He took Medon into the street.
“Tell me, Medon, was Nikander angry with his daughter?”
“Oh, Master, how should I know?” But Eëtíon saw at once that Medon did know and did not rest until he got the truth of him.
Then he went back into the house and called Baltè.
“Baltè,” he said, “take with you two men slaves and go up on Parnassos by the far eastern path and look for your mistress.”
“But, Master, surely she would not go there. Wolves are there.”
“She would not stop for wolves,” Said Eëtíon sharply, and Baltè saw his eyes fill with tears.
“If you reach to the Korykian cave, Baltè, and yet do not find her, then come down by the hither path and I will meet you at the top of the Bad Steps. Give me a flask of wine and my sword there.”
Then Eëtíon fairly ran out and through the lane up the slender path he knew so well.
On the hard rocky earth he could find no trace of her. But still he climbed on, his heart aching for the dear lonely child who had fled from unkindness and injustice.