The Sixth Battle—Death of Patroclus
Patroclus permitted by Achilles to take part in the war, on condition that he will return after repulsing the Trojans from the fleet—His preparations for the battle, putting on the armor of Achilles, and summoning the Myrmidons to follow him—Alarm of the Trojans on seeing him, supposing him to be Achilles—His exploits—The Trojans driven back from the fleet—Death of Sarpedon—The Trojans pursued by Patroclus, contrary to the command of Achilles, to the walls of Troy—Patroclus disarmed by Apollo, wounded by Euphorbus, and slain by Hector.
Such was the struggle for that gallant barque. Meanwhile Patroclus stood beside his friend The shepherd of the people, Peleus’ son, And shed hot tears, as when a fountain sheds Dark waters streaming down a precipice. The great Achilles, swift of foot, beheld And pitied him, and spake these wingèd words:—
“Why weepest thou, Patroclus, like a girl— A little girl that by her mother’s side Runs, importuning to be taken up, And plucks her by the robe, and stops her way, And looks at her, and cries, until at last She rests within her arms? Thou art like her, Patroclus, with thy tears. Dost thou then bring Sad tidings to the Myrmidons or me? Or hast thou news from Phthia? It is said That still Menoetius, son of Actor, lives, And Peleus also, son of Aeacus, Among the Myrmidons. Full bitterly Should we lament to hear that either died. Or mournest thou because the Achaians fall Through their own folly by the roomy ships? Speak, and hide nothing, for I too would know.”
And thou, O knight Patroclus, with a sigh Deep drawn, didst answer thus: “Be not displeased, Achilles, son of Peleus, bravest far Of all the