History of the Peloponnesian War

Homer shows most clearly that such was the case, in the following verses, taken from a hymn to Apollo.

1. Anon to Delos, Phoebus, wouldst thou come,
2. Still most delighting in thine island-home;
3. Where the long-robed Ionians thronging meet,
4. With wives and children, at thy hallow'd seat;
5. With buffets, dance, and song extol thy name,
6. And win thy smile upon their solemn game.

That there was a musical contest also, and that they went to take part in it, he shows again in the following verses, taken from the same hymn. For after mentioning the Delian dance of the women, he ends his praise of the god with these verses, in which he also makes mention of himself.

2. Now be Apollo kind, and Dian too;
3. And ye, fair Delian damsels, all adieu!
4. But in your memory grant me still a home;
5. And oft as to your sacred isle may come
6. A pilgrim care-worn denizen of earth,
7. And ask, while joining in your social mirth,
8. "Maidens, of all the bards that seek your coast,

9. Who sings the sweetest, and who charms you most?

10. Then answer one and all, with gracious smile,
11. A blind old man who lives in Chios' rocky isle.

Such evidence does Homer afford of there having been, even in early times, a great assembly and festival at Delos. But afterwards, though the islanders and the Athenians sent the bands of dancers with sacrifices, the games and the greater part of the observances were abolished—as is most probable, through adversity—until the Athenians held the games at that time, with horse-races, which before had not been usual.