Meanwhile, the guards were posted, under orders Of Messapus, their officer; and the walls Were ringed with fire. Fourteen Rutulian captains Led, each, a hundred men, bright in their gold, Plumed in their crimson, on patrol or resting, Or sprawling on the grass, gambling or drinking; The fires burn bright, the sentinels are watchful. Above them, from the wall, the Trojans, waiting, Maintain the heights with arms, and, anxious, test The strength of the gates, link bridge and battlement, Warriors in harness. Mnestheus and Serestus Urge on the work; they were to be the leaders, Aeneas said, in the event of trouble. Along the walls the host mounts guard; they share Relief and danger in turn, each at his post. Nisus, quick-handed with the javelin And the light arrows, very keen in arms, Stood guard beside the gate, Nisus, a son Of Hyrtacus, sent by the huntress Ida To join Aeneas; and near-by his friend Euryalus; no Trojan was more handsome Than he was, that first bloom of youth. They shared Assignments always, side by side in the charge, And side by side defenders. Here they were Together on sentry-duty at the gate. Nisus burst out:--“Euryalus, what is it? Do the gods put this ardor in our hearts Or does each man’s desire become his god? I want much more than this, I am not contented With all this peace and calm; my mind keeps calling To battle, or something big. Look! The Rutulians Are far too confident: their lights are scattered; They lie asleep or drunk; and all is silent. Listen! I have a plan. People and fathers Demand Aeneas, ask that men be sent him With information. If I can make them promise To let you go--(the glory of the action Is all I want myself)--I think that I Can find the way around that hill, can manage To reach the walls and fort of Pallanteum.” This shook Euryalus: a great love of praise Spoke in his answer to his eager comrade:-- “What, Nisus? Are you planning to leave me out In this bold scheme, planning to go alone Into such dangers? No; no, no. I am Opheltes’ son, a warrior trained among Greek terror and Trojan suffering; and I follow, With you, great-souled Aeneas and his fortunes. I have a spirit, not too fond of living, Not too dissatisfied to buy with death The honor that you strive for.” Nisus answered:-- “I had no fear on your account, be certain; That would be shameless of me: so may Jove, Or any god that looks on this with favor, Bring me back home triumphant. But disaster, As well you know, or god, or chance, might take me: If so, your youth being worthier, I’d have you Be my survivor, give to earth my body, Rescued or ransomed, or pay the final honor To, it might be, an empty tomb. I would not Cause sorrow to the only woman of many