Smiling, the warlike Achilles answered him: “I care not whether thou givest or retainest thy treasure. Let us think only of the war and lead the battalions without delay against the enemy, for there is much work to do and great deeds must be accomplished this day.” Now Ulysses spoke up. “Not thus, excellent Achilles; we must not be hasty. Let the soldiers partake of food, for the battle will not be of a few hours’ duration only. Thou hast more endurance than all others, but none but thee can hold out through the long day’s work without food or drink. Let the people first break their fast, while Agamemnon sends for the promised gifts, that we may all look upon them. Then he shall feast thee in his tent, that thou mayest enjoy all the honor due thee; for even a king should propitiate the man whom he hath wronged.” “I gladly follow thy wise counsel,” answered Agamemnon, “and if thou wilt, thou mayest go thyself to my ships, with six picked men, to fetch the promised gifts.” “Son of Atreus,” interrupted Achilles, “never mind the gifts. Let us think only of the slain, who are calling to us to avenge them. And ye talk of eating and drinking and of rest! If I were in command the people should be led forth fasting and at night; after the day’s work they should feast twice over. For my part, not a drop shall pass my lips until I shall have avenged my friend. I have no thoughts, but of murder, bloodshed, and the death rattle of falling men.” “Great son of Peleus,” suggested Ulysses, “though thou art no doubt stronger and braver than I, yet I think I can give thee good counsel, for I have lived longer and seen much. Take my advice this once. Thou canst conquer only with warriors who are rested, refreshed, and eager for the fight; but the hungry and thirsty soldier will follow thee half-heartedly and in the end be overcome by his own weakness.” Without awaiting Achilles’ answer, the leaders gave the soldiers the signal to break their fast. Ulysses quickly selected six good comrades and went to fetch the presents from Agamemnon’s ships and tents. He selected the basins, ewers, the horses and women, weighed out ten pounds of gold, and then summoned the fair Briseïs to follow him. On their return to the council place Agamemnon sent the gifts immediately to Achilles’ encampment.