Along the path the spy unwary flew;

Soft, at just distance, both the chiefs pursue.

So distant they, and such the space between,

As when two teams of mules divide the green,

(

To whom the hind like shares of land allows,)

When now new furrows part the approaching ploughs.

Now Dolon, listening, heard them as they pass'd;

Hector (he thought) had sent, and check'd his haste,

Till scarce at distance of a javelin's throw,

No voice succeeding, he perceived the foe.

As when two skilful hounds the leveret wind;

Or chase through woods obscure the trembling hind;

Now lost, now seen, they intercept his way,

And from the herd still turn the flying prey:

So fast, and with such fears, the Trojan flew;

So close, so constant, the bold Greeks pursue.

Now almost on the fleet the dastard falls,

And mingles with the guards that watch the walls;

When brave Tydides stopp'd; a gen'rous thought

(

Inspired by Pallas) in his bosom wrought,

Lest on the foe some forward Greek advance,

And snatch the glory from his lifted lance.

Then thus aloud: "Whoe'er thou art, remain;

This javelin else shall fix thee to the plain."

He said, and high in air the weapon cast,

Which wilful err'd, and o'er his shoulder pass'd;

392

The Iliad of Homer