counsellors of the Phaeacians, that ye may learn concerning this
stranger, who hath lately come to the hall of Alcinous."

So she roused their desire, and the place of assembly was filled
to the utmost; much did the men marvel to see Ulysses, for Athene
had poured marvellous grace upon him, making him fairer and taller
and stronger to see.

Then the King rose up and spake: "Hearken, captains and
counsellors of the people, to what I say. This stranger hath come
to my hall; I know not who he is or whence he comes, whether it be
from the rising or the setting of the sun; and he prays that he
may be safely carried to his home. Let us therefore choose a ship
that hath never sailed before, and two and fifty youths that are
the best to ply the oar; and when ye have made ready the ship,
then come to my house and feast; I will provide well for all. Bid.
also, Demodocus [Footnote: De-mod'-o-cus.] the minstrel to come,
for the gods have given to him above all others the gift of song
wherewith to rejoice the hearts of men."

Then they did as the King counselled. They made ready the ship,
and moored her by the shore, and after that they went to the
palace of the King. From one end thereof to the other it was
crowded, for many were there, both young and old. And Alcinous
slew for them twelve sheep, and eight swine, and two oxen; and his
men prepared for the people a goodly feast.

Then came the servants of the King, leading the blind minstrel by
the hand. The servants set him in a silver chair, in the midst of
the guests, and hung a harp above his head, and showed him how he