Scarce their weak drivers guide them through the fight.

Can such opponents stand when we assail?

Unite thy force, my friend, and we prevail."

The son of Venus to the counsel yields;

Then o'er their backs they spread their solid shields:

With brass refulgent the broad surface shined,

And thick bull-hides the spacious concave lined.

Them Chromius follows, Aretus succeeds;

Each hopes the conquest of the lofty steeds:

In vain, brave youths, with glorious hopes ye burn,

In vain advance! not fated to return.

Unmov'd, Automedon attends the fight,

Implores the Eternal, and collects his might.

Then turning to his friend, with dauntless mind:

Oh keep the foaming coursers close behind!

Full on my shoulders let their nostrils blow,

For hard the fight, determined is the foe;

'Tis Hector comes: and when he seeks the prize,

War knows no mean; he wins it or he dies."

Then through the field he sends his voice aloud,

And calls the Ajaces from the warring crowd,

With great Atrides. "Hither turn, (he said,)

Turn where distress demands immediate aid;

649

The Iliad of Homer