Page:Masterpieces of Greek Literature (1902).djvu/55

25 ODYSSEUS IN THE CAVE OF POLYPHEMUS 25

But when, toward loosing of the plough, did wane The slanting sun, then the Ciconian host Turned us to flight along the shadowy plain. 70

Six of our comrades from each ship were lost, But we the rest fled safely from the Thracian coast.

Then on our course we sail, distressed in heart, Glad of our lives, yet grieving for the dead ; Natheless we list not from that shore depart, 75

Ere thrice with cries we hailed each fallen head Of those whose blood the fierce Ciconians shed In the wide plain. Ere yet we ceased to weep, Zeus on our fleet the rage of Boreas dread Launched, and with black clouds veiled the earth

and deep, so

While the dark Night came rushing from heaven's

stormy steep.

Headlong the ships were driven with tattered sails. These having furled we drave our keels ashore, Fearing destruction from the raving gales. Two nights and days we eating our heart's core ss Lay till the third light beauteous Dawn upbore ; Then we the masts plant, and the white sails spread. And sitting lean to the laborious oar. Wind and good pilotage the brave barks sped ; Soon had I scatheless seen my native earth ahead, 90

But me the current and fell Boreas whirled.

Doubling Malea's cape, and far astray

Beyond the rude cliffs of Cythera hurled.

So for nine days along the watery way,

Teeming with monsters, me the winds affray 95

And with destruction ever seem to whelm :