icircular form, to which the reins were occasionally
fastened.--TR.]

20. The Greeks borrowed the vest and shield of Minerva from the
Lybians, only with this difference: the Lybian shield was fringed
with thongs of leather, and the Grecian with serpents.--HERODOTUS.

21. This expression (the gates of Heaven) is in the eastern manner,
and common in the Scriptures.

22. [{Area tonde}.]

23. Every thing that enters the dark empire of Hades disappears, and
is seen no more; hence the figurative expression, to put on Pluto's
helmet; that is to become invisible.

Footnotes for Book VI:
1. The Simois and Xanthus were two rivers of the Troad, which form a
junction before they reached the Hellespont. The Simois rose in Mt.
Ida, and the Xanthus had its origin near Troy.--FELTON.

2. Ajax commences his exploits immediately on the departure of the
gods from the battle. It is observed of this hero, that he is never
assisted by the deities.

3. Axylus was distinguished for his hospitality. This trait was
characteristic of the Oriental nations, and is often alluded to by
ancient writers. The rite of hospitality often united families
belonging to different and hostile nations, and was even
transmitted from father to son. This description is a fine tribute
to the generosity of Axylus.--FELTON

4. [Euryalus.]

5. Agamemnon's taking the life of the Trojan whom Menelaus had
pardoned, was according to the custom of the times. The historical
books of the Old Testament abound in instances of the like cruelty
to conquered enemies.

6. This important maxim of war is very naturally introduced, upon
Menelaus being ready to spare an enemy for the sake of a ransom.
According to Dacier, it was for such lessons as these that
Alexander so much esteemed Homer and studied his poem.

7. The custom of making donations to the gods is found among the
ancients, from the earliest times of which we have any record down
to the introduction of Christianity; and even after that period it
was observed by the Christians during the middle ages. Its origin
seems to have been the same as that of sacrifices: viz. the belief
that the gods were susceptible of influence in their conduct
towards men. These gifts were sometimes very costly, but often
nothing more than locks of hair cut from the head of the votary.

8. Diomede had knowingly wounded and insulted the deities; h