Page:The Iliad and Odyssey of Homer (IA iliadodysseyofho02home).pdf/183

VIII. By many a wave, nor had I food on board At all times, therefore I am much unstrung. He spake; and silent the Phæacians sat, Of whom alone Alcinoüs thus replied. Since, stranger, not ungraceful is thy speech, Who hast but vindicated in our ears Thy question'd prowess, angry that this youth Reproach'd thee in the presence of us all, That no man qualified to give his voice In public, might affront thy courage more; Now mark me, therefore, that in time to come, While feasting with thy children and thy spouse, Thou may'st inform the Heroes of thy land Even of our proficiency in arts By Jove enjoin'd us in our father's days. We boast not much the boxer's skill, nor yet The wrestler's; but light-footed in the race Are we, and navigators well-inform'd. Our pleasures are the feast, the harp, the dance, Garments for change; the tepid bath; the bed. Come, ye Phæacians, beyond others skill'd To tread the circus with harmonious steps, Come, play before us; that our guest, arrived In his own country, may inform his friends How far in seamanship we all excel, In running, in the dance, and in the song. Haste! bring ye to Demodocus his lyre Clear-toned, left somewhere in our hall at home.