posterity. Has indeed some relation of thine perished before Ilium, who was brave, a son-in-law, or father-in-law, who are nearest to us after both our own blood and race? Or perchance even some man thy companion, knowing things pleasing to thee, brave; since he indeed is not at all inferior to a brother, who, being a companion, kens what is prudent."
BOOK IX.
ARGUMENT.
But him much-planning Ulysses addressed in answer: "O King Alcinous, thou most illustrious of all the people, of a truth it is a fine thing to listen to such a bard as he is, like unto the gods in his voice; for I do not think there is any event[1] more delightful, than when joy possesses a whole people, and the banqueters sitting in order through a house listen to a bard; and near them tables are filled with bread and meat; and the cup-bearer drawing wine from a bowl, carries it, and pours it into the cups; this seems to me in my mind to be something most excellent. But thy mind has turned to inquire concerning my sad griefs, that still more lamenting I may mourn. What first, indeed, what next, and what last of all shall I relate? For the heavenly gods have given me many griefs. But now I first will tell my name, that ye both may know; and that I hereafter, having escaped from a cruel day,[2] may be a host unto you, although inhabiting houses at a distance. I am Ulysses, the son of Laertes, who am an object of attention to men in all kinds of craft, and my fame reaches heaven. And I inhabit Ithaca, well situated towards the west; and in it there is a mountain,
