Then Penelope, having duly prepared herself, went with her maidens
to the upper chamber, and prayed aloud to Athene that she would
save her son. And the suitors heard her praying, and said, "Surely
the Queen prays, thinking of her marriage, nor knows that death is
near to her son."

Then she lay down to sleep, and while she slept Athene sent her a
dream in the likeness of her sister. And the vision stood over her
head and spake: "Sleepest thou, Penelope? The gods would not have
thee grieve, for thy son shall surely return."

And Penelope said: "How camest thou here, my sister? For thy
dwelling is far away. And how can I cease to weep when my husband
is lost? And now my son is gone, and I am sore afraid for him,
lest his enemies slay him."

But the vision answered: "Fear not at all; for there is a mighty
helper with him, even Athene, who hath bid me tell thee these
things."

Then Penelope said: "If thou art a goddess, tell me this. Is my
husband yet alive?"

But the vision answered, "That I cannot say, whether he be alive
or dead." And so saying, it vanished into air.

And Penelope woke from her sleep, and her heart was comforted.