Page:The Iliad and Odyssey of Homer (IA iliadodysseyofho02home).pdf/304

296 The sacred bard, my pleasure, thus I speak. The robes, wrought gold, and all the other gifts To this our guest, by the Phæacian Chiefs Brought hither in the sumptuous coffer lie. But come—present ye to the stranger, each, An ample tripod also, with a vase Of smaller size, for which we will be paid By public impost; for the charge of all Excessive were by one alone defray'd. So spake Alcinoüs, and his counsel pleased; Then, all retiring, sought repose at home. But when Aurora, daughter of the dawn, Look'd rosy forth, each hasted to the bark With his illustrious present, which the might Of King Alcinoüs, who himself her sides Ascended, safe beneath the seats bestowed, Lest it should harm or hinder, while he toil'd In rowing, some Phæacian of the crew. The palace of Alcinoüs seeking next, Together, they prepared a new regale. For them, in sacrifice, the sacred might Of King Alcinoüs slew an ox to Jove Saturnian, cloud-girt governor of all. The thighs with fire prepared, all glad partook The noble feast; meantime, the bard divine Sang, sweet Demodocus, the people's joy.