Phaeacians’ Prophecy Fulfilled

18Then winged words were spoken in that throng
Of the Phaeacians, wielders of long oars,
And far renowned in feats of seamanship.
And, looking on each other, thus they said: —

19“Ha! what has stayed our good ship on the sea?
This moment we beheld her hastening home.”

20It was thus they talked, unweeting of the cause.
But then Alcinous to the assembly said: —

21“Yes! now I call to mind the ancient words
Of prophecy —my father’s —who was wont
To say that Poseidon sorely is displeased
That we should give to every man who comes
Safe escort to his home. In coming times —
Such was my father’s prophecy —the god
Would yet destroy a well-appointed barque
Of the Phaeacians on the misty deep
Returning from an escort, and would cause
A lofty mount to stand before our town.
So prophesied the aged man; his words
Are here fulfilled. Now do as I appoint,
And let us all obey. Henceforth refrain
From bearing to their homes the strangers thrown
Upon our coast; and let us sacrifice
To Poseidon twelve choice bullocks of the herd,
That he may pity us, nor hide our town
With a huge mountain from the sight of men.”

22He spoke, and they were awed and straightway brought
The bullocks for the sacrifice. So prayed
To sovereign Poseidon the Phaeacian chiefs
And princes, standing round the altar-fires.