over these, and poured
+on water and roasted it until it was consumed. All the rest was cut
+into smaller portions and scorched on iron prongs.
+
+"At this moment I awoke and hurried down to the ship, and with horror
+found the dreadful meal prepared. One of the nymphs, immortal
+shepherdess, flew to the Sun to tell him that my men had slain his
+cattle. Helios was deeply angered, and spoke thus before the assembled
+gods: 'Father Zeus and all ye immortal gods, behold the comrades of
+Odysseus! They have slaughtered my heifers, which gladdened my heart
+as I went up to heaven and down to earth.
+
+"'If they do not pay me well for this great wrong, I shall go down
+among the dead and give them light, but I will give no light to the
+living.' 'Shine on, O Sun, in the bright sky,' said Zeus, 'for I will
+cut their ship to pieces with a thunder-bolt, as it tosses on a black
+sea.' I could only chide my comrades. I could not think of any
+sufficient redress, for the cattle were dead.
+
+"And here happened a wonder which amazed my comrades. The skins of
+the dead animals crawled over the ground, and the flesh lowed as they
+had done when alive. Nevertheless, my companions continued to kill
+and eat the best oxen in the herds for six days, when a favorable
+wind sprang up, and we went on board and set sail once more.
+
+"After we had lost sight of land, and nothing was before us but sky
+and sea, a sudden darkness shrouded the heavens, and there arose a
+violent storm. The vessel was hurled hither and thither by the
+towering billows; the hurricane tore the sails and dashed the mast
+against the pilot's head, crushing the bones, and he was cast headlong
+into the sea.
+
+"Then Zeus sent a thunder-bolt into the ship, and broke it nearly
+in two. The boat was filled with a sulphurous smoke, and my comrades
+were shaken off into the sea and drowned. They floated round me, but
+I moved about in the ship until the bottom and the sides had broken
+away from each other and the mast had snapped off at its base. I took
+the mast, which had a thong of bull's-hide round it, and tied it to
+the keel. I took my seat upon this frail craft, and the storm whirled
+me about.
+
+"After awhile the west wind ceased, and the south wind began to blow,
+which was still worse for me, since it took me back to dread Charybdis.
+All night long I was tossed on the waves, and at dawn I drew near
+to Charybdis. As the monster was swallowing the salt brine, I caught
+hold of the fig-tree and clung to it like a bat till she should throw
+up my poor raft. I waited long, but at last the timbers were thrown
+out of the whirlpool, and I dropped down upon them, and sat on them
+and rowed with my hands. I floated about on the waters for nine long
+days, and on the tenth I came to Calypso's island. She welcomed me,
+and detained me seven years, as I have already told thee, O Aret�,
+and why should I repeat a tale already narrated?"
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVI
+THE DEPARTURE OF ODYSSEUS FROM THE ISLAND OF SCHERIA
+
+
+All the guests had listened with deep attention to the recital of
+Odysseus; all were greatly interested, and when he ended they did
+not stir or speak a word. Alkino�s was the first to break the silence,
+and he said: "Renowned Odysseus, since thou hast come to our country,
+I hope that thy sufferings are at an end and that thou wilt reach
+thy native land safely and soon." Then the King turned to his guests
+and addressed them: "Ph�acians, let us each present one more gift,
+a large tripod and a vase, to the hero who has come among us."
+
+The Ph�acians received his words approvingly, and each went at once
+to his home to sleep. But when morning came they all sent their gifts
+to the ship, where they were packed carefully under the benches by
+the King himself, and the guests returned to the palace, where a
+banquet was spread for them.
+
+Alkino�s sacrificed an ox to Zeus, and they sat down at the table.
+The enjoyment ran high, and the old poet, Demodokos, sang sweet songs.
+They feasted all day, and when the sun was near its setting Odysseus
+said: "King Alkino�s, let us pour out the last libation and offer
+up the last prayer, for all things have come to pass that my soul
+desired. May the gods bless thy gifts. May I find my home, my wife
+and child, and friends. I pray the gods to grant thee all that is
+good, and may no evil ever befall thy land. Be pleased to send me
+hence, and fare thee well."
+
+Thus he spoke, right glad that the day was done and eager to set sail.
+The people approved his timely words, and seizing their goblets they
+poured out wine on to the ground, an offering to the gods, and they
+wished godspeed to their guest. Odysseus arose and placed a goblet
+in the hands of the Queen, addressing her thus: "Farewell, O Queen,
+I wish thee a long and happy life, a peaceful old age down to the
+grave, from which no one may escape; rejoice in the possession of
+thy home, thy people, thy children, and the King, thy husband."
+
+So spoke Odysseus, and left the hall. The King sent a herald to show
+him the way to the port where the ship was waiting for him. At the
+same time Aret� also sent down some maids, who carried a new cloak
+and tunic, a well-wrought coffer full of gifts, and an abundance of
+food for the journey.
+
+These things the crew took from their hands and stowed away in the
+hold of the vessel. They spread a nice bed for him on the deck, where
+he might sleep quietly. When every thing was ready, Odysseus embarked,
+and the sailors slipped the cables and took their seats at the oars.
+Odysseus fell into a deep, sweet slumber, but the ship flew forward
+faster than a bird could fly, making rapid headway toward the island
+of Ithaca.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVII
+ODYSSEUS ARRIVES AT ITHACA
+
+
+When the morning star arose the ship reached Ithaca. It entered a
+harbor called Phorkys, where there was a grotto sacred to the nymphs,
+and it was shaded at the entrance by an olive-tree. Stone vases stood
+around in the grotto, and there bees had stored up honey. The nymphs
+spun their fine thread from stone spindles there, and wove their
+sea-purple robes. Springs of cool water flowed through the grotto,
+and there was an entrance for mortals and one which was kept holy
+for the gods.
+
+When the ship touched the beach the sailors disembarked and carried
+the sleeping Odysseus on a rug on to the shore and laid him down.
+They brought his presents also from under the ship's benches and laid
+them under the olive-tree, a short distance from the road, for fear
+that some evil-minded person would take them before Odysseus woke
+up.
+
+Then the crew sailed homeward, but Poseidon saw them and was angry
+because his purpose to cause Odysseus endless suffering had been
+thwarted. He at once complained to Zeus that the Ph�acians had
+restored Odysseus to his native land, with gifts finer and more
+valuable than anything he could have brought from Troy. Zeus listened
+to his complaint and gave him authority to destroy the Ph�acian boat
+and its crew. Poseidon promptly repaired to the island of Scheria,
+and when the ship came in sight of the town he transformed it into
+a towering rock, that it might hide the island from mariners and the
+Ph�acians would no longer be tempted to escort strangers to their
+homes.
+
+The ship had gone, and it was broad daylight when Odysseus awoke.
+He did not recognize his own country, he had been away from it for
+such a long time, and besides that, Athena had spread a dense fog
+over it. His first thought was that the Ph�acians had deceived him
+and left him on an unknown shore. He began to accuse them of treachery,
+and prayed to Zeus to punish them. He looked around and found that
+his gifts had been carefully placed, so he knew that he had not been
+robbed. He counted his gifts and examined them.
+
+There were tripods and vases of gold and brass and beautiful
+hand-woven garments. He paced up and down the shore and wept and wailed
+aloud. Then Athena appeared to him disguised as a shepherd lad.
+
+When Odysseus saw her, he hastened to her and said: "Hail, fair youth!
+I am a stranger and find myself for the first time in this place.
+I entreat thee to tell me the name of this country, and what kind
+of people inhabit it." The goddess answered him: "Truly, stranger,
+thou must come from a far-off land that thou dost not know Ithaca,
+which is known from the rising to the setting of the sun.
+
+"It is indeed a stony island but it is not barren, nor is it a good
+place for raising horses. It is rich in grain and grapes. It has an
+abundance of dew and rain, and most delicious wine is made here.
+Nowhere can be found handsomer goats or finer cattle. Every kind of
+tree grows in its forests, and its springs are never dry. The fame
+of Ithaca has reached even as far as Troy itself which, I am told,
+lies far from Hellas."
+
+Odysseus was overjoyed to find that he was in his own country. But
+he did not venture to tell his name to the shepherd, nor whence he
+came. Instead of that he told a long story that he came from Crete,
+which he had been obliged to leave because he had killed the King's
+son, who had robbed him.
+
+Athena smiled and, assuming the form of a beautiful woman, took him
+by the hand and said: "Thou crafty man, why dost thou tell such lies?
+Dost thou not know Athena, daughter of Zeus, who has protected thee
+everywhere and saved thee from all danger? I have just come again
+to assist thee in hiding thy treasures and to tell thee what thou
+must encounter in thine own palace. But thou must not repeat anything
+which I tell thee, nor make thyself known to any man or woman. And
+thou must bear many indignities in silence until the right time comes,
+for there are many violent men in thy halls."
+
+Odysseus's heart was filled with joy. He knelt down and kissed the
+soil of his native land. "Tell me, is it true," he said, "that I am
+in my own beloved Ithaca? I pray thee, goddess, do not jest with me."
+
+"Thy native land! Such ever is thy thought," answered the goddess.
+"Any other man would have hastened with all speed to his wife and
+home. But thou must wait and come not at once into the presence of
+Penelope. She sits within thy palace, weeping night and day because
+thou dost not come. Hide thy gifts here in this grotto, and I will
+tell thee what to do next."
+
+With a glad heart Odysseus saluted the nymphs of the cave and spring:
+"Hail to you, nymphs of my native land, daughters of Zeus! I thought
+I should never see you again. I shall bring you rich gifts in days
+to come, if it please Athena to keep me from harm." After he had carried
+the presents into the grotto and carefully hidden them, he sat down
+with the goddess among the gnarled roots of the olive-tree, and they
+laid plots to destroy Penelope's impudent suitors. Athena told him
+about the trouble they had caused her; how they had established
+themselves in her own home, trying to win her for a wife. For three
+years the noble Penelope had kept these arrogant men in suspense,
+deluded with empty hopes, while she waited for her husband's return.
+When Odysseus heard these words he was greatly disturbed, and said:
+"Woe is me! I might have been slain in my own home but for these timely
+words. Now I am forearmed. Stand by me, I pray, in my great need,
+and give me strength to meet my enemies. If thou art my helper, I
+can resist, single-handed, three hundred foes."
+
+"Take courage," said the goddess. "But to carry out our plans I must
+change thee to a miserable old man with a wrinkled face and clad in
+ragged garments, so that no one can recognize thee.
+
+"Then must thou go to thy faithful swineherd, Eumaios, who loves thy
+wife and child and thy whole house.
+
+"Thou wilt find him as he feeds the swine on acorns in a field near
+the mountain, Korax, and the spring, Arethusa. He will tell thee all
+the doings in thy house. Meantime I will take my way to Sparta.
+Telemachos, thy son, is there. He went to visit Menelaos and try to
+find out if there were any news of thee. I will call him to return
+to Ithaca."
+
+The goddess touched Odysseus with her magic wand. At once he shrank
+and withered into a wrinkled, shabby, old beggar. Then she gave him
+a staff and a tattered sack and sent him to his loyal swineherd while
+she took her way to Sparta.
+
+[Illustration: ALPHEUS AND ARETHUSA]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVIII
+ODYSSEUS SEEKS THE SWINEHERD
+
+
+Odysseus left the haven by a narrow stony path and took his way to
+the dwelling of his faithful swineherd, who thought more of the
+welfare of his master than did all the rest of the servants whom
+Odysseus had. He found him seated in the yard which he himself had
+made of stone for the swine of the absent King, and had enclosed with
+a thick hedge of thorns. He had driven strong posts of oak around
+it, also. Inside the yard he had made twelve sties, and in each sty
+there were fifty sows with their little ones. The males were kept
+outside and were fewer in number, for Eumaios was compelled to send
+a very fat one to the suitors every day, and therefore there were
+only eighteen score.
+
+Near them were four large savage dogs as guards. They were more like
+wolves than dogs. Eumaios was busy making a pair of sandals from an
+ox-hide, for his own use. The other swineherds had gone on errands,
+three of them to drive pigs to pasture, while the fourth had taken
+a hog to the suitors in the city.
+
+When the dogs saw Odysseus they barked and rushed upon him, and they
+would have torn him to pieces, but Eumaios drove them off with stones
+and said: "Thou poor old man, the dogs came very near tearing thee
+limb from limb, and that would have been a great shame and sorrow
+to me.
+
+"The gods have already sent me trouble enough. Here I sit weeping
+and mourning for my beloved master, and take care of his swine in
+order that strangers may eat them. Who knows where he may be wandering
+as a beggar among people who speak another tongue? But come, old man,
+let us go into my lodge and eat, and then thou mayest tell me who
+thou art and what misfortunes thou hast suffered."
+
+Odysseus followed the swineherd into the cabin. Eumaios threw an
+armful of rushes on the floor and covered it with a rug of goat-skin
+and bade his guest be seated.
+
+Odysseus was gratified at this kind reception, and said to the
+swineherd: "May Zeus and all the other immortal gods give thee, my
+host, all the good of earth for thy hospitality."
+
+The good swineherd answered him: "My guest, I should consider it a
+great sin not to receive a stranger hospitably, even if he looked
+more miserable than thou. Strangers and beggars are children of Zeus.
+The hospitality I can extend to thee is slight but sincere, for
+servants have little to offer, especially when, like me, they have
+new masters. Odysseus loved me much. Would that the gods might send
+him back to us. He would have paid me for my toil. He would have given
+me a home, a little land, and a wife. But he is dead. May the whole
+race of Helen be destroyed, for it was she who brought noble men to
+destruction."
+
+The swineherd drew his belt around him and hastened to the pen where
+the pigs were shut up. He seized two little pigs and slew them and
+roasted them on a spit over the fire. He sprinkled salt over the savory
+meat and brought it to Odysseus. And he brought delicate wine in a
+wooden cup, as well.
+
+Then he said: "Eat, stranger, for this is the best I have to give.
+The suitors, who fear neither god nor man, eat the fat hogs. They
+gorge themselves with the costliest food in the house, both wine and
+meat, and only these little lean porkers are left for us. Yet there
+is still an abundance, for my master was very rich. He had twelve
+herds of horned cattle and as many swine on the mainland, and twelve
+flocks of sheep and goats. Here, on the island, graze eleven flocks
+of goats, tended by as many trusty herdsmen, each of whom has to send
+a fattened goat for the table of the suitors every day. As for myself,
+I take care of these swine, and each day I choose the best to send
+to the city."
+
+Odysseus ate the flesh and drank the wine while Eumaios was telling
+him these things, and could hardly keep from giving vent to his anger.
+But he kept silence and meditated vengeance on the suitors. When the
+meal was done he said: "Tell me, I pray thee, all about thy rich and
+kind master. Thou didst say that he went out with Agamemnon to fight
+the Trojans. Perhaps I know him and can give thee some information
+concerning him."
+
+The noble swineherd answered: "Be silent, aged man, for we have ceased
+to believe the tales told us by wanderers. Every beggar who comes
+this way calls on my mistress and tells her falsehoods about seeing
+Odysseus, and tries to make her think that he will come home in a
+short time. Then she treats him kindly and loads him with gifts.
+
+"How shall we know but thou dost make up just such a story in order
+to receive a tunic and a mantle? It is a fact that my master does
+not return. Who knows on what spot of the earth his bones are
+mouldering, or what dogs and birds have devoured him? I shall never
+cease to grieve for him. He loved me as he would have loved a son.
+I shall never find such a kind master again. Even my father and mother
+were not so good to me. Although he will never be with us any more,
+I keep on doing his will."
+
+[Illustration: THE SWINEHERD TELLING HIS STORY TO ODYSSEUS]
+
+Odysseus replied: "Thou dost see that I am half naked for want of
+clothing, but I will never take a reward, even though I am in rags,
+until Odysseus is really here. I hate the wretch who tells lies to
+enrich himself as I hate death. I call Zeus to witness, and this
+hospitable board and the hearth of Odysseus, that what I tell thee
+will come true. Odysseus will be here at the end of this month, and
+he will be avenged on those men who have robbed him and insulted his
+wife and son."
+
+"And yet I will not give thee any reward for thy news, old man," said
+Eumaios, "for Odysseus is dead. He will never come again. Drink in
+peace and let us talk of other things. Do not take this great oath,
+as much as we wish--Laertes, Penelope, Telemachos, and I--that
+Odysseus might come. But now, as if we had not troubles enough, a
+new one has come upon us. I know not what evil demon put it into the
+mind of Telemachos to go to Sparta to inquire about his father. And
+the ungodly suitors have sent out a ship to watch for him, and kill
+him on his return. We shall lose him, too, if Zeus does not hold a
+protecting hand over him.
+
+"But tell me, dear old man, from what country dost thou come? Who
+are thy parents? Tell me of thy toils and sufferings."
+
+The time had not yet come when Odysseus thought it best to reveal
+himself. He wanted to stay with the swineherd until his son should
+return, and he had had the opportunity of making the best plan for
+ridding his house of the suitors. So he told the swineherd a long
+string of stories. He said he was a son of the King of Crete; that
+he went to Troy, where he met Odysseus and fought by his side.
+Returning, he wandered about, and, after many adventures, met
+Odysseus again getting ready to return to Ithaca. As for himself,
+he had been robbed even to his clothing and cast on this island.
+
+He told the tale so well that the swineherd believed him, and even
+killed a fat hog in his honor. And he made him welcome to his lodge
+and prepared a good bed for him near the fire, and covered him with
+goat-skins. The night was cold and damp, and a cutting wind was blowing
+outside. The other servants lay down near Odysseus to sleep, but
+Eumaios took a sharp sword and thick mantle and went out near the
+pens to watch the swine all night. Odysseus saw with gratitude how
+faithfully this servant attended to his duty.
+
+
+
+
+PART III
+THE TRIUMPH OF ODYSSEUS
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIX
+ATHENA ADVISES TELEMACHOS
+
+
+At the time when Odysseus was wrecked, after his comrades had eaten
+of the cattle of Helios, and he was cast up on to the island of Calypso,
+Athena prayed to Zeus, her mighty sire, that he might be restored
+to Ithaca, his native land. She prayed that Hermes, the messenger
+of the gods, might be sent to Calypso with the express command that
+she should send Odysseus home. Zeus smiled and granted the request.
+
+Then Athena tied golden sandals under her feet and taking a long,
+heavy spear, she rushed like a whirlwind down from the heights of
+Olympos and stood at the doorway of Odysseus' house, among the men
+of Ithaca. She found the haughty suitors assembled there eating and
+drinking.
+
+Telemachos saw the goddess before anyone else. She was disguised to
+resemble Mentor, a wise chief who had led the Taphians in the Trojan
+war. Telemachos rose at once, like a gracious host, and took the right
+hand of the stranger and gave him a hearty welcome. Athena saw with
+anger how the ungodly wooers ate and drank and rioted gluttonously,
+while the servants of Telemachos were obliged to administer to their
+wants. Some of them were kept mixing the wines and water in large
+craters; others had to clear and clean the tables, and others again
+prepared and carved the meats and carried them round to the suitors.
+
+Telemachos led the stranger away from this noisy hall, that he might
+not be annoyed by their boisterous behavior. He bade him sit down
+on a throne, and placed a foot-stool under his feet. Then he drew
+his own chair from among the suitors and sat near the stranger, hoping
+to hear news of his absent father. A maid brought a silver pitcher
+and basin and let the stranger wash his hands. A table was placed
+before him, laden with the choicest viands, while a herald filled
+a goblet with wine for him. When they had enjoyed their meal,
+Telemachos asked the stranger his name and country.
+
+"I am Mentor, son of the Taphian King," said Athena. "I came here
+in my ship with a crew of friends, on a journey to the Isle of Cyprus,
+in search of copper, and I brought iron to give in exchange. I am
+an old friend of Odysseus. I have left my ship in the bay, back of
+the forest. Laertes will tell thee who I am. It is said that he does
+not come to the palace any more, but lives alone in the country,
+mourning over the loss of his son day and night. It seems that the
+gods have long delayed Odysseus. Who knows where he is? I am sure
+that he is not dead. And now tell me, what feast is going on here,
+and who are these men? Are they invited guests? Is it a banquet I
+see, or is there to be a wedding? It is not a pleasant sight in any
+case, for the men are coarse in their actions and ungodly in their
+speech. Every friend of Odysseus must feel sad to see them in this
+place."
+
+"As long as my father was here," answered Telemachos, "our house was
+respectable and rich. But the gods have forsaken us, and we are
+destined to destruction. No news of my father's death has ever reached
+us; nevertheless, all the young men of the first families of Ithaca
+and the surrounding isles flock to our house and seek my mother for
+a wife and squander my father's riches. My mother does not favor the
+idea of another marriage, and has not promised herself to any of the
+suitors. She fears them, and so she does not reject their suits, yet
+she will not end the trouble by marrying one of them. They will not
+go away, but make themselves at home here and eat up my inheritance.
+They only want a favorable opportunity to kill me."
+
+Athena grew angry at this, and said: "I would that Odysseus might
+come this very moment to chastise these atrocious fellows. Woe to
+them if he should appear at the door with his helmet and shield and
+two tough spears, just as he looked when I first beheld him in my
+own home. Then these suitors would find a bitter marriage-feast and
+a speedy end. Vengeance, however, rests with the gods.
+
+"Now, let me consider the best way to get these suitors out of the
+house. As an old friend of thy father, let me advise thee. To-morrow
+call thy people together in council and tell the suitors to depart.
+If thy mother has any inclination to wed again, send her to her
+father's house. He is rich and powerful, and can give her a splendid
+wedding, such as is suitable for the daughter of a king, and bestow
+an ample dower.
+
+"Then launch thy finest ship. Man it with twenty good oarsmen and
+put out to sea in search of thy father. Sail to Pylos first and consult
+with Nestor, and go to Sparta next and see Menelaos, who has returned
+from Troy recently. Stay with him awhile if he can assure thee that
+thy father lives. But if he tells thee that thy father is surely dead,
+return as quickly as possible and build a mound to him, and cause
+the altar to be piled high with sacrifices and the funeral games to
+take place. Then let thy mother marry again.
+
+"Thou art no longer a child, and it is not seemly to allow such
+indignities. Be brave and act without fear, that men may honor thee.
+When thou hast performed these deeds, let thy care be to drive out
+the suitors. But now I must return to my ship, for my companions will
+be uneasy over my long absence."
+
+"Thou hast spoken to me as a father speaks to a son," answered
+Telemachos. "I shall bear thy words in mind. And now I pray thee stay
+awhile to rest and bathe. I cannot let thee go to thy ship without
+some handsome gift, such as one always bestows upon an honored guest."
+
+"Telemachos, do not detain me longer," replied Athena. "I must depart
+at once. Keep thy gift until I return, and then I will take it to
+my home." She vanished as she spoke, and all that Telemachos saw was
+a fleet-winged bird flying upward high in the air. Telemachos was
+astonished, and knew that he had been talking face to face with some
+deity. He thought over all that the goddess had told him, and resolved
+to do exactly as he had been instructed.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXX
+TELEMACHOS ASTONISHES THE WOOERS
+
+
+The feast continued. The wooers ate and drank but were silent, for
+an illustrious bard was singing to them of the Trojan war. Telemachos
+walked forth in the midst of them, his heart inspired with courage.
+Penelope had heard the song as she sat in her chamber over the hall,
+and she came down the lofty stairway attended by two maids. She
+implored the bard, with tears to change the song, since it was the
+one most sacred to her and made her sad.
+
+Then said Telemachos: "My mother, let thy heart be strong to bear
+this song which all men love. The bard must sing the song with which
+he is inspired. Retire now, I pray thee, to thy room, and take thy
+maids with thee. There teach them to spin and weave--a task meet for
+a princess. But leave to me the ordering of the feast and the care
+of the suitors. Such a duty belongs to a man, and the authority is
+mine." Penelope was amazed at his words. She withdrew to her own rooms
+with her attendants and wept and mourned for her absent lord until
+she fell asleep.
+
+When the minstrel had finished his song, the suitors began to be noisy
+and riotous again. Telemachos could no longer restrain himself. "Ye
+insolent suitors of my mother," he said to them, "cease your uproar.
+Your lawlessness knows no bounds. To-morrow I will call a general
+assembly of all the Ithacans and warn you to depart. If ye remain
+in my house wasting my goods and eating food that is not your own
+I will call down vengeance from the gods, and ye shall die in this
+very palace."
+
+The suitors were astonished at his courage and his words. He had never
+before spoken out with authority. Antino�s and Eurymachos, the most
+insolent of them, began to ridicule him and excite the others to make
+fun of him. And they asked Telemachos what guest he had been
+entertaining so secretly and what news he had brought from his father.
+The suitors danced and sang, eating and drinking, until evening,
+before they went home.
+
+Telemachos then sought his own couch. His old nurse, Eurycleia, led
+the way with two torches. She had been a faithful servant since Laertes,
+in his early manhood, had bought her for the price of a hundred oxen.
+
+Telemachos sat down on his bed, and removing his tunic handed it to
+the nurse, who folded it and smoothed it and hung it up. He lay down
+and covered himself with soft fleeces, while Eurycleia went out and
+carefully locked the door. But sleep did not come to him. All night
+he thought of what the coming day would bring.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXI
+PENELOPE'S WEB
+
+
+The next morning, at dawn of day, Telemachos rose from his bed and
+put on his garments. He hung his sword over his shoulder and fastened
+his sandals on his feet and strode bravely forth. He summoned his
+heralds at once and bade them call a council of the Ithacans. The
+people came at the appointed time, and Telemachos, sceptre in hand,
+took his place before the assembly and called it to order.
+
+"I have not summoned you, my friends," he said, "in order that ye
+may see some entertaining show, but out of dire necessity. I bring
+no news of war and I have nothing to say that concerns the public
+good. You all know the grief which has befallen me on account of my
+father, your king and leader, who loved you as a parent loves his
+children. But Odysseus is gone and there is no hope of his return.
+This misfortune is not enough, for every day the young men of the
+leading families of Ithaca and the surrounding isles meet in my house
+and vex my mother with unseemly and importunate offers of marriage.
+
+"There they are now installed, eating our food, drinking our wine,
+and wasting our money, for Odysseus is not here to drive them out.
+I have no way of expelling them from my home. My friends, consider
+these wrongs and help me to drive these robbers from the house of
+your king. It would be a shame to the people of Ithaca if it were
+noised around that they left the son of their chief in the hands of
+plunderers without giving him help."
+
+Thus spoke Telemachos, the tears running down his cheeks, and he threw
+the sceptre on the ground. The people were greatly moved, and felt
+pity for the youth who had to suffer such wrongs, but they were silent.
+Only Antino�s, the most insolent of the suitors, took up the word
+and said: "Shameless Telemachos, how dost thou dare to chide us for
+this state of things! Thy mother is the one to blame. She has been
+leading us on for three whole years. She is skilful and crafty. She
+promised, three years ago, to choose one of us for a husband as soon
+as she should finish the winding-sheets for old Laertes in case of
+his death.
+
+"Then she began to weave upon her loom a dainty web of vast length
+and width. And she said to each one of us: 'Do not urge me to marry,
+I pray, until I finish these shrouds for the hero Laertes, when his
+hour of death shall come. I have spun an abundance of fine thread,
+and it must not be wasted. Besides that, the dames of Greece would
+speak ill of me if I should leave my husband's father without a shroud,
+for he has had great wealth all his life.' In this way Penelope gave
+us hope, and we were too generous to persist in forcing her to choose
+at once.
+
+"She went on in this way, weaving the great web by day, and every
+night she unravelled by torchlight all that she had woven by sunlight.
+She has deceived us long enough. We have discovered her fraud; for
+a woman who has seen her unravelling the web has told us all about
+it. She must finish the work and make her choice among her suitors.
+If thou dost wish us to leave thy house, thou shalt send thy mother
+to her parents and let her father command her to marry one of us,
+according to her choice. When this is done no one will disturb thee
+any longer.
+
+"If, however, Penelope prefers to treat the noble sons of Greece with
+such malice and craft, we will go right on consuming thy goods. She
+will thus make a great name for herself, but she will impoverish thee."
+
+"I shall never send my mother away from her husband's house," rejoined
+Telemachos. "Living or dead, my father is in distant lands, and if
+I should dismiss his wife of my own will, I should invite the hatred
+of the gods on my guilty head. She would call upon the Furies to haunt
+me; all men would curse me; and her father would demand ample
+satisfaction of me. I will never speak the word to send her forth.
+Now, get you gone and cease squandering my riches or I will call down
+the wrath of the gods on you."
+
+Having said this, Telemachos sat down, and Zeus sent two eagles flying
+over the heads of the wooers, close to each other. They looked down
+upon the crowd of people and tore each other's heads and vanished.
+The Ithacans saw the deadly omen, and a venerable prophet among them
+stood up and said: "Noble youths, I advise you seriously to depart
+from this royal house, for this is a sign that Odysseus is coming
+home. Woe to you if he finds you in his palace. You will all meet
+a direful end."
+
+Eurymachos answered him: "Old man, keep thy advice and thy forebodings
+for thine own children. We do not need them. Advise Telemachos to
+change his mind and send his mother home to her father, instead of
+prating foolishly to us. As long as he keeps her here we shall continue
+to consume his wealth, until he has nothing left. And we will punish
+thee severely if thou dost incite this young man to violence."
+
+Telemachos, thinking it best to be discreet, replied: "Now hear me,
+Eurymachos, and all ye suitors. Give me a good ship and twenty men,
+that I may go from land to land in search of my father. If I find
+that he lives and may return, I will wait one year longer for him
+to reach home. But if I hear that he is not alive, I will come back
+and build a mound to his memory and give him a funeral worthy of such
+a king. Then shall my mother make her choice and wed."
+
+Mentor, the stanch friend and adviser of Odysseus, sat among the
+Ithacans in the assembly. When he saw how Telemachos was put to shame,
+he grew angry. He rose to his feet, and addressed the people: "No
+king ever again should be wise and good. He should be hard and unjust,
+since no one of you has enough love for Odysseus to stand by his son.
+I am less ashamed of the impudent suitors, than I am of the weaklings
+who see what they are doing and who dare not interfere."
+
+"Foolish old Mentor," said one of the suitors, "what art thou saying!
+If Odysseus, himself, should come hither, he would not be able to
+drive us out. If anyone thinks himself strong enough to do it, let
+him try it. Ye Ithacans disperse to your homes, and leave Mentor to
+provide the boy with a ship." So saying he dispersed the crowd, and
+the wooers all went into the palace to continue their revelry.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXII
+THE JOURNEY OF TELEMACHOS
+
+
+Telemachos left the assembly and went down to the sea-shore alone,
+and washing his hands in the surf called on the goddess who had
+appeared to him the day before to come to his assistance. At once
+Athena stood by his side in the guise and with the voice of Mentor.
+She urged him to hasten his journey. Telemachos took new courage,
+and returned at once to his house where he found his old nurse,
+Eurycleia, alone. He revealed to her his intention, and asked her
+to assist him in getting everything ready for the journey. He bade
+her draw twelve jars of the best wine, and twelve skins of the finest
+meal to put aboard the ship.
+
+When the old nurse heard this she wept and beat her breast. "Dear
+child," she said, "who has put such a thought into thy mind? Why
+shouldst thou, an only son and well beloved, wander off to a distant
+land? Be warned by what thy father had to suffer because he left his
+own country. The suitors will plot to kill thee and divide thy wealth.
+Stay here, at home; there is no need that thou shouldst venture over
+the fearful sea."
+
+Telemachos answered her: "Take courage, my good nurse; this journey
+is advised of a god. Do not let my mother know of my departure for
+eleven or twelve days, lest she weep and mourn."
+
+The nurse promised most solemnly that she would keep his secret and
+execute his orders. She drew the wine into the jars and filled the
+strong skins with meal. Meantime, Athena, blue-eyed goddess, taking
+the form of Telemachos, went through the city and urged the men to
+repair to the ships at sundown, for she had chosen the best boats
+in Ithaca for the youth, and found for him a crew that was glad to
+serve him.
+
+Then the blue-eyed maid went to the palace and poured sleep upon the
+eyelids of the drunken suitors. They gladly sought their beds in their
+own homes. Taking the form of Mentor, she next appeared to Telemachos
+and bade him follow her to the beach. When they reached the galley,
+he found his comrades waiting. They hurried up to the palace for the
+wine and meal, which they soon brought to the ship and stored in the
+hold. Then the crew slipped the cables which held the ship to the
+shore. Athena took her seat at the stern and Telemachos sat near her.
+The sails were spread and the sailors began to ply their oars. Athena
+raised a favorable breeze and the vessel glided forward cutting her
+way through the roaring waters.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXIII
+TELEMACHOS IN PYLOS
+
+
+At sunrise the ship arrived at Pylos. The people of that town were
+all assembled on the shore, where they were sacrificing coal-black
+oxen to Poseidon. Some were burning fat upon the altar, and others
+were distributing food among those who were offering up the sacrifices,
+while all were eating.
+
+The Ithacans touched land. Telemachos and Athena disembarked,
+leaving the crew to guard the ship, and went up to the crowd. On the
+way Athena cheered Telemachos and advised him what to say to the people.
+When they had come near enough to the inhabitants to be seen by them,
+the people rose and came to meet the strangers. First of all, the
+son of Nestor, Peisistratos, approached and took each of them by the
+hand and led them to the feast. He bade them be seated near his father
+and brought them the choicest meat.
+
+After the strangers had eaten, Peisistratos filled a golden goblet
+with wine, and handed it to Mentor, as the elder. Mentor was pleased
+with the young man's good breeding and he took the goblet and poured
+out a part of it on the ground as a sacrifice to Poseidon, with a
+prayer for a safe return. Then he handed the goblet to Telemachos,
+and he did likewise.
+
+When the feast was over, Nestor, the King of Pylos, said to his guests:
+"The time has come, dear strangers, when it is fitting to ask your
+names, and from what land you come. Do you roam the seas as pirates,
+or do you come on an errand?"
+
+"We are Greeks," said Telemachos. "We come from Ithaca to seek tidings
+of my father, the unfortunate Odysseus, who went to war against Troy
+with thee and the other Greek chiefs. We have never heard anything
+of him during all these long years and do not know whether he is living
+or dead. I pray thee tell me anything thou may'st know about him,
+and conceal nothing."
+
+"My son," Nestor replied, "thou dost call to mind the great sufferings
+borne by the men of Greece ere we succeeded in conquering Priam's
+town. It would take years to tell thee of the brave deeds of the Greeks,
+how they fought and where they fell. We passed nine years in worrying
+the enemy, and there was no man who gave better counsel or performed
+nobler deeds than did Odysseus. Art thou then his son? I look on thee
+in wonder. Yes, thou art like him. How strange to hear so young a
+man speak as he did!
+
+"After the destruction of Troy, the surviving Greeks embarked, and
+we set out for home. But when we reached Tenedos, thy father returned
+to Troy to join Agamemnon and the others, who had stayed behind, to
+appease the wrath of Athena, for a Greek had committed sacrilege in
+her temple.
+
+"Our voyage was prosperous, and we all reached home except Menelaos,
+who wandered about in Crete and Egypt for a long time. It is said
+that the noble son of Achilles returned home safely, and that
+Agamemnon was slain in his own house, and his son took vengeance on
+his murderers. There is a rumor, too, that many suitors hang about
+thy mother, and, in spite of thy remonstrances, consume thy riches.
+Be brave, my son, and yield not. Odysseus may come again. Go at once
+to Menelaos, for he may have news of thy father. I will give thee
+swift horses and a chariot, and my sons will drive."
+
+All day Telemachos discoursed with Nestor, and when the sun went down,
+they poured wine on the earth and burned an offering to the gods.
+Telemachos and Mentor arose to retire to their ship, but Nestor begged
+them to be his guests and go to the royal palace. Mentor, as the elder
+of the two, excused himself, in order to join the crew, and suddenly
+disappeared. Nestor recognized that Telemachos was attended by the
+goddess, and offered a prayer to her. The assembly dispersed, and
+Nestor, with his guest and his sons, retired to his palace.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXIV
+TELEMACHOS IN SPARTA
+
+
+Before the sun was fairly up, they all arose and seated themselves
+on the smooth stone benches that loomed up in the gloaming, white
+and shining, before the gates of the palace. Nestor bade one of his
+sons to prepare an offering to Athena, of the best heifer in the fields.
+He sent another son to call a skilled workman to plate the heifer's
+horns with gold, and two others yet to bring the crew from the ship.
+He told the remaining two sons to bid the maids prepare a sumptuous
+feast in honor of their guest.
+
+In a moment there was a busy scene. The heifer was brought up from
+the fields, and her horns were adorned with pure gold in hopes that
+Athena would see it and be pleased. The sailors came from the ship,
+except two who were left as guards. The heifer was slain and parts
+were burned as an offering to the goddess, and cakes and wine also
+were thrown into the flames to complete the sacrifice. They roasted
+the flesh on long iron forks with five prongs, and feasted upon it.
+
+Then Nestor said to his sons: "Bring now the chariot and horses and
+let our guest depart in search of news concerning his renowned
+father." The horses were soon harnessed to the car, which was stored
+with wine and bread and dainties fit for a prince. Telemachos climbed
+into the seat. Peisistratos took his place beside him and grasped
+the reins. The horses dashed off in high spirit, and Pylos was soon
+left in the distance. All day the horses sped along. At night they
+rested by the way and early the next morning went on again as swiftly
+as before. As the sun went down they found themselves in Sparta, the
+land of plenty, and at the gates of Menelaos, the king.
+
+Here they found many guests assembled at the wedding banquet of
+Hermione, the daughter of Menelaos. That day she had been given as
+a bride to Neoptolemos, the son of Achilles. A minstrel was playing
+a harp and singing, while two dancers performed graceful feats to
+give life to the feast.
+
+One of the attendants of Menelaos saw the strangers drive up, and
+stepped out to see who was coming. Then he hastened back to Menelaos
+and told him that two strangers of princely bearing were at the palace
+gate, and asked if he should unharness their horses or send them on
+their way. Menelaos was vexed that any of his servants should be so
+lax in hospitality, and told him he had acted like a foolish child,
+and reminded him of the gifts that had been showered on them when
+they wandered so long in foreign lands. And he bade him hasten to
+unharness the steeds, and give them oats and barley, and bid the
+strangers welcome to the feast.
+
+Telemachos and Peisistratos were amazed at the beauty of the palace.
+They bathed in the marble baths, rubbed themselves with oil and put
+on the splendid tunics that were brought them. After that they entered
+the great hall, where each was seated on a throne near the king. A
+handmaid brought a golden pitcher and a silver bowl for their hands,
+and a table was placed before them laden with choice food. When they
+had eaten enough, golden beakers of wine were handed them, and then
+the monarch gave his hand to each of them, saying: "Ye have come in
+good time, my friends. As soon as ye have finished your feast, I will
+ask your names and whence ye come, for ye look like sons of kings."
+
+As they sat there Telemachos, bending his head toward Peisistratos,
+said, in a low tone, so that he thought no one else would hear: "Surely,
+O son of Nestor, the Olympian home of Zeus himself could not be more
+glorious than this palace. See the gold and ivory, and shining brass.
+These things are beyond price in richness." Menelaos caught the words,
+although he spoke so low, and said: "My sons, there is no palace that
+can compare with the home of the gods. The riches which you look at
+in astonishment I collected while wandering in Egypt and in Crete.
+I find no pleasure in them, however, for I found my brother, King
+Agamemnon slain when I reached home. Would that the men who fought
+before Troy had their share of this wealth! I often weep and mourn
+for them in my palace, and am unable to eat or sleep on account of
+the misery I have brought upon my friends.
+
+"For none of them do I mourn so much as I do for Odysseus, who suffered
+the most of all on my behalf. I would gladly give all my wealth, if
+I only knew him to be safe. But we do not know whether he is dead
+or living. How much his old father must have grieved for him. How
+many tears his wife, Penelope, must have shed, and his high-minded
+son, Telemachos, what sorrow he has suffered."
+
+New despair filled the heart of Telemachos, and tears fell from his
+eyes. He held his purple mantle to hide his grief and wept in silence.
+When Menelaos saw this, he at once suspected that the young man was
+no other than the sorrowing son of Odysseus, and he felt perplexed
+for want of suitable words. He could not decide whether to question
+him about his father, or to wait and let the youth speak out of his
+own will.
+
+Just then Helen entered the hall from her high-roofed chamber, looking
+like a goddess in her dazzling beauty. She sat down at her husband's
+feet, while servants ran to bring the mat which she was weaving and
+the distaff filled with fine-spun purple thread. Her fingers flew
+over the dainty work while she questioned the king: "Didst thou ask
+the strangers their names? It is not possible that there can be any
+man so like to Odysseus except his son, as is this youth! I see him
+with astonishment. His father left him at home a little babe, when
+the Greeks went forth to war for my sake. Is it not true that this
+is Telemachos?"
+
+Menelaos replied: "My wife, I think thou hast spoken truly. The young
+man has the hands, the feet, and the features of Odysseus, and he
+cannot hide his grief at the mention of that hero's name."
+Peisistratos took up the word and said: "He is, indeed, the son of
+Odysseus, O king! My father, Nestor, sent me with him to inquire what
+you might know of the long-lost chieftain, and to beg you to give
+him advice, for he has to suffer great wrongs in his house and there
+is no one to assist him."
+
+Menelaos was heartily glad to hear that his guest was really
+Telemachos. But the remembrance of his old friend overcame him and
+he wept bitter tears. "I thought when I was in Troy," he said, "that
+I should one day welcome Odysseus to my home. I would have given him
+land and cities and brought to Sparta all his people and his wealth.
+Then we would always have lived close together and nothing could have
+parted us. But he has never returned." The tears fell from his eyes
+and Helen wept as well. Peisistratos then said to Menelaos: "Son of
+Atreus, my father says that thou art good and wise. Let us not, I
+entreat, continue this sad discourse, since this is a day that should
+not be given to lamentations. I lost a brother, also, at Troy. But
+we will honor these heroes at a proper time, with tears and by cutting
+off our locks. Let us not spoil the feast with mourning."
+
+They spent the rest of the day in making the festival as cheerful
+as if there were no grief to be hidden, and when night came the Argive
+Helen ordered the servants to prepare beds for them in the portico
+and cover them with tapestries, while she poured for them a soothing
+wine and dismissed them to their slumbers. The heralds led them to
+their couches, where they found a welcome rest.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXV
+MENELAOS RELATES HIS ADVENTURES
+
+
+The next morning Menelaos rose from his couch very early, put on his
+garments, hung his sword over his shoulder, laced his sandals, and
+went into his hall looking like a god. He sat down near Telemachos,
+and asked him to tell him frankly why he had come to Sparta.
+
+Telemachos then told him of the evil deeds of the suitors, and besought
+him to give him every possible clew to his father's whereabouts.
+Menelaos was indignant over the young man's wrongs.
+
+"Shame on the cowards who wish to rule over thy father's house," he
+said. "Let Odysseus return and he will tear them to pieces as a lion
+tears a young deer. Grant, O father Zeus, and Athena, and Apollo,
+that Odysseus may yet give those ungodly suitors a bitter wedding
+feast. But I will tell thee of my travels and what was told me by
+the Ancient Spirit of the sea.
+
+"It happened that the gods detained me many days in Egypt to sacrifice
+and do penance, for I had forgotten to make proper offerings to them.
+The island of Pharos lies just off the coast of Egypt. There I remained
+until the daughter of the Ancient Sea King, seeing my distress, came
+to my rescue.
+
+"My men and I had wandered over the island in search of food until
+we were nearly starved, when she discovered us, and told us that our
+efforts would be useless unless we consulted with her father. 'If
+thou canst ensnare him and hold him in thy grasp,' she said, 'he will
+tell thee how to reach thy home. He is a seer, and can tell thee all
+that has taken place there during thy absence. At noon-tide he comes
+out from the ocean caves covered with brine, and lies down among the
+sea-calves, rank with the smell of salt. He counts them five at a
+time, and then he stretches himself out among them and goes to sleep.
+He is very shrewd, and when thou hast caught him he will struggle
+and take all sorts of forms to escape thee. He will turn into a reptile,
+and into fire and then will change to water. But hold him fast, and
+when he looks as he did when first perceived by thee, ask him how
+to find thy home.'
+
+"The next morning, I sought the aged sea-god as I had been bidden.
+I took three old comrades whom I knew to be trusty, and we went down
+into the depths of the sea. The goddess brought us four fresh hides
+that had just been taken from sea-calves newly slaughtered, and we
+dressed ourselves in them to deceive her father. She scooped out
+places for us to lie in on the sands and we waited for him to come.
+The smell was sickening and beyond endurance, so the goddess put
+ambrosia under our noses. When the sun was highest in the heavens,
+the sea-calves came in groups and ranged themselves around in rows
+on the sand. The old seer came out and counted all, and did not notice
+our fraud. Then he lay down to sleep. At once, we rushed upon him
+and caught him. He began to take all kinds of shapes. First, he was
+a lion; then a serpent, a panther, a boar, a fountain of water, and
+a tree. We held on until he was tired of trying to escape.
+
+"At last he took his proper form, and began to question me. 'Son of
+Atreus,' he said, 'who hath taught thee how to make me a prisoner?
+What is it thou wouldst know?' 'Tell me what god is angry with me,
+O Proteus,' I replied. 'Why am I detained on this island? Why can
+I not reach my home?' 'Thou didst not make acceptable sacrifices to
+Zeus,' said Proteus. 'And thou wilt never see thy home again until
+thou hast offered up a hundred oxen to the immortal gods.'
+
+"'I will perform that rite speedily, oh prophet,' I replied. 'But
+tell me about my comrades in the Trojan war. Did they reach home in
+safety?'
+
+"Then Proteus told me all; how Ajax died amid his ships; how Agamemnon
+was slain in his own hall; and of Laertes' son he said that he had
+seen him sitting in a grotto on Calypso's Isle. There upon the rocks
+or at the ocean-side he weeps and mourns day after day, and gazes
+out upon the deep. His comrades are lost, and he has no ship with
+which to return to Ithaca. And after he had spoken he plunged into
+the sea while I returned to my ships, offered up the hundred oxen
+to Zeus and sailed for home. And now, Telemachos, I pray thee remain
+awhile with me, and I will dismiss thee with a chariot and swift horses,
+and a cup of priceless worth with which to pour libations to the gods."
