The Athenians hide in their homes because the rude Cretan soldiers arrive to parade through the streets and demand the yearly human tribute for King Minos.

In James Baldwin’s story “The Cruel Tribute,” spring returns and the black- sailed ship is prepared for another voyage to Crete. At this point, the Cretan soldiers march through Athens while the herald of King Minos announces that in three days the tribute of youths must be paid. This terrifying announcement leads people to slam their doors shut, stay inside, and sit silently wondering whose children will be chosen, which is what directly causes them to hide in their homes.