Classic Poem

To Hercules, great son of Jove, the song
I raise, the chief of earth's illustrious throng,
Whom, mid the groves on Thebes' delightful shore,
To Saturn's mighty son Alcmena bore.
O'er all the vast expanse of sea and land,
Wandering by Eurystheus' stern command.
Much acting, suffering much, he gain'd the meed
Of deathless fame by many a glorious deed.
Now given on high Olympus to reside,
He clasps the blooming Hebe as his bride,—
Hail, royal son of Jove, accept my lays;
With wealth and virtue crown thy suppliant's days.