+
+Telemachos took new courage when he heard that his father still lived,
+and begged that he might go back at once to Pylos to join his crew.
+In a moment all were busy in the palace of Menelaos preparing gifts
+and a feast that the youths might depart on the morrow.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXVI
+THE CONSPIRACY OF THE SUITORS
+
+
+One day while Telemachos was in Sparta, the guest of Menelaos, the
+suitors were more riotous than usual. They diverted themselves in
+the palace of Odysseus by throwing the discus and javelin. Only
+Antino�s and the handsome Eurymachos kept apart from them. Then No�mon,
+who had given Telemachos his ship a few days before, approached them
+and said: "Antino�s, I would gladly know when Telemachos will return
+from Pylos. I lent him my ship, and I need it for I intend to go to
+Elis, where I have business."
+
+The suitors were completely taken by surprise, for they had not heard
+that Telemachos had gone to Pylos. They thought that he was out at
+the farm with his swineherd. Antino�s asked: "When did Telemachos
+sail, and what crew did he take? Did he use force in getting thy ship
+or didst thou lend it willingly?"
+
+"He was welcome to the ship," replied No�mon. "Who would not have
+done such a service to a man who has had so much to endure? The young
+men who went with him belong to the best families of Ithaca." No�mon
+could not get any news of Telemachos, so he went home; but the suitors
+conspired to kill Telemachos. They decided that Antino�s should man
+a ship with a crew of twenty men, and lie in ambush in the waters
+near Ithaca, in order that they might catch Telemachos, on his return.
+
+This wicked plot of the suitors was betrayed to the queen, by her
+faithful herald, Medon. Penelope was overcome with grief, and wept
+bitterly, and her loyal attendants mourned with her. "What new grief
+is this which befalls me now?" she said. "Is it not enough that death
+has robbed me of my husband? Am I also to lose my only child, without
+even having seen him before his departure? Alas! why did no one tell
+me he was going, that I might have prevented his journey? Haste ye
+to Laertes and tell him what has happened, that he may make some plan
+to upset this plot to destroy his heir, the son of Odysseus."
+
+Then Eurycleia, the nurse, tried to console her with these soothing
+words: "My daughter, I will not hide the truth from thee any longer.
+I gave Telemachos a generous supply of food and wine, all that he
+could use on his journey. And I promised him solemnly that I would
+not tell thee of his departure, since he had a great dread that thou
+wouldst weep and mourn, and spoil thy lovely face and injure thy health.
+Now dry thy tears and bathe, and put on fresh robes. Then go to thine
+altar in the upper chamber with thy maids. There pray to Athena and
+burn incense to her. Do not alarm good old Laertes needlessly."
+
+Penelope followed the old nurse's advice. She went to the altar, at
+the highest part of the house, and there she prayed to Athena: "Hear
+me, daughter of Zeus! If ever my beloved husband has sacrificed to
+thee the fat limbs of oxen or sheep, and has built thee altars, save
+my son, Telemachos, and destroy the suitors, who fain would destroy
+him." The goddess heard her prayer, and sent sweet slumber and a
+pleasant dream to assuage her grief. In her sleep she saw her sister,
+who said to her: "Be of good cheer, Penelope; no harm will come to
+thy son, for a god goes with him." To her, the wise Penelope, yet
+dreaming, answered: "My sister, why is it thou hast never come to
+me before? Thy home is far away. I weep because I have lost my noble
+husband, and now his enemies conspire to slay my only son." The dream
+replied: "Take heart. Do not fear. Athena sent me to tell thee that
+she will protect thy son."
+
+"Oh, tell me," cried the queen, in her dreams, "tell me if my husband
+lives, since thou art sent by a goddess." But the shadow vanished
+through the closed door, and mingled with the air. Penelope awoke
+with a glad heart, cheered by the prophetic dream.
+
+In the meantime the suitors spoke among themselves, for they were
+too foolish to understand the spirit of the queen. "Surely," they
+said, "Penelope is making ready for her wedding. She does not suspect
+that we have planned to kill her son." "Do not deceive yourselves,
+my friends," said Antino�s. "Be silent and act." Then he chose twenty
+men, and they went down to a well-fitted ship, and took their places
+at the oars. They waited until it was dark, when they quietly rowed
+out into a narrow strait, through which, they thought, Telemachos
+was sure to sail on his return, and there they waited.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXVII
+TELEMACHOS RETURNS TO ITHACA
+
+
+Having encouraged Penelope, the goddess Athena sped to Sparta, where
+she found Telemachos, with Nestor's son, asleep upon the porch. She
+stood beside his bed, and warned him that he ought to return home,
+since Penelope's father had given her counsel to wed the richest of
+the suitors, and had promised a generous dower. "Do not delay," the
+goddess said to him; "no one can tell what a woman will do to help
+the man she is to marry.
+
+"And also beware of the suitors, whom thou hast offended. They lie
+in wait in the narrow passage between Samos and Ithaca. They hope
+to catch thee on thy way home and slay thee. Do not go that way. Sail
+only when it is dark. A god will watch over thee. When thou dost come
+to the first harbor in Ithaca, disembark, and let thy crew go on in
+the ship and take it back to the town. But thou shalt make thy way
+to the hut of thy loyal swineherd, and he will take tidings of thy
+safe return to thy mother."
+
+Athena said this and vanished. Telemachos turned to Peisistratos and
+said: "Let us arise and set forth on our journey with all haste, oh
+son of Nestor." But Peisistratos begged him to wait until it was fairly
+light. Menelaos had slept lightly, he was so agitated with the great
+event of seeing his beloved comrade's son, and he rose as soon as
+it was light. Telemachos heard him approaching, and hastily threw
+on his tunic and cloak and went to meet him.
+
+Telemachos urged a hasty departure and Menelaos did not think it
+proper to try to detain him. He said: "A host is hateful who is too
+affectionate. It is as wrong to keep a guest who is in a hurry to
+go as it is to thrust a stranger out when he wants to stay. Let me
+bring thee costly gifts, and when thou hast had thy morning meal I
+will hasten thee on thy way." The car was heaped with gifts, a golden
+goblet, a silver beaker, a robe that glistened with hand-wrought
+embroidery, the work of Helen, a goblet of silver with golden lips.
+Peisistratos gazed with wonder at their beauty as he placed them in
+the car.
+
+They washed their hands in a silver bowl and ate and drank from the
+bounty which had been placed before them. Then they mounted the car
+which had been brought to the palace gates. Nestor's son took the
+reins, Menelaos poured wine on the ground, an offering to the gods
+for their safety and prosperity, and off they sped over the plain.
+Two birds flew on before them, an eagle that had clutched a goose
+and bore it off in its talons, a sign that Odysseus would come and
+put an end to the suitors, and this omen cheered Telemachos.
+
+All day the horses bounded on shaking their splendid harness. The
+son of Nestor plied the lash. At night they rested in a friendly lodge
+and the second day they reached Pylos. They drove directly to the
+ship, lest Nestor, in his great love for his guest, should detain
+him. With an offering and a prayer to Athena he set sail. A prospering
+breeze swept over the sea and bore them rapidly along. At night
+Telemachos landed at the nearest port and sent the crew on to take
+the ship to the town.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXVIII
+TELEMACHOS AND THE SWINEHERD
+
+
+When daylight appeared Odysseus and Eumaios rose from their beds and
+sent the serving men out into the fields with their swine, but they
+themselves remained at home and prepared breakfast. In a little while
+they heard footsteps outside. The dogs pricked up their ears and
+wagged their tails without barking.
+
+Odysseus, perceiving this, said to the swineherd: "There must be some
+friend of thine coming, since the dogs do not bark." The words had
+hardly passed his lips when Telemachos entered the hut. Eumaios
+started to his feet and hastened to welcome his young master. He took
+him in his arms as a father would a son who had been away a long time,
+and kissed his face and hands.
+
+Tears dropped from his eyes and he said: "My dear Telemachos, I did
+not dare to hope ever to behold thee again. Come in that I may rejoice
+with all my heart at seeing thee once more enter my cabin after thy
+return from a strange country. Seldom dost thou come to see thy
+servants, for thou dost live in town, where thou must watch the suitor
+train consume thy wealth day by day."
+
+To this Telemachos made answer: "This is quite true, my father; but
+I come here to learn of thee how matters are at the palace. Is my
+mother there, or has some wooer won her for a bride?"
+
+"Thy mother is still at home," replied the sturdy swineherd. "She
+has a loyal heart, but she wastes her life in weeping." Saying this
+he took the lance from the young prince, who had come farther into
+the cabin. Odysseus arose to give him his seat, but Telemachos said
+to him: "Keep thy seat, stranger, I will sit elsewhere."
+
+Odysseus sat down again. The swineherd took an armful of twigs and
+covered it with fleeces, and Telemachos seated himself upon it. Next
+he brought bread and meat and set them before his young master, who,
+when he had eaten, asked his faithful servant who the stranger was
+and whence he came.
+
+"The stranger says that he came from Crete," answered Eumaios. "Lately
+he has run away from a ship where he was robbed, and has come here.
+I leave him to thee, however; do with him as thou dost like." "Thy
+words do not please me, Eumaios," said Telemachos. "How can I receive
+a stranger in my house, since I cannot protect him there if any of
+the godless wooers insult him. It would be better for him to stay
+here; and lest he be a burden to you I will send out food and clothes
+for him, and I will help him to go wherever he wishes."
+
+To him the sagacious Odysseus replied: "My friend, I hear with grief
+the story of thy wrongs. Art thou willing to let this go on? If I
+were as young as thou art I would lose my life before I would suffer
+such things--thy guests insulted, thy servants beaten, thy riches
+thrown away, thy food consumed by gluttons."
+
+"Thy words are sharp, dear stranger, and I shall answer them with
+the truth," said Telemachos. "Thou dost not yet understand that there
+is a great crowd of suitors; not simply five or ten. What can I do
+single-handed against such a multitude? But you, Eumaios, hasten to
+the city, secretly, and tell my mother that I have returned and am
+staying here. Then come back at once and let no one know where I am,
+for the lovers are plotting a bloody death for me." The swineherd
+hastily bound his sandals on to his feet, took his staff, and hurried
+off.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXIX
+TELEMACHOS RECOGNIZES ODYSSEUS
+
+
+It was not long after Eumaios had left the cabin when Athena, in the
+guise of a beautiful woman, appeared to Odysseus and beckoned him
+to come outside. Telemachos was opposite to her, but he did not see
+her, for the gods are not visible to all. Only Odysseus and the dogs
+were conscious of her presence. The dogs did not bark but ran into
+a corner of the cabin, crouching and whining. Odysseus left the room
+and stood before the goddess, who spoke to him in these words: "Son
+of Laertes, of noble birth and great wisdom, make thyself known to
+thy son. Tell him all the truth. Advise with him how to put an end
+to that insolent crowd of suitors. I shall never be far from thee
+myself and will help thee. I long to see them attacked."
+
+When she had finished speaking she touched Odysseus with her golden
+wand. That touch changed him instantly into a handsome, well-made
+man in the full vigor of robust manhood. His rags became seemly
+garments. His cheeks flushed with renewed health and the heavy beard
+on his chin grew dark again. After the goddess had done this she
+vanished and Odysseus went back into the lodge. His son glanced at
+him in amazement and then turned his eyes away from him lest he should
+irreverently look upon a god.
+
+"Stranger," he said, "I think thou art an immortal whose home is in
+the heavens, for thou hast been transformed in looks and garb. Let
+me bring a sacrifice and offer it to thee, together with beautiful
+gifts, and perhaps thou wilt be gracious to us and keep us from harm."
+
+Odysseus replied: "Nay, I am not a god, nor like the gods. I am thy
+father, he for whom thou hast mourned and endured so many sufferings."
+Saying this he kissed his son and wept.
+
+"I pray thee do not deceive me," said Telemachos. "Thou surely art
+a deity and not my father. No mortal could change from a ragged old
+beggar to a young and stately man in a moment."
+
+Odysseus answered him: "Telemachos, it is not like a son to gaze upon
+thy father with astonishment. No other Odysseus will ever come into
+this cabin. I am thy father. I have wandered twenty years in foreign
+lands, and now have come to my own home. Thou hast seen a miracle
+which Athena wrought, for she makes me look like a beggar or a king
+as she pleases. The gods have all power to put men in high places
+or to humble them."
+
+Odysseus sat down and his dear son approached him and threw his arms
+around him in a loving embrace, and together they wept tears of joy.
+At last Telemachos inquired: "Dear father, in what ship hast thou
+come, and what sailors brought thee hither? Thou couldst not have
+come on foot."
+
+"The Ph�acians brought me across the sea and left me sleeping on the
+shore in Ithaca," replied Odysseus. "And they gave me rich presents
+of gold, and silver, and brass, and embroidered garments hand-woven
+from their own looms.
+
+"These have I hidden, and Athena has sent me to advise with thee how
+best to destroy the arrogant crew of suitors that so long has robbed
+my house and vexed my wife. Tell me now how many there are and what
+kind of men, so that I can judge whether we two alone may attack them,
+or whether we need the help of others."
+
+"My father," answered Telemachos, "thy sweet fame has resounded
+through our halls, my whole life long. How often have I heard of thy
+courage and the strength of thy powerful arm. But how is it possible
+for us two to fight against such a multitude? Fifty-two of the wooers
+come from one town with six servants. Twenty-four come from Samos,
+and twenty more from Zakynthos, and twelve from Ithaca. If we attack
+them all I fear that we shall come to grief. It is better for us to
+look around and find an ally."
+
+Again Odysseus made reply: "Dear son, take courage. Zeus and Athena,
+most powerful of the gods, are on our side. Early to-morrow thou must
+go to the city and mingle with the suitors. The swineherd shall lead
+me disguised as an old beggar to my palace. Keep down thy wrath if
+the wooers speak insultingly to me. Do not resent it except to
+administer a gentle reproof, though they strike me with their spears
+and abuse me with bad language. The day of their death is at hand.
+When Athena gives me the sign, I will nod to thee and thou shalt remove
+my weapons from the great hall to an upper room. Tell the suspicious
+suitors that the arms gather too much dust where they now hang on
+the walls, and besides that, a god has warned thee that in their
+drunken brawls, the wooers may harm each other. Let no one know of
+my arrival, not even Laertes, Eumaios, or my wife, Penelope."
+
+All day the illustrious father and his son conversed and laid their
+plans. At noon they killed a yearling pig, and roasted it and made
+a hearty lunch. Once more Athena touched Odysseus with her wand and
+changed him into a poor old beggar, that Eumaios should not recognize
+him. At evening the swineherd returned. On entering his cabin he told
+his young master that the suitors had learned of his safe return to
+Ithaca. Then he prepared a supper for them, and they ate and drank
+to their hearts' content, when they retired to rest.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XL
+TELEMACHOS RETURNS TO THE PALACE
+
+
+Early the next morning Telemachos rose, tied his shining sandals under
+his feet, took his spear and stood ready to go to the city. He called
+the swineherd to him, and said: "Eumaios, I am going back to the town
+to see my mother. I know that she will not cease to be anxious about
+me until she sees me in my own home. Take this stranger there, too,
+where he may beg, and thus supply his wants. I cannot receive every
+poor man into my own house; my trials are too great. It makes no
+difference to me whether he likes it or not. I am forced to tell the
+truth about it."
+
+"My friend," said Odysseus, "I do not care to stay any longer. I think
+myself it is better for me to go to the city, where a beggar may have
+a fair chance. I am too old to be of service here. Go thy way, my
+son, and let thy servant lead me hence, as thou hast commanded. But
+let me first warm me at the fire, for I am cold and the way is long."
+
+Then Telemachos went out of the lodge and sped toward the city. His
+old nurse, Eurycleia, was the first to see him, and she ran out to
+welcome him, and the other servants came around rejoicing. Next came
+Penelope, as beautiful as Artemis, and threw her arms about her son,
+and kissed him on his brow and eyes. "Hast thou indeed returned,
+Telemachos, my son? I never hoped to see thee again. Tell me about
+thy father. Hast thou any news of him? What has happened? What hast
+thou seen?" So did the queen greet her son.
+
+"Dear mother, do not waken my grief again," Telemachos replied. "I
+have barely escaped a cruel death. But go to thy bath and put fresh
+garments on, and then pray to the gods and promise them great
+sacrifices if Zeus will avenge our wrongs." Penelope willingly did
+her son's bidding, but Telemachos betook himself to the market place
+to show himself to the people.
+
+When Telemachos came into the public square the suitors thronged
+around him with smooth speeches, but in their hearts they kept on
+plotting his death. He wanted them to see that he was in Ithaca, but
+he did not care to be in their company, so he took his place among
+some friends of his father. One of the crew came up to ask where he
+might deposit the splendid gifts of Menelaos, and Telemachos told
+him to hide them until the suitors had been defeated or had won the
+victory.
+
+Then Telemachos came back to the palace in company with a stranger
+who had joined his crew at Pylos, and they sat down near the queen,
+who was spinning. The servants brought them wine and food, and after
+they had eaten, Penelope begged that her son would recite to her the
+story of his journey. In the meantime Odysseus and Eumaios had started
+for the city. When they reached the spring where the citizens of the
+city went for water, they encountered Melanthios, a goatherd, driving
+goats into town. Two servants followed, helping him. As soon as he
+saw Eumaios and his guest, he said: "Look! There is one knave leading
+another. Verily, the gods bring like and like together. Thou miserable
+swineherd, whither dost thou take that worthless beggar, this
+vagabond who rubs his shoulders on every door-post, asking for crusts,
+eating gluttonously, and telling tales of woe?
+
+"Just hand him over to me to guard my stables and clean my yard, and
+I will give him whey to drink, which will fatten his limbs. But work
+does not suit such a fellow. He would rather ramble idly about and
+beg for food to fill his empty stomach. Let him once come to the palace
+of Odysseus and the guests that woo the queen will fling footstools
+at him." With that Melanthios kicked him in the thigh. Odysseus
+hesitated a moment and considered whether it were better to slay the
+goatherd with a blow from his staff, or whether he should submit to
+the indignity in silence. The latter seemed the better course.
+
+But Eumaios grew angry and said: "Melanthios, wait till Odysseus
+returns. He will give thee thy deserts, thou villain! All day long
+dost thou loaf in the city, leaving thy master's flocks to take care
+of themselves." Melanthios answered him: "Just hear what this cur
+has to say! I shall take him off and sell him for a slave some day.
+Would that Telemachos might die this moment under the hands of the
+suitors, and go down to Hades to join his father!" With these words
+he hurried off to the house of his master where he sat down among
+the crowd of wooers.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XLI
+ODYSSEUS IS RECOGNIZED BY HIS DOG
+
+
+After awhile Odysseus and Eumaios came to the house. As they drew
+near they waited a little to listen to the music, for a minstrel had
+begun a song, and while singing he played the lyre. "Surely, Eumaios,"
+said Odysseus, "anyone would know that this is the palace of a king.
+See how stately the structure is, and how spacious the court beyond
+the massive gates! And there are walls and towers and countless rooms.
+No one but Odysseus could have built such a fortress. I hear the sound
+of the lute and perceive the tempting odor of roasting meat, and there
+are crowds of guests coming and going. There must be a banquet within."
+
+Eumaios replied: "True, my friend, this is the house of Odysseus.
+Now, let us consider what we are to do. Shall I take the lead and
+go in first, or wilt thou go first and let me follow?" Odysseus, the
+sagacious, made answer: "Go in before me, and I will follow by and
+by."
+
+They were standing near the stable doors while talking. The filth
+from the stalls of the mules and oxen had been piled there by slovenly
+servants, who should have removed it day by day to fertilize the fields.
+There, on the unwholesome heap, a poor, neglected dog was lying,
+devoured by noxious insects and vermin. It was Argus, whom Odysseus
+himself had raised before he went to Troy. In times gone by, the young
+men of Ithaca had made him most useful in the chase. He had scented
+the stag, the hare, and the wild goat for them many a time. But now
+that he was old no one cared for him, and he was left to die.
+
+As soon as he saw Odysseus drawing near he pricked up his ears and
+wagged his tail. But he had not strength enough to get up and come
+to his master, although he moved as if he would gladly have done so.
+Odysseus saw this and burst into tears, but he turned his face away
+in hopes that Eumaios would not notice it.
+
+But the good swineherd saw it and so Odysseus questioned him: "Eumaios,
+what dog is this that lies upon this filth? He is well built, and
+surely is of a fine stock. Is he fleet in the chase or a mere house-dog
+kept for show?"
+
+"This dog, stranger," answered Eumaios, "belongs to my dear master.
+If thou hadst only seen him before Odysseus went to Troy thou wouldst
+have been astonished at his swiftness. He performed wonders in the
+chase. No wild animal was able to escape him. But his master has died
+far from home, and the careless servants will not even throw him a
+bone."
+
+The swineherd passed on into the hall where the suitors sat, but
+Odysseus stood looking at the faithful beast, the only creature that
+had recognized him. The joy of seeing his old master was too great,
+and Argus sank down and died.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XLII
+ODYSSEUS COMES, A BEGGAR, TO HIS OWN HOUSE
+
+
+Telemachos was the first to notice the swineherd entering the hall,
+and he made a sign for him to come and sit by him. Presently Odysseus,
+too, entered in the guise of a forlorn old beggar, and sat down near
+the door. Telemachos handed Eumaios a whole loaf of bread and as much
+meat as he could hold in his two hands, and bade him take it to the
+beggar. And he told him to tell the poor old man to ask a pittance
+from every suitor present.
+
+Odysseus took the food, and after thanking Telemachos, prayed to the
+gods to give him everything good. Then he placed his food in a wallet
+on the ground, and began to eat, while a minstrel entertained the
+assembly with sweet music. When the bard ceased his singing, the
+suitors began a noisy conversation, and having a signal from Athena,
+Odysseus arose and went from one wooer to another asking alms. Each
+one gave him something, and asked him who he was and whence he came.
+
+Melanthios, the goatherd, and the favorite of Eurymachos, wishing
+to make mischief, told them that Eumaios had brought the old man along
+but did not, himself, know who he was. Antino�s hearing this, said:
+"Eumaios, foolish swineherd, why didst thou bring that vile beggar
+here? Are there not beggars enough to eat up the wealth of thy master
+without him?"
+
+Eumaios answered him most courteously: "Antino�s, though thou art
+high born thou art not well bred. Thou hast always spoken
+contemptuously to all the servants of Odysseus, but chiefly to me.
+Beggars come as they like. No one expects to invite them. Only people
+of rank are invited to a feast. But I heed not thy abuse so long as
+I can serve the wise Penelope and her powerful son."
+
+Then Telemachos, seeing that a quarrel was brewing, interposed: "Hold
+thy peace, Eumaios, make no words with Antino�s. He takes delight
+in ugly words. Nothing pleases him more than to stir up ill-feeling.
+Surely Antino�s, thou art a father to me when thou dost bid me turn
+a stranger into the street and insult him. Pray let the old beggar
+approach thee and receive a pittance, for thou shouldst not feast
+on the food belonging to others and never bestow any gifts. All the
+suitors except thyself have given him a dole."
+
+Antino�s made response: "Telemachos, thou boaster, if each suitor
+would bestow upon him such a gift as I will make, he would not come
+here again very soon." With that he seized a footstool and held it
+up where all could see it. The beggar approached him with a pitiful
+story of wanderings and hardships. Antino�s spurned him saying: "What
+demon hath brought this chattering beggar to spoil our pleasure? Get
+thee gone, or thou wilt soon be much the worse for coming. Thou art
+a bold and impudent old beggar."
+
+Odysseus withdrew, saying as he went: "How strange it is that so fine
+a form can conceal so foul a mind. Thou wouldst not give even salt
+to a suppliant, nor a crust of bread from thine own table, without
+begrudging it. But thou dost feed gluttonously at the table of an
+absent chief." Antino�s grew more angry, and rejoined: "Thou insolent
+beggar, thou shalt not leave this hall unpunished." With that he
+raised the footstool and struck Odysseus on the shoulder. The chief
+stood like a rock, not in the least disturbed. But he made menacing
+motions with his head and retired to the door, where he put down his
+wallet and lifted up his voice to call down vengeance from the gods.
+
+Antino�s spoke again with insulting words, and one of the guests
+rebuked him. He was so angry, however, that he did not heed it.
+Telemachos saw the blow, and could hardly restrain his anger. Word
+was carried to Penelope that a penniless stranger had been insulted
+and struck in her halls, and she said to her maids: "I would that
+Apollo with his bow might strike Antino�s down."
+
+Then she called the swineherd to her apartment and said: "Bring the
+beggar hither. I should like to speak with him. It may be that he
+has seen Odysseus, for he seems to have wandered far."
+
+The swineherd took the queen's message to the stranger, but he begged
+that he might not comply with the request until the suitors had left
+the house. "I knew Odysseus well," he said, "but I dread these violent
+men. Therefore, ask Penelope to let me wait until sunset when I can
+sit by the fire and warm myself, and tell her all that she shall
+inquire."
+
+The queen thought the beggar's answer was a prudent one, and was
+satisfied. At sundown the swineherd left the palace to return to his
+hut. The suitors kept up the revel until late in the evening, and
+then went home leaving Odysseus in his own palace.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XLIII
+CONVERSATION OF ODYSSEUS AND PENELOPE
+
+
+After the revellers had left the palace, Odysseus said to his son:
+"Now is the time to hide all these weapons where the suitors cannot
+find them, when their hour of need shall come. If they ask for them
+tell them that the arms were losing their polish in these smoky rooms,
+and also that the gods had warned thee to remove them since some
+dispute might arise in which the wooers heated with wine and anger
+would attack each other."
+
+Telemachos at once obeyed. He called his old nurse to see that the
+servants were in their own apartments and the doors of the palace
+made fast while he removed the arms to an upper room. Then he retired
+to rest, leaving Odysseus sitting by the hearth in the large
+dining-hall awaiting the arrival of Penelope. She was not long in
+coming. Her maids placed a chair, inlaid with silver and ivory, for
+her near the fire, and threw a large woolly rug before it for her
+feet.
+
+The queen, stately as a goddess, took her seat there while her maids
+carried away the dishes and food left by the suitors. They heaped
+great logs on the fire. Then Melantho, an impudent maid, said to
+Odysseus: "Art thou here, thou beggar! Begone, or I will take a
+firebrand and drive thee out!" Odysseus rejoined: "Such is the fate
+of beggars. They must wander far and take abuse. It is true that I
+am ragged, but I am not unclean. Once I was rich and had my own palace.
+I often gave to beggars and I had many servants. But it pleased the
+gods to make me poor. Thou pert woman, surely the queen, Penelope,
+never taught thee, and thy bad conduct will not escape the eye of
+Telemachos."
+
+Penelope saw and heard all this and the high-breeding of the beggar
+did not escape her keen notice. She turned to the saucy maid and said:
+"Shame on thee, thou bold creature. Thou dost know full well that
+this stranger has remained here at my own request, that I might inquire
+if he knows aught of my husband."
+
+Then the queen asked her matron to spread a rug for the poor old man.
+Odysseus sat down and Penelope began to question him. "Who art thou,
+stranger?" she asked. "Where is thy home? Whence hast thou come?"
+Odysseus answered her: "My gracious queen, I am the son of a king
+and I come from Crete. I am a man of sorrows and have wandered far.
+But do not ask me of these things, for I do not wish to lament over
+unhappy days.
+
+"Strong ties of friendship bind me to Odysseus. Twenty years ago,
+when he went to Troy, I received him as a guest in my house, because
+contrary winds and a stormy sea had thrown him upon my island. I led
+him to my palace and gave him the best of food and wine. Twelve days
+he remained with me, both himself and his companions. On the
+thirteenth a favorable wind arose and they went on to Troy."
+
+Odysseus kept on inventing one tale after another, such as might seem
+probable, and the tears rolled down Penelope's cheeks. Odysseus could
+have wept, too, when he saw how deep her loyalty and affection were
+rooted. The lady had no doubt of the genuine character of her guest,
+but she cautiously strove to prove the truth of his words, so she
+questioned him yet farther, asking him to describe Odysseus and his
+comrades--how he looked and what dress he wore.
+
+Odysseus responded truthfully: "He wore a cloak of purple wool, with
+two clasps of gold, hand-wrought. The pattern showed a hound
+struggling with a spotted fawn, intent to kill it. Besides this he
+had on a delicate tunic of shining cloth, spun, doubtless, by his
+queen, for the women gazed at it in wonder.
+
+"He was accompanied by a herald named Eurybates, a hunchback with
+a dark complexion, but Odysseus seemed to value him above all the
+rest, for he was a clever and a faithful man."
+
+When Odysseus had finished speaking, Penelope exclaimed, with a burst
+of passionate grief: "Stranger, I was moved to pity when I first saw
+thee in my halls, but thou shalt be held as an honored guest from
+this time forward. Thou hast spoken truly of the garments, for I shaped
+the folds in them myself and put on the clasps. Alas! I shall never
+see him again. It was a cruel fate that took him from me."
+
+Odysseus was deeply moved, and tried to speak consoling words. "Weep
+not," he said, "for grief will wear away thy beauty and thy health.
+Odysseus lives and will return. I met him lately on his homeward way,
+laden with wealth which he had gathered in the country of the
+Thesprotians.
+
+"He will come alone, for his comrades were destroyed off the island
+of Trinacria, for they had slain the oxen of the Sun. He would have
+arrived here before me, only that he stopped to consult an oracle
+whether to come secretly or not. He is safe and will not long remain
+away from thee. Here I take the great oath that Odysseus will come
+within a month."
+
+The wise queen answered him: "I would that thy words might prove true,
+O stranger, but the thought is deep in my heart that Odysseus is no
+more. My maidens, lead this guest to the bath and spread a couch for
+him where he can rest quietly, and to-morrow he shall share the morning
+meal with Telemachos."
+
+Then said Odysseus to her: "Fair queen, I care not for fine covers
+and soft beds. Wilt thou permit me to lie down on the floor near the
+fire, as I am used to do? I care not for the bath, either, unless
+there is some old servant who knows how to give a foot-bath to aged
+feet."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XLIV
+EURYCLEIA RECOGNIZES ODYSSEUS
+
+
+Penelope admired the prudence of the poor old beggar, and called
+Eurycleia, bidding her to bathe the stranger's feet as carefully as
+if they were the feet of her master. The nurse filled a bright brass
+basin with warm water and knelt down to execute the command of her
+royal mistress, saying: "My poor Odysseus! My heart is sore for him.
+Who knows but he may be wandering like thee, weary and footsore!
+Perhaps he is an object of ridicule among serving-women who will not
+suffer him to come near the bath.
+
+"Stranger, I will wash thy feet for the sake of my absent master,
+and to please that gracious queen who has commanded me to do so; but
+most of all because thou art in need of it through suffering. Surely
+I never saw anyone who bore so close a resemblance to my lord as thou."
+
+Odysseus replied: "It has often been said that I look like Odysseus
+by those who knew us both, O aged dame." Then he turned his feet away
+from the light, for fear that Eurycleia would recognize a scar and
+discover who he was. But it was in vain, for as soon as she passed
+her hand over it she knew it. It was a scar that came where a wild
+boar had once torn the flesh when Odysseus was hunting on Parnassos.
+
+The old servant was so overcome with joy that she laughed and cried
+at the same time. She let his foot fall against the basin, which was
+upset with a loud clang, while the water was spilled over the floor.
+She laid her hand on Odysseus' beard, and said in a voice trembling
+with emotion: "Dear son, thou art Odysseus. I knew thee the moment
+that I touched the scar."
+
+Then Eurycleia turned to tell Penelope that her lord had come, for
+the queen had not seen the upsetting of the basin. But Odysseus laid
+his finger on the old servant's lips, and with his left hand drew
+her closer and said: "Be silent. Let no one know that I have come,
+for I must slay the suitors by stratagem. If they know that I am here
+they will prevent me and destroy us all."
+
+The loyal handmaid arose to bring another basin of water. She bathed
+his feet and anointed them. And he moved to the fire and took his
+seat, while he pulled his ragged garments over the scar to hide it,
+lest it might betray him.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XLV
+PENELOPE'S DREAM
+
+
+When Odysseus was again seated by the hearth, Penelope began to speak
+to him further: "Stranger, one more question I must ask thee, and
+then I will leave thee, for the hour of sleep is near. All day long
+I keep at my tasks to try to forget my grief, for the gods have visited
+me with sore misfortunes. I teach my maids to spin and weave and care
+for the palace. But when night comes strange dreams flit through my
+mind, and new sorrows spring up in my heart.
+
+"There are from day to day assembled in my home all the young men
+of the best families of Ithaca and the neighboring isles, who insist
+that I shall choose one of them for a husband. But as I am not willing
+to comply, they remain in my house and destroy my property. I am not
+able to drive them out, and do not know how to help myself. Listen
+to a dream I had the other night. Perhaps thou canst explain it to
+me.
+
+"I dreamt that there was a flock of twenty geese in my court-yard,
+and they picked corn out of the water and ate greedily. Suddenly an
+eagle swooped down upon them from above and broke their necks and
+tore them to pieces. Then he flew off, leaving them scattered about
+the yard. I bitterly bewailed the loss of my geese, and so did my
+maids. After awhile the eagle came back and, perching on the roof,
+said to me: 'Take courage, Penelope, this is no dream. The geese are
+the wooers, but I, the eagle, am thy husband, and I have come to kill
+those impudent robbers that vex thee.'"
+
+Odysseus answered her: "The eagle gave the right explanation, O lady.
+The dream could not have had any other meaning. Odysseus will come
+and slay the wooers, and not one shall escape him."
+
+"Dreams do not always come to pass," rejoined Penelope, "but I
+heartily wish that this might be fulfilled. Be patient a little longer,
+for I have one thing more to say. To-morrow is a decisive day, for
+it may be the one that drives me from the palace. I shall propose
+a contest for my hand. Twenty years ago Odysseus set up twelve axes,
+one behind the other, in the court. Through the rings of the handles
+he shot an arrow, although he stood at a great distance. I will
+challenge the suitors to take the same bow and send the arrow through
+the rings as Odysseus did. He who succeeds shall lead me forth a bride,
+to his own palace."
+
+Odysseus responded: "Do not let the contest be put off. Odysseus will
+be at hand a long time before any of the suitors can bend his bow."
+
+"Thy words, O stranger, are comforting," said Penelope. "I could sit
+and listen to thee all night. But as thou art in need of rest, I will
+retire to my apartment, and the maids shall spread rugs before the
+fire for thee." Penelope, having said this, went up to her room, her
+maids following her, and she wept, thinking of her royal lord, until
+Athena closed her eyes in sleep.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XLVI
+ATHENA ENCOURAGES ODYSSEUS
+
+
+Odysseus was lying on his bed, but he could not sleep, for he was
+thinking how he might destroy the suitors. Suddenly Athena appeared
+to him, and said: "Odysseus, why dost thou lie awake? Thou art in
+thine own house and near thy wife and child." "All this is true, O
+goddess," answered Odysseus. "But I am only one and the suitors are
+many. How shall I, single-handed, meet this multitude of men?"
+
+"Sleep in peace, Odysseus," returned Athena. "To lie awake saps the
+life and strength of men. The time has come when all thy sufferings
+shall end. The gods protect thee and they are stronger than armed
+warriors." Thus spoke the goddess, and, closing his eyelids with sweet
+slumber, she flew up to Olympos.
+
+While Odysseus was sleeping, his wife had waked, and, sitting on her
+bed, addressed a prayer to Artemis: "Rather let me die, O goddess,
+than become the wife of any other man than Odysseus. The very thought
+vexes me day and night. Just now I had a dream. I seemed to see Odysseus
+just as he was when he started out for Troy. I was so glad that I
+could not believe that it was not a reality."
+
+She prayed aloud, and soon daylight appeared. Odysseus heard the voice
+and it filled his heart with anxiety. He arose and hastily placed
+the rugs on which he had slept on a bench in the palace. Then he went
+out into the open air. Telemachos had risen also, and he went forth
+to the market-place. Eurycleia called the servants together and
+ordered them to be quick about their work, for a festival was to be
+celebrated that day and the wooers would come early.
+
+There was a busy time. The menials obeyed, some bringing water, some
+sweeping the floors, others polishing the benches and covering them
+with royal tapestries. The servants of the suitors came also and cut
+wood for the fires. Eumaios arrived early, driving three fat hogs.
+He saluted Odysseus and asked him if he were well treated by the
+suitors, or if they continued to scoff at him. Odysseus answered him:
+"May the gods punish the ruthless men who perpetrate such wrongs in
+a stranger's home." While they were talking together the goatherd
+joined him, and repeated the sneers and abuse of the preceding day.
+Odysseus took no notice of it, except to shake his head as one who
+plans direful things.
+
+The master herdsman now came along with a fat heifer and choice goats
+for the day's banquet. Offering his hand to Odysseus, he exclaimed:
+"Hail to thee, stranger! A long and happy life be thine! Methinks
+my master must be clothed in rags and wandering like thee. Thou dost
+bring his image to my mind. I hope he may return and drive these suitors
+out of his palace." "Be sure that he will come, herdsman; thou wilt
+see him with thine own eyes, when he slays the ruthless suitors, and
+then thou wilt know who is lord of the palace," replied Odysseus.
+
+The suitors were talking apart from the rest and conspiring to take
+the life of Telemachos, when an eagle wheeled over their heads,
+tearing a timid dove. With hearts foreboding ill at this omen, they
+went into the hall to begin the banquet, while the herdsman went his
+way first saying, "When Odysseus comes, call on me, and I will show
+how strong my arm is to deal a blow at his enemies."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XLVII
+THE LAST BANQUET OF THE SUITORS
+
+
+The suitors had now arrived in the great banquet-hall and taken their
+places at the tables. The servants brought bread and meat and placed
+it before them, while Melanthios filled their goblets with wine.
+Telemachos placed Odysseus near the door, and gave him an ample supply
+of food, saying: "Eat and drink, stranger, without fear. None of the
+wooers shall assail thee, for I will stand guard."
+
+One of the suitors, an evil-minded man with a rich father, said to
+his companions: "My friends, this stranger enjoys his meal greatly.
+It does not become any one of us to begrudge good things to the guests
+of Telemachos. I, too, wish to give him a present, which he in turn
+may bestow on some other beggar." With that he seized an ox's foot
+and hurled it at Odysseus.
+
+Odysseus dodged it by holding down his head. Telemachos grew angry
+and rebuked the suitor in these words: "Ktesippos, thou hast escaped
+death. It is well that this stranger avoided thy blow, for if thou
+hadst struck him, my sharp spear would have pinned thee to the wall,
+and thy father would have prepared a burial instead of a wedding for
+thee."
+
+Dreadful forebodings of woe began to fill the hearts of the suitors.
+Their speech became rambling and they laughed insanely. They ate and
+drank like men deranged.
+
+Penelope now entered the great hall and took her seat upon a
+magnificent throne, right in front of the suitors. She heard the
+maudlin laughter and saw the gluttonous feasting as the revel ran
+high. Then Athena came and moved her mind to immediate action, and
+she went up to the farthest chamber with her maids, where the arms
+of Odysseus were stored. His bow and deadly arrows, so long unused,
+were there, with rich treasures and perfumed garments. She wept as
+she took the bow from its case and went out, followed by the servants,
+who carried down costly prizes, such as Odysseus gave when festivals
+with games were held in his halls.
+
+She took her place, standing before the suitors, and addressed them:
+"Ye noble suitors, listen to my words. Cease to eat and drink and
+come to the contest. Too long have ye lived at my table, giving as
+an excuse that ye would win me as a bride. The suitor who can bend
+this bow and send this arrow through these twelve axes shall claim
+me as his wife, and I will follow him to his home."
+
+Penelope called to the swineherd and the herdsmen to place the rings
+and carry the bow to the suitors. Each in turn tried to do so, but
+were overcome with grief at seeing their master's weapons, and laid
+them down.
+
+Antino�s lifted up his voice and chid them: "Ye foolish peasants,
+must your eyes flow with tears at this feast? Bring the bow or leave
+the palace. Methinks we shall have hard work to bend this bow, for
+none of us have such sinews as had Odysseus."
+
+Then Telemachos took up the bow and laughed. "I must have lost my
+wits," he said, "for I am glad that this contest will take place.
+There is not such another woman in Greece as my stately mother. Make
+no delay then. I long to see the man who can bend the bow. I would
+that I might bend it myself and win the right to keep her in her own
+home. Then I should be spared the grief of losing her."
+
+Telemachos took off his cloak and laid his sword aside. He placed
+the axes in a row and took the bow and made three attempts to bend
+it, but did not succeed. He would have accomplished the feat if he
+had made one more effort, but Odysseus made a sign to him to desist,
+so he set the bow against the wall and went back to his seat.
+
+The first suitor to make the trial had never been pleased with the
+insolence of the wooers, and had great foresight and was called their
+seer. His hands were soft and delicate. He could not bend the bow,
+but he predicted that it would be the instrument to bring death to
+the whole crew.
+
+Antino�s reproached him for his prophecies, and ordered Melanthios
+to light a fire and bring a slice of fat, that the bow might be warmed
+and oiled to make it pliable. They warmed it and rubbed it with oil,
+and tried to bend it. One after another, each in turn, they made trials,
+but all in vain.
+
+In the meantime Odysseus went to the swineherd and the master of the
+herds, who had displayed such loyalty. He said to them: "My friends,
+what if Odysseus should come; would you take part with him, or join
+the crowd of suitors? Speak truly." The two men answered, appealing
+to the gods to bear witness, that they would stand by their master
+to the end.
+
+"Behold," said Odysseus, "I am the master that you love. I have come
+to my own land after twenty years of suffering, and among all my
+servants I hear none pray for my return save you two. And now that
+you may surely recognize me I will show you the scar made by a boar
+on Parnassos." He raised his ragged tunic for a moment and they looked
+at the scar. They recognized their long-lost master, and threw their
+arms around him and wept, and kissed his hands and feet.
+
+Odysseus begged them to desist, lest the suitors should notice it
+and discover him. And he instructed them to bring the bow to him and
+place it in his hands, after all the wooers had failed to bend it.
+And he told them to shut and lock the doors, so that the maid-servants
+could not hear the groans of the dying men, for they might run out
+and warn the town.
+
+Eurymachos and Antino�s were the last to make trial of the bow.
+Eurymachos sat before the fire and warmed it on both sides, but he
+could not bend it. He was vexed beyond measure, and said: "It is not
+that I care for Penelope, for there are other women that would suit
+me just as well, but if we are weaker than Odysseus our sons will
+hear of it in future times and be ashamed of us."
+
+Antino�s took up the word: "Eurymachos," he said, "this is a day held
+sacred to Apollo, god of the silver bow. He should have no rival.
+Let the bow alone, lest the god be angry and leave the axes standing
+in a row. No one will dare to touch them. Let Melanthios bring goats,
+and we will offer up sacrifices to the god and invite his aid. Then
+we shall have strength to win in this struggle."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XLVIII
+ODYSSEUS BENDS THE BOW
+
+
+The suitors approved the words of Antino�s. The heralds filled their
+cups with wine, and the wise Odysseus waited until they had drunk
+to their hearts' content.
+
+Then he lifted up his voice and said: "Hear me, ye suitors of Penelope,
+while I advise that you defer this trial of your strength until another
+day. Apollo will then bestow the power on one of you to triumph over
+the others. Let me practise with the bow to-day, to see if I have
+any of my youthful strength, or if I have lost it through suffering
+and want."
+
+The suitors were moved with desperate fear and anger. "Thou senseless
+beggar," said Antino�s, "is it not enough that we allow thee to sit
+at a banquet with the proudest men alive? Thou art drunk and thy mind
+wanders. What would come to thee if thou shouldst bend this bow? Verily
+we would sell thee for a slave to the great enemy of men."
+
+Then said Penelope: "Indeed, Antino�s, it is not large-minded to deny
+this poor old man the pleasure of trying the bow.
+
+"Dost thou think I would go forth as the wife of a beggar? Nay, the
+stranger has no hope of that. Do not let your minds be teased with
+such thoughts."
+
+Eurymachos, the leading suitor, rejoined: "Our care is not that thou
+wilt wed this man. But we fear the ridicule of the people, who will
+say, 'These are great men, indeed, who are outdone in strength and
+skill by a miserable old beggar.' It would be a never-ending shame
+to us."
+
+"Nay, Eurymachos," replied Penelope, "real shame comes on him who
+robs a good man and brings trouble to his family. This beggar claims
+to be of good blood, and his arm is sinewy. Let him try the bow. I
+make a solemn promise that if Apollo grant him the honor of bending
+the bow, I shall do no less than bestow upon him a tunic and a cloak,
+and sandals, and I will give him a sword with which he can defend
+himself. Then he can go where he likes."
+
+Telemachos saw that the great crisis was at hand. "Mother," he said,
+"it rests with me to give the bow or withhold it. Such matters belong
+to men, and in this palace the authority is mine. Take thy maids,
+then, and retire to thy apartments, and ply the tasks most suitable
+to women."
+
+The queen recognized her son's wisdom, and withdrew with her maids
+to the upper rooms. There she wept for the beloved monarch, her absent
+lord, until Athena sent a soothing sleep to comfort her.
+
+In the meanwhile the swineherd took up the bow and undertook to carry
+it to Odysseus. The suitors shouted their disapproval, and he became
+confused and set it down. Telemachos called out above the clamor and
+gave command for him to carry it along. The suitors laughed to hear
+the young man's voice ring out like a trumpet and drown all other
+noises. Odysseus took the bow and turned it from side to side,
+examining it in every part. Telemachos, in a low tone, bade Eurycleia
+make fast all the doors, and the master herdsman tied the gates of
+the outer court with a ship's cable.
