broken into many pieces against the rocks. But out of its cleverly-wrought fastenings the keel was left, on which I made my difficult escape by an unexpected chance, and also Helen with me, whom I dragged away from Troy. But I do not know the name of this countryand its people; for I was embarrassed to burst into a crowd and make inquiries, and so I concealed these shabby clothes, in shame over my misfortune. For whenever a man of high degree is badly off, he falls into an unaccustomed state which is worse than that of one who has long been unfortunate.But poverty is wearing me away; for I have neither food, nor clothes around my body; one can compare what I am wearing to rags cast out of the ship. The sea snatched away all the robes I once wore, splendid clothes and ornaments. Deep in a caveI hid the woman who caused all my troubles, and have come here, after compelling those of my friends who survived to guard my wife. I have come alone, seeking help for those friends there, if I may find it somehow after careful search.When I saw this home, surrounded by walls, and the majestic gateways of some prosperous man, I came near; sailors can hope to get something from wealthy homes; but from those who have no livelihood—they could not help us, even if they wanted to.Hello! Is there some gatekeeper who might come from the house and announce my troubles within?Old womanWho’s at the door? Get away from the house and don’t annoy my master by standing at the court-yard gate! Or else you will die because you area Hellene, and they have no business here.MenelaosMy good woman, you can say these same words in a different tone, for I shall be persuaded; but let go your angry speech.Old womanGo away! Stranger, my orders are to let no Hellene come near this house.MenelaosAh! Do not push me, or thrust me away by force.Old womanYou are to blame, for not heeding what I say.MenelaosAnnounce to your master inside—Old womanI think someone would be sorry, if I announced your words.MenelaosI come as a shipwrecked man and a guest; such people are safe from violence.Old womanWell, go to some other house instead of this one.MenelaosNo; I am going inside. You listen to me.Old womanKnow that you’re only causing trouble; and soon you’ll be thrown out by force.MenelaosAlas! Where are those glorious armies of mine?Old womanPerhaps you were grand somewhere, but not here.