the intervening space divide[585] the force of war, but he will combat
for the city and our wives. We will go, then, towards the city--be
persuaded by me--for so it must be. Ambrosial night at present hath made
swift-footed Pelides cease; but if, rushing forth to-morrow with his
arms, he shall find us here, then will some one know him; for gladly
will he reach sacred Ilium, whosoever shall escape: but dogs and
vultures will devour many of the Trojans. O that such [tidings] may be
far from our ears.[586] But if we be obedient to my words, although sad,
we shall have protection[587] in the assembly during the night, and the
towers and lofty gates, and the valves fitted to them, long, well
polished, fastened together, will protect the city. But to-morrow, at
early dawn, we will stand on the towers, arrayed in armour; and it would
be difficult for him, even if he should wish it, coming from the ships,
to fight with us around the wall. Back again will he go to the ships,
after he has satiated his high-necked steeds with a varied course,
driving beneath the city. But his mind will not permit him to rush
within, nor will he ever lay it waste; sooner shall the fleet dogs
devour him."

[Footnote 585: This is expressive of the vicissitudes of the
conflict.]

[Footnote 586: [Greek: Eithe de moi touto ou monon me ophthein,
alla unde akousthein].--Schol.]

[Footnote 587: One of the Scholiasts, however, would take [Greek:
sthenos] as=[Greek: stratian], i.e. we shall keep the troops in a
body. But see Kennedy.]

Him, then, crest-tossing Hector sternly regarding, addressed:

"No longer, O Polydamas, dost thou speak these things agreeable to me,
thou who advisest us, returning, to be cooped up in the city. Are ye not
yet satiated with being shut up within the towers? Formerly indeed all
articulate-speaking men pronounced the city of Priam rich in gold and in
brass; but now have the rich treasures of our houses perished, and many
possessions have already departed to Phrygia and agreeable Moeonia, to be
sold, since mighty Jove was enraged. But at this crisis, when the son of
politic Saturn has granted me to obtain glory at the ships, and to hem
in the Greeks by the sea, no longer, foolish man, disclose these
counsels to the people: for none of the Trojans will obey; nor will I
permit them. But come, let us all obey as I shall advise. At present
take supper in your ranks throughout the army; be mindful of the watc