+
+The suitors grew uneasy, and one of them said to another: "See the
+beggar, how he turns the bow this way and that! He would have us think
+that he is an expert in the use of bows." Odysseus stretched the cord
+and made it fast from end to end. He put it to his ear to try its
+tenseness as a minstrel tunes his harp. It sang like a bird. With
+perfect ease he drew the cord and let the arrow fly. It screamed like
+a swallow and went through every ring from the first one to the last.
+The suitors turned pale. Zeus sent a loud thunder-clap and Odysseus
+rejoiced at the omen. He sprang to the threshold with his bow in hand
+and a quiver full of arrows at his side, and shouted: "The contest
+is ended. Now I will choose another target."
+
+Antino�s had just put a golden goblet to his lips, and was about to
+drink the delicious wine. An arrow pierced his throat. He dropped
+the cup and fell to the ground, and as he fell his feet struck the
+table. The bread and meat were scattered in every direction over the
+floor. The suitors sprang to their feet and looked for the weapons
+on the walls. The spears were gone, and the lances and all the armor.
+
+Even yet they were blind to the fact that the stranger had slain
+Antino�s purposely. They poured out threats. "Fool," they said, "what
+art thou doing? How couldst thou be so careless! Thou hast slain the
+noblest man in Ithaca. Dogs and vultures shall devour thee. Never
+again shalt thou be allowed a trial with the bow."
+
+"Dogs," cried Odysseus, "ye little thought your chief would ever
+return from Troy, and therefore ye have robbed me of my wealth and
+vexed my wife with offers of marriage, regardless of the laws of god
+and man. But now the hour of your death has come and your doom is
+certain."
+
+The suitors trembled and looked for some open door through which to
+fly for safety. Only Eurymachos took courage to make a defence. "If
+thou art indeed Odysseus, thou hast good cause to complain of wrongs,"
+he said. "But thou hast slain the leader, Antino�s, who prompted us
+to do these wrongs. He had no thought of love for thy wife. He wanted
+to gain thy land and rule over thy people. Spare the rest of us and
+we will make ample restitution."
+
+A dreadful frown spread over Odysseus' face, and he replied:
+"Eurymachos, I will not take thy wealth nor will I spare thy life.
+Now choose between the two, either to fight or fly from death. Be
+sure no suitor shall escape my vengeance."
+
+The suitors all grew faint with fear. Eurymachos cried out to them:
+"Ye Ithacans, this man will stand there at the door and shoot us all
+down one by one. Out with your swords! Hold up the tables for shields,
+and rush upon him, all of you, at once. Drive him out of the gates,
+and then hurry through the city and give a general alarm."
+
+With a fearful shout Eurymachos then drew his own sword and sprang
+toward Odysseus. A deadly arrow from the famous bow met him and he
+fell upon the table, upsetting it, and he went spinning round with
+it on the paved floor, while the food and cup of wine were scattered
+all about. His head struck upon a stone and his feet against a chair.
+Death closed his eyes.
+
+Another suitor drew his sword and rushed toward Odysseus. Telemachos
+met him with a lance and slew him. Then Telemachos sprang to his
+father's side and said: "My father, I will bring thee javelins and
+a shield, and I will arm myself and the swineherd and the master
+herdsmen." "Make haste, my son," responded Odysseus, "for I have but
+few arrows left."
+
+Telemachos hastened to the room where the arms had been stored and
+clothed himself in brass. His loyal herdsmen also put on splendid
+armor, and they hastened back to Odysseus with a complete outfit for
+him. The chief had used up his arrows, and now he dressed himself
+in armor and took the lances. Just then he perceived that the suitors
+had by some means been supplied with armor also. He called to
+Telemachos, who had left the door ajar leading to the apartment where
+the arms had been placed for safety.
+
+Melanthios, the goatherd, had sneaked in and was slyly bringing
+shields and helmets down to them. Telemachos saw him, and gave orders
+to the herdsmen to lock the doors of the armory and secure the spy.
+They hastened to the armory and found Melanthios, who had come back
+for a second load. They cast him on the floor and tied his arms down
+so that he could not move them. Then they took a rope and made two
+loops in it and swung him safely to the timbers in the roof, saying:
+"Melanthios, thou hast a soft bed, and it is where thou canst keep
+watch. In the morning thou canst drive thy goats to the suitors'
+banquet." They locked the doors and left him there and took their
+places at Odysseus' side.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XLIX
+DEATH OF THE SUITORS
+
+
+The combat grew more stubborn. Athena, in the guise of Mentor, stood
+near Odysseus and cheered him on. "Woe unto thee, Mentor, if thou
+dost dare to help Odysseus," cried one of the suitors. "We will not
+spare thee when we have slain him. More yet, we will drive thy wife
+and children out of Ithaca and keep thy wealth." The goddess, in great
+anger at this audacity, turned toward Odysseus and said: "Thou art
+not so swift and terrible in fighting, O Chieftain, as thou wert before
+the walls of Troy."
+
+Athena said this to spur Odysseus on, but she did not remain at his
+side. She changed herself into a swallow and perched upon a rafter
+of the great hall, to put his prowess to a greater test. When she
+had gone, the suitors grew braver and threw their spears at Odysseus
+thick and fast. But their aim was uncertain, and they struck pillars
+and panels and the wall, for the goddess turned their shafts aside.
+
+Odysseus and Telemachos and their faithful servants hurled their
+lances, and the weapons always hit the mark. The cowherd struck
+Ktesippos in the breast and exclaimed, as the suitor fell: "Ktesippos,
+I give thee this spear in exchange for the ox's foot which thou didst
+throw at Odysseus as a gift when he asked alms of thee."
+
+Four of the wooers fell to the ground at once and the remainder
+retreated to the farthest corner of the hall. Still they rallied for
+another onset. Odysseus rushed in upon them and cut them down right
+and left, while Athena from above shook her fearful �gis. The
+surviving wooers were stricken with terror and ran about like a herd
+of oxen chased by a swarm of gadflies. Only the minstrel Phemios and
+the herald Medon were spared. Both of them had served the suitors
+most unwillingly and had secretly advised with Telemachos.
+
+Odysseus searched up and down the hall to see if any suitor could
+be found alive. As fishes lie upon the beach when they have been poured
+out from the nets upon the sand, so lay the multitude of wooers. Not
+one survived.
+
+Then Odysseus called Eurycleia and bade her summon all of the impudent
+and unfaithful servants who had taken sides with the suitors. They
+came into the hall and with loud laments took up the slain and carried
+them out as they were commanded, and placed them in a walled court.
+Then they cleaned the hall with water and sponges, and polished the
+wood and set everything in order.
+
+When this was done, they were driven like a flock of birds into a
+narrow place outside and hung to a beam to die wretchedly. Melanthios
+also was brought down from the armory and cast among the dogs to die.
+
+The palace now was purged with the smoke of sulphur, and the air was
+purified with incense. The loyal servants crowded about their
+chieftain and welcomed him with glad salutations. They kissed his
+hands and face, and wept and laughed for joy. Odysseus was deeply
+moved and sobbed aloud.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER L
+EURYCLEIA ANNOUNCES THE RETURN OF ODYSSEUS TO PENELOPE
+
+
+Eurycleia, with an exulting heart, now hurried up the lofty stairs
+and stood by the queen in her royal chamber. "Penelope," she cried,
+"my child, Odysseus has come. Thy husband is here, and he has slain
+the whole crew of insolent suitors who squandered his riches and
+scoffed at his son." Prudent Penelope answered her: "Eurycleia, thou
+art mad. The gods have taken thy wits away. Do not mock me with such
+idle tales. If any other maid had come on such an errand and waked
+me from sleep, I would have dismissed her with anger."
+
+"Nay, dear child, I do not mock thee; Odysseus has come and is now
+sitting by the hearth. The beggar whom they scoffed at in the hall
+was Odysseus. Telemachos knew it, but dared not tell thee until the
+suitors should be slain."
+
+Penelope rose from her couch and seized Eurycleia by the hands.
+
+"Tell me, dear nurse," she said, "tell me truly, if in fact my husband
+has returned, how was it possible that he alone could destroy such
+a multitude of haughty men!" "I did not see it," responded the old
+nurse, "but I heard the groans of the dying men as I sat with the
+other maids in our own rooms. The doors were locked to bar us from
+the hall. When Telemachos called me, I found Odysseus surrounded by
+the slain. When we had washed the hall and purged it with smoke and
+purified the air with incense, thy husband ordered me to call thee.
+Follow me now, my child, that your heart may be gladdened after it
+has been oppressed so long with sorrows."
+
+Penelope replied again: "Nay, I cannot believe it. The gods may have
+slain the suitors under the guise of Odysseus, but he has perished
+far away from home and never will return."
+
+"My daughter," said the aged nurse, "what words are these? I
+recognized Odysseus myself by the well-known scar made by the boar's
+tusk. I turned to tell thee, but he laid his finger on my lips and
+said: 'Be silent. Let no one know that I am here until the suitors
+all are slain, or else they will destroy me.' Now follow me. I pledge
+my life that I speak the truth."
+
+Penelope descended from her royal bower uncertain how to meet her
+lord. She crossed the threshold and sat down at the hearth, opposite
+Odysseus, who was seated beside a stately column in the blazing light
+of the fire. He did not lift his eyes to look at his wife, but waited
+for her to make the way open for him to speak. Penelope was speechless.
+She looked at her husband and seemed sometimes to recognize him, and
+then the resemblance faded out and he did not seem at all like
+Odysseus.
+
+Telemachos became impatient and spoke to her, chiding her. "Mother,"
+he said, "thou art hard-hearted and unkind. Any other woman would
+extend a hearty welcome to her husband after he had suffered so many
+years of hardship, wandering in foreign lands. Take thy place at my
+father's side and question him. Verily thy heart is harder than a
+stone." "My son," answered Penelope, "I seem to have lost the power
+to speak. I am dazed and cannot even command myself to look at him.
+If this is indeed Odysseus we soon shall know each other, for there
+are secrets known to us two only."
+
+Odysseus smiled and said: "My son, be patient, and let thy mother
+put me to the test. She does not know me in these rags, but she will
+soon be convinced that I am Odysseus. It is more important now to
+prevent the news that the suitors have been slain from spreading.
+They have friends all over the city. Who knows but what they may rise
+up against us. I deem it best that we bathe and put on fresh garments,
+and let the servants do the same.
+
+"And let the minstrel bring his lyre and strike up such music as
+prompts the dance, so that those living near us may report that a
+wedding is being celebrated. Then we may safely venture forth and
+see what is to be done."
+
+Thus spoke the monarch, and his commands were gladly obeyed.
+Telemachos and the servants went their way to the baths and arrayed
+themselves in splendid clothing. The bard took his harp and woke the
+pleasing strains, and the palace halls resounded with mirth and
+dancing.
+
+After awhile those outside were heard to say: "Shame on Penelope!
+She weds a second time, and does not even know whether her absent
+lord is dead or living. She might have waited for him to return."
+
+Meantime Odysseus followed a servant to the bath, and when he had
+been bathed and anointed he put on garments suitable for a king. Athena
+gave him a more majestic appearance, and caused his hair to fall in
+heavy curls, like the petals of the hyacinth. When he came back to
+the great hall and stood before the queen, he looked like an immortal.
+
+"Lady," he said, "the gods have given thee a stubborn heart. Any other
+woman would have given a glad welcome to her husband after he had
+been absent twenty years." To this Penelope responded: "Not so; I
+have no pride nor a cold heart. But I should be unworthy of my lord
+if I accepted a stranger without putting him to the proof. I remember
+well when thou didst go to Troy. Thou didst command Eurycleia to carry
+thy massive bed out into the open air and cover it with fleeces."
+
+"Nay, woman, no living man could perform such a feat. I built that
+massive frame myself. It was a tall olive-tree that grew within one
+of the courts. Round it I built a royal bower, and, cutting off the
+great limbs of the tree, shaped them and fastened them to the trunk.
+In this wise I built the frame, and no one could move it without
+dragging the tree out by the roots. That is a secret known only to
+thee and me."
+
+Penelope had put the final test, and knew that this was surely Odysseus.
+She rose from where she sat and ran to him and threw her arms about
+his neck and kissed his brow. "Odysseus, do not be angry with me,"
+she said. "Many are they who have tried to practise deception upon
+me. Thou hast made me believe in thee." These words pierced Odysseus'
+heart and brought him the relief of tears. He pressed his faithful
+wife to his bosom again and again.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER LI
+ODYSSEUS VISITS HIS FATHER
+
+
+Early the next morning Odysseus dressed himself in his splendid armor
+and bade his son and servants accompany him to the farm. They took
+their weapons and went forth, Odysseus leading the way. It was not
+long before they came to the green fields which were cared for by
+Laertes. He had built his house there, and surrounded it with cabins,
+where his servants slept.
+
+Odysseus was anxious to know whether his father would recognize him
+or not, so he said to one of the men: "Go into the house and call
+my father. Let me see whether he will know me, after I have been so
+long away." Placing his weapons in their hands, he went down into
+the orchard. There were no servants about, for they had all gone off
+to gather thorns with which to build a fence.
+
+There Odysseus saw his father working around a young tree that he
+had just planted. He was clad in old, coarse clothes that had been
+repeatedly patched, a goat-skin cap, and gloves to protect his hands
+from the briers.
+
+It was pitiful to see the want of hope in the old man's face as he
+moved about brooding over his troubles. Odysseus was uncertain
+whether he should throw his arms about his father's neck and clasp
+him to his heart and kiss him, or whether it were better to question
+him.
+
+He approached Laertes gently and, having greeted him, said: "My friend,
+thou art a skilful farmer. Every fig and vine and pear and olive has
+been carefully trained. But no one seems to care for thee. Thy master
+treats thee badly, for thou art ill-clad and unkempt. An old man
+deserves better things. Thy face does not look like the face of a
+servant. Indeed one might take thee for a king. Now tell me, who owns
+this orchard? And tell me also if this land is Ithaca. I desire to
+learn what became of Odysseus, the son of Laertes. He was once my
+guest and one that I made most welcome."
+
+Laertes wept. "Thou art indeed in Ithaca, O stranger," he said. "But
+thou dost seek in vain for Odysseus. The land is full of wicked men,
+and there is no host to load thee with generous gifts, a recompense
+for thy hospitality. Oh, tell me of my son; when did he lodge with
+thee? Woe is me! The beasts and birds have long since devoured him.
+No mother folded his shroud about him, nor did his father or his loyal
+wife weep upon his bier. Tell me, what is thy name? Where is thy ship?
+How didst thou come here?"
+
+Odysseus was overcome with pity, and invented a tale to prepare
+Laertes for his unexpected coming. Then he clasped the dear old man
+in his arms and kissed his trembling hands, and said: "I am thy son,
+my father; I am the Odysseus of whom thou dost inquire. Here is the
+scar given me by the wild boar as I hunted on Parnassos. And for further
+proof I will tell thee of the orchard-trees thou gavest me when I
+was a child. There were thirteen pear-trees, forty fig-trees, and
+ten apple-trees. Forbear thy weeping and cease to mourn. I have slain
+the suitor-robbers who were destroying my riches, and I have taken
+possession of my house again."
+
+Overwhelmed with joy, the old king trembled from head to foot. The
+sturdy chieftain, Odysseus, saw it and drew him to his heart to keep
+him from fainting, and held him there until his strength came back.
+Then they went up to the house, where a supper had been prepared,
+and Telemachos was waiting. Laertes went to the bath and came back
+clad like a king. The grief had left his face, and he took on his
+old majestic appearance. As they sat at the banquet, relating the
+experiences of the past years, Dolius and his sons, the servants who
+had gone in search of thorns, returned. Dolius recognized Odysseus
+and seized him by the hand and saluted him with joyful greetings,
+and his sons gathered round the chieftain eager to take his hand.
+
+Meantime the souls of the suitors had gone down to the abode of Pluto.
+Hermes led them, and they followed, crying and wailing like bats in
+a dark cave. The shades of Achilles, Agamemnon, Ajax, and other heroes
+saw them and constrained them to relate the mishaps that had brought
+them there. Then Agamemnon's ghost responded: "Fortunate Odysseus!
+His fame shall last forever, and poets shall sing the praises of
+Penelope in all the coming ages."
+
+Ere Odysseus and Laertes had finished their feast, the news of the
+dreadful death of the suitors spread over the city. The wooers had
+many friends, and they came to the palace weeping and mourning, ready
+to avenge their slaughter. Finding that Odysseus was not at home,
+they proceeded to the market-place. The father of Antino�s arose and
+lifted up his voice crying for vengeance, but Medon, the herald,
+warned them that a god had taken part against them and that strife
+would be useless.
+
+Halitherses, a wise and reverend citizen, took up the word: "Ye men
+of Ithaca," he said, "give ear to what I have to say. Odysseus was
+not the cause of your misfortunes, but you, yourselves. Ye would not
+check the insolence of the suitors, even when Mentor bade you do it.
+Contend not with Odysseus nor bring down his wrath upon us."
+
+The Ithacans were now divided against themselves. Half of them took
+up arms to make war on Odysseus, and started for his father's house.
+In this adversity Athena did not forget her favorite chief, but armed
+herself, and, taking on the guise of Mentor, placed herself at
+Odysseus' side. A son of Dolius was first to announce that a crowd
+was marching against them, when they all arose quickly, donned their
+armor, and went outside.
+
+Then Odysseus cried out to Telemachos: "Now is the moment to show
+thyself a hero, my son. Do not bring disgrace upon thy forefathers,
+for they are renowned over the whole world for their bravery."
+Telemachos responded: "There is no danger of that, my dear father,
+as I shall show thee presently." When Laertes heard this he rejoiced
+and said: "This is a happy day for me. How blest am I to see my son
+and grandson rivals in brave deeds."
+
+Athena now drew near to the old king, and inspired him with youthful
+courage. He swung his spear aloft and threw it at the leader of the
+host and smote him to the earth. Odysseus and Telemachos rushed into
+the fray with double-edged swords. They would have made an end of
+the whole multitude, but Athena called aloud: "People of Ithaca, cease
+from fighting! Retire at once from this contest and shed no more
+blood."
+
+The Ithacans grew pale with fright at hearing the voice of the goddess.
+They threw down their weapons and ran toward the city in a panic of
+fear. Odysseus shouted in triumph as he gave chase, but Zeus sent
+a thunder-bolt down as a sign to Athena that she should restrain him.
+The goddess called to him to cease the pursuit, and, taking the guise
+of Mentor, she moved the minds of Odysseus and his enemies to mutual
+pledges of peace and good-will.
+
+
+
+
+VOCABULARY AND NOTES
+
+
+A chil' les--also called Pelides, the hero of the "Iliad." He was
+the son of Peleus (king of Phthia in Thessaly) and the sea-nymph,
+Thetis.
+
+� g[=e]' an--a sea east of Greece.
+
+�' o lus--the keeper of the winds, and king of Lipara, one of the
+�olian isles north of Sicily.
+
+Ag a mem' non--leader of all the Greek chiefs in the Trojan war.
+
+A' jax, or Aias--king of Salamis and cousin of Achilles. He was the
+son of Telamon and was called Ajax the Greater.
+
+Al ex [)a]n' dr[)o]s--Paris, son of Priam.
+
+Al kin' [)o] �s--king of Scheria, father of Nausica�. He gave aid
+to Odysseus when he was stranded on the island.
+
+An tin' o �s--the boldest of the suitors.
+
+Aph ro d[=i]' te--Venus, the goddess of love and beauty. The island
+of Kythera (Cythera), south of Greece, was the seat of her worship.
+
+A p[)o]l' lo--the Sun-god, brother of Artemis and son of Zeus and
+Leto. The island of Delos was his mythical birthplace and his
+principal oracle was at Delphi.
+
+Ar ca' di a, or Arkadia--the central district of the Peloponnesus.
+
+A re' t� (� r[=a]' t[=a])--wife of Alkino�s and queen of Scheria.
+
+Ar e th[=u]' sa--a spring "where the swine of Eumaios ate 'abundance
+of acorns and drank the black water.'" (See Baedeker's
+Greece--Ithaca.) Arethusa was also the name of a water-nymph
+inhabiting the spring.
+
+Ar' gus, or Argos--the most celebrated dog known to fame. He belonged
+to Odysseus.
+
+Ar' te mis, or Diana--goddess of the moon and sister to Apollo. She
+was called the hunter-goddess and the protector of animals.
+
+As' ph[=o] del--a flower sacred to Persephone. The souls of the
+departed were supposed to wander in meadows adorned with these
+beautiful flowers.
+
+A th[=e]' n[=e], or Athena; Latin, Minerva--the patron deity of Athens.
+The city was named for her. Ruskin calls her the "Queen of the Air,"
+and explains her real significance as being the inspiration of the
+soul, which corresponds to the physical vigor and life received by
+inhaling the pure air. She is always called the "Goddess of Wisdom."
+
+A' treus (a' tr[=u]se)--son of Pelops and father of Agamemnon.
+
+Au' lis--a bay and town on the coast of Greece, about thirty miles
+north of Athens. "The scanty ruins of Aulis lie on the rugged ridge
+of rock which stretches into the sea between the two bays. The little
+town never attained any importance, for its site was unfavorable for
+the development of a community; but the two sheltered bays were
+excellently adapted to be the rendezvous of a fleet." (See Baedeker's
+Greece--Aulis.)
+
+Cad' mus, or Kadmos--the founder of Thebes in Boeotia. According to
+tradition, he came from Phoenicia and brought the alphabet to the
+Greeks and the knowledge of working in metals.
+
+Cal' chas, or Kalchas--a soothsayer. He offended Agamemnon by
+declaring that the Greeks suffered from the wrath of the gods through
+his offences.
+
+Ca lyp' so--the goddess of Silence, daughter of Oceanos and Tethys,
+and queen of Ogygia. She tried by every art to detain Odysseus on
+his way home from Troy.
+
+Cas san' dra--a daughter of Priam, and a prophetess, taken captive
+in the Trojan war and awarded to Agamemnon.
+
+Cha ryb' dis--a whirlpool off the coast of Sicily, a little to the
+north of Messina.
+
+Cir' c�, or Kirke--the daughter of Helios, the Sun. She was an
+enchantress who lived on the island ��a. She infused into the vine
+the intoxicating quality found in the juice of the grape. "The grave
+of Circe used to be pointed out on the island of St. George, close
+to Salamis." (See Baedeker's Greece--Salamis.)
+
+Cy' clops, or Kyklops, also called Polyphemus--a monstrous one-eyed
+giant. He was the son of Poseidon. It was due to his prayer for revenge
+that Odysseus was kept so long wandering on the sea.
+
+Cy the' ra, or Kythera--a rocky island lying south of Greece. It was
+the seat of the worship of Aphrodite.
+
+D[=e]' los--an island about sixty miles southeast of Athens. It is
+the mythical birthplace of Apollo and Artemis.
+
+D[=e] mod' o kos--a bard at the court of Alkino�s.
+
+E' lis--a district and a city in the northwestern part of the
+Peloponnesus. Like Sparta, the city had no walls. It was protected
+by the sacred peace of Olympia.
+
+The plain or precinct of Olympia is situated in the district of Elis.
+Pyrgos is the nearest railroad station. "Olympia owed its high
+importance throughout the entire Grecian world to the famous Olympic
+games in honor of Zeus, which took place periodically for centuries.
+Excavations there have brought to light many magnificent pieces of
+sculpture, among them the Hermes of Praxiteles."
+
+El p[=e]' nor--one of the comrades of Odysseus. He fell from the roof
+of Circ�'s palace and was killed.
+
+E lys' ian--pertaining to Elysium, the abode of dead heroes and other
+happy spirits.
+
+Eu mai' os, or Eum�us--the swineherd of Odysseus.
+
+Eu r[=o]' tas--a river of southern Greece.
+
+Eu ry' a los--a son of Alkino�s.
+
+Eu ry clei' a ([=u] ry cl[=i]' �)--the nurse of Odysseus and
+Telemachos.
+
+Eu ry' l[)o] chos, or Eurylochus--one of the companions of Odysseus.
+
+Eu ry' ma chos, or Eurymachus--one of the suitors of Penelope.
+
+Gor' gon--a monster of fearful aspect, a daughter of Phorkys and Ceto.
+Her hair was entwined with serpents, her hands were of brass, her
+body covered with scales, and anyone gazing upon her was turned into
+stone.
+
+Hel' en, or Helene--a daughter of Tyndareus and Leda. She was the
+wife of Menelaos and was always called "the most beautiful woman in
+the world."
+
+Hel' las--Greece, the land of the Hellenes.
+
+H[=e]' li os--the god of the Sun.
+
+He phais' tos, or Heph�stus--Vulcan. He was the blacksmith god, the
+god of fire, and a worker in metals.
+
+H[=e]' ra, H[=e]r[=e]--Juno, the wife of Zeus. She was worshipped
+as the queen of heaven and was regarded as a model of womanly virtue.
+Argos was the chief centre of the worship of Hera.
+
+H[=e]r' a kles, or Hercules--a celebrated hero whose deeds are
+connected with many localities. There is a cave near Nemea where he
+is said to have slain a lion, not far from Stymphalos, where he put
+the Harpies to flight, and Erymanthos, the scene of the killing of
+the Erymanthian boar. There are traditions of his heroism connected
+with Thessaly (Thebes) and Locris, also.
+
+Her' bart--a German philosopher and pedagogian.
+
+Her' m[=e]s, or Mercury--the messenger of the gods, also their herald.
+
+Her mi' [)o] ne--the daughter of Menelaos and Helen.
+
+Ho' mer--the greatest of the Greek poets and author of the "Iliad"
+and "Odyssey."
+
+I' da--a mountain of Asia Minor, east of Troy.
+
+Il' i ad--an epic poem, probably the greatest ever written, devoted
+to the deeds of Achilles, and taken by the best scholars of modern
+times as an interpretation of Greek life, Greek thought, and the Greek
+religion.
+
+I' no, or Leucothea--a daughter of Cadmus, a sea-nymph who helped
+Odysseus by giving him an enchanted veil.
+
+Iph i gen ei' a--the daughter of Agamemnon and Clytemnestra. "Ulrichs
+has discovered the site of the famous Temple of Artemis or Diana,
+where Agamemnon was on the point of sacrificing his daughter
+Iphigeneia, before the departure of the Greek fleet for Troy." (See
+Baedeker's Greece--Aulis.) To appreciate the character of this
+famous woman one must read the "Iphigeneia in Aulis" of Euripides
+and the "Iphigeneia in Tauris" of Goethe.
+
+Ith' a ca, or Ithaka, Greek Ith�ke--rocky island with an area of 37�
+square miles and 12,500 inhabitants. "The world-wide fame of this
+little island is of course due to the Homeric epic of the Odyssey,
+in which the misfortunes and wiles, the wanderings, and home-coming
+of Ulysses (Odysseus), King of Ithaca, have been handed down to
+posterity in undying verse. Even if the person of the hero be relegated
+to the realm of myths, it is indisputable that the descriptions of
+the poem rest upon a more or less exact local knowledge; and this
+is evident not only in the account of the situation and general
+character of the island but also in numerous small details.... The
+island became almost entirely depopulated in the middle ages, in
+consequence of the raids of pirates and the Turkish wars, and did
+not begin to recover until the Venetian epoch. But similar conditions
+of life make the modern islanders resemble the ancient. To this day
+the Ithacans are distinguished by their bold seamanship, their love
+of home, and their hospitality." (See Baedeker's Greece--Ithaca.)
+
+Ja' son, or Iason--the hero who undertook the expedition in search
+of the Golden Fleece.
+
+Ktes ip' pos, or Ctesippus--one of the suitors of Penelope.
+
+Lak e dai' mon, or Laced�mon--a district in southeastern Greece.
+Sparta was its capital.
+
+La �r' tes--the father of Odysseus.
+
+La o' da m�s--a son of Alkino�s.
+
+La o' co �n, or Laoko�n--a young priest of Apollo. He warned the
+Trojans not to accept the wooden horse left by the Greeks and was
+destroyed by a serpent.
+
+Lo' tus--the Egyptian water-lily, also a tree. The lotus-eaters ate
+of the fruit of the lotus-tree and forgot their homes and friends.
+
+Me l[)a]n' thi os--a servant of Odysseus, a goatherd who sympathized
+with the suitors and served them.
+
+Men e l[=a]' os, or Menelaus--a son of Atreus and brother of Agamemnon.
+Menelaos was the king of Sparta and husband of Helen.
+
+Men' tor--the wise counsellor of Telemachos.
+
+Mil t[=i]' � des--the hero of the battle of Marathon, fought 490 B.C.
+In this battle the Greeks, numbering 10,000 men, conquered ten times
+as many Persians.
+
+Mi' nos--a son of Zeus and ruler over Crete.
+
+Mo' ly--a fabulous plant having magic properties. It had a white
+blossom and a black root.
+
+My c[=e]' n�, or Myk[=e]nai--an ancient city of Argolis, in the
+northeastern Peloponnesus. "Dr. Henry Schliemann, in 1876, made rich
+discoveries there, weapons, ornaments, vessels of gold, silver and
+clay," skeletons "surrounded by bands of gold, golden shovels
+engraved with battle-scenes," etc. (See Baedeker's Greece--Mycen�
+and Athens.)
+
+Myr' m[)i] d[)o]ns--a warlike people of Thrace, ruled by Achilles
+and taken by him to the Trojan war as followers.
+
+Nau sic' a �--the daughter of Alkino�s.
+
+N[=e] [)o]p t[)o]l' [)e] m[)o]s--the son of Achilles.
+
+N[)e]s' tor--the leader of the warriors of Pylos, in southwestern
+Greece.
+
+O ke' a nos, or Oceanus--the god of the river Oceanus, and son of
+Heaven and Earth.
+
+Od ys' seus (s[=u]se), or Ulysses--the son of Laertes and Anticleia
+and the hero of Homer's Odyssey. Being summoned to the Trojan war,
+he feigned madness, and harnessed a mule and a cow to a plough and
+began ploughing the sea-shore. Palamedes, to test his madness, placed
+his infant son, Telemachos, in front of the plough, and Odysseus
+quickly turned it aside. He became famous for his bravery and craft
+in the war. He is looked upon by critics as the most perfect type
+of adult Greek ideals.
+
+[Illustration: ODYSSEUS FEIGNS MADNESS]
+
+O lymp' os, or Olympus--a mountain in Thrace. The home of the gods.
+
+O r[)e]s' t[=e]s--the son of Agamemnon.
+
+Par' is, or Alexandros--a son of Priam. At his birth there was a
+prophecy that he would be the ruin of his country; hence he was cast
+out upon Mount Ida, where he was found and rescued by a shepherd.
+(See Introduction.)
+
+Par nas' sos--a mountain near the north coast of the Corinthian Gulf.
+It is 8,070 feet high and commands a view of Mount Olympos to the
+north, Euboea on the east, the islands of the Archipelago, the
+Peloponnesus, and even Mount Korax.
+
+Pat' r[)o] klos, or Patroclus--the intimate friend of Achilles. His
+death at the hands of the Trojans provoked Achilles to action.
+
+Pei sis' tra tos--a son of Nestor.
+
+P[=e]' leus--the father of Achilles.
+
+Pel op on n[=e]s' us--the peninsula of lower Greece.
+
+Pe nel' o pe--the wife of Odysseus. The greatest heroine of ancient
+romance.
+
+P[)e]r s[)e]ph' [=o] ne, or Proserpine--daughter of Demeter (Ceres).
+"She was the goddess of Spring and was allowed to spend two-thirds
+of the year with her mother, while the remaining time she dwelt with
+her husband, Hades, in his underground abode." Eleusis, twelve miles
+west of Athens, was the centre of the worship of Demeter and Persephone.
+(See Baedeker's Greece--Eleusis.)
+
+Phai a' ki ans, or Ph�acians--the people of the island of Scheria,
+over whom Alkino�s ruled.
+
+Ph[=e]' mi os--a bard at the court of Odysseus.
+
+Phor' kys--the harbor where the Ph�acians landed Odysseus on his
+return to Ithaca. "The Bay of Vathy," says Baedeker, "disputes with
+the Bay of Dexi� the honor of being the Harbour of Phorkys."
+
+Plu' to, or Hades--a son of Rhea and Kronos and brother of Zeus and
+Poseidon. Pluto was the ruler of the lower world.
+
+Po sei' don, or Neptune--brother of Zeus and Hades. Poseidon was the
+ruler of the seas and was the first to train and employ horses.
+
+Pol y phe' mus, or Polyphemos or Cyclops--the son of Poseidon. He
+was one of the Cyclops or Kyklops who were said to live in the heart
+of burning mountains, particularly in Mount �tna.
+
+Pri' am, or Priamos--king of Troy and father of Paris.
+
+Pro' teus--an ocean deity who lived at the bottom of the sea. He took
+care of Poseidon's sea-calves and was famous for his evasiveness.
+
+Py' los--a town (and bay) in the southwestern part of lower Greece.
+It was the centre of Nestor's kingdom.
+
+Sa' mos--"at present a little village on the island of Cephalonia,
+the starting-point of the boats to Ithaca. In Homer, the _island_
+of Cephalonia, or its east part, is called Same; and in the latter
+part of the Odyssey, Samos appears as belonging to the kingdom of
+Ithaca." (Baedeker.) Samos, a large island near Asia Minor, is not
+related to the Samos of the Odyssey.
+
+Ska man' dros, or Scamander--a river of the Troad or plains of Troy.
+
+Scher' i a--an island northwest of Greece. "The ancients identified
+Corf� with the Ph�acian island of Scheria, mentioned in the 'Odyssey,'
+as ruled over by Alkino�s." (Baedeker.)
+
+Skyl' la--a rock in southwestern Italy. It was supposed to be the
+abode of a monster with many heads and hands.
+
+Sky' ros--a large island east of Greece.
+
+Sim' o is--a river in the Troad, and a branch of the Scamander.
+
+Si' rens--daughters of Achel�os and a Muse, or, according to another
+account, daughters of Phorkys. They failed to care for Persephone
+when Pluto seized her to carry her off, and Demeter took revenge by
+transforming them into monsters half woman and half bird.
+
+Sis' y phos--a hero who secured a fountain to the citadel of Corinth
+by betraying Zeus. Sisyphos was punished by being obliged to roll
+stones up-hill in Hades.
+
+Spar' ta--a town in the southern part of the Peloponnesus, on the
+Eurotas. It was the chief city of Laced�mon and the home of Menelaos
+and Helen. It had no walls, but its acropolis was covered with temples.
+Ancient Sparta was noted for the bravery of its people. At present
+Sparta has about 3,600 inhabitants. There are few relics of its
+ancient greatness.
+
+Styx--a stream of water in central lower Greece. "The thread of water
+descends from a huge cliff against a background of dark moss, which
+has earned for the brook the name of 'Black Water.' At the bottom
+of the cliff the water loses itself in a chaos of rocks. The ancients
+saw in the icy coldness of the water and in the barren tract around
+an image of the underworld." (See Baedeker's Greece.) To swear by
+the Styx was to take "the great oath of the gods."
+
+Tan' ta los--a king of Phrygia punished by the gods for treachery
+and for cruelty to his son. He was doomed to suffer from hunger and
+thirst while standing close to food and water which he could not reach.
+
+T[=e] l[)e]' ma chos--the son of Odysseus and Penelope.
+
+Ten' e dos--an island in the neighborhood of Troy or Ilium.
+
+Them is' to kles--a great statesman of Athens, and a leader of the
+Greeks in the Persian war when the Greeks won the battle of Salamis.
+
+The' seus (Th[=e]' s[=u]se)--a son of �geus and �thra. Like his
+counterpart Herakles, Theseus performed wonderful deeds, and finally
+became ruler of Athens.
+
+Thes' sa ly--a large province of northern Greece.
+
+Th[)e]' tis--a sea-nymph, the mother of Achilles.
+
+Ti res' ias, or Teiresias--a Theban seer. He retained his
+consciousness after death, and Odysseus descended into Hades to
+consult with him before he could reach Ithaca.
+
+Troy, Ilios, or Ilium--a city of Asia Minor and the scene of the Trojan
+war. Dr. Schliemann has identified the city with Hissarlik, and in
+his excavations there found many evidences of the war, such as spears,
+helmets, etc.
+
+Zeus, or Jupiter--a son of Kronos and Rhea. His abode was supposed
+to be on Mount Olympos, in Thessaly. He was considered the highest
+of the gods, ruler of the heavens and the earth.
+
+Za' kyn thos, or Zante--an island near Corf�.
+
+
+
+
+[Transcriber's note: The publishers of this book used an unusual
+convention in which only a single pair of quotation marks surround
+a quote, even when the quote extends over multiple paragraphs or
+multiple chapters.  This transcription has conventional usage of
+quotation marks.]
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of Odysseus, the Hero of Ithaca, by Homer
+
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+The Project Gutenberg EBook of Odysseus, the Hero of Ithaca, by Homer
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+Title: Odysseus, the Hero of Ithaca
+       Adapted from the Third Book of the Primary Schools of Athens, Greece
+
+Author: Homer
+
+Editor: Mary Elizabeth Burt
+
+Translator: Zena�de Alexe�evna Ragozin
+
+Release Date: March 16, 2008 [EBook #24856]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ASCII
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK ODYSSEUS, THE HERO OF ITHACA ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by Ron Swanson
+
+
+
+
+
+[Frontispiece: ODYSSEUS AS A YOUTH AT HOME WITH HIS MOTHER]
+
+
+
+
+ODYSSEUS
+THE HERO OF ITHACA
+
+ADAPTED FROM THE THIRD BOOK OF THE PRIMARY SCHOOLS OF ATHENS, GREECE
+
+
+BY
+
+MARY E. BURT
+
+_Author of "Literary Landmarks," "Stories from Plato," "Story of the
+German Iliad," "The Child-Life Reading Study"; Editor of "Little
+Nature Studies"; Teacher in the John A. Browning School, New York
+City_
+
+AND
+
+ZENAIDE A. RAGOZIN
+
+_Author of "The Story of Chaldea," "The Story of Assyria," "The Story
+of Media, Babylon, and Persia," "The Story of Vedic India"; Member
+of the Royal Asiatic Society of Great Britain and Ireland, of the
+American Oriental Society, of the Societe Ethnologique of Paris,
+etc._
+
+
+
+
+CHARLES SCRIBNER'S SONS
+NEW YORK   CHICAGO   BOSTON
+
+
+
+
+COPYRIGHT, 1898, BY
+CHARLES SCRIBNER'S SONS
+
+Printed in the United States of America
+
+
+
+
+                         To
+                    THE TEACHER
+       WHOSE INTEGRITY AND PEDAGOGICAL SPIRIT
+    HAVE CREATED A SCHOOL WHEREIN THE IDEAL MAY
+             PROVE ITSELF THE PRACTICAL
+                         AND
+             THOSE ENTHUSIASTIC PUPILS
+    WHO LOVE THE LOYALTY AND BRAVERY OF ODYSSEUS
+              THIS BOOK IS DEDICATED
+
+
+
+
+CONTENTS
+
+                                                                 PAGE
+INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xiii
+
+
+PART I
+AN INTRODUCTION TO THE LIFE OF THE HERO, ODYSSEUS
+
+CHAPTER                                                          PAGE
+      I. About Troy and the Journey of Paris to Greece . . . . .    3
+
+     II. The Flight of Helen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    6
+
+    III. The Greeks Sail for Troy  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   10
+
+     IV. The Fall of Troy  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   13
+
+
+PART II
+THE RETURN OF ODYSSEUS TO HIS OWN COUNTRY
+
+CHAPTER                                                          PAGE
+      V. Odysseus on the Island of Calypso . . . . . . . . . . .   21
+
+     VI. Odysseus Constructs a Raft and Leaves the Island  . . .   25
+
+    VII. Odysseus is Saved on the Island of Scheria  . . . . . .   29
+
+   VIII. Nausicaa is Sent to the River by Athena . . . . . . . .   31
+
+     IX. Odysseus Arrives at the Palace of Alkinoos  . . . . . .   38
+
+      X. Odysseus in the Halls of Alkinoos . . . . . . . . . . .   42
+
+     XI. The Banquet in Honor of Odysseus  . . . . . . . . . . .   47
+
+    XII. Odysseus Relates His Adventures . . . . . . . . . . . .   54
+
+   XIII. The Lotus-Eaters and the Cyclops  . . . . . . . . . . .   57
+
+    XIV. The Cave of the Cyclops . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   60
+
+     XV. The Blinding of the Cyclops . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   64
+
+    XVI. Odysseus and His Companions Leave the Land of the
+           Cyclops . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   67
+
+   XVII. The Adventures of Odysseus on the Island of AEolus  . .   72
+
+  XVIII. Odysseus at the Home of Circe . . . . . . . . . . . . .   75
+
+    XIX. Circe Instructs Odysseus Concerning His Descent to
+           Hades . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   78
+
+     XX. The Adventures of Odysseus in Hades . . . . . . . . . .   84
+
+    XXI. Odysseus Converses with His Mother and Agamemnon  . . .   87
+
+   XXII. Conversation with Achilles and Other Heroes . . . . . .   90
+
+  XXIII. The Return of Odysseus to the Island of Circe . . . . .   94
+
+   XXIV. Odysseus Meets the Sirens, Skylla, and Charybdis  . . .   98
+
+    XXV. Odysseus on the Island of Helios  . . . . . . . . . . .  101
+
+   XXVI. The Departure of Odysseus from the Island of Scheria  .  105
+
+  XXVII. Odysseus Arrives at Ithaca  . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  108
+
+ XXVIII. Odysseus Seeks the Swineherd  . . . . . . . . . . . . .  113
+
+
+PART III
+THE TRIUMPH OF ODYSSEUS
+
+CHAPTER                                                          PAGE
+   XXIX. Athena Advises Telemachos . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  123
+
+    XXX. Telemachos Astonishes the Wooers  . . . . . . . . . . .  128
+
+   XXXI. Penelope's Web  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  130
+
+  XXXII. The Journey of Telemachos . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  135
+
+ XXXIII. Telemachos in Pylos . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  138
+
+  XXXIV. Telemachos in Sparta  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  141
+
+   XXXV. Menelaos Relates His Adventures . . . . . . . . . . . .  147
+
+  XXXVI. The Conspiracy of the Suitors . . . . . . . . . . . . .  151
+
+ XXXVII. Telemachos Returns to Ithaca  . . . . . . . . . . . . .  155
+
+XXXVIII. Telemachos and the Swineherd  . . . . . . . . . . . . .  158
+
+  XXXIX. Telemachos Recognizes Odysseus  . . . . . . . . . . . .  161
+
+     XL. Telemachos Returns to the Palace  . . . . . . . . . . .  165
+
+    XLI. Odysseus is Recognized by His Dog . . . . . . . . . . .  169
+
+   XLII. Odysseus Comes, a Beggar, to His Own House  . . . . . .  172
+
+  XLIII. Conversation of Odysseus and Penelope . . . . . . . . .  176
+
+   XLIV. Eurycleia Recognizes Odysseus . . . . . . . . . . . . .  180
+
+    XLV. Penelope's Dream  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  183
+
+   XLVI. Athena Encourages Odysseus  . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  185
+
+  XLVII. The Last Banquet of the Suitors . . . . . . . . . . . .  188
+
+ XLVIII. Odysseus Bends the Bow  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  194
+
+   XLIX. Death of the Suitors  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  201
+
+      L. Eurycleia Announces the Return of Odysseus to Penelope   203
+
+     LI. Odysseus Visits His Father  . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  209
+
+         Vocabulary and Notes  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  215
+
+
+
+
+LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS
+
+
+ODYSSEUS AS A YOUTH AT HOME WITH HIS MOTHER  . . . . . . Frontispiece
+
+                                                          FACING PAGE
+THE SILVER-FOOTED THETIS RISING FROM THE WAVES . . . . . . . . .   10
+
+ODYSSEUS AND MENELAOS PERSUADING AGAMEMNON TO SACRIFICE
+           IPHIGENEIA  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   12
+
+ALPHEUS AND ARETHUSA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  113
+
+THE SWINEHERD TELLING HIS STORY TO ODYSSEUS  . . . . . . . . . .  119
+
+ODYSSEUS FEIGNS MADNESS  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  146
+
+
+
+
+INTRODUCTION
+
+
+It has long been the opinion of many of the more progressive teachers
+of the United States that, next to Herakles, Odysseus is the hero
+closest to child-life, and that the stories from the "Odyssey" are
+the most suitable for reading-lessons. These conclusions have been
+reached through independent experiments not related to educational
+work in foreign countries.
+
+While sojourning in Athens I had the pleasure of visiting the best
+schools, both public and private, and found the reading especially
+spirited. I examined the books in use and found the regular
+reading-books to consist of the classic tales of the country, the
+stories of Herakles, Theseus, Perseus, and so forth, in the reader
+succeeding the primer, and the stories of Odysseus, or Ulysses, as
+we commonly call him, following as a third book, answering to our
+second or third reader. This book I brought home with me and had a
+careful, literal translation made. I submitted this translation to
+that notable scholar, Zenaide A. Ragozin, with whom I faithfully
+traversed the ground, word by word and sentence by sentence. This
+version I have carefully compared with Bryant and rewritten, making
+the language as simple as could be consistent with the dignity of
+the subject-matter.
+
+The introduction to the original book as I found it in Greece contains
+many interesting points, since it shows that educators in foreign
+countries, notably in Germany, had come to the same conclusion with
+our best American teachers. The editor of the little Greek
+reading-book says:
+
+"In editing this work we have made use not only of Homer's 'Odyssey,'
+_but also of that excellent reader which is used in the public schools
+of Germany_, Willman's 'Lesebuch aus Homer.' We have divided the
+little volume into three parts, the first of which gives a short
+_resume_ of the war against Troy and the destruction of that city,
+the second the wanderings of Odysseus till his arrival in Ithaca,
+the third his arrival and the killing of the wooers. We have no apology
+to make in presenting this book to the public as a school-book, since
+many people superior to us have shown the need of such books in
+school-work. The new public schools, as is well known, have a mission
+of the highest importance. They do not aim, as formerly, at absolute
+knowledge pounded into the heads of children in a mechanical way.
