Page:The Odyssey of Homer, with the Hymns, Epigrams, and Battle of the Frogs and Mice (Buckley 1853).djvu/252

216 without [the design of] the deity; for when I saw it before me, I perceived that it was an omen. There is no other family more kingly than thine amongst the people of Ithaca, but ye are always powerful."

But him prudent Telemachus answered in turn: "I wish this word may be brought to pass, O stranger: then thou wouldst quickly experience my friendship, and many gifts from me, so that any one who met thee would give thee joy."

He spoke, and addressed Piræus his faithful companion: "O Piræus, son of Clytius, since thou even in other things dost obey me most of my companions, who attended me to Pylos; now also, taking the stranger to thy house, entertain him carefully, and honour him until I come."

But him spear-renowned Piræus answered in turn: "O Telemachus, although thou remain here for a long time, I will take care of this man, and there shall be no lack of hospitable entertainment for him."

Thus having spoken, he went on board the ship, and he ordered his companions both themselves to embark, and to loose the halsers. But they quickly went on board, and sat down on the benches. But Telemachus bound beautiful sandals under his feet, and took a strong spear, tipped with sharp brass, from the deck of the ship: and they loosed the halsers. They having thrust out sailed to the city, as Telemachus, the dear son of divine Ulysses, desired them. But his feet carried him on quickly advancing, until he came to the abode, where were his numberless swine, amongst which the swineherd, excellent as he was, slept, having kind feelings towards his masters.