Odysseus Tests the Herdsmen

18The herdsman of Odysseus meantime left
The palace, and with him the swineherd went,
And after them Odysseus. When they all
Were now without the gate and palace court,
Odysseus spoke to them, and blandly said: —

19“Herdsman and swineherd, shall I say to you
Somewhat, or shall I keep it back? My heart
Moves me to say it. Should Odysseus come,
Led by some god, and suddenly, what aid
Would he receive from you? Would you take part
With him, or with the suitors? Frankly speak;
And tell me what your hearts would bid you do.”

20Then answered thus the keeper of the herds:
“O Father Zeus! would you but grant my wish,
And let some god conduct him hither, then
Shall it be seen what might is in these hands!”

21So also did Eumaeus offer prayer
To all the deities, that speedily
The wise Odysseus might return; and when
The chief perceived in all its truth the thought
And purpose of their hearts, he spoke and said: —