th,
however, a companion, the hero Alcimedon, son of Laerceus, the son of
AEmon, beheld him with his eyes, and stood behind his chariot, and
addressed Automedon:

[Footnote 561: The Trojans.]

[Footnote 562: _I.e._ splendid, of surpassing workmanship. Others
refer the epithet to the divine gift mentioned in ver. 443, to
the fabrication of the chariot by the god Vulcan, or to the
origin of Achilles himself from a goddess.]

"Which of the gods, O Automedon, has placed a foolish counsel in thy
bosom, and taken from thee sound judgment; inasmuch as alone thou
fightest in the foremost ranks with the Trojans? Thy companion indeed is
slain; and Hector himself vaunts, having upon his shoulders the armour
of AEacides."

Him then Automedon, the son of Diores, addressed:

"Alcimedon, what other of the Greeks, then, is like thee, to subdue and
restrain the spirit of immortal steeds, unless Patroclus, whilst alive,
a counsellor equal to the gods? Now, however, death and fate possess
him. Nevertheless, do thou take the lash and beautiful reins; but I will
descend from the chariot, that I may fight." [563]

[Footnote 563: Alcimedon in this address condemns the imprudence
of his friend, who, in this moment of imminent danger, takes upon
him the joint offices of warrior [Greek: (parabates)] and
charioteer [Greek: (eniochos)].]

Thus he spoke, but Alcimedon, ascending the chariot, swift in war,
instantly took in his hands the lash and reins, whilst Automedon leaped
down; but illustrious Hector perceived this, and immediately addressed
AEneas, being near:

"AEneas, counsellor of the brazen-mailed Trojans, I have observed these
two steeds of Achilles proceeding through the battle with unskilful
charioteers. I therefore may hope to capture them, if thou, at least,
desire it in thy mind; for standing opposite, they will not dare to
withstand us, rushing on to fight in battle."

Thus he spoke; nor did the brave son of Anchises disobey. Both advanced
direct, covered as to their shoulders with bulls' hides, dry, thick; and
upon them much brass was plated. But along with them went both Chromius
and god-like Aretus: and their mind greatly hoped to slay them, and to
drive away the long-necked steeds. Foolish,[564] for they were not
destined to return back bloodlessly from Automedon, for he, having
prayed to father Jove, was filled with fortitude and valour, as to his
dark mind, and immediately addressed Alcim