In Book Three, Nestor praises Telemachus for his bravery and for his potential as a hero a few times: first, after hearing what Telemachus's mission is, and second, after realizing that Athena herself had been taking care of Telemachus and guiding him on his journey.
His praise seems quite strong considering the two of them have just now met, and considering that Telemachus is much younger and has much less life experience than Nestor does.
Here's what Nestor says the first time in praise of Telemachus:
"You too, then—for you are a tall smart-looking fellow—show your mettle and make yourself a name in story."
He means that Telemachus seems like a capable, intelligent man, someone who's able to prove himself as having courage, vigor, and a strong sense of character. By telling Telemachus to "make [himself] a name in story," Nestor means that Telemachus should be able to perform the kind of brave, valiant acts that will go down in history.
The second time Nestor praises Telemachus, it's just a short while later, after the meal and just after Athena has revealed herself by changing into an eagle:
“My friend,” said he, “I see that you are going to be a great hero some day, since the gods wait upon you thus while you are still so young."
Nestor is saying here, again, that Telemachus has the potential to perform heroic, meaningful deeds.
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