A Year of Feasting

50“She spoke; her words persuaded easily
Our generous minds, and there from day to day
We lingered a full year, and banqueted
Nobly on plenteous meats and delicate wines.
But when the year was ended, and the hours
Renewed their circle, my beloved friends
From Circe’s palace called me forth and said: —

51“ ‘Good chief, do not forget your native land,
If fate indeed permit that ever you
Return in safety to that lofty pile
Your palace in the country of your birth.’

52“So spoke they, and my generous mind was moved.
All that day long until the set of sun
We sat and feasted on the abundant meats
And delicate wines; and when the sun went down
They took their rest within the darkened halls,
While I to Circe’s sumptuous couch went up,
A suppliant at her knees. The goddess heard
My prayer, as thus in winged words I said: —