506We sail on over the sea, close by the neighbouring Ceraunian cliffs, from where lies the way to Italy and the shortest passage over the waves. 508Meanwhile the sun sets and the mountains grow dark with shadow; 509we stretch ourselves on the lap of the longed-for land by the water, having drawn lots for the oars, and here and there on the dry shore we refresh our bodies; 511sleep floods our weary limbs. 512Not yet was Night, driven by the Hours, reaching the middle of her circuit: Palinurus, not idle, rises from his bed and examines all the winds and catches the breezes with his ears; 515he notes all the stars gliding in the silent sky, Arcturus and the rainy Hyades and the twin Bears, and looks round at Orion armed with gold.
518When he sees that all is settled in the clear sky, he gives a loud signal from the stern; 519we break camp, try the way, and spread the wings of our sails.