Classic Poem

The Nemean lion and Arcadian boar,
In spite of Juno, gave the stars of yore
To great Alcides who laid Eryx low,
And forced the Libyan wrestler to bow
Before his might, and slew the woodland pest,
Cacus, of stolen kine by craft possessed.
And yet how small to-day his deeds appear.
Each morn we see more glorious conflicts here.
How many boars by Caesar now are slain
And beasts more fierce than that of Nemea's plain.
How soon would Geryon admit defeat
If he our famous champion should meet!
And how could Hydra with each head renewed
For all her fury face the Nile's fierce brood!
He by his valour swiftly rose to heaven:
To thee, great Emperor, may it late be given.