And as he went up through Athens all the people ran out to see him, for his fame had gone before him, and every one knew of his mighty deeds, and they shouted, "Here comes the hero!"
But Theseus went on sadly and steadfastly, for his heart yearned after his father. He went up the holy stairs to the spot where the palace of Ægeus stood. He went straight into the hall and stood upon the threshold and looked round.
He saw his cousins sitting at the table, and loud they laughed and fast they passed the wine-cup round, but no Ægeus sat among them.
They saw Theseus and called to him, "Holla, tall stranger at the door, what is your will to-day?"
"I come to ask for hospitality."
"Then take it and welcome. You look like a hero and a bold warrior, and we like such to drink with us."
"I ask no hospitality of you; I ask it of Ægeus the King, the master of this house."
At that some growled, and some laughed and shouted, "Heyday! we are all masters here."
"Then I am master as much as the rest of you," said Theseus, and he strode past the table up the hall, and looked around for Ægeus, but he was nowhere to be seen.