Page:Masterpieces of Greek Literature (1902).djvu/66

36 36 HOMER

Deep in the cave tlie pointed stake concealed. Anon my comrades cast tlieir lots all round, Which should with me the fiery weapon wield, 395 And twirl it in his eye while sleep his huge strength sealed.

Then were four chosen — even the very same IVhom I myself should have picked out to be My comrades in the work — and me they name The fifth, their captain. In the evening he 400

Came, shepherding his flocks in due degree, Home from the hills, and all his fleecy rout Into the wide cave urged imperiously, Nor left one loiterer in the space without, 404

Whether from God so minded, or his own dark doubt.^

Soon with the great stone he blocked up the cave, And milked the bleating flocks in order due. And to each mother her young suckling gave. But when the evening tasks were all gone through. He of my wretched comrades seizing two 410

Straight on the horrible repast did sup. Then I myself near to the Cyclops drew, And, holding in my hands an ivy cup Brimmed with the dark-red wine, took courage and spake up :

" Cyclops, take wine, and drink after thy meal 415

Consumed, of human flesh, that thou mayest know

The kind of liquor wherein we sailors deal.

Tliis a drink-offering have I brought, that so

Thou mightest pity me and let me go

Safe homeward. Thou alas ! with fury extreme 420

1 I. e. for Odysseus' sake, or a mere presentiment of ill.