And we continued on until we reached
Antaeus, who, not reckoning his head,
stood out above the rock wall five full ells.
"O you, who lived within the famous valley
(where Scipio became the heir of glory
when Hannibal retreated with his men),
who took a thousand lions as your prey-
and had you been together with your brothers
in their high war, it seems some still believe
the sons of earth would have become the victors-
do set us down below, where the cold shuts in
Cocytus, and do not disdain their task.
Don't send us on to Tityus or Typhon;
this man can give you what is longed for here;
therefore bend down and do not curl your lip.
He still can bring you fame within the world,
for he's alive and still expects long life,
unless grace summon him before his time."
So said my master; and in haste Antaeus
stretched out his hands, whose massive grip had once
been felt by Hercules, and grasped my guide.