25
Neoptolemus
Look, prince Odysseus - what you ask is easy;
I think I see the cave you just described.
Odysseus
Far up, or further down? I cannot see it.
Neoptolemus
Up high - and I can hear no sound of footsteps.
Odysseus
30 Make sure that no one lies asleep inside.
Neoptolemus
I see an empty chamber - no one near.
Odysseus
And are there no provisions there for living?
Neoptolemus
A pile of leaves pressed down for a man to sleep on.
Odysseus
Is all the rest of the cave deserted then?
Neoptolemus
35 All but a cup carved from a piece of wood
by a clumsy workman's efforts - and some kindling.
Odysseus
This treasure-house which you describe is his.
Neoptolemus
And over here - ugh! - filthy rags are lying,
set out to dry, and full of hideous pus.
Odysseus
40 Clearly this dwelling place belongs to him;
he must be somewhere near: a man whose leg
was maimed so long ago will not walk far.
Either he's gone to look for food, or else
to find a soothing medicine for his wound.
45Send this man here to spy, and to prevent him
from coming suddenly; for he would rather
take me than all the other Greeks combined.
Neoptolemus
Done - be assured the path will be well guarded.
Spy withdraws.
Now, if you will, speak further of your plan.
Odysseus
50 Son of Achilles, now is the time to show
your true nobility, not with strength alone,
but, if you hear some unexpected plan,
yet serve me - for you came as my assistant.
Neoptolemus
What are you asking?