+Their aim is the mental and ethical development of the pupils. Reading
+and writing lead but half way to this goal. With all nations the
+readers used in the public schools are a collection of the noblest
+thoughts of their authors."
+
+The Greek editor had never read the inane rat and cat stories of
+American school "readers" when he wrote that. He continues:
+
+"Happily the Greek nation, more than any other, abounds in literary
+masterpieces. Nearly all of the Greek writings contain an abundance
+of practical wisdom and virtue. Their worth is so great that even
+the most advanced European nations do not hesitate to introduce them
+into their schools. The Germans do this, although their habits and
+customs are so different from ours. They especially admire Homer's
+works. These books, above all others, afford pleasure to the young,
+and the reason for it is clearly set forth by the eminent educator
+Herbart:
+
+"'The little boy is grieved when told that he is little. Nor does
+he enjoy the stories of little children. This is because his
+imagination reaches out and beyond his environments. I find the
+stories from Homer to be more suitable reading for young children
+than the mass of juvenile books, because they contain grand truths.'
+
+"Therefore these stories are held in as high esteem by the German
+children as by the Greek. In no other works do children find the grand
+and noble traits in human life so faithfully and charmingly depicted
+as in Homer. Here all the domestic, civic, and religious virtues of
+the people are marvellously brought to light and the national feeling
+is exalted. The Homeric poetry, and especially the 'Odyssey,' is
+adapted to very young children, not only because it satisfies so well
+the needs which lead to mental development, but also for another
+reason. As with the people of olden times bravery was considered the
+greatest virtue, so with boys of this age and all ages. No other
+ethical idea has such predominance as that of prowess. Strength of
+body and a firm will characterize those whom boys choose as their
+leaders. Hence the pleasure they derive from the accounts of
+celebrated heroes of yore whose bravery, courage, and prudence they
+admire."
+
+The editor further extols the advantages arising from the study of
+Homer, it making the youthful students acquainted with the earliest
+periods of Greek history, the manners and customs of the people, and
+he ends by quoting from Herbart:
+
+"Boys must first get acquainted with the noisy market-place of Ithaca
+and then be led to the Athens of Miltiades and Themistokles."
+
+With equal truth the American can say that the child whose patriotism
+is kindled by the Homeric fire will the more gladly respond to the
+ideals set forth in the history of a Columbus or a Washington.
+
+MARY E. BURT.
+
+
+
+
+PART I
+AN INTRODUCTION TO THE LIFE OF THE HERO, ODYSSEUS
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER I
+ABOUT TROY AND THE JOURNEY OF PARIS TO GREECE
+
+
+On the northern shore of Asia Minor there lies a plateau watered by
+many small rivers and surrounded on all sides by mountains, only on
+the north it slopes gently to the sea. On this plateau, between the
+Simois and Scamandros rivers, in the oldest times there stood a very
+rich and powerful city, whose name was Troy. It was the capital of
+a large and fertile district, known as the Troad.
+
+There, about 1200 B.C., reigned a king by the name of Priam, possessed
+of great power and boundless wealth. He had many sons and daughters.
+It was said, indeed, that he had fifty sons who were all married and
+living in their own homes, which they had built by the king's wish
+around the royal palace.
+
+They were all handsome and heroic young men. One of the youngest,
+Paris, also named Alexandros, surpassed the others in beauty. He was
+a restless youth and not fond of his home, as were the others. He
+had set his heart on travelling and seeing strange countries and
+cities. King Priam was extremely fond of his large family, and took
+pride in having all his children about him, so that at first he was
+greatly opposed to the wishes of Paris.
+
+But the youth was so persistent and unhappy that the king at last
+consented to let him go. Without delay, Paris called together a few
+friends with tastes as adventurous as his own. They embarked in a
+new ship well provided with all that travellers need, and set sail
+for the famous land on the shores of the AEgean Sea, of which they
+had heard so many wonderful things, and which was called Hellas.
+
+Nearly in the middle of the plain which forms the southern part of
+Hellas was the city of Sparta. It was on the river Eurotas, and was
+the capital of a large district called Lacedaemon, and it was to this
+city that Paris came.
+
+Now, there was a mysterious reason for this strange desire of
+Paris--his passionate longing to travel. In his early youth, while
+he was still minding his herds on the rich pastures of Mount Ida,
+he received a visit from the three greatest goddesses of Olympos.
+
+Hera, the queen of Heaven and consort of Zeus--Athena, the goddess
+of wisdom, and Zeus's favorite daughter--and Aphrodite, the goddess
+of love and beauty, had a dispute among themselves.
+
+Each thought herself the most beautiful of the three, and they would
+have come to high words about it had not Athena proposed that they
+should ask the handsomest man in the world to settle the question.
+This happened to be the young royal shepherd, Paris. So the three
+goddesses floated down to the slope of Mount Ida on a snowy cloud
+and placed the question before him, each promising to reward him
+royally if he gave his verdict in her favor.
+
+Paris, as might have been expected, decided in favor of Aphrodite,
+who had promised him that the fairest woman living in the whole world
+should be his wife. This promise had to be kept, being given by a
+goddess, but it was the source of endless misfortune, for Paris had
+a young and lovely wife who was tenderly attached to him, while the
+fairest of living women--acknowledged as such by fame in all known
+countries--was Queen Helen of Sparta, herself the wife of another
+man.
+
+Her husband was one of the most renowned heroes of Hellas, King
+Menelaos, a son of Atreus and brother of the leader of the Greek chiefs,
+Agamemnon, King of Mycenae. It was Aphrodite, then, who inspired Paris
+with an insane desire to forsake his parents, brothers, and wife.
+It was her secret guidance which led him across the seas and through
+the dangers lurking among the hundreds of islands of the Archipelagos
+straight to the land of Lacedaemon. This is the central of the three
+peninsulas in which the Peloponnesus ends, and might be called the
+middle finger of that large hand of which Arcadia is the palm.
+
+Paris landed, with all his companions, on the shores of Lacedaemon,
+where the people received him kindly and helped him on his journey
+to Sparta, where Menelaos and Helen gave him a cordial welcome.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER II
+THE FLIGHT OF HELEN
+
+
+Aphrodite, while leading Paris to the shores of Lacedaemon, had not
+forgotten her promise, and in Sparta itself she was at work at its
+fulfilment. She inspired Queen Helen with a growing discontent and
+restlessness of spirit. Menelaos had not noticed any change in her,
+and it was with an utterly unsuspicious mind that he received the
+fatal strangers and made them welcome guests in his land and home.
+
+More than that, having heard the news from Crete that his presence
+there was desirable on account of some urgent business, he did not
+hesitate to set sail for that island, in the expectation of finding
+Paris and his companions still enjoying the hospitality of his palace
+after a short absence.
+
+This was the chance which wily Aphrodite had contrived for Paris.
+He took the hint and carried Helen away to his ship, together with
+as much treasure as they could lay hands on, and then they sailed
+for Troy. Little did he heed, in his mad desire to call the most
+beautiful woman in the world his wife, that she was already the wife
+of a hero who had received him as an honored guest in his house, and
+that he was about to destroy the peace and honor of his host.
+
+As soon as Menelaos heard of the flight of his wife, he hastened back
+to Sparta, where he found his palace deserted and his treasure-house
+robbed.
+
+Then his heart was filled with great wrath. He set out at once to
+see his brother, Agamemnon, to consult with him about what was to
+be done. Agamemnon was ruler over Mycenae, and highly respected in
+all Hellas on account of his power and riches.
+
+After the two brothers had talked over this grave affair, they
+announced to all the leaders in Hellas the great and detestable crime,
+and asked them for their assistance. All the king's chiefs of Hellas
+lent a willing ear to this demand, for in this breach of hospitality,
+committed against one of them, each felt himself personally aggrieved
+and bound to help in the punishment of what, in those times, was
+considered the most unpardonable of all crimes. Only one of the kings
+held back for awhile and needed much persuasion to join the league.
+This was Odysseus of Ithaca, who could well consider himself at the
+time the happiest of mortals, for he had lately married Penelope,
+one of the fairest and most virtuous maidens of Greece. He had an
+infant son of great beauty and promise, and he owned much land and
+countless herds of cattle, sheep, and swine. Added to that, all the
+petty nobles of the island acknowledged him as their chief.
+
+But a soothsayer, or seer, had greatly disturbed him by informing
+him that if he went to a great war he would be kept away from his
+home for the space of twenty years, and even then return to it in
+the guise of a beggar, after having suffered wrecks, captivity,
+endless wanderings, and loss of comrades.
+
+No one could doubt that Odysseus was brave, but no one could blame
+him for wishing to be excused from taking part in the war against
+Troy. Menelaos and his brother, however, would accept no excuse from
+him, as he was the wisest and craftiest of all the leaders, and when
+Odysseus finally consented to join them he set about arming and
+directing the young Greek warriors with all his heart and soul.
+
+There was another young prince whom it was absolutely necessary to
+secure, for a much venerated oracle had given it as a decree of the
+gods that Troy could never be taken without his help. This was Achilles,
+son of Peleus, king of the Myrmidons in Thessaly, and of the beauteous
+ocean nymph, Thetis. Notwithstanding his extreme youth, his father
+would not disappoint the whole country, and he let him go with those
+who came for him. But he sent along with him his adopted son, Patroklos,
+who was several years older, and to whom the boy was passionately
+attached, and also his oldest and most trusted servant, Phoenix. These
+two, the old man and the youth, he charged, as they hoped for the
+mercy of Zeus, to keep watchful guard over Achilles, whose exceedingly
+impetuous and reckless temper exposed him to many dangers which might
+be averted by a sensible and loving word spoken in time.
+
+[Illustration: THE SILVER-FOOTED THETIS RISING FROM THE WAVES]
+
+The Greeks took counsel together, and it was resolved that Menelaos
+should go in person to Troy and demand back his wife, Helen, as well
+as his treasure and a suitable apology for the wrong done to him and
+to all Hellas. He chose for his companion the cunning Odysseus. On
+their arrival in Troy, Menelaos and Odysseus presented themselves
+before Priam and demanded the return of Helen and the treasures.
+
+The king at once called his people together to deliberate upon the
+matter, and the two Greek kings bravely denounced the mean act of
+Paris. But the Trojans, stirred up by that youth, abused the
+ambassadors and drove them out of their city.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER III
+THE GREEKS SAIL FOR TROY
+
+
+The kings and chieftains of Hellas, having heard that Odysseus and
+Menelaos had been driven out of Troy, hastened to call together their
+fleets and armies at Aulis, a city of Boeotia on a ridge of rock running
+out into the sea between two little bays, each of which was a harbor
+for many ships. A hundred thousand men and a thousand ships were
+gathered there under the leadership of the celebrated and heroic
+chiefs. The commander-in-chief of the whole army was Agamemnon.
+
+Among the renowned leaders were Menelaos, the sagacious Odysseus,
+Ajax, and many others. Just as they were offering a sacrifice to the
+gods, in order to start out to the war with their good will, a great
+miracle happened. A fearful snake crept from under the altar and
+climbed a tree in which there was a sparrow's nest nearly hidden by
+the leaves. There were eight young sparrows in the nest, nine birds
+with the mother. The snake devoured the fluttering little birds,
+around which the mother circled as if overcome by grief.
+
+Then the snake darted at the mother-bird and swallowed it, when Zeus
+changed the reptile into a stone. The Greeks wondered at the sight,
+but the soothsayer, Calchas, said to them: "Why do ye wonder at this?
+The all-powerful Zeus has sent us this sign because our deeds shall
+live forever in the minds of men. Just as the snake has devoured the
+eight little sparrows and their mother, so shall the war swallow up
+the nine coming years, and in the tenth we shall overcome Troy."
+
+The ships of the Greeks lay in the bays of Aulis while the warriors
+waited impatiently to set sail. But the winds were contrary; they
+would not blow, and the boats waited there year after year; for a
+sacred hind had been slain by Agamemnon, one that belonged to the
+goddess Artemis, and it was ordered by that goddess that no wind should
+arise to take them on toward Troy until her wrath had been appeased.
+
+So Agamemnon went to Calchas, the seer, and asked his advice,
+whereupon the old prophet told him to send for his lovely young
+daughter, Iphigeneia, and offer her up on the altar as the only
+acceptable sacrifice to Artemis. When he had placed her upon the altar
+and the priest was raising his knife, the goddess took pity on
+Agamemnon and carried the girl away in a cloud, leaving a fine white
+doe instead.
+
+[Illustration: ODYSSEUS AND MENELAOS PERSUADING AGAMEMNON TO
+SACRIFICE IPHIGENEIA]
+
+And now arose a favorable wind, and the Greeks arrived safely before
+Troy. How they fought with the Trojans, how many of the heroes outlived
+the struggle, and how many fell in the battle, all this we can learn
+from an old book called the "Iliad." We shall select from it only
+those things which refer to our hero, Odysseus; and to complete the
+history of that hero we shall go to another book, called the "Odyssey."
+
+Both of these books are the work of the great poet Homer, who lived
+many years after the war with Troy. That we may understand better
+what happened later on, we must give a short account of the fall of
+Troy and of the return of Menelaos and Agamemnon to their own country.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IV
+THE FALL OF TROY
+
+
+The war lasted nine years, and in the tenth the Greeks conquered Troy,
+not in battle, but by means of a trick which had come into the mind
+of Odysseus. He told a skilful carpenter to build a wooden horse of
+gigantic size, and in it he hid the bravest Greek warriors. When he
+had done this he advised all the other Greeks to depart without leaving
+anything behind them, and so lead the Trojans to believe that they
+had given up the fight and gone home.
+
+So the Greeks burned their tents and put off to sea, while the Trojans
+from their walls watched them with great joy, thinking themselves
+well rid of an enemy. When the last ship had gone, the Trojans threw
+open the gates of their city and rushed down into the plain where
+the Greeks had had their camp, to see how the place looked.
+
+There they found the wooden horse, and one of the Greeks tied to a
+tree, who told them he was left there as a punishment, and that the
+wooden horse was an offering to the gods. The Trojans made up their
+minds to carry it into their city and give it the best place on their
+highest hill.
+
+Then Laocoon, a priest of Apollo, stepped forth, and said to them:
+"Unhappy people! what madness possesses you? Do ye think the enemy
+gone? Do ye know Odysseus so little? There are Greek warriors hidden
+in this horse, or else some other mischief is lurking there. Fear
+the Greeks even when they bring gifts."
+
+With these words, he thrust his spear into the flank of the horse,
+and the arms of the hidden enemy clashed with a loud noise. Just then
+two snakes of great size, sent by Athena, rose from the sea, and sprang
+upon Laocoon and his two sons, and, coiling around them, bit them
+to death. The Trojans, in great fear at the sight, took this as a
+sign from the gods that the horse was sacred and that they must protect
+it, and they moved it at once into their city, breaking down a part
+of their wall to get it in.
+
+Having done this, they gave themselves up to feasting and making merry,
+without the slightest thought that any evil was in store for them.
+But when night had come, and all were in a deep sleep, the ships of
+the Greeks, which had been hiding all the while behind a neighboring
+island, came back. The warriors who were concealed in the wooden horse
+sprang out and rushing wildly through the city, slew the Trojans right
+and left without mercy. From all sides came wailings and groans, and
+the flames of the burning city rose up to the sky.
+
+A deadly struggle took place between the Trojans and the Greeks. Priam
+was slain, and Paris and many other heroes. The victory was to the
+Greeks. Troy fell never to rise again, and the women and children
+were led off to become slaves to their conquerors.
+
+Thus was destroyed in one night the great and glorious city of Troy,
+all on account of the crime which Paris had committed against the
+laws of hospitality.
+
+The trials of the Greeks were not yet at an end. After their victory
+at Troy they embarked in their ships and started eagerly for their
+homes. But Zeus prepared a sad fate for them, because Ajax had
+violently dragged Cassandra, the beautiful daughter of Priam, from
+the altar of Athena and had made her his slave. Thus many of the leaders
+perished in the sea far from home, and some were cast on foreign shores
+to die.
+
+Menelaos was thrown by wind and waves on the island of Crete, and
+he lost many of the ships on the cliffs. Thence he strayed to the
+island of Cyprus, noted for its mines; and he roved through other
+lands until he came to Egypt, where he wandered about for eight years,
+when he returned to Sparta, taking Helen with him. He became
+reconciled to his wife, and they lived a quiet life far removed from
+the enchantments of the wily Aphrodite.
+
+But the saddest fate of all overtook Agamemnon, who met his death
+in his own house at the hands of his wife and brother.
+
+Agamemnon, without any accident at sea, reached his native land. Full
+of gratitude, he kissed the earth and wept tears of joy at the thought
+of meeting his wife and son.
+
+He entered his home with a glad heart, and his faithless wife came
+to meet him, but she had prepared a hot bath for him, and there he
+met his death, entangled in a net which she threw over him, for she
+had not forgotten the loss of her beautiful daughter, Iphigeneia,
+whom she believed to have been offered up as a sacrifice on the altar
+of Artemis.
+
+She was assisted in this dreadful deed by her husband's brother, who
+became ruler over the land, holding sway eight years, when Orestes,
+the son of Agamemnon, slew him and regained the kingdom.
+
+And now we come to the return of Odysseus, the wisest of the Greeks,
+who wandered to the remotest part of the earth and learned the customs
+of many people, and who suffered terrible things by land and sea.
+
+
+
+
+PART II
+THE RETURN OF ODYSSEUS TO HIS OWN COUNTRY
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER V
+ODYSSEUS ON THE ISLAND OF CALYPSO
+
+
+All the Greeks who had escaped from the destruction of Troy and had
+been spared the terrors of the sea returned to their homes. But the
+unfortunate Odysseus was delayed by the fair nymph Calypso on her
+island, where she made her home in a cool and beautiful grotto. There
+he wept and mourned, desiring to see his wife again and his native
+land. Each of the gods save one, Poseidon, god of the sea, wished
+to help him to find the way home. Odysseus had brought Poseidon's
+wrath upon himself through inflicting a terrible injury upon the
+favorite son of that deity, and for that reason the wrath of the god
+fell on him and he was wrecked. One day all the other gods had assembled
+in the hall of Zeus, on Mount Olympos, when Athena, the favorite
+daughter of Zeus and firm friend of Odysseus, knowing that her father
+in his heart was well-disposed toward the hero, began to plead for
+him in a way to excite greater pity still.
+
+"O my father, thou great king among the gods," she said, "my heart
+is troubled on account of the wise Odysseus, who lingers on an island,
+far away from home, and suffers greatly; for a nymph lives on the
+island, the daughter of great Atlas, and with sweet words she strives
+to make Odysseus forget his native land. But he bewails his fate and
+is full of sorrow, his only wish being to have a glimpse of the smoke
+of his beloved country."
+
+Zeus thereupon ordered Hermes to depart at once for the island and
+tell the nymph to send Odysseus to his home without delay. Hermes
+obeyed quickly. He bound his winged sandals to his feet, and, taking
+his golden wand in his hand, flew like a meteor over land and sea
+till he reached the island where the nymph Calypso made her abode.
+He found her within the grotto, singing sweetly while she wove a fine
+web on a golden loom.
+
+All about the grotto there was a grove of cypress-trees in which birds
+of gay colors were sporting and springs of pure water bubbling, and
+the fragrance of strange flowers filled the air. When Hermes had gazed
+upon these wonders he entered the grotto. It was bright with a blazing
+fire on a spacious hearth, and fragrant with the odor of burning cedar
+and cypress.
+
+Calypso saw him as he came in and knew him. She bade him sit down
+on a throne dazzling with jewels, and, placing a table before him
+laden with nectar and ambrosia, invited him to eat and drink. After
+he had finished his repast, Hermes told her that Zeus had sent him
+to her with the command that she should send Odysseus without delay
+to his native land. Having given this message, he disappeared, leaving
+Calypso in great grief.
+
+Odysseus in the meantime sat by the shore mourning and gazing out
+upon the sea. Calypso found him there, sitting alone, weeping and
+longing for his home. She stood by him and said: "Odysseus, my unhappy
+friend, do not waste thy life any longer in sorrow. The end of thy
+grief has come. Arise and prepare to depart for thy home. Build thee
+a raft of the trunks of trees which thou shalt hew down. I will put
+bread and water and delicate wine on board; and I will clothe thee
+in comfortable garments, and send a favorable wind that thou mayest
+safely reach thy native land."
+
+Thus spoke the lovely goddess, but Odysseus could hardly believe her,
+and said: "I fear, O goddess, that thou hast some other thought in
+thy mind, and that thou dost not wish to send me home when thou biddest
+me sail over this stormy and dangerous sea. I shall never go on to
+the raft against thy wish, and thou must swear the great oath of the
+gods that no harm shall come to me."
+
+The goddess smiled at these words, and, taking the hero by the hand,
+rejoined: "Thou art a wise man, and thy answer is well made. I will
+pledge thee a solemn oath, by the heavens and the earth, and the waters
+of the Styx, that I have no plan of evil against thee. And I advise
+thee to do as I have instructed thee, to be ready for any crisis."
+
+Speaking thus, the goddess went into the grotto and Odysseus followed
+her. When he had come into the spacious hall, he sat down on his throne
+and the nymph brought him rich food and wine. Then she took a seat
+opposite him, and her attendants brought her ambrosia and nectar,
+which she would gladly have shared with Odysseus, that he, too, might
+become an immortal.
+
+When the repast was over, Calypso narrated to him all the trials he
+would have to undergo before he could reach his native land. While
+she was relating these things the sun sank down, and darkness came
+upon the island, and all who had their abode in the grotto sought
+rest and slumber.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VI
+ODYSSEUS CONSTRUCTS A RAFT AND LEAVES THE ISLAND
+
+
+At daybreak the goddess gave Odysseus a large axe and a sharp adze,
+and led him to the heights of the island, where the largest trees
+grew. He went to work at once and cut down twenty trees, which he
+hewed into proper shape, and then tied them together with ropes which
+he himself made of bark.
+
+In this way he built a raft which was very large and strong enough
+to stand the onset of the waves. He wove a railing of willow and fitted
+it around the sides of the raft, to protect himself against the dashing
+waves; and he raised a strong mast with sails shaped to it, and tightly
+bound by cords and ropes. He filled the crevices of the raft with
+wax and pitch and attached a rudder.
+
+At the end of the fourth day his work was all done, and his little
+ship was ready to be launched. On the fifth day the beautiful goddess
+prepared the hero a bath and gave him new garments fragrant with
+perfumes. She went down to the boat with him and put on board a skin
+of dark-red wine, a larger one full of water, and a bag of dainty
+food. Then she bade Odysseus a kind farewell, and sent a gentle and
+friendly wind to waft him over the waves.
+
+Odysseus was wild with joy at the thought that he was really on his
+way home once more. He spread his sails to catch the breeze and took
+his seat at the helm, steering the vessel with great skill. He did
+not dare to take any sleep, for he had to watch the sky and stars
+constantly and use them as guides on his course. He sailed along in
+this way seventeen days. On the eighteenth he spied land in the
+distance. It was the land of the Phaeacians, lying like a dark spot
+off in the sea.
+
+Then Poseidon, who was returning from Ethiopia, saw him, and his wrath
+grew hot against the hero. He raised up his head and said to himself:
+"Alas! the gods have strangely changed their minds about Odysseus
+during my absence in Africa. Behold! in a little while he will be
+in the land of the Phaeacians, where he will find an end to his troubles.
+Nevertheless, it is in my power to chastise him."
+
+Speaking thus, Poseidon called the clouds together, and seizing his
+trident he stirred up the sea; then he set loose all the winds until
+there was a general hurricane, and he wrapped heaven and earth in
+the thick darkness of night.
+
+The mighty waves dashed over the raft, and Odysseus sank on his knees
+and trembled. With a deep groan he said: "Ah me, unhappy! Am I to
+bear more disasters? I fear that the warning of the goddess was too
+true, and that I shall be for a long time cast about on the waves
+before I reach home. With what dark clouds Zeus has shrouded the sky!
+The storm grows wild. What terrible waves are these! Helplessly I
+must perish. Happy the Greeks who fell before Troy, fighting for their
+country! Would that I, too, had met death the day when the Trojans
+hurled their spears at me as they strove to take the body of Achilles.
+If I had died then, the Greeks would have buried me with great honors.
+Now I shall die an inglorious death."
+
+As he spoke a huge wave struck the raft with such terrible force that
+it whirled it around and overturned it. The helm was wrung from his
+hand and he fell into the angry breakers. The mast was snapped in
+two and the ropes and sails flew off into the sea.
+
+Odysseus was under water a long time, striving in vain to come to
+the surface. Finally he rose, spitting the bitter brine out of his
+mouth. Although he was in such a desperate plight, his mind was on
+the raft. Battling bravely with the waves he reached it, and springing
+on board sat down in the middle of it. Thus he escaped death.
+
+The angry waves tossed him hither and thither as the wind scatters
+the leaves over a field. Then Ino, the daughter of Cadmus, saw him
+and took pity on him. She took the form of a bird, and, perching on
+his raft, she said to him: "O, luckless man! why is Poseidon so angry
+with thee? Fear nothing, however; he cannot take thy life. Obey me
+and thou shalt not suffer much longer. Lay aside thy clothes, leave
+the raft to the mercy of the winds and waves, and swim to the land.
+Take my veil and wind it about thy breast, and thou shalt not have
+anything to fear. As soon as thou hast reached the land, take it off
+and throw it back into the sea. Then hurry away inland."
+
+Odysseus hesitated to follow Ino's advice, fearing some treachery.
+But Poseidon sent a huge wave which struck him and scattered the raft
+as if it were dry chaff. Then Odysseus at once got astride of the
+swimming timber. He bound the veil around his breast and bravely
+plunged into the boiling waters.
+
+Poseidon saw him, and shaking his head he said: "I verily believe
+thou wilt come out alive from the sea. But the sea has had thee long
+enough, so that thou wilt know its power hereafter and fear it." Saying
+this he lashed up his horses and drove off.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VII
+ODYSSEUS IS SAVED ON THE ISLAND OF SCHERIA
+
+
+Athena, the daughter of Zeus, seeing Odysseus struggling through the
+waves, pitied him, and bade the winds become quiet. Two days and two
+nights Odysseus floated about, but on the third the wind calmed down
+and the sea became smooth.
+
+In a short time he found himself near land once more. But the shore
+was wild and full of sharp rocks and high cliffs. He could see no
+place on which to set foot, and he grew downhearted. His knees gave
+way, and, groaning deeply, he cried out: "O, luckless one! In vain
+have I braved the dangers of the sea to escape death. Now all hope
+has abandoned me, since there is no way for me to get out of the water.
+I fear that when I try to approach the land the waves will throw me
+against the cliffs, and should I try to find a safe landing-place
+by swimming, the surf may carry me back into the wild sea, where some
+sea-monster will swallow me up. Whatever I may do, I see no help for
+me."
+
+While he pondered over these things a huge wave cast him on the foamy
+shore. His bones were nearly broken, and he lay exhausted until the
+wave returned, when he was hurled again with great force back into
+the sea. Now the unfortunate wanderer took to swimming as his last
+resort, and reached the mouth of a river, where he was able to land.
+
+Too tired to breathe or speak, he sank down in a swoon. His knees
+and arms trembled, and his whole body was bruised and swollen. When
+his senses returned he rose and untied the veil that Ino had given
+him and cast it back into the sea. Then he knelt down and kissed the
+earth, and moved to a sheltered spot where a wild and a tame olive-tree
+were standing close together, whose branches had mingled with one
+another, and there he found a safe hiding-place.
+
+Then the godlike Odysseus lay down on a bed of dry leaves, covering
+himself up as one does an ember, lest it should go out. Athena came
+and poured sweet sleep over his eyes, that he might find quiet rest
+after all his toils.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VIII
+NAUSICAA IS SENT TO THE RIVER BY ATHENA
+
+
+While Odysseus lay in a deep sleep, the goddess Athena went to the
+royal dwelling of the king of the Phaeacians, Alkinoos, in order to
+hasten the return of Odysseus to his native land. She entered the
+house, where she found Nausicaa, the king's daughter, sleeping in
+her beautiful chamber. Near her lay two maids who served her.
+
+Athena came as softly as a breath of air, and caused the maiden to
+dream that her marriage-day was near and that it was her duty to arise
+and hasten to the place by the river where they washed their clothing.
+In her dream the princess seemed to hear Athena say: "Nausicaa, why
+art thou so slothful? Thy beautiful robes lie neglected and thy
+wedding-day is at hand, on which thou surely shouldst wear garments
+of dazzling whiteness, and thou shouldst give such garments to those
+maidens who lead thee forth to thy bridegroom. Therefore, as soon
+as day breaks thou must ask thy father to give thee a pair of mules,
+and we will hasten to the washing-place down by the river."
+
+At the first dawn of day Nausicaa went in haste to her father and
+mother to tell them of her dream. She found them in their splendid
+hall. Her mother sat with her maidens spinning, and the king stood
+on the threshold, just going forth to meet his chiefs in council.
+The princess approached her father and said: "Dearest father, I pray
+that thou wilt give me two mules and a wagon, that I may go with my
+maids to the river and take all the clothes that need washing, for
+it becomes the king and his sons to wear clean garments when they
+go to the council of the chiefs. Thou hast five sons, three of whom
+are youths not wedded, and they should be provided with fresh robes;
+they will need them in the dance."
+
+The king smiled, for he saw what was in her mind, and he ordered the
+mules. Then his beautiful daughter brought from the linen-room the
+soiled garments and put them on the wagon, while the queen prepared
+a goodly lunch of cold meat and bread and a skin of sweet wine.
+
+Nausicaa further received from her mother a bottle of fragrant oil
+with which to anoint herself after the washing. Then she mounted the
+wagon, seized the whip and reins, and drove out of the city, the
+maidens of her train following her on foot.
+
+When they came to the place where the river was flowing bright and
+clear, they unhitched the mules and let them browse along the bank.
+Then they took their garments down from the wagon and tossed them
+into the marble vats which they had filled with the limpid water of
+the stream. When they had washed them clean they spread them on the
+white pebbles to dry. Having finished the task, they took a bath and
+anointed themselves with oil. Then they sat down on the shore and
+ate their lunch.
+
+The repast over, they began to play ball. First the white-armed
+Nausicaa threw the ball. She looked as tall and royal among her maids
+as did Artemis, the daughter of Zeus, among her nymphs.
+
+Nausicaa sang a song as they frolicked on the sand.
+
+When it was time to go home they put the clean garments upon the wagon
+and harnessed up the mules. Just as they started, Nausicaa once more
+threw the ball to one of the maidens, who failed to catch it. The
+ball rebounded from the rocks and fell into the river, at which the
+girls raised such a shout that Odysseus, who was sleeping close by,
+awoke.
+
+He opened his eyes and sat up, saying to himself: "Woe is me! Have
+I reached a country where people dwell? Are they wild and inhospitable,
+or friendly to the stranger and god-fearing? It seems to me I heard
+cries of women. Perhaps they were those of the nymphs who inhabit
+the mountain heights, the springs of rivers, and the green meadows,
+or those of people who live near by. But I will see who they are."
+
+So Odysseus clothed himself as best he could, by winding slender
+branches covered with leaves about him, and left the thicket where
+he was hidden. He went in the direction of the voices, stalking along
+like a great lion. When the girls saw him they shrieked and scattered
+in every direction. Nausicaa alone stood her ground, for Athena gave
+her courage. When Odysseus saw her he wondered which would be the
+better, to throw himself at the feet of the maiden and beg her to
+give him some clothes and to show him the way to the city, or to speak
+to her with more formality.
+
+It seemed better to him to remain at a distance, and so he addressed
+her gently, saying: "O queen, I know not whether thou art a goddess
+or a woman. If thou art a goddess, I should take thee to be Artemis,
+because thou art so tall and graceful. If, however, thou art a mortal,
+thrice happy thy father and honored mother. Greatly must they rejoice
+when they see their beautiful child in the choral dance. But he will
+be the happiest who shall win thee for a bride.
+
+"I once saw a young palm-tree growing up beside Apollo's altar in
+the island of Delos. It was the most beautiful tree the earth ever
+produced, and I gazed upon it with wonder and reverence. So am I amazed
+at thy beauty, and I fear to approach thee and throw myself as a
+suppliant at thy feet, although I am in sore distress, for great
+misfortunes have befallen me.
+
+"It was only last night that I escaped from the sea. On my way from
+Calypso's isle I was driven about for twenty days by the angry waves
+in a violent storm. Now some god has cast me on this shore to make
+me undergo new trials, for I do not believe my sufferings have come
+to an end. Have pity on me, O queen, because thou art the first human
+being I have met after so many misfortunes.
+
+"I do not know one person in this country. Show me thy city, I pray,
+and give me an old robe to wear, no matter how coarse and poor, and
+may the gods bestow all blessings upon thee."
+
+Nausicaa looked at Odysseus in pity and answered: "Stranger, thou
+dost not seem to me to be a man of mean birth or breeding, and thou
+art surely in distress. But it is Zeus who distributes gifts to mortals,
+both the good and the evil things of life, and thou must submit to
+his will with patience.
+
+"Since thou hast come into our land devoid of all things, even garments,
+and art helpless, I will give thee clothing and tell thee the way
+to the city. And I will tell thee about the people living in it, for
+I am the daughter of the king, Alkinoos, who reigns over this island."
+When Nausicaa had spoken thus to Odysseus, she turned to her maids
+and commanded them not to flee from the wanderer, but to bring him
+food and drink, since Zeus sent the poor and the stranger to be cared
+for.
+
+And she told them to lead him to some lonely spot by the side of the
+river, where he might bathe at his ease. So the maids came back and
+led the hero to a sheltered place and laid a cloak and tunic on the
+sand, and the bottle of oil which the queen had given Nausicaa, that
+Odysseus might anoint and clothe himself after his bath; then they
+ran back to the princess.
+
+Odysseus bathed in the fresh water of the river and washed the salt
+sea-foam from his hair, and when the bath was over he put on the robes
+that Nausicaa had sent. Athena shed a halo of beauty over him and
+caused him to look taller and stronger than before.
+
+As he walked along the beach to rejoin the maidens, they admired his
+noble and kingly bearing, and Nausicaa said to her maids: "Surely
+this man does not come among our godlike brothers against the will
+of the gods. I thought him rough and homely, but now he seems like
+one of the immortals. I would that I might call a man like him my
+husband. Make haste to give him food and wine, for he has fasted a
+long time."
+
+The maids hastened to obey. They looked over what was left of the
+abundant lunch and bade Odysseus eat and drink, which he was glad
+to do. The princess then yoked up the mules and they started for home.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IX
+ODYSSEUS ARRIVES AT THE PALACE OF ALKINOOS
+
+
+After Nausicaa had mounted to her seat on the cart, she said to
+Odysseus: "Get ready now, stranger, and we will lead thee to my
+father's palace, where thou wilt meet the chiefs of the Phaeacians.
+If thou art wise, take well to heart what I shall say to thee. As
+long as we are at a good distance from the city there is no harm in
+going along with us. Just follow close to the wagon with my maids.
+
+"But when we come near to the town thou must go more slowly and tarry
+behind a little, till we have reached my father's hall, because I
+dread the gossip of the baser sort of people whom we may meet. After
+thou hast seen us enter the city, then thou mayest enter it also and
+inquire the way to the king's palace. It is very beautiful. Thou mayest
+easily find it by thyself, for there is no other house in the city
+as large as ours.
+
+"Enter at once and find my mother and sue to her for protection and
+help, that thou mayest reach thy native land and thy dear ones again."
+
+Having spoken these words, Nausicaa touched the mules with her long
+whip and they quickly left the river, wending their way toward the
+city. They reached it at sunset, but Odysseus sat down in the sacred
+grove of Athena, outside of the city to wait, and prayed to the goddess
+that he might receive pity from the people of Phaeacia.
+
+While he prayed, the damsels went on and soon reached the king's palace.
+Nausicaa's brothers came out and welcomed them, and unhitched the
+mules. When Odysseus had given them time to get home, he arose and
+found his way to the town. He had hardly entered it when Athena, in
+the form of a young girl carrying a pitcher of water, met him.
+
+"My daughter," Odysseus said to her, "canst thou show me the way to
+the king's palace? I am a stranger, and here for the first time."
+Athena answered him: "With pleasure, stranger; the king is our
+neighbor. Follow me, and I will lead thee thither. But on the way
+do not greet anyone or ask questions, for the people here are not
+fond of those who come from other lands."
+
+Thus spoke Athena and pursued her way with Odysseus following her.
+She threw a veil of darkness over the hero to hide him from rude gazers.
+Odysseus beheld the beautiful port with astonishment--the large
+ships, the great market-place, and the high walls of the city.
+
+When they reached the palace, the girl stopped and said: "This is
+the house of the king. Go in without any fear, for they love brave
+men, even when they come from afar. The first thing to do is to find
+the queen, whose name is Arete.
+
+"She is greatly honored by the king, and all the people treat her
+as if she were a goddess, on account of her gentleness and virtue.
+In case the queen looks upon thee with favor, thou mayest be sure
+of safely reaching home."
+
+Having spoken these words, the goddess took a friendly leave of the
+hero, and he entered the outer hall of Alkinoos, where he was
+bewildered by the splendor. The walls were of brass, the doors of
+gold, and the thresholds and lintels of pure silver. On each side
+of the main entrance gold and silver dogs stood guard. They were
+endowed with life and were immortal, the work and gift of the divine
+Hephaestus.
+
+There were two rows of splendid seats in the large dining-hall. They
+were covered with costly mats, and the Phaeacian leaders were wont
+to sit there and enjoy themselves. Golden statues of boys with lighted
+torches in their hands stood on beautiful pedestals and spread light
+over the merry banquets. There were fifty maid-servants in the palace.
+Some of them were grinding corn in the mill. Some spent their time
+in spinning and weaving, for as the men were renowned sailors, the
+women also were famous for making fine cloth.
+
+There was a large orchard all around the palace, surrounded by a thick
+hedge. In the orchard there was a great variety of fruit-trees--pear,
+apple, pomegranate, olive, and fig. The trees were never bare of fruit,
+either in summer or in winter, for an ever-blowing west wind created
+such a mild climate that the trees were constantly blooming and
+ripening their fruit.
+
+There was to be seen a tree full of blossoms, while another bent down
+under the load of ripe fruit. Thus it was with the grape-vines in
+the vineyard close to the orchard. Some were blooming, others had
+only begun to form fruit-buds, while some were loaded with ripe
+clusters ready for the wine-press. At the end of the orchard there
+was a magnificent flower-garden, in which the most fragrant flowers
+were blooming. Two springs also bubbled from the ground. One watered
+the orchard, and the other ran to the very door of the palace, and
+all the people filled their pitchers there. Such were the gifts
+Alkinoos had received from the gods.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER X
+ODYSSEUS IN THE HALLS OF ALKINOOS
+
+
+After Odysseus had contemplated these wonders to his heart's content,
+he entered the main hall. There he found the leaders of the Phaeacians
+bringing offerings of wine to Hermes, as the hour of sleep had arrived,
+and this was always their last ceremony before seeking slumber. No
+one saw Odysseus as he crossed the spacious room and came close to
+the king and queen, for he was still concealed in the thick mist which
+Athena had thrown round him. Suddenly the cloud vanished, and Odysseus
+threw himself at the feet of Arete, and raised his voice in
+supplication.
+
+"Arete," he prayed, "I have come to thy husband and to thy feet through
+many hardships and sorrows. May the gods give thee a long and happy
+life. For many years I have been a wanderer from home and all I love.
+I beg that thou wilt give me a guide and send me to my own land."
+
+When Odysseus had spoken these words he sat down amidst the ashes,
+close to the fire, and all the guests grew silent and looked at him
+with wonder. Then the oldest of the chiefs arose and said: "Alkinoos,
+this is not a royal seat for a stranger, among the cinders of the
+hearth. I pray thee, raise him up and place him on a throne, and order
+the heralds to fill a cup with wine, that we may pour a libation to
+Zeus, the protector of suppliants, and bid the guest welcome to our
+good cheer."
+
+Then Alkinoos arose and took Odysseus by the hand. He led him to a
+splendid throne but little lower than his own, while the herald placed
+a table before him loaded with dainty food. When Odysseus had eaten
+and drunk, the attendants filled the cups to pour libations in honor
+of Zeus, and Alkinoos said to them: "Listen, ye leaders and chiefs
+of the Phaeacians. To-morrow we shall greet the stranger in our palace
+with honors and offer a great sacrifice to the gods. And then we will
+consider the best way of sending him home. But if we should find that
+he is a god instead of a mortal, we will do what seems best, for the
+gods do sometimes visit us in human shape."
+
+Then said Odysseus: "Nay, Alkinoos, I am not a god, nor like the gods
+in form or looks. I am only a wanderer, and I could tell of fearful
+sorrows; and I would willingly die if I could only see my home once
+more."
+
+The guests all greeted Odysseus with approving words, and promised
+to aid him. Then they rose, and each man went to his own home.
+
+Odysseus remained in the hall with Arete and Alkinoos. As they
+conversed, the queen noticed the garments of Odysseus, because she
+had woven them herself, and she said to him: "Stranger, who art thou,
+and from what land? Didst thou not say thou hadst come here after
+many wanderings and voyages on the stormy sea? Who gave thee garments
+of my weaving?"
+
+Odysseus answered her: "It would not be easy, gracious queen, to tell
+about all my hardships and sufferings. Yet I will do thy bidding.
+I was shipwrecked long since, and thrown upon an island far out in
+the sea, where Calypso, the daughter of Atlas, lives. She cared for
+me most kindly, and would have made me, like herself, an immortal,
+but I chose instead the hope of seeing my own native land.
+
+"The goddess detained me seven long years on her island before she
+bade me start for home. I built a raft, which she stored with food,
+and she sent a pleasant breeze to carry me across the waters. But
+Poseidon stirred the winds and waves against me, and I was thrown
+upon the shores of this island, near the lavers, where thy daughter
+and her maids went to wash the household linen. There the princess
+found me, and supplied me with food and the garments I have on."
+
+"One duty my daughter left undone," Alkinoos said. "She should have
+brought thee home with her." "Do not blame her, I entreat," replied
+Odysseus, "for she bade me come with her maids, but I lingered in
+a grove to offer a prayer to Athena." When Alkinoos had heard this
+tale from Odysseus, he promised once more to give him a ship and
+sailors to escort him home.
+
+Meanwhile the queen bade her servants prepare a bed for the hero out
+on the portico, and they covered a couch with shaggy rugs and purple
+tapestries, where he could rest. With a grateful heart Odysseus arose,
+and, thanking the king for his generous hospitality, sought the bed,
+where he gave himself to happy dreams.
+
+Odysseus rose early the next morning and went with Alkinoos to the
+market-place, close to the sea, where all the Phaeacians had assembled.
+The people gazed with admiration at their stranger-guest, for Athena
+lent him greater dignity and beauty, and she went among the crowds,
+moving their hearts to sympathy with him.
+
+Alkinoos then addressed the assembled multitude: "Hear me, ye chiefs
+of the Phaeacians," he said. "This stranger has come to our land after
+many wanderings and adventures. And he asks me to send him back to
+his own country. Let us fit out a ship for him quickly and launch
+it, and give him fifty-two young men from among our best sailors,
+who shall get everything ready for the long journey.
+
+"While they are doing this the stranger shall come to my halls with
+the chiefs and princes, where we will make a great banquet. Summon
+also the bard, Demodokos, that he may enliven the festival with his
+harp and songs."
+
+Having spoken, Alkinoos rose and led his guest back to the palace,
+the princes following him. Fifty-two youths were soon chosen from
+among the best seamen, and they launched a ship speedily and went
+up to the royal palace.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XI
+THE BANQUET IN HONOR OF ODYSSEUS
+
+
+Alkinoos now ordered a sumptuous feast in honor of his guest. When
+the table was spread, the herald who had gone for Demodokos came in
+leading the bard, who was blind. The gods had deprived him of sight,
+but had bestowed upon him the gift of song. They gave him a seat on
+a silver throne, amid the guests, and hung his harp against a lofty
+pillar, close above his head, where he could easily reach it.
+
+When all had eaten and drunk as much as they desired, Demodokos took
+his lyre and began to sing about the heroes of Troy. It was a song
+whose fame had reached over the whole world, the story of a friendly
+strife between Achilles and Odysseus before Troy, in which Achilles
+held that Troy would fall by force, but Odysseus maintained that it
+would come to an end through the cunning of a few brave Greeks.
+
+All the guests enjoyed listening to the thrilling song, but Odysseus
+was deeply touched, and tears fell from his eyes. He brushed them
+away stealthily, so that no one should observe them, and drew a large
+purple veil over his face until the song was finished, when he put
+it away and took a goblet of wine, which he poured out on the ground
+as a libation to the gods.
+
+Again the minstrel took his harp and sang, and again Odysseus wept.
+Alkinoos noticed that the song of Demodokos moved Odysseus to tears,
+and thought it might be well to stay the music awhile and begin the
+games, that the stranger might witness the athletic skill of the
+Phaeacians. All the princes instantly arose and walked down to the
+market-place, the king leading and the people following.
+
+When the chiefs had taken their seats a great number of young men
+hastened forward to begin the games. Some of them darted over the
+plain in a foot-race, raising a cloud of dust. Others strove with
+all their might in wrestling-matches, while some threw the quoit or
+played at boxing and leaping. After they had enjoyed looking at the
+games, Laodamas, a son of Alkinoos, said to his friends: "Let us ask
+the stranger to take part in the games. His strong arms and legs and
+powerful neck show that he is no weakling. Nor has he lost his youthful
+vigor after all his hardships, although nothing tires a man so much
+as being tossed about on the sea."
+
+Then the friends of Laodamas advised him to challenge Odysseus to
+take part in the games; and this seemed right to the prince, so he
+said to him: "Father, I think thou must be skilful in these games.
+Let us see thee try them. We will not delay thee long. Thy ship is
+ready for thee on the sea, and the crew is there, waiting. But there
+is no greater glory or pleasure for a man than to excel in swiftness
+of foot and strength of muscle."
