And thus Automedon, Diores’ son, Made answer: “Who is there among the Greeks Able like thee, Alcimedon, to rein And curb the spirit of immortal steeds? None were there save Patroclus while he lived, Wise as a god in council. Death and fate Now hold him. To thy hand I give the lash And shining reins, while I descend and fight.”

He spake, and into his swift chariot sprang Alcimedon, and took the lash and reins. Automedon leaped down. As Hector saw, He thus bespake Aeneas at his side:⁠—

“Aeneas, leader of the men of Troy, Equipped in brazen armor, I have seen Those coursers of the swift Aeacides Driven through the battle by unwarlike hands, And ’tis my hope, if thou wilt give thine aid, To seize them. They who guide them will not dare To stand and face us when we make the charge.”