Verse 26 — W. Leaf's commentary on Homer's Iliad 1 0

For κιχείω many would read κιχήω, but we have no right to neglect the consistent ancient rule by which in such forms ει is written before ω and ο, as it may represent a real difference of pronunciation (H. G. App. C). It is not necessary to supply any verb before μή, which is an independent prohibitive particle; the literal meaning is ‘Far be the thought that I shall find thee.’ H. G. § 278; Delbrück S. F. i. 22. Thus the constr. supplies the missing imperative for the 1st person (M. and T. § 257). The same explanation can be given in 28, though here the μή-clause is obviously far on its way to become subordinate. The progress of μὴ οὐ to complete subordination may be followed through 565, 10.39, 15.164, 24.569 (the only other cases in H. of μὴ οὐ with subj.) to the change of mood in 24.584 (M. and T. § 263).