+
+Odysseus answered him: "Why dost thou urge me, O Laodamas? How can
+I take part in the games or find any pleasure in them after all that
+I have suffered? Here I sit, a suppliant, praying to be sent back
+to my wife and home." Then Euryalos scoffed at him, saying: "Thou
+art right, stranger, for thy countenance shows thou art anything but
+an athlete.
+
+"Methinks thou art the owner of some merchant-vessel. Thou art a
+trader, whose head is full of bargains. Such men can take heed of
+nothing except how to increase wealth."
+
+These mocking words vexed Odysseus, and he retorted: "My friend, thou
+dost not speak like a man of good mind. The gods do not bestow their
+gifts equally on all men. To thee they have given great beauty, but
+they have denied thee wit. Thy words carry no weight. Learn, then,
+that I am not unskilled in the games. When I was young and strong
+I was one of the best athletes. But even now, after all my shipwrecks
+and hardships, I will strive with thee, for thy words are offensive
+and challenge me to the proof."
+
+Having said this, Odysseus seized a much larger and heavier quoit
+than the Phaeacian prince could use, and swinging it in his powerful
+hand he hurled it forth. The stone whirred through the air and fell
+to the ground away beyond the marks of the other disks. Then Athena
+took the form of a Phaeacian and set a mark where the quoit fell,
+and exclaimed as she did so: "Stranger, even a blind man could easily
+find thy mark, for it is far beyond the others. Sit down in peace
+and do not fear that anybody else can throw so far." Odysseus was
+pleased when he heard these friendly words. With a light heart he
+said to the Phaeacian youths: "Reach my mark, if you can, young men,
+and I will send a stone farther yet. But if you cannot reach it, and
+prefer a match at boxing or wrestling or foot-race, come forth. I
+am ready to try any of the games with you. I can throw a spear farther
+than any of you can shoot an arrow. I fear nothing unless it may be
+the foot-race, for I have lost my strength with want of food and being
+tossed by the waves."
+
+He ended, and King Alkinoos stepped forward, for the young men were
+all silent. "Stranger," he said, "thou art our dearly loved guest,
+and no one can doubt thy bravery. We do not boast that we are fine
+boxers or wrestlers. We excel in the dance and are unsurpassed in
+sailing ships. Come, then, young men, show your skill in dancing,
+that our guest may tell his people when he reaches his home how much
+we outdo all others in that art. And let a herald hasten to the palace
+and bring the lyre of Demodokos, which has been left there."
+
+The young men arranged themselves in two rows on the polished floors
+and began the dance, while the minstrel, standing in their midst,
+played on the lyre and sang most sweetly. Odysseus looked on and
+greatly admired the swift and rhythmical movements of their feet.
+All danced very well; but two of the sons of the king came out and
+danced alone, for none of the others equalled them. One of them held
+a golden ball in his hand, and bending backward threw it so high that
+it seemed to touch the clouds. The other sprang up and caught it easily
+before it touched the ground.
+
+They both danced, going through intricate and rhythmical figures,
+while the other young men stood around in a circle and clapped their
+hands, keeping time. Then Odysseus said to Alkinoos: "Truly, no one
+excels the Phaeacian princes in dancing. I see the twinkling of their
+feet with amazement."
+
+These words pleased Alkinoos greatly, and he said to his people:
+"Listen, my chiefs, for our guest seems to be a wise man. It becomes
+us now to bestow upon him the gifts of hospitality. In this land there
+are twelve kings. I am the thirteenth. Let each one of us bring a
+fine cloak, and a tunic, and a talent of gold, that our guest may
+see them before he partakes of the evening banquet. And let Euryalos,
+who spoke such scoffing words to him, try to win back his friendship
+and bring a costly gift." All the chiefs approved the words of King
+Alkinoos, and each one sent a servant to his house to bring a valuable
+present.
+
+Euryalos cheerfully obeyed the king. He brought a brass sword with
+a silver hilt to Odysseus, and said: "My father, if I have uttered
+any offensive word to thee, may the winds scatter all remembrance
+of it. May the gods grant thee a speedy return to thy country, where
+thou shalt see thy wife and friends from whom thou hast so long been
+separated."
+
+Odysseus answered: "Hail to thee, also, my friend! May the gods give
+thee all that there is good, and may no need of this sword ever come
+to thee." Odysseus took the sword and threw it across his shoulders.
+
+The sun had set, and the servants carried the gifts to the royal palace,
+where the queen took care of them. King Alkinoos led the way to the
+palace, his guest at his side and the princes following. When they
+had taken their seats on high thrones, the king told his wife to lay
+the royal presents in a chest, adding a much richer cloak and tunic
+than anyone else had given as a gift from himself.
+
+Arete did as her husband wished, and placed a beautiful cup of gold
+also in the chest, and led Odysseus up to look at the presents. Then
+she taught him how to lock the chest and unlock it, and her maids
+called him to a warm bath, after which he anointed himself with
+fragrant oil and put on fresh garments.
+
+While he was wending his way to the men who sat before their wine,
+he met Nausicaa in her goddess-like beauty, standing near a pillar.
+"Stranger, farewell," she said. "I wish thee joy and a safe return
+to thy native land. Do not forget that I was the first to befriend
+thee in the land of the Phaeacians."
+
+Odysseus answered: "May the gods be as sure to favor my return to
+my home as I shall be to make a prayer daily in thy behalf, fair maiden,
+who hath saved my life." Then Odysseus entered the great hall and
+took his place at the feast.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XII
+ODYSSEUS RELATES HIS ADVENTURES
+
+
+When they had all eaten and drunk to their hearts' content, the hero
+begged Demodokos to sing about the invention of the wooden horse with
+which Odysseus had artfully tricked the Trojans to their own
+destruction.
+
+The minstrel felt the inspiration of the song, and began where the
+Greeks threw firebrands into their own tents and sailed away from
+Troy, pretending that they had given up the war.
+
+He told how the Trojans wondered what to do with the huge wooden horse
+which the enemy had left in their city, whether to hew it to pieces
+and burn it, or to drag it to the edge of a high rock and throw it
+over, or whether to spare it as an act of reverence to the gods. This
+last was done, and in the night Odysseus and his men came out of the
+great wooden trap and set fire to the city while the men of Troy slept.
+
+As Demodokos sang, tears rolled down the cheeks of Odysseus. but no
+one noticed his weeping except the king, who said: "It is better to
+stop the song of Demodokos, as it does not delight us all. Ever since
+the bard began to sing, our guest has been weeping. He carries some
+great trouble in his heart. Let the song cease, and let us all make
+merry. Let no grief mar our banquet. And, honored stranger, tell us
+the name of thy father, and the city which is thy home. Our seamen
+shall take thee safely to thine own land, although there is a prophecy
+that one of our good ships shall be changed into a high rock, to stand
+forever in front of our city, if we show such courtesies to strangers.
+
+"Tell us truly who thou art and whither thou hast roamed, what tribes
+of men thou hast seen, and why thou dost weep when the minstrel sings
+of Troy. Didst thou lose a noble kinsman there, or a dear friend?
+For a friend is often dearer than a brother." Odysseus replied: "In
+truth, O king, it is a pleasant thing to listen to a bard like Demodokos,
+for his voice is as sweet as the voice of a god.
+
+"And I cannot think of anything more delightful than the joy of a
+contented people listening to a great poet and singer while seated
+at a feast in a royal hall. But I pine to be at home, and I will declare
+my name and tell the story of my sufferings.
+
+"I am the chieftain Odysseus, son of Laertes, and widely known to
+fame. I dwell in sunny Ithaca, whose high mountains are seen from
+afar, covered with rustling trees. Around it are many smaller islands,
+full of people. Ithaca has low shores on the east. It is a rugged
+island, but it is the sweetest land on earth, and has a noble race
+of mortals. When the Trojan war was at an end, I started for home
+with my twelve ships, but a contrary wind drove us to Ismaros, the
+city of the Kikonians.
+
+"We captured it and put the inhabitants to the sword. Then I exhorted
+my comrades to fly, but, like madmen, they remained on the sea-shore.
+Then they slaughtered a large number of sheep and oxen and made a
+feast. The Kikonians called on their strong neighbors to come and
+help them, and they came in swarms with their brazen spears. They
+fell upon our men and killed six of them from each ship, and drove
+the rest back to their boats.
+
+"Brisk handling of our oars soon carried us out into the sea, but
+Jove sent a hurricane that tore our sails and split our masts, so
+that our sailors drew them into the ships in fear. Two days and nights
+we lay helpless in our boats, worn out with fear and grief, but the
+third day the sun shone on us again, and we raised the masts and sails
+to take the breeze, hoping to reach our own land."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIII
+THE LOTUS-EATERS AND THE CYCLOPS
+
+
+"We sailed onward in a westerly direction, heading for the Grecian
+shore, and thought our trials would soon be at an end. But in this
+we were disappointed, for when we were about to round the cape at
+the southern point of Greece, we met an evil wind which always blows
+there, and it drove us far to the east, beyond the island of Cythera.
+
+"Nine days and nine nights we were driven about on the sea by the
+violent storm, and on the tenth we reached the land of the Lotus-eaters.
+These men eat flowers that look like water-lilies, and they have no
+other food. We landed on the shore of the mainland, and my comrades
+took their evening meal close to the boats.
+
+"When our hunger was satisfied, I sent out two of the best men to
+explore the country about and find out what sort of people the
+Lotus-eaters were. I sent a herald with them, whom they might send
+back with the news.
+
+"They soon found themselves among the Lotus-eaters, who were gentle
+and friendly, and gave them the lotus plant to eat. This food is
+pleasant to the taste, but dangerous; for anyone who eats of it loses
+all desire to return to his own home. He forgets his cares and troubles,
+but also his friends.
+
+"As soon as my comrades had eaten of the lotus, they became attached
+to the Lotus-eaters, and desired to remain with them. They wept
+bitterly when I commanded them to return to the ships, and I was
+obliged to force them to go.
+
+"I bound them down to the benches in the ships, and the whole company
+went on board in haste lest they should never think of their homes
+again. Each man bent to his oars, and the waves were soon white with
+the beating of the ships against them as we sailed with all haste
+in the direction of our own land.
+
+"We sailed about on unknown seas and with sorrowing hearts until we
+came to the land of the Cyclops. They are a wild people who have no
+laws. They never plough the fields nor plant them, for everything
+grows of its own accord--wheat, and barley, and the vine. The grapes
+yield good wine. The Cyclops do not come together in a friendly way,
+but live in caves near the mountain tops, each one in his own den.
+They do not care much for one another, and each rules his wife and
+children as he likes.
+
+"There is a little woody island lying at the entrance to the land
+of the Cyclops, on which swarm numberless wild goats, never disturbed
+by human beings, for the Cyclops have no ships to take them over.
+This island is very fertile, but there are no sheep to eat the grass
+and no people to plough the fields. The goats are the only inhabitants.
+The island has a harbor which is safe, and the ships that enter it
+have no need of anchors or fastenings.
+
+"In the midst of the harbor there is a cliff, from which bubbles forth
+a spring of excellent water, and poplar-trees grow all around it.
+The soil is so rich it might bear all kinds of fruit, if there were
+anyone to plant them. There are beautiful meadows all along the coast,
+which are gay with yellow fruit and pink blossoms.
+
+"We were shaping our course toward this island, and a good breeze
+brought us there on a dark night. The moon did not shine and none
+of the crew saw the land until we were upon the shore. We lowered
+our sails and rested there until morning. When daylight appeared we
+beheld with wonder the island where the wild goats abounded. My
+comrades walked around, admiring the beauty of the place, while the
+nymphs, daughters of Zeus, roused the goats that they might give us
+milk. We took our bows and arrows from the ships immediately and,
+forming three hunting-parties, killed a great number of the nimble
+creatures. Each of my twelve ships received nine goats as its share,
+but mine received ten. The remainder of the day we passed in eating
+and drinking."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIV
+THE CAVE OF THE CYCLOPS
+
+
+"The next day I started with twelve men, the crew of my own ship,
+to find out what kind of men inhabited the country opposite us, leaving
+all the other boats and their men on the island. When we sailed up
+to the coast of the mainland, we heard the voices of giants, and the
+bleating of their sheep and goats. And we saw a cave with a high roof,
+over whose entrance grew laurel shrubs, and many cattle, sheep, and
+goats were lying around at rest. We found an enclosure of rough stone
+in the form of a court, with tall pines and leafy oaks at the mouth
+of the cave.
+
+"The largest giant of all the race of Cyclops dwelt there and took
+care of his cattle all alone. Usually he spent his time prowling all
+by himself around the mountains. He had nothing to do with his
+neighbors, but led a solitary life, plotting wicked deeds. He looked
+more like a huge mountain top, with shaggy overhanging forests,
+towering above other mountains, than a human being.
+
+"We were soon inside the cave, but we did not find the owner at home.
+We had carried with us a wine-skin full of wine which a priest of
+Apollo had given us. The wine was very fragrant and so pleasant that
+no one who had once tasted it, could let it alone. We had taken along
+a basket of food also, for fear of meeting with men of great strength
+and no sense of the courtesy due to strangers.
+
+"As we looked around the cave we wondered at what we saw. There were
+baskets all about heaped with cheeses, and pens of lambs separated
+into three folds, the older in one pen, the younger in another, and
+the youngest in a third. And there were pails full of whey, and buckets
+of milk. My companions ate as much of the cheese as they liked, after
+which they begged to drive all the lambs and kids down to the ship.
+
+"But I would not allow this. It was my wish to stay there and see
+the cave-dweller and find out what kind of a man he was. I thought
+he would give me a handsome present, according to the laws of
+hospitality. It was cold in the cave, so we lit a fire and sat down
+to wait for the owner to arrive.
+
+"He came toward evening, carrying a load of wood on his back, which
+he threw down with such a crash that my men ran with terror into the
+corners of the cave. The giant drove all such sheep and goats as would
+give him milk into the cave, leaving the others in the outside court,
+and then closed up the entrance with a rock so large that twenty-four
+four-wheeled wagons could not have moved it. Having done this, he
+sat down and milked the sheep and goats and gave to each its young
+one.
+
+"Next, he curdled half of the milk and put the curd into woven baskets,
+but he kept the other half for his evening meal. When he had ended
+this work he lit a fire, and seeing the strangers he began to ask
+them questions, to find out who they were. His voice was deep and
+frightful, like the rumbling of a volcano, and our hearts trembled,
+but I found words to answer him: 'We are Greeks, and come from Troy.
+It was our intention to return home, but contrary winds have driven
+us on this shore.
+
+"'We belong to the army of Agamemnon, whose fame is very great because
+he has overcome a strong city and conquered many nations. But now
+we throw ourselves at thy feet and pray that thou wilt receive us
+as guests, or else give us the gifts that are due to strangers, lest
+the gods avenge us.'
+
+"Having said this, I stopped, but the Cyclops told us that we were
+fools to believe in the gods. 'The Cyclops,' he said, 'care nothing
+for the gods. We are better than they are. If I spare thee it will
+be of my own free will, and not for fear of the gods. But where are
+thy ships? Are they near here or far off?' This he said hoping to
+deceive us, but I saw through his trick, and replied: 'The storm has
+thrown our ships upon the cliffs and broken them to pieces, and we
+had to swim for our lives.'
+
+"The cruel monster did not answer me again, but he seized two of my
+companions and dashed them to the ground with such force that they
+died on the spot. He devoured them as a lion devours his prey. He
+left nothing of them, neither bones nor flesh nor hair. We wept aloud
+and prayed to Zeus with our hearts full of despair."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XV
+THE BLINDING OF THE CYCLOPS
+
+
+"When the monster had filled himself with food, he stretched out on
+the floor of the cave to sleep. Then the thought came to me to thrust
+a sword into his heart. But this was not a wise course to take, because
+we should never have been able to remove the stone from the entrance
+to the cave.
+
+"We passed the night in mourning and lamentations. As soon as daylight
+appeared, the Cyclops woke up and lit a fire and milked his sheep
+again. Then he seized two more of my companions and devoured them.
+When his morning meal was done he rolled the stone back from the door
+and drove his beasts out, not forgetting to secure the entrance. We
+could hear his noisy shouts afar off as he led his flocks over the
+grassy heights, and we began to make plans to destroy him.
+
+"We found a great club of green olive-wood in the cave; one that the
+Cyclops had cut for his own use. It was as large as the mast of a
+ship, and he had laid it away to dry. I cut off a fathom's length
+from this club and handed the piece to my companions, who smoothed
+off its sides and sharpened it at one end. This being done, I put
+the sharp end of it into the fire. The stick became very hard, and
+then I hid the weapon under a heap of litter which was piled up in
+the cave. We cast lots to see who should assist me to put out the
+eye of the Cyclops when he was asleep.
+
+"When evening came the Cyclops returned to the cave with his fat sheep
+and kids. He seemed to suspect that there was mischief afoot, for
+he did not leave any of them outside. After milking the ewes and goats
+he again seized two of my companions and made his supper of them.
+But I filled a large drinking-vessel with the wine from our wine-skin
+and stepped boldly out and said to him: 'Here is a cup of wine which
+I brought, hoping that thou wouldst spare my life, O Cyclops, for
+thy wrath is boundless.' He took the cup and drank. The wine delighted
+him greatly, and he handed me the cup after emptying it and said:
+'Give me another draught and tell me thy name. I will give thee a
+generous gift, such as becomes a host. We, too, have wine, but not
+such as yours. That tastes like nectar and ambrosia.'
+
+"Three times I filled the cup and brought it to him, and three times
+the Cyclops drank it like a madman. When the wine had overpowered
+him, I said to him: 'Cyclops, thou dost wish to know my name, and
+I will tell it, but thou must give me the present thou hast promised.
+My name is Nobody. My father and mother gave me this name and my friends
+all call me by it.' 'Then,' said the Cyclops, 'I shall eat Nobody
+last of all. This is my present.'
+
+"After these words he fell asleep and, being very drunk, he began
+to spew out the wine and flesh he had taken. I took the piece of
+olive-wood which my men had sharpened and put the point of it into
+the fire and held it there until it was a glowing coal. My comrades
+stood near me and I encouraged them with brave words. We thrust the
+burning stick into the Cyclops' eye and put it out. He howled with
+pain, and, stung to madness, he seized the stick and flung it across
+the cave.
+
+"He called to the other Cyclops, who lived in divers caves on the
+surrounding mountains, while we hid ourselves in fear in the most
+remote corners of the cave. The giants heard him and came running
+to help him, but they could not get into the cave. They stood near
+the stone, close to the door, and called out: 'What ails thee,
+Polyphemus? Is anyone trying to kill thee?' 'Woe is me!' cried
+Polyphemus, 'Nobody is trying to kill me.' 'Then why dost thou shout
+and cry for help?' said they. 'If nobody hurts thee, then thou art
+not hurt.'
+
+"With these words they went off, and we rejoiced greatly that my trick
+had deceived them."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVI
+ODYSSEUS AND HIS COMPANIONS LEAVE THE LAND OF THE CYCLOPS
+
+
+"Polyphemus, groaning with pain, tried to feel his way with his hands
+to the mouth of the cavern. Having succeeded in this, he rolled back
+the stone and sat down at the entrance and stretched out his hands
+in order to catch us if we should happen to try to get out among the
+sheep.
+
+"But we were not so foolish as to be caught in this way. There were
+in the cave a number of stout and woolly rams. Of these I put three
+abreast and tied them together with twigs that happened to be in the
+cave. Under each middle ram I tied one of my companions. The two sheep,
+one on each side of him, hid the man completely. For myself I selected
+the stoutest ram of the flock, and, seizing his long shaggy wool with
+my hands, held fast to him with my knees and arms.
+
+"The sun rose and the animals began to hasten out to the pastures.
+The Cyclops, though nearly exhausted with pain, passed his hands over
+the backs of the sheep to find out whether any of us were trying to
+ride out of the cave. He did not find out our trick, and my companions
+all escaped safely. Last of all, the ram that carried me came to the
+door, because I was so heavy that he could hardly walk with me hanging
+to him.
+
+"Polyphemus felt of his back and recognized him at once as his favorite
+ram, and said: 'Dearest of all my sheep, why dost thou go last?
+Commonly thou wert the first of the flock to hasten to the rich pasture
+and the cool spring, just as thou wert the first in the evening to
+return to thy manger. But to-day thou art last of all. Dost thou grieve
+because thy master hath lost his eye, which Nobody has put out? But
+wait a little. He shall not escape death. Couldst thou only speak,
+my ram, thou wouldst tell me at once where the scoundrel is; then
+thou shouldst see how I would dash him against the rocks.'
+
+"Speaking such words as these, he let the ram go. When we were safely
+out of the cave, we gladly took to our feet and drove the fat sheep
+down to our boat with all haste. Our friends received us with tears
+of joy, for they thought we had surely perished. I made signs to them
+not to weep aloud, and to hurry the sheep on board the ship. They
+did this with all haste, and each man took his place at the oars.
+
+"When we were beyond the reach of the Cyclops, I called out to tease
+him, 'Ha! Cyclops, Cyclops, thou hast not been entertaining a coward.
+Zeus and the other gods have avenged the brave men whom thou didst
+so cruelly destroy.'
+
+"The Cyclops heard my words and grew furious. He seized a large rock
+and threw it with all his might toward the place where he had heard
+my voice.
+
+"The rock fell in front of my ship, and the waves which it raised
+carried us back on shore. I seized a large pole and shoved the boat
+back into the water, commanding my men to ply their oars vigorously,
+that we might escape destruction. My companions begged me not to
+excite the dangerous monster further; but when we were a long way
+out I shouted to him: 'Cyclops, if ever anybody asks thee who put
+out thine eye, tell him it was Odysseus, the son of Laertes, conqueror
+of Troy.'
+
+"When Polyphemus heard these words he gave a deep groan, and said
+to me: 'Truly did the wise seer, Telemos, foretell that I was to be
+blinded by Odysseus. But I thought there would come a large and
+powerful man, not such an insignificant little fellow who would cheat
+me with wine. Come back, Odysseus, and let me bestow upon you the
+gifts which are due to strangers. I will pray to my father, Poseidon,
+to give thee a safe and speedy return to thy native land. He can restore
+my eye whenever he will, so I cherish no anger against thee.'
+
+"I knew his deceit, however, and replied: 'I would rather take thy
+life, and send thee down to the dark halls of the dead, where thy
+father could never restore thy sight.'
+
+"As soon as Polyphemus heard this, he raised his hands to heaven and
+prayed to Poseidon, 'My father,' he said, 'hear me, if in truth I
+am thy son. Grant me this prayer. May Odysseus never return to his
+own country, or, if it be thy will that he reach home and friends
+again, let his return be late and sorrowful. May his comrades all
+be lost, and may he go back in a borrowed ship, and find new troubles
+waiting for him in his house.'
+
+"Poseidon was moved to wrath against me by this prayer, and determined
+to take vengeance on me. The Cyclops seized another stone, much larger
+than the last, and swinging it round, threw it at us with tremendous
+strength. It fell close to the ship, but this time it drove the boat
+out into the sea and in the direction of the island where we first
+landed.
+
+"When we reached the island we found the friends we had left there
+waiting anxiously for our return. My men drew their boat up on to
+the smooth sand and stepped upon the beach, taking the sheep along
+with them. Each man took an equal share, but they gave me the ram
+which had saved my life. We took him out upon the beach and offered
+him up as a sacrifice to Zeus.
+
+"But sacrifices were vain, for Zeus had more evil for us in his mind.
+We spent the rest of the day on the island, eating and drinking, and
+when the sun went down we camped on the shore for the night. In the
+morning I called my men to climb the decks and cut the ropes that
+kept us fastened to the shore. With all speed they went aboard and
+took their oars in hand and set sail for home, glad to escape, but
+sorrowing for our lost companions."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVII
+THE ADVENTURES OF ODYSSEUS ON THE ISLAND OF AEOLUS
+
+
+"We sailed about on unknown seas for many days, when we reached the
+island where AEolus made his abode. This island was surrounded by
+smooth rocks and guarded by a wall of shining brass.
+
+"AEolus had twelve children, six sons and six daughters, and they
+banqueted on an endless variety of meats from day to day all the year
+round. AEolus was a kindly, genial god; he was master of the winds,
+and one could hear the music of sweet pipes in his halls all day,
+and the air was fresh and fragrant there.
+
+"AEolus welcomed us hospitably and kept us with him a whole month.
+He inquired of the fate of all our companions in the war with Troy,
+and we stated what had happened to them. Then we prayed him to send
+us home, and the god very kindly gave us a sack made of skin in which
+he had tied up all the contrary winds, leaving only the west wind
+free to carry us safely home.
+
+"I took the great bag of winds and bound it fast to the main mast
+of the ship with a silver chain, so that no rude wind could escape
+and blow us out of our way. We sailed along nine days and nine nights,
+blown by the friendly breeze from the west, and on the tenth we saw
+in the distance the mountain tops of Ithaca and the fires along the
+shore.
+
+"And now I was overcome by a heavy sleep, for I had been guiding the
+ship, not daring to trust it to the hand of any of the crew. While
+I lay unconscious of what was going on, my companions talked among
+themselves and said they believed that the bag which AEolus had given
+me contained vast amounts of gold and silver. And they spoke with
+great jealousy of the prizes which I had received wherever we had
+landed, while they went empty-handed.
+
+"The more they talked to one another the more jealous and angry they
+grew. They untied the sack and the winds rushed out, much to their
+astonishment, and seized the ship, driving it round and round in a
+furious storm. I started out of my sleep suddenly and found the bag
+open I had so carefully guarded and my companions weeping bitterly.
+
+"For a moment I had a mind to throw myself into the sea and make an
+end of my troubles forever. But the thought came to me that such an
+action would not be noble, so I hid my head in my mantle and lay down
+in the bottom of the ship while the violent winds and towering waves
+drove us back to the island we had left. We landed there again, and,
+having partaken of some food and wine, I sought the halls of AEolus.
+
+"I found the king and his wife and children at table taking their
+evening meal. When AEolus saw me he was amazed, and asked me what
+had happened to me. I told him about the senseless action of my
+companions, and begged him to assist me once more. But with a terrible
+voice he replied: 'Begone as fast as thou canst out of my island.
+I will not befriend a man who is hated of the gods.' In this unkind
+way he sent me off, and we sadly entered our ships and made for the
+open sea, trusting to the mercy of the winds."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVIII
+ODYSSEUS AT THE HOME OF CIRCE
+
+
+"For six days and six nights we sailed without interruption, but on
+the seventh day we reached the city of the Laestrygonians. There the
+pastures are so rich in grass that the fields, which are grazed by
+one flock of sheep during the day, yield abundant food for another
+flock by night. The inhabitants were not only inhospitable, but they
+received us with a shower of stones, which they hurled at us and at
+our galleys. They broke our ships and killed my companions, spearing
+them like fish. Then they carried them ashore to be devoured. With
+the greatest difficulty I succeeded in saving one ship and a few
+companions from the hands of these giants, and I fled with them out
+to the high sea.
+
+"Sadly we continued our course until we reached an island, where the
+goddess Circe, a daughter of the Sun and Ocean, lived. We landed
+silently, and gave two days and nights to rest, for we were worn out
+with toil and grief. On the third day I climbed to the top of a high
+hill and looked over the island. Down below I saw a marble palace,
+surrounded by a thick forest. There was smoke rising from the grounds,
+so I resolved to return to my men and send out some of them to look
+about and explore.
+
+"A large stag ran down into my path, on his way to a river to drink,
+and I thrust my spear through him and flung him across my neck and
+took him to the ship. I threw him at the feet of my men, who were
+astonished at his size. They prepared a banquet at once, and we feasted
+upon the meat.
+
+"That night we slept on the shore again, and in the morning I told
+them that I had seen a palace standing in a thick wood, and that I
+wanted to send several men there to try to get food. When my companions
+thought of all their comrades who had been slain they wept aloud.
+But their tears were useless. I divided them into two equal bands,
+and we cast lots to see which party should make the adventure.
+
+"The lot fell to Eurylochos and his band of men. They started forth,
+and soon came to a beautiful valley, in which was the splendid house
+of Circe, which was built of well-hewn stone. There were beasts of
+prey, lions and wolves, around it. The animals were tame; they wagged
+their tails and fawned like dogs, but the men were afraid of them.
+Circe was weaving in the palace and singing a beautiful song. She
+had bright, sunny hair and a sweet voice. The men heard her as she
+went back and forth weaving, and they called aloud. She came to the
+door and threw it wide open and bade them enter.
+
+"Eurylochos alone did not go in, for he feared that some evil would
+come of it. The others followed her, and Circe seated them on thrones
+and gave them food and wine, but in the wine she had secretly infused
+a magic juice which made them forget home and friends and all desire
+to see their native land.
+
+"When they had eaten and drunk to their hearts' content, she waved
+her wand over them, and at once the poor wretches were changed into
+grunting pigs, which she shut up in pigsties and threw acorns and
+other food fit for swine before them. Although thus transformed and
+covered with bristles, they still retained the human mind.
+
+"Eurylochos stayed a long time outside awaiting the return of his
+companions. But as they tarried so long, he hastened back to the ship
+to tell the news. Thereupon I quickly hung my sword over my shoulder
+and, taking my bow and arrows, hurried off alone, and soon found myself
+not far from Circe's palace."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIX
+CIRCE INSTRUCTS ODYSSEUS CONCERNING HIS DESCENT TO HADES
+
+
+"As I lingered in that dangerous valley there appeared to me a youth
+whom I knew at once to be Hermes, the messenger of the gods. He gently
+took hold of my hand and, looking compassionately on me, said: 'Thou
+most unhappy man! Why art thou roaming alone in these wild parts?
+Or art thou bound on the errand of delivering thy friends who have
+all been changed by Circe into swine? Much do I fear that thou mayest
+meet with the same fate. Listen to my words and heed them well if
+thou wouldst destroy the treacherous schemes of Circe.
+
+"'Take this little flower. Its name is Moly among the gods, and no
+wicked sorcery can hurt the man who treasures it carefully. Its root
+is black. Its blossom is as white as milk, and it is hard for men
+to tear it from the ground. Take this herb and go fearlessly into
+the dwelling of the sorceress; it will guard thee against all mishap.
+She will bring thee a bowl of wine mingled with the juice of
+enchantment, but do not fear to eat or drink anything she may offer
+thee, and when she touches thy head with her magic wand, then rush
+upon her quickly with drawn sword as though about to slay her. She
+will crouch in fear and entreat thee with soft words to spare her.
+But do not give way to her until she has pledged herself by the great
+oath of the gods to do thee no harm.'
+
+"When Hermes had spoken thus he left me, to return to high Olympos,
+and I walked to the house of Circe with a braver heart. As I came
+near the palace I called out to the goddess with a loud voice, and
+she threw open the doors for me to enter. She bade me sit down on
+a beautiful throne and placed a golden foot-stool under my feet. Then
+she gave me the dangerous cup and I drank it off, but her charm did
+not work.
+
+"Scarcely had I drained the cup when the goddess struck me with her
+wand and said: 'Off with you! Go to the pigsty, where friends await
+thy coming!' In a twinkling I had my sword in hand and rushed upon
+her as if to kill her. Circe shrieked with fear and fell on her knees
+to implore my mercy. 'Who art thou and whence dost thou come?' said
+Circe. 'Thou art the first man over whom my magic wine has had no
+power. Art thou really that Odysseus of whom Hermes told me that he
+was to come here after many wanderings? But put up thy sword and cease
+to be angry with me and let us trust each other.'
+
+"I answered her: 'O, goddess, how can I have faith in thy words, since
+thou hast changed my companions into swine and dost plot the same
+fate for me? Swear me the great oath that thou wilt not harm me, and
+I shall trust thy words.'
+
+"Circe at once took the great oath, that she would never again try
+to do me any harm, and she ordered her servants to spread a feast
+before me. But I had no desire to eat. I sat down in silence, my mind
+full of grief and doubt.
+
+"When Circe saw that I did not touch the food she said: 'Why art thou
+so quiet and speechless? And why dost thou not taste the food and
+wine? I have pledged myself by the great oath to do thee no harm!'
+But I answered: 'What man with a loyal heart, O goddess, could eat
+and drink with any pleasure while his comrades are kept in bondage
+and degradation? If thou art really kind and wouldst have me enjoy
+this bounteous feast, O let me see my dear companions free once more!'
+
+"The goddess took her wand and went to the pen and drove out the swine.
+She then anointed them with a magic ointment, and their bristles fell
+off and they stood up and were men again. They knew me, and each one
+seized my hand, shedding tears of joy. Then I sent for the rest of
+my men at the ship, who eagerly came up, and together we entered the
+halls of Circe, all of us weeping with joy.
+
+"Circe's heart was softened also, and she said to me: 'Son of Laertes,
+noble Odysseus, do not weep and grieve any longer. I know what
+hardships thou hast endured on land and sea. Take courage, for thy
+sufferings will soon be at an end. Go down to the sea and hide thy
+boat near the shore and come back to my halls, thou and all thy men,
+where I will make it a happy home for all until thou art rested and
+ready to sail again for thy native land.'
+
+"We stayed a whole year on the island of Circe, feasting and enjoying
+ourselves, and fully recovered our strength. The desire of reaching
+my beloved Ithaca grew stronger within me day by day, and at last
+I begged Circe to allow us to depart. 'I am not willing, O son of
+Laertes,' Circe answered, 'that thou shouldst remain here against
+thy wish, but it is necessary that thou shouldst, before departing
+from my island, descend into Hades, to the palace of Pluto and
+Persephone, to consult the spirit of the Theban seer, Tiresias, on
+whom Persephone has bestowed the priceless gift of preserving his
+memory even in Hades, whereas all the other souls are moving about
+as empty shadows.'
+
+"Hearing this, I grew desperate and no longer had any desire to live
+or see the light of day. I said to the goddess: 'Who will show me
+the way to Hades? for no living mortal has ever gone there before.'
+She replied: 'Do not worry about a guide, Odysseus, for there will
+be no need of one. Launch thy boat, unfurl the sails, and quietly
+sit down. The north wind will waft thee to the shore of Hades. There
+flows the river Styx, black and terrible. It flows between the poplars
+and willows in the groves of Persephone, and meets the broad waters
+of Okeanos. Sail up its dark stream until thou dost reach the rock
+where its two branches meet and swirl and roar. There leave thy boat
+and dig a ditch in the ground, a foot deep and a foot wide, in which
+thou shalt pour honey, milk, wine, and water as an offering to the
+dead.
+
+"'At the same time pray to the gods of Hades, and promise the shades
+of the dead that after thou hast arrived in Ithaca thou wilt sacrifice
+to them a whole heifer, the best of thy flock, and to Tiresias
+especially a black ram. Then take two sheep, a male and a female,
+kill them, and burn them as a sacrifice to the nations of the dead.
+
+"'At once there will arrive the souls of the departed. They will come
+by thousands, anxious to drink of the blood, that they may have their
+minds again. But draw thy sword and hold them back until the spirit
+of Tiresias arrives. He will tell thee how to get back to thy native
+land.'
+
+"As Circe said this the daylight appeared, and I woke my companions
+and told them to make ready to go with me. We started at once for
+our ship, and got everything in readiness to leave. I told them that
+before setting out for our own country we had, by the advice of Circe,
+to go down to Hades in order to consult the seer Tiresias about our
+journey. When they heard this they sat down, and wept, and began to
+tear the hair from their heads.
+
+"Circe meantime came up by stealth, and put two sheep into the ship,
+and we sailed sadly away."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XX
+THE ADVENTURES OF ODYSSEUS IN HADES
+
+
+"With a heavy heart we sailed from Circe's island bound for the gloomy
+Hades. As the wind was favorable, we soon reached the place of which
+the goddess had told us. There we left the ship and did those things
+which Circe had counselled us to do. As soon as the dark blood of
+the sheep began to flow into the trench countless souls came flocking
+from Hades and begged to taste of the blood, that their mortal minds
+might be restored to them.
+
+"Young wives and girls, old men and young warriors who had fallen
+in battle, airy forms, ghosts of all kinds of people, flitted like
+bats around me in that dark place with fearful cries, and I turned
+pale with fear. I drew my sword and waved them back until I should
+question the soul of Tiresias.
+
+"But first came the soul of Elpenor, one of my companions who had
+gone with me to the palace of Circe. We had left him dead in the halls
+of the goddess, since we had no time to bury him. Now, when I saw
+him a great pity stirred my heart, and I shed tears and said to him:
+'Elpenor, how didst thou come into these dread regions of darkness?
+Thou hast come more quickly on foot than I in my quick ship.'
+
+"The phantom knew me, for, being as yet unburied, he was not one of
+the shades, and had not lost his memory or voice, nor did he need
+to drink of the blood. He moaned and replied: 'Noble Odysseus, it
+was an evil fate which the gods had decreed for me. I drank too much
+wine and that caused my death. I lay down to sleep on the roof of
+Circe's palace and could not remember the way to the stairs when thou
+didst call us to the ships. In my haste I fell from the roof and broke
+my neck, and my soul came down to Hades.
+
+"'I pray thee now by all those whom thou dost love--thy wife, thy
+father, and thy son--that thou leave not my body unburied in the palace
+halls, lest I bring on thee the anger of the gods. But on thy return
+to Circe's isle burn my body, together with my armor, and pile up
+a mound of earth over my ashes. Plant my oar upon my tomb--the oar
+with which I used to row while I was living.'
+
+"I made the promise, but at this moment the soul of my mother, whom
+I had left hale and strong among the living when I went to the war,
+approached and tried to get at the trench. I wept to see her, but
+with a heavy heart I forbade her coming nearer until I had spoken
+with Tiresias. At this moment troops of souls came flocking out of
+Hades, and from the countless throng the Theban seer came leaning
+on a golden staff, and he ordered me to lay aside my sword and permit
+him to drink of the blood.
+
+"When he had drunk, he spoke to me and said: 'Odysseus, man of many
+woes, why dost thou leave the light of the sun and come down among
+the dead? Doubtless thy heart's desire is to return safely home. But
+much suffering is in store for thee. Poseidon will not permit it,
+because thou hast blinded his son, Polyphemus. Still, thou mayest
+overcome all difficulties and see Ithaca at last, if thou dost not
+harm the cattle and fat sheep of the Sun on the island of Trinacria.
+
+"'But if thou dost kill them and eat of their flesh, I warn thee that
+nothing will save thy comrades or thy ships. Even then thou mayest
+be saved, but it will be on a strange ship, alone, and after dreadful
+sufferings. And at home thou wilt find other misfortunes awaiting
+thee.
+
+"'There will be a mob of lawless men rioting in thy house, squandering
+thy riches, and trying to get thy wife to marry one of them. Thou
+shalt kill these violent men in thy halls by craft or in open fight.
+After that thou shalt reach a good and prosperous old age, and find
+a peaceful death far away from the sea. All that I tell thee shall
+surely happen.'"
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXI
+ODYSSEUS CONVERSES WITH HIS MOTHER AND AGAMEMNON
+
+
+"When Tiresias had gone, my mother came back to the dark trench and
+drank of the blood. She knew me at once and cried out: 'Oh, my child,
+how didst thou ever come down to this gloomy place alive? Art thou
+on thy way home from Troy? And hast thou not seen Ithaca yet, nor
+thy wife and child?'
+
+"I answered her: 'Dear mother, I was compelled to come down here in
+order to consult the soul of the prophet Tiresias about my return;
+for I have not yet touched foot to Grecian soil. I have been driven
+about on strange seas from year to year, and have suffered misfortune
+after misfortune. Oh, tell me, my mother, how didst thou die? Did
+some lingering disease waste thy life, or didst thou meet a sudden,
+painless death?
+
+"'Tell me of my father and of my son. Do they still hold rule over
+Ithaca? Or has someone snatched it away from them, thinking I was
+never to return? How fares my wife, Penelope? Is she still faithful
+to the husband of her youth, or has she married another?'
+
+"To all this my mother answered: 'My son, Penelope is in the home
+where thou didst leave her, and she weeps for thee day and night.
+Nobody has usurped thy kingdom, and Telemachos has charge of thy royal
+estates. But thy father dwells on thy farm, and shares the life of
+the servants. He seldom goes down to the city. The grief he feels
+for loss of thee has made him old, and will hasten his death, as it
+caused mine, for I could not live without thee.'
+
+"So spake my mother, and I longed to clasp her to my heart. Three
+times I threw my arms around her, and three times she passed through
+them like a shadow. Then I cried out in sorrow: 'Oh, my dear mother!
+why can I not clasp thee to my heart and hold thee in my arms, that
+we may lose for a while our sense of loneliness and misery?'
+
+"My mother spoke and said: 'It is the lot of all our race when they
+are dead. When life departs we have no bones and flesh, but the soul
+flies off and flits about from one place to another. Hasten back to
+the pleasant daylight, and when thou dost reach home tell thy wife
+what I have said.'
+
+"When my mother had gone, I saw the soul of Agamemnon approaching,
+together with the shades of those of his companions who had perished
+with him. The moment he had drunk of the blood he knew me and raised
+a loud wail. He stretched out his hands to me, and I tried to seize
+them, but I clutched only the empty air.
+
+"Then I began to weep, too, and said to him: 'Famous son of Atreus,
+King Agamemnon, tell me how thou didst die. Did Poseidon wreck thee
+on the sea in a terrible storm, or didst thou fall in war, fighting
+on the land?'
+
+"Whereupon the king told me the dire story of his home-coming and
+his death at traitors' hands. 'When I trod my native soil again after
+a long absence,' he said, 'I was overcome with joy at the thought
+of seeing my wife and children once more. But I was slain in my own
+home, and my wife did not even close my eyes as my soul came on its
+way to these dark realms.'
+
+"I answered: 'Alas! how the gods must hate the family of Atreus on
+account of the unfaithfulness of its women!'
+
+"Agamemnon replied: 'Oh, son of Laertes, thou art a fortunate man,
+for thou hast a faithful wife. Penelope is wise and virtuous. I
+remember, when we were ready to start for Troy she was a young wife
+with a little babe in her arms, which she pressed to her bosom. He
+must be a man now. Thou art a happy father. Thou wilt see thy son
+at home in Ithaca.
+
+"'No such good fortune can ever come to me. My wife did not even let
+me see my son before she slew me. Tell me about him, I beseech thee,
+how he is. Does he still live in Sparta?'
+
+"'Son of Atreus,' I said, 'do not ask me where thy son is. I cannot
+tell whether he is alive or not, and this is no time for idle
+conjectures;' and we wept as I spoke."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXII
+CONVERSATION WITH ACHILLES AND OTHER HEROES
+
+
+"While we were conversing thus, the shades of Achilles and Patroklos
+came near. The soul of Achilles recognized me, and he said: 'Odysseus,
+son of Laertes, how darest thou descend into the gloomy habitation
+of the dead? This is the greatest labor thou hast undertaken.'
+
+"I answered: 'Godlike Achilles, I came here to consult the seer
+Tiresias about my return to my own country, for I have never yet
+reached Grecian soil, but have wandered about suffering great
+misfortunes. No one is happier than thou art, O Achilles. When thou
+wert alive all men honored thee as if thou wert a god, and now thou
+art a king and rulest over the dead.'
+
+"Then he replied: 'Do not try to console me, Odysseus. I would rather
+be the slave of a poor man, and in the light of the sun, than to be
+in Hades and rule over all the dead. But tell me, Odysseus, how fares
+my noble son? Does he fight in the wars, and is he in the front ranks?
+And Peleus, my aged father, tell me of him. Is he still king of the
+Myrmidons? Or do they hold him in contempt, now that he is old, and
+I am not there to uphold him?'
+
+"I answered him: 'I know nothing about thy aged father, O Achilles,
+but I have many things to tell thee about thy son. I brought him from
+Skyros, myself, in a ship to Troy, and placed him in the Greek army.
+There he surpassed everyone except Nestor and myself in the wisdom
+of his advice, and when we went forth to battle he fought among the
+foremost, slaying many illustrious foes.
+
+"'Above all, his powers shone forth when we were hidden in the wooden
+horse. All the other leaders of the Greeks gave signs of fear. They
+grew white and shed tears; but his face never turned pale, and no
+tear came into his eyes. He called on me to leave the horse and rush
+upon the foe, and he smote the Trojans, carrying death and destruction
+among them. When we finally subdued the city, thy son took rich booty
+and safely reached his own country.'
+
+"As soon as Achilles heard this news he rejoiced. He strode proudly
+off over the field of Elysian asphodels, well pleased that he had
+left such a mighty son on earth.
+
+"After Achilles had departed, many other souls came and talked with
+me. Only the soul of Ajax kept aloof, still angry over a victory which
+I gained near the ships when I took the weapons of Achilles as my
+share of the booty. Little did that victory and the arms please me,
+since they caused the grave to close over such a hero as Ajax.
+
+"I spoke to his soul in gentle words: 'Ajax, son of Telamon, did not
+even death appease the anger against me which thou didst feel on
+account of my receiving the arms that brought such a calamity upon
+the Greeks? For thou wast our tower of strength, and the weapons proved
+fatal to thee. Come nearer and speak to me, for I bewail thy death.'
+I spoke soothingly yet Ajax gave no answer. His spirit vanished away
+among the other spirits.
+
+"Then I beheld Minos, the lawgiver of Crete, who held a golden sceptre
+in his hand and judged the dead. He had under him the great wrong-doers
+of one part of Hades. With him I saw Tantalos, who stood in a pool
+of water, suffering at the same time a painful thirst. As often as
+he tried to put his lips to the water it sank down away from him so
+that he could not reach it.
+
+"I saw Sisyphos, also, who suffered great punishment, for he rolled
+a large rock uphill with both hands, straining every muscle of his
+body to the utmost to move it. No sooner had he pushed it to the top
+of the hill than it rolled back with deafening noise to the bottom
+of the valley. Again the unfortunate man toiled to move it upward,
+the sweat covering his body and clouds of dust hovering over his head.
