So talked they with each other. Ajax, whelmed Beneath a storm of darts, meantime but ill Endured the struggle, for the will of Jove And the fierce foe prevailed. His shining helm Rang fearfully, as on his temples fell, Stroke following after stroke, the weapons hurled Against its polished studs. The buckler borne Firmly on his left arm, and shifted oft From side to side, had wearied it, and yet The Trojans, pressing round him, could not drive, With all their darts, the hero from his place. Heavily heaved his panting chest; his limbs Streamed with warm sweat; there was no breathing time; On danger danger followed, toil on toil.

Now, Muses, dwellers of Olympus, tell How first the galleys of the Greeks were fired.