Book VIII

shaped, The best we have, and lay a well-bleached cloak And tunic in it; set upon the fire A brazen cauldron for our guest, to warm The water of his bath, that having bathed And viewed the gifts which the Phaeacian chiefs Have brought him, ranged in order, he may sit Delighted at the banquet and enjoy The music. I will give this beautiful cup Of gold, that he, in memory of me, May daily in his palace pour to Jove Libations, and to all the other gods.” He spake; Aretè bade her maidens haste To place an ample tripod on the fire. Forthwith upon the blazing fire they set A laver with three feet, and in it poured Water, and heaped fresh fuel on the flames. The flames crept up the vessel’s swelling sides, And warmed the water. Meantime from her room Aretè brought a beautiful chest, in which She laid the presents destined for her guest⁠— Garments and gold which the Phaeacians gave⁠— And laid the cloak and tunic with the rest, And thus in winged words addressed the chief:⁠—