Chapter IX Telemachus leaves Sparta and lands in Ithaca In the meanwhile Athene had not ceased planning for her favorites. That same night she went to Menelaus’ palace in Sparta to admonish Telemachus to return home and to warn him of the dangers lying in wait for him. “When thou art near the shores of Ithaca,” she said, “let thy companions row immediately to the city, but do thou go alone to the hut of old Eumæus, who is honestly devoted to thee, to spend the night. Let him hasten to the city to tell Penelope of thy safe arrival.” With these words the goddess disappeared. When morning dawned Telemachus arose and met Menelaus, who was also abroad, and immediately begged to be allowed to depart. “Far be it from me, dear youth, to keep thee here against thy will,” answered Menelaus. “But wait at least until I can give thee parting gifts and have the women prepare a good meal, that thou mayest set out strengthened and refreshed.” Menelaus bade the maids prepare a repast in haste and himself went into the treasury to select a gift for the departing guests. Helen also opened her chest, which held beautifully embroidered garments worked by her own hands. She took out the largest and finest one for Telemachus. Menelaus followed her with a golden goblet and a silver pitcher. He presented them, saying: “May Jupiter grant thee a prosperous voyage. Behold I am giving thee the most valuable thing that I possess. It was a present from the Sidonian king when I passed through Phœnicia. Truly it is as cunning a piece of work as though made by Hephæstos himself.” “I, too, desire to make thee a present,” said Helen, holding out the magnificent robe. “Let it adorn the bride on thy wedding day. Until then let thy worthy mother keep it in her chest. Fare thee well, and return in peace to thy stately palace and land of thy fathers.” Telemachus received the splendid gifts with gratitude and gave them to Pisistratus, who in silent admiration stowed them away in the chariot. Then they all went into the hall and sat down to the banquet. As soon as it was over, the two youths hastened to depart, and Menelaus accompanied them to their chariot with a goblet of wine, drinking to their health and giving them a final hand clasp with the words: “Farewell, youths. Bear my greeting to father Nestor who truly loved me like a father when we were fighting before Troy.”