He spake; Patroclus, fearful of the wrath Of the archer-god, withdrew, and stood afar, While Hector, at the Scaean gates, restrained His coursers, doubtful whether to renew The fight by mingling with the crowd again, Or gather all his host within the walls By a loud summons. As he pondered thus, Apollo stood beside him in the form Of Asius, a young warrior and a brave, Uncle of Hector, the great horse-tamer, And brother of Queen Hecuba, and son Of Dymas, who in Phrygia dwelt beside The streams of the Sangarius. Putting on His shape and aspect, thus Apollo said:⁠—

“Why, Hector, dost thou pause from battle thus? Nay, it becomes thee not. Were I in might Greater than thou, as I am less, full soon Wouldst thou repent this shrinking from the war. Come boldly on, and urge thy firm-paced steeds Against Patroclus; slay him on the field, And Phoebus will requite thee with renown.”