Odysseus’ secret promise

28Odysseus, the sagacious, answering, said:
“Herdsman, since you do seem not ill inclined,
Nor yet unwise, and I perceive in you
A well-discerning mind, I therefore say,
And pledge my solemn oath —Zeus, first of gods,
Be witness, and this hospitable board
And hearth of good Odysseus, which has here
Received me —while you are within these halls
Odysseus will assuredly return,
And, if you choose to look, your eyes shall see
The suitors slain, who play the master here.”

29And thus the master of the herds rejoined:
“Stranger, may Zeus make good your words!
Then shall you see what strength is in my arm.”