But he, in farewell ere he left his home,
Took my right hand in his, and said to me,
Dear wife, we must not think the Achæan army
Will all, as they set forth, return from Troy,
In numbers and in bravery safe and sound:
Our foes are warriors skilled in spear and bow,
And horsemen good, say they, such as most quickly
Are wont in equal fight to turn the day;
Wherefore I know not what may be my hap:
But, come the worst, thou here must guard the house,