And he rushed after the cry, near Pegae, like some beast of the wild wood whom the bleating of sheep has reached from afar, and burning with hunger he follows, but does not fall in with the flocks; for the shepherds beforehand have penned them in the fold, but he groans and roars vehemently until he is weary.

Thus vehemently at that time did the son of Eilatus groan and wandered shouting round the spot; and his voice rang piteous.

Then quickly drawing his great sword he started in pursuit, in fear lest the boy should be the prey of wild beasts, or men should have lain in ambush for him faring all alone, and be carrying him off, an easy prey.

Hereupon as he brandished his bare sword in his hand he met Heracles himself on the path, and well he knew him as he hastened to the ship through the darkness.

And straightway he told the wretched calamity while his heart laboured with his panting breath.
"My poor friend, I shall be the first to bring thee tidings of bitter woe.