Homer.

Did not cease from the strife, which he had first threatened against Achilles.
But he addressed Talthybius and Eurybates,
Who were his heralds and diligent servants:
"Go to the tent of the son of Peleus, Achilles.
Take by the hand and bring away the fair-cheeked Briseis.
And if he does not give her, I myself shall come and take her
With more men, which will be even more painful for him."
So speaking, he sent them, and commanded a harsh word upon them.
They went, unwillingly, beside the shore of the barren sea,
And reached the tents and ships of the Myrmidons.
They found him sitting by his tent and his black ship;
And Achilles was not happy seeing them.
The two, terrified and standing in awe of the king,
Stayed, and did not speak to him, nor did they ask him anything.
But he knew in his own mind, and spoke:

"Greetings, heralds, messengers of Zeus and of men.
Come closer; you are not to blame, but Agamemnon,
Who sent you here for the sake of the girl Briseis.
But come, O heaven-born Patroclus, lead the girl out,
And give her to them to lead away; let them both be witnesses
Before the blessed gods, and before mortal men,
And before that pitiless king, if ever again
There is need of me to ward off shameful ruin
From the others; for he rages with destructive thoughts,
And he does not know how to foresee the future and the past,"