Falcon Omen

55As thus he spoke, a falcon on the right
Flew by, Apollo’s messenger. A dove
Was in his talons, which he tore, and poured
The feathers down between Telemachus
And where the galley lay. When this was seen
By Theoclymenus, he called the youth
Apart, alone, and took his hand and said: —

56“The bird that passed us, O Telemachus,
Upon the right, flew not without a god
To guide him. When I saw it, well I knew
The omen. Not in Ithaca exists
A house of a more kingly destiny
Than yours, and ever will its power prevail.”

57And thus discreet Telemachus replied:
“O stranger, may your saying come to pass;
Then shall you quickly know me for your friend,
And be rewarded with such liberal gifts
That all who meet you shall rejoice with you.”