BOOK II.
ARGUMENT.
But when the mother of dawn,[1] rosy-fingered morning, appeared, then the dear son of Ulysses arose from his bed, having put on his garments: and around his shoulder he slung a sharp sword; and beneath his shining feet he bound beautiful sandals. And he went forth from his chamber like unto a god to behold.[2] And forthwith he ordered the shrill-voiced heralds to call to an assembly the long-haired Grecians. They indeed called them; and they were very quickly assembled. But when they were assembled, and were collected together, he proceeded to go to the forum, and in his hand he held a brazen spear. Not alone, for two swift[3] dogs followed in company with him; and over him Minerva shed divine grace. And all the people gazed at him as he came, and he sat in the seat of his father, and the old men gave way. Then the hero Ægyptius began to harangue them, who was bent with old age, and knew ten thousand things. For his dear son, the warrior Antiphus, went with godlike Ulysses in the hollow ships to steed-excelling Ilium. But the fierce Cyclops slew him in his hollow cave, and prepared for his last[4] supper. And there were three others; but one of them, Eurynomus, associated with the suitors: but two were always employed in their paternal duties. But not even thus did he forget him,[5] lamenting and grieving. He pouring forth tears harangued them and spoke:
"Hear now from me, Ithacans, what I shall say. Never
