Page:The Odyssey of Homer, with the Hymns, Epigrams, and Battle of the Frogs and Mice (Buckley 1853).djvu/129

143—180. hands around the knees of Arete. And then indeed the divine mist was again dispersed from him. But they became speechless in the house on beholding the man, and seeing him they marvelled; and Ulysses besought her:

"O Arete, daughter of godlike Rexenor, I come to thy husband and to thy knees, having gone through many toils, and to these guests, to whom may the gods grant to live happily, and may each hand down to his children the possessions in his palace, and whatever honour the people has given him. But for me prepare ye an escort, that I quickly reach my paternal land; since for a long time I suffer griefs away from my friends."

Thus having spoken, he sat down on the hearth in the dust near the fire; but they were all speechless in silence. At length however the aged hero Echeneus addressed them, who was the oldest of the Phæacians, and surpassed in speaking, being acquainted with both many and ancient things. He, thinking well, harangued and addressed them:

"O Alcinous, this is not more honourable for thee, nor is it seemly, that a stranger should sit on the ground on the hearth in the dust; but these restrain themselves, awaiting thy command. But come now, raise up the stranger and set him on a silver-studded throne; and do thou command the heralds to mix additional wine, that we may make libations to thunder-rejoicing Jove, who attends venerable suppliants: but let the housekeeper give a meal to the stranger from the things that are within."

And forthwith when the sacred might of Alcinous heard this, taking the prudent Ulysses, cunning in counsel, by the hand, he raised him from the hearth, and set him on a shining throne, removing his son, Laodamas beloved of men, who sat near him, and loved him especially. And a handmaiden bringing water in a beautiful golden ewer, to wash in, poured it over a silver cauldron; and near him she spread a polished table: and the venerable housekeeper, bringing food, placed it near him, putting upon it many dainties, gratifying him out of the means present: but much-enduring divine Ulysses drank and eat. And then the mighty Alcinous addressed the herald:

"O Pontonous, having mixed a cup, distribute wine to all