hed, equally-plied vessels. And he has declared that
he would advise others also to sail home, since ye will not now effect
the destruction of lofty Ilium; for far-resounding Jove hath greatly
stretched forth his hand [over it], and the people have taken courage.
Thus he spoke; and here are these who followed me, Ajax, and the two
heralds, both prudent men, to tell these things. But aged Phoenix hath
lain down there, for thus he ordered, that in the morning, if he chose,
he might follow him in the ships to his dear father-land; but he will by
no means carry him off against his will."

Thus he spake; and they all became mute in silence, marvelling at his
speech, for he harangued with great vehemence. Long were the sorrowing
sons of the Greeks mute, till at length Diomede, valiant in the din of
battle, addressed them:

"Most glorious son of Atreus, king of men, Agamemnon, would that thou
hadst not supplicated the illustrious son of Peleus, offering countless
gifts, for he is haughty even otherwise:[330] now again hast thou
excited him much more to insolence. Let us, however, leave him alone,
whether he go or remain, for he will fight again at that time when his
mind within his breast urges, and the Deity incites him. But come, let
us all obey as I shall advise: go now to rest, having satisfied your
hearts with food and wine, for this is force and vigour. But when fair
rosy-fingered morn has shone forth, draw up the infantry and cavalry
with all haste before the ships, cheering them: and do thou thyself
likewise fight in the foremost ranks."

Thus he spake, but all the kings approved, admiring the speech of
Diomede, the breaker of steeds. Having then offered libations, they
departed each to his tent; there they lay do to to rest, and enjoyed the
boon of sleep.[331]

[Footnote 330: I am indebted to Milton.]

[Footnote 331: Id.]

BOOK THE TENTH.

ARGUMENT.

Diomede and Ulysses, as spies, penetrate the camp of the Trojans by
night, and first entrap and slay Dolon, who had set out on the same
errand for the Trojans. Having obtained from him the desired
information, they then attack the Thracians, and slay their king,
Rhesus, while asleep. At the suggestion of Minerva, they then return to
the camp.

The other chiefs, indeed, of all the Greeks were sleeping the whole
night at the ships, overcome by soft slumber; but sweet sleep possessed
not Aga