When he had spoken he entered and sat down on the stool from which he had risen. Then the two servants also went in. Eurymachus was already handling the bow, turning it this way and that, warming it by the fire. Even so he could not string it. He groaned heavily: This is grief for myself and for you all. Not so much for the marriage — there are many Achaean women — but if we are so far weaker than godlike Odysseus that we cannot string his bow, it is a shame that men yet unborn will hear of.
Antinous answered: It will not be so, Eurymachus — and you yourself know it. Today is the feast of the archer god throughout the land; who would bend bows then? Set it aside quietly. As for the axes — leave them standing; no one will carry them off. Come, let the wine-pourer start the cups, so we may pour drink-offerings and leave the bow. In the morning tell Melanthius to bring goats, the best in all the herds, so we may lay thighs on Apollo's altar and try the bow and end the contest. His word pleased them. Heralds poured water on their hands; young men filled the mixing-bowls and served all. When they had poured and drunk as much as they wished, Odysseus of many wiles spoke among them with crafty intent.
Listen to me, suitors of the famous queen — so I may say what the heart in my breast bids. I beg especially Eurymachus and godlike Antinous, since his word was fair: leave the bow for now and turn to the gods; in the morning the god will give strength to whoever he will. But come — put the bow in my hands, so that I may try my strength and hands among you, and see whether the force is still in me that once was in my limbs, or whether wandering and lack of care have destroyed it by now.
They were cut to the heart with anger, fearing he might string the polished bow. Antinous rebuked him: Wretched stranger, you have no sense at all. Are you not content to feast at ease among us, taking your share of the meal, and hearing all we say? Wine has hurt you, honey-sweet wine, which harms others too when a man gulps it greedily. Wine maddened even the Centaur Eurytion in the hall of Peirithous among the Lapiths; they sheared off his ears and nostrils, and from that the feud between Centaurs and men began. So I declare great harm for you if you string this bow. We will send you in a black ship to King Echetus, the bane of all mortals. Sit quiet and drink; do not contend with men younger than you.