regal luxury, and in the centre of the mansion they are
making ready for the banquet; the coverlets are embroidered
and of princely purple—on the tables is massy 20
silver, and chased on gold the gallant exploits of Tyrian
ancestors, a long, long chain of story, derived through
hero after hero ever since the old nation was young.
Æneas, for his fatherly love would not leave his heart at
rest, sends on Achates with speed to the ships to tell Ascanius 25
the news and conduct him to the city. On Ascanius
all a fond parent’s anxieties are centred. Presents,