Xanthus and Balius, coursers that in speed Were like the wind. Podargè brought them forth To Zephyrus, while she, the Harpy, grazed By ocean’s streams. Upon the outer side He joined to them the noble Pedasus, Brought by Achilles from the captured town Where ruled Eëtion. Though of mortal stock, Well might he match with those immortal steeds.

Meanwhile Achilles armed the Myrmidons, Passing from tent to tent. Like ravening wolves, Terribly strong, that, having slain among The hills an antlered stag of mighty size, Tear and devour it, while their jaws are stained With its red blood, then gather in a herd About some darkly flowing stream, and lap The sullen water with their slender tongues, And drop the clots of blood from their grim mouths And, although gorged, are fierce and fearless still⁠— So came the leaders of the Myrmidons, In rushing crowds, about the valiant friend Of swift Aeacides. Among them stood Achilles, great in war, encouraging The charioteers and warriors armed with shields.