Before the night was two thirds past the most splendid suit of armor that ever a hero had possessed was completed. The shield especially was a work of art. In the middle the earth was represented with the sea and sky, sun, moon, and stars. There were also two cities; one at peace and the other in the throes of war. In one a wedding was being celebrated with music and dance and there were many pictures of peaceful labor in field and vineyard. The other city was in a state of siege, and one could plainly see the besiegers and the citizens defending themselves. Around the edge of the shield flowed the deep river Oceanus.
Chapter XIII
Achilles and Agamemnon Reconciled—Achilles Goes into Battle
Rosy-fingered Eos was mounting the eastern sky as Thetis arrived at her son’s tent with the rich suit of armor. She found him still stretched beside Patroclus’ body with the mourning women about him. Achilles accepted Vulcan’s wonderful work joyfully, and the sight of the weapons made his eyes flash with a dangerous light. When he had carefully examined and admired the artistic embellishments he said to Thetis: “Mother, these weapons are not the work of a mortal; some god has forged them. Come, I will arm myself, that the Trojans may tremble at the glorious sight.”
He then approached the tents and ships of the Achaians, calling to them loudly to come forth. They rejoiced to hear the thunder of that voice, which had been silent so long, and came hastening to the council place. Diomedes was limping painfully and leaning on his lance. Even Agamemnon and Ulysses, both weakened by painful wounds, came dragging themselves along with staves. When they were all seated in their places, Achilles took up the sceptre and spoke. “Son of Atreus, let us be reconciled, as we have long wished to be. I had rather the gods had slain the rosy maiden before ever a quarrel on her account had estranged us and my anger sent so many noble Achaians down to Hades. But let us forget the bitter past. I have moderated my anger, for a generous man should not be implacable, however much he has been wronged. And now let us hasten to lead our people to the combat, for the Trojans must not burn the ships to-day.”
He was interrupted by a loud shout of exultation. The tidings that he had relented and would join them in the battle was enough to fill all hearts with joy. In their excitement they did not care to hear more, and not until the thunderous tones of the heralds had commanded silence could Agamemnon’s answer be heard. “Jupiter alone knows,” said he, “how blind rage could have led me to commit such an injustice, from which my heart now recoils and which I have long bitterly repented. Thou hast already heard from Ulysses of the gifts which I offered thee in reparation, and even now, that thou comest of thyself, I will take nothing back. My servants shall deliver all to thee, if thou wilt but save the Achaians.”
Smiling, the warlike Achilles answered him: “I care not whether thou givest or retainest thy treasure. Let us think only of the war and lead the battalions without delay against the enemy, for there is much work to do and great deeds must be accomplished this day.”
Now Ulysses spoke up. “Not thus, excellent Achilles; we must not be hasty. Let the soldiers partake of food, for the battle will not be of a few hours’ duration only. Thou hast more endurance than all others, but none but thee can hold out through the long day’s work without food or drink. Let the people first break their fast, while Agamemnon sends for the promised gifts, that we may all look upon them. Then he shall feast thee in his tent, that thou mayest enjoy all the honor due thee; for even a king should propitiate the man whom he hath wronged.”
“I gladly follow thy wise counsel,” answered Agamemnon, “and if thou wilt, thou mayest go thyself to my ships, with six picked men, to fetch the promised gifts.”
“Son of Atreus,” interrupted Achilles, “never mind the gifts. Let us think only of the slain, who are calling to us to avenge them. And ye talk of eating and drinking and of rest! If I were in command the people should be led forth fasting and at night; after the day’s work they should feast twice over. For my part, not a drop shall pass my lips until I shall have avenged my friend. I have no thoughts, but of murder, bloodshed, and the death rattle of falling men.”
“Great son of Peleus,” suggested Ulysses, “though thou art no doubt stronger and braver than I, yet I think I can give thee good counsel, for I have lived longer and seen much. Take my advice this once. Thou canst conquer only with warriors who are rested, refreshed, and eager for the fight; but the hungry and thirsty soldier will follow thee half-heartedly and in the end be overcome by his own weakness.”