+
+"Then I saw the shade of Herakles, but the hero himself sits among
+the gods on Mount Olympos. And there came myriads of souls, making
+a terrible noise, which filled me with dread, lest I might look upon
+the Gorgon, and I hastened back to the ship. I ordered the crew to
+go on board, and they took their oars and rowed until we reached the
+open sea, where favorable winds caught by the sails wafted us back
+to Circe's isle."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIII
+THE RETURN OF ODYSSEUS TO THE ISLAND OF CIRCE
+
+
+"When we reached Circe's isle, we dragged our vessel up on to the
+beach, and lay down to sleep on the shore. At break of day I sent
+my comrades forth to bring the body of Elpenor from the palace. We
+took it out to a rocky place on the shore, and cut down trees to build
+a funeral pyre. There we burned the body and performed the funeral
+rites, and we built a tomb and placed an oar at the top of it.
+
+"All this was done quietly, but Circe saw us and came with her maids,
+bringing a generous supply of food and wine. Standing in our midst,
+she said: 'Brave men, who living have gone down to Hades, all men
+die once, but you are permitted to die twice. Take food, eat and drink
+all day long, and to-morrow at daylight depart for your native land.
+I will show you the way and teach you how to avoid all danger.'
+
+"We spent the whole day on the shore, eating and drinking, but when
+the sun sank down and the earth was covered with darkness my companions
+went near the ship to seek rest. But I sat down by Circe, who questioned
+me about my visit to Hades. After I had told her everything, she said:
+'Odysseus, so far all is well, but there are a great many new dangers
+ahead. Listen carefully to what I say. First, thou must pass the Sirens,
+who bewitch with their melodious voices all who listen to them. Woe
+to him who allows his ship to go near them! He will never reach his
+native land, or see his wife and children again. The Sirens sit in
+a green field and sing, while the bones of dead men lie in heaps near
+them. Do not listen to them, but pass them by unnoticed.
+
+"'Or, if thou wouldst enjoy the matchless singing and not pay the
+forfeit with thy life, let thy men bind thee hand and foot to the
+mast of thy ship, so that thou canst not by any effort stir a limb
+when the great longing seizes thee. And give thy men strict orders
+to make thy bonds tighter shouldst thou entreat them to loose thee.
+Before thou art bound, thou shalt knead soft wax in thy palms and
+fill the ears of thy companions with it, that no sound may enter.
+
+"'Thence thou wilt come to the narrows where Skylla and Charybdis
+dwell. On each side of the narrows is a steep cliff, one of which
+is so high that its sharp top reaches the sky. It is so slippery that
+no one is able to climb up or down its sides, nor could he if he had
+twenty hands and feet. Not even a bird can safely perch on it.
+
+"'No boat has ever come to the spot and left it without being wrecked,
+except Jason's, when he was in search of the Golden Fleece, and he
+escaped because a goddess was his guide, to pilot him through. A dark
+gray fog forever broods over the head of the cliff, and on its western
+side there yawns a fearful cave, where Skylla lives.
+
+"'She is a terrible monster that barks like a savage dog, day and
+night. She has twelve shapeless feet, and six heads set on long necks.
+Each of her mouths shows three rows of deadly teeth. Half of her body
+is hidden in the rock, but she thrusts out her heads and snatches
+her prey, fish, whales, dolphins, or men. No sailor escapes, or,
+indeed, any living creature that passes that way.
+
+"'The other cliff is not so high, but is still more dangerous. There,
+under the foliage of a wild fig-tree, Charybdis dwells, who sucks
+in the dark waters of the sea three times a day and belches them forth
+again three times with a terrible noise. Woe to thee if thou art near
+when she sucks the waters down, for not even Poseidon himself could
+save thee. It would be better far to steer close to Skylla, for then
+only six of thy men would be snatched from the benches, but if
+Charybdis seizes thy ship all must perish.
+
+"'These pests are immortal. Do not try to overcome them. They cannot
+die. It is better to fly from them with all haste. It would be rashness
+and not courage to attack them.
+
+"'Next in thy voyage thou wilt come to the island of Trinacria, where
+the fine flocks of Helios are feeding. Two shining nymphs, daughters
+of the Sun, tend them. There are seven herds of oxen and seven herds
+of sheep, fifty in each herd and flock. These creatures are immortal,
+and greatly beloved of Helios, who will send destruction to thy ship
+and crew if any harm come to them. Forbid thy men to touch the cattle,
+even though suffering for food. If thou art wise enough to escape
+these dangers, thou shalt reach thy home without further mischance.'
+
+"As the goddess finished, day broke. Circe sought her own dwelling,
+while we put to sea with a favorable wind, and soon the island faded
+from our sight."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIV
+ODYSSEUS MEETS THE SIRENS, SKYLLA, AND CHARYBDIS
+
+
+"When I saw that we were near the home of the Sirens, I said to my
+men: 'It is not wise that only one of us should know the oracles of
+Circe, and I will tell you all she said to me, that ye may escape
+from the perils before us; and I disclosed her sayings to them. Then
+I took a handful of wax and warmed it in the sun until it was soft,
+and carefully clogged up their ears.
+
+"They, in turn, tied me to the mast, hand and foot, so firmly that
+I could not stir a limb, having first received my command that they
+should not loose my bonds on any account. Then they bent to their
+oars, and rowed close to the Sirens, so that they could see me and
+I could hear their bewitching songs.
+
+"'Come to us, O renowned Odysseus,' they sang; 'pride of the Greeks,
+come and listen to our voices. No one ever yet passed us without
+stopping and admiring our sweet songs. Come, that we may sing to thee
+about Troy and thy friends, for we know everything that is going on
+in the whole world.'
+
+"Thus they sang, and their songs thrilled me. A great desire came
+over me to stop and listen to them, and with nods I entreated my
+comrades to set me free. But they sprang up and bound other cords
+about me, so that I struggled in vain. Then all the men plied their
+oars until the water was white with foam, and when we were out of
+sight of the island and could no longer hear the songs of the Sirens,
+my men set me free, and I took the wax from their ears.
+
+"Hardly had we escaped from the Sirens when we beheld a black fog
+and towering waves and heard a frightful noise. My men were so scared
+that the oars fell from their hands and the ship stood still. I
+hastened from one end of the boat to the other, speaking cheerful
+words to each rower. 'My dear friends,' I said, 'have no fear. This
+is not the first time we have encountered danger. We have been saved
+from the hands of the Cyclops through our own valor and clever devices,
+and we are not going to break down now. Listen, and I will tell you
+what is to be done. Keep your seats and ply your oars with all your
+might; but thou, O helmsman, steer thy ship clear of that fog and
+the whirling waves.' Thus I spoke, and they willingly obeyed my words.
+
+"Yet I said nothing to them about Skylla, lest they should lose heart
+and hide in the bottom of the ship. Thus we passed in between the
+two cliffs, the one of which harbored Skylla and the other Charybdis,
+who, with a terrible noise, swallowed the brine of the sea and belched
+it out again with a roar like the mingling of fire and water.
+
+"But I forgot the command of Circe to fly from these monsters without
+fighting. I put on my shining armor and took a spear in each hand,
+and went on deck, and stood in warlike attitude ready to attack Skylla
+if she should raise a hand to seize one of my men. I looked for a
+long time, but I could not see her.
+
+"We sailed on, the uproar increasing. My men grew white with fear.
+The salt waters whirled so that we could look into a deep watery pit
+and see the blue sand. The rocks were hidden by a thick mist. Suddenly
+Skylla thrust forth a mighty hand and snatched six of my brave men,
+as a fisherman pulls out fish with a hook. I saw their hands
+outstretched toward me as they were lifted up into the air, and I
+heard their cries for help. Woe is me! This sight will haunt me as
+long as I have life."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXV
+ODYSSEUS ON THE ISLAND OF HELIOS
+
+
+"When we had escaped from the terrible Skylla and Charybdis, we came
+to the island of Helios, the island of the Sun, and heard from afar
+the lowing of the cattle and the bleating of the sheep. Then I
+remembered the words of Tiresias and Circe, and I advised my
+companions not to land there at all, but to go right on, lest we suffer
+some new disaster.
+
+"My crew would not listen to me. They commanded me to land on the
+isle. I then made them take an oath not even to look at any of the
+cattle. We prepared our evening meal, and when it was over we talked
+of our dear companions whom Skylla had devoured, and we mourned over
+them until we fell asleep.
+
+"We remained a whole month on this island, on account of unfavorable
+winds. We found the roomy grot where the nymphs danced, and the seats
+where they sat--the nymphs who tended the flocks of Helios.
+
+"As long as we had a plenty of bread and wine my comrades were satisfied
+and spared the cattle. But when our store of food was exhausted they
+roamed all over the island to see what they could get to appease their
+hunger. They snared birds and caught fish with hooks, and lived on
+them or anything else that came to hand. But they grew poor and lean
+with hunger and nearly starved. I went off alone into the island,
+where I had found a quiet nook, and sent up prayers to the gods to
+show us the way out of our difficulties. There I fell asleep.
+
+"While I slumbered, Eurylochos called my men together, and said: 'All
+kinds of death are bad enough, my brave friends, but death by
+starvation is the worst. Let us kill the best of these cattle and
+offer sacrifices to the gods, and then eat and live. If we ever get
+to Ithaca we will make restitution, for we will build altars to the
+Sun and place costly gifts upon his shrine. But if it is his will
+to destroy us in his anger, then let us die amid the billows of the
+deep, for that is better than to die by famine.'
+
+"Thus spoke Eurylochos, and the others lent a willing ear. They seized
+the best of the cattle at once, and slaughtered them, and prepared
+a hearty meal. They offered up petitions to the gods, standing round
+their victims with young oak-leaves in their hands. Then they covered
+the thighs with caul, and laid slices of fat over these, and poured
+on water and roasted it until it was consumed. All the rest was cut
+into smaller portions and scorched on iron prongs.
+
+"At this moment I awoke and hurried down to the ship, and with horror
+found the dreadful meal prepared. One of the nymphs, immortal
+shepherdess, flew to the Sun to tell him that my men had slain his
+cattle. Helios was deeply angered, and spoke thus before the assembled
+gods: 'Father Zeus and all ye immortal gods, behold the comrades of
+Odysseus! They have slaughtered my heifers, which gladdened my heart
+as I went up to heaven and down to earth.
+
+"'If they do not pay me well for this great wrong, I shall go down
+among the dead and give them light, but I will give no light to the
+living.' 'Shine on, O Sun, in the bright sky,' said Zeus, 'for I will
+cut their ship to pieces with a thunder-bolt, as it tosses on a black
+sea.' I could only chide my comrades. I could not think of any
+sufficient redress, for the cattle were dead.
+
+"And here happened a wonder which amazed my comrades. The skins of
+the dead animals crawled over the ground, and the flesh lowed as they
+had done when alive. Nevertheless, my companions continued to kill
+and eat the best oxen in the herds for six days, when a favorable
+wind sprang up, and we went on board and set sail once more.
+
+"After we had lost sight of land, and nothing was before us but sky
+and sea, a sudden darkness shrouded the heavens, and there arose a
+violent storm. The vessel was hurled hither and thither by the
+towering billows; the hurricane tore the sails and dashed the mast
+against the pilot's head, crushing the bones, and he was cast headlong
+into the sea.
+
+"Then Zeus sent a thunder-bolt into the ship, and broke it nearly
+in two. The boat was filled with a sulphurous smoke, and my comrades
+were shaken off into the sea and drowned. They floated round me, but
+I moved about in the ship until the bottom and the sides had broken
+away from each other and the mast had snapped off at its base. I took
+the mast, which had a thong of bull's-hide round it, and tied it to
+the keel. I took my seat upon this frail craft, and the storm whirled
+me about.
+
+"After awhile the west wind ceased, and the south wind began to blow,
+which was still worse for me, since it took me back to dread Charybdis.
+All night long I was tossed on the waves, and at dawn I drew near
+to Charybdis. As the monster was swallowing the salt brine, I caught
+hold of the fig-tree and clung to it like a bat till she should throw
+up my poor raft. I waited long, but at last the timbers were thrown
+out of the whirlpool, and I dropped down upon them, and sat on them
+and rowed with my hands. I floated about on the waters for nine long
+days, and on the tenth I came to Calypso's island. She welcomed me,
+and detained me seven years, as I have already told thee, O Arete,
+and why should I repeat a tale already narrated?"
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVI
+THE DEPARTURE OF ODYSSEUS FROM THE ISLAND OF SCHERIA
+
+
+All the guests had listened with deep attention to the recital of
+Odysseus; all were greatly interested, and when he ended they did
+not stir or speak a word. Alkinoos was the first to break the silence,
+and he said: "Renowned Odysseus, since thou hast come to our country,
+I hope that thy sufferings are at an end and that thou wilt reach
+thy native land safely and soon." Then the King turned to his guests
+and addressed them: "Phaeacians, let us each present one more gift,
+a large tripod and a vase, to the hero who has come among us."
+
+The Phaeacians received his words approvingly, and each went at once
+to his home to sleep. But when morning came they all sent their gifts
+to the ship, where they were packed carefully under the benches by
+the King himself, and the guests returned to the palace, where a
+banquet was spread for them.
+
+Alkinoos sacrificed an ox to Zeus, and they sat down at the table.
+The enjoyment ran high, and the old poet, Demodokos, sang sweet songs.
+They feasted all day, and when the sun was near its setting Odysseus
+said: "King Alkinoos, let us pour out the last libation and offer
+up the last prayer, for all things have come to pass that my soul
+desired. May the gods bless thy gifts. May I find my home, my wife
+and child, and friends. I pray the gods to grant thee all that is
+good, and may no evil ever befall thy land. Be pleased to send me
+hence, and fare thee well."
+
+Thus he spoke, right glad that the day was done and eager to set sail.
+The people approved his timely words, and seizing their goblets they
+poured out wine on to the ground, an offering to the gods, and they
+wished godspeed to their guest. Odysseus arose and placed a goblet
+in the hands of the Queen, addressing her thus: "Farewell, O Queen,
+I wish thee a long and happy life, a peaceful old age down to the
+grave, from which no one may escape; rejoice in the possession of
+thy home, thy people, thy children, and the King, thy husband."
+
+So spoke Odysseus, and left the hall. The King sent a herald to show
+him the way to the port where the ship was waiting for him. At the
+same time Arete also sent down some maids, who carried a new cloak
+and tunic, a well-wrought coffer full of gifts, and an abundance of
+food for the journey.
+
+These things the crew took from their hands and stowed away in the
+hold of the vessel. They spread a nice bed for him on the deck, where
+he might sleep quietly. When every thing was ready, Odysseus embarked,
+and the sailors slipped the cables and took their seats at the oars.
+Odysseus fell into a deep, sweet slumber, but the ship flew forward
+faster than a bird could fly, making rapid headway toward the island
+of Ithaca.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVII
+ODYSSEUS ARRIVES AT ITHACA
+
+
+When the morning star arose the ship reached Ithaca. It entered a
+harbor called Phorkys, where there was a grotto sacred to the nymphs,
+and it was shaded at the entrance by an olive-tree. Stone vases stood
+around in the grotto, and there bees had stored up honey. The nymphs
+spun their fine thread from stone spindles there, and wove their
+sea-purple robes. Springs of cool water flowed through the grotto,
+and there was an entrance for mortals and one which was kept holy
+for the gods.
+
+When the ship touched the beach the sailors disembarked and carried
+the sleeping Odysseus on a rug on to the shore and laid him down.
+They brought his presents also from under the ship's benches and laid
+them under the olive-tree, a short distance from the road, for fear
+that some evil-minded person would take them before Odysseus woke
+up.
+
+Then the crew sailed homeward, but Poseidon saw them and was angry
+because his purpose to cause Odysseus endless suffering had been
+thwarted. He at once complained to Zeus that the Phaeacians had
+restored Odysseus to his native land, with gifts finer and more
+valuable than anything he could have brought from Troy. Zeus listened
+to his complaint and gave him authority to destroy the Phaeacian boat
+and its crew. Poseidon promptly repaired to the island of Scheria,
+and when the ship came in sight of the town he transformed it into
+a towering rock, that it might hide the island from mariners and the
+Phaeacians would no longer be tempted to escort strangers to their
+homes.
+
+The ship had gone, and it was broad daylight when Odysseus awoke.
+He did not recognize his own country, he had been away from it for
+such a long time, and besides that, Athena had spread a dense fog
+over it. His first thought was that the Phaeacians had deceived him
+and left him on an unknown shore. He began to accuse them of treachery,
+and prayed to Zeus to punish them. He looked around and found that
+his gifts had been carefully placed, so he knew that he had not been
+robbed. He counted his gifts and examined them.
+
+There were tripods and vases of gold and brass and beautiful
+hand-woven garments. He paced up and down the shore and wept and wailed
+aloud. Then Athena appeared to him disguised as a shepherd lad.
+
+When Odysseus saw her, he hastened to her and said: "Hail, fair youth!
+I am a stranger and find myself for the first time in this place.
+I entreat thee to tell me the name of this country, and what kind
+of people inhabit it." The goddess answered him: "Truly, stranger,
+thou must come from a far-off land that thou dost not know Ithaca,
+which is known from the rising to the setting of the sun.
+
+"It is indeed a stony island but it is not barren, nor is it a good
+place for raising horses. It is rich in grain and grapes. It has an
+abundance of dew and rain, and most delicious wine is made here.
+Nowhere can be found handsomer goats or finer cattle. Every kind of
+tree grows in its forests, and its springs are never dry. The fame
+of Ithaca has reached even as far as Troy itself which, I am told,
+lies far from Hellas."
+
+Odysseus was overjoyed to find that he was in his own country. But
+he did not venture to tell his name to the shepherd, nor whence he
+came. Instead of that he told a long story that he came from Crete,
+which he had been obliged to leave because he had killed the King's
+son, who had robbed him.
+
+Athena smiled and, assuming the form of a beautiful woman, took him
+by the hand and said: "Thou crafty man, why dost thou tell such lies?
+Dost thou not know Athena, daughter of Zeus, who has protected thee
+everywhere and saved thee from all danger? I have just come again
+to assist thee in hiding thy treasures and to tell thee what thou
+must encounter in thine own palace. But thou must not repeat anything
+which I tell thee, nor make thyself known to any man or woman. And
+thou must bear many indignities in silence until the right time comes,
+for there are many violent men in thy halls."
+
+Odysseus's heart was filled with joy. He knelt down and kissed the
+soil of his native land. "Tell me, is it true," he said, "that I am
+in my own beloved Ithaca? I pray thee, goddess, do not jest with me."
+
+"Thy native land! Such ever is thy thought," answered the goddess.
+"Any other man would have hastened with all speed to his wife and
+home. But thou must wait and come not at once into the presence of
+Penelope. She sits within thy palace, weeping night and day because
+thou dost not come. Hide thy gifts here in this grotto, and I will
+tell thee what to do next."
+
+With a glad heart Odysseus saluted the nymphs of the cave and spring:
+"Hail to you, nymphs of my native land, daughters of Zeus! I thought
+I should never see you again. I shall bring you rich gifts in days
+to come, if it please Athena to keep me from harm." After he had carried
+the presents into the grotto and carefully hidden them, he sat down
+with the goddess among the gnarled roots of the olive-tree, and they
+laid plots to destroy Penelope's impudent suitors. Athena told him
+about the trouble they had caused her; how they had established
+themselves in her own home, trying to win her for a wife. For three
+years the noble Penelope had kept these arrogant men in suspense,
+deluded with empty hopes, while she waited for her husband's return.
+When Odysseus heard these words he was greatly disturbed, and said:
+"Woe is me! I might have been slain in my own home but for these timely
+words. Now I am forearmed. Stand by me, I pray, in my great need,
+and give me strength to meet my enemies. If thou art my helper, I
+can resist, single-handed, three hundred foes."
+
+"Take courage," said the goddess. "But to carry out our plans I must
+change thee to a miserable old man with a wrinkled face and clad in
+ragged garments, so that no one can recognize thee.
+
+"Then must thou go to thy faithful swineherd, Eumaios, who loves thy
+wife and child and thy whole house.
+
+"Thou wilt find him as he feeds the swine on acorns in a field near
+the mountain, Korax, and the spring, Arethusa. He will tell thee all
+the doings in thy house. Meantime I will take my way to Sparta.
+Telemachos, thy son, is there. He went to visit Menelaos and try to
+find out if there were any news of thee. I will call him to return
+to Ithaca."
+
+The goddess touched Odysseus with her magic wand. At once he shrank
+and withered into a wrinkled, shabby, old beggar. Then she gave him
+a staff and a tattered sack and sent him to his loyal swineherd while
+she took her way to Sparta.
+
+[Illustration: ALPHEUS AND ARETHUSA]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVIII
+ODYSSEUS SEEKS THE SWINEHERD
+
+
+Odysseus left the haven by a narrow stony path and took his way to
+the dwelling of his faithful swineherd, who thought more of the
+welfare of his master than did all the rest of the servants whom
+Odysseus had. He found him seated in the yard which he himself had
+made of stone for the swine of the absent King, and had enclosed with
+a thick hedge of thorns. He had driven strong posts of oak around
+it, also. Inside the yard he had made twelve sties, and in each sty
+there were fifty sows with their little ones. The males were kept
+outside and were fewer in number, for Eumaios was compelled to send
+a very fat one to the suitors every day, and therefore there were
+only eighteen score.
+
+Near them were four large savage dogs as guards. They were more like
+wolves than dogs. Eumaios was busy making a pair of sandals from an
+ox-hide, for his own use. The other swineherds had gone on errands,
+three of them to drive pigs to pasture, while the fourth had taken
+a hog to the suitors in the city.
+
+When the dogs saw Odysseus they barked and rushed upon him, and they
+would have torn him to pieces, but Eumaios drove them off with stones
+and said: "Thou poor old man, the dogs came very near tearing thee
+limb from limb, and that would have been a great shame and sorrow
+to me.
+
+"The gods have already sent me trouble enough. Here I sit weeping
+and mourning for my beloved master, and take care of his swine in
+order that strangers may eat them. Who knows where he may be wandering
+as a beggar among people who speak another tongue? But come, old man,
+let us go into my lodge and eat, and then thou mayest tell me who
+thou art and what misfortunes thou hast suffered."
+
+Odysseus followed the swineherd into the cabin. Eumaios threw an
+armful of rushes on the floor and covered it with a rug of goat-skin
+and bade his guest be seated.
+
+Odysseus was gratified at this kind reception, and said to the
+swineherd: "May Zeus and all the other immortal gods give thee, my
+host, all the good of earth for thy hospitality."
+
+The good swineherd answered him: "My guest, I should consider it a
+great sin not to receive a stranger hospitably, even if he looked
+more miserable than thou. Strangers and beggars are children of Zeus.
+The hospitality I can extend to thee is slight but sincere, for
+servants have little to offer, especially when, like me, they have
+new masters. Odysseus loved me much. Would that the gods might send
+him back to us. He would have paid me for my toil. He would have given
+me a home, a little land, and a wife. But he is dead. May the whole
+race of Helen be destroyed, for it was she who brought noble men to
+destruction."
+
+The swineherd drew his belt around him and hastened to the pen where
+the pigs were shut up. He seized two little pigs and slew them and
+roasted them on a spit over the fire. He sprinkled salt over the savory
+meat and brought it to Odysseus. And he brought delicate wine in a
+wooden cup, as well.
+
+Then he said: "Eat, stranger, for this is the best I have to give.
+The suitors, who fear neither god nor man, eat the fat hogs. They
+gorge themselves with the costliest food in the house, both wine and
+meat, and only these little lean porkers are left for us. Yet there
+is still an abundance, for my master was very rich. He had twelve
+herds of horned cattle and as many swine on the mainland, and twelve
+flocks of sheep and goats. Here, on the island, graze eleven flocks
+of goats, tended by as many trusty herdsmen, each of whom has to send
+a fattened goat for the table of the suitors every day. As for myself,
+I take care of these swine, and each day I choose the best to send
+to the city."
+
+Odysseus ate the flesh and drank the wine while Eumaios was telling
+him these things, and could hardly keep from giving vent to his anger.
+But he kept silence and meditated vengeance on the suitors. When the
+meal was done he said: "Tell me, I pray thee, all about thy rich and
+kind master. Thou didst say that he went out with Agamemnon to fight
+the Trojans. Perhaps I know him and can give thee some information
+concerning him."
+
+The noble swineherd answered: "Be silent, aged man, for we have ceased
+to believe the tales told us by wanderers. Every beggar who comes
+this way calls on my mistress and tells her falsehoods about seeing
+Odysseus, and tries to make her think that he will come home in a
+short time. Then she treats him kindly and loads him with gifts.
+
+"How shall we know but thou dost make up just such a story in order
+to receive a tunic and a mantle? It is a fact that my master does
+not return. Who knows on what spot of the earth his bones are
+mouldering, or what dogs and birds have devoured him? I shall never
+cease to grieve for him. He loved me as he would have loved a son.
+I shall never find such a kind master again. Even my father and mother
+were not so good to me. Although he will never be with us any more,
+I keep on doing his will."
+
+[Illustration: THE SWINEHERD TELLING HIS STORY TO ODYSSEUS]
+
+Odysseus replied: "Thou dost see that I am half naked for want of
+clothing, but I will never take a reward, even though I am in rags,
+until Odysseus is really here. I hate the wretch who tells lies to
+enrich himself as I hate death. I call Zeus to witness, and this
+hospitable board and the hearth of Odysseus, that what I tell thee
+will come true. Odysseus will be here at the end of this month, and
+he will be avenged on those men who have robbed him and insulted his
+wife and son."
+
+"And yet I will not give thee any reward for thy news, old man," said
+Eumaios, "for Odysseus is dead. He will never come again. Drink in
+peace and let us talk of other things. Do not take this great oath,
+as much as we wish--Laertes, Penelope, Telemachos, and I--that
+Odysseus might come. But now, as if we had not troubles enough, a
+new one has come upon us. I know not what evil demon put it into the
+mind of Telemachos to go to Sparta to inquire about his father. And
+the ungodly suitors have sent out a ship to watch for him, and kill
+him on his return. We shall lose him, too, if Zeus does not hold a
+protecting hand over him.
+
+"But tell me, dear old man, from what country dost thou come? Who
+are thy parents? Tell me of thy toils and sufferings."
+
+The time had not yet come when Odysseus thought it best to reveal
+himself. He wanted to stay with the swineherd until his son should
+return, and he had had the opportunity of making the best plan for
+ridding his house of the suitors. So he told the swineherd a long
+string of stories. He said he was a son of the King of Crete; that
+he went to Troy, where he met Odysseus and fought by his side.
+Returning, he wandered about, and, after many adventures, met
+Odysseus again getting ready to return to Ithaca. As for himself,
+he had been robbed even to his clothing and cast on this island.
+
+He told the tale so well that the swineherd believed him, and even
+killed a fat hog in his honor. And he made him welcome to his lodge
+and prepared a good bed for him near the fire, and covered him with
+goat-skins. The night was cold and damp, and a cutting wind was blowing
+outside. The other servants lay down near Odysseus to sleep, but
+Eumaios took a sharp sword and thick mantle and went out near the
+pens to watch the swine all night. Odysseus saw with gratitude how
+faithfully this servant attended to his duty.
+
+
+
+
+PART III
+THE TRIUMPH OF ODYSSEUS
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIX
+ATHENA ADVISES TELEMACHOS
+
+
+At the time when Odysseus was wrecked, after his comrades had eaten
+of the cattle of Helios, and he was cast up on to the island of Calypso,
+Athena prayed to Zeus, her mighty sire, that he might be restored
+to Ithaca, his native land. She prayed that Hermes, the messenger
+of the gods, might be sent to Calypso with the express command that
+she should send Odysseus home. Zeus smiled and granted the request.
+
+Then Athena tied golden sandals under her feet and taking a long,
+heavy spear, she rushed like a whirlwind down from the heights of
+Olympos and stood at the doorway of Odysseus' house, among the men
+of Ithaca. She found the haughty suitors assembled there eating and
+drinking.
+
+Telemachos saw the goddess before anyone else. She was disguised to
+resemble Mentor, a wise chief who had led the Taphians in the Trojan
+war. Telemachos rose at once, like a gracious host, and took the right
+hand of the stranger and gave him a hearty welcome. Athena saw with
+anger how the ungodly wooers ate and drank and rioted gluttonously,
+while the servants of Telemachos were obliged to administer to their
+wants. Some of them were kept mixing the wines and water in large
+craters; others had to clear and clean the tables, and others again
+prepared and carved the meats and carried them round to the suitors.
+
+Telemachos led the stranger away from this noisy hall, that he might
+not be annoyed by their boisterous behavior. He bade him sit down
+on a throne, and placed a foot-stool under his feet. Then he drew
+his own chair from among the suitors and sat near the stranger, hoping
+to hear news of his absent father. A maid brought a silver pitcher
+and basin and let the stranger wash his hands. A table was placed
+before him, laden with the choicest viands, while a herald filled
+a goblet with wine for him. When they had enjoyed their meal,
+Telemachos asked the stranger his name and country.
+
+"I am Mentor, son of the Taphian King," said Athena. "I came here
+in my ship with a crew of friends, on a journey to the Isle of Cyprus,
+in search of copper, and I brought iron to give in exchange. I am
+an old friend of Odysseus. I have left my ship in the bay, back of
+the forest. Laertes will tell thee who I am. It is said that he does
+not come to the palace any more, but lives alone in the country,
+mourning over the loss of his son day and night. It seems that the
+gods have long delayed Odysseus. Who knows where he is? I am sure
+that he is not dead. And now tell me, what feast is going on here,
+and who are these men? Are they invited guests? Is it a banquet I
+see, or is there to be a wedding? It is not a pleasant sight in any
+case, for the men are coarse in their actions and ungodly in their
+speech. Every friend of Odysseus must feel sad to see them in this
+place."
+
+"As long as my father was here," answered Telemachos, "our house was
+respectable and rich. But the gods have forsaken us, and we are
+destined to destruction. No news of my father's death has ever reached
+us; nevertheless, all the young men of the first families of Ithaca
+and the surrounding isles flock to our house and seek my mother for
+a wife and squander my father's riches. My mother does not favor the
+idea of another marriage, and has not promised herself to any of the
+suitors. She fears them, and so she does not reject their suits, yet
+she will not end the trouble by marrying one of them. They will not
+go away, but make themselves at home here and eat up my inheritance.
+They only want a favorable opportunity to kill me."
+
+Athena grew angry at this, and said: "I would that Odysseus might
+come this very moment to chastise these atrocious fellows. Woe to
+them if he should appear at the door with his helmet and shield and
+two tough spears, just as he looked when I first beheld him in my
+own home. Then these suitors would find a bitter marriage-feast and
+a speedy end. Vengeance, however, rests with the gods.
+
+"Now, let me consider the best way to get these suitors out of the
+house. As an old friend of thy father, let me advise thee. To-morrow
+call thy people together in council and tell the suitors to depart.
+If thy mother has any inclination to wed again, send her to her
+father's house. He is rich and powerful, and can give her a splendid
+wedding, such as is suitable for the daughter of a king, and bestow
+an ample dower.
+
+"Then launch thy finest ship. Man it with twenty good oarsmen and
+put out to sea in search of thy father. Sail to Pylos first and consult
+with Nestor, and go to Sparta next and see Menelaos, who has returned
+from Troy recently. Stay with him awhile if he can assure thee that
+thy father lives. But if he tells thee that thy father is surely dead,
+return as quickly as possible and build a mound to him, and cause
+the altar to be piled high with sacrifices and the funeral games to
+take place. Then let thy mother marry again.
+
+"Thou art no longer a child, and it is not seemly to allow such
+indignities. Be brave and act without fear, that men may honor thee.
+When thou hast performed these deeds, let thy care be to drive out
+the suitors. But now I must return to my ship, for my companions will
+be uneasy over my long absence."
+
+"Thou hast spoken to me as a father speaks to a son," answered
+Telemachos. "I shall bear thy words in mind. And now I pray thee stay
+awhile to rest and bathe. I cannot let thee go to thy ship without
+some handsome gift, such as one always bestows upon an honored guest."
+
+"Telemachos, do not detain me longer," replied Athena. "I must depart
+at once. Keep thy gift until I return, and then I will take it to
+my home." She vanished as she spoke, and all that Telemachos saw was
+a fleet-winged bird flying upward high in the air. Telemachos was
+astonished, and knew that he had been talking face to face with some
+deity. He thought over all that the goddess had told him, and resolved
+to do exactly as he had been instructed.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXX
+TELEMACHOS ASTONISHES THE WOOERS
+
+
+The feast continued. The wooers ate and drank but were silent, for
+an illustrious bard was singing to them of the Trojan war. Telemachos
+walked forth in the midst of them, his heart inspired with courage.
+Penelope had heard the song as she sat in her chamber over the hall,
+and she came down the lofty stairway attended by two maids. She
+implored the bard, with tears to change the song, since it was the
+one most sacred to her and made her sad.
+
+Then said Telemachos: "My mother, let thy heart be strong to bear
+this song which all men love. The bard must sing the song with which
+he is inspired. Retire now, I pray thee, to thy room, and take thy
+maids with thee. There teach them to spin and weave--a task meet for
+a princess. But leave to me the ordering of the feast and the care
+of the suitors. Such a duty belongs to a man, and the authority is
+mine." Penelope was amazed at his words. She withdrew to her own rooms
+with her attendants and wept and mourned for her absent lord until
+she fell asleep.
+
+When the minstrel had finished his song, the suitors began to be noisy
+and riotous again. Telemachos could no longer restrain himself. "Ye
+insolent suitors of my mother," he said to them, "cease your uproar.
+Your lawlessness knows no bounds. To-morrow I will call a general
+assembly of all the Ithacans and warn you to depart. If ye remain
+in my house wasting my goods and eating food that is not your own
+I will call down vengeance from the gods, and ye shall die in this
+very palace."
+
+The suitors were astonished at his courage and his words. He had never
+before spoken out with authority. Antinoos and Eurymachos, the most
+insolent of them, began to ridicule him and excite the others to make
+fun of him. And they asked Telemachos what guest he had been
+entertaining so secretly and what news he had brought from his father.
+The suitors danced and sang, eating and drinking, until evening,
+before they went home.
+
+Telemachos then sought his own couch. His old nurse, Eurycleia, led
+the way with two torches. She had been a faithful servant since Laertes,
+in his early manhood, had bought her for the price of a hundred oxen.
+
+Telemachos sat down on his bed, and removing his tunic handed it to
+the nurse, who folded it and smoothed it and hung it up. He lay down
+and covered himself with soft fleeces, while Eurycleia went out and
+carefully locked the door. But sleep did not come to him. All night
+he thought of what the coming day would bring.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXI
+PENELOPE'S WEB
+
+
+The next morning, at dawn of day, Telemachos rose from his bed and
+put on his garments. He hung his sword over his shoulder and fastened
+his sandals on his feet and strode bravely forth. He summoned his
+heralds at once and bade them call a council of the Ithacans. The
+people came at the appointed time, and Telemachos, sceptre in hand,
+took his place before the assembly and called it to order.
+
+"I have not summoned you, my friends," he said, "in order that ye
+may see some entertaining show, but out of dire necessity. I bring
+no news of war and I have nothing to say that concerns the public
+good. You all know the grief which has befallen me on account of my
+father, your king and leader, who loved you as a parent loves his
+children. But Odysseus is gone and there is no hope of his return.
+This misfortune is not enough, for every day the young men of the
+leading families of Ithaca and the surrounding isles meet in my house
+and vex my mother with unseemly and importunate offers of marriage.
+
+"There they are now installed, eating our food, drinking our wine,
+and wasting our money, for Odysseus is not here to drive them out.
+I have no way of expelling them from my home. My friends, consider
+these wrongs and help me to drive these robbers from the house of
+your king. It would be a shame to the people of Ithaca if it were
+noised around that they left the son of their chief in the hands of
+plunderers without giving him help."
+
+Thus spoke Telemachos, the tears running down his cheeks, and he threw
+the sceptre on the ground. The people were greatly moved, and felt
+pity for the youth who had to suffer such wrongs, but they were silent.
+Only Antinoos, the most insolent of the suitors, took up the word
+and said: "Shameless Telemachos, how dost thou dare to chide us for
+this state of things! Thy mother is the one to blame. She has been
+leading us on for three whole years. She is skilful and crafty. She
+promised, three years ago, to choose one of us for a husband as soon
+as she should finish the winding-sheets for old Laertes in case of
+his death.
+
+"Then she began to weave upon her loom a dainty web of vast length
+and width. And she said to each one of us: 'Do not urge me to marry,
+I pray, until I finish these shrouds for the hero Laertes, when his
+hour of death shall come. I have spun an abundance of fine thread,
+and it must not be wasted. Besides that, the dames of Greece would
+speak ill of me if I should leave my husband's father without a shroud,
+for he has had great wealth all his life.' In this way Penelope gave
+us hope, and we were too generous to persist in forcing her to choose
+at once.
+
+"She went on in this way, weaving the great web by day, and every
+night she unravelled by torchlight all that she had woven by sunlight.
+She has deceived us long enough. We have discovered her fraud; for
+a woman who has seen her unravelling the web has told us all about
+it. She must finish the work and make her choice among her suitors.
+If thou dost wish us to leave thy house, thou shalt send thy mother
+to her parents and let her father command her to marry one of us,
+according to her choice. When this is done no one will disturb thee
+any longer.
+
+"If, however, Penelope prefers to treat the noble sons of Greece with
+such malice and craft, we will go right on consuming thy goods. She
+will thus make a great name for herself, but she will impoverish thee."
+
+"I shall never send my mother away from her husband's house," rejoined
+Telemachos. "Living or dead, my father is in distant lands, and if
+I should dismiss his wife of my own will, I should invite the hatred
+of the gods on my guilty head. She would call upon the Furies to haunt
+me; all men would curse me; and her father would demand ample
+satisfaction of me. I will never speak the word to send her forth.
+Now, get you gone and cease squandering my riches or I will call down
+the wrath of the gods on you."
+
+Having said this, Telemachos sat down, and Zeus sent two eagles flying
+over the heads of the wooers, close to each other. They looked down
+upon the crowd of people and tore each other's heads and vanished.
+The Ithacans saw the deadly omen, and a venerable prophet among them
+stood up and said: "Noble youths, I advise you seriously to depart
+from this royal house, for this is a sign that Odysseus is coming
+home. Woe to you if he finds you in his palace. You will all meet
+a direful end."
+
+Eurymachos answered him: "Old man, keep thy advice and thy forebodings
+for thine own children. We do not need them. Advise Telemachos to
+change his mind and send his mother home to her father, instead of
+prating foolishly to us. As long as he keeps her here we shall continue
+to consume his wealth, until he has nothing left. And we will punish
+thee severely if thou dost incite this young man to violence."
+
+Telemachos, thinking it best to be discreet, replied: "Now hear me,
+Eurymachos, and all ye suitors. Give me a good ship and twenty men,
+that I may go from land to land in search of my father. If I find
+that he lives and may return, I will wait one year longer for him
+to reach home. But if I hear that he is not alive, I will come back
+and build a mound to his memory and give him a funeral worthy of such
+a king. Then shall my mother make her choice and wed."
+
+Mentor, the stanch friend and adviser of Odysseus, sat among the
+Ithacans in the assembly. When he saw how Telemachos was put to shame,
+he grew angry. He rose to his feet, and addressed the people: "No
+king ever again should be wise and good. He should be hard and unjust,
+since no one of you has enough love for Odysseus to stand by his son.
+I am less ashamed of the impudent suitors, than I am of the weaklings
+who see what they are doing and who dare not interfere."
+
+"Foolish old Mentor," said one of the suitors, "what art thou saying!
+If Odysseus, himself, should come hither, he would not be able to
+drive us out. If anyone thinks himself strong enough to do it, let
+him try it. Ye Ithacans disperse to your homes, and leave Mentor to
+provide the boy with a ship." So saying he dispersed the crowd, and
+the wooers all went into the palace to continue their revelry.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXII
+THE JOURNEY OF TELEMACHOS
+
+
+Telemachos left the assembly and went down to the sea-shore alone,
+and washing his hands in the surf called on the goddess who had
+appeared to him the day before to come to his assistance. At once
+Athena stood by his side in the guise and with the voice of Mentor.
+She urged him to hasten his journey. Telemachos took new courage,
+and returned at once to his house where he found his old nurse,
+Eurycleia, alone. He revealed to her his intention, and asked her
+to assist him in getting everything ready for the journey. He bade
+her draw twelve jars of the best wine, and twelve skins of the finest
+meal to put aboard the ship.
+
+When the old nurse heard this she wept and beat her breast. "Dear
+child," she said, "who has put such a thought into thy mind? Why
+shouldst thou, an only son and well beloved, wander off to a distant
+land? Be warned by what thy father had to suffer because he left his
+own country. The suitors will plot to kill thee and divide thy wealth.
+Stay here, at home; there is no need that thou shouldst venture over
+the fearful sea."
+
+Telemachos answered her: "Take courage, my good nurse; this journey
+is advised of a god. Do not let my mother know of my departure for
+eleven or twelve days, lest she weep and mourn."
+
+The nurse promised most solemnly that she would keep his secret and
+execute his orders. She drew the wine into the jars and filled the
+strong skins with meal. Meantime, Athena, blue-eyed goddess, taking
+the form of Telemachos, went through the city and urged the men to
+repair to the ships at sundown, for she had chosen the best boats
+in Ithaca for the youth, and found for him a crew that was glad to
+serve him.
+
+Then the blue-eyed maid went to the palace and poured sleep upon the
+eyelids of the drunken suitors. They gladly sought their beds in their
+own homes. Taking the form of Mentor, she next appeared to Telemachos
+and bade him follow her to the beach. When they reached the galley,
+he found his comrades waiting. They hurried up to the palace for the
+wine and meal, which they soon brought to the ship and stored in the
+hold. Then the crew slipped the cables which held the ship to the
+shore. Athena took her seat at the stern and Telemachos sat near her.
+The sails were spread and the sailors began to ply their oars. Athena
+raised a favorable breeze and the vessel glided forward cutting her
+way through the roaring waters.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXIII
+TELEMACHOS IN PYLOS
+
+
+At sunrise the ship arrived at Pylos. The people of that town were
+all assembled on the shore, where they were sacrificing coal-black
+oxen to Poseidon. Some were burning fat upon the altar, and others
+were distributing food among those who were offering up the sacrifices,
+while all were eating.
+
+The Ithacans touched land. Telemachos and Athena disembarked,
+leaving the crew to guard the ship, and went up to the crowd. On the
+way Athena cheered Telemachos and advised him what to say to the people.
+When they had come near enough to the inhabitants to be seen by them,
+the people rose and came to meet the strangers. First of all, the
+son of Nestor, Peisistratos, approached and took each of them by the
+hand and led them to the feast. He bade them be seated near his father
+and brought them the choicest meat.
+
+After the strangers had eaten, Peisistratos filled a golden goblet
+with wine, and handed it to Mentor, as the elder. Mentor was pleased
+with the young man's good breeding and he took the goblet and poured
+out a part of it on the ground as a sacrifice to Poseidon, with a
+prayer for a safe return. Then he handed the goblet to Telemachos,
+and he did likewise.
+
+When the feast was over, Nestor, the King of Pylos, said to his guests:
+"The time has come, dear strangers, when it is fitting to ask your
+names, and from what land you come. Do you roam the seas as pirates,
+or do you come on an errand?"
+
+"We are Greeks," said Telemachos. "We come from Ithaca to seek tidings
+of my father, the unfortunate Odysseus, who went to war against Troy
+with thee and the other Greek chiefs. We have never heard anything
+of him during all these long years and do not know whether he is living
+or dead. I pray thee tell me anything thou may'st know about him,
+and conceal nothing."
+
+"My son," Nestor replied, "thou dost call to mind the great sufferings
+borne by the men of Greece ere we succeeded in conquering Priam's
+town. It would take years to tell thee of the brave deeds of the Greeks,
+how they fought and where they fell. We passed nine years in worrying
+the enemy, and there was no man who gave better counsel or performed
+nobler deeds than did Odysseus. Art thou then his son? I look on thee
+in wonder. Yes, thou art like him. How strange to hear so young a
+man speak as he did!
+
+"After the destruction of Troy, the surviving Greeks embarked, and
+we set out for home. But when we reached Tenedos, thy father returned
+to Troy to join Agamemnon and the others, who had stayed behind, to
+appease the wrath of Athena, for a Greek had committed sacrilege in
+her temple.
+
+"Our voyage was prosperous, and we all reached home except Menelaos,
+who wandered about in Crete and Egypt for a long time. It is said
+that the noble son of Achilles returned home safely, and that
+Agamemnon was slain in his own house, and his son took vengeance on
+his murderers. There is a rumor, too, that many suitors hang about
+thy mother, and, in spite of thy remonstrances, consume thy riches.
+Be brave, my son, and yield not. Odysseus may come again. Go at once
+to Menelaos, for he may have news of thy father. I will give thee
+swift horses and a chariot, and my sons will drive."
+
+All day Telemachos discoursed with Nestor, and when the sun went down,
+they poured wine on the earth and burned an offering to the gods.
+Telemachos and Mentor arose to retire to their ship, but Nestor begged
+them to be his guests and go to the royal palace. Mentor, as the elder
+of the two, excused himself, in order to join the crew, and suddenly
+disappeared. Nestor recognized that Telemachos was attended by the
+goddess, and offered a prayer to her. The assembly dispersed, and
+Nestor, with his guest and his sons, retired to his palace.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXIV
+TELEMACHOS IN SPARTA
+
+
+Before the sun was fairly up, they all arose and seated themselves
+on the smooth stone benches that loomed up in the gloaming, white
+and shining, before the gates of the palace. Nestor bade one of his
+sons to prepare an offering to Athena, of the best heifer in the fields.
+He sent another son to call a skilled workman to plate the heifer's
+horns with gold, and two others yet to bring the crew from the ship.
+He told the remaining two sons to bid the maids prepare a sumptuous
+feast in honor of their guest.
+
+In a moment there was a busy scene. The heifer was brought up from
+the fields, and her horns were adorned with pure gold in hopes that
+Athena would see it and be pleased. The sailors came from the ship,
+except two who were left as guards. The heifer was slain and parts
+were burned as an offering to the goddess, and cakes and wine also
+were thrown into the flames to complete the sacrifice. They roasted
+the flesh on long iron forks with five prongs, and feasted upon it.
