But that Zeus’ self sent unto him his messenger down from the sky,

Even Hermes, bidding him give to the stranger the welcoming hand.

How much less therefore, when pirate-rovers came to his land,

Should they long ’scape griefs of their own, the caitiffs whose only toil {590}

Was to stretch forth their hands in the taking of other men’s goods for a spoil,

And to weave dark webs of guile, and on herdmen folk to fall

With soul-dismaying shouts, and to harry steading and stall?

Yea, and the sons of Phrixus should render to him therebeside

Meet penalty, they who had dared in returning thither to guide

Felons, consorting with men which were minded to drive even him