thought, if I be not unworthy, shall live in my grateful thoughts. But tell me just what it is whereof thou hast spoken,—that I may learn what strange design on the560 part of the Greeks thou announcest to me.
Me. Pursuers have started in quest of thee with ships,—the aged Phoenix and the sons of Theseus.
Ne. To bring me back by force, or by fair words?
Me. I know not; but I have come to tell thee what I have heard.
Ne. Can Phoenix and his comrades be showing such zeal on such an errand, to please the Atreidae?
Me. The errand is being done, I can assure thee,—and without delay.
Ne. Why, then, was not Odysseus ready to sail for this purpose, and to bring the message himself? Or did some fear restrain him?
Me. Oh, he and the son of Tydeus were setting570 forth in pursuit of another man, as I was leaving port.
Ne. Who was this other in quest of whom Odysseus himself was sailing?
Me. There was a man… But tell me first who that is yonder,—and whatever thou sayest, speak not loud.
Ne. Sir, thou seest the renowned Philoctetes.
Me. Ask me no more, then, but convey thyself with all speed out of this land.
Ph. What is he saying, my son? Why is the sailor trafficking with thee about me in these dark whispers?
Ne. I know not his meaning yet; but whatever he580 would say he must say openly to thee and me and these.
Me. Seed of Achilles, do not accuse me to the army