Page:The Odyssey of Homer, with the Hymns, Epigrams, and Battle of the Frogs and Mice (Buckley 1853).djvu/266

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when the mother of dawn, rosy-fingered morning, appeared, then Telemachus, the dear son of divine Ulysses, bound beautiful sandals under his feet: and he took a strong spear which fitted his hands, setting out towards the city, and he addressed his swineherd:

"Father, I am going to the city, that my mother may see me (for I do not think that she will cease from hateful mourning and tearful grief before she beholds me myself): but thus I charge thee, bring the unhappy stranger to the city, that he may there beg a meal; but whoever chooses will give him a meal-cake and a small measure [of drink]; but it is not possible for me to support all men, having griefs in my mind. But if the stranger is very wroth, it will be sadder for him; for the truth is dear to me to speak."

But him much-planning Ulysses addressed in answer: "O my friend, I myself indeed do not wish to be detained; it is better for a beggar to beg a meal in a city, than in the country; for whoever chooses will give to me. For I am no longer of such an age to remain at the stalls, so as to obey a master who commands me in every thing. But go; this man, whom thou desirest, will lead me to the city immediately, at least when I am warmed with the fire, and there is heat from the sun; (for these garments which I have are very sad ones;) lest the morning frost should overcome me; and ye say the city is far off."

Thus he spoke: but Telemachus went through the abode, swiftly stepping forward with his feet: and he brooded evils for the suitors. But when he reached the well-built dwelling,