21/78 Therefore we will make no long delay in our sailing for these things' sake, when the breezes but blow fair. But, friends,--for common to all is our return to Hellas hereafter, and common to all is our path to the land of Aeetes--now therefore with ungrudging heart choose the bravest to be our leader, who shall be careful for everything, to take upon him our quarrels and covenants with strangers." (ll. 341-344) Thus he spake; and the young heroes turned their eyes towards bold Heracles sitting in their midst, and with one shout they all enjoined upon him to be their leader; but he, from the place where he sat, stretched forth his right hand and said: (ll. 345-347) "Let no one offer this honour to me. For I will not consent, and I will forbid any other to stand up. |