the Argo. Jason now related to his
companions the particulars of his interview with the Libyan prophetess, and
after some deliberation it was decided to carry the Argo on their
shoulders, and to follow wherever the sea-horse should lead them. They then
commenced a long and weary journey through the desert, and at last, after
twelve days of severe toil and terrible suffering, the welcome sight of the
sea greeted their view. In gratitude for having been saved from their
manifold dangers they offered up sacrifices to the gods, and launched their
ship once more into the deep waters of the ocean.

ARRIVAL AT CRETE.--With heartfelt joy and gladness they proceeded on their
homeward voyage, and after some days arrived at the island of Crete, where
they purposed to furnish themselves with fresh provisions and water. Their
landing, however, was opposed by a terrible giant who guarded the island
against all intruders. This giant, whose name was Talus, was the last of
the Brazen race, and being formed of brass, was invulnerable, except in his
right ankle, where there was a sinew of flesh and a vein of blood. As he
saw the Argo {230} nearing the coast, he hurled huge rocks at her, which
would inevitably have sunk the vessel had not the crew beat a hasty
retreat. Although sadly in want of food and water, the Argonauts had
decided to proceed on their journey rather than face so powerful an
opponent, when Medea came forward and assured them that if they would trust
to her she would destroy the giant.

Enveloped in the folds of a rich purple mantle, she stepped on deck, and
after invoking the aid of the Fates, uttered a magic incantation, which had
the effect of throwing Talus into a deep sleep. He stretched himself at
full length upon the ground, and in doing so grazed his vulnerable ankle
against the point of a sharp rock, whereupon a mighty stream of blood
gushed forth from the wound. Awakened by the pain, he tried to rise, but in
vain, and with a mighty groan of anguish the giant fell dead, and his
enormous body rolled heavily over into the deep. The heroes being now able
to land, provisioned their vessel, after which they resumed their homeward
voyage.

ARRIVAL AT IOLCUS.--After a terrible night of storm and darkness they
passed the island of AEgina, and at length reached in safety the port of
Iolcus, where the recital of their numerous adventures and hair-breadth
escapes was listened to with wondering admiration by their
fellow