Page:The Odyssey of Homer, with the Hymns, Epigrams, and Battle of the Frogs and Mice (Buckley 1853).djvu/146

110 am the thirteenth; of whom do each of you bring a well-washed veil, and a tunic, and a talent of precious gold. And let us all together immediately bring them; that the stranger, having them in his hands, may go to supper rejoicing in his mind: but let Euryalus appease him with words and a present; since he did not speak rightly."

Thus he spoke; but they all praised, and ordered it; and each of them despatched a herald to fetch the gifts; but him Euryalus answered, and addressed in turn:

"O king Alcinous, most illustrious of all the people, therefore I will appease the stranger, as thou commandest; I will give him this all-brazen sword, whose hilt is silver, and a scabbard of newly-sawn ivory is set around it; and it will be worth much to him."

Thus saying, he placed the silver-studded sword in his hands, and speaking winged words, addressed him:

"Hail, O father stranger; and if any grievous word has been uttered, may the storms, having snatched it up immediately, carry it away; but to thee may the gods grant both to behold thy wife, and to reach thy country; since thou art suffering misfortunes a long time away from friends."

But him much-planning Ulysses addressed in answer: "Much hail thou also, friend, and may the gods give thee happiness; nor mayest thou hereafter at all have regret for this sword, which thou hast given me, appeasing me with words."

He spoke, and girt about his shoulders the silver-studded sword; and the sun set, and the famous gifts were present for him. And the noble heralds bore them to [the house] of Alcinous; and the sons of illustrious Alcinous having received them, placed the very beautiful gifts near their venerable mother. And the sacred might of Alcinous led the way for them, and coming they sat on lofty thrones; then truly mighty Alcinous addressed Arete:

"Hither, lady, bring a handsome chest, whichever is best; and in it place a well-washed cloak, and a tunic; and warm for him a brazen vessel with fire, and heat water, that both having washed himself, and having seen all the presents placed in order, which the illustrious Phæacians have brought here, he may be delighted both with the banquet, and by hearing the chaunt of song: and I will give him this my cup,