come To Peleus’ stately dwelling, on our way Gathering a host in fertile Greece, and saw The great Menoetius there, and there we found Achilles with thee. There the aged knight Peleus was burning, in the palace-court, A steer’s fat thighs to Jove the Thunderer, And lifted up a golden cup and poured Dark wine upon the blazing sacrifice. And both of you were busy with the flesh When we were at the threshold. As he saw Our coming, in surprise Achilles sprang Toward us, and took our hands and led us in, Bade us be seated, and before us placed The generous banquet due to stranger-guests. Then, having feasted, I began discourse, Exhorting you to join us. Both of you At once consented, and your fathers gave Their admonitions. Aged Peleus charged His son Achilles to excel the rest In valor, while Menoetius, in his turn, The son of Actor, gave thee this command:—
“ ‘My son, Achilles is the nobler born, But thou art elder. He surpasses thee By far in warlike might, but thou must prompt His mind with prudent counsels; thou must warn And guide him; he will hearken to thy words Meant for his good.’ The old man charged thee thus. Thou hast forgotten it. Yet speak thou now To Peleus’ warlike son; and haply he May heed thy counsels. Thou perchance mayst