Book IV. Riding in a chariot skilfully guided by one of Nestor’s sons, Telemachus next speeds on to Sparta, where he finds Menelaus celebrating the marriages of a daughter and son.  On learning that strangers have arrived, Menelaus orders every attention shown them, and only after they have been refreshed by food and drink, inquires their errand.  He states that he himself reached home only after wandering seven years, and adds that he often yearns to know what has become of Ulysses.  At this name Telemachus’ tears flow, and Helen, who has just appeared, is struck by his resemblance to his father.  When Telemachus admits his identity, Menelaus and Helen mingle their tears with his, for the memory of the past overwhelms them with sorrow.  Then to restore a more cheerful atmosphere, Helen casts “nepenthe” into the wine, thanks to which beneficent drug all soon forget their woes.  She next relates how Ulysses once entered Troy in the guise of a beggar, and how she alone recognized him in spite of his disguise.  This reminds Menelaus of the time when Ulysses restrained him and the other Greeks in the wooden horse, and when Helen marched around it mimicking the voices of their wives!

Soothed by “nepenthe,” all retire to rest, and when morning dawns Telemachus inquires whether Menelaus knows aught of his father.  All the information Menelaus vouchsafes is that when he surprised Proteus, counting sea-calves on the island of Pharos, he was told he would reach home only after making due sacrifices in Egypt to appease the gods, that his brother had been murdered on arriving at Mycenae, and that Ulysses—­sole survivor of his crew—­was detained by Calypso in an island, whence he had no means of escape.  The sea-god had further promised that Menelaus should never die, stating that, as husband of Helen and son-in-law of Jupiter, he would enjoy everlasting bliss in the Elysian Fields.  Then, after describing the sacrifices which insured his return to Sparta, Menelaus invites Telemachus to tarry with him, although the youth insists he must return home.

Meantime the suitors in Ulysses’ palace entertain themselves with games, in the midst of which they learn that Telemachus has gone.  Realizing that if he were dead Penelope’s fortunate suitor would become possessor of all Ulysses’ wealth, they decide to man a vessel to guard the port and slay Telemachus on his return.  This plot is overheard by a servant, who hastens to report it to Penelope.  On learning her son has ventured out to sea, she wrings her hands, and reviles the nurse who abetted his departure until this wise woman advises her rather to pray for her son’s safe return!  While Penelope is offering propitiatory sacrifices, the suitors despatch a vessel in Antinous’ charge to lie in wait for the youth.  But, during the sleep which overcomes Penelope after her prayers, she is favored by a vision, in which her sister assures her Telemachus will soon be restored to her arms, although she refuses to give her any information in regard to Ulysses.