Eumaeus



My exceptionally noble king and friend, My kingship and awesome master, The great Odysseus, With utmost respect do I kneel down before you Today in this grand palace of yours. For years and years I have served you As a loyal swineherd here on Ithaca. I remember vividly that day 12 years ago When we slaughtered the horde of brazen suitors, The day of our victory. I am forever thankful for the deaths of those revolting men, And have given you droves of pigs That roam the rolling hills of Ithaca in return. But alas, I have grown old and weak, And am no longer able to care for the pigs Or perform the many tasks I did effortlessly in the past. So I ask you this: Might I hold some position as a housekeeper, Where I could serve you and your family well? I feel as if I need to further prove my loyalty to you, And would be honored to be a loyal servant of yours Who could give you food, bathe you, clean, anything you desire. Throughout the years my craft has taught me To be caring and friendly, Just as you were to me. You are my master, my king, And my love for you is and will always be As great as the gods themselves.