+
+Then Nestor said to his sons: "Bring now the chariot and horses and
+let our guest depart in search of news concerning his renowned
+father." The horses were soon harnessed to the car, which was stored
+with wine and bread and dainties fit for a prince. Telemachos climbed
+into the seat. Peisistratos took his place beside him and grasped
+the reins. The horses dashed off in high spirit, and Pylos was soon
+left in the distance. All day the horses sped along. At night they
+rested by the way and early the next morning went on again as swiftly
+as before. As the sun went down they found themselves in Sparta, the
+land of plenty, and at the gates of Menelaos, the king.
+
+Here they found many guests assembled at the wedding banquet of
+Hermione, the daughter of Menelaos. That day she had been given as
+a bride to Neoptolemos, the son of Achilles. A minstrel was playing
+a harp and singing, while two dancers performed graceful feats to
+give life to the feast.
+
+One of the attendants of Menelaos saw the strangers drive up, and
+stepped out to see who was coming. Then he hastened back to Menelaos
+and told him that two strangers of princely bearing were at the palace
+gate, and asked if he should unharness their horses or send them on
+their way. Menelaos was vexed that any of his servants should be so
+lax in hospitality, and told him he had acted like a foolish child,
+and reminded him of the gifts that had been showered on them when
+they wandered so long in foreign lands. And he bade him hasten to
+unharness the steeds, and give them oats and barley, and bid the
+strangers welcome to the feast.
+
+Telemachos and Peisistratos were amazed at the beauty of the palace.
+They bathed in the marble baths, rubbed themselves with oil and put
+on the splendid tunics that were brought them. After that they entered
+the great hall, where each was seated on a throne near the king. A
+handmaid brought a golden pitcher and a silver bowl for their hands,
+and a table was placed before them laden with choice food. When they
+had eaten enough, golden beakers of wine were handed them, and then
+the monarch gave his hand to each of them, saying: "Ye have come in
+good time, my friends. As soon as ye have finished your feast, I will
+ask your names and whence ye come, for ye look like sons of kings."
+
+As they sat there Telemachos, bending his head toward Peisistratos,
+said, in a low tone, so that he thought no one else would hear: "Surely,
+O son of Nestor, the Olympian home of Zeus himself could not be more
+glorious than this palace. See the gold and ivory, and shining brass.
+These things are beyond price in richness." Menelaos caught the words,
+although he spoke so low, and said: "My sons, there is no palace that
+can compare with the home of the gods. The riches which you look at
+in astonishment I collected while wandering in Egypt and in Crete.
+I find no pleasure in them, however, for I found my brother, King
+Agamemnon slain when I reached home. Would that the men who fought
+before Troy had their share of this wealth! I often weep and mourn
+for them in my palace, and am unable to eat or sleep on account of
+the misery I have brought upon my friends.
+
+"For none of them do I mourn so much as I do for Odysseus, who suffered
+the most of all on my behalf. I would gladly give all my wealth, if
+I only knew him to be safe. But we do not know whether he is dead
+or living. How much his old father must have grieved for him. How
+many tears his wife, Penelope, must have shed, and his high-minded
+son, Telemachos, what sorrow he has suffered."
+
+New despair filled the heart of Telemachos, and tears fell from his
+eyes. He held his purple mantle to hide his grief and wept in silence.
+When Menelaos saw this, he at once suspected that the young man was
+no other than the sorrowing son of Odysseus, and he felt perplexed
+for want of suitable words. He could not decide whether to question
+him about his father, or to wait and let the youth speak out of his
+own will.
+
+Just then Helen entered the hall from her high-roofed chamber, looking
+like a goddess in her dazzling beauty. She sat down at her husband's
+feet, while servants ran to bring the mat which she was weaving and
+the distaff filled with fine-spun purple thread. Her fingers flew
+over the dainty work while she questioned the king: "Didst thou ask
+the strangers their names? It is not possible that there can be any
+man so like to Odysseus except his son, as is this youth! I see him
+with astonishment. His father left him at home a little babe, when
+the Greeks went forth to war for my sake. Is it not true that this
+is Telemachos?"
+
+Menelaos replied: "My wife, I think thou hast spoken truly. The young
+man has the hands, the feet, and the features of Odysseus, and he
+cannot hide his grief at the mention of that hero's name."
+Peisistratos took up the word and said: "He is, indeed, the son of
+Odysseus, O king! My father, Nestor, sent me with him to inquire what
+you might know of the long-lost chieftain, and to beg you to give
+him advice, for he has to suffer great wrongs in his house and there
+is no one to assist him."
+
+Menelaos was heartily glad to hear that his guest was really
+Telemachos. But the remembrance of his old friend overcame him and
+he wept bitter tears. "I thought when I was in Troy," he said, "that
+I should one day welcome Odysseus to my home. I would have given him
+land and cities and brought to Sparta all his people and his wealth.
+Then we would always have lived close together and nothing could have
+parted us. But he has never returned." The tears fell from his eyes
+and Helen wept as well. Peisistratos then said to Menelaos: "Son of
+Atreus, my father says that thou art good and wise. Let us not, I
+entreat, continue this sad discourse, since this is a day that should
+not be given to lamentations. I lost a brother, also, at Troy. But
+we will honor these heroes at a proper time, with tears and by cutting
+off our locks. Let us not spoil the feast with mourning."
+
+They spent the rest of the day in making the festival as cheerful
+as if there were no grief to be hidden, and when night came the Argive
+Helen ordered the servants to prepare beds for them in the portico
+and cover them with tapestries, while she poured for them a soothing
+wine and dismissed them to their slumbers. The heralds led them to
+their couches, where they found a welcome rest.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXV
+MENELAOS RELATES HIS ADVENTURES
+
+
+The next morning Menelaos rose from his couch very early, put on his
+garments, hung his sword over his shoulder, laced his sandals, and
+went into his hall looking like a god. He sat down near Telemachos,
+and asked him to tell him frankly why he had come to Sparta.
+
+Telemachos then told him of the evil deeds of the suitors, and besought
+him to give him every possible clew to his father's whereabouts.
+Menelaos was indignant over the young man's wrongs.
+
+"Shame on the cowards who wish to rule over thy father's house," he
+said. "Let Odysseus return and he will tear them to pieces as a lion
+tears a young deer. Grant, O father Zeus, and Athena, and Apollo,
+that Odysseus may yet give those ungodly suitors a bitter wedding
+feast. But I will tell thee of my travels and what was told me by
+the Ancient Spirit of the sea.
+
+"It happened that the gods detained me many days in Egypt to sacrifice
+and do penance, for I had forgotten to make proper offerings to them.
+The island of Pharos lies just off the coast of Egypt. There I remained
+until the daughter of the Ancient Sea King, seeing my distress, came
+to my rescue.
+
+"My men and I had wandered over the island in search of food until
+we were nearly starved, when she discovered us, and told us that our
+efforts would be useless unless we consulted with her father. 'If
+thou canst ensnare him and hold him in thy grasp,' she said, 'he will
+tell thee how to reach thy home. He is a seer, and can tell thee all
+that has taken place there during thy absence. At noon-tide he comes
+out from the ocean caves covered with brine, and lies down among the
+sea-calves, rank with the smell of salt. He counts them five at a
+time, and then he stretches himself out among them and goes to sleep.
+He is very shrewd, and when thou hast caught him he will struggle
+and take all sorts of forms to escape thee. He will turn into a reptile,
+and into fire and then will change to water. But hold him fast, and
+when he looks as he did when first perceived by thee, ask him how
+to find thy home.'
+
+"The next morning, I sought the aged sea-god as I had been bidden.
+I took three old comrades whom I knew to be trusty, and we went down
+into the depths of the sea. The goddess brought us four fresh hides
+that had just been taken from sea-calves newly slaughtered, and we
+dressed ourselves in them to deceive her father. She scooped out
+places for us to lie in on the sands and we waited for him to come.
+The smell was sickening and beyond endurance, so the goddess put
+ambrosia under our noses. When the sun was highest in the heavens,
+the sea-calves came in groups and ranged themselves around in rows
+on the sand. The old seer came out and counted all, and did not notice
+our fraud. Then he lay down to sleep. At once, we rushed upon him
+and caught him. He began to take all kinds of shapes. First, he was
+a lion; then a serpent, a panther, a boar, a fountain of water, and
+a tree. We held on until he was tired of trying to escape.
+
+"At last he took his proper form, and began to question me. 'Son of
+Atreus,' he said, 'who hath taught thee how to make me a prisoner?
+What is it thou wouldst know?' 'Tell me what god is angry with me,
+O Proteus,' I replied. 'Why am I detained on this island? Why can
+I not reach my home?' 'Thou didst not make acceptable sacrifices to
+Zeus,' said Proteus. 'And thou wilt never see thy home again until
+thou hast offered up a hundred oxen to the immortal gods.'
+
+"'I will perform that rite speedily, oh prophet,' I replied. 'But
+tell me about my comrades in the Trojan war. Did they reach home in
+safety?'
+
+"Then Proteus told me all; how Ajax died amid his ships; how Agamemnon
+was slain in his own hall; and of Laertes' son he said that he had
+seen him sitting in a grotto on Calypso's Isle. There upon the rocks
+or at the ocean-side he weeps and mourns day after day, and gazes
+out upon the deep. His comrades are lost, and he has no ship with
+which to return to Ithaca. And after he had spoken he plunged into
+the sea while I returned to my ships, offered up the hundred oxen
+to Zeus and sailed for home. And now, Telemachos, I pray thee remain
+awhile with me, and I will dismiss thee with a chariot and swift horses,
+and a cup of priceless worth with which to pour libations to the gods."
+
+Telemachos took new courage when he heard that his father still lived,
+and begged that he might go back at once to Pylos to join his crew.
+In a moment all were busy in the palace of Menelaos preparing gifts
+and a feast that the youths might depart on the morrow.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXVI
+THE CONSPIRACY OF THE SUITORS
+
+
+One day while Telemachos was in Sparta, the guest of Menelaos, the
+suitors were more riotous than usual. They diverted themselves in
+the palace of Odysseus by throwing the discus and javelin. Only
+Antinoos and the handsome Eurymachos kept apart from them. Then Noemon,
+who had given Telemachos his ship a few days before, approached them
+and said: "Antinoos, I would gladly know when Telemachos will return
+from Pylos. I lent him my ship, and I need it for I intend to go to
+Elis, where I have business."
+
+The suitors were completely taken by surprise, for they had not heard
+that Telemachos had gone to Pylos. They thought that he was out at
+the farm with his swineherd. Antinoos asked: "When did Telemachos
+sail, and what crew did he take? Did he use force in getting thy ship
+or didst thou lend it willingly?"
+
+"He was welcome to the ship," replied Noemon. "Who would not have
+done such a service to a man who has had so much to endure? The young
+men who went with him belong to the best families of Ithaca." Noemon
+could not get any news of Telemachos, so he went home; but the suitors
+conspired to kill Telemachos. They decided that Antinoos should man
+a ship with a crew of twenty men, and lie in ambush in the waters
+near Ithaca, in order that they might catch Telemachos, on his return.
+
+This wicked plot of the suitors was betrayed to the queen, by her
+faithful herald, Medon. Penelope was overcome with grief, and wept
+bitterly, and her loyal attendants mourned with her. "What new grief
+is this which befalls me now?" she said. "Is it not enough that death
+has robbed me of my husband? Am I also to lose my only child, without
+even having seen him before his departure? Alas! why did no one tell
+me he was going, that I might have prevented his journey? Haste ye
+to Laertes and tell him what has happened, that he may make some plan
+to upset this plot to destroy his heir, the son of Odysseus."
+
+Then Eurycleia, the nurse, tried to console her with these soothing
+words: "My daughter, I will not hide the truth from thee any longer.
+I gave Telemachos a generous supply of food and wine, all that he
+could use on his journey. And I promised him solemnly that I would
+not tell thee of his departure, since he had a great dread that thou
+wouldst weep and mourn, and spoil thy lovely face and injure thy health.
+Now dry thy tears and bathe, and put on fresh robes. Then go to thine
+altar in the upper chamber with thy maids. There pray to Athena and
+burn incense to her. Do not alarm good old Laertes needlessly."
+
+Penelope followed the old nurse's advice. She went to the altar, at
+the highest part of the house, and there she prayed to Athena: "Hear
+me, daughter of Zeus! If ever my beloved husband has sacrificed to
+thee the fat limbs of oxen or sheep, and has built thee altars, save
+my son, Telemachos, and destroy the suitors, who fain would destroy
+him." The goddess heard her prayer, and sent sweet slumber and a
+pleasant dream to assuage her grief. In her sleep she saw her sister,
+who said to her: "Be of good cheer, Penelope; no harm will come to
+thy son, for a god goes with him." To her, the wise Penelope, yet
+dreaming, answered: "My sister, why is it thou hast never come to
+me before? Thy home is far away. I weep because I have lost my noble
+husband, and now his enemies conspire to slay my only son." The dream
+replied: "Take heart. Do not fear. Athena sent me to tell thee that
+she will protect thy son."
+
+"Oh, tell me," cried the queen, in her dreams, "tell me if my husband
+lives, since thou art sent by a goddess." But the shadow vanished
+through the closed door, and mingled with the air. Penelope awoke
+with a glad heart, cheered by the prophetic dream.
+
+In the meantime the suitors spoke among themselves, for they were
+too foolish to understand the spirit of the queen. "Surely," they
+said, "Penelope is making ready for her wedding. She does not suspect
+that we have planned to kill her son." "Do not deceive yourselves,
+my friends," said Antinoos. "Be silent and act." Then he chose twenty
+men, and they went down to a well-fitted ship, and took their places
+at the oars. They waited until it was dark, when they quietly rowed
+out into a narrow strait, through which, they thought, Telemachos
+was sure to sail on his return, and there they waited.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXVII
+TELEMACHOS RETURNS TO ITHACA
+
+
+Having encouraged Penelope, the goddess Athena sped to Sparta, where
+she found Telemachos, with Nestor's son, asleep upon the porch. She
+stood beside his bed, and warned him that he ought to return home,
+since Penelope's father had given her counsel to wed the richest of
+the suitors, and had promised a generous dower. "Do not delay," the
+goddess said to him; "no one can tell what a woman will do to help
+the man she is to marry.
+
+"And also beware of the suitors, whom thou hast offended. They lie
+in wait in the narrow passage between Samos and Ithaca. They hope
+to catch thee on thy way home and slay thee. Do not go that way. Sail
+only when it is dark. A god will watch over thee. When thou dost come
+to the first harbor in Ithaca, disembark, and let thy crew go on in
+the ship and take it back to the town. But thou shalt make thy way
+to the hut of thy loyal swineherd, and he will take tidings of thy
+safe return to thy mother."
+
+Athena said this and vanished. Telemachos turned to Peisistratos and
+said: "Let us arise and set forth on our journey with all haste, oh
+son of Nestor." But Peisistratos begged him to wait until it was fairly
+light. Menelaos had slept lightly, he was so agitated with the great
+event of seeing his beloved comrade's son, and he rose as soon as
+it was light. Telemachos heard him approaching, and hastily threw
+on his tunic and cloak and went to meet him.
+
+Telemachos urged a hasty departure and Menelaos did not think it
+proper to try to detain him. He said: "A host is hateful who is too
+affectionate. It is as wrong to keep a guest who is in a hurry to
+go as it is to thrust a stranger out when he wants to stay. Let me
+bring thee costly gifts, and when thou hast had thy morning meal I
+will hasten thee on thy way." The car was heaped with gifts, a golden
+goblet, a silver beaker, a robe that glistened with hand-wrought
+embroidery, the work of Helen, a goblet of silver with golden lips.
+Peisistratos gazed with wonder at their beauty as he placed them in
+the car.
+
+They washed their hands in a silver bowl and ate and drank from the
+bounty which had been placed before them. Then they mounted the car
+which had been brought to the palace gates. Nestor's son took the
+reins, Menelaos poured wine on the ground, an offering to the gods
+for their safety and prosperity, and off they sped over the plain.
+Two birds flew on before them, an eagle that had clutched a goose
+and bore it off in its talons, a sign that Odysseus would come and
+put an end to the suitors, and this omen cheered Telemachos.
+
+All day the horses bounded on shaking their splendid harness. The
+son of Nestor plied the lash. At night they rested in a friendly lodge
+and the second day they reached Pylos. They drove directly to the
+ship, lest Nestor, in his great love for his guest, should detain
+him. With an offering and a prayer to Athena he set sail. A prospering
+breeze swept over the sea and bore them rapidly along. At night
+Telemachos landed at the nearest port and sent the crew on to take
+the ship to the town.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXVIII
+TELEMACHOS AND THE SWINEHERD
+
+
+When daylight appeared Odysseus and Eumaios rose from their beds and
+sent the serving men out into the fields with their swine, but they
+themselves remained at home and prepared breakfast. In a little while
+they heard footsteps outside. The dogs pricked up their ears and
+wagged their tails without barking.
+
+Odysseus, perceiving this, said to the swineherd: "There must be some
+friend of thine coming, since the dogs do not bark." The words had
+hardly passed his lips when Telemachos entered the hut. Eumaios
+started to his feet and hastened to welcome his young master. He took
+him in his arms as a father would a son who had been away a long time,
+and kissed his face and hands.
+
+Tears dropped from his eyes and he said: "My dear Telemachos, I did
+not dare to hope ever to behold thee again. Come in that I may rejoice
+with all my heart at seeing thee once more enter my cabin after thy
+return from a strange country. Seldom dost thou come to see thy
+servants, for thou dost live in town, where thou must watch the suitor
+train consume thy wealth day by day."
+
+To this Telemachos made answer: "This is quite true, my father; but
+I come here to learn of thee how matters are at the palace. Is my
+mother there, or has some wooer won her for a bride?"
+
+"Thy mother is still at home," replied the sturdy swineherd. "She
+has a loyal heart, but she wastes her life in weeping." Saying this
+he took the lance from the young prince, who had come farther into
+the cabin. Odysseus arose to give him his seat, but Telemachos said
+to him: "Keep thy seat, stranger, I will sit elsewhere."
+
+Odysseus sat down again. The swineherd took an armful of twigs and
+covered it with fleeces, and Telemachos seated himself upon it. Next
+he brought bread and meat and set them before his young master, who,
+when he had eaten, asked his faithful servant who the stranger was
+and whence he came.
+
+"The stranger says that he came from Crete," answered Eumaios. "Lately
+he has run away from a ship where he was robbed, and has come here.
+I leave him to thee, however; do with him as thou dost like." "Thy
+words do not please me, Eumaios," said Telemachos. "How can I receive
+a stranger in my house, since I cannot protect him there if any of
+the godless wooers insult him. It would be better for him to stay
+here; and lest he be a burden to you I will send out food and clothes
+for him, and I will help him to go wherever he wishes."
+
+To him the sagacious Odysseus replied: "My friend, I hear with grief
+the story of thy wrongs. Art thou willing to let this go on? If I
+were as young as thou art I would lose my life before I would suffer
+such things--thy guests insulted, thy servants beaten, thy riches
+thrown away, thy food consumed by gluttons."
+
+"Thy words are sharp, dear stranger, and I shall answer them with
+the truth," said Telemachos. "Thou dost not yet understand that there
+is a great crowd of suitors; not simply five or ten. What can I do
+single-handed against such a multitude? But you, Eumaios, hasten to
+the city, secretly, and tell my mother that I have returned and am
+staying here. Then come back at once and let no one know where I am,
+for the lovers are plotting a bloody death for me." The swineherd
+hastily bound his sandals on to his feet, took his staff, and hurried
+off.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXIX
+TELEMACHOS RECOGNIZES ODYSSEUS
+
+
+It was not long after Eumaios had left the cabin when Athena, in the
+guise of a beautiful woman, appeared to Odysseus and beckoned him
+to come outside. Telemachos was opposite to her, but he did not see
+her, for the gods are not visible to all. Only Odysseus and the dogs
+were conscious of her presence. The dogs did not bark but ran into
+a corner of the cabin, crouching and whining. Odysseus left the room
+and stood before the goddess, who spoke to him in these words: "Son
+of Laertes, of noble birth and great wisdom, make thyself known to
+thy son. Tell him all the truth. Advise with him how to put an end
+to that insolent crowd of suitors. I shall never be far from thee
+myself and will help thee. I long to see them attacked."
+
+When she had finished speaking she touched Odysseus with her golden
+wand. That touch changed him instantly into a handsome, well-made
+man in the full vigor of robust manhood. His rags became seemly
+garments. His cheeks flushed with renewed health and the heavy beard
+on his chin grew dark again. After the goddess had done this she
+vanished and Odysseus went back into the lodge. His son glanced at
+him in amazement and then turned his eyes away from him lest he should
+irreverently look upon a god.
+
+"Stranger," he said, "I think thou art an immortal whose home is in
+the heavens, for thou hast been transformed in looks and garb. Let
+me bring a sacrifice and offer it to thee, together with beautiful
+gifts, and perhaps thou wilt be gracious to us and keep us from harm."
+
+Odysseus replied: "Nay, I am not a god, nor like the gods. I am thy
+father, he for whom thou hast mourned and endured so many sufferings."
+Saying this he kissed his son and wept.
+
+"I pray thee do not deceive me," said Telemachos. "Thou surely art
+a deity and not my father. No mortal could change from a ragged old
+beggar to a young and stately man in a moment."
+
+Odysseus answered him: "Telemachos, it is not like a son to gaze upon
+thy father with astonishment. No other Odysseus will ever come into
+this cabin. I am thy father. I have wandered twenty years in foreign
+lands, and now have come to my own home. Thou hast seen a miracle
+which Athena wrought, for she makes me look like a beggar or a king
+as she pleases. The gods have all power to put men in high places
+or to humble them."
+
+Odysseus sat down and his dear son approached him and threw his arms
+around him in a loving embrace, and together they wept tears of joy.
+At last Telemachos inquired: "Dear father, in what ship hast thou
+come, and what sailors brought thee hither? Thou couldst not have
+come on foot."
+
+"The Phaeacians brought me across the sea and left me sleeping on
+the shore in Ithaca," replied Odysseus. "And they gave me rich
+presents of gold, and silver, and brass, and embroidered garments
+hand-woven from their own looms.
+
+"These have I hidden, and Athena has sent me to advise with thee how
+best to destroy the arrogant crew of suitors that so long has robbed
+my house and vexed my wife. Tell me now how many there are and what
+kind of men, so that I can judge whether we two alone may attack them,
+or whether we need the help of others."
+
+"My father," answered Telemachos, "thy sweet fame has resounded
+through our halls, my whole life long. How often have I heard of thy
+courage and the strength of thy powerful arm. But how is it possible
+for us two to fight against such a multitude? Fifty-two of the wooers
+come from one town with six servants. Twenty-four come from Samos,
+and twenty more from Zakynthos, and twelve from Ithaca. If we attack
+them all I fear that we shall come to grief. It is better for us to
+look around and find an ally."
+
+Again Odysseus made reply: "Dear son, take courage. Zeus and Athena,
+most powerful of the gods, are on our side. Early to-morrow thou must
+go to the city and mingle with the suitors. The swineherd shall lead
+me disguised as an old beggar to my palace. Keep down thy wrath if
+the wooers speak insultingly to me. Do not resent it except to
+administer a gentle reproof, though they strike me with their spears
+and abuse me with bad language. The day of their death is at hand.
+When Athena gives me the sign, I will nod to thee and thou shalt remove
+my weapons from the great hall to an upper room. Tell the suspicious
+suitors that the arms gather too much dust where they now hang on
+the walls, and besides that, a god has warned thee that in their
+drunken brawls, the wooers may harm each other. Let no one know of
+my arrival, not even Laertes, Eumaios, or my wife, Penelope."
+
+All day the illustrious father and his son conversed and laid their
+plans. At noon they killed a yearling pig, and roasted it and made
+a hearty lunch. Once more Athena touched Odysseus with her wand and
+changed him into a poor old beggar, that Eumaios should not recognize
+him. At evening the swineherd returned. On entering his cabin he told
+his young master that the suitors had learned of his safe return to
+Ithaca. Then he prepared a supper for them, and they ate and drank
+to their hearts' content, when they retired to rest.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XL
+TELEMACHOS RETURNS TO THE PALACE
+
+
+Early the next morning Telemachos rose, tied his shining sandals under
+his feet, took his spear and stood ready to go to the city. He called
+the swineherd to him, and said: "Eumaios, I am going back to the town
+to see my mother. I know that she will not cease to be anxious about
+me until she sees me in my own home. Take this stranger there, too,
+where he may beg, and thus supply his wants. I cannot receive every
+poor man into my own house; my trials are too great. It makes no
+difference to me whether he likes it or not. I am forced to tell the
+truth about it."
+
+"My friend," said Odysseus, "I do not care to stay any longer. I think
+myself it is better for me to go to the city, where a beggar may have
+a fair chance. I am too old to be of service here. Go thy way, my
+son, and let thy servant lead me hence, as thou hast commanded. But
+let me first warm me at the fire, for I am cold and the way is long."
+
+Then Telemachos went out of the lodge and sped toward the city. His
+old nurse, Eurycleia, was the first to see him, and she ran out to
+welcome him, and the other servants came around rejoicing. Next came
+Penelope, as beautiful as Artemis, and threw her arms about her son,
+and kissed him on his brow and eyes. "Hast thou indeed returned,
+Telemachos, my son? I never hoped to see thee again. Tell me about
+thy father. Hast thou any news of him? What has happened? What hast
+thou seen?" So did the queen greet her son.
+
+"Dear mother, do not waken my grief again," Telemachos replied. "I
+have barely escaped a cruel death. But go to thy bath and put fresh
+garments on, and then pray to the gods and promise them great
+sacrifices if Zeus will avenge our wrongs." Penelope willingly did
+her son's bidding, but Telemachos betook himself to the market place
+to show himself to the people.
+
+When Telemachos came into the public square the suitors thronged
+around him with smooth speeches, but in their hearts they kept on
+plotting his death. He wanted them to see that he was in Ithaca, but
+he did not care to be in their company, so he took his place among
+some friends of his father. One of the crew came up to ask where he
+might deposit the splendid gifts of Menelaos, and Telemachos told
+him to hide them until the suitors had been defeated or had won the
+victory.
+
+Then Telemachos came back to the palace in company with a stranger
+who had joined his crew at Pylos, and they sat down near the queen,
+who was spinning. The servants brought them wine and food, and after
+they had eaten, Penelope begged that her son would recite to her the
+story of his journey. In the meantime Odysseus and Eumaios had started
+for the city. When they reached the spring where the citizens of the
+city went for water, they encountered Melanthios, a goatherd, driving
+goats into town. Two servants followed, helping him. As soon as he
+saw Eumaios and his guest, he said: "Look! There is one knave leading
+another. Verily, the gods bring like and like together. Thou miserable
+swineherd, whither dost thou take that worthless beggar, this
+vagabond who rubs his shoulders on every door-post, asking for crusts,
+eating gluttonously, and telling tales of woe?
+
+"Just hand him over to me to guard my stables and clean my yard, and
+I will give him whey to drink, which will fatten his limbs. But work
+does not suit such a fellow. He would rather ramble idly about and
+beg for food to fill his empty stomach. Let him once come to the palace
+of Odysseus and the guests that woo the queen will fling footstools
+at him." With that Melanthios kicked him in the thigh. Odysseus
+hesitated a moment and considered whether it were better to slay the
+goatherd with a blow from his staff, or whether he should submit to
+the indignity in silence. The latter seemed the better course.
+
+But Eumaios grew angry and said: "Melanthios, wait till Odysseus
+returns. He will give thee thy deserts, thou villain! All day long
+dost thou loaf in the city, leaving thy master's flocks to take care
+of themselves." Melanthios answered him: "Just hear what this cur
+has to say! I shall take him off and sell him for a slave some day.
+Would that Telemachos might die this moment under the hands of the
+suitors, and go down to Hades to join his father!" With these words
+he hurried off to the house of his master where he sat down among
+the crowd of wooers.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XLI
+ODYSSEUS IS RECOGNIZED BY HIS DOG
+
+
+After awhile Odysseus and Eumaios came to the house. As they drew
+near they waited a little to listen to the music, for a minstrel had
+begun a song, and while singing he played the lyre. "Surely, Eumaios,"
+said Odysseus, "anyone would know that this is the palace of a king.
+See how stately the structure is, and how spacious the court beyond
+the massive gates! And there are walls and towers and countless rooms.
+No one but Odysseus could have built such a fortress. I hear the sound
+of the lute and perceive the tempting odor of roasting meat, and there
+are crowds of guests coming and going. There must be a banquet within."
+
+Eumaios replied: "True, my friend, this is the house of Odysseus.
+Now, let us consider what we are to do. Shall I take the lead and
+go in first, or wilt thou go first and let me follow?" Odysseus, the
+sagacious, made answer: "Go in before me, and I will follow by and
+by."
+
+They were standing near the stable doors while talking. The filth
+from the stalls of the mules and oxen had been piled there by slovenly
+servants, who should have removed it day by day to fertilize the fields.
+There, on the unwholesome heap, a poor, neglected dog was lying,
+devoured by noxious insects and vermin. It was Argus, whom Odysseus
+himself had raised before he went to Troy. In times gone by, the young
+men of Ithaca had made him most useful in the chase. He had scented
+the stag, the hare, and the wild goat for them many a time. But now
+that he was old no one cared for him, and he was left to die.
+
+As soon as he saw Odysseus drawing near he pricked up his ears and
+wagged his tail. But he had not strength enough to get up and come
+to his master, although he moved as if he would gladly have done so.
+Odysseus saw this and burst into tears, but he turned his face away
+in hopes that Eumaios would not notice it.
+
+But the good swineherd saw it and so Odysseus questioned him: "Eumaios,
+what dog is this that lies upon this filth? He is well built, and
+surely is of a fine stock. Is he fleet in the chase or a mere house-dog
+kept for show?"
+
+"This dog, stranger," answered Eumaios, "belongs to my dear master.
+If thou hadst only seen him before Odysseus went to Troy thou wouldst
+have been astonished at his swiftness. He performed wonders in the
+chase. No wild animal was able to escape him. But his master has died
+far from home, and the careless servants will not even throw him a
+bone."
+
+The swineherd passed on into the hall where the suitors sat, but
+Odysseus stood looking at the faithful beast, the only creature that
+had recognized him. The joy of seeing his old master was too great,
+and Argus sank down and died.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XLII
+ODYSSEUS COMES, A BEGGAR, TO HIS OWN HOUSE
+
+
+Telemachos was the first to notice the swineherd entering the hall,
+and he made a sign for him to come and sit by him. Presently Odysseus,
+too, entered in the guise of a forlorn old beggar, and sat down near
+the door. Telemachos handed Eumaios a whole loaf of bread and as much
+meat as he could hold in his two hands, and bade him take it to the
+beggar. And he told him to tell the poor old man to ask a pittance
+from every suitor present.
+
+Odysseus took the food, and after thanking Telemachos, prayed to the
+gods to give him everything good. Then he placed his food in a wallet
+on the ground, and began to eat, while a minstrel entertained the
+assembly with sweet music. When the bard ceased his singing, the
+suitors began a noisy conversation, and having a signal from Athena,
+Odysseus arose and went from one wooer to another asking alms. Each
+one gave him something, and asked him who he was and whence he came.
+
+Melanthios, the goatherd, and the favorite of Eurymachos, wishing
+to make mischief, told them that Eumaios had brought the old man along
+but did not, himself, know who he was. Antinoos hearing this, said:
+"Eumaios, foolish swineherd, why didst thou bring that vile beggar
+here? Are there not beggars enough to eat up the wealth of thy master
+without him?"
+
+Eumaios answered him most courteously: "Antinoos, though thou art
+high born thou art not well bred. Thou hast always spoken
+contemptuously to all the servants of Odysseus, but chiefly to me.
+Beggars come as they like. No one expects to invite them. Only people
+of rank are invited to a feast. But I heed not thy abuse so long as
+I can serve the wise Penelope and her powerful son."
+
+Then Telemachos, seeing that a quarrel was brewing, interposed: "Hold
+thy peace, Eumaios, make no words with Antinoos. He takes delight
+in ugly words. Nothing pleases him more than to stir up ill-feeling.
+Surely Antinoos, thou art a father to me when thou dost bid me turn
+a stranger into the street and insult him. Pray let the old beggar
+approach thee and receive a pittance, for thou shouldst not feast
+on the food belonging to others and never bestow any gifts. All the
+suitors except thyself have given him a dole."
+
+Antinoos made response: "Telemachos, thou boaster, if each suitor
+would bestow upon him such a gift as I will make, he would not come
+here again very soon." With that he seized a footstool and held it
+up where all could see it. The beggar approached him with a pitiful
+story of wanderings and hardships. Antinoos spurned him saying: "What
+demon hath brought this chattering beggar to spoil our pleasure? Get
+thee gone, or thou wilt soon be much the worse for coming. Thou art
+a bold and impudent old beggar."
+
+Odysseus withdrew, saying as he went: "How strange it is that so fine
+a form can conceal so foul a mind. Thou wouldst not give even salt
+to a suppliant, nor a crust of bread from thine own table, without
+begrudging it. But thou dost feed gluttonously at the table of an
+absent chief." Antinoos grew more angry, and rejoined: "Thou insolent
+beggar, thou shalt not leave this hall unpunished." With that he
+raised the footstool and struck Odysseus on the shoulder. The chief
+stood like a rock, not in the least disturbed. But he made menacing
+motions with his head and retired to the door, where he put down his
+wallet and lifted up his voice to call down vengeance from the gods.
+
+Antinoos spoke again with insulting words, and one of the guests
+rebuked him. He was so angry, however, that he did not heed it.
+Telemachos saw the blow, and could hardly restrain his anger. Word
+was carried to Penelope that a penniless stranger had been insulted
+and struck in her halls, and she said to her maids: "I would that
+Apollo with his bow might strike Antinoos down."
+
+Then she called the swineherd to her apartment and said: "Bring the
+beggar hither. I should like to speak with him. It may be that he
+has seen Odysseus, for he seems to have wandered far."
+
+The swineherd took the queen's message to the stranger, but he begged
+that he might not comply with the request until the suitors had left
+the house. "I knew Odysseus well," he said, "but I dread these violent
+men. Therefore, ask Penelope to let me wait until sunset when I can
+sit by the fire and warm myself, and tell her all that she shall
+inquire."
+
+The queen thought the beggar's answer was a prudent one, and was
+satisfied. At sundown the swineherd left the palace to return to his
+hut. The suitors kept up the revel until late in the evening, and
+then went home leaving Odysseus in his own palace.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XLIII
+CONVERSATION OF ODYSSEUS AND PENELOPE
+
+
+After the revellers had left the palace, Odysseus said to his son:
+"Now is the time to hide all these weapons where the suitors cannot
+find them, when their hour of need shall come. If they ask for them
+tell them that the arms were losing their polish in these smoky rooms,
+and also that the gods had warned thee to remove them since some
+dispute might arise in which the wooers heated with wine and anger
+would attack each other."
+
+Telemachos at once obeyed. He called his old nurse to see that the
+servants were in their own apartments and the doors of the palace
+made fast while he removed the arms to an upper room. Then he retired
+to rest, leaving Odysseus sitting by the hearth in the large
+dining-hall awaiting the arrival of Penelope. She was not long in
+coming. Her maids placed a chair, inlaid with silver and ivory, for
+her near the fire, and threw a large woolly rug before it for her
+feet.
+
+The queen, stately as a goddess, took her seat there while her maids
+carried away the dishes and food left by the suitors. They heaped
+great logs on the fire. Then Melantho, an impudent maid, said to
+Odysseus: "Art thou here, thou beggar! Begone, or I will take a
+firebrand and drive thee out!" Odysseus rejoined: "Such is the fate
+of beggars. They must wander far and take abuse. It is true that I
+am ragged, but I am not unclean. Once I was rich and had my own palace.
+I often gave to beggars and I had many servants. But it pleased the
+gods to make me poor. Thou pert woman, surely the queen, Penelope,
+never taught thee, and thy bad conduct will not escape the eye of
+Telemachos."
+
+Penelope saw and heard all this and the high-breeding of the beggar
+did not escape her keen notice. She turned to the saucy maid and said:
+"Shame on thee, thou bold creature. Thou dost know full well that
+this stranger has remained here at my own request, that I might inquire
+if he knows aught of my husband."
+
+Then the queen asked her matron to spread a rug for the poor old man.
+Odysseus sat down and Penelope began to question him. "Who art thou,
+stranger?" she asked. "Where is thy home? Whence hast thou come?"
+Odysseus answered her: "My gracious queen, I am the son of a king
+and I come from Crete. I am a man of sorrows and have wandered far.
+But do not ask me of these things, for I do not wish to lament over
+unhappy days.
+
+"Strong ties of friendship bind me to Odysseus. Twenty years ago,
+when he went to Troy, I received him as a guest in my house, because
+contrary winds and a stormy sea had thrown him upon my island. I led
+him to my palace and gave him the best of food and wine. Twelve days
+he remained with me, both himself and his companions. On the
+thirteenth a favorable wind arose and they went on to Troy."
+
+Odysseus kept on inventing one tale after another, such as might seem
+probable, and the tears rolled down Penelope's cheeks. Odysseus could
+have wept, too, when he saw how deep her loyalty and affection were
+rooted. The lady had no doubt of the genuine character of her guest,
+but she cautiously strove to prove the truth of his words, so she
+questioned him yet farther, asking him to describe Odysseus and his
+comrades--how he looked and what dress he wore.
+
+Odysseus responded truthfully: "He wore a cloak of purple wool, with
+two clasps of gold, hand-wrought. The pattern showed a hound
+struggling with a spotted fawn, intent to kill it. Besides this he
+had on a delicate tunic of shining cloth, spun, doubtless, by his
+queen, for the women gazed at it in wonder.
+
+"He was accompanied by a herald named Eurybates, a hunchback with
+a dark complexion, but Odysseus seemed to value him above all the
+rest, for he was a clever and a faithful man."
+
+When Odysseus had finished speaking, Penelope exclaimed, with a burst
+of passionate grief: "Stranger, I was moved to pity when I first saw
+thee in my halls, but thou shalt be held as an honored guest from
+this time forward. Thou hast spoken truly of the garments, for I shaped
+the folds in them myself and put on the clasps. Alas! I shall never
+see him again. It was a cruel fate that took him from me."
+
+Odysseus was deeply moved, and tried to speak consoling words. "Weep
+not," he said, "for grief will wear away thy beauty and thy health.
+Odysseus lives and will return. I met him lately on his homeward way,
+laden with wealth which he had gathered in the country of the
+Thesprotians.
+
+"He will come alone, for his comrades were destroyed off the island
+of Trinacria, for they had slain the oxen of the Sun. He would have
+arrived here before me, only that he stopped to consult an oracle
+whether to come secretly or not. He is safe and will not long remain
+away from thee. Here I take the great oath that Odysseus will come
+within a month."
+
+The wise queen answered him: "I would that thy words might prove true,
+O stranger, but the thought is deep in my heart that Odysseus is no
+more. My maidens, lead this guest to the bath and spread a couch for
+him where he can rest quietly, and to-morrow he shall share the morning
+meal with Telemachos."
+
+Then said Odysseus to her: "Fair queen, I care not for fine covers
+and soft beds. Wilt thou permit me to lie down on the floor near the
+fire, as I am used to do? I care not for the bath, either, unless
+there is some old servant who knows how to give a foot-bath to aged
+feet."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XLIV
+EURYCLEIA RECOGNIZES ODYSSEUS
+
+
+Penelope admired the prudence of the poor old beggar, and called
+Eurycleia, bidding her to bathe the stranger's feet as carefully as
+if they were the feet of her master. The nurse filled a bright brass
+basin with warm water and knelt down to execute the command of her
+royal mistress, saying: "My poor Odysseus! My heart is sore for him.
+Who knows but he may be wandering like thee, weary and footsore!
+Perhaps he is an object of ridicule among serving-women who will not
+suffer him to come near the bath.
+
+"Stranger, I will wash thy feet for the sake of my absent master,
+and to please that gracious queen who has commanded me to do so; but
+most of all because thou art in need of it through suffering. Surely
+I never saw anyone who bore so close a resemblance to my lord as thou."
+
+Odysseus replied: "It has often been said that I look like Odysseus
+by those who knew us both, O aged dame." Then he turned his feet away
+from the light, for fear that Eurycleia would recognize a scar and
+discover who he was. But it was in vain, for as soon as she passed
+her hand over it she knew it. It was a scar that came where a wild
+boar had once torn the flesh when Odysseus was hunting on Parnassos.
+
+The old servant was so overcome with joy that she laughed and cried
+at the same time. She let his foot fall against the basin, which was
+upset with a loud clang, while the water was spilled over the floor.
+She laid her hand on Odysseus' beard, and said in a voice trembling
+with emotion: "Dear son, thou art Odysseus. I knew thee the moment
+that I touched the scar."
+
+Then Eurycleia turned to tell Penelope that her lord had come, for
+the queen had not seen the upsetting of the basin. But Odysseus laid
+his finger on the old servant's lips, and with his left hand drew
+her closer and said: "Be silent. Let no one know that I have come,
+for I must slay the suitors by stratagem. If they know that I am here
+they will prevent me and destroy us all."
+
+The loyal handmaid arose to bring another basin of water. She bathed
+his feet and anointed them. And he moved to the fire and took his
+seat, while he pulled his ragged garments over the scar to hide it,
+lest it might betray him.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XLV
+PENELOPE'S DREAM
+
+
+When Odysseus was again seated by the hearth, Penelope began to speak
+to him further: "Stranger, one more question I must ask thee, and
+then I will leave thee, for the hour of sleep is near. All day long
+I keep at my tasks to try to forget my grief, for the gods have visited
+me with sore misfortunes. I teach my maids to spin and weave and care
+for the palace. But when night comes strange dreams flit through my
+mind, and new sorrows spring up in my heart.
+
+"There are from day to day assembled in my home all the young men
+of the best families of Ithaca and the neighboring isles, who insist
+that I shall choose one of them for a husband. But as I am not willing
+to comply, they remain in my house and destroy my property. I am not
+able to drive them out, and do not know how to help myself. Listen
+to a dream I had the other night. Perhaps thou canst explain it to
+me.
+
+"I dreamt that there was a flock of twenty geese in my court-yard,
+and they picked corn out of the water and ate greedily. Suddenly an
+eagle swooped down upon them from above and broke their necks and
+tore them to pieces. Then he flew off, leaving them scattered about
+the yard. I bitterly bewailed the loss of my geese, and so did my
+maids. After awhile the eagle came back and, perching on the roof,
+said to me: 'Take courage, Penelope, this is no dream. The geese are
+the wooers, but I, the eagle, am thy husband, and I have come to kill
+those impudent robbers that vex thee.'"
+
+Odysseus answered her: "The eagle gave the right explanation, O lady.
+The dream could not have had any other meaning. Odysseus will come
+and slay the wooers, and not one shall escape him."
+
+"Dreams do not always come to pass," rejoined Penelope, "but I
+heartily wish that this might be fulfilled. Be patient a little longer,
+for I have one thing more to say. To-morrow is a decisive day, for
+it may be the one that drives me from the palace. I shall propose
+a contest for my hand. Twenty years ago Odysseus set up twelve axes,
+one behind the other, in the court. Through the rings of the handles
+he shot an arrow, although he stood at a great distance. I will
+challenge the suitors to take the same bow and send the arrow through
+the rings as Odysseus did. He who succeeds shall lead me forth a bride,
+to his own palace."
+
+Odysseus responded: "Do not let the contest be put off. Odysseus will
+be at hand a long time before any of the suitors can bend his bow."
+
+"Thy words, O stranger, are comforting," said Penelope. "I could sit
+and listen to thee all night. But as thou art in need of rest, I will
+retire to my apartment, and the maids shall spread rugs before the
+fire for thee." Penelope, having said this, went up to her room, her
+maids following her, and she wept, thinking of her royal lord, until
+Athena closed her eyes in sleep.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XLVI
+ATHENA ENCOURAGES ODYSSEUS
+
+
+Odysseus was lying on his bed, but he could not sleep, for he was
+thinking how he might destroy the suitors. Suddenly Athena appeared
+to him, and said: "Odysseus, why dost thou lie awake? Thou art in
+thine own house and near thy wife and child." "All this is true, O
+goddess," answered Odysseus. "But I am only one and the suitors are
+many. How shall I, single-handed, meet this multitude of men?"
+
+"Sleep in peace, Odysseus," returned Athena. "To lie awake saps the
+life and strength of men. The time has come when all thy sufferings
+shall end. The gods protect thee and they are stronger than armed
+warriors." Thus spoke the goddess, and, closing his eyelids with sweet
+slumber, she flew up to Olympos.
+
+While Odysseus was sleeping, his wife had waked, and, sitting on her
+bed, addressed a prayer to Artemis: "Rather let me die, O goddess,
+than become the wife of any other man than Odysseus. The very thought
+vexes me day and night. Just now I had a dream. I seemed to see Odysseus
+just as he was when he started out for Troy. I was so glad that I
+could not believe that it was not a reality."
+
+She prayed aloud, and soon daylight appeared. Odysseus heard the voice
+and it filled his heart with anxiety. He arose and hastily placed
+the rugs on which he had slept on a bench in the palace. Then he went
+out into the open air. Telemachos had risen also, and he went forth
+to the market-place. Eurycleia called the servants together and
+ordered them to be quick about their work, for a festival was to be
+celebrated that day and the wooers would come early.
+
+There was a busy time. The menials obeyed, some bringing water, some
+sweeping the floors, others polishing the benches and covering them
+with royal tapestries. The servants of the suitors came also and cut
+wood for the fires. Eumaios arrived early, driving three fat hogs.
+He saluted Odysseus and asked him if he were well treated by the
+suitors, or if they continued to scoff at him. Odysseus answered him:
+"May the gods punish the ruthless men who perpetrate such wrongs in
+a stranger's home." While they were talking together the goatherd
+joined him, and repeated the sneers and abuse of the preceding day.
