in all those which follow it forms a prominent feature. Here, then, in the anomaly as in the propriety of the Iliad, the destiny of Achilles, or rather this peculiar crisis of it, forms the pervading bond of connexion to the whole poem."--Mure, vol. i., p. 257. 187 --_What cause of fear,_ &c. "Seest thou not this? Or do we fear in vain Thy boasted thunders, and thy thoughtless reign?" Dryden's Virgil, iv. 304. 188 --_In exchange._ These lines are referred to by Theophilus, the Roman lawyer, iii. tit. xxiii. Section 1, as exhibiting the most ancient mention of barter. 189 "A similar bond of connexion, in the military details of the narrative, is the decree issued by Jupiter, at the commencement of the eighth book, against any further interference of the gods in the battles. In the opening of the twentieth book this interdict is withdrawn. During the twelve intermediate books it is kept steadily in view. No interposition takes place but on the part of the specially authorised agents of Jove, or on that of one or two contumacious deities, described as boldly setting his commands at defiance, but checked and reprimanded for their disobedience; while the other divine warriors, who in the previous and subsequent cantos are so active in support of their favourite heroes, repeatedly allude to the supreme edict as the cause of their present inactivity."--Mure, vol. i. p 257. See however, Muller, "Greek Literature," ch. v. Section 6, and Grote, vol. ii. p. 252. 190 "As far removed from God and light of heaven, As from the centre thrice to th' utmost pole." --"Paradise Lost." "E quanto e da le stelle al basso inferno, Tanto e piu in su de la stellata spera"