Page:The Iliad and Odyssey of Homer (IA iliadodysseyofho02home).pdf/228

220 Not far remote my Ithacans I saw Fires kindling on the coast; but me with toil Worn, and with watching, gentle sleep subdued; For constant I had ruled the helm, nor giv'n That charge to any, fearful of delay. Then, in close conference combined, my crew Each other thus bespake—He carries home Silver and gold from Æolus received, Offspring of Hippotas, illustrious Chief— And thus a mariner the rest harangued. Ye Gods! what city or what land soe'er Ulysses visits, how is he belov'd By all, and honour'd! many precious spoils He homeward bears from Troy; but we return, (We who the self-same voyage have perform'd) With empty hands. Now also he hath gain'd This pledge of friendship from the King of winds. But come—be quick—search we the bag, and learn What stores of gold and silver it contains. So he, whose mischievous advice prevailed. They loos'd the bag; forth issued all the winds, And, caught by tempests o'er the billowy waste, Weeping they flew, far, far from Ithaca. I then, awaking, in my noble mind Stood doubtful, whether from my vessel's side Immersed to perish in the flood, or calm To endure my sorrows, and content to live. I calm endured them; but around my head