+Odysseus took no notice of it, except to shake his head as one who
+plans direful things.
+
+The master herdsman now came along with a fat heifer and choice goats
+for the day's banquet. Offering his hand to Odysseus, he exclaimed:
+"Hail to thee, stranger! A long and happy life be thine! Methinks
+my master must be clothed in rags and wandering like thee. Thou dost
+bring his image to my mind. I hope he may return and drive these suitors
+out of his palace." "Be sure that he will come, herdsman; thou wilt
+see him with thine own eyes, when he slays the ruthless suitors, and
+then thou wilt know who is lord of the palace," replied Odysseus.
+
+The suitors were talking apart from the rest and conspiring to take
+the life of Telemachos, when an eagle wheeled over their heads,
+tearing a timid dove. With hearts foreboding ill at this omen, they
+went into the hall to begin the banquet, while the herdsman went his
+way first saying, "When Odysseus comes, call on me, and I will show
+how strong my arm is to deal a blow at his enemies."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XLVII
+THE LAST BANQUET OF THE SUITORS
+
+
+The suitors had now arrived in the great banquet-hall and taken their
+places at the tables. The servants brought bread and meat and placed
+it before them, while Melanthios filled their goblets with wine.
+Telemachos placed Odysseus near the door, and gave him an ample supply
+of food, saying: "Eat and drink, stranger, without fear. None of the
+wooers shall assail thee, for I will stand guard."
+
+One of the suitors, an evil-minded man with a rich father, said to
+his companions: "My friends, this stranger enjoys his meal greatly.
+It does not become any one of us to begrudge good things to the guests
+of Telemachos. I, too, wish to give him a present, which he in turn
+may bestow on some other beggar." With that he seized an ox's foot
+and hurled it at Odysseus.
+
+Odysseus dodged it by holding down his head. Telemachos grew angry
+and rebuked the suitor in these words: "Ktesippos, thou hast escaped
+death. It is well that this stranger avoided thy blow, for if thou
+hadst struck him, my sharp spear would have pinned thee to the wall,
+and thy father would have prepared a burial instead of a wedding for
+thee."
+
+Dreadful forebodings of woe began to fill the hearts of the suitors.
+Their speech became rambling and they laughed insanely. They ate and
+drank like men deranged.
+
+Penelope now entered the great hall and took her seat upon a
+magnificent throne, right in front of the suitors. She heard the
+maudlin laughter and saw the gluttonous feasting as the revel ran
+high. Then Athena came and moved her mind to immediate action, and
+she went up to the farthest chamber with her maids, where the arms
+of Odysseus were stored. His bow and deadly arrows, so long unused,
+were there, with rich treasures and perfumed garments. She wept as
+she took the bow from its case and went out, followed by the servants,
+who carried down costly prizes, such as Odysseus gave when festivals
+with games were held in his halls.
+
+She took her place, standing before the suitors, and addressed them:
+"Ye noble suitors, listen to my words. Cease to eat and drink and
+come to the contest. Too long have ye lived at my table, giving as
+an excuse that ye would win me as a bride. The suitor who can bend
+this bow and send this arrow through these twelve axes shall claim
+me as his wife, and I will follow him to his home."
+
+Penelope called to the swineherd and the herdsmen to place the rings
+and carry the bow to the suitors. Each in turn tried to do so, but
+were overcome with grief at seeing their master's weapons, and laid
+them down.
+
+Antinoos lifted up his voice and chid them: "Ye foolish peasants,
+must your eyes flow with tears at this feast? Bring the bow or leave
+the palace. Methinks we shall have hard work to bend this bow, for
+none of us have such sinews as had Odysseus."
+
+Then Telemachos took up the bow and laughed. "I must have lost my
+wits," he said, "for I am glad that this contest will take place.
+There is not such another woman in Greece as my stately mother. Make
+no delay then. I long to see the man who can bend the bow. I would
+that I might bend it myself and win the right to keep her in her own
+home. Then I should be spared the grief of losing her."
+
+Telemachos took off his cloak and laid his sword aside. He placed
+the axes in a row and took the bow and made three attempts to bend
+it, but did not succeed. He would have accomplished the feat if he
+had made one more effort, but Odysseus made a sign to him to desist,
+so he set the bow against the wall and went back to his seat.
+
+The first suitor to make the trial had never been pleased with the
+insolence of the wooers, and had great foresight and was called their
+seer. His hands were soft and delicate. He could not bend the bow,
+but he predicted that it would be the instrument to bring death to
+the whole crew.
+
+Antinoos reproached him for his prophecies, and ordered Melanthios
+to light a fire and bring a slice of fat, that the bow might be warmed
+and oiled to make it pliable. They warmed it and rubbed it with oil,
+and tried to bend it. One after another, each in turn, they made trials,
+but all in vain.
+
+In the meantime Odysseus went to the swineherd and the master of the
+herds, who had displayed such loyalty. He said to them: "My friends,
+what if Odysseus should come; would you take part with him, or join
+the crowd of suitors? Speak truly." The two men answered, appealing
+to the gods to bear witness, that they would stand by their master
+to the end.
+
+"Behold," said Odysseus, "I am the master that you love. I have come
+to my own land after twenty years of suffering, and among all my
+servants I hear none pray for my return save you two. And now that
+you may surely recognize me I will show you the scar made by a boar
+on Parnassos." He raised his ragged tunic for a moment and they looked
+at the scar. They recognized their long-lost master, and threw their
+arms around him and wept, and kissed his hands and feet.
+
+Odysseus begged them to desist, lest the suitors should notice it
+and discover him. And he instructed them to bring the bow to him and
+place it in his hands, after all the wooers had failed to bend it.
+And he told them to shut and lock the doors, so that the maid-servants
+could not hear the groans of the dying men, for they might run out
+and warn the town.
+
+Eurymachos and Antinoos were the last to make trial of the bow.
+Eurymachos sat before the fire and warmed it on both sides, but he
+could not bend it. He was vexed beyond measure, and said: "It is not
+that I care for Penelope, for there are other women that would suit
+me just as well, but if we are weaker than Odysseus our sons will
+hear of it in future times and be ashamed of us."
+
+Antinoos took up the word: "Eurymachos," he said, "this is a day held
+sacred to Apollo, god of the silver bow. He should have no rival.
+Let the bow alone, lest the god be angry and leave the axes standing
+in a row. No one will dare to touch them. Let Melanthios bring goats,
+and we will offer up sacrifices to the god and invite his aid. Then
+we shall have strength to win in this struggle."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XLVIII
+ODYSSEUS BENDS THE BOW
+
+
+The suitors approved the words of Antinoos. The heralds filled their
+cups with wine, and the wise Odysseus waited until they had drunk
+to their hearts' content.
+
+Then he lifted up his voice and said: "Hear me, ye suitors of Penelope,
+while I advise that you defer this trial of your strength until another
+day. Apollo will then bestow the power on one of you to triumph over
+the others. Let me practise with the bow to-day, to see if I have
+any of my youthful strength, or if I have lost it through suffering
+and want."
+
+The suitors were moved with desperate fear and anger. "Thou senseless
+beggar," said Antinoos, "is it not enough that we allow thee to sit
+at a banquet with the proudest men alive? Thou art drunk and thy mind
+wanders. What would come to thee if thou shouldst bend this bow? Verily
+we would sell thee for a slave to the great enemy of men."
+
+Then said Penelope: "Indeed, Antinoos, it is not large-minded to deny
+this poor old man the pleasure of trying the bow.
+
+"Dost thou think I would go forth as the wife of a beggar? Nay, the
+stranger has no hope of that. Do not let your minds be teased with
+such thoughts."
+
+Eurymachos, the leading suitor, rejoined: "Our care is not that thou
+wilt wed this man. But we fear the ridicule of the people, who will
+say, 'These are great men, indeed, who are outdone in strength and
+skill by a miserable old beggar.' It would be a never-ending shame
+to us."
+
+"Nay, Eurymachos," replied Penelope, "real shame comes on him who
+robs a good man and brings trouble to his family. This beggar claims
+to be of good blood, and his arm is sinewy. Let him try the bow. I
+make a solemn promise that if Apollo grant him the honor of bending
+the bow, I shall do no less than bestow upon him a tunic and a cloak,
+and sandals, and I will give him a sword with which he can defend
+himself. Then he can go where he likes."
+
+Telemachos saw that the great crisis was at hand. "Mother," he said,
+"it rests with me to give the bow or withhold it. Such matters belong
+to men, and in this palace the authority is mine. Take thy maids,
+then, and retire to thy apartments, and ply the tasks most suitable
+to women."
+
+The queen recognized her son's wisdom, and withdrew with her maids
+to the upper rooms. There she wept for the beloved monarch, her absent
+lord, until Athena sent a soothing sleep to comfort her.
+
+In the meanwhile the swineherd took up the bow and undertook to carry
+it to Odysseus. The suitors shouted their disapproval, and he became
+confused and set it down. Telemachos called out above the clamor and
+gave command for him to carry it along. The suitors laughed to hear
+the young man's voice ring out like a trumpet and drown all other
+noises. Odysseus took the bow and turned it from side to side,
+examining it in every part. Telemachos, in a low tone, bade Eurycleia
+make fast all the doors, and the master herdsman tied the gates of
+the outer court with a ship's cable.
+
+The suitors grew uneasy, and one of them said to another: "See the
+beggar, how he turns the bow this way and that! He would have us think
+that he is an expert in the use of bows." Odysseus stretched the cord
+and made it fast from end to end. He put it to his ear to try its
+tenseness as a minstrel tunes his harp. It sang like a bird. With
+perfect ease he drew the cord and let the arrow fly. It screamed like
+a swallow and went through every ring from the first one to the last.
+The suitors turned pale. Zeus sent a loud thunder-clap and Odysseus
+rejoiced at the omen. He sprang to the threshold with his bow in hand
+and a quiver full of arrows at his side, and shouted: "The contest
+is ended. Now I will choose another target."
+
+Antinoos had just put a golden goblet to his lips, and was about to
+drink the delicious wine. An arrow pierced his throat. He dropped
+the cup and fell to the ground, and as he fell his feet struck the
+table. The bread and meat were scattered in every direction over the
+floor. The suitors sprang to their feet and looked for the weapons
+on the walls. The spears were gone, and the lances and all the armor.
+
+Even yet they were blind to the fact that the stranger had slain
+Antinoos purposely. They poured out threats. "Fool," they said, "what
+art thou doing? How couldst thou be so careless! Thou hast slain the
+noblest man in Ithaca. Dogs and vultures shall devour thee. Never
+again shalt thou be allowed a trial with the bow."
+
+"Dogs," cried Odysseus, "ye little thought your chief would ever
+return from Troy, and therefore ye have robbed me of my wealth and
+vexed my wife with offers of marriage, regardless of the laws of god
+and man. But now the hour of your death has come and your doom is
+certain."
+
+The suitors trembled and looked for some open door through which to
+fly for safety. Only Eurymachos took courage to make a defence. "If
+thou art indeed Odysseus, thou hast good cause to complain of wrongs,"
+he said. "But thou hast slain the leader, Antinoos, who prompted us
+to do these wrongs. He had no thought of love for thy wife. He wanted
+to gain thy land and rule over thy people. Spare the rest of us and
+we will make ample restitution."
+
+A dreadful frown spread over Odysseus' face, and he replied:
+"Eurymachos, I will not take thy wealth nor will I spare thy life.
+Now choose between the two, either to fight or fly from death. Be
+sure no suitor shall escape my vengeance."
+
+The suitors all grew faint with fear. Eurymachos cried out to them:
+"Ye Ithacans, this man will stand there at the door and shoot us all
+down one by one. Out with your swords! Hold up the tables for shields,
+and rush upon him, all of you, at once. Drive him out of the gates,
+and then hurry through the city and give a general alarm."
+
+With a fearful shout Eurymachos then drew his own sword and sprang
+toward Odysseus. A deadly arrow from the famous bow met him and he
+fell upon the table, upsetting it, and he went spinning round with
+it on the paved floor, while the food and cup of wine were scattered
+all about. His head struck upon a stone and his feet against a chair.
+Death closed his eyes.
+
+Another suitor drew his sword and rushed toward Odysseus. Telemachos
+met him with a lance and slew him. Then Telemachos sprang to his
+father's side and said: "My father, I will bring thee javelins and
+a shield, and I will arm myself and the swineherd and the master
+herdsmen." "Make haste, my son," responded Odysseus, "for I have but
+few arrows left."
+
+Telemachos hastened to the room where the arms had been stored and
+clothed himself in brass. His loyal herdsmen also put on splendid
+armor, and they hastened back to Odysseus with a complete outfit for
+him. The chief had used up his arrows, and now he dressed himself
+in armor and took the lances. Just then he perceived that the suitors
+had by some means been supplied with armor also. He called to
+Telemachos, who had left the door ajar leading to the apartment where
+the arms had been placed for safety.
+
+Melanthios, the goatherd, had sneaked in and was slyly bringing
+shields and helmets down to them. Telemachos saw him, and gave orders
+to the herdsmen to lock the doors of the armory and secure the spy.
+They hastened to the armory and found Melanthios, who had come back
+for a second load. They cast him on the floor and tied his arms down
+so that he could not move them. Then they took a rope and made two
+loops in it and swung him safely to the timbers in the roof, saying:
+"Melanthios, thou hast a soft bed, and it is where thou canst keep
+watch. In the morning thou canst drive thy goats to the suitors'
+banquet." They locked the doors and left him there and took their
+places at Odysseus' side.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XLIX
+DEATH OF THE SUITORS
+
+
+The combat grew more stubborn. Athena, in the guise of Mentor, stood
+near Odysseus and cheered him on. "Woe unto thee, Mentor, if thou
+dost dare to help Odysseus," cried one of the suitors. "We will not
+spare thee when we have slain him. More yet, we will drive thy wife
+and children out of Ithaca and keep thy wealth." The goddess, in great
+anger at this audacity, turned toward Odysseus and said: "Thou art
+not so swift and terrible in fighting, O Chieftain, as thou wert before
+the walls of Troy."
+
+Athena said this to spur Odysseus on, but she did not remain at his
+side. She changed herself into a swallow and perched upon a rafter
+of the great hall, to put his prowess to a greater test. When she
+had gone, the suitors grew braver and threw their spears at Odysseus
+thick and fast. But their aim was uncertain, and they struck pillars
+and panels and the wall, for the goddess turned their shafts aside.
+
+Odysseus and Telemachos and their faithful servants hurled their
+lances, and the weapons always hit the mark. The cowherd struck
+Ktesippos in the breast and exclaimed, as the suitor fell: "Ktesippos,
+I give thee this spear in exchange for the ox's foot which thou didst
+throw at Odysseus as a gift when he asked alms of thee."
+
+Four of the wooers fell to the ground at once and the remainder
+retreated to the farthest corner of the hall. Still they rallied for
+another onset. Odysseus rushed in upon them and cut them down right
+and left, while Athena from above shook her fearful aegis. The
+surviving wooers were stricken with terror and ran about like a herd
+of oxen chased by a swarm of gadflies. Only the minstrel Phemios and
+the herald Medon were spared. Both of them had served the suitors
+most unwillingly and had secretly advised with Telemachos.
+
+Odysseus searched up and down the hall to see if any suitor could
+be found alive. As fishes lie upon the beach when they have been poured
+out from the nets upon the sand, so lay the multitude of wooers. Not
+one survived.
+
+Then Odysseus called Eurycleia and bade her summon all of the impudent
+and unfaithful servants who had taken sides with the suitors. They
+came into the hall and with loud laments took up the slain and carried
+them out as they were commanded, and placed them in a walled court.
+Then they cleaned the hall with water and sponges, and polished the
+wood and set everything in order.
+
+When this was done, they were driven like a flock of birds into a
+narrow place outside and hung to a beam to die wretchedly. Melanthios
+also was brought down from the armory and cast among the dogs to die.
+
+The palace now was purged with the smoke of sulphur, and the air was
+purified with incense. The loyal servants crowded about their
+chieftain and welcomed him with glad salutations. They kissed his
+hands and face, and wept and laughed for joy. Odysseus was deeply
+moved and sobbed aloud.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER L
+EURYCLEIA ANNOUNCES THE RETURN OF ODYSSEUS TO PENELOPE
+
+
+Eurycleia, with an exulting heart, now hurried up the lofty stairs
+and stood by the queen in her royal chamber. "Penelope," she cried,
+"my child, Odysseus has come. Thy husband is here, and he has slain
+the whole crew of insolent suitors who squandered his riches and
+scoffed at his son." Prudent Penelope answered her: "Eurycleia, thou
+art mad. The gods have taken thy wits away. Do not mock me with such
+idle tales. If any other maid had come on such an errand and waked
+me from sleep, I would have dismissed her with anger."
+
+"Nay, dear child, I do not mock thee; Odysseus has come and is now
+sitting by the hearth. The beggar whom they scoffed at in the hall
+was Odysseus. Telemachos knew it, but dared not tell thee until the
+suitors should be slain."
+
+Penelope rose from her couch and seized Eurycleia by the hands.
+
+"Tell me, dear nurse," she said, "tell me truly, if in fact my husband
+has returned, how was it possible that he alone could destroy such
+a multitude of haughty men!" "I did not see it," responded the old
+nurse, "but I heard the groans of the dying men as I sat with the
+other maids in our own rooms. The doors were locked to bar us from
+the hall. When Telemachos called me, I found Odysseus surrounded by
+the slain. When we had washed the hall and purged it with smoke and
+purified the air with incense, thy husband ordered me to call thee.
+Follow me now, my child, that your heart may be gladdened after it
+has been oppressed so long with sorrows."
+
+Penelope replied again: "Nay, I cannot believe it. The gods may have
+slain the suitors under the guise of Odysseus, but he has perished
+far away from home and never will return."
+
+"My daughter," said the aged nurse, "what words are these? I
+recognized Odysseus myself by the well-known scar made by the boar's
+tusk. I turned to tell thee, but he laid his finger on my lips and
+said: 'Be silent. Let no one know that I am here until the suitors
+all are slain, or else they will destroy me.' Now follow me. I pledge
+my life that I speak the truth."
+
+Penelope descended from her royal bower uncertain how to meet her
+lord. She crossed the threshold and sat down at the hearth, opposite
+Odysseus, who was seated beside a stately column in the blazing light
+of the fire. He did not lift his eyes to look at his wife, but waited
+for her to make the way open for him to speak. Penelope was speechless.
+She looked at her husband and seemed sometimes to recognize him, and
+then the resemblance faded out and he did not seem at all like
+Odysseus.
+
+Telemachos became impatient and spoke to her, chiding her. "Mother,"
+he said, "thou art hard-hearted and unkind. Any other woman would
+extend a hearty welcome to her husband after he had suffered so many
+years of hardship, wandering in foreign lands. Take thy place at my
+father's side and question him. Verily thy heart is harder than a
+stone." "My son," answered Penelope, "I seem to have lost the power
+to speak. I am dazed and cannot even command myself to look at him.
+If this is indeed Odysseus we soon shall know each other, for there
+are secrets known to us two only."
+
+Odysseus smiled and said: "My son, be patient, and let thy mother
+put me to the test. She does not know me in these rags, but she will
+soon be convinced that I am Odysseus. It is more important now to
+prevent the news that the suitors have been slain from spreading.
+They have friends all over the city. Who knows but what they may rise
+up against us. I deem it best that we bathe and put on fresh garments,
+and let the servants do the same.
+
+"And let the minstrel bring his lyre and strike up such music as
+prompts the dance, so that those living near us may report that a
+wedding is being celebrated. Then we may safely venture forth and
+see what is to be done."
+
+Thus spoke the monarch, and his commands were gladly obeyed.
+Telemachos and the servants went their way to the baths and arrayed
+themselves in splendid clothing. The bard took his harp and woke the
+pleasing strains, and the palace halls resounded with mirth and
+dancing.
+
+After awhile those outside were heard to say: "Shame on Penelope!
+She weds a second time, and does not even know whether her absent
+lord is dead or living. She might have waited for him to return."
+
+Meantime Odysseus followed a servant to the bath, and when he had
+been bathed and anointed he put on garments suitable for a king. Athena
+gave him a more majestic appearance, and caused his hair to fall in
+heavy curls, like the petals of the hyacinth. When he came back to
+the great hall and stood before the queen, he looked like an immortal.
+
+"Lady," he said, "the gods have given thee a stubborn heart. Any other
+woman would have given a glad welcome to her husband after he had
+been absent twenty years." To this Penelope responded: "Not so; I
+have no pride nor a cold heart. But I should be unworthy of my lord
+if I accepted a stranger without putting him to the proof. I remember
+well when thou didst go to Troy. Thou didst command Eurycleia to carry
+thy massive bed out into the open air and cover it with fleeces."
+
+"Nay, woman, no living man could perform such a feat. I built that
+massive frame myself. It was a tall olive-tree that grew within one
+of the courts. Round it I built a royal bower, and, cutting off the
+great limbs of the tree, shaped them and fastened them to the trunk.
+In this wise I built the frame, and no one could move it without
+dragging the tree out by the roots. That is a secret known only to
+thee and me."
+
+Penelope had put the final test, and knew that this was surely Odysseus.
+She rose from where she sat and ran to him and threw her arms about
+his neck and kissed his brow. "Odysseus, do not be angry with me,"
+she said. "Many are they who have tried to practise deception upon
+me. Thou hast made me believe in thee." These words pierced Odysseus'
+heart and brought him the relief of tears. He pressed his faithful
+wife to his bosom again and again.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER LI
+ODYSSEUS VISITS HIS FATHER
+
+
+Early the next morning Odysseus dressed himself in his splendid armor
+and bade his son and servants accompany him to the farm. They took
+their weapons and went forth, Odysseus leading the way. It was not
+long before they came to the green fields which were cared for by
+Laertes. He had built his house there, and surrounded it with cabins,
+where his servants slept.
+
+Odysseus was anxious to know whether his father would recognize him
+or not, so he said to one of the men: "Go into the house and call
+my father. Let me see whether he will know me, after I have been so
+long away." Placing his weapons in their hands, he went down into
+the orchard. There were no servants about, for they had all gone off
+to gather thorns with which to build a fence.
+
+There Odysseus saw his father working around a young tree that he
+had just planted. He was clad in old, coarse clothes that had been
+repeatedly patched, a goat-skin cap, and gloves to protect his hands
+from the briers.
+
+It was pitiful to see the want of hope in the old man's face as he
+moved about brooding over his troubles. Odysseus was uncertain
+whether he should throw his arms about his father's neck and clasp
+him to his heart and kiss him, or whether it were better to question
+him.
+
+He approached Laertes gently and, having greeted him, said: "My friend,
+thou art a skilful farmer. Every fig and vine and pear and olive has
+been carefully trained. But no one seems to care for thee. Thy master
+treats thee badly, for thou art ill-clad and unkempt. An old man
+deserves better things. Thy face does not look like the face of a
+servant. Indeed one might take thee for a king. Now tell me, who owns
+this orchard? And tell me also if this land is Ithaca. I desire to
+learn what became of Odysseus, the son of Laertes. He was once my
+guest and one that I made most welcome."
+
+Laertes wept. "Thou art indeed in Ithaca, O stranger," he said. "But
+thou dost seek in vain for Odysseus. The land is full of wicked men,
+and there is no host to load thee with generous gifts, a recompense
+for thy hospitality. Oh, tell me of my son; when did he lodge with
+thee? Woe is me! The beasts and birds have long since devoured him.
+No mother folded his shroud about him, nor did his father or his loyal
+wife weep upon his bier. Tell me, what is thy name? Where is thy ship?
+How didst thou come here?"
+
+Odysseus was overcome with pity, and invented a tale to prepare
+Laertes for his unexpected coming. Then he clasped the dear old man
+in his arms and kissed his trembling hands, and said: "I am thy son,
+my father; I am the Odysseus of whom thou dost inquire. Here is the
+scar given me by the wild boar as I hunted on Parnassos. And for further
+proof I will tell thee of the orchard-trees thou gavest me when I
+was a child. There were thirteen pear-trees, forty fig-trees, and
+ten apple-trees. Forbear thy weeping and cease to mourn. I have slain
+the suitor-robbers who were destroying my riches, and I have taken
+possession of my house again."
+
+Overwhelmed with joy, the old king trembled from head to foot. The
+sturdy chieftain, Odysseus, saw it and drew him to his heart to keep
+him from fainting, and held him there until his strength came back.
+Then they went up to the house, where a supper had been prepared,
+and Telemachos was waiting. Laertes went to the bath and came back
+clad like a king. The grief had left his face, and he took on his
+old majestic appearance. As they sat at the banquet, relating the
+experiences of the past years, Dolius and his sons, the servants who
+had gone in search of thorns, returned. Dolius recognized Odysseus
+and seized him by the hand and saluted him with joyful greetings,
+and his sons gathered round the chieftain eager to take his hand.
+
+Meantime the souls of the suitors had gone down to the abode of Pluto.
+Hermes led them, and they followed, crying and wailing like bats in
+a dark cave. The shades of Achilles, Agamemnon, Ajax, and other heroes
+saw them and constrained them to relate the mishaps that had brought
+them there. Then Agamemnon's ghost responded: "Fortunate Odysseus!
+His fame shall last forever, and poets shall sing the praises of
+Penelope in all the coming ages."
+
+Ere Odysseus and Laertes had finished their feast, the news of the
+dreadful death of the suitors spread over the city. The wooers had
+many friends, and they came to the palace weeping and mourning, ready
+to avenge their slaughter. Finding that Odysseus was not at home,
+they proceeded to the market-place. The father of Antinoos arose and
+lifted up his voice crying for vengeance, but Medon, the herald,
+warned them that a god had taken part against them and that strife
+would be useless.
+
+Halitherses, a wise and reverend citizen, took up the word: "Ye men
+of Ithaca," he said, "give ear to what I have to say. Odysseus was
+not the cause of your misfortunes, but you, yourselves. Ye would not
+check the insolence of the suitors, even when Mentor bade you do it.
+Contend not with Odysseus nor bring down his wrath upon us."
+
+The Ithacans were now divided against themselves. Half of them took
+up arms to make war on Odysseus, and started for his father's house.
+In this adversity Athena did not forget her favorite chief, but armed
+herself, and, taking on the guise of Mentor, placed herself at
+Odysseus' side. A son of Dolius was first to announce that a crowd
+was marching against them, when they all arose quickly, donned their
+armor, and went outside.
+
+Then Odysseus cried out to Telemachos: "Now is the moment to show
+thyself a hero, my son. Do not bring disgrace upon thy forefathers,
+for they are renowned over the whole world for their bravery."
+Telemachos responded: "There is no danger of that, my dear father,
+as I shall show thee presently." When Laertes heard this he rejoiced
+and said: "This is a happy day for me. How blest am I to see my son
+and grandson rivals in brave deeds."
+
+Athena now drew near to the old king, and inspired him with youthful
+courage. He swung his spear aloft and threw it at the leader of the
+host and smote him to the earth. Odysseus and Telemachos rushed into
+the fray with double-edged swords. They would have made an end of
+the whole multitude, but Athena called aloud: "People of Ithaca, cease
+from fighting! Retire at once from this contest and shed no more
+blood."
+
+The Ithacans grew pale with fright at hearing the voice of the goddess.
+They threw down their weapons and ran toward the city in a panic of
+fear. Odysseus shouted in triumph as he gave chase, but Zeus sent
+a thunder-bolt down as a sign to Athena that she should restrain him.
+The goddess called to him to cease the pursuit, and, taking the guise
+of Mentor, she moved the minds of Odysseus and his enemies to mutual
+pledges of peace and good-will.
+
+
+
+
+VOCABULARY AND NOTES
+
+
+A chil' les--also called Pelides, the hero of the "Iliad." He was
+the son of Peleus (king of Phthia in Thessaly) and the sea-nymph,
+Thetis.
+
+AE g[=e]' an--a sea east of Greece.
+
+AE' o lus--the keeper of the winds, and king of Lipara, one of the
+AEolian isles north of Sicily.
+
+Ag a mem' non--leader of all the Greek chiefs in the Trojan war.
+
+A' jax, or Aias--king of Salamis and cousin of Achilles. He was the
+son of Telamon and was called Ajax the Greater.
+
+Al ex [)a]n' dr[)o]s--Paris, son of Priam.
+
+Al kin' [)o] [:o]s--king of Scheria, father of Nausicaa. He gave aid
+to Odysseus when he was stranded on the island.
+
+An tin' o [:o]s--the boldest of the suitors.
+
+Aph ro d[=i]' te--Venus, the goddess of love and beauty. The island
+of Kythera (Cythera), south of Greece, was the seat of her worship.
+
+A p[)o]l' lo--the Sun-god, brother of Artemis and son of Zeus and
+Leto. The island of Delos was his mythical birthplace and his
+principal oracle was at Delphi.
+
+Ar ca' di a, or Arkadia--the central district of the Peloponnesus.
+
+A re' t['e] ([:a] r[=a]' t[=a])--wife of Alkinoos and queen of
+Scheria.
+
+Ar e th[=u]' sa--a spring "where the swine of Eumaios ate 'abundance
+of acorns and drank the black water.'" (See Baedeker's
+Greece--Ithaca.) Arethusa was also the name of a water-nymph
+inhabiting the spring.
+
+Ar' gus, or Argos--the most celebrated dog known to fame. He belonged
+to Odysseus.
+
+Ar' te mis, or Diana--goddess of the moon and sister to Apollo. She
+was called the hunter-goddess and the protector of animals.
+
+As' ph[=o] del--a flower sacred to Persephone. The souls of the
+departed were supposed to wander in meadows adorned with these
+beautiful flowers.
+
+A th[=e]' n[=e], or Athena; Latin, Minerva--the patron deity of Athens.
+The city was named for her. Ruskin calls her the "Queen of the Air,"
+and explains her real significance as being the inspiration of the
+soul, which corresponds to the physical vigor and life received by
+inhaling the pure air. She is always called the "Goddess of Wisdom."
+
+A' treus (a' tr[=u]se)--son of Pelops and father of Agamemnon.
+
+Au' lis--a bay and town on the coast of Greece, about thirty miles
+north of Athens. "The scanty ruins of Aulis lie on the rugged ridge
+of rock which stretches into the sea between the two bays. The little
+town never attained any importance, for its site was unfavorable for
+the development of a community; but the two sheltered bays were
+excellently adapted to be the rendezvous of a fleet." (See Baedeker's
+Greece--Aulis.)
+
+Cad' mus, or Kadmos--the founder of Thebes in Boeotia. According to
+tradition, he came from Phoenicia and brought the alphabet to the
+Greeks and the knowledge of working in metals.
+
+Cal' chas, or Kalchas--a soothsayer. He offended Agamemnon by
+declaring that the Greeks suffered from the wrath of the gods through
+his offences.
+
+Ca lyp' so--the goddess of Silence, daughter of Oceanos and Tethys,
+and queen of Ogygia. She tried by every art to detain Odysseus on
+his way home from Troy.
+
+Cas san' dra--a daughter of Priam, and a prophetess, taken captive
+in the Trojan war and awarded to Agamemnon.
+
+Cha ryb' dis--a whirlpool off the coast of Sicily, a little to the
+north of Messina.
+
+Cir' c['e], or Kirke--the daughter of Helios, the Sun. She was an
+enchantress who lived on the island AEaea. She infused into the vine
+the intoxicating quality found in the juice of the grape. "The grave
+of Circe used to be pointed out on the island of St. George, close
+to Salamis." (See Baedeker's Greece--Salamis.)
+
+Cy' clops, or Kyklops, also called Polyphemus--a monstrous one-eyed
+giant. He was the son of Poseidon. It was due to his prayer for revenge
+that Odysseus was kept so long wandering on the sea.
+
+Cy the' ra, or Kythera--a rocky island lying south of Greece. It was
+the seat of the worship of Aphrodite.
+
+D[=e]' los--an island about sixty miles southeast of Athens. It is
+the mythical birthplace of Apollo and Artemis.
+
+D[=e] mod' o kos--a bard at the court of Alkinoos.
+
+E' lis--a district and a city in the northwestern part of the
+Peloponnesus. Like Sparta, the city had no walls. It was protected
+by the sacred peace of Olympia.
+
+The plain or precinct of Olympia is situated in the district of Elis.
+Pyrgos is the nearest railroad station. "Olympia owed its high
+importance throughout the entire Grecian world to the famous Olympic
+games in honor of Zeus, which took place periodically for centuries.
+Excavations there have brought to light many magnificent pieces of
+sculpture, among them the Hermes of Praxiteles."
+
+El p[=e]' nor--one of the comrades of Odysseus. He fell from the roof
+of Circe's palace and was killed.
+
+E lys' ian--pertaining to Elysium, the abode of dead heroes and other
+happy spirits.
+
+Eu mai' os, or Eumaeus--the swineherd of Odysseus.
+
+Eu r[=o]' tas--a river of southern Greece.
+
+Eu ry' a los--a son of Alkinoos.
+
+Eu ry clei' a ([=u] ry cl[=i]' [:a])--the nurse of Odysseus and
+Telemachos.
+
+Eu ry' l[)o] chos, or Eurylochus--one of the companions of Odysseus.
+
+Eu ry' ma chos, or Eurymachus--one of the suitors of Penelope.
+
+Gor' gon--a monster of fearful aspect, a daughter of Phorkys and Ceto.
+Her hair was entwined with serpents, her hands were of brass, her
+body covered with scales, and anyone gazing upon her was turned into
+stone.
+
+Hel' en, or Helene--a daughter of Tyndareus and Leda. She was the
+wife of Menelaos and was always called "the most beautiful woman in
+the world."
+
+Hel' las--Greece, the land of the Hellenes.
+
+H[=e]' li os--the god of the Sun.
+
+He phais' tos, or Hephaestus--Vulcan. He was the blacksmith god, the
+god of fire, and a worker in metals.
+
+H[=e]' ra, H[=e]r[=e]--Juno, the wife of Zeus. She was worshipped
+as the queen of heaven and was regarded as a model of womanly virtue.
+Argos was the chief centre of the worship of Hera.
+
+H[=e]r' a kles, or Hercules--a celebrated hero whose deeds are
+connected with many localities. There is a cave near Nemea where he
+is said to have slain a lion, not far from Stymphalos, where he put
+the Harpies to flight, and Erymanthos, the scene of the killing of
+the Erymanthian boar. There are traditions of his heroism connected
+with Thessaly (Thebes) and Locris, also.
+
+Her' bart--a German philosopher and pedagogian.
+
+Her' m[=e]s, or Mercury--the messenger of the gods, also their herald.
+
+Her mi' [)o] ne--the daughter of Menelaos and Helen.
+
+Ho' mer--the greatest of the Greek poets and author of the "Iliad"
+and "Odyssey."
+
+I' da--a mountain of Asia Minor, east of Troy.
+
+Il' i ad--an epic poem, probably the greatest ever written, devoted
+to the deeds of Achilles, and taken by the best scholars of modern
+times as an interpretation of Greek life, Greek thought, and the Greek
+religion.
+
+I' no, or Leucothea--a daughter of Cadmus, a sea-nymph who helped
+Odysseus by giving him an enchanted veil.
+
+Iph i gen ei' a--the daughter of Agamemnon and Clytemnestra. "Ulrichs
+has discovered the site of the famous Temple of Artemis or Diana,
+where Agamemnon was on the point of sacrificing his daughter
+Iphigeneia, before the departure of the Greek fleet for Troy." (See
+Baedeker's Greece--Aulis.) To appreciate the character of this
+famous woman one must read the "Iphigeneia in Aulis" of Euripides
+and the "Iphigeneia in Tauris" of Goethe.
+
+Ith' a ca, or Ithaka, Greek Ithake--rocky island with an area of 37-1/2
+square miles and 12,500 inhabitants. "The world-wide fame of this
+little island is of course due to the Homeric epic of the Odyssey,
+in which the misfortunes and wiles, the wanderings, and home-coming
+of Ulysses (Odysseus), King of Ithaca, have been handed down to
+posterity in undying verse. Even if the person of the hero be relegated
+to the realm of myths, it is indisputable that the descriptions of
+the poem rest upon a more or less exact local knowledge; and this
+is evident not only in the account of the situation and general
+character of the island but also in numerous small details.... The
+island became almost entirely depopulated in the middle ages, in
+consequence of the raids of pirates and the Turkish wars, and did
+not begin to recover until the Venetian epoch. But similar conditions
+of life make the modern islanders resemble the ancient. To this day
+the Ithacans are distinguished by their bold seamanship, their love
+of home, and their hospitality." (See Baedeker's Greece--Ithaca.)
+
+Ja' son, or Iason--the hero who undertook the expedition in search
+of the Golden Fleece.
+
+Ktes ip' pos, or Ctesippus--one of the suitors of Penelope.
+
+Lak e dai' mon, or Lacedaemon--a district in southeastern Greece.
+Sparta was its capital.
+
+La [:e]r' tes--the father of Odysseus.
+
+La o' da m['a]s--a son of Alkinoos.
+
+La o' co [:o]n, or Laoko[:o]n--a young priest of Apollo. He warned
+the Trojans not to accept the wooden horse left by the Greeks and
+was destroyed by a serpent.
+
+Lo' tus--the Egyptian water-lily, also a tree. The lotus-eaters ate
+of the fruit of the lotus-tree and forgot their homes and friends.
+
+Me l[)a]n' thi os--a servant of Odysseus, a goatherd who sympathized
+with the suitors and served them.
+
+Men e l[=a]' os, or Menelaus--a son of Atreus and brother of Agamemnon.
+Menelaos was the king of Sparta and husband of Helen.
+
+Men' tor--the wise counsellor of Telemachos.
+
+Mil t[=i]' [:a] des--the hero of the battle of Marathon, fought 490
+B.C. In this battle the Greeks, numbering 10,000 men, conquered ten
+times as many Persians.
+
+Mi' nos--a son of Zeus and ruler over Crete.
+
+Mo' ly--a fabulous plant having magic properties. It had a white
+blossom and a black root.
+
+My c[=e]' nae, or Myk[=e]nai--an ancient city of Argolis, in the
+northeastern Peloponnesus. "Dr. Henry Schliemann, in 1876, made rich
+discoveries there, weapons, ornaments, vessels of gold, silver and
+clay," skeletons "surrounded by bands of gold, golden shovels
+engraved with battle-scenes," etc. (See Baedeker's Greece--Mycenae
+and Athens.)
+
+Myr' m[)i] d[)o]ns--a warlike people of Thrace, ruled by Achilles
+and taken by him to the Trojan war as followers.
+
+Nau sic' a [:a]--the daughter of Alkinoos.
+
+N[=e] [)o]p t[)o]l' [)e] m[)o]s--the son of Achilles.
+
+N[)e]s' tor--the leader of the warriors of Pylos, in southwestern
+Greece.
+
+O ke' a nos, or Oceanus--the god of the river Oceanus, and son of
+Heaven and Earth.
+
+Od ys' seus (s[=u]se), or Ulysses--the son of Laertes and Anticleia
+and the hero of Homer's Odyssey. Being summoned to the Trojan war,
+he feigned madness, and harnessed a mule and a cow to a plough and
+began ploughing the sea-shore. Palamedes, to test his madness, placed
+his infant son, Telemachos, in front of the plough, and Odysseus
+quickly turned it aside. He became famous for his bravery and craft
+in the war. He is looked upon by critics as the most perfect type
+of adult Greek ideals.
+
+[Illustration: ODYSSEUS FEIGNS MADNESS]
+
+O lymp' os, or Olympus--a mountain in Thrace. The home of the gods.
+
+O r[)e]s' t[=e]s--the son of Agamemnon.
+
+Par' is, or Alexandros--a son of Priam. At his birth there was a
+prophecy that he would be the ruin of his country; hence he was cast
+out upon Mount Ida, where he was found and rescued by a shepherd.
+(See Introduction.)
+
+Par nas' sos--a mountain near the north coast of the Corinthian Gulf.
+It is 8,070 feet high and commands a view of Mount Olympos to the
+north, Euboea on the east, the islands of the Archipelago, the
+Peloponnesus, and even Mount Korax.
+
+Pat' r[)o] klos, or Patroclus--the intimate friend of Achilles. His
+death at the hands of the Trojans provoked Achilles to action.
+
+Pei sis' tra tos--a son of Nestor.
+
+P[=e]' leus--the father of Achilles.
+
+Pel op on n[=e]s' us--the peninsula of lower Greece.
+
+Pe nel' o pe--the wife of Odysseus. The greatest heroine of ancient
+romance.
+
+P[)e]r s[)e]ph' [=o] ne, or Proserpine--daughter of Demeter (Ceres).
+"She was the goddess of Spring and was allowed to spend two-thirds
+of the year with her mother, while the remaining time she dwelt with
+her husband, Hades, in his underground abode." Eleusis, twelve miles
+west of Athens, was the centre of the worship of Demeter and Persephone.
+(See Baedeker's Greece--Eleusis.)
+
+Phai a' ki ans, or Phaeacians--the people of the island of Scheria,
+over whom Alkinoos ruled.
+
+Ph[=e]' mi os--a bard at the court of Odysseus.
+
+Phor' kys--the harbor where the Phaeacians landed Odysseus on his
+return to Ithaca. "The Bay of Vathy," says Baedeker, "disputes with
+the Bay of Dexia the honor of being the Harbour of Phorkys."
+
+Plu' to, or Hades--a son of Rhea and Kronos and brother of Zeus and
+Poseidon. Pluto was the ruler of the lower world.
+
+Po sei' don, or Neptune--brother of Zeus and Hades. Poseidon was the
+ruler of the seas and was the first to train and employ horses.
+
+Pol y phe' mus, or Polyphemos or Cyclops--the son of Poseidon. He
+was one of the Cyclops or Kyklops who were said to live in the heart
+of burning mountains, particularly in Mount AEtna.
+
+Pri' am, or Priamos--king of Troy and father of Paris.
+
+Pro' teus--an ocean deity who lived at the bottom of the sea. He took
+care of Poseidon's sea-calves and was famous for his evasiveness.
+
+Py' los--a town (and bay) in the southwestern part of lower Greece.
+It was the centre of Nestor's kingdom.
+
+Sa' mos--"at present a little village on the island of Cephalonia,
+the starting-point of the boats to Ithaca. In Homer, the _island_
+of Cephalonia, or its east part, is called Same; and in the latter
+part of the Odyssey, Samos appears as belonging to the kingdom of
+Ithaca." (Baedeker.) Samos, a large island near Asia Minor, is not
+related to the Samos of the Odyssey.
+
+Ska man' dros, or Scamander--a river of the Troad or plains of Troy.
+
+Scher' i a--an island northwest of Greece. "The ancients identified
+Corfu with the Phaeacian island of Scheria, mentioned in the
+'Odyssey,' as ruled over by Alkinoos." (Baedeker.)
+
+Skyl' la--a rock in southwestern Italy. It was supposed to be the
+abode of a monster with many heads and hands.
+
+Sky' ros--a large island east of Greece.
+
+Sim' o is--a river in the Troad, and a branch of the Scamander.
+
+Si' rens--daughters of Acheloos and a Muse, or, according to another
+account, daughters of Phorkys. They failed to care for Persephone
+when Pluto seized her to carry her off, and Demeter took revenge by
+transforming them into monsters half woman and half bird.
+
+Sis' y phos--a hero who secured a fountain to the citadel of Corinth
+by betraying Zeus. Sisyphos was punished by being obliged to roll
+stones up-hill in Hades.
+
+Spar' ta--a town in the southern part of the Peloponnesus, on the
+Eurotas. It was the chief city of Lacedaemon and the home of Menelaos
+and Helen. It had no walls, but its acropolis was covered with temples.
+Ancient Sparta was noted for the bravery of its people. At present
+Sparta has about 3,600 inhabitants. There are few relics of its
+ancient greatness.
+
+Styx--a stream of water in central lower Greece. "The thread of water
+descends from a huge cliff against a background of dark moss, which
+has earned for the brook the name of 'Black Water.' At the bottom
+of the cliff the water loses itself in a chaos of rocks. The ancients
+saw in the icy coldness of the water and in the barren tract around
+an image of the underworld." (See Baedeker's Greece.) To swear by
+the Styx was to take "the great oath of the gods."
+
+Tan' ta los--a king of Phrygia punished by the gods for treachery
+and for cruelty to his son. He was doomed to suffer from hunger and
+thirst while standing close to food and water which he could not reach.
+
+T[=e] l[)e]' ma chos--the son of Odysseus and Penelope.
+
+Ten' e dos--an island in the neighborhood of Troy or Ilium.
+
+Them is' to kles--a great statesman of Athens, and a leader of the
+Greeks in the Persian war when the Greeks won the battle of Salamis.
+
+The' seus (Th[=e]' s[=u]se)--a son of AEgeus and AEthra. Like his
+counterpart Herakles, Theseus performed wonderful deeds, and finally
+became ruler of Athens.
+
+Thes' sa ly--a large province of northern Greece.
+
+Th[)e]' tis--a sea-nymph, the mother of Achilles.
+
+Ti res' ias, or Teiresias--a Theban seer. He retained his
+consciousness after death, and Odysseus descended into Hades to
+consult with him before he could reach Ithaca.
+
+Troy, Ilios, or Ilium--a city of Asia Minor and the scene of the Trojan
+war. Dr. Schliemann has identified the city with Hissarlik, and in
+his excavations there found many evidences of the war, such as spears,
+helmets, etc.
+
+Zeus, or Jupiter--a son of Kronos and Rhea. His abode was supposed
+to be on Mount Olympos, in Thessaly. He was considered the highest
+of the gods, ruler of the heavens and the earth.
+
+Za' kyn thos, or Zante--an island near Corfu.
+
+
+
+
+[Transcriber's note: The publishers of this book used an unusual
+convention in which only a single pair of quotation marks surround
+a quote, even when the quote extends over multiple paragraphs or
+multiple chapters.  This transcription has conventional usage of
+quotation marks.]
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of Odysseus, the Hero of Ithaca, by Homer
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