That, spotless, as she came, the maid removes,

Pure from his arms, and guiltless of his loves.

That done, a sumptuous banquet shall be made,

And the full price of injured honour paid.

Stretch not henceforth, O prince.! thy sovereign might

Beyond the bounds of reason and of right;

'Tis the chief praise that e'er to kings belong'd,

To right with justice whom with power they wrong'd."

To him the monarch: "Just is thy decree,

Thy words give joy, and wisdom breathes in thee.

Each due atonement gladly I prepare;

And heaven regard me as I justly swear!

Here then awhile let Greece assembled stay,

Nor great Achilles grudge this short delay.

Till from the fleet our presents be convey'd,

And Jove attesting, the firm compact made.

A train of noble youths the charge shall bear;

These to select, Ulysses, be thy care:

In order rank'd let all our gifts appear,

And the fair train of captives close the rear:

Talthybius shall the victim boar convey,

Sacred to Jove, and yon bright orb of day."

For this (the stern Æacides replies)

Some less important season may suffice,

The Iliad of Homer