Classic Poem

To Psaumis of C AMARINA , on his Victory in the Chariot Race.

STROPHE.

Great Jove! supreme immortal King!
Borne on the unwearied thunder's wing;
Again thy hours that roll along
Responsive to the varied song,
Awake my Lyre, and send me forth
A witness of heroic worth.
The Virtuous in a Friend's success rejoice,
And join the applauding Herald's chearful voice. —
O son of S ATURN ! who on Ã? TNA 's brow,
The woody load of T YPHON 's giant breast,
Holdest thy high abode; the Graces now
Invite thee to assist the Strain, address'd
To greet the Victor in the O LYMPIC strife;
Of every virtuous deed, the lustre, and the life.

ANTISTROPHE.

On his proud Car triumphant placed,
His brows with P ISA 's Olive graced,
L O P SAUMIS comes! the Shores around
Fair C AMARINA 's Praise resound;
For to his own illustrious name
The Patriot joins his Country's Fame.
O may the immortal Gods propitious hear
His future vows, and grant each pious prayer!
Well is he skill'd to train the generous Steed,
Fair Plenty crowns his hospitable gate,
With breast sincere he courts the placid meed
Of smiling Peace, best Guardian of the State.
No hues fallacious tinge my honest lay,
Experience to the world will every truth display.

EPODE.

This from the L EMNIAN Dames' disgrace
Freed C LYMENUS ' victorious son,
When, clad in brazen arms, the race
With active limbs the Hero won,
And, taking from H YPSIPYLE the Crown,
He thus the royal Maid address'd:
Behold the Man! nor great in speed alone!
My hand unvanquish'd undismay'd my breast.
These Silver Tresses, lo! are spread
Untimely, on a youthful Head;
For oft capricious Nature's Rage
Gives to the vigorous Brow, the hoary Tint of Age.