fixed in the ground behind him, and the nether point 538 of the spear was shaken; then the rapid weapon spent its force. Thus the javelin of Æneas, quivering entered the earth, for it had fled in vain from his strong hand. Then Æneas was enraged in his mind, and said: “Meriones, quickly indeed, although being a dancer, 539 would my spear have made thee cease for ever, if I had struck thee.” Footnote 537: (return) It has been well observed that Homer never describes a wound as mortal, except when it is inflicted in a part really vital. Footnote 538: (return) The οὐρίαχος was the same as the σαυρωτὴρ. See Glossæ Herodoteæ, and Hesych. p. 820. Footnote 539: (return) A probable allusion to the Pyrrhic dance, which was in use among the Cretans, from whose country Meriones had come. See the Scholiast, and Müller, Dorians, vol. ii, p. 349. But him then in turn spear-renowned Meriones answered: “Æneas, it were difficult for thee, although being brave, to extinguish the valour of all men, whosoever may come against thee about to repulse thee; for thou too art mortal. And if I, taking aim, should strike thee in the middle with my sharp spear, although being brave, and confiding in thy might, thou wouldst give glory to me, but thy soul to steed-famed Pluto.” Thus he spoke; but him the brave son of Menœtius rebuked: “Meriones, why dost thou, although being brave, harangue thus? O, my friend, the Trojans will not retire from the corse by opprobrious words: first will the earth possess some of them; for the emergency of battle is placed in the hands, but of counsel in words; wherefore it is by no means necessary to multiply words, but to fight.”