The mother for his bride, with princely dower Eudorus led the second band, a youth Of warlike mould, whom Polymela bore, Daughter of Phylas, graceful in the dance. In secrecy she brought him forth, for once The mighty Argus-queller saw the maid Among the choir of those who danced and sang At Dian’s festival, the huntress-queen, Who bears the golden shafts; he saw and loved And, climbing to her chamber, met by stealth The damsel, and she bore a gallant son, Eudorus, swift of foot and brave in war. When Ilithyia, midwife goddess, gave The boy to see the pleasant light of day, The stout Echecleus, son of Actor, brought The mother to his house, with liberal dower. The aged Phylas reared the child she left Tenderly as a son, and loved him well. Pisander, warlike son of Msemalus, Commanded the third squadron; none like him Among the Myrmidons could wield the spear Except Pelides. Phoenix, aged knight, Led the fourth squadron. With the fifth and last There came Alcimedon, Laerceus’ son, As leader. When their ranks were duly formed, Achilles spake to them in earnest words:—
“Now, Myrmidons, forget no single word Of all the threats