"Sir," said he, "you do ill to nurse this rancour; the people perish fighting round this our town; you would yourself chide one whom you saw shirking his part in the combat.

Up then, or ere long the city will be in a blaze." And Alexandrus answered, "Hector, your rebuke is just; listen therefore, and believe me when I tell you that I am not here so much through rancour or ill-will towards the Trojans, as from a desire to indulge my grief.

My wife was even now gently urging me to battle, and I hold it better that I should go, for victory is ever fickle.

Wait, then, while I put on my armour, or go first and I will follow.

I shall be sure to overtake you." Hector made no answer, but Helen tried to soothe him.