CHAPTER V
MELAMPUS’ SONG
Teucer returned from Tyre in a somber mood. He learned of Sychaeus’ death and the exodus of Elissa and her followers. He also learned of the dissolution of the ruling council and the autocratic style of the new king, Pygmalion.
Teucer was no longer the lean, muscular warrior from the Trojan Wars. He had grown stout with the advancing years. Still, there was something majestic and awe inspiring in his presence and bearing that intimidated the young king.
Pygmalion knew of the friendship between Melampus and Sychaeus and suspected the former may have had a hand in the disappearance of the temple treasury. He mentioned this matter to Teucer during their meeting, but Teucer’s terse denial of any knowledge terminated the discussion. Pygmalion did